The Massapequa Coast Little League held its opening day parade and ceremonies on Saturday with several thousand people marching and cheering the teams on. Watch for more little league news as the season unfolds.
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com
Voters in Massapequa and Plainedge will head to the polls May 19 to decide their library budgets alongside their school district votes. Meanwhile, residents in Amityville and Farmingdale cast their ballots earlier this month, approving their local library budgets and electing trustees on April 18.
Karen Klein was elected to a five-year seat on the Amityville Public Library board with 339 votes, and Equasia Yard-Jean won a one-year seat with 137 votes. They defeated Robert Brachman and Lauren Scanlon. The five-year seat was previously held by Eileen Taylor, who did not seek re-election, while Leslie Kretz stepped down from the one-year seat. “The level of community involvement spoke vol-
umes and personally I’m incredibly grateful and humbled by the overwhelming support I received.,” said Klein. “Having served on this board before, I expect to return with experience and a strong sense of our library’s history.”
Yard-Jean also thanked the community for their support. “I am absolutely thrilled and very grateful to the Amityville and East Massapequa community,” she said. “I am excited to work alongside the library director and the other members of the board.”
The proposed budget, which drew criticism in the weeks leading up to the vote—largely on social media—was approved by 62.8 percent of voters. The library proposed a tax levy of $3.77 million, an increase from the current budget of $3.59 million — a
By MIKE POLANSKY Senior Correspondent
The Oyster Bay Town Board on April 14 unanimously approved a settlement resolving longstanding lawsuits brought by the federal government and New York State alleging discrimination in the Town’s housing programs.
The lawsuits — filed in 2014 by the federal government and in 2015 by the New York State Division of Human Rights — alleged that the Town intentionally discriminated against African American applicants by giving Town residents and their children priority for housing under the Next Generation Program for first-time homebuyers and the Golden Age Program for seniors.
Under the settlement, the Town’s policy was found to be illegal and it will stop giving preference to residents and their relatives when selecting buyers for homes developed through the Next Generation Program. Town officials must also designate certain employees to attend fair housing education and training sessions for three years, according to Town documents. Despite the ruling, the Town was not found financially liable.
To date, two Next Generation developments — the Seasons at Massapequa and the Seasons at Plainview — total -
ing six housing units, have been built in the Town.
As part of the agreement, the government will discontinue all claims related to the Golden Age Program, with prejudice, preventing the case from being brought again.
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino said he was satisfied with the outcome.
“This marks an important milestone, bringing closure to a decades-old lawsuit that predates my administration while safeguarding our commitment to ensuring seniors can continue to live in our community” he said.
While he wouldn’t comment on the merits of the settlement, Brian S. Sokoloff of Sokoloff Stern LLP, the firm that represented the Town in the case observed that “it would have been good if the case had never been brought by the government.”
• Appointed Michael Spinelli II, of Massapequa, to the Planning Advisory Board for a term from April 15, 2026, through Dec. 31, 2030. Spinelli holds a master’s degree in architecture from Catholic University and works at Cashin, Spinelli & Ferretti, a nationwide surety, construction and consulting firm. His work inCONTINUED ON PAGE 7
Work is continuing on the American Legion Post 1066 in Massapequa, with efforts underway to reopen the building as soon as possible. An exact timeline has not yet been determined, but members are coordinating with contractors to complete the renovations.
During the shutdown, members are encouraged to monitor the 405 phone messages sent by the commander for updates, including meeting dates and times. Meetings are currently being held at the Marine Corps League of Massapequa, 99 New York Ave. For more information, call (516) 7989369.
Officials thanked the post’s volunteer members for their continued efforts, especially Joe Canova, who has dedicated many hours to coordinating the renovations.
Officials also highlighted recent changes to the state’s driver point system. The time that points remain on a license has increased from 18 to 24 months, and violations such as speeding, cell phone use, reckless driving, broken taillights and illegal U-turns may carry higher point penalties. Accumulating 10 points within 24 months can result in a license suspension.
Veterans who receive a summons are encouraged to contact the Nassau County Veterans Service Agency at (516) 572-6512
or the Town of Oyster Bay Veterans Service Agency at (516) 797-6921 for assistance. These changes took effect in February 2026.
A new law affecting veterans who are 100 percent disabled, as determined by the Department of Veterans Affairs, has also been adopted by the Town of Oyster Bay. The town board voted unanimously to implement the measure that provides property assessment reductions; other municipalities and school districts have opted in as well.
Officials thanked local governments and school districts for supporting veterans through the measure.
The VA has also encouraged veterans to apply for compensation, pension benefits and medical treatment if they have not already done so. Officials said wait times for applications have been reduced. Veterans can call the VA hotline at (800) 827-1000 for more information.
Work on the VA hospital parking lot is ongoing, and officials said it is expected to be completed soon as warmer weather arrives.
Ie writer is a member of American Legion Post 1066 in Massapequa and an employee of the Town of Oyster Bay Veterans Service Agency, as well as a member of the Nassau County Veterans Service Agency.
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Massapequa Village Mayor Danny Pearl announced a partnership with Drug Free Long Island and the Nassau County Police Department (NCPD) to host a ‘Shed the Meds’ Drug Take Back Day at Massapequa Park Village Hall on Saturday, May 2, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“This Drug Take Back Day is a great opportunity to rid your medicine cabinet of old and unwanted prescription drugs,” said Supervisor Saladino. “Through proper disposal of old medications, we can prevent them from contaminating the environment through improper disposal and also keep them out of the wrong hands and away from young people.”
In cooperation with Drug Free Long Island and the Nassau County Police Department, the Town and Village will host this event at Massapequa Park
Village Hall, in the back parking lot. This program is anonymous. For those who cannot attend this Drug Take Back Day, disposal containers are located at all Police Precincts throughout the county for safe deposit.
For those looking to turn in unused or expired medication, be sure to make sure of the following:
• If left in original container, please remove all personal information from label.
• Liquid medication will not be accepted
• Illicit substances are also not part of this initiative.
• Intra-venous solutions, injectables, and syringes will be accepted.
For more information about the ‘Shed the Meds’ Drug Take Back Day, please call Drug Free Long Island at (516) 639-2386 or email info@drugfreeli. org
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherld.com
The days may be getting longer and temperatures warmer, but Long Island municipalities are still reckoning with the financial fallout from this winter’s snow removal and road maintenance costs—expenses that, in many cases, have far exceeded budget projections.
Across Nassau and Suffolk counties, public works departments report that repeated freeze-thaw cycles and multiple storms significantly increased both operating costs and infrastructure damage.
In Massapequa Park, officials estimate snow removal costs more than doubled, rising from about $95,000 last year to $230,000 this year. Pothole repair costs also ticked upward, from $8,300 to more than $10,000.
At the Town of Oyster Bay, officials said snow removal costs climbed from $1.249 million last year to more than $2.35 million this year.
In Suffolk, Babylon Town reported a 113% increase, with costs rising from $581,000 to a projected $1.42 million.
Amityville Village saw even sharper jumps: snow-related costs totaled $30,434 in
2023–24, then rose to $38,000 the following year before surging to approximately $128,000 this winter. Overtime alone jumped from $29,300 to $111,402.
In Babylon Village, snow-related spending increased from $38,000 in 2023–24 to $49,852 in 2024–25, with an estimated $170,000 expected this year, not including roughly $2,700 in asphalt for pothole repairs.
Officials say snow removal remains one of the costliest seasonal obligations for municipalities, driven by labor, overtime, salt and brine, fuel, and equipment wear. Rapidly occurring storms and freeze-thaw conditions further strain resources, often forcing emergency purchases and reallocations from other infrastructure accounts.
Meanwhile with winter behind them, officials say the focus now turns to repairing roadways and absorbing the lingering costs of a season that continues to stretch municipal budgets.
In Suffolk County officials are asking for the public’s help in reporting serious road conditions by having them call Suffolk 311 where dispatchers are available during the day to connect them to county services and intake road maintenance requests. They can also go online to: suffolk.my.site.com/
public/s/
“In minutes, callers can complete a request and alert DPW of potholes, road defects, tree maintenance and more,” said S.C. Exec. Ed Romaine. “Suffolk County DPW estimates a five-day response time from the moment of submission.”
In Nassau County, residents can call the Nassau County Department of Public Works at 516 571-6900 or go online to https:// www.nassaucountyny.gov/3449/ Department-Overview
Massapequa High School juniors and seniors experienced the dangers of distracted and impaired driving, without putting themselves or others in danger, during an impactful program on April 1.
The Save a Life Tour once again came to the school, hosted by the Junior/Senior PTSA. Two simulators were set up in the gymnasium. Students experienced impaired driving at one by wearing virtual reality goggles that blurred their view. The machine also didn’t immediately respond when students turned the wheel or pushed a pedal, to simulate delayed reaction time. At the distracted driving machine, each participant was handed a cell phone and had to actively respond to messages while driving.
Before going on the machines, students heard from Save a Life Tour manager Ben Middleton, who shared real stories of people who were injured or killed from distracted, drowsy or drunk driving. When they were done, juniors and seniors were then asked to sign their names to a safe driving pledge.
Senior Grace Hoffman used the impaired driving simulator and said it was very difficult to control the car.
“It’s a good experience because we’re all getting cars and our licenses now,” Grace said, “and it’s an important thing to learn not to drink and drive.”
Cindi St. George, main campus vice president of the PTSA, said the organization brings the Save a Life Tour to the school each year to educate young drivers on the consequences of distracted or
impaired driving.
“It’s important for students to be aware of the true dangers of texting and driving and drinking and driving,” she said. “This hands-on program allows the students to feel the true effects through high-tech simulators and virtual reality experiences. We hope the students gained a powerful understanding of why they should avoid both impaired and distracted driving. It’s simple; don’t drink and drive and put the phone away.”
Three women were arrested in Massapequa on April 10 following an undercover investigation into alleged prostitution at a Jerusalem Avenue location, Nassau County police said.
According to the Police Department’s Narcotics/Vice Squad, detectives conducted an investigation at 150 Jerusalem Ave., where they determined that prostitution was taking place. Xiaomei Ye, 46, of Whitestone; Danping Yu, 62, of Amityville; and Yan Hua Lin, 45, of Flushing, were taken into custody with-
out incident at about 4:55 p.m., police said.
Yu was charged with fourth-degree promoting prostitution and unauthorized practice of a profession and was scheduled to be arraigned April 11 at First District Court in Hempstead. Ye and Lin were each charged with prostitution and unauthorized practice of a profession. Both were issued desk appearance tickets and are due to appear in First District Court on April 23, police said.
1
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The following incidents have been reported by the Nassau County Police Department’s 7th and 8th Precincts and other law enforcement and emergency service units:
Farmingdale: Representatives of the Daleview Care Center, 530 Fulton St., reported the theft of $250 from the facility. The cash was reported missing between 3 p.m. March 31 and noon April 9.
•Nassau Police arrested Miguel Rodriguez, 48, of Farmingdale and charged him with shoplifting in connection with incidents at two locations, including Stop & Shop, 55 Motor Ave., South Farmingdale, and a housing complex at Secatogue Avenue and Wall Street on
April 13 and April 15, respectively.
Massapequa: Someone spray-painted walls and doors at the vacated Macy’s building in the Massapequa Mall, 400 Sunrise Mall, on April 9.
Massapequa: Nassau County Police arrested Daniel Chub Cuc, 22, of West Hempstead and charged him with driving while intoxicated/impaired on April 11. The arrest occurred at Hicksville Road and Sunrise Highway at approximately 2:45 p.m.
On April 12, Nassau Police arrested Thomas Bennett, 52, of North Massapequa, charging him with driving while intoxicated/impaired.
People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation has announced the return of its annual Summer Run Series, an eight-race program scheduled to take place Monday evenings from June 8 through August 10, 2026.
Participation will be capped at 4,000 runners, and advance registration is required through elitefeats. com/26srs.
Registration is divided into two tiers. Tier 1 includes all eight races and is limited to 2,500 runners at a cost of $100 per registrant. Online registration is now open.
Tier 2 and wheelchair-accessible registration is limited to 1,500 runners at a cost of $75 per registrant. Tier 2 participants will compete in four designated events: the Heckscher 5-mile (June 8), Sunken Meadow 10K (June 15), Heckscher 5K (August 3), and Jones Beach 5-mile (August 10). Wheelchair-accessible athletes will also participate in four races, including Heckscher 5-mile (June 8), Caumsett 5K (July 13), Heckscher 5K (August 3), and Jones Beach 5-mile (August 10). Registration for Tier 2 is now open on a first-
com, first-served basis.
