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Tyler Byrnes and Massapequa captured Nassau and Long Island Class A boys lacrosse championships in dominant fashion over Syosset and Sachem North, respectively. Story, more photos, page 6.

Amityville School Distict asking the NYS Commissioner of Education to conduct recount

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

The Amityville School District is asking the New York State commissioner of education to conduct a recount of the school board election results from May 19.

While the district does not anticipate that the review will change the results announced on election

night, Superintendent Gina Talbert said the district wants to “ensure accuracy and integrity of the election process.”

In a letter to the community announcing the decision, Talbert said that as the district was preparing the official post-election documents, an error in the tabulation process was discovered.

“At this time while the final vote totals may dif-

State lawmakers look to pass transparency act

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

New York State lawmakers are calling for passage of a law that would require businesses to release security footage to police investigating a crime within 24 hours of their request. The proposed measure, called the Edeedson “Joshy” Cine, Jr. Transparency Act, is in the name of 23-year-old Josh Cine who was stabbed to death during a robbery at the CVS pharmacy on Montauk Highway in Lindenhurst on Christmas Day, 2025. Suffolk County Police investigators negotiated with CVS officials for the tapes for 18 hours before the company agreed to release them.

“In the immediate aftermath of a violent crime, an investigator’s focus needs to be on identifying a suspect rather than negotiating to secure footage of the incident,” said New York State Sen. Monica R. Martinez (D-4th), referring to the delay.

The difficulty police had in getting the tapes pointed to the lack of any clear and decisive legislation that requires that businesses release the tapes, said Martinez who called the press conference.

Currently private companies are not required to hand over surveil-

Edeedson “Joshy” Cine Jr., who was killed during a robbery on Christmas Day 2025

lance footage without a warrant or subpoena, and there are no repercussions for delays or a failure to comply.

New York State Assemblyman Kwani O’Pharrow (D-11th) who attended the conference and sponsored the measure in the Assembly, said it has received wide-

Paul Grassini/Herald

Where did that Dog get Baby Blue Eyes? There’s more than genetics involved

Dogs with blue eyes are stunning. There are four ways a dog can have blue eyes. One is genetic while the other three are linked to pigment loss in their coat. Below are the four ways:

Pets, Pets, Pets...

Merle Gene- a coat pattern often seen in Collies, Shelties, and Australian Shepherds (aka Aussies)- is the most common reason. Merle dilutes random parts of a dog’s pigment – including the nose and eyes – and causes the blue color in their iris. Because of this, “merle dogs” often have “butterfly” pattern noses as well as completely blue, split, or wall eyes.

JOANNE ANDERSON

Split eyes describe when the eye has some blue in it while the rest is brown or amber. Wall eyes appear when one eye is completely blue and the other is completely brown or amber. A dog with one dose of the merle gene will show effects such as scattered spots of missing pigment – which includes the iris. Dogs with two doses of the merle gene are often deaf and can have other health problems.

White around the eyes-These dogs have a significant amount of white around their eyes. White areas on a dog’s coat indicates the cells cannot produce pigment. When on the face, there could be pigment loss in the nose and in the eyes – causing the eyes to be blue and the nose to the pink. This is often seen in dapple Dachshunds, harlequin (white & black) Great Danes and southern Cattle Dogs also known as “Blue Heelers”.

Albinos- “White Dobermans” have an extremely light coat, blue eyes, and a completely pink nose. They are thought to be a form of albinism.

Separate Gene- Certain breeds inherit a specific gene unaffected by coat color. The rare gene sometimes appears in Border Collies, Shelties, Aussies, and Dalmatians but is mainly seen in Siberian Huskies which can either have one blue eye or two – no matter what their coat color is.

This November 2018 National Geographic had an article about the largest study ever to explore this Husky gene that can cause blue-eyed dogs. The research was first published in the journal PLOS Genetics by Adam Boyko and Aaron Sams of Embark Veterinary, Inc.

The scientists evaluated the DNA of more than 6,000 dogs whose owners bought DNA test kits to confirm or identify their dogs’ breeds and explore their potential risk of health conditions. Owners participated in an online survey and shared photos of their dogs. Researchers found that a genetic change, or mutation, near a gene on canine chromosome 18 is strongly associated with blue eyes in Siberian Huskies.

Geneticist Kristopher Irizarry of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Western University pointed out- in the other breeds like Old English and Welsh Corgis, blue eyes are inherited as a recessive trait which means two copies –one from each

parent – are necessary for blue eyes to appear. Any puppy, purebred or mixed, can inherit two recessive genes and have blue eyes even though neither parent is blueeyed.

The mutated gene in Siberians seems to produce less pigment for the eye. This trait need not be recessive in Huskies. Only one Husky parent needs to contribute the mutant gene. A lack of pigment causes Huskies’ eyes to appear blue.

