Lynbrook/east rockaway
Alice Moreno/Herald
Celebrating the honorable Class of 2025
Lynbrook teachers and administrators honored high school seniors with final awards last Thursday. Story, more photos page 10.
Reworld turns village waste into energy
By AINSlEY MARTINEZ amartinez@liherald.com
Despite common misconceptions, the Village of Lynbrook manages its waste through a modern waste-to-energy facility that uses advanced thermal technology to reduce landfill use, generate electricity, recover recyclable materials and lower the environmental impact of trash disposal, said Village officials.
on average, two tons of carbon dioxide equivalent per ton of waste processed, according to the company.
This process helps offset some of the costs associated with waste management, Phil Healy, director of Public Works for the Village of Lynbrook, said.
S
Three paths, one purpose Lynbrook High alumnus, students look to the
By AINSlEY MARTINEZ amartinez@liherald.com
For Erick Diaz, Kate Santoli and Kevin Langbart, the journey to medicine began in the same hallways—those of Lynbrook High School.
A 2019 Lynbrook High School alumnus, Langbart recently graduated from the Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University. He will begin his general surgery residency there this July.
Reflecting on his high school years and the start of college, he said the rigor and mental demands of preparing for medical school were challenging, but ultimately, worth it.
Meanwhile, students Santoli and Diaz will begin their college journeys after graduating high school this June.
medical field
Diaz, Lynbrook’s 2025 salutatorian, will attend Johns Hopkins University this fall with his sights set on medical school, driven by the personal experience of watching his grandmother battle illness from afar.
“She doesn’t live in the U.S., so there were a lot of challenges with communication and care,” Diaz said. “That definitely inspired me. I want to be part of addressing disparities between countries when it comes to medical care.”
Valedictorian Kate Santoli will start classes at Washington University in Maryland and plans to major in cognitive neuroscience, a path cemented after a summer working in a psychology lab at Hofstra University.
“We were studying the impact of childhood trauma on mental health later in life,” Santoli
The Village of Lynbrook contracts with Reworld, a company that operates a thermal treatment facility designed to convert municipal solid waste into usable energy.
The term “incinerator” often evokes images of heavy pollution and smoke stacks, Lynbrook Mayor Alan Beach said, but he noted the facility in use today reflects modern environmental standards and sustainable practices.
ome people think recycling doesn’t matter because it’s all coming here anyways. That’s not what is happening
It costs $85 per ton for waste incineration, compared to $110 per ton for recycling because of the labor involved in hand-processing the materials. Lynbrook contributes less than 11,000 tons of waste annually to a regional total of approximately 560,000 tons, Beach said.
DAwN HARMoN Reworld’s Long Island market director
“A significant, as I understand it, byproduct of the burning of trash is the steam heat from the high temperature burn [which generates] steam powered turbines to produce electricity,” Beach said.
The energy is transferred into the electrical grid while recovered metals are sent for recycling. The process offsets,
The four Long Island facilities manage about 2 million tons of waste and recycle 60,000 tons of metal a year, according to Reworld data.
However, Dawn Harmon, Reworld’s Long Island market director, said a common misconception is that the facility recycles all items.
While the same trucks manage both waste and recycling for municipalities, they are not delivered to the same facilities.
“Some people think recycling doesn’t matter because it’s all coming here anyways,” Harmon said. “That’s not what
Lynbrook superintendent talks financial transparency award Joel Press
By AINSLEY MARTINEZ amartinez@liherald.com
The Lynbrook Public School District has received national recognition for its commitment to financial transparency and excellence. For the 2024 fiscal year, the district has been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association and the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Association of School Business Officials International. Joel Press, Lynbrook’s assistant superintendent for finance, operations and information systems, discussed the district’s commitment to financial transparency.
Herald: What is Lynbrook
School District’s philosophy when it comes to financial transparency? Is this the first time you’ve received these awards?
Press: It’s certainly not the first time we’ve won this award. This has been happening for more than 10 years. I’m only in my second year here, and this tradition started well before me. There are actually two awards we apply for—and have consistently received over the past several years. When you look at our financial report, it’s incredibly thorough. The amount of information we present is well above what’s required, and certainly more than most districts provide in my experience. That level of transparency and detail is exactly why these organizations recognize our work.
Herald: Do you have any specific examples of what sets your financial reporting apart?
Press: When I first reviewed Lynbrook’s financial reports— while considering coming to work here—I was struck by the first section of the report. It includes a letter from the superintendent that offers a wealth of knowledge about the district, its programs, and its approach to budgeting. Then, in the back section of the report, we provide extensive details about district operations—information on debt, capital projects, expenses, tax levy data, and more. It allows anyone who wants to understand the district’s finances in depth to do exactly that.
Herald: Is there anything else you’d like to share about the district’s commitment to transparency?
Press: One of the things that stood out to me before I even joined Lynbrook was how open everything is—from Board of Education meeting agendas and minutes to the financial reports themselves. Once I arrived, I saw that transparency is just ingrained in the culture here. There’s a real expectation that
we share as much as we can with the community. After all, it’s their school district. They should have access to all the information they need to make
informed decisions—especially when it comes time to vote on the annual budget. We truly believe in keeping the community involved and informed.
Courtesy Lynbrook School District
The staff of Lynbrook Public Schools’ business department has been awarded certificates of achievement for excellence in financial reporting from two nationally recognized institutions.
Students recognized for standout service
By KELSIE RADZISKI kradziski@liherald.com
Assemblywoman Judy Griffin honored a group of exceptional graduating seniors from schools across her district with the “Student Standout Awards,” recognizing their academic achievements, community service and leadership.
Two students from each of the high schools in Assembly District 21 were given certificates and recognition at the June 1 awards ceremony for their outstanding work and efforts throughout the year.
My Student Standout Awards recognize the hard work of students who go above and beyond, both in and out of school.
JuDy
GRIffIn
Assemblywoman
“My Student Standout Awards recognize the hard work of students who go above and beyond, both in and out of school,” Griffin said. “These students have excelled not only academically, but also in their personal lives contributing invaluable service and support to their communities.”
Lynbrook
A standout in theatre, Jack Ceglie splits his day between Lynbrook and the Long Island High School for the Arts. He has starred in numerous school and community productions, and he volunteers at elementary school programs and at the Professional Youth Theatre, where he is the program assistant.
He has attended prestigious theatre intensives and plays a major role in the school’s annual Classnight Competition, helping his peers write, direct and act in skits and performances.
Ceglie will be attending Norwalk Conservatory of the Arts.
An advocate and top academic performer, Cassandra Levinson volunteers with the New York Civil Liberties Union. She gave a speech at the State Assembly in support of anti-legacy college admissions legislation, and she participates in debate, peer tutoring, diversity initiatives and poetry events.
She is Editor-in-Chief of the school newspaper and spends her time volunteering with “New York City as a Classroom” at Rego Park Junior High School, where she helps lead museum trips for middle school students.
East Rockaway
Sophia Pappas is a part of the first cohort of students to volunteer at Camp Anchor, a program in Long Beach for kids and adults with special needs, and she helped revitalize East Rockaway High School’s connection with the camp, encouraging younger students to volunteer.
Her leadership has helped foster a culture of service in her school community, and she shows dedication in all projects she takes on. She will be going to SUNY Cortland.
Timothy Poland has served as Class President for three years and contributes to the school newspaper, varsity track and Unified Sports alongside Life Skills students.
He’s a member of the National Honor Society and a trusted voice on the Superintendent’s Advisory Council, where he works to bring the concerns of his peers to the school administration. He will be going to Hofstra University.
Malverne
Zain Raza, an AP Scholar, is known for his academic excellence and leadership. He has excelled in multiple Advanced Placement courses, including AP World History, AP U.S. History, and AP Language, and is currently enrolled in AP Government, AP Literature, and AP Psychology. A member of the National Honor Society and Tri-M Music Honor Society, he has consistently earned High Honor Roll status.
Outside the classroom, Raza is a three-year member of the undefeated Varsity Tennis team and has performed with the “Pride of Malverne” Marching Band and the Malverne Orchestra. He also works at his family’s deli, cares for his siblings and grandmother and actively participates in community events.
Raza will be attending Penn State University.
Nathaly Uribe, an AP Scholar with Distinction and AP Capstone Diploma candidate, is a high-achieving student with a passion for healthcare. She has completed rigorous coursework, includ-
ing Advanced Placement classes and Project Lead the Way programs in Biomedical Science.
Uribe serves as President of the World Language Club and Public Relations Manager for the Malverne Key Club. She also competes on the Girls’ Varsity Bowling and Softball teams.
A first-generation American, she is
the first in her family to attend college. Her volunteer work includes tutoring, translating for ENL students and participating in community cleanups and senior center visits, reflecting her dedication to service and leadership.
Uribe will be attending SUNY Albany, with a goal in mind to become a physician assistant or neonatal nurse.
Kelsie Radziski/Herald Photos
Assemblywoman Judy Griffin honored Cassandra Levinson, left, and Jack Ceglie from Lynbrook High School.
Timothy Poland, left, and Sophia Pappas from East Rockaway Junior-Senior High School by Assemblywoman Judy Griffin.
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Leaving Assets to Minors
Generally, parents leave their assets to the children thinking that the children will then take care of their children. Occasionally, parents want to bypass the children, either wholly or partially, and leave an inheritance directly to the grandchildren.