All races will be held on Monday nights at 7 p.m. at various Long Island State Parks, beginning June 8 at Heckscher State Park with a 5-mile race. The series continues June 15 at Sunken Meadow (10K), June 22 at Belmont Lake (5K), July 13 at Caumsett State Park (5K), July 20 at Robert Moses (1-mile beach run), July 27 at Hempstead Lake (5K), August 3 at Heckscher (5K), and concludes August 10 at Jones Beach (5-mile).
The Summer Run Series is sponsored by the Natural Heritage Trust, Foundation for Long Island State Parks, 106.1 WBLI, 102.3 WBAB, Runners Edge, FourLeaf Federal Credit Union, Boening Brothers, Performax Physical Therapy and Wellness, New York Cancer & Blood Specialists, Newsday, and WildPlay Elements Park at Jones Beach.
Officials said proceeds from the series will support future New York State Parks programming.
For additional information, contact the Regional Recreation Department at 631-321-3510.
Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, in partnership with Legislator Chad Lennon, the Long Island Ducks and the Suffolk County Veterans Service Agency, has announced the return of the “Heroes of the Game” program for the 2026 baseball season.
The initiative will recognize local veterans and active-duty service members during Long Island Ducks home games at Fairfield Properties Ballpark. Up to two honorees will be selected per game and recognized with an ingame tribute. Each selected individual will also receive 10 complimentary tickets for family and friends.
The program is part of Suffolk
County’s broader Suffolk 250 initiative, commemorating the nation’s semiquincentennial. Officials say the effort will highlight regional history while honoring more than 100 veterans throughout the season.
Since its launch in 2015, the program has honored approximately 1,000 local veterans and military personnel. Suffolk County is home to nearly 100,000 veterans, the largest veteran population in New York State.
Veterans and active-duty personnel interested in being recognized can register online at suffolkcountyny.gov/heroes, email HeroesGame@suffolkcountyny. gov, or call 631-853-VETS.
ALREADY A TWO-TIME All-Conference selection, Webster appears well on her way to at least a third if not an All-County season. Heading into this week’s action, the Rocks’ fourth-year starting shortstop leads Nassau County in home runs with 6 and RBIs with 28 while batting .700 through nine games. Webster blasted a pair of homers against Baldwin on March 21 and repeated the accomplishment April 11 versus Freeport.
Thursday, April 23
Flag Football: Oceanside at East Rockaway 5 p.m.
Flag Football: Bell-Merrick at Massapequa 5:30 p.m.
Friday, April 24
Softball: Clarke at Farmingdale 5 p.m.
Softball: Malverne at Uniondale 5 p.m.
Softball: North Shore at South Side 5 p.m.
Baseball:Calhoun at Long Beach 5 p.m.
Baseball: Elmont at Kennedy 5 p.m.
Boys Tennis: South Side at Hewlett 5 p.m.
Flag Football: East Meadow at Freeport 5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Carey at Kennedy 5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: West Hempstead at Clarke 5 p.m.
Saturday, April 25
Softball: Wantagh at Oceanside 10 a.m.
Softball: Hicksville at Long Beach 10 a.m.
Softball: West Hempstead at Lawrence 10 a.m.
Softball: Lynbrook at Freeport 10 a.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Herricks at Baldwin 11 a.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Roslyn at Long Beach 1 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: East Meadow at Oceanside 1 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Freeport at V.S. District 1 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: North Shore at Seaford 3 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Lynbrook vs Hewlett 6:30 p.m.
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a spring sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
As if a rematch of last year’s Nassau Class C boys lacrosse playoff quarterfinal wasn’t enough to fire up Plainedge, a frustrating loss to Bethpage leading into last Friday’s trip to Lynbrook made for a defining moment at the season’s midway mark.
And the Red Devils delivered, getting hat tricks from Andrew Picardi and Dom Agovino, and some lockdown defense from Lucas Rizzo, Mateo Pallone and Mason Centonze on the way to a 10-6 victory over the Owls at Marion Street Elementary School. Brandon Scala had a fourth-quarter hat trick and junior goaltender Ethan Lunati made 14 saves for Lynbrook.
“We weren’t happy at all after the Bethpage game,” said Picardi, a senior who opened and closed the scoring in the bounce-back win as Plainedge evened its record at 4-4. “That loss beat us up a little bit as far as team morale, but we had no time to worry about it and knew we had to get right back to work today and get back on track,” he added.
The Red Devils, who knocked the Owls out of last year’s playoffs in a 12-11 thriller with Picardi netting the winning goal, never trailed in Friday’s rematch and scored six straight after Lynbrook’s Liam Gallagher’s goal midway through the second quarter tied it at 3.
“It was a tough game and you could see how bad both teams wanted it,” Plainedge coach Dan Achatz said. “Bottom line is we needed it from a confidence perspective. I think our guys were nervous knowing we just lost a game we’d all like to have back and going on the road against a good Lynbrook team would be another big test.”
The youthful Owls (4-4) were coming off a victory over Floral Park that snapped a three-game slide.
“We’ve got a really young team that’s working and improving every day,” Lynbrook coach Bill Luzzi said. “Today they were up to the task. We’re not disap -
pointed in the effort. Plainedge is a strong team. Ethan made some huge saves to keep us hanging around. We were in good spirits at halftime and tried to make some adjustments, but we didn’t get too many possessions in the second half.”
The Red Devils forced two shot-clock violations in the opening quarter and led 2-0 before Kaden Rogers got Lynbrook on the board. Rogers, along with fellow senior captains Scala and Tyler Berke are the Owls’ leaders, Luzzi noted. Plainedge answered Rogers’ tally just eight seconds later when Johnny Cynar
won the ensuing faceoff and raced the length of the field and scored for a 3-1 lead.
Casey Auer’s first of two goals put the visitors ahead for good with 2:56 remaining in the first half. Agovino’s second goal made it 5-3 at halftime, and he opened the scoring in a third quarter that saw the Owls fail to score. Brady Kelley also scored for Plainedge and junior goalie Jameson Smeltz had 8 saves.
“Our numbers are limited this year, but our kids are up to the challenge,” Achatz said.
Resident Jennifer Kennedy is checked in at the Amityville library voter registration table where she cast her ballot saying it is important to vote.
4.9 percent increase.
A total of 308 residents supported the measure, while 182 opposed it.
Library Director Todd Schlitt also pointed to the vote as a sign of confidence from the community. “While the budget vote was a big part of the large turnout, since more of you voted in favor of it than against it, I am encouraged by this vote of confidence for our library’s future,” he said.
Much of the opposition centered on an estimated $40 annual increase for the average household, as well as delays in an ongoing construction project. Work was temporarily halted after elevated levels of zinc were discovered in groundwater during the installation of a new elevator, prompting involvement from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
The project has since resumed after the general contractor implemented a filtration system that meets DEC standards, allowing treated water to be discharged safely. Steel installation began this week, marking a significant step forward.
At the polls, some residents voiced continued support for the library. Jennifer
Kennedy, who voted alongside her two teenage children, said she values both the institution and the civic process. “I always bring my children with me when I vote because I think it is important to teach them about responsibility in a democracy,” she said, though she noted disappointment over reduced programming during construction.
Christian Maldonado, another voter, said he became more engaged this year after attending a budget meeting. “The director explained everything and showed how the library was spending our money,” he said. “I realized I wanted to support it.”
Others remained critical. Julie Collorafi, who organized opposition to the budget online, pointed to the rise in dissenting votes. “The ‘no’ votes went from 45 last year to 182 this year,” she said. “A lot of people are on fixed incomes, and every dollar counts.”
In Farmingdale, voters approved their library budget, 328 to 80, and reelected library trustee Laura Ulric to another fiveyear term.
The library proposed a $4.23 million budget, an increase from $4.15 million. The plan is within the New York State Tax Cap.
cludes projects such as the baseball field redesign and turf replacement at John Burns Park, the Mill Pond House restoration, and a facilities assessment of the Tinker Mansion in SyossetWoodbury Park.
“As an architectural professional with experience in all aspects of project design, planning, development and construction documentation phases, Michael Spinelli brings a wealth of knowledge to this new role,” Saladino said. “His vast background in all aspects of architectural processes and facilities management will surely be a welcome addition to the Planning Advisory Board.”
The next Town Board meeting is
In partnership with Russo Law Group, the National Foundation for Human Potential is hosting a complimentary, educational seminar series focused on planning ahead with confidence.
Trusts Planning will take place on May 21 with presenter Kim N. Christian, Esq. This seminar will take place at Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, 191 Bethpage-Sweet Hollow Road, Old Beth-
page from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. There will also be a hybrid option offered via Zoom. An invitation will be sent upon registration. The events will include complimentary admission and light refreshments will be provided.
To register, please visit loom. ly/9Ne3U0w. For more information, email elflahive@familyres.org or call (516) 870-7036.
Get
Residents should expect an increased law enforcement presence at Jones Beach State Park on May 31, when state and local agencies conduct a large-scale emergency response exercise.
The training, organized by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and State Park Police, will run from 8 a.m. to noon near Field 5. The exercise will simulate several emergency scenarios to test coordination among agencies.
Officials said the area around Field 5 will be closed to the public during the drill, and visitors will see a noticeable increase in police, fire and emergency personnel throughout the park.
Participants will include State Park Police, New York State Police, Nassau County Police, the Wantagh Fire Department and Jones Beach State Park staff, along with representatives from other federal, state and local agencies.
Authorities said any weapons used in the exercise will be incapable of firing live rounds.
Park Police are seeking volunteers age 18 and older to portray park visitors from 6:30 a.m. to noon. Those under 18 may participate with parental consent if they are part of an auxiliary or similar program. Volunteers must complete a service agreement and submit it to ParksEmergencyMgmt-Exercises@parks.ny.gov.
The Maurer Foundation for Breast Health Education is hosting its 12th Annual Motorcycle Ride for Breast Health Education. The event is Sunday, June 7 and starts at Overlook Beach where participants will gather before heading east to Mattituck for a team-building lunch.
The cost to ride is $30; vendor tables and sponsorships start at $100. All funds raised goes to charity.
For more information about the Maurer Foundation or to register go to: https://bit.ly/4bPaAUt
Attendees at the Alzheimer’s Foundation memory café enjoy music and socialization. tivities including music, singing and conversation.
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America has launched a new memory café program at its Barbara Rabinowitz Education & Resource Center in Amityville for families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related illnesses.
The program offers a relaxed setting where people living with dementia and their caregivers can socialize and connect with others facing similar challenges. Participants gather for ac-
The center, at 149 Schleigel Blvd., will host its next memory café on May 29. Residents interested in attending can register by calling (631) 223-4000.
In addition to the memory café, the center offers daily activity programs, caregiver support groups and memory screenings at no cost. More information is available at afalongisland.org or by calling the same number.
The Massapequa School District will be conducting a survey of parents of students in kindergarten through fifth grade who attend the Massapequa elementary schools to determine if there is any interest in a school breakfast program.
If insufficient interest is determined, an exemption to participate in this program will be requested by the Mass-
apequa Board of Education to the New York State Education Department. Parents and taxpayers are asked to share their concerns regarding the district’s survey and exemption request by contacting the Massapequa Food Service office in writing at Massapequa Administration, 4925 Merrick Road, Massapequa, N.Y. 11758 or by phone at (516) 308-5745.
Adventure, family, and the concept of time took center stage as the Farmingdale Playcrafters presented Tuck Everlasting, a production based on the novel by Natalie Babbitt and the 2016 Broadway musical adaptation. The show explored themes of mortality, choice, and the bittersweet nature of living fully.
To deepen audience engagement, the production utilized thrust seating, placing audience members on three sides of the stage. The design created an intimate viewing experience that brought patrons directly into the story’s setting in the woods of Treegap. Due to the limited seating capacity, performances sold out within 30 minutes of release.
In response to high demand, the district added a special preview performance on March 5, 2026. That same day, the cast also performed a daytime matinee for theater students from Howitt Middle School, offering younger performers an opportunity to experience a high school production from a professional vantage point and strengthening connections between the school communities.
Directed by Glen J. Beck, the production centered on a unifying concept described as “The Visual Language of Time,” contrasting the Tuck family—unchanging and “stuck” in time—with Winnie Foster, who represents growth and transformation.