For Adoption at Last Hope Animal Rescue Adoption Center, 3300 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh 11793: Daisy is a one-year-old miniDoberman with natural ears and tail. She is a cuddle bug. Betty Sue is a happy Basset mix four-month-old puppy with clean-yourpaintbrush tan streaks on her snout. Call 631-946-9528 for more information, In the photo: This Husky has one blue eye and one amber eye which is called wall eye.

STRAWBERRY

Daisy 1-year-old mini-Dobie

Betty Sue 4-month-old Basset mix puppy

Massapequa HS athletes celebrate college commitments on National Decision Day

As seniors across the country marked National Decision Day on May 1, 28 student-athletes at Massapequa High School gathered in the auditorium to celebrate their plans to continue competing at the collegiate level.

The spring college signing ceremony recognized athletes from a variety of sports, including baseball, softball, cheerleading, cross country, track and field, dance, football, soccer, swimming, volleyball and wrestling. The students will attend colleges and universities on Long Island, throughout New York State and across the country.

Superintendent William Brennan, Principal Barbara Lowell, Interim Director of Physical Education, Health, Athletics and Recreation Matt McLees, and Physical Education and Athletics Chairperson Brian Rath offered congratulatory remarks during the ceremony.

“This is something to be very proud of,” McLees told the athletes, noting that their achievement reflects determination, perseverance and leadership.

The students recognized during the ceremony were:

Baseball: Justin Graham, SUNY Oswego; Valentino Melissinos, Saint Joseph’s College of Maine; Nicholaos Samaras, University of Mount Saint Vincent.

Softball: Juliana Muscara, SUNY Geneseo.

Cheerleading: Sophia Park, Tulane University.

Cross Country/Track and Field: Kevin Drury, University of New Haven; Connor Francis Glennon, SUNY Delhi; Keira McLaughlin, Molloy University; Emma Villalta, Bryant University.

Dance: Mia Cerciello and Kaelyn Hanley, Sacred Heart University; Andraya Dulanto and Brayden Morris, University of Massachusetts Amherst; Nicolette Impellizzieri, St. John’s University; Nadia

Ivancich and Kaitlyn Kopp, Quinnipiac University.

Football: Tristan Tarasi, Springfield College; Cole Villalta, Saint Anselm College.

Men’s Soccer: Joseph D’Amico, St. Joseph’s University; Phillip Fiorentino, Molloy University; Jeremy Velez, Utica

University.

Women’s Soccer: Hayden Murphy, Farmingdale State College.

Swimming: Victoria Ehrhardt, Hamilton College.

Men’s Volleyball: Jake McBride, Hartwick College; Jack Stanley, Springfield College.

Women’s Volleyball: Victoria O’Neill, Springfield College.

Wrestling: Joseph Brooks, SUNY Cortland; James Mulhern, LIU Post. School officials congratulated the student-athletes on their accomplishments as they prepare to begin the next chapter of their academic and athletic careers.

Plainedge Flag Football players bring pride to district

Plainedge Flag Football standout Madison Crandon has been selected to participate in the USA Football Select Bowl, marking a significant milestone in her athletic career.

Crandon earned her place in the national development event after competing among some of the top rising flag football athletes in the country. The Select Bowl serves as one of the sport’s premier talent identification platforms, bringing together elite players from across the United States to train, compete, and perform in front of National Team scouts and coaches as part of the Team USA pathway.

The event will take place in Los Angeles, California, this June.

Plainedge Flag Football officials expressed pride in Crandon’s achievement and noted her continued commitment to the program.

“We are so proud of you, Madison,” the program shared. “Keep representing with hard work, heart, and Plainedge pride.”

Crandon’s participation will be closely followed as she advances to the national stage this summer.

Ponticello Selected for 2026 Stars & States Event

Plainedge Flag Football’s Gianna Ponticello has been selected to compete in the 2026 Stars & States event, a nationallevel 5v5 flag football competition featuring top emerging athletes and coaches

from across the country.

The event includes boys and girls divisions representing regions such as California, Texas, Florida, and the TriState area, and is structured as a national championship-style showcase. Athletes will participate in multiple days of competition, along with skills challenges, practices, team meetings, and developmental activities.

The program also provides exposure

opportunities for athletes through coaching development sessions, national scouting presence, and college coach visibility.

Ponticello will travel to Los Angeles, California, this month to compete at the event.

Plainedge Flag Football highlighted the selection as a point of pride for the program and community, noting excitement in following her journey on the national stage.

State parks to host annual Jones Beach volleyball tournament

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation will host the 48th Annual Jones Beach Volleyball Tournament on July 18 at Jones Beach State Park.

The tournament will feature four-player co-ed teams and will begin at 9 a.m. on the volleyball courts at Central Mall Field 4. Organizers said teams are guaranteed to play seven games, and the top two teams from each round-robin bracket will advance to quarterfinal matches.

Cash prizes will be awarded to the firstand second-place teams. The third- and fourth-place teams will receive merchandise prizes.

Registration is free and will remain open until the roster is full. Players must be at least 14 years old to participate. Organizers said players under age 18 must submit a parent or guardian waiver.