Inheritances to minors come in different varieties, such as bequests in wills and as beneficiaries or contingent beneficiaries on IRA’s, investment accounts, life insurance policies and annuities.
Although well-intentioned, inheritances to minors, without a trust, must go through a court proceeding on death. Minors, those under 18, cannot hold property in their names. In the proceeding, the judge appoints a legal guardian to protect the minor’s interest until age eighteen, at which time the beneficiary receives the asset. The expenses of the legal guardian will be paid out of the minor’s bequest. Generally, the legal guardian will use the funds for the child’s health, education, maintenance and support having regard to any other assets or resources of
the minor known to the guardian. Again, ready or not, the legal guardian must turn over the assets to the minor at age eighteen, a tender age in today’s world.
A better plan would be to leave assets to a minor beneficiary by creating a trust. You leave directions for the use of the funds, distribution at a stated age, such as thirty years old and, in the meantime, the trustee, a person you choose instead of a legal guardian chosen by the court, uses the money for the purposes enumerated above, either by giving money directly to the minor or by paying bills on their behalf.
Trusts avoid probate court proceedings entirely for the trust assets. You either put assets into the trust while you are living or, alternatively, you may name the minor’s trust as death beneficiary on bank accounts, investment accounts, IRA’s or the retirement plans, annuities and life insurance policies.
The intention to benefit minor beneficiaries must be attended to with thoughtful planning to avoid having the good deed punished.
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Three East Rockaway teachers awarded tenure
Three teachers in the East Rockaway School District were awarded tenure at the May 27 Board of Education meeting. The board recognized their instructional contributions and service to the school community.
Ann Kerner, an elementary teacher at Rhame Avenue School, began her career in the district as a student teacher. She later held several leave replacement positions before transitioning to a full-time role. Rhame Avenue Principal Jack Bixhorn noted her ability to create a welcoming classroom environment and her leadership in extracurricular activities, including Safety Patrol, Math Olympiads and the Rhame Talent Show.
Emily Brostowin, a special education teacher at East Rockaway Junior-Senior
High School, was recognized for her work across a range of math courses and her commitment to co-teaching. Principal Richard Schaffer highlighted her involvement in the yearbook, middle school athletics and school events, calling her a dependable and studentfocused educator.
Fernando Gomez, a world languages teacher at the junior-senior high school, received tenure for his contributions to the Spanish program. Schaffer cited his role in expanding offerings, including Spanish 5 and the New York State Seal of Biliteracy. Gomez also serves as student council advisor and provides support to students throughout the day.
— Ainsley Martinez
Photos courtesy of East Rockaway Union Free School District
Teacher Ann Kerner, center, with Rhame Avenue Principal Jack Bixhorn, left, and Superintendent James DeTommaso.
Teacher Fernando Gomez, center, with East Rockaway High School Principal Richard Schaffer and Superintendent James DeTommaso.
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Plainedge defeats East Rockaway for title
By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
For a second straight season, the Plainedge and East Rockaway girls’ flag football teams met with a Nassau County title on the line.
And it was Plainedge repeating last year’s championship accomplishment in rainy conditions May 28 as quarterback Gianna Ponticello and receiver Amanda Martone hooked up for a touchdown in each half and the defense stood tall to lead the Red Devils over the Rocks, 12-0, in the Conference C final at Bethpage High School.
“It feels really great,” Pnticello said. “We’ve been working hard all year because we know how tough it is to get this far. We know with how good our defense has been, we don’t have to put up a ton of points. Defense wins championships.”
Last spring, Plainedge topped East Rockaway 19-7 for the Conference II crown. The Red Devils (10-7-1) also took this year’s regular-season matchup April 4, 27-0 in another lights-out defensive performance.
Kate Franks (nine flag pulls), Sarah Abdul-Rassoul (eight) and Jennifer Larwood were relentless on defense throughout the
title game and Rebecca Reiter sealed the deal with an interception with East Rockaway driving with 1:25 remaining. The Rocks finished 7-9.
“We felt pretty confident coming in and the girls executed the game plan and I’m proud of them,” Plainedge head coach Adam Hovorka said. “East Rockaway’s built a nice program over there and we knew it wasn’t going to be easy to repeat. It helps when you have a quarterback who can sling it like Gianna.”
Ponticello shook off an early interception courtesy of the Rocks’ Ava Caradonna and some rain-assisted drops to get the offense on the board late in the first half. She zipped a long pass over the middle to fellow sophomore Martone, who took it the last 10 yards into the end zone for a 31-yard score to make it 6-0 with 2:00 left in the half.
“I wasn’t even sure I caught the ball at first,” Martone said.
East Rockaway’s defense stood up to the test up until the Ponticello-Martone magic gave Plainedge momentum it never relinquished. The duo struck again with 16:51 left to make it 12-0, with Martone catching a short toss before weaving in and out of a host of defenders en route to the end zone for
a 28-yard touchdown.
“We liked our chances at 12-0,” Hovorka said.
Ponticello (2,000-plus passing yards, 30 touchdowns), Charlotte Norbury (43 receptions, 786 yards, 10 touchdowns, Franks (800 yards rushing, 10 touchdowns) and Martone (40 catches, 500 yards) have led the Red Devils all spring. Ponticello (6) and Jen Larwood have also combined for 11 interceptions on defense.
East Rockaway, which defeated Cold Spring Harbor in the semifinals, 14-13, were led by running backs Rahcel Burch (544 yards, 3 touchdowns) and Caradonna (492 yards, 7 touchdowns), quarterback Danilynn Fardella and on defense Burch, Dayanara Jose Marino, Norah Rose and Isabella Colacino.
“We played tough,” Rocks head coach Fred Cange said. “I’m very proud of the program we’ve built here and we’re looking to recruit more girls for next season.”
Plainedge faces John Glenn for the L.I. Class C title.
“We’ve got a lot of young kids with seven freshmen and four sophomores starting, but our expectation was to get to this game and hopefully go one step further than last year,” Hovorka said.
East Rockaway’s Rachel Burch split a pair of Plainedge defenders during the Nassau Class C championship game.
Media Origin Inc./Herald
News briefs
Former E.R. chief elected Nassau County Fire Commission chairman
Joseph Mihalich, ex-chief of the East Rockaway Fire Department and chairman of the Fourth Battalion Fire District, was unanimously elected chairman of the Nassau County Fire Commission on May 14 at its annual meeting.
Mihalich is a 42-year member of the East Rockaway Fire Department. He served as chief from 2011 to 2012 and later became a delegate to the Fourth Battalion Fire District, which includes the East Rockaway, Lakeview, Lynbrook, Malverne and Rockville Centre fire departments.
For the past two years, Mihalich has chaired the Fourth Battalion and served on the Nassau County Fire Commission. He was vice chairman of the commission last year. He will serve a one-year term as chairman.
The Nassau County Fire Commission, established in 1938, includes nine battalions representing 71 volunteer fire departments across the county. The commission serves as an advisory body on fire protection needs, reviews variance requests to county fire ordinances, and oversees the hiring of fire marshals and communication technicians.
Mihalich was sworn in by Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman.
His family has a long history of service in the East Rockaway Fire Department. His father was an ex-chief and
Joseph Mihalich, ex-chief of the East Rockaway Fire Department and chairman of the Fourth Battalion Fire District, was unanimously elected chairman of the Nassau County Fire Commission on May 14 at its annual meeting.
55-year member, and his son is a lieutenant in Vigilant Engine Co. 1, where Mihalich is currently a member.
— Steve Grogan
Lynbrook F.D. honor veterans
On Memorial Day morning before the start of the annual village parade, the Lynbrook Fire Department membership, along with the Ladies Auxiliary and junior firefighters gathered at the Firefighters Memorial on Sunrise Highway to remember four Lynbrook volunteers killed in action during World War II.
Courtesy Steve Grogan
— Steve Grogan
Courtesy Brian Grogan
Chief Clayton Murphy, First Assistant James DiGiambattista, Second Assistant Peter Festa, and Third Assistant Phil Thacz, salute their memory.
Herald Senior Health & Beyond Expo expands 2025 Series with Massapequa debut
By Dana McDermott
Herald Community Media and RichnerLIVE successfully hosted the second event in the 2025 Senior Health & Beyond Expo series on May 22, at the Massapequa Elks Lodge #2162. Despite rainy and chilly weather, the free community event drew hundreds of attendees from across the region — including seniors, families, and care-givers — all eager to explore the latest in wellness, lifestyle enhancements, and essential health resources.
Held from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., the expo marked its debut in Massapequa with resounding success. Attendees engaged with over 35 educational vendors offering information on topics ranging from rehabilitation and home care to wellness programs and state services. Attendees had the opportunity to connect one-on-one with experts in various fields.
Informational booths offered resources on home rehabilitation, in-home care services, chronic disease management, wellness programs, state and local assistance, and more. Many participants took the time to explore all the booths, gathering literature, asking questions, and signing up for programs to help improve their quality of life.
“This was our very first Senior Health Expo in Massapequa, and the community’s enthusiasm far exceeded our expectations,” said Amy Amato, Executive Director of Corporate Relations and Events at RichnerLIVE. “We are proud to provide a platform where seniors and their loved ones can access vital information and engage with professionals who truly care about their well-being.”
The event wasn’t just educational—it was fun, too. A special comedy performance by Larry Izzo brought lighthearted entertainment to the morning, sparking laughter and community connection. His blend of humor and relatability added a personal touch that resonated with many in the crowd.