“This production holds a special place in the history of Playcrafters,” Beck said. “For the first time, our current advi-
sors—Ms. Mischke, Ms. Capasso, and I—have had the opportunity to work side by side on a single production. This collaboration has united the club in a way that mirrors the show’s central theme: the importance of the families we are born into and the ones we choose.”
The cast featured Cassie Hill as Winnie Foster; Devin Williams as Jesse Tuck; William Herbert as Miles Tuck; Sofia Grago and Nicholas Suwalski as Mae and Angus Tuck; Jesse Arcuri as the Man in the Yellow Suit; and Gabbi Martinez and Angel Hernandez as Constable Joe and Hugo. The production also included a ballet sequence, “The Story of Winnie Foster,” choreographed by Layla Tarello and featuring Keira Hayden as Teenage Winnie and Tarello as Older Winnie.
The production team highlighted contributions from scenic designer Jamie Capasso, musical director Jessica Mischke, wig designer Erika Wells, and technical supervision by Joseph Hassett, overseeing lighting and sound.
A special matinee on March 7 at 1 p.m. featured swing performers Sofia Lambright (Winnie), Lea Fredonis (Mae), and Chris Cruciata (Miles), who stepped into lead roles.
Blending imaginative staging with existential themes, the Farmingdale Playcrafters’ Tuck Everlasting invited audiences to reflect on a central question posed by the story: if given the choice, would one choose to live forever?
THURSDAY, APRIL 23
•Massapequa Chamber of Commerce Networking Breakfast: 8 a.m., Nautilus Diner, 5523 Merrick Road, Massapequa. To register and for more information, please visit massapequachamber.org. or call (516) 541-1443.
•Town of Oyster Bay Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting: 7 p.m., Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay. For more information, call (516) 6246333.
FRIDAY, APRIL 24
•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631)-789-2569.
SUNDAY, APRIL 26
•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631) 789-2569.
MONDAY, APRIL 27
•Nassau County Legislature Full Legislature Meeting: 1p.m., Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building, 1550 Franklin Ave., Mineola. For more information, call 516-5716200.
•Massapequa Fire District Regular Monthly Meeting: 7:30 p.m., District Administration Building, 1 Brooklyn Ave., Massapequa. For more information, call (516) 798-9849.
TUESDAY, APRIL 28
•Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m., Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9592, 55 Hickory Lane, Levittown. Free weekly, in-person meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631) 332-0552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808. All calls are confidential.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29
•Town of Oyster Bay Board of Ethics
Calendar items are printed for non-profit organizations, as space permits, or when an event, service or information is being sponsored by a profit-making organization without charge to readers. Submit items to us at Richner Communications, attn: Post Editor, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530; or email: dconsola@liherald.com at least two - three weeks prior to the publication date in which the item must appear. Sorry, but open-ended requests without the specific dates of the events are not acceptable. While we make every attempt to accommodate each request, we cannot guarantee publication of any items. For more information, call 516-569-4000.
Meeting: 3 p.m., Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay. For more information, please call (516) 624-6860.
• Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m. Free
weekly, virtual meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631) 332-0552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808. All calls are confidential.
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7763 of Massapequa Park announced that its Military Tribute Banner Program is now open.
This Program offers veterans and their family members the opportunity to honor a veteran by displaying a personalized mili-
tary tribute banner in Massapequa Park.
To participate, go online to the VFW Post 7763 Facebook page or the Military Banner website: shorturl.at/gBSGc
You can also contact Victor Crespo at VFW Post 7763 at 516 799-6758 for further information.
A Drug Take Back Day will be taking place on May 2 at Massapequa Park Village Hall from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Bring your unwanted/unused prescription and over the counter medications to dispose of safely. Sharps will also be accepted.
This event is sponsored by Drug Free Long Island.
Massapequa Park Village Hall is located at 151 Front St., Massapequa Park.
For more information, please call (516) 639-2386 or email info@drugfreeli.org
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com
As part of a statewide effort to address declining volunteer firefighter enrollment, the Firefighters Association of the State of New York launched its 17th annual RecruitNY campaign with a news conference and a live firefighting demonstration at the Melville Fire Department April 15.
The initiative comes as the number of volunteer firefighters across the state has dropped by roughly 33 percent over the past two decades, from about 120,000 in the early 2000s to 80,000 today — even as emergency calls continue to rise. Recent data compiled by FASNY shows a 16 percent increase in house fires and a 37 percent jump in overall fire calls over that time, putting added strain on departments.
“It is very important for all of our communities to understand that fire and rescue service is staffed by volunteers who are will-
ing to go out 24/7 and respond to medical and fire emergencies as needed,” the association’s president, Gene Perry, said.
“While some departments are doing very well, others face challenges and are trying to get more people and younger people involved.”
Nearly 90 percent of fire departments statewide — including about 70 in Nassau and 100 in Suffolk — rely on volunteers, making recruitment a growing public safety concern.
As part of RecruitNY, departments across Long Island opened their doors for demonstrations and outreach events aimed at attracting new members. Officials said the effort is critical to maintaining staffing levels and emergency response capabilities.
At the Long Island kickoff, FASNY representatives joined local officials and firefighters to highlight recruitment efforts and encourage residents to consider volunteering. They also conducted a demonstration on how firefighters extinguish
dangerous car fires.
In a survey conducted by the association two years ago, 49 percent of New York residents expressed an interest in becoming volunteer firefighters. As well, 66 percent of respondents said they would visit their local fire station to learn more, and 55 percent reported that they would begin with an online search for information.
“What we need are more incentives to encourage people to volunteer, like tax
breaks on homes and priority for affordable housing for volunteers,” Assemblyman Steve Stern said. “These are critically important, but we need to go much further, and I want you to know that we see it and we hear it, because not having enough volunteers is a direct hit on us all — our families and our communities — and it puts our safety at risk.”
For more information on volunteering, contact your local volunteer fire department or visit fasny.com.
A. BLAKEMAN NASSAU COUNTY EXECUTIVE
invites
Come learn about local disability rights pioneer Dr. Henry Viscardi, Jr. and explore over 125 artifacts highlighting the fight for equal opportunity for people with disabilities.
The museum provides an inclusive, fully accessible experience for all visitors and is the perfect place to spend a fun and educational day with your family. School field trips and group tours welcome.
Did Callie train herself?
Border Collies are considered highly intelligent, yet a selftaught dog is a stretch. This red Border Collie became a certified therapy dog on Long Island without the required classes. She skipped right to the test and aced it.
Callie came to Last Hope Animal Rescue on a Georgia rescue transport in July 2024. She was an owner surrender on her way to a crowded local shelter. She had worked at a petting zoo with exotic animals, but, supposedly, the zebra and the camel started kicking her. An Australian Shepherd was aggressive toward her. (Note: Callie is the mildest Border Collie ever. Her background story and actual petting zoo job are sketchy.)
JOANNE ANDERSON
She never made it to the Georgia shelter because a transport driver picked Callie up at the wildlife park and drove her to Last Hope in Wantagh along with Georgia shelter dogs. Upon arrival, it became clear that Callie, about six years old, was terribly neglected. She went home as a foster dog with volunteers -Kathy and Andy -who had owned Jake, a typically active Border Collie for 17 years. Callie never came back to Last Hope.
Callie was covered with ticks and tested positive for two tick-borne diseases- erlichia and anaplasmosis. Both are treated with doxycycline. Her mouth was a black/green,
painful mess. Her teeth were worn down as if she had been eating rocks. The vet extracted five teeth that basically fell out of her mouth during her dental.
Kathy and Andy quickly realized Callie was a treasure. She was attentive, looking at her owners for permission before she completed a task. She got along with everyone from kids to the neighborhood dogs. She soon acquired a fan club on long walks around the neighborhood. Her paparazzi took turns giving her pets and belly rubs. The children across the street brought out books and read to Callie.
She does step in front of whoever is leash walking her as if she were herding sheep. However, unlike Jake and most Border Collies, she is calm, not always on the go, and doesn’t need to be entertained. She has never barked in two years, only during bad dreams. She cowers when someone gets up quickly, suggesting someone (other than the zebra and camel) hit her.
Kathy took Callie to Bright & Beautiful Therapy Dogs in East Rockaway to be evaluated as a therapy dog candidate. She already did the tasks and commands needed, without taking any lessons. Callie was signed up for the test with a certified evaluator. The therapy dog test is a combination of an AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test of ten commands plus extra tasks such as not being
afraid of a wheelchair. She passed the test with flying colors and now wears an official red vest when working as a Bright & Beautiful Therapy Dog.
For over ten years, Team Timmy, consisting of Timmy, a three-legged Lhasa, certified therapy dog and his sisters, Pammy Sue, a puppy mill breeder Shih tzu who needed complex orthopedic surgery to repair the leg she broke in the Kentucky puppy mill cage, and Beverly, a tiny Poodle rescued off Lost Angeles streets where she suffered from severe tremors, probably the result of surviving distemper, were Last Hope ambassadogs during adoption center tours and off-site visits. Sue, adopter of all three, and I are retired teachers. Our talks had two themes: shelter rescue and overcoming physical disabilities. Timmy and Beverly passed two years ago. Pammy Sue earned her retirement. We miss them terribly. They were the canine “Tony Orlando and Dawn”. Timmy was the animated leader who showed off how fast he could run on three legs, while his sisters were adorable but low key.
On April 15th, she made her first visit to James L. Vernon School in Oyster Bay- East Norwich district- a 3rd through 6th grade school. Callie, Kathy and I met with their Ambassador Club during an after-school meeting. The student ambassadors from each class host a community service fundraiser each year.
In December, club members sold squishy Mochis for $1 a piece during recess. Under the guidance of Ashley Weiman, school social worker, the club raised $350 for Last Hope. Callie was there to accept the generous check and to represent both rescue and therapy dogs.
Kathy has seen Callie with neighborhood children who read to her outdoors, but this was Callie’s first large group, inside event. Callie was a calm pro- quiet during discussion, appreciative to receive petting and belly rubs from simultaneous hands. The club members, faculty, and security guard joined the Callie fan club too.
Callie has two more school visits penciled on her dance card, And the best news- James L. Vernon School did not have a camel, zebra, or Australian Shepherd, lurking on school grounds.
Compiled by Herald Staff, Photos by Carolyn James/Herald
Charlotte Jacobs
Massapequa Park
I like to do doodles and to color with my mom and my sister. Sometimes my sister gets markers on my pictures, but that’s okay.
Joseph Grant East Massapequa
I would be a fool. Get it, April Fools. No really, I would probably watch television and have some snacks or get into my Jacuzzi.
Rocco Monjardo Massapequa Park
I like to play the video game Rocket League.
Joseph Mulligan
Massapequa Park
The best thing to do is go to the movies with my friends when it rains.
to go outside and jump
By Abbey Salvemini
As spring moves forward towards its peak, Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park in Oyster Bay bursts into a vivid celebration of color, nature and community. This weekend, April 25–26, the inaugural Branches in Bloom Festival invites visitors to stroll beneath sweeping canopies of magnolias, cherry blossoms and other flowering trees.
Blending longstanding tradition with new experiences, the festival refreshes the site’s beloved Arbor Day celebration of years past. Guests can explore the historic estate in colorful bloom while enjoying guided tours, live entertainment and familyfriendly activities, making it an easy spring highlight for visitors of all ages.
The new festival is both a tribute and a transformation.
“Branches in Bloom is a reimagination of a 40-year-old tradition here at Planting Fields,” Communications and Marketing Manager Kayla Cheshire says. “It’s still in honor of Arbor Day, but now we’re really able to focus on our spring flowering collection, something thousands of visitors come to see each year.”
That shift is most visible in the festival’s new setting. Instead of hosting activities away from the colorful trees, organizers moved the entire event to the West Lawn, placing everyone directly among the site’s most stunning seasonal displays. That change will have an immediate impact, according to Stewardship Director Lilly McGurk.
“The focus on the spring blooms is really going to knock everybody’s socks off,” she says with enthusiasm.
The refreshed format also reflects a broader push to make the festival more engaging and accessible to all audiences. While hands-on tree education and environmental programming remain at its core, the expanded offerings are designed to be inviting for families, younger visitors and those discovering the grounds for the first time.
“We wanted to create something that feels contemporary and welcoming to all,” McGurk explains. “People are looking to get outside, enjoy nature and spend time together. This brings in that wellness aspect while still celebrating the environment.”
Over the course of the weekend, the festival
blends learning with leisure, offering something for both the curious and the casual visitor. Guided tours led by expert horticulturalists, including Arboretum Director Vincent Simeone, provide behind-the-scenes insight into the site’s celebrated collections, while interactive demonstrations and displays offer practical inspiration for gardeners at every level.
Music, magic shows, jugglers and roaming performers keep the grounds buzzing with energy throughout the day.
Anchoring the schedule are performances by Strummin’ and Drummin’ (spanning late morning into the afternoon), complemented by face painting, caricatures and a lineup of food trucks offering plenty of casual bites and treats.
For families, interactive experiences are a major draw. The Kids Tree Climb run by longtime sponsor Wonderland Tree Care + Landscapes returns as a centerpiece activity, giving children the chance to safely scale trees under professional supervision. Due to high demand, last entry is at 2:30 p.m. to ensure all finish by the 4 p.m. close.
• Saturday and Sunday, April 25-26, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Admission is $30 per car, or if taking the LIRR to Oyster Bay, $5 per person (kids under 3 free); learn at plantingfields.org
• 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay
Craft stations include simple coloring and imaginative projects like wearable “bee crowns,” designed to spark creativity and connect visitors to nature.
“We design activities with everyone in mind,” McGurk says. “There are things for kids, adults and families to enjoy together.”
The festival also underscores the broader mission of the Planting Fields Foundation, which works in partnership with New York State Parks, to preserve and maintain stewardship of the site. Beyond its celebrated horticulture, the organization continues to highlight the estate’s layered history, art and culture — threads that run throughout the programming and shape the visitor experience.
“There’s so much more here than just the plants,” Cheshire adds. “There’s history, there’s art, there’s culture. Events like this allow us to showcase all of that while making the site accessible to people of all ages and abilities.”
Accessibility remains a priority. This year, organizers pilot a shuttle from the Oyster Bay LIRR station making it easier for visitors from throughout the region to attend without a car. Supported by a state tourism grant through I Love New York, this expands the festival’s reach.
“We want everyone to feel welcome here,” Cheshire says. “This is about creating access not just to the festival, but to green space and nature in general.”
Even with its expanded offerings, Branches in Bloom remains firmly rooted in its Arbor Day heritage. Tree giveaways, educational exhibits, a plant sale, and environmental partnerships continue to anchor the festival, preserving its mission-driven focus while allowing it to evolve and resonate with a new generation.
With blooms in full display, immersive activities and a renewed focus on community connection, organizers aim for the festival to take root as a lasting seasonal celebration.
“It’s a new take on a tradition that means a lot to us. At the end of the day, it’s about bringing people together, celebrating the season and sharing this incredible place with as many people as possible,” Cheshire says.
In the long tradition of American roots music family groups, the Chapin family holds a distinctive place. Tom Chapin, Steve Chapin, Jen Chapin, and The Chapin Sisters (Abigail and Lily Chapin) are all accomplished artists with a shared commitment to family and music that connects deeply with audiences. Their performances together bring that spirit into focus in a powerful and personal way at this special concert honoring Harry Chapin’s legacy. Two generations of his family come together to perform his songs, joined by The Harry Chapin Band, featuring Big John Wallace and Howard Fields.His iiconic works are performed lwith the energy and intimacy they were written with in mind. In keeping with Harry’s lifelong commitment to fighting hunger, everyone is encouraged to bring nonperishable items, to be donated to a local food bank.
Friday, April 24, 8 p.m. $91, $71, $51. JLandmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.
Chazz Palminteri returns with his electrifying solo performance of “A Bronx Tale,” the autobiographical one-man show that launched his career. Raw, riveting and deeply personal, the play draws on his bruising childhood in the Bronx, including the moment — at just nineyears-old — when he witnessed a gangland killing that forever shaped his world-view. Onstage, Palminteri inhabits 18 vividly drawn characters, seamlessly shifting between friends, foes and family members to conjure an entire neighborhood with nothing but his voice, physicality and storytelling prowess. First written and performed in 1989, A Bronx Tale quickly became a sensation, hailed as one of the most sought-after stage properties since Rocky. The original production paved the way for the acclaimed film adaptation — directed by Robert De Niro—and later a hit Broadway musical.
Sunday, April 26, 7:30 p.m. The Paramount. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
Vanderbilt Museum welcomes everyone to enjoy the exhibition of outdoor sculpture at the historic summer estate of William Kissam Vanderbilt II. Klemperer’s sculptures. a haunting assemblage of animal forms that span imaginary, endangered, familiar, and exotic species, celebrate natural history and the nonhuman world through evocative interactions with the surrounding environment. Using materials salvaged from scrapyards, she composes ecological narratives that respond to the history and collections of Suffolk County’s first public park and museum. Her brilliant use of gestural lines captures the spectator’s attention and invites museumgoers to reflect on the relationship between an interest in animal life and the incessant push of human industry. Visitors are encouraged to picnic on the grounds.
• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport
• Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Contact: vanderbiltmuseum. org or call (631) 854-5579
‘Everybody Loves Raymond:
Celebrating 30 Years’
Visit the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame for an immersive exhibit (designed by LIMEHOF Creative Director, renowned designer Kevin O’Callaghan). It features the 70-foot-wide set from the show’s recent 30th anniversary TV special on CBS, never before on display. Visitors can walk into the world of the Barone family and explore their home through original studio sets, which include the living room, the kitchen and other areas of the house. Also see a variety of iconic items, including original clothing, the famous fork and spoon, and the Christmas toaster, among other classic items from the series. Multimedia clips, including behind the scenes and rare out-takes and a range of related videos play in LIMEHOF’s surround sound theater.
• Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook
• Time: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
• Contact: limusichalloffame. org or (631) 689-5888
Oyster Bay Zoning Board meets
The Town of Oyster Bay holds
In concert
The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame welcomes guitarist Bob Westcott. He is no stranger to Long Island audiences. His career began as a teenager playing guitar in the streets and basket houses of Greenwich Village, and, more auspiciously, as one of the very first members of the Wes Houston Band. Onetime owner of Folk City and famed Greenwich Village scene author Robbie Woliver has called Bob “the real deal”, and for good reason: Bob has been perfecting his elegant finger-style guitar work many years.
• Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook
• Time: 3 p.m.
• Contact: limusichalloffame. org or (631) 689-5888
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
For the past five-plus decades, over 8,000 live shows and more than 15 million albums sold, George Thorogood and The Destroyers have been “The All-American Rock & Roll Party Band” (Goldmine Magazine). In celebration of 53 years of “playing rock ‘n roll hot enough to melt the polar icecaps and flood the world’s major population centers” (Rolling Stone), the group continues The Baddest Show On Earth Tour — a stage-shaking, roofraising, guitar-snarling blast. For an artist whose music honors the blues, rock and country legends of the past, Thorogood’s forward momentum is now stronger than ever. And along with longtime Destroyers Jeff Simon (drums), Bill Blough (bass), Jim Suhler (guitar) and Buddy Leach (saxophone), they continue “to slap a custom flame paint job onto those classic sounds” (Blues Blast Magazine) like never before. The band has lways delivered on their promises. In 1976, they debuted as the most explosive indie breakthrough act of the decade. Throughout the ‘80s/’90s MTV era, Thorogood was the epitome of snakeskin and shades guitar-slinger cool. And with chart-topping hits like ‘One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer’, ‘Move It On Over’, ‘Who Do You Love?’, ‘I Drink Alone’, ‘Get A Haircut’ and the ultimate badass anthem ‘Bad To The Bone’, the band soon became undeniable cornerstones of classic Rock. Meanwhile, their album catalog continues to dominate streaming charts worldwide.
their their Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting. All are welcome to attend.
• Where: Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 624-6333
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., also April 24, April 26-27 and April 29-30
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
Thrift Shop Stop by Simpson United Methodist Church’s Thrift Shop for some unique finds.
• Where: 30 Locust Ave., Amityville
• Time: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 789-2569
Stop by St. Mary’s Thrift Shop to check out some found treasures. Choose from collectibles, glassware, clothing and other gently used items.
• Where: St. Mary’s, 175 Broadway, Amityville (enter from rear parking lot)
• Time: 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 464-4899
25
Voices of America 250 Concert
Massapequa Public Library welcomes pianist-music arranger Alexander Wu and his trio. Explore and enjoy “Voices of America” in celebration of the United States’ 250th anniversary. The program recreates iconic musical performances of the greatest artists and music heard at the White House Concerts through the decades. Registration is required.
• Where: 40 Harbor Lane, Massapequa Park
• Time: 2-3:30 p.m.
• Contact: massapequalibrary.org or (516) 798-4607
The Lovin’ Spoonful Fondly known as “America’s answer to the Beatles,” the band brings their chart-topping folk-rock hits to the Madison Theatre. Formed in New York’s Greenwich Village, The Lovin’ Spoonful, made up of original band members John Sebastian, Steve Boone, Joe Butler, and Zal Yanovsky, exploded onto the charts sending their first seven singles soaring onto Billboard’s Top-10 virtually overnight. Their first single, “Do You Believe in Magic,” flew to the top of the charts, followed by an unprecedented string of hits. Today, The Lovin’ Spoonful tours with founding member Steve Boone, along with Jeff Alan Ross (Badfinger, Peter Asher), Bill Cinque (Neil Diamond), longtime drummer Mike Arturi, and Rob Bonfiglio (The Beach Boys, Brian Wilson Band, Wilson Phillips).
• Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444
The Town of Oyster Bay holds their annual Car Show Long Island Spring Classic. Trophies are awarded in each class, and children have a say when deeming which rides are their favorites in the Kids’ Choice Award. Rain date isscheduled for May 2.
• Where: TOBAY Beach, Ocean Parkway, Massapequa
• Time: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Contact: carshowli.com.
Massapequa Fire District meets The Massapequa Fire District holds their regular monthly meeting. All are welcome to attend.
• Where: Massapequa Fire District Administration Building, 1 Brooklyn Ave., Massapequa
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 798-9849
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.
Notice of formation of THE CHARCUTERIE WIVES, LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SS Y) on 02/11/2026
Office location, County of Nassau
SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a process served to: THE CHARCUTERIE WIVES, LLC , 2081 Willoughby Ave, Wantagh NY 11793 Purpose: any lawful act.
26-57 3/25, 4/1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Notice of Formation of Specline Tech LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/18/2026. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: 9 Seneca St E, Massapequa, NY 11758. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
26-78. 4/15, 22, 29, 5/6, 13, 20
Notice of Formation, Hill City Homes LLC Articles of Organization Filed with the Secretary of New York (SSNY) on 10/28/2025
Office Location: Nassau County SSNY designated for service of process & shall mail copies of any process served against the LLC to: 266 Glengariff Rd, Massapequa Park, NY 11762 Purpose: any lawful purpose of activity
26-79. 4/15, 22, 29, 5/6, 13, 20
Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-0370-26108964 for liquor, beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor, beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Bar/ Tavern under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 3355 Merrick Road, Wantagh, NY 11793, County of Nassau, for on premises consumption at Sunrise Tavern LLC.
26-80. 4/22, 29
LEGAL NOTICE
PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a Public Hearing will be held on Monday May 11, 2026, at 7 PM in Village Hall, 151 Front Street, Massapequa Park, New York to adopt a Local Law to authorize the Incorporated Village of Massapequa Park to establish a 50% Real Property Tax Exemption for the Surviving Spouses of Police Officers Killed in the Line of Duty; pursuant to §471 of the Real Property Tax Law. Anyone wishing to be heard will be given the opportunity at the above time and place mentioned.
LINDA TUMINELLO, RMC
VILLAGE ADMINISTRATOR/CLERK
By Order of the Board of Trustees
Inc. Village of Massapequa Park
Dated this 14th day of April 2026
Telephone 516-798-0244
Fax 516-798-6106
26-81 4/22
LEGAL NOTICE To the Taxpayers of the Massapequa Fire District NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a resolution was duly adopted by the Board of Fire Commissioners of the MASSAPEQUA FIRE DISTRICT, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau, State of New York, on the 23rd day of March 2026, subject to permissive referendum as provided by Town Law.
An extract of the resolution is as follows:
THE MASSAPEQUA FIRE DISTRICT SHALL PURCHASE
ONE (1) 2026 CHEVROLET TAHOE AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT VALUED AT APPROXIMATELY EIGHTY-FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS AND ZERO CENTS ($85,000.00) IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE AUTHORITY VESTED IN THE BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS UNDER SECTION 176 SUBDIVISION 23 OF THE TOWN LAW.