One of the highlights of the morning was a lively Q&A panel discussion featuring several distinguished speakers. Each panelist brought expertise from their respective fields, offering actionable tips and meaningful insights. Representatives from the Parker Jewish Institute for Healthcare and Rehabilitation discussed the differences between short- and long-term rehabilitation options, addressing common misconceptions and helping families better plan for care transitions. Mid-Island Audiology highlighted the crucial link between hearing loss and brain health, stressing the importance of early intervention and regular hearing evaluations. East Neck Nursing and Rehabilitation Center offered practical advice on fall prevention, a major concern for many seniors, including home safety modifications and physical therapy strategies. PSEG Long Island presented on advocacy, out-
reach, and education, sharing programs available to help seniors manage utility bills and understand energy usage. The New York State Department of Public Service – Long Island Office provided information on saving money and energy, as well as preparing homes for the warmer months ahead, including statesupported incentives and rebates.
Each presentation was followed by a Q&A session, giving audience members the opportunity to ask questions and receive tailored responses. These panels were especially popular, with attendees appreciating the chance to speak directly to experts in an accessible, conversational setting.
The event was made possible through
the support of several key sponsors and partners who share the goal of improving the lives of seniors. Event sponsors included AARP, CenterLight Healthcare PACE, East Neck Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, the New York State Department of Public Service, Parker Jewish Institute for Healthcare and Rehabilitation, and Silver Lining Homecare Agency, which also served as the event’s Gift Bag Sponsor. These partnerships reflect the collaborative spirit behind the Senior Health & Beyond Expo series, emphasizing the importance of bringing together public, private, and nonprofit organizations to better serve the aging population.
Following the success in Mass -
apequa, the next Senior Health & Beyond Expo is scheduled for Thursday, June 27, at Congregation Ohav Sholom in Merrick, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Like all events in the series, it will be free and open to the public, offering another opportunity for seniors and their loved ones to discover new services, engage with experts, and enjoy a morning of education, community, and connection.
To view a full gallery of photos from the Massapequa expo, visit RichnerLive.com. For a complete schedule of upcoming events in the 2025 Senior Health & Beyond Expo series, including locations and times, visit LiHerald.com.
The Massapequa Senior Expo attracted over 200 people to the May 22 event.
Tim Baker/Herald photos
Senior Expo attendees took part in stationary exercises led by emcee Mae Caime.
Nicole Hall and Diane Finocchio from PSEG Long Island.
Claire Masih and Angela Mistretta of Park Lane Jewelry By ClairMarie.
Pablo Rendon, Janette Lebron, and Carmen Quinones of Parker Jewish Institute Health Care and Rehabilitation.
Ryan Lynch from New York Cancer & Blood Specialists. Expo attendees had the opportunity to meet 35 vendors.
Carol Bottiglieri from TrueCare Adult Day Care Center.
Jackie Rothermel from Meltzer, Lippe, Goldstein, & Breitstone, LLP.
Alyssa Ednie, Christen L. Cassidy, and Rochelle L. Verron, Esq. from Verron Law Group.
Robert Perricone, Sherri M. Stoklasa, and Laura Williams from WellCare.
Stephanie Penza and Sheila O’Brien from SightMD.
James Senese, Marguerite L. Ryan, and Ed Ryan from Equitable Advisors.
AnneMarie Fragkoulis and Alexa Panariello of East Neck Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. Debbie D’Amato of Centerlight HealthCare PACE.
Patricia Barna from ClarCaptions.
Jill Wasser from the NYS Department of Public Service.
Manuel Martinez from Elegance At Home.
Mae Caime speaking at the Senior Health Expo in Massapequa.
Seniors celebrated with award ceremony
Lynbrook High School celebrated its 55th Annual Senior Awards Night on May 29, honoring the hard work, dedication and achievements of the graduating Class of 2025. With a total of 94 awards and scholarships presented, the ceremony reflected the strong support from families, educators, alumni, local organizations and community leaders.
The night included a wide array of honors, ranging from academic excellence and leadership to community service, perseverance, and career aspirations. Scholarships in memory of beloved educators, students, and community members underscored the deep-rooted traditions and values upheld by the Lynbrook community.
Highlights of the evening included the presentation of the Valedictorian and Salutatorian awards, scholarships sponsored by civic groups such as the Kiwanis Club, Elks Lodge and the Chamber of Commerce.
— Ainsley Martinez
With a total of 94 awards and scholarships presented, families, educators, alumni, local organizations and community leaders celebrated the Lynbrook seniors on May 29.
Alice Moreno/ Herald photos
Michael Argento-Serra, left, president of the Lynbrook Chamber of Commerce, presented Mila Sokolskiy, Coral Roditi and Jake Mylan with the Lynbrook Chamber of Commerce Merchants Award on May 29.
Justin Williams, left, is a recipient of the Bresnihan Family Scholarship in honor of Alicemarie and John Bresnihan. Jennifer Aboud, right, presented the award.
Salvatore A. Brescia, center, Assistant Principal at Lynbrook High School, presented Yahira Nanyanzi, left, and Aurore Baptiste as recipients of the Crissy Delakas Memorial Scholarship for Perseverance and Dedication.
Nine Lynbrook High School seniors won the Key Club Service Award for community involvement and volunteerism through the organization.
Facility provides alternative to landfills
is happening.”
Another common issue involves the improper disposal of lithium batteries and electronics, which pose fire risks, she said.
The facility uses heat detection systems, but remains primarily defensive due to the unpredictable nature of incoming waste.
Certain items, such as mattresses, bulk materials and tree debris, are prohibited from the facility, but Harmon said residents don’t realize or recognize the risk.
Energy recovery with environmental safeguards is included in state solid waste management legislative policy as an acceptable method of solid waste management, said John J. Salka, public information officer for New York State’s Department of Environmental Conservation.
He said New York state is developing an updated State Solid Waste Management Plan, working directly with municipalities and all New Yorkers to employ a circular economy that focuses on reusing, recycling and reducing environmental harm.
The Reworld facility serves as a regional solution for Long Island municipalities affected by the Long Island Landfill Law, which restricts landfill operations to protect the island’s sole-source aquifer.
According to Reworld’s data, the thermal process reduces waste volume by up to 90% and produces roughly 550 kilowatt-hours of electricity per ton.
The Environmental Protection Agency, European Commission and United Nations Environment Programme recognize thermal treatment as a greenhouse gas mitigation method, ranking it above landfilling, but below source reduction and recycling in terms of
the Village of Lynbrook contracts with reworld, a company that operates a thermal treatment facility designed to convert municipal solid waste into usable energy.
environmental preference.
According to the budget, the Village spends about $1.2 million on contracted services for waste disposal a year.
The village has explored alternative waste management technologies, such as more efficient methods for
collecting and disposing of trash, but these options have proven to be cost-prohibitive, Beach said.
“But maybe in the future the industry will develop cost effective methods of developing environmentally friendly ways of picking up and disposing of trash,” he said.
Ainsley Martinez/Herald
Rallying on L.I. for transgender rights
By MADISON GUSLER mgusler@liherald.com
More than 200 people gathered for Long Island’s largest rally in support of the transgender community at the Nassau County Legislative building in Mineola over the weekend to express support for the trans, nonbinary and intersex communities.
Organized by Huntington Station-based nonprofit Gender Equality New York, which advocates for the rights of transgender, gender non-binary and intersex New Yorkers, the event highlighted support for shield laws that protect both reproductive and gender-affirming health care being targeted by legislators across the country.
“We’re here to show courage in the face of hate and discrimination. We’re here to affirm our existence to those who would rather see us erased,” Juli GreyOwens, executive director of GENY, said. “We are here to stand firm and fight for our rights, our dignity and for our future.”
Transgender and non-binary communities in New York State were only recently granted civil rights protections with the passage of 2019’s Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act. This followed years of organizing from various transgender activists. But nationally, transgender rights have been under attack since Donald Trump’s first presidency.
“They’re targeting trans kids, criminalizing gender affirming care, and feeding the flames of hate to score political points,” said Chanel Lopez, deputy director of LGBTQ+ Affairs for Governor Kathy Hochul. “We are here to say ‘not in New York, not today, not ever.’” New York has pledged to be a safe haven to trans people.
A wave of recent anti-transgender legislation
Madison Gusler/Herald
Over 200 people gathered in Nassau County on Saturday to rally in support of transgender rights across Long Island and beyond.
passed by state legislatures around the country has prohibited access to medical care, limited trans adults from making decisions regarding their own bodies and criminalized trans people’s existence.
“There is strong consensus among the most prominent medical organizations that evidence-based, gender affirming care for transgender children is medically necessary and appropriate. It can even be life saving,” local pediatrician, Dr. Eve Meltzer-Krief, said. “Gender affirming firming care is health care. It is
mental health care, and far too often, it is suicide prevention care.”
“At a moment when the federal government and roughly half U.S. states are aligned in attacking access to abortion and gender affirming care, New York must take action to protect providers, patients, seekers, and supporters,” Arlo Fleischer, local organizer with the New York Civil Liberties Union, said.
She explained how several states are not only stopping care provided within their state, but are actively working to “prevent people from accessing care in other states by imposing civil and criminal penalties on those who treat them.”
In February, Trump signed an executive order seeking to prohibit transgender women and girls from participating in girls’ and women’s sports, similar to local legislation passed in June 2024 by Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman.