Purchase of such equipment is subject to permissive referendum as required under Section 176 subdivision 23 of the Town Law and in accordance with procedures for permissive referendums as described in the General Municipal Law.
Dated: March 23, 2026
BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS
MASSAPEQUA FIRE DISTRICT
TOWN OF OYSTER BAY ATTEST: PATRICIA HARLEY Secretary 26-82. 4/22
LEGAL NOTICE
To the Taxpayers of the Massapequa Fire District NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a resolution was duly adopted by the Board of Fire Commissioners of the MASSAPEQUA FIRE DISTRICT, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau, State of New York, on the 23rd day of March 2026, subject to permissive referendum as provided by Town Law.
An extract of the resolution is as follows:
THE MASSAPEQUA FIRE DISTRICT SHALL
PURCHASE APPROXIMATELY 1500 FEET OF 4” SUPPLY HOSE AND ALL NECESSARY ADAPTORS VALUED AT APPROXIMATELY ONE HUNDRED FORTY-FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS AND ZERO CENTS ($145,000.00) IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE AUTHORITY VESTED IN THE BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS UNDER SECTION 176 SUBDIVISION 23 OF THE TOWN LAW.
Purchase of such equipment is subject to permissive referendum as required under Section 176 subdivision 23 of the Town Law and in accordance with procedures for permissive referendums as described in the General Municipal Law.
Dated: March 23, 2026
BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS
MASSAPEQUA FIRE DISTRICT
TOWN OF OYSTER BAY ATTEST: PATRICIA HARLEY
Secretary 26-83. 4/22
Mother’s Day is celebrated each May and marks a perfect opportunity to show Mom how much she’s loved and appreciated. Mother’s Day has been celebrated for more than 100 years, and in that time mothers have grown accustomed to certain staples of the holiday. A bouquet of fresh flowers, Sunday brunch at a local restaurant and some gifts from a partner and the children have become standards each Mother’s Day.
While Mother’s Day standards may never lose their appeal, families looking to make this year’s celebration a little more unique can consider these ideas.
• Whip up (or order in) some baked goods. If Mom is the family baker, surprise her this year with some homemade baked goods. An aroma of freshly baked goodies around the house can set a welcoming tone for the day, particularly if the treats are prepared in the morning before Mom wakes up. Partners and children whose baking skills leave a little to be desired can get some freshly baked treats from a local bakery and have them waiting for Mom when she wakes up.
• Take to the road. Another way to make Mother’s Day extra special is to make the celebration a weekend affair.
A weekend getaway can be a welcome breath of fresh air for mothers and serve as a great opportunity for the family to unwind and celebrate Mom away from everything that reminds her of the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A getaway can be an especially ideal surprise for mothers whose children are full grown. Invite adult kids along and make their attendance a surprise for Mom.
• Book a unique experience. Experiential gifts have been wildly popular in recent years, so why not incorporate this trend into Mother’s Day celebrations? Book a tour of a local vineyard or winery, take Mom to a live theater performance, or
take her out for a day on the water, complete with brunch and a champagne toast. Such memorable experiences won’t soon be forgotten and can provide an exciting alternative to previous Mother’s Day celebrations.
• Ensure Mom doesn’t lift a finger. A truly special Mother’s Day will give Mom a day off. Partners and kids can team up to take care of everything from the moment Mom wakes up until she returns to bed at night. Serve breakfast in bed, order in some lunch and then take Mom out for a nice meal at a local restaurant. In between meals, let Mom relax any way she sees fit, whether that’s curling up with a good book, dusting off her paint brush and engaging in some artistic endeavors and/or squeezing in a rare midday nap. Mom will undoubtedly appreciate a full day off, which might just make for the best gift of all.
Mother’s Day is the ideal time to offer Mom a unique experience that shows her how much she’s loved and appreciated.
Mother’s Day is a time to express love and appreciation for mothers, sentiments that are often expressed with gifts. Flowers are a popular present to bestow on Mother’s Day, as they can brighten a room and bring a sweet aroma to any household.
While any flowers may ultimately suffice on Mother’s Day, gift givers may want to select flowers for Mom that convey specific messages. The language of flowers has been recognized for centuries. Though perhaps not as heralded as it once was, flower symbolism persists to this day. Here’s a look at some of the meanings behind certain types of flowers to help guide Mother’s Day gifting.
• Begonia: There are more than 2,000 types of begonias, and the flower symbolizes deep thoughts. Begonias were made famous by French horticulturist Michel Bégon, who thought the blooms looked like beautiful
• Camellia (white): White camellias stand for purity and innocence, but they also symbolize admiration and respect. Camellias make beautiful additions to any bouquet.
• Daisy: Daisies are happy-looking flowers, and according to Norse mythology they represent motherhood and children.
• Tulip: Tulips with an orange hue are thought to represent understanding and appreciation. They can express appreciation for Mom or another special person. Yellow tulips symbolize happiness, while pink tulips are symbolic of love. Red blooms should be reserved for sweethearts.
Various flowers symbolize feelings people want to express to their mothers, grandmothers and other special women on Mother’s Day.
NOTICE OF ANNUAL SCHOOL DISTRICT MEETING AND ANNUAL ELECTION OF MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION AND PUBLIC HEARING PLAINEDGE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, TOWN OF OYSTER BAY COUNTY OF NASSAU, NEW YORK
NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that the annual meeting of the qualified voters of the Plainedge Union Free School District, Nassau County, New York, will be held on May 19, 2026, at the Plainedge High School, Wyngate and Peony Drives, North Massapequa, New York, for the following purposes:
a) To vote upon the annual school budget for the year 2026-2027 and to authorize the levying of a tax upon the taxable property of the district for the foregoing purposes.
b) To elect two (2) members to the Board of Education for a term of three (3) years, commencing July 1, 2026 and expiring June 30, 2029, to fill the positions presently occupied by Joseph Beyrouty and Kathleen Versace.
c) To vote for the following resolution: RESOLVED, that the library budget proposed by the Board of Trustees of the school district library and the levy of a tax therefore in accordance with Section 259 of the Education Law shall be approved.
d) To elect one (1) member to the Board of Trustees of the Plainedge School District Public Library; to fill a five (5) year term commencing July 1, 2026 and expiring June 30, 2031, presently occupied by Laura Oden-Bell. To
vote upon such other propositions as may properly come before the meeting.
To vote upon the following propositions:
e) Establish a Capital Reserve Fund known as the “Capital Reserve Fund 2026 –Facilities Upgrades” RESOLVED that the Board of Education, pursuant to Education Law section 3651, be authorized to establish a Capital Reserve Fund known as the “Capital Reserve Fund 2026 – Facilities Upgrades” for the purpose of instructional and non-instructional space improvements/ renovations/upgrades, (including but not limited to classroom improvements/renovations/upgrades and/ or additions to existing facilities), auditorium renovations, gymnasium renovations, cafeteria renovations, library/multi media center renovations, exterior renovations/ reconstruction, computer/technology upgrades, security system upgrades, plumbing improvements/renovations/upgrades, electrical improvements/renovations/ upgrades, HVAC improvements/renovations/upgrades, energy efficiency improvements/renovation/upgrades, including the installation of solar power, improvements/ renovations/ upgrades, fuel tank replacement, renovations required for compliance with ADA requirements, vocational and career preparation renovations, portable classroom replacement and/or purchase, roof/gutter/ leader replacement, window replacement, structural renovations including masonry, brick and steel replacement, paving and concrete replacement, interior and exterior door/entry ways re-
placement (including hardware), toilet room renovations, lighting upgrades, ceiling replacement, floor replacement, wall replacement, boiler replacements, elevators, carpentry renovations, purchase of buildings/land, site renovations/reconstruction including track resurfacing and turf field replacement, press box/dugout/ field house improvements/renovations/ upgrades, bleacher improvements/renovations/upgrades, upgrades of signs, athletic field renovations/reconstruction, tennis court renovations, playground renovations, lockers/ locker room renovations, public address/ clock system replacement, sound system upgrades, telephone system upgrades, hazardous material remediation, storage space renovations, furnishings and equipment, including the purchase of vehicles.
The maximum amount of the aforesaid Capital Reserve Fund shall be $25,000,000 plus investment income and the probable term is to be 15 years; the funds are to be transferred from the Unemployment Reserve Fund in a sum not to exceed $1,000,000, from the Workers Compensation Reserve Fund in a sum not to exceed $250,000 and the Retirement Reserve Fund in a sum not to exceed $3,000,000, for the 2025-26 budget year and from surplus monies remaining in unreserved undesignated fund balance in the general fund in an annual amount not to exceed $5,000,000 each year. Upon the establishment and funding of said reserve, the Superintendent of Schools or his/her designee shall be directed
to deposit monies of this reserve fund in a separate bank account to be known as the “Capital Reserve 2026 – Facilities Upgrades”
f) Expenditure from Capital Reserve Fund – Safety and Security Initiative Fund
RESOLVED that the Board of Education be authorized to expend a sum not to exceed $2,036,700 out of Capital Reserve III: Safety and Security Initiative Fund established May 15, 2018, for the purpose of: replacement of existing original classroom windows at Eastplain Elementary School; replacement of courtyard and north elevation windows at Plainedge High School, all of the foregoing to include all labor, materials, equipment, apparatus and incidental costs related thereto. Since the funds to be expended hereunder come from the Capital Reserve Fund approval of this proposition will not require a tax levy upon the real property of the district. This Proposition shall be independent of Proposition No. 1.. g) Expenditure from Capital Reserve Fund – Facilities Upgrades
RESOLVED that the Board of Education be authorized to expend a sum not to exceed $3,792,734 out of Capital Reserve Fund – Facilities Upgrades established May 21, 2019, for the purpose of replacement of classroom heating, ventilation and air conditioning at Eastplain Elementary School; expansion of drainage and paving at Flower Road at Charles E. Schwarting; replacement of stair threads and riser covers, site restoration, asphalt, concrete and curbs at Plainedge Middle School, all of the foregoing to in-
clude all labor, materials, equipment, apparatus and incidental costs related thereto. Since the funds to be expended hereunder come from the Capital Reserve Fund approval of this proposition will not require a tax levy upon the real property of the district. This Proposition shall be independent of Proposition No. 1.. h) Vote at Large BE IT RESOLVED
THAT the Board of Education authorizes the following proposition to be placed before the voters at the May 19, 2026 annual budget vote and election: In all subsequent elections, vacancies upon the board of education shall not be considered separate specific offices and that the nominating petitions shall not describe any specific vacancy upon the board of education for the which candidate is nominated.
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Board of Education will hold a public hearing on May 12, 2026, at 7:30 PM in the Plainedge High School located at 241 Wyngate Drive, Massapequa, New York, for the purpose of explaining expenditure of funds and the budgeting therefore relative to the appropriation of necessary funds to meet the necessary expenditures of said school district for school year 20262027.
NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Library Board will hold a public hearing on May 11, 2026, at 7:00 P.M. at the Plainedge Library located on Hicksville Road, Massapequa, New York, for the purpose of discussing expenditure of funds and the budgeting therefore relative to the appropriation of necessary funds to meet the necessary expen-
ditures of said library for the school year 2026-2027 at which time and which place all persons interested in the subject matter thereof concerning the same will have an opportunity to be heard.
NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that the annual meeting and election shall be conducted by voting on propositions and candidates on voting machines on said May 19, 2026, commencing at 6:00 AM and ending at 9:00 PM.
AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that a copy of the statement of the amount of money which will be required for the ensuing year for school purposes (school budget) exclusive of public monies, and copies of propositions to be voted upon, may be obtained by any taxpayer in the district during the fourteen (14) days immediately preceding the annual meeting, except Saturday, Sunday or holidays, at each schoolhouse in which school is maintained during the hours of 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. The aforesaid budget statement shall contain the amount of money to be paid to the Plainedge School District Library for library services for the year beginning July 1, 2026. A Real Property Tax Exemption Report prepared in accordance with Section 495 of the Real Property Tax Law will be annexed to any tentative/preliminary budget as well as the final adopted budget of which it will form a part; and shall be posted on District bulletin board(s) maintained for public notices, as well as on the District’s website.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that nominations for the office of member of
the Board of Education and office of member of the Library Board, shall be made by petition subscribed by at least twenty-nine (29) qualified voters of the District, stating the residence of each signer and the name and residence of the candidate. The nominating petition for the office of member of the Board of Education shall also describe the specific vacancy on the Board of Education for which the candidate is nominated, which description shall include at least the length of the term of the office and the name of the last incumbent, if any. No person shall be nominated for more than one separate office. The nominating petition must be filed in the office of the Clerk of the District between the hours of 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM not later than April 20, 2026. AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that the Board of Registration of this School District shall meet at the office of the District Clerk at the Plainedge District Office as set forth in this notice of meeting, between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM on May 14, 2026 for the purpose of preparing a register of the qualified voters entitled to vote at the school meeting and election for which such register is prepared in the manner provided by Section 2014 of the Education Law. At this time, any person shall be entitled to have his/ her name placed upon such registry provided that at such meeting of the Board of Registration, he/she is known, proven to the satisfaction of the Board of Registration, to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at the annual district election for which such register is prepared.
Registration of voters for the 2026-2027 annual school meeting and election shall also be held in the office of the District Clerk at Plainedge’s Administrative building from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM on days when school is in session. Such registration shall not take place less than five days preceding the school meeting and election. The register so prepared will be filed in the office of the Clerk of the District, and such register will be open for inspection on each of the five (5) days prior to day set for voting on the budget and election, between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM except Saturday when it will be available by appointment only, between the hours of 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM.
AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that a person shall be entitled to vote at the annual meeting and election who is a citizen of the United States, eighteen years of age, a resident of the school district for a period of thirty days next preceding the election he offers to vote and registered to vote for said election. A person shall be registered to vote if he or she shall have permanently registered with the Nassau County Board of Elections or with the School District’s Board of Registration. Only persons who shall be registered shall be entitled to vote.
AND NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the Board of Registration will meet during the hours of voting at the Annual District Meeting and Election on May 19, 2026, at the polling place in the election district for the purpose of preparing
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PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the election shall be held in accordance with the Education Law and the Rules for the Conduct of Meetings and Elections adopted by the Board of Education.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that any proposition or question to be placed upon the voting machines shall be submitted in writing by petition subscribed by at least seventy-two (72) qualified voters of the District and filed in the Office of the Clerk of the District between the hours of 9:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. not later than April 20, 2026. This rule shall not apply to those questions or propositions, which are required to be stated in the published or posted notice of the meeting or to those propositions or questions, which the Board of Education has authority to present at any annual or special meeting of the district.
of the District Clerk. Such applications must be received by the District Clerk no earlier than thirty (30) days before the election. Furthermore, such application must be received by the District Clerk at least seven days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or his/her designated agent. Upon receiving a timely request for a mailed absentee ballot, the District Clerk will mail the ballot to the address set forth in the application by no later than six (6) days before the vote. No absentee voter's ballot will be canvassed unless it has been received in the office of the District Clerk not later than 5:00 P.M. (prevailing time) on the day of the election.
PLEASE TAKE
of the polls on election day and showing a cancellation mark of the United States postal service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States government; or (2) received by the office of the District Clerk by no later than 5:00 p.m. on election day and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is associated to be not later than the day before the election.
Dated: March 19, 2026 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF Massapequa, New York EDUCATION OF PLAINEDGE UNION FREE
SCHOOL DISTRICT
TOWN OF OYSTER BAY
COUNTY OF NASSAU, NEW YORK
NOREEN GREENE
la imposición de un impuesto sobre la propiedad sujeta a impuestos del distrito para los fines anteriores.
b) Para elegir dos (2) miembros para la Junta de Educación por un mandato de tres (3) años, a partir del 1 de julio de 2026 y con fecha de expiración el 30 de junio de 2029, para cubrir los puestos actuales ocupado por Joseph Beyrouty y Kathleen Versace.
c) Para votar a favor de la siguiente resolución: RESUELTO que el presupuesto de la biblioteca propuesto por la Junta de Síndicos del colegio biblioteca distrital y la imposición de un impuesto, por tanto, de acuerdo con la Sección 259 de la Se aprobará la Ley de Educación.
DISTRICT CLERK 26-59 4/1, 15, 22, 5/6
MIEMBROS DE LA JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN Y AUDIENCIA
PÚBLICA ESCUELA LIBRE DE PLAINEDGE UNION
DISTRITO, MUNICIPIO DE OYSTER BAY
CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK
d) Elegir a uno (1) miembro para la Junta de Síndicos del Distrito Escolar de Plainedge Biblioteca Pública; para cubrir un mandato de cinco (5) años que comienza el 1 de julio de 2026 y expira en junio 30, 2031, actualmente ocupado por Laura Oden-Bell. Votar sobre tal otro propuestas que puedan presentarse adecuadamente antes de la reunión.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that applications for absentee ballots for the school budget vote and election of board members may be applied for at the office
FURTHER NOTICE that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the school district. Military voters who are qualified voters of the school district may submit an application for a military ballot. Military voters may designate a preference to receive a military voter registration, military ballot application or military ballot by mail, facsimile transmission or electronic mail in their request for such registration, ballot application or ballot. Military voter registration forms and military ballot application forms must be received in the office of the District Clerk of the school district no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 23, 2026. No military ballot will be canvassed unless it is (1) received in the office of the District Clerk before the close
SE NOTIFICA POR LA PRESENTE que la reunión anual de los votantes cualificados de la El distrito escolar Plainedge Union Free, condado de Nassau, Nueva York, se celebrará el 19 de mayo, 2026, en el instituto Plainedge High School, Wyngate y Peony Drives, North Massapequa, New York, para los siguientes fines:
a) Para votar sobre el presupuesto anual de la escuela para el año 2026-2027 y autorizar el
Para votar sobre las proposiciones del ala de seguidores: e) Establecer un Fondo de Reserva de Capital conocido como "Fondo de Reserva de Capital 2026 – Mejoras de Instalaciones" RESUELTO que la Junta de Educación, conforme a la sección 3651 de la Ley de Educación, esté autorizada a establecer un Fondo de Reserva de Capital conocido como "Fondo de Reserva de Capital 2026 – Mejoras de Instalaciones" con el
propósito de mejoras/ renovaciones/mejoras de espacios didácticos y no didáctivos (incluyendo, pero no limitado a, mejoras/ renovaciones/mejoras y/o ampliaciones de las instalaciones existentes), renovaciones de auditorios, Renovaciones de gimnasio, reformas de cafetería, reformas de biblioteca/ centro multimedia, renovaciones/reconstrucción exterior, mejoras informáticas/ tecnológicas, mejoras de sistemas de seguridad, mejoras/renovaciones/mejoras de fontanería, mejoras/ renovaciones/mejoras eléctricas, mejoras/ renovaciones/mejoras de HVAC, mejoras/ mejoras/mejoras de eficiencia energética/ mejoras/mejoras, incluyendo la instalación de energía solar, mejoras/renovaciones/ mejoras, reemplazo de depósito de combustible, reformas necesarias para cumplimiento de los requisitos de la ADA, renovaciones profesionales y de preparación profesional, sustitución y/o compra de aulas portátiles, sustitución de tejados/canalones/ líderes, sustitución de ventanas, renovaciones estructurales incluyendo sustitución de mampostería, ladrillo y acero, sustitución de pavimento y hormigón, sustitución de puertas y entradas interiores y exteriores (incluidos herrajes), reformas de aseos, mejoras de iluminación, sustitución de techos, sustitución de suelos, sustitución de paredes, sustituciones de calderas, ascensores, reformas de carpintería, compra de edificios/ terrenos, renovaciones/reconstrucción del terreno incluyendo reasfaltado de pistas y sustitución del césped del campo, mejoras/ mejoras/renovaciones/mejoras de la ca-
bina de prensa/banquillo/casa de campo, mejoras/mejoras de gradas/mejoras/mejoras en las gradas, mejoras de señales, renovaciones/reconstrucción de campos deportivos, reformas de pistas de tenis, renovaciones de parques infantiles, renovaciones de taquillas/vestuarios, reemplazo de sistemas de megafonía/reloj, mejoras en sistemas de sonido, mejoras en sistemas de teléfono, peligrosos remediación de materiales, renovaciones de espacios de almacenamiento, mobiliario y equipos, incluyendo la compra de vehículos. La cantidad máxima del mencionado Fondo de Reserva de Capital será de $25,000,000 más ingresos por inversiones y el plazo probable será de 15 años; los fondos deben transferirse desde el Fondo de Reserva de Desempleo en una suma que no exceda los 1.000.000 de dólares, desde el Fondo de Reserva de Compensación para Trabajadores en una suma que no exceda los 250.000 dólares y desde el Fondo de Reserva de Jubilación en una suma que no exceda los 3.000.000 de dólares para el año presupuestario 202526 y de los fondos excedentes restantes en el saldo no reservado del fondo general en un importe anual que no exceda los 5.000.000 de dólares cada año. Al establecer y financiar dicha reserva, se indicará al Superintendente de Escuelas o su representante depositar los fondos de este fondo de reserva en una cuenta bancaria separada que se conocerá como "Capital Reserve 2026 – Mejoras de Instalaciones" f) Gasto del Fondo de Reserva de Capital –Fondo de Iniciativas de Seguridad y Protec-
ción
RESUELTO que se autorice a la Junta de Educación a gastar una suma que no exceda $2,036,700 del Fondo Capital Reserve III: Safety and Protect Initiative establecido el 15 de mayo de 2018, con el fin de: reemplazar las ventanas originales existentes de las aulas en Eastplain Elementary School; reemplazar ventanas del patio y de la fachada norte en Plainedge High School, todo lo anterior incluye toda la mano de obra, materiales, equipos, aparatos y costes incidentales relacionados. Dado que los fondos que se gastarán en virtud de este documento proceden del Fondo de Reserva de Capital, la aprobación de esta propuesta no requerirá un gravamen sobre la propiedad inmobiliaria del distrito. Esta Proposición será independiente de la Proposición Nº 1.. g) Gasto del Fondo de Reserva de Capital – Mejoras de Instalaciones
tud de este documento proceden del Fondo de Reserva de Capital, la aprobación de esta propuesta no requerirá un gravamen sobre la propiedad inmobiliaria del distrito. Esta Proposición será independiente de la Proposición Nº 1.. h) Votación en general
QUEDA RESUELTO que la Aducción del Derecho de Educaciónautoriza la siguiente propuesta a ser presentada ante los votantes en la votación y elección anual del presupuesto del 19 de mayo de 2026: En todas las elecciones posteriores, las vacantes en la junta de educación no se considerarán cargos específicos separados y que las peticiones de nominación no describirán ninguna vacante específica en la junta de educación para el candidato que se nomine.
RESOLVIDO que se autorice a la Junta de Educación a gastar una suma que no exceda los 3.792.734 dólares del Fondo de Reserva Capital – Mejoras de Instalaciones establecidas el 21 de mayo de 2019, con el propósito de reemplazar la calefacción, ventilación y aire acondicionado de las aulas en la Escuela Primaria Eastplain ; ampliación del drenaje y pavimentación en Flower Road en Charles E. Schwarting; sustitución de roscas y cubiertas de escaleras, restauración del lugar, asfalto, hormigón y bordillos en Plainedge Middle School, todo lo anterior que incluye toda la mano de obra, materiales, equipos, aparatos y costes incidentales relacionados. Dado que los fondos que se gastarán en vir-
SE NOTIFICA que la Junta de Educación celebrará una audiencia pública el 12 de mayo, 2026, a las 19:30 en el instituto Plainedge situado en 241 Wyngate Drive, Massapequa, Nueva York, con el propósito de explicar el gasto de fondos y la elaboración presupuestaria por tanto relativa a la asignación de fondos necesarios para cubrir los gastos necesarios de dicho Distrito escolar para el curso escolar 20262027.
SE EMITE UN AVISO de que la Junta de la Biblioteca celebrará una audiencia pública el 11 de mayo, 2026, a las 19:00 en la Biblioteca de Plainedge, situada en Hicksville Road, Massapequa, New York, con el propósito de discutir el gasto de fondos y la
Continued on next page a register for district meetings or elections to be held subsequent to May 219, 2026. Said register shall include (1) all qualified voters of the district who shall present themselves personally for registration, and (2) all previously qualified voters of the district who shall have been previously registered for any annual or special district meeting or election held or conducted at any time within the four calendar years 2022-2025 prior to preparation of said register.