“We have seen across the state this slow rolling back of the protections that we have been able to achieve here in New York, and we must stand strong and united in solidarity with one another in order to fight back,” Kei Williams, executive director of New Pride Agenda, said.
While the Nassau County trans athlete ban has many issues, state laws protecting Long Island’s trans residents who partake in sports under their preferred identity also supersede it.
The ban has contributed to larger discrimination against those who don’t fit in under the label of man or woman.
“Nassau County has fallen prey to the propaganda that trans people are a problem. I’m here to tell you, we’re not going to stand for that,” Dolores Covrigaru, a Human Rights Campaign board member and a mom who raised her trans child in Nassau County, said.
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Saturday, June 7, 2025 at 10 a.m.
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News briefs
Mill Museum, located at 30 Woods Ave.
E.R. to host 55th annual
Huckleberry Frolic on Friday
The 55th annual Huckleberry Frolic will take place Friday, celebrating community spirit with a day of festivities at the historic Grist Mill Museum, located at 30 Woods Ave.
The event runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and features a lively parade down Main Street, live music, food vendors, a petting zoo, and family-friendly entertainment.
The Grist Mill, built in 1688 by Joseph Haviland, played a key role in establishing a shipping and trading hub in the
area. The Village of East Rockaway acquired and relocated the structure to Memorial Park in 1960. After being destroyed by arson in 1990, it was fully restored. Ongoing rehabilitation efforts, supported in part by funds from previous Frolics, have included a new roof and upgraded fire and security systems.
The event is hosted by the Historical Society of East Rockaway and Lynbrook.
— Ainsley Martinez
Tim Baker/Herald
Local leaders and golf enthusiasts will gather on Aug. 11 for the annual Mayor’s Golf Outing, an all-day fundraiser aimed at supporting the Lynbrook community. Friends, business owners,
Lynbrook Mayor’s Golf Outing set for Aug. 11
Local leaders and golf enthusiasts will gather on Aug. 11 for the annual Mayor’s Golf Outing, an all-day fundraiser aimed at supporting the Lynbrook community.
The event will take place at both Inwood Country Club and Seawane Club, offering participants a full day of
golf, networking, and community engagement. Golfers of all skill levels are welcome to join.
Registration and event details are available at Lynbrook.PerfectGolfEvent. com.
— Ainsley Martinez
Mike Smollins/herald
The 55th annual Huckleberry Frolic will take place Friday, celebrating community spirit with a day of festivities at the historic Grist
Debating casino zoning at Coliseum site
By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com
Residents, business leaders, and elected officials shared their thoughts on the proposed changes to the Nassau Coliseum and Mitchel Field sites during two public hearings before the Hempstead Town Board May. The proposed zoning change would create a Mitchel Field Integrated Resort District, and while the change would not guarantee a casino, it would allow for a casino resort or other tourism attractions to be built on the Uniondale site.
While the Las Vegas Sands corporation announced that it will not apply in June for one of three available downstate gaming licenses in New York last April, they are still responsible for the general upkeep and maintenance of the property, but cannot build or develop on it after the Nassau County Legislature approved a 42-year operational lease agreement with the company last August.
The Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum and the Marriott Hotel Property are currently zoned within the Mitchel Field Mixed-Use District. In the district, gaming facilities including bars, casinos, cocktail lounges, nightclubs, hotels, and other facilities under their control are not allowed, according to the town.
When the Sands announced they were pulling out in late April, County Executive Bruce Blakeman said the county would look into other projects. “In either event, there will be an exciting new development that will create jobs and positive economic activity,” he said previously. A potential new developer was not discussed during the public hearing.
Over 90 comments were submitted at the two May 27 sessions. The town reserved a decision until a future date.
Daniel Baker, an attorney from the Garden City law firm Greenberg Traurig, said the renovations would transform the area from “a sea of asphalt parking areas with an underutilized arena,” into a “mixed entertainment destination that fosters a sense of community and connectivity within its surroundings and draws people together.”
Pearl Jacobs, a Uniondale resident, a member of the Say No to the Casino Civic Association and president of
the Nostrand Gardens Civic Association, brought up several environmental concerns that she said would stem from high traffic at a casino, pointing to the high asthma rates in Uniondale, Roosevelt and Hempstead.
“Championing a casino proposal with its myriad of environmental burdens while chastising the FAA is the height of hypocrisy,” Jacobs said.
“Moving forward with a casino proposal would be detrimental to county resident’s quality of life and public health,” she noted in a later portion of her statement that she did not read due to time constraints. Jacobs also added that the proposal is “nothing other than environmental racism” due to its proximity towards and potential health impacts on disadvantaged communities.
Speakers in favor of the zoning changes pointed to economic growth, the potential of developing an underdeveloped area, as well as benefits for union and construction workers.
“It is a commitment to create jobs, develop business, and be part of the transformational project that will uplift this entire community in Nassau County,” said Rachel Lugo, a Hempstead resident, who additionally serves as division director of family support and vocational services for the EAC Network, a social service agency that assists and cares for people in need across Long Island and New York City.
Lugo added that the new employment opportunities would benefit the unemployed, working class, and people with disabilities among others. The town board ended the hearing with a unanimous vote to leave the hearing open for written comment until June 10 at 10:30 a.m.
Comments can be sent to Hempstead Town Hall, One Washington St., Hempstead, NY 11550.
Have an opinion on the zooming change. Send letter to jbessen@liherald.com.
Luke Feeney/Herald
Residents, business leaders and elected officials spoke on the proposed changes to the Nassau Coliseum and Mitchel Field sites during the first of two public hearings before the Hempstead Town Board on May 27.
STEPPING OUT
friends.
Chris Botti
Take a bite out
Digging for dinos
Explore a prehistoric world at Long Island Children’s Museum
By Danielle Schwab
Your family’s summer “travel” plans might want to include an adventure back millions of years when mighty dinosaurs ruled the Earth.
The museum welcomes visitors to get up close to models of dinosaur bones that demystify the enigmatic creatures and shed light on the reality of the past at it’s newest STEM-based exhibit, “Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed,” now in residence until Aug. 31.
“Dinosaurs are such a popular, fascinating thing for kids to explore,” says Ashley Niver, the museum’s director of education. “It’s exciting to be standing next to these replicas of dinosaurs, seeing the full-blown skeletons, because it gives them such a great sense of scale compared to their bodies.”
Six full skeletal bodies represent real-life “legends,” including a Triceratops, a Tyrannosaurus Rex, and a Velociraptor. Of course, there’s plenty of opportunity to view and touch, plus examine additional molds of skulls, arms, legs, eggs, footprints, and even a 6-foot-1-inch Apatosaurus femur. Also go deeper into the science and history of the prehistoric era through a timeline matching game and enjoy a dig box where everyone can use paleontology tools to unearth dinosaur bones.
• Now until Aug. 31
• $17 museum admission, $16 seniors 65 and older
• View the LICM events calendar at licm.org for additional information or call (516) 224-5800
• Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City
“Kids have a very close view of what these dinosaurs look like compared to one another, and their interesting bone structure. It’s a different perspective than they would get from just a book. They can touch all of these things,” Niver says.
A fascinating highlight is surely that enormous Apatosaurus femur. This gigantic animal weighed as much as five elephants and walked with a thunderous sound as the feet hit the ground, Niver explains.
Fossil replicas are made of fiberglass and foam, which allows a unique opportunity for kids to interact with dinos outside of glass displays. For Niver, this all goes hand-in-hand with the museum’s mission to make immersive learning accessible to families.
“To have something that would normally be hands-off is exciting for kids. Any kind of tactile component within our programs and exhibits enhances the whole experience,” she explains.
Visitors won’t just look at bones, they can also dig for
them! Kids can step into the role of a paleontologist by wearing paleontology gear as they take their curiosity to two “dig sites” and use paleontology tools to excavate for new skeletons — and then hide them for the next explorer to find.
As always, related programming enhances
As always, related programming enhances the exhibit experience.
Among the highlights, the museum’s theater team presents an original interactive performance, “Unbox-a-saurus.” Families can join Dr. Patricia Osiris and help coax a shy dinosaur out of its crate to meet new friends, for an additional fee.
Other activities include creating pterodactyl flyers and clay fossil impressions on select dates.
For those curious minds, paleontologist Michael D’Emic, PhD, brings his tools and artifacts to the museum on July 10. Feel free to ask questions about dinosaurs and their ancient world of D’Emic and the graduate students accompanying him.
can join Dr. Patricia Osiris and help coax a discovering new species — it is
“Studying dinosaurs is more than just naming and discovering new species — it is about learning how environments and species changed over time, which is more important than ever to understand in today’s changing world,” D’Emic wrote in an email.
Visitors of all ages will certainly have an engaging time with all things dinos.
“The range of dinosaur appeal is a multi-generational thing. Any dinosaur enthusiasts who are adults will be thrilled to get to share that with their kids,” Niver says.
Any dinosaur enthusiasts who are adults will be thrilled to get to
From their habitats to their bone structures, the world of dinosaurs sparks imagination and creative play through their larger-than-life legacy.
“They have their own personalities in many ways. There are ones that eat
“They have their own personalities in many ways. There are ones that eat meat and others that eat plants. Some are big and some are small. That’s what’s interesting and intriguing. This majestic-seeming creature no longer roams the Earth, but you knew it once did,” she adds.
And there’s no better place to start than at Long Island Children’s Museum.