April 22, 2026 —
Continued from previous page presupuestación por lo tanto relativa a la asignación de fondos necesarios para cubrir los gastos necesarios de dicha biblioteca para El curso escolar 2026-2027 en qué momento y en el que se ubican todas las personas interesadas en la materia los asuntos relacionados tendrán oportunidad de ser escuchados.
TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que se celebrarán la reunión anual y la elección votando propuestas y candidatos en máquinas de votación el 19 de mayo de 2026, comenzando a las 6:00 de la mañana y terminando a las 21:00.
Y TAMBIÉN SE AVISA que una copia del estado de cuenta de la cantidad de dinero que será necesario para el año siguiente para fines escolares (presupuesto escolar) excluyendo cualquier contribuyente podrá obtener fondos públicos y copias de propuestas a votar en el distrito durante los catorce (14) días inmediatamente anteriores a la reunión anual, excepto sábados, domingos o festivos, en cada escuela donde se mantenga la escuela durante el horario de 8:00 a 16:00 El mencionado estado presupuestario deberá contener la cantidad de dinero que se pagará a la Biblioteca del Distrito Escolar de Plainedge por los servicios bibliotecarios durante el año a partir del 1 de julio de 2026. Un informe de exención de impuestos sobre bienes inmuebles elaborado de acuerdo con La Sección 495 de la Ley del Impuesto sobre la Propiedad Inmobiliaria será an-
exada a cualquier preliminar o provisional así como el presupuesto final adoptado del que formará parte; y será publicado en Tablón de anuncios del distrito mantenido(s) para avisos públicos, así como en la página web del Distrito.
POR FAVOR, TOME NOTA de que las nominaciones para el cargo de miembro de la Junta de Educación y el cargo de miembro de la Junta de la Biblioteca, serán nombrados mediante petición suscrito por al menos veintinueve (29) votantes cualificados del Distrito, indicando la residencia de cada firmante y el nombre y residencia del candidato. La petición de nominación para el la oficina de miembro de la Junta de Educación también dirá la vacante específica en el Junta de Educación para la que el candidato sea nominado, cuya descripción incluirá en al menos la duración del mandato del cargo y el nombre del último titular, si es que lo hay. Nadie deberán ser nominados para más de un cargo separado. La petición de nominación debe presentarse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito entre las 9:00 y las 17:00 horas no más tarde luego el 20 de abril de 2026.
Y TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que la Junta de Registro de este distrito escolar se reunirá en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito en la Oficina del Distrito de Plainedge, según lo establecido en este aviso de reunión, entre las 15:00 y las 19:00 del 14 de mayo de 2026 con el fin de Preparar un registro de los votantes cualificados con derecho a voto en la reunión y elección escolar para el cual dicho registro se prepara según lo previsto en la Sección
2014 del Código de Educación Derecho. En este momento, cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre sea incluido en dicho registro siempre que en dicha reunión de la Junta de Registro, se le conozca, se demuestre ante el satisfacción de la Junta de Registro, para entonces o posteriormente tener derecho a voto en el Anuario Elección distrital para la que se prepara dicho registro. El registro de votantes para la reunión escolar anual 2026-2027 y la elección también deberá se celebrará en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito en el edificio administrativo de Plainedge a partir de las 9:00 De la mañana a las 15:30 los días en que hay clase. Dicho registro no tendrá menos lugar que cinco días antes de la reunión escolar y la elección. El registro así preparado será archivado en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito, y dicho registro estará abierto para inspección en cada uno de los cinco (5) días previos al día fijado para la votación del presupuesto y la elección, entre el horas de las 8:00 y las 16:00, excepto el sábado, cuando estará disponible con cita previa solo entre las 10:00 y las 12:00 PM.
Y TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que una persona tendrá derecho a votar en el anuario reunión y elección quién es ciudadano de los Estados Unidos, tiene dieciocho años, es residente de el distrito escolar durante un periodo de treinta días antes de la elección se ofrece a votar y Registrado para votar en dicha elección. Una persona será registrada para votar si tiene Registrado permanentemente en la Junta Electoral del Condado de Nassau o en la es-
cuela
Junta de Registro del Distrito. Solo tendrán derecho a las personas que vayan a estar registradas Votar.
Y SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que la Junta de Registro se reunirá durante las horas de votación en la Asamblea Anual de Distrito y la Elección del 19 de mayo de 2026, en el Colegio electoral en el distrito electoral con el fin de preparar un registro para el distrito reuniones o elecciones que se celebrarán después del 219 de mayo de 2026. Dicho registro incluirá (1) todos los votantes cualificados del distrito que se presenten personalmente para su registro, y (2) todos los votantes previamente calificados del distrito que hayan estado previamente registrados para cualquier reunión anual o especial de distrito o elección celebrada o realizada en cualquier momento dentro del Cuatro años naturales 2022-2025 antes de la preparación de dicho registro.
POR FAVOR, TOME
NOTA de que la elección se celebrará conforme con la Ley de Educación y las Normas para la Celebración de Reuniones y Elecciones adoptadas por la Junta de Educación.
POR FAVOR, TOME MÁS NOTA de que se deba plantear cualquier propuesta o pregunta En las máquinas de votación deberán presentarse por escrito mediante petición suscrita por al menos setenta y dos (72) votantes cualificados del distrito y se presentaron en la Oficina del Secretario de la Distrito entre las 9:00 y las 17:00 horas a más tardar el 20 de abril de 2026. Esto la regla no se aplicará a aquellas preguntas
o proposiciones que deben expresarse en el Aviso publicado o publicado de la reunión o a aquellas proposiciones o preguntas, que el La Junta de Educación tiene autoridad para presentar en cualquier reunión anual o extraordinaria del distrito.
POR FAVOR, TOME NOTA de que las solicitudes de papeletas de voto por correo para el Se puede solicitar la votación del presupuesto escolar y la elección de los miembros de la junta en la oficina de laSecretario del distrito. Dichas solicitudes deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito como no más tarde de treinta (30) días antes de las elecciones. Además, dicha solicitud debe ser recibida por el Distrito Secretario al menos siete días antes de la elección si la papeleta debe enviarse al votante, o el mismo día antes de la elección si la papeleta debe entregarse personalmente al votante o a su designado agente. Al recibir una solicitud oportuna de una papeleta de voto por correo enviada por correo, el Secretario del Distrito Envía la papeleta por correo a la dirección indicada en la solicitud a más tardar seis (6) días antes de la Votar. No se consultará ninguna papeleta de votante por correo a menos que haya sido recibida en la oficina de el Secretario del Distrito no más tarde de las 17:00 horas (hora vigente) el día de las elecciones. POR FAVOR, TOME MÁS ATENCIÓN que los votantes militares que no lo están actualmenteLos registrados pueden solicitar registrarse como votantes cualificados del distrito escolar. Votantes militares que Si los votantes cualificados del distrito escolar pueden
presentar una solicitud para una papeleta militar. Los votantes militares pueden designar una preferencia para recibir un registro de votante militar, military Solicitud de papeleta o papeleta militar por correo, transmisión por fax o correo electrónico en su solicitud de dicho registro, solicitud de papeleta o papeleta. Formularios de registro de votantes militares y los formularios de solicitud de papeleta militar deben recibirse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito de la distrito escolar a más tardar a las 17:00 horas del 23 de abril de 2026. No se consultará ninguna papeleta military a menos que (1) se reciba en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito antes del cierre de las urnas el Día de las elecciones y mostrando una marca de cancelación del Servicio Postal de los Estados Unidos o un extranjero el servicio postal del país, o mostrar una avalación fechada de recibo por otra agencia del gobierno de Estados Unidos; o (2) recibido por la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar en a las 17:00 horas del día de las elecciones y firmado y fechado por el votante militar y un testigo de los mismos, con una fecha que no es posterior al día anterior a las elecciones. Fechado: 19 de marzo de 2026 POR ORDEN DE LA JUNTA DE Massapequa, Nueva York EDUCACIÓN EN PLAINEDGE DISTRITO ESCOLAR UNION FREE MUNICIPIO DE OYSTER BAY CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK NOREEN GREENE SECRETARIO DE DISTRITO 26-60 4/1, 15, 22, 5/6 Richner Communications, Inc. public notice rates will increase at a minimum of 9% for all notices published on or after May 1, 2026, to reflect rising production and distribution costs. To place a public notice contact 516-569-4000 x232.
When someone stops advertising, someone stops selling. When someone stops selling, someone stops buying. When someone stops buying, someone stops making. When someone stops making, someone stops working. When someone stops working, someone stops earning. When someone stops earning, everything stops.
I don’t have a permit yet, but I do have an impatient contractor
Q. I have been through a year of permits. My architect warned me it could take this long, but I didn’t believe them. My neighbor did the same addition and told me it would only take a few weeks for a permit, but then I learned they didn’t even get permits, and I’m really wondering if I should have done the same thing. I follow your column and can now attest to what you’ve been saying. We had to get a zoning variance, and it took many, many months certainly not a few weeks. Now we’re right at the end, and I’ve been assured by the building department that we’re “almost there.” Funny thing is, I still don’t have a permit, and my contractor is ready to move on to another project if we don’t start now. Should I just get started, to keep my contractor, knowing I’ll have the permit soon, or will there be problems if I do?
A. Getting started ahead of having a permit in hand is problematic. A licensed professional should never advise someone to deviate from an ordinance, law or building code. This issue ties directly into my last two columns about the New York state campaign to “Let Them Build.” Delays are costly. Between fuel increases and tariffs, every day makes a difference when it comes to the cost of construction.
Building authorities won’t directly tell you that you could start without your permit, even if the permit is almost there. They do, however, have a method referred to as a “maintain” permit, where they recognize work that was already done and review it with an increased fee, in most cases. By doing so, they’re accommodating people to start construction without permits, even if they wouldn’t say so. It’s understandable that you feel you’re doing everything right, and shouldn’t be penalized for having done so, and therefore want to just start, already.
When you look over at your neighbor’s home, you may be compelled to follow their example, but remember, they, or some owner of that property in the future, will still have to file with building plans, even after the fact. When that happens, the building codes may have changed, or things that they did may not be compliant and will need reconstructing. This isn’t always the case, but when a professional is called to figure out what someone constructed and then to draw plans, after the fact, they find things that don’t always work out smoothly. It isn’t uncommon, when plans haven’t been reviewed and permitted, to find structure undersized, room sizes and ceiling heights smaller than allowed, not enough windows or the wrong-sized windows to meet light, ventilation and fire escape requirements, and more.
You’re doing this project the right way, and even though nobody will tell you that you can just start, there seem to be ways to condone your doing so.
Good luck!
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Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $35,360 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $35,360 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours
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Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250
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Three years ago this week, I had what I’ve called my “unexpected medical adventure.” As I described to readers then, it was a life-altering experience with a very good ending.
It all began innocuously enough, with a routine endoscopy for acid reflux in the summer of 2017 by my gastroenterologist, Dr. Michael Barth. As expected, the procedure turned up nothing, and Barth simply prescribed a medication, which I took regularly. Over the next few years, I had few symptoms, and put off my fiveyear follow-up endoscopy.
Finally, at Barth’s insistence, I scheduled another endoscopy in March 2023. I had no concern. Just closing the loop. Just another test guys my age go through. Imagine my surprise when I woke up from the procedure and Barth told me that he’d found a protrusion in my stomach wall. While he thought it was benign, he recommended that I see Dr. Arvino Trini-
dade, a specialist at Northwell, who scheduled a biopsy at Long Island Jewish hospital.
Melissa Zimmerman, a retired Nassau County Police Department detective who’d been on my security detail when I was in Congress, offered to drive me and Rosemary to the hospital. Before I was taken into the operating room, Trinidade told me he thought there was nothing there. But when I woke up, he told me there was a tumor, and it was probably malignant. Four days later, Barth and Trinidade called to confirm it. But they were confident of a good outcome, and told me the surgery would be done at LIJ by Dr. Matthew Weiss, a premier cancer surgeon.
iWABC-AM studios in Manhattan and attended a political dinner at King Umberto’s in Elmont. I told almost nobody about the upcoming surgery. With a day to go, I began a liquid diet, with Jell-O being the closest thing to solid food.
’ve become more aware of those who receive more severe diagnoses than mine.
That afternoon, Weiss called and told me I should be confident of complete success. He casually told me to “enjoy the weekend.” That evening, Rosemary and I had dinner at an Italian restaurant in Manhattan with Zimmerman and her husband, Lance.