“It’s local. You don’t have to go to the city to learn about dinosaurs and see fossil replicas up close, it’s right here in Garden City,” Niver continues, encouraging everyone to check out the museum’s latest offering, in collaboration with the Museum of Discovery, Little Rock, Ark.
The world’s top-selling jazz instrumentalist, Grammy-winning trumpeter Chris Botti has been one of the world’s most popular instrumentalists for nearly three decades. A trumpeter with a sumptuous, enveloping tone, fluent phrasing, and sense of space, Botti became a masterly musician equally at home in the realms of jazz and pop. He honed his craft performing and recording with stars like Frank Sinatra, Buddy Rich, Paul Simon, Joni Mitchell, Herbie Hancock, Yo-Yo Ma, and Sting, who featured him on his Brand New Day tour and who was one the stellar artists on Botti’s chart-topping 2009 album “Live in Boston.” In short, Chris Botti really needs no introduction. Yet with his Blue Note Records debut, he’s offering one anyway. Vol.1 is in many ways a fresh start for the trumpeter. Having successfully crossed over from jazz renown to pop stardom, Botti’s first album in more than a decade finds him crossing back, with a small group project focused on acoustic jazz and classic standards.
Friday, June 6, 8 p.m. $99.50, $89.50, $69.50, $64.50, $59.50, $39.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny. com.
Northwinds Symphonic Band
Sands Point Preserve’s reserve’s historic mansions and waterfront grounds are the majestic backdrop for a lively musical afternoon. Northwinds Symphonic Band returns with “Broadway, Movies, and Light Classics.” Immerse yourself in a feast for the senses. The concert (indoors) features a host of treasured music from the big screen to the stage.
Recreate a favorite creature or make the dino of your dreams using large-scale foam blocks.
Conductors Helen P. Bauer and Brandon Bromsey have designed an entertaining program of both instrumental and vocal selections. A special appearance by Broadway performer Karen Murphy and tenor Joe Stroppel with spotlight solos by Northwinds musicians are among the highlights. Consider bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy on the delightful grounds before the concert.
Sunday, June 8, 3 p.m. $10.
Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit sandspointpreserveconservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901.
Photos courtesy LICM
of science as you encounter some hulking behemoths.
Junior paleontologists can unearth fossils in two dig pits.
Roam among dinos and make some new
Your Neighborhood CALENDAR
JUNE
5
Oceanside High School 50th Reunion
Catch up with classmates and friends at Oceanside High School’s Class of 1975 50th Reunion at Knights of Columbus Hall on July 26. Reserve your spot now! Cost is $70 per person.
• Where: Knights of Columbus Hall, 2985 Kenneth Place, Oceanside
• Time: July 26, 6-11 p.m.
• Contact: Purchase tickets at oceanside-high-school-class-of1975-50th-reunion
‘Summer of Love’ Pet Adoption
The Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter welcomes summer with the return of its “Summer of Love” pet adoption program. Now through Sept. 1 all pet adoption fees will be waived, making it easier than ever to adopt a pet. Each adoption includes free spaying/neutering, vaccinations and microchipping. Additionally, there is only a $10 licensing fee for dogs. This summer, spread the love and provide a fur-ever home to these shelter animals. Check out the friendly faces of the dogs and cat before arriving at shelter. Browse photos and profiles at hempsteadny. gov/179/animal-shelter or on the shelter’s Facebook page.
• Where: 3320, Beltagh Ave., Wantagh
• Time: Ongoing
• Contact: at hempsteadny. gov/179/animal-shelter or (516) 785-5220
On Exhibit
Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, the original “Deco at 100” coincides with the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Paris International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts (Exposition internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes) that publicly launched the movement. The direct followup to the well-received 2023 exhibit, “Our Gilded Age,” it comparably links the period’s signature innovation in the decorative arts, Art Deco, to the fine arts. On view through June 15.
• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor
• Time: Ongoing
• Contact: (516) 484-9337 or nassaumuseum.org
‘Elephant & Piggie’s
We Are in a
Play!’
The beloved musical adventure, ripped from the pages of Mo Willems’ beloved award-winning, best-selling children’s books, is back on stage at Long Island Children’s Museum. Willems’ classic characters Elephant and Piggie storm the stage
JUNE 14
Voyage
all and return to Westbury House to claim a special gift.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: Ongoing all day, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
JUNE
8
Tunes with Oceanside Chorale
Join with the Oceanside Chorale for “Opera or Popera” The concert, at Fulton Avenue School in Oceanside, is sure to entertain. $10, under 12 free.
• Where: 3252 Fulton Ave., Oceanside.
• Time: 3 p.m.
• Contact: oceansidechorale.com or call Frank at (516) 764-2787 or email fxdefontes@hotmail.com
JUNE
Kiwanis Bicycle Challenge
• Time: 7 p.m.
“Don’t stop believin’… Voyage has returned with its rockin’ tribute to Journey. The popular band takes everyone back to the ‘80s when Journey’s timeless music ruled the airwaves. Hailed by fans and critics alike, the band performs the music with chilling accuracy. Voyage is celebrated for their uncanny ability to recreate the legendary sound, energy and passion of one of rock’s greatest bands. The attention to detail is unrivaled: blistering guitar solos, lush keyboard arrangements, electrifying stage presence, and stunning harmonies, has earned them a reputation as the ultimate homage to Journey’s timeless music. Fronted by vocalist Pedro Espada, whose range and tone is acclaimed as rivaling the iconic Steve Perry, he’s backed by a lineup of world-class musicians — Robby Hoffman, Greg Smith, Lance Millard, and Dana Spellman — who bring every note to life with precision and heart. Voyage doesn’t just perform Journey’s greatest hits — they transport audiences back to the height of arena rock glory. From the soaring ballads of “Faithfully” and “Open Arms” to the anthemic energy of “Don’t Stop Believin’” and “Separate Ways,” every performance is a journey through the soundtrack of a generation. $40, $35, $30, $25, $20.
in a rollicking musical romp filled with plenty of pachydermal peril and swiney suspense perfect for young audiences.
• Where: Museum Row, Garden City
• Time: Also June 8 and June 10-12, times vary
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
Westbury House Tour
For many years visitors to Westbury House at Old Westbury Gardens asked what was beyond the first floor corridor. Now go beyond the door and discover “secrets of the service wing,” during a 60-minute guided tour. Be introduced to the intensive labor required to create the lifestyle experienced by the Phipps family and their guests; tour the many rooms that were “behind the scenes” to create the formal dining experiences of early 20th century. Go along the corridors to the butler’s pantry and silver cleaning room then descend the 17 steps to the kitchen, scullery, and wine storage rooms located on the ground floor. Reservations required.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: Noon-1 p.m. and 3-4 p.m.; also June 9, June 11-12
• Contact: oldwestburygardens.org or call (516) 333-0048
Zumba
Gold with Lana & Nilo
Take part in Double Zumba Gold sessions, Fridays. No class on July 4. $45 adult, $35 ages 62+.
• Where: Lynbrook Recreation Center, 55 Wilbur St.
• Time: 9:30-10:30 a.m. (Lana), 10:45-1:45 a.m. (Nilo)
• Contact: Lynbrook.RecDesk.com
Cardio Sculpt
Participate in a fun and energizing workout class. No class on July 4. $38 ages 13-61, $34 ages 62+.
• Where: Lynbrook Recreation Center, 55 Wilbur St.
• Time: Ongoing Fridays, 9:15-10:05 a.m.
• Contact: Lynbrook.RecDesk.com
JUNE
AARP Defensive Driving
7
Improve driving skills and obtain insurance discounts, at the driver safety course presented by AARP, at East Rockaway Public Library. $25 AARP members, $30 non-members. Registration required.
• Where: 477 Atlantic Ave.
• Time: 10 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.
• Contact: eastrockawaylibrary.org
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
Huckleberry Frolic
The East Rockaway tradition returns for its 55th year. The Huckleberry Frolic celebrates the community with a lively parade down Main Street featuring live music, food vendors, a petting zoo, and family-friendly entertainment throughout the day at the Grist Mill Museum. Rain date is June 14.
• Where: 30 Woods Ave.
• Time: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Contact: villageofeastrockaway.org
Zumba with Nilo & Zumba
Participate in weekend Zumba sessions, with Gold Toning, to energize your mornings. No class on July 5. $45, $35 ages 62+.
• Where: Lynbrook Recreation Center, 55 Wilbur St.
• Time: Ongoing Saturdays, 8:309:30 a.m. Zumba; 9:45-10:45 a.m., Zumba Gold Toning
• Contact: Lynbrook.RecDesk.com
Garden Gallery Quest Scavenger Hunt
Visit Old Westbury Gardens for a day of artistic exploration. All ages are invited to stroll through the gardens in search of some of the most famous paintings hidden throughout the grounds. Find them
Ride in support of others. The Nassau Bicycle Challenge (formerly Nassau to Suffolk Bicycle Challenge) supports the work of the Kiwanis Club of North Shore Foundation. It supports charities such as Kiwanis Pediatric Trauma Center, Pediatric Lyme Disease Foundation, Kamp Kiwanis, NOSH, Boys and Girls Club and charities aligned with those of Kiwanis International “Serving the Children of the World”, including Kiwanis’ signature programs of Klothes 4 Kids, Koats 4 Kids and Kicks 4 Kids. The beautiful ride through the Gold Coast features picturesque vistas and water views. Choose from a 25 mile loop with 1,060 feet of vertical climb or the more challenging ride with an additional 10 mile loop, totalling 35 miles, with 1,600 feet of vertical climb. Routes are clearly marked and ride is equipped with a rest stop. Snacks and water provided. Sponsorships also available. Online registration ends June 24, but walkins are welcome. Online registration is $50, day of is $60.
• Where: Starting at Harry Tappen Beach, Sea Cliff
• Time: Staggered starts, rain or shine
• Contact: n2nbc.org
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.
Students turn passion into pathway for career
said. “That hands-on research really opened my eyes. It made me realize I wanted to study the brain and mental health in a deeper way.”
Principal Matthew Sarosy said Diaz and Santoli are two of eight students involved in the science research program and the school district praised their accomplishments.
“They represent the best of what Lynbrook has to offer,” Sarosy said. “We’re incredibly proud to see them carrying our values into the world of medicine.”
Both students credit Lynbrook’s science research and AP Chemistry programs with providing them not just academic rigor but also realworld skills.
Ywant to do for others.”
Langbart entered college as a premed student, but it wasn’t until his father passed away during his sophomore year that he fully committed to becoming a doctor.
“That loss gave me clarity,” he said. “It pushed me to go all in.”
Langbart was accepted into Stony Brook’s competitive three-year MD program, which provides a direct path into residency.
ou really need to make sure that this is your passion and your true calling.
“These programs are about more than just science,” said science teacher Chuck Vessalico. “They teach students how to do science—how to communicate, how to publish, how to work in the field. It prepares them for anything.”
Kevin Langbart
The impact of those programs is something Kevin Langbart knows well.
Langbart’s path was personal, he said. His father battled a rare mitochondrial disorder called NARP syndrome. Watching his father navigate multiorgan complications, Langbart learned firsthand the power of medicine.
“I helped my dad manage his illness every day,” he said. “But what really inspired me was the impact his doctors had, not just on his health, but his outlook. They gave him hope. That’s what I
He will stay on Long Island, where he also runs a tutoring business, often working with Lynbrook students.
On Thursday, he presented the Langbart Family Scholarship at the school’s annual awards night in memory of his father and grandfather.
“The scholarship goes to a student who’s shown resilience and perseverance,” Langbart said. “Those are the qualities I saw in both my dad and grandpa.”
Langbart said he advises Diaz and Santoli, and any student that wants to pursue medicine, to reflect on their motivations and remind themselves of the end-goal.
“You really need to make sure that this is your passion and your true calling,” Langbart said. “If it’s not, those long hours that you’re spending studying, in the hospital on your rotations and all the time and effort that you put into making this career possible, will become extremely dreadful and difficult.”
Lynbrook High School alumnus, recently graduated from the renaissance School of medicine at Stony Brook university. He will begin his general surgery residency there this July.
Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. L&L ASSOCIATES HOLDING CORP., Pltf. vs. SENECA J. VETRANO, NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER, Defts. Index #610074/2024. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered April 14, 2025, I will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on June 17, 2025 at 3:30 p.m. premises k/a Section 42, Block 235 Lot 32. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. The foreclosure sale will be held, “rain or shine.” PAUL MELI, Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY 11021. #102290 153522
LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU. THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWALTS, INC., ALTERNATIVE LOAN TRUST 2004-24CB, MORTGAGE PASS THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2004-24CB, Plaintiffagainst- CRISTA A. BELLEAU, MICHAEL D. BELLEAU; MARIA NUNEZ, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated August 26, 2024 and entered on September 5, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court “Rain or Shine” located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on July 1, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. premises situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Lynbrook, County of Nassau and State of New York; known and designated as SBL# 42-21203-5. Said premises known as 3 DOROTHY PLACE, LYNBROOK, NY 11563 Approximate amount of lien $418,018.83 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index Number 611569/2022. LINDA AGNEW, ESQ., Referee Pincus Law Group, PLLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 425 RXR Plaza, Uniondale, NY 11556 {* LYNBROOK N*} 153716 LEGAL NOTICE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF EAST ROCKAWAY PUBLIC NOTICE TO BIDDERS PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT sealed proposals will be received by the Incorporated Village of East Rockaway on Thursday, June 26, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. prevailing time at the Village Hall, 376 Atlantic Avenue, East Rockaway, New York at which time they will be publicly opened and read and the contract awarded as soon thereafter as practicable for:
The refurbishing existing playground equipment and install safety surface, fencing, sidewalk and other appurtenances and incidentals necessary for the satisfactory completion of the work.
The Contract Documents and Specifications can be examined at the Office of the Village Clerk at the Village Hall, 376 Atlantic Avenue, East Rockaway, New York on or after Thursday June 12, 2025 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. prevailing time, Monday through Friday, except on holidays. Contract Documents and Specifications, including bid proposal sheets, may be obtained upon written request to the Incorporated Village of East Rockaway. Each bid must be accompanied by a certified check, bank check or bid bond payable to the Incorporated Village of East Rockaway in the amount of five (5%) percent of the gross amount of the bid. All proposals and bonds must be upon forms furnished by the Village, and such documents submitted in any other form shall be subject to rejection.
The Village encourages vendor/suppliers that are certified as a Minority or Women Owned Business Enterprise to participate in our bidding process.
The Board of Trustees reserves the right to reject any and all proposals.
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
of the Incorporated Village of East Rockaway, New York. Theresa E. Gaffney Village Clerk-Treasurer 153967
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE
The Board of Education of the Lynbrook Union Free School District, Lynbrook, New York, hereby invites the submission of: SEALED BIDS Commission Vending Units - Rebid Mailing ServicesRebid Automatic Temperature Control, Mechanical and Controls Maintenance Bids will be received until 2 p.m.. on June 18, 2025, in the Office of the Board of Education, 111 Atlantic Avenue, Lynbrook, New York, at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened and read. Specifications and instructions to bidders may be obtained from Patricia Jung at 516-887-6563 or on the Lynbrook UFSD website at www.lynbrookschools. org/District/Bids.
The Board of Education reserves the right to reject any and all bids when it is in the best interest of the School District to do so.
Theresa Moran District Clerk Lynbrook Union Free School District 516-887-6558
Date of ad: June 5, 2025
Herald 153935
Alice Moreno/Herald Lynbrook High School valedictorian Kate Santoli and salutatorian erick diaz plan to attend medical school after their experiences in the school’s science research program.
Courtesy Kristy Leibowitz
Kevin Langbart, a 2019
LLYN1 0605
EMPLOYMENT
Help Wanted
Business Logistician. Gather and analyze performance data related to logistics; analyze expense by mode, vendor, lanes, and make suggestions; research and identify gov’t regulations; and prepare docs to comply with the gov’t regulation. At least
BA in Logistics, Bz Admin. or related, plus 1-yr of work exp. Sal. $67,018/yr. Send ltt/res to HR, Kiss Nail Products Inc. 25 Harbor Park Dr. Port Washington NY 11050
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
EDITOR/REPORTER
Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. 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
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
OUTSIDE SALES
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PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
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To add a family room, will we need another garage? Part 2.
Q. We want to add a family room at the back of our house. Even though we have over 50 feet to work with to the back property line, we are being told that our garage is a problem because it’s too close to the side property line, and when we attach the family room, we’ll need to get a zoning variance. If we take the garage down we have to put up another garage, because our building department requires us to have a garage. Why is this a problem, and how can we get around it? Our contractor said he could “take care of it,” that the garage shouldn’t be a problem, but so far that hasn’t happened, and we think we have to change our plans or not do the job.
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A. As I described last week, there’s a bigger picture than just the couple of issues you describe. State rules and regulation codes are intended to keep us all safe from fire, wind, floods and other hazardous conditions. The building code has overlapping fire- protection requirements. A structure built closer than 3 feet to a property line must have fire-rated materials, as an “assembly,” including wall or roof interior and exterior materials. I often get questions from contractors calling to ask why I showed fire-rated sheetrock on only the side walls and roofs of a garage facing a property line, with a specific fastening pattern and insulation, especially when the garage won’t be heated. They ask this because nobody requires them to know the building codes, even though most consumers are under the false impression that all contractors are well-versed in building codes. One such conversation, when a contractor called, led to 20 minutes of argument, because the contractor was repeating, “I’ve never had to do this, this is overkill, nobody does this, I’m not doing this…” I could only answer that it was required in the codes, and there wouldn’t have been a permit if the plans didn’t show this, and the owner needed to know if the construction wouldn’t pass inspection, leaving the owner with a possible violation and greater expense to fix incorrect work.
One of the reasons for this friction is because in the past, most garages were approved without these requirements. Regulations were not uniformly enforced, leaving contractors with the impression that these regulations were just for some but not for all. Although things may be changing, contractors, generally, aren’t held to a level of responsibility that would require them to sign documents for their work to show that they followed the law and that they are part of the safety process. In some departments, this is changing as building departments begin to recognize that everyone involved in a construction project, including the ones who construct, are part of the safety team. “Taking care of it” sounds illegal, with you, the owner left holding the bag. Good luck!
© 2025 Monte Leeper
Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
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opinions Enhanced automatic voter registration is needed
Democracy begins at the ballot box. But for far too many Long Islanders—especially working-class residents, naturalized immigrants, and communities of color—that access remains out of reach. According to the Institute for Responsive Government, which reviewed data from the analytics firm Catalist, more than 400,000 eligible but unregistered voters live in Nassau and Suffolk counties. This is a crisis of representation.