The following week, I had appointments at Northwell, saw my cardiologist in Manhattan to get his sign-off on the operation, did several radio shows at the
Early Monday morning, Zimmerman again drove us to the hospital. By 6:30 I was ready for showtime. Lying on a gurney with an intravenous tube in my arm, I was wheeled into the operating room, a science fiction-style enclosure crowded with doctors, nurses, bright lights and a table filled with knives and scissors. An epidural was painlessly inserted in my spine, and an anesthesia mask placed over my face.
The next thing I knew, I was in the recovery room, and Rosemary was telling me that Weiss said that all had gone well. I had no significant pain — unless I moved or reached for something. Each day the pain receded, and I was able to walk a little more. When I was discharged the following Saturday, I walked from the hospital to the car.
At home I was able to eat regularly, felt nothing more than soreness at the
incision site and, after a week or so, was outside, walking a few more blocks each day. As the doctors had predicted, all follow-up tests showed complete success. I recounted much of this to readers at the time. Now, having had three years to reflect and put it all in perspective, I appreciate more than ever how fortunate I’ve been: Barth urging me to get the “routine” endoscopy; Trindade and Weiss being ultimate professionals; and having strong family support from Rosemary; my son, Sean; my daughter, Erin; and my sister, Barbara, who’s a nurse. There were also the friends who took the time to visit me in the hospital or call to wish me luck.
I’ve also become increasingly aware of the many people who receive much more severe diagnoses than I had, which do not end well. I was also fortunate to have access to outstanding medical care at a first-rate hospital. (To the naysayers and critics, I didn’t have any congressional or federal health insurance.) I’m also grateful that I broke loose from the traditional Irish suspicion and distrust of doctors and hospitals.
Yes, I’m a lucky guy!
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
These nearly two months of war in Iran have me, and countless others, more on edge than we have ever been. The idea that a conflict in the Middle East could become World War III is very unsettling. When a war is that far away and the parties themselves have a long history of bickering, our lives become unsettled, and we need diversions.
To blot out the talking heads on Fox, MS Now and CNN, I found myself looking for other distractions beyond my work as a government-affairs specialist. I watched some sports events, tuning to NCAA baskeball’s Final Four, hoping to relax. To my surprise, those games could ruin your sleep if you watched every upset. I was rooting for St. John’s, and when the junior point guard Dylan Darling sank a driving, buzzer-beating layup to beat Kansas and send the Red Storm to their first Sweet 16 in 27 years,
I almost fell off my chair.
A lot of the other games had surprise endings, and when the final ended with a Michigan victory, I realized that watching the tournament wasn’t the best way to avoid nail-biting. So I turned to other sports, and anything that would distract me from all the news about the Israelis killing Iranian leaders one by one. I got some initial relief watching a women’s pro hockey game between New York Sirens and the Seattle Torrent at Madison Square Garden. It was nice to watch a no-nonsense game that attracted a record crowd of 18,000 .
pages unnerved me, when he lavished praise on the recently ousted attorney general, Pam Bondi.
s t. John’s basketball. Women’s hockey. Testing Negative for Stupid — and more.
I also watched the women’s basketball national championship. There were quite a few nervous moments until the final game, when UCLA won its first national title.
Then I decided to do some casual reading, and started with Louisiana Sen. John Kennedy’s new book, titled “How to Test Negative for Stupid, And Why Washington Never Will.” Most of its 224 pages are a lot of fun, thanks to Kennedy’s folksy humor, but the last 30
Rather than move on to a new book, I turned my attention to my streaming television services, Netflix, Amazon and Hulu, in the hope of finding some feelgood movies. When I opened them up, they offered me such calming films as “Supernatural,” “Scream,” “Send Help,” “Sinners” and “The Substance.” I know there are other offerings, but most of the feel-good movies are old and I’ve already seen them. All my life, I’ve loved good comedy. I cherish the great old names like Jackie Mason, Henny Youngman, Buddy Hackett, Jerry Lewis, Jackie Gleason, George Carlin, Don Rickles and Lenny Bruce. Occasionally I stumble on one of these legends on Facebook, and try to share their comedy with people around me. Regrettably, there are no comedians these days that give me the same belly laughs that I got from those giants. My grandson in Los Angeles heads up a unit of Netflix that promotes a number of comedians, but I haven’t adapted to their new style.
So where do I go for some badly needed diversion? I’m a devout Knicks and Yankees fan, but there’s no way I can get a Knicks playoff ticket without paying big dollars. I love going to Yankees games, too, but their tickets are getting pricier, so I limit my purchases to no more than three games. I enjoy watching major golf tournaments, but sometimes you feel as if the announcers will put you to sleep with their commentary. I am looking forward to the U.S. Open in June, though.
Some of us are lucky to have hobbies that help us escape the pressures of today’s headlines. I love writing and making speeches, but neither lulls you into a peaceful state of mind. Short of moving to Antarctica, where I imagine you can avoid the daily news horrors, I’ll keep trying to find some other relaxing activity. I still watch TV for the weather reports, but goodbye to the other channels.
Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He currently chairs the Capitol Insight Group, a government relations firm. Comments? jkremer@liherald.com.
as spring returns and families stream back to neighborhood parks, playgrounds quickly reclaim their place as a focus of community life. They are where children test their limits, build confidence and simply enjoy being kids.
But beneath that joy lies a sobering reality: More than 200,000 children, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, are injured on playgrounds each year in the United States — many in ways that are preventable.
That’s why National Playground Safety Week, April 20-24, should be treated as more than a symbolic observance. It is a necessary prompt for parents, caregivers, schools and local officials to refocus on safety as playground use surges.
Playgrounds were never meant to be spaces for careless behavior. In fact, they were created with safety and development in mind. In the 19th century, educators such as Friedrich Fröbel promoted the idea of structured play as essential to childhood growth, helping to instill cooperation, coordination and social skills.
As cities grew more crowded and streets more dangerous with the rise of motor vehicles, playgrounds became protected environments where children could play away from traffic and other hazards. Early efforts by civic groups and park advocates helped establish designated play areas as a public safety measure — a mission that still resonates today.
The strength of our community comes from open dialogue.
The strength of our community comes from open dialogue.
We invite residents to submit letters to the editor on issues affecting our neighborhoods, schools, businesses and local government.
The strength of our community comes from open dialogue. We invite residents to submit letters to the editor on issues affecting our neighborhoods, schools, businesses and local government.
In the U.S., the Outdoor Recreation League funded the building of playgrounds on parkland after newspapers reported on the high number of children run down by cars in New York. One of the first recreational areas in America was built in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park in 1887.
Yet even within these safer spaces, risks remain — especially after months of winter wear and limited use. Equipment may have loosened, surfaces can degrade, and aging structures may no longer meet modern safety standards. The playgrounds’ young users, meanwhile, return with pent-up energy, eager to climb higher and move faster than conditions safely allow. Caregivers often distracted by cell phones only add to the challenge.
Preventing injuries doesn’t require diminishing the joy of play, but does require managing the environment around it. The National Program for Play Area Safety is a nonprofit organization that emphasizes practical, researchbased strategies that communities can adopt. Chief among them is active, attentive supervision. Its “ABC” model — Anticipating hazards, Behaving in ways that guide safe play and Considering the unique needs of each playground — makes clear that safety is not passive. It is intentional.
The program builds on a 30-year initiative started at the University of Northern Iowa to help communities and organizations ensure safe, high-quality
playgrounds. It promotes best practices grounded in research, guidelines and standards while collaborating with agencies at the local, state, national and international levels.
Equally important is age-appropriate design. When younger children use equipment meant for older users, the risk of falls and misuse increases. Clear guidance and thoughtful layout can help families make safer choices without limiting exploration.
Communities must also prioritize proper surfacing and regular inspections, particularly in early spring. What lies beneath a child’s feet can determine whether a fall results in a minor scrape or a serious injury.
Safety extends further still. Accessibility ensures that all children can benefit from outdoor play, while attention to thermal comfort — such as shaded areas and heat-safe materials — helps protect children from high temperatures.
National Playground Safety Week offers a timely reminder, but it should also serve as a starting point. The original purpose of playgrounds — to give children a safe place to grow, learn and play — demands ongoing attention.
A quick inspection, a watchful eye and a renewed awareness can go a long way. With thoughtful action at the start of the season, communities can ensure that playgrounds remain what they were always meant to be: spaces of safe discovery, not preventable harm.
We invite residents to submit letters to the editor on issues affecting our neighborhoods, schools, businesses and local government.
Letters must include your name and contact information for verification. Send lettters to execeditor@liherald.com
Letters must include your name and contact information for verification. Send lettters to execeditor@liherald.com
Be heard. Be part of the conversation.
Letters must include your name and contact information for verification. Send lettters to execeditor@liherald.com
Be heard. Be part of the conversation.
Be heard. Be part of the conversation.
Long Island’s “hidden workforce” of family caregivers faces very visible challenges. The term is frequently used to describe family caregivers who, while not employed by our health care system, play a critical role in it. They don’t wear uniforms or ID badges, but this massive workforce of more than 329,000 Long Islanders provides over 307 million hours of unpaid care, valued at $5.7 billion, per year, according to AARP New York data released in February.
Nationally, nearly one in four American adults provided ongoing care to an adult or child with a complex medical condition or disability in the past year, a 2025 report, by AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving, found. Almost 25 percent of those people reported giving more than 40 hours of care per week, the equivalent of a full-time job, for free. Taking on the unpaid labor of love of caring for a family member can be both extremely rewarding and enormously straining. Emotionally, caregivers may struggle with stress, anxiety, guilt and social isolation. Physically, they may
increase their own health risks with the stress and exhaustion of helping loved ones with daily activities they can no longer manage alone.
Financially, that can cause hardships such as reduced work hours, loss of employment or new debt to cover care-related expenses, especially for middleaged people balancing their caregiving responsibilities with the demands of jobs and raising children.
Like all workers, family caregivers need breaks, but they frequently forgo their own needs to prioritize someone else’s. Repeatedly making this sacrifice, while well-intended, is ultimately detrimental for both them and their loved ones. Self-care is a necessity, not a luxury.
w
hen it comes to caregiving, Rosalynn Carter couldn’t have said it better.
The workload is even greater for the 60,000-plus Long Island families caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related illness. Roughly 80 percent of people living with dementia receive care at home, primarily from unpaid family members. Along with assisting with medication management, bathing, dressing, transportation, meal preparation and financial oversight, dementia family caregivers also face unique challenges caused by the disease’s impact on a person’s memory, behavior and independence. Sufferers may forget who their loved ones are, manifest personality changes like agitation, aggression and hallucinations, and wander from safety. Their caregivers face higher risks of anxiety, depression, burnout and declining quality of life.
Framework by Tim Baker
One of the most important things caregivers can do is take advantage of support resources. The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America offers free caregiver support groups at its AFA Barbara Rabinowitz Education & Resource Center in Amityville, where people caring for loved ones with dementia can connect and share with others who are going through similar experiences. Caregivers can learn more and register by calling the Center at (631) 223-4000. AFA also has a free Helpline — (866) 232-8484 — that provides caregiver support seven days a week.
Nassau and Suffolk counties’ Offices for the Aging are available to provide support and guidance to family caregivers about local, state and federal assistance programs. Local nonprofit organizations, libraries and religious institutions often have caregiver services available, which can include support groups, educational and training pro-
grams or financial assistance.
Finally, don’t be afraid, reluctant or embarrassed to ask for, or accept, help. Seeking help is a sign of neither weakness nor failure; it is an essential step toward sustaining the ability to care for a loved one. Other relatives or friends are often eager to help but don’t know exactly how; embrace these offers and explain specific things that would be helpful, such as spending time with the person so you can run errands, assisting with meals or providing transportation. Offering options allows the volunteer to decide what they are comfortable doing, while ensuring that it’s something that will be helpful.
If you know someone who’s a family caregiver, check in on them periodically and offer your help. Seemingly little things can make an enormous difference.
Former first lady Rosalynn Carter, a lifelong caregiver advocate, once said, “There are only four kinds of people in the world: those who have been caregivers, those who are caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers.” Her words reinforce the crucial need to support and prioritize Long Island’s “hidden workforce” that all of us will either be part of or depend on one day.
Charles J. Fuschillo Jr. is president and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America and a Merrick resident.
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