Long Islanders are working harder than ever to make ends meet, care for their families, and contribute to the future of their communities. Yet, when it comes to voting, the system still places unnecessary obstacles in the path of participation. Enhanced Automatic Voter Registration (EAVR) offers a simple, secure, and transformative solution. And Long Island stands to benefit significantly from this critical piece of legislation. Our current voter registration system is outdated, confusing, and inefficient. It
places the burden of registering entirely on individuals, many of whom are busy working multiple jobs, caring for children, or navigating bureaucratic systems in a second language. On Long Island and across New York State, this is particularly true for young people, lowincome residents, immigrants, and people of color.
An d when people vote, our government works better for everyone .
Enhanced Automatic Voter Registration offers a commonsense, modern solution to change this dynamic. By upgrading our current voter registration system, this legislation would register eligible voters automatically when they interact with government agencies, like the DMV or Medicaid, unless they choose to opt out. EAVR would streamline an unnecessarily complex process. Long Island residents wouldn’t have to deal with any more missed forms or waiting in line at confusing registration events, causing them to fall through the cracks.
Enhanced Automatic Voter Registration will not just make voting more accessible, it will make our elections more secure. Under EAVR, state agencies that automatically register voters must first verify their citizenship, resi-
dence, and eligibility to vote in New York. This document-based verification will prevent noncitizens from inadvertently registering to vote and ensure that voters who have moved recently are registered at the correct address. Expanding voter participation, while preventing paperwork errors with potentially serious consequences, is critical on Long Island, where immigrant households often include both citizens and noncitizens and high mobility results in frequent address changes.
Beyond the logistical benefits, Enhanced Automatic Voter Registration would restore power to many people historically locked out of the electoral process. In Nassau and Suffolk Counties, hundreds of thousands of our neighbors are unable to influence key decisions about housing affordability, school funding, public transportation, and environmental safety. When more of our neighbors are registered, more of our voices are heard, and our democracy becomes more representative and more responsive.
The numbers speak for themselves. In states that have adopted similar
enhanced registration systems, voter participation has surged. For example, since Colorado implemented Enhanced Automatic Voter Registration in 2020, the state saw an increase of more than half a million registered and active voters. That’s no coincidence. And when people vote, our government works better for everyone.
Long Island’s future depends on inclusive democracy. We cannot afford to leave nearly half a million potential voters on the sidelines. The Enhanced Automatic Voter Registration act would bring us one step closer to a system where voting is not a privilege of the few, but a right accessible to all who qualify.
We must act now to ensure our local, state, and national elections reflect the real diversity and strength of our communities. For our neighborhoods, our families, and our future, it’s time for New York to pass Enhanced Automatic Voter Registration and make it law. Let’s unlock the power of Long Island’s people—and build a democracy that is truly representative of us all.
Assemblymember Charles David Lavine represents the 13th Assembly District and serves as Chair of the Judiciary Committee and as a member of the Committees on Codes, Ethics and Guidance, Rules, and Insurance.
CHARLEs LAVinE
Empowering women to strengthen our communities
nassau County has seen enormous improvements during my time in office. Thanks to major investments in our police, fire services and infrastructure, we were named the safest county in America by U.S. News & World Report. We continued to improve public health, and were named one of the healthiest counties in the country by researchers at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin. We also distinguished ourselves from our in-state neighbors by being named the most desirable place to live in New York by Niche magazine. At the same time, my administration has worked tirelessly to put money into the pockets of Nassau County residents. When I came into office, I canceled a $150 million tax hike planned by the previous administration. Since taking office, I have not raised taxes by even a penny.
I am proud of all these accomplishments, and the work our local government does for every resident. However,
imy administration also offers tailored support to fit the needs of individual groups in our communities. For example, women in Nassau County can access many comprehensive services and tools that make them safer, healthier and more successful. They have access to more opportunities and resources than ever.
TFirst I want to talk about the success of our women entrepreneurs, who have taken a big step forward while I have been in office. Under the previous administration, there were 185 certified womenowned businesses in Nassau County. Since I have taken office, that number has increased to 317 — an increase of almost 72 percent.
he health and safety of our residents are always my top priority.
financial information. All these resources help women thrive in our county. Education is one of the main pillars of the center. The organization regularly offers programs throughout the county in public spaces that teach financial literacy, estate planning, leadership and other topics. For women juggling family duties with career and business aspirations, we also offer sessions focused on managing professional work while raising young children. These resources help bolster local businesses so all county residents can reap the benefits.
further support women who are fighting breast cancer. I am proud to have spearheaded the effort to create this invaluable resource when I was the presiding officer of the Nassau County Legislature. Under the stellar leadership of Executive Director Geri Barish, Hewlett House has provided a non-threatening, non-clinical, home-like environment to over 42,000 women, giving them a place to discuss treatments, therapies, financial options and many other topics.
The Nassau County Women’s Services Center for Women in Business & Leadership has helped drive this positive change by certifying new, womenowned businesses and providing education, tools and connections to the next generation of female business leaders. No matter where you are in your career, the Women’s Services Center can help you by setting up mentorship and networking opportunities, connecting you with community outreach programs, and providing important logistical and
The health and safety of our residents are always my top priority. While our amazing health care workers and institutions strive to keep all of us in good health, our county also offers specific health resources for women.
To support women fighting breast cancer, we are partnering with local hospitals to roll out a brand new mammography van that will use 3D, high-resolution mammography technology to increase breast cancer screenings by 40 percent. It will operate six days a week in our neighborhoods to bring lifesaving changes closer to our homes.
Nassau County also has an invaluable relationship with Hewlett House to
My administration’s support of women extends to those of all ages. One of the earliest and most important policies I enacted as county executive concerns fairness and safety in women’s and girls’ sports. In the first days of my administration, I signed a law proclaiming that boys play with boys and girls play with girls in Nassau County. Allowing biological males to compete in girls’ sports will never be fair. It compromises the privacy and safety of our female athletes, and I will not allow it to happen as long as I am in office.
While every resident is important in our county, I am especially proud of the opportunities and support that women enjoy in our communities. I intend to continue empowering them to achieve their greatest potential so we can continue living in the best county in the United States.
Bruce Blakeman is the county executive.
Texas to ban social media for kids: Yeehaw!
never thought I would say these words, but Texas is leading the way on protecting kids from social media abuse. You read that right. The Lone Star State is moving towards passing a bill that would shut down social media access to young children and teens. This is a win-win for children and for parents enlightened enough to see the proven dangers of too much media time, and then do something about it.
According to KSLA TV in Shreveport, “The Texas House of Representatives has passed a bill prohibiting people under age 18 from creating or using social media accounts … It aims to address the concern that social media has a negative impact on the mental health of young people. The bill was passed in a 116-25 vote with support from both sides of the aisle. “… Social media companies would be required to verify the age of their users. It would also allow parents to request that their child’s social media accounts be deleted, and companies would have to
remove the account within ten days.”
The bill is headed to the Texas Senate and could take effect on Sept. 1. Social media has long been associated with increased bullying among children, feelings of low self-esteem, and incidents of self-harm and increased depression. Yet, the kids can’t put down their phones. You don’t need me to tell you this if you’ve been in the company of teenagers recently.
As of 2025, 12 states have passed or are working on similar legislation, but the process is coming together slowly, and the kids are falling apart quickly.
Csent for social media are akin to age limits on drinking, driving, and smoking,” she said.
Cheng added, “No policy replaces the need for parents to have frank, open conversations with their kids on the inherent mental and physical risks involved … Informed kids become informed young adults who make better decisions.”
hildren don’t have the self-discipline to monitor their exposure to social media.
Danny Rivera, a New York City high school English teacher and father quoted on Investopedia, said, “Students are on social media so much — inside and outside the classroom — they end up losing track of basic needs like food and sleep. They routinely tell me that they choose ‘doomscrolling’ or working on a dance routine to post over getting rest on a school night.”
Susan Cheng, associate dean of public health at Tulane University, and with a teenager at home, told Investopedia that changes to kids’ access are common sense. “Guardrails around age of con-
New York State passed a squishy law that seems both difficult to understand and enforce. On websites like Facebook, X and TikTok, a complex set of algorithms helps create personalized feeds to keep users engaged on the platform for as long as possible. The State Legislature passed a bill last year that, according to a New York Times story, will disrupt the relationship between tech companies and young people by restricting the use of algorithms on minors’ social media feeds.
Many of these laws are complex and face endless challenges in court.
Maybe legislation is not the most effective, or only, way to lasso the social media giants. Our basic, common, core values compel us to do an intervention, at the family level, the state level, in the courts and schools. Unrestricted social
media is hurting our kids.
We need only look around to see the creepy fixation and attachment to phones pervasive in our culture. Adults have tools to self-regulate, but children are easy prey for financially motivated influencers and celebrities who are selling products and insecurity in equal measure. Visit a restaurant and see families eating together and apart with everyone on their own phone.
There are epidemics that kill and epidemics that diminish and pervert normal social development. Social media, especially too much too soon, is making our children, and especially our teenagers, less secure, more anxious and more vulnerable to companies who are using them for profit. Children don’t have the self-discipline necessary to monitor their exposure to social media. Kids I know have told me students use their phones in the classroom to check out social media, look up test answers, watch videos, or worse.
Kudos to Texas for moving ahead with big, bold legislation. New York must create child-protective laws that have teeth. It’s our job as citizens and our obligation as human beings to defend our children’s privacy and mental health.
Randi Kreiss. Randi
RAnDi KREiss
BRUCE BLAKEMAn
HERALD
Hurricane season is here — Prepare to be safe
as the calendar turns to June, the Atlantic hurricane season officially begins—and this year, forecasters are predicting an active one. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration projects an above-average number of storms, fueled by warm ocean temperatures and shifting climate patterns.
For many across Long Island that means more potential for destructive winds, flooding, and widespread power outages. Whether you live on the coast or in-land now is the time to prepare.
Every year, we’re reminded that hurricanes are among nature’s most powerful and unpredictable forces. Hurricane Sandy nearly 13 years ago offers sobering examples of what can happen when people are unprepared —or underestimate the threat.
Preparation isn’t just a matter of prudence; it’s a matter of survival.
First and foremost, build or update your emergency supply kit. It should include at least three days’ worth of food and water for each member of your household—one gallon of water per person, per day. Non-perishable foods such as canned goods, protein bars, peanut butter, and dried fruit are essentials. Don’t forget a manual can opener.
You’ll also need a flashlight with extra batteries, a portable phone charger (preferably solar or battery-powered), a first-aid kit, hygiene supplies, and copies
letters
Stop summer power shutoffs
To the Editor:
Summer is almost here, and with it will come deadly heat waves supercharged by the climate crisis.
Yet in 27 states, it’s perfectly legal for utility companies to shut off electricity on the hottest days of summer, leaving individuals and families without air conditioning in extreme temperatures and threatening their health and safety.
Shutting off power and preventing access to lifesaving air conditioning in the summer can have life-or-death consequences. We need to shine a spotlight on this critical issue and raise our voices to demand change.
This may not be Florida, Louisiana or Georgia, but it can still get plenty hot here in the summer.
Utility companies and local leaders everywhere must act to end utility shutoffs on the hottest days of summer. Save lives — stop the summer shutoffs.
of important documents stored in a waterproof container. Include any medications and special items for infants, the elderly or pets.
A battery-powered or hand-crank radio is crucial. But when the power goes out and cell service is spotty, local radio may be the only way to receive lifesaving information.
It’s also important to know your risk. Are you in a flood-prone zone? Is your home vulnerable to storm surge? Local emergency management offices and the Federal Emergency Management Agency websites provide hazard maps that can help you answer those questions. If you live in an evacuation zone, know your routes and have a plan for where you will go—whether it’s a public shelter, a hotel or a relative’s home inland. Secure your property. Trim trees and shrubs, clean gutters, and reinforce windows and doors. If advised to do so, board up windows with plywood. Move outdoor furniture and decorations indoors so they don’t become projectiles in high winds.
Don’t wait until the last minute to gather supplies. As storms approach, store shelves empty quickly, gas lines grow long, and traffic jams snarl evacuation routes. Acting early not only gives you peace of mind — it gives you options.
Perhaps the most vital part of hurricane preparedness is staying informed. Tune in regularly to trusted local news
sources, the National Hurricane Center, and the county’s emergency management office — NassauCountyny.gov. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and up-to-date information is key to making smart decisions.
Social media is helpful, but it’s also a breeding ground for misinformation. Always verify what you see with official sources. False rumors about evacuation orders or shelter availability can put lives at risk.
Sign up for emergency alerts on your phone. Many local governments offer text or email notifications for severe weather, road closures, and evacuation notices. Don’t ignore the warnings. When authorities urge you to evacuate, it’s not a suggestion — it’s a life-saving directive.
Disasters don’t discriminate. They affect young and old, rich and poor. But preparation can make a world of difference. Having a plan, gathering supplies, and staying informed can reduce injuries, save lives, and make recovery faster and less stressful.
This hurricane season, let’s not be caught off guard. The cost of inaction is simply too high. Talk to your family. Check in with neighbors, especially the elderly or those with disabilities. Preparedness is not just personal — it’s communal.
And by working together, we can save lives.
Democracy suffers with budgets written in the dark
this year’s state budget process was deeply flawed from the start. The $254 billion spending plan was passed more than five weeks late, marking the fourth consecutive year under Governor Hochul that the budget has blown past its April 1 deadline. To make matters worse, it was crafted entirely behind closed doors by leaders of a single political party, without appropriate input from the full legislature. Worse still, it was rushed through using “messages of necessity,” bypassing the required threeday review period and effectively shutting out transparency, public input, and meaningful oversight by elected representatives. One of the most egregious inclusions in the budget is the move by the State to seize control of Nassau University Medical Center. This is nothing short of a hostile takeover by the Governor, stripping away local control of Nassau County’s only safety net hospital. I’m deeply disappointed this budget silenced local voices and undermined our community’s ability to govern its own healthcare. While stabilizing its finances and expanding care in the community,
NUMC has turned a corner despite state agencies withholding funding. Albany’s suggestion that it can do better than NUMC’s current board—despite its mismanagement of SUNY Downstate and the botched Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program overhaul.
I have spoken out frequently regarding the legislature repeatedly tilting the scales of justice in favor of criminals at the expense of victims and public safety. Cases involving real harm to individuals and communities have been thrown out over minor technicalities due to changes to the discovery laws. While any improvements to the law are welcome, the modest changes included in this budget do little to support prosecutors in their work. It’s unacceptable that the legislative majorities continue to prioritize offenders instead of public safety for the rest of us.
of living adjustment for direct support professionals, which falls far short of the full 7.8 percent increase they deserve. These essential workers provide critical care and support every day yet continue to be underpaid and undervalued, putting the stability of the workforce, which our most vulnerable residents depend on, at serious risk.
t o make matters worse, it was crafted entirely behind closed doors.
This budget also failed to address the ongoing chaos surrounding CDPAP, including the deeply flawed transition and the state’s mishandling of fiscal intermediary redesignation—leaving patients and caretakers in limbo. Even my colleagues on the other side of the aisle acknowledged that this program is a mess and needs reform. Further, it only includes a modest 2.6 percent Cost
Letters
Protect first responders, don’t hinder newsgathering
To the Editor:
The Press Club of Long Island strongly opposes Nassau County’s newly enacted “First Responder Zone of Protection Act” for its potential to unlawfully restrict newsgathering — a fundamental right protected by the First Amendment.
The act empowers any first responder — including police officers, EMTs, firefighters, and others — to order someone to stay at least 15 feet away if they “reasonably believe” that person may pose a threat or interfere with their duties. Violating such a warning is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 or up to one year in jail.
Critically, the law does not define what constitutes a “reasonable” belief or what behavior may be considered a threat or interference. This gives first responders broad discretion, opening the door to subjective and inconsistent enforcement.
This law risks criminalizing the public’s right to occupy public spac-
es and observe or record public officials — including law enforcement — performing their duties. As the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled, the First Amendment protects the right to challenge and criticize police and to record their actions in public (City of Houston v. Hill, 1987). Without that right, public accountability suffers.
The 15-foot buffer is arbitrary and could easily be manipulated to block the public from witnessing important events, particularly if multiple overlapping zones are created at once. Importantly, existing laws already give police the authority to manage truly unsafe or obstructive behavior.
This act, rather than promoting safety, appears aimed at shielding law enforcement from public scrutiny. If such a law had been in place in Minneapolis in 2020, the world might never have seen the video of George Floyd’s death — and Derek Chauvin might not have been held accountable.
The New York Civil Liberties Union warned Nassau lawmakers that this law is overly broad, likely unconstitutional, and destined for legal challenge. Nonetheless, the leg-
Additionally, businesses across the suburbs are facing tight margins—and now, the MTA payroll tax will make it even harder for them to keep their doors open. Rather than instituting desperately needed reforms and accountability, Albany simply committed more funds to the MTA, while relying more heavily on Long Islanders and other suburban residents. Albany continues to treat Long Islanders like an ATM, forcing us to subsidize the MTA’s refusal to accept necessary reforms. They’ve chosen to squeeze our businesses and commuters even more with a tax hike that is unsustainable.
Although the budget misses the mark in most areas, the nearly 4,500 pages across 10 bills that comprise the State Budget do include several commendable measures for which I have advocated. The inclusion of universal school meals for students is a long-overdue step to ensure no student goes hungry
and will enable them to focus on their education. It also includes the longawaited payoff of the state’s unemployment insurance debt to the federal government for Covid-era borrowing, an obligation that originally was placed on the backs of employers through unemployment insurance fees rather than federal Covid aid. Further, the budget expanded eligibility for Gold Star Annuity payments to better support the families of veterans, including funding for clean water infrastructure, and established a childcare substitute worker pool program.
Amidst the chaos of this year’s budget, one provision stands out for its sheer absurdity. A hidden measure now allows New York taxpayer dollars to be used to pay for the criminal defense of elected officials accused of federal crimes, even if such crimes are unrelated to their official duties. This means taxpayers could be forced to fund the defense of someone accused of committing crimes like bank robbery or tax fraud. This appears to be intended to benefit one particular elected official, our attorney general, and is a flagrant misuse of taxpayer dollars.
This budget process was so flawed that it obscured its few merits, leaving even worthwhile provisions buried beneath layers of reckless spending and misplaced priorities.
Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick represents the 9th State Senate District.
islature passed it unanimously. Laws that hinder public oversight of police don’t enhance safety — they erode constitutional rights, undermine transparency, and damage trust in law enforcement.
DENISE CIVILETTI Vice president
Framework by Tim Baker
Aerial view of the Jones Beach Water Tower — famously known as “the pencil.” — Wantagh
PCLI