The tournament is sponsored by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the Natural Heritage Trust. Contributors include SUNY Farmingdale and local radio stations 102.3 WBAB and 106.1 WBLI.

For more information, call the Long Island Regional Recreation Department at (631) 321-3510 or Jones Beach State Park at (516) 785-1600.

Courtesy Massapequa school district

CRIME WATCH

The following incidents have been reported by the Nassau County Police Department and other law enforcement and emergency service units: LARCENIES

Massapequa: Police report that someone removed an assortment of items from a vehicle that was parked on Huron Avenue.

That incident occurred between midnight May 31 and 6 p.m., June 1.

ARRESTS - Shoplifting

Nassau Police arrested and charged Travis Toomer, 35 of Farmingdale with shoplifting at Walgreen’s, 918 Main St., South Farmingdale June 3. The arrest was made at 3 p.m.

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.

Self Help/Crisis Hotlines

Residential Program: Beacon House

Short-term, long-term and transitional housing is provided throughout Long Island in 58 group homes, emergency shelters, and select single-family residences. Those eligible include homeless veterans, veterans with families, veterans and nonveterans with substance abuse and mental health issues, women in need of supportive housing, and those living with HIV/AIDS. Every veteran resident has access to intensive case management, transportation and daily living essentials. For assistance, call 631 665-1571.

Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation

•Maryhaven Center of Hope-New Hope 24hr. substance abuse crisis center: 516-5467070; maryhaven.chsli.org/new-hope •N.C. Drug & Alcohol Hotline: 516-227-8255

America’s

250th

•LI Crisis Center: 516-679-1111

••AA Meetings Nassau County: For More Information on meetings and times call 866-504-6974 or go to findrecovery.com/aa_ meetings/ny/nassau-county/ Domestic Violence

N.C. Coalition Against Domestic Violence Crisis services for victims of domestic violence, rape and sexual assault; group/individual counseling for adults and children; bilingual court advocacy; legal consultation and representation; safe emergency housing; elder abuse services; referrals and systems advocacy; community education. Eligibility criteria: Nassau County residents or non-residents seeking safe housing in Nassau. Call 516-572-0700; 24hour hotline is 516 542-0404.

anniversary at Sagtikos Manor

Judge Isaac Thompson, owner of Sagtikos Manor and a magistrate of the Crown, permitted General Clinton and British forces to use the Manor as temporary quarters during the Revolutionary War. While many residents who refused to swear loyalty to the British Crown fled the area, Isaac Thompson and his family remained in Islip. Why did they choose to stay?

Following the American victory, George Washington embarked on his national tour to visit those who had contributed to the success of the Revolution. On April 21, 1790, Washington spent the night at Sagtikos Manor. Why did he choose Sagtikos? And what role, if any, did Isaac Thompson play in the Patriot cause? Are you a Loyalist? The British 23rd

Woman charged with murder in fatal Massapequa stabbing

A 22-year-old Massapequa woman has been charged with murder in connection with the fatal stabbing of a 28-year-old man inside a Massapequa home on June 1, Nassau County police said.

Kristin Sculley, of 104 Chester Ave., was charged with second-degree murder in that incident. She was scheduled to be arraigned at First District Court in Hempstead.

chael Carragher Jr. unconscious with a stab wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene by a Nassau County police medic.

Following an investigation, detectives arrested Sculley. The investigation remains ongoing.

Police closed Beaumont Avenue between Dover and Polo roads that morning as detectives processed the scene.

Royal Fusiliers will be questioning you on whether you signed the Oath of Loyalty to the King of England. Or are you a patriot?

The Culper Spy Ring will be on hand to make sure you understand what freedom from England means.

These and other questions will be answered at the Sagtikos Manor Historical Society’s event on Sunday, June 14 as the society recognizes the country’s 250th anniversary.

The event is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; admission is $15 for adults and children between 5 and 12 years old, $8. The Manor is at 677 West Montauk Hwy., West Bay Shore.

For more information call 631-854- 0939 or go to sagtikosmanor.org

Police responded to a home on Beaumont Avenue after receiving a 911 call at about 1:30 a.m. and found the victim, 28-year-old Robert Mi-

Crime scene investigators, ambulances and other emergency personnel responded to the area.

—Carolyn James

Two men rescued from waters in Massapequa

Two men were rescued by Oyster Bay Town and Nassau County emergency service units after their jet ski grounded near Little Goose Island in Massapequa Tuesday, June 2.

Nassau Police reported that the rescue occurred at 8:27 p.m., after police received a 911 call for a jet skier in distress. Nassau County Aviation Helicopter 6, Nassau County Marine 6 and Oys -

ter Bay Town Constables responded. Helicopter 6 used a spotlight to locate the 2024 Sea Doo jet ski with the two riders.

Police said the jet ski struck the ground and become disabled. The riders were not injured and were safely transported to Treasure Island Marina in Hempstead. The jet ski was towed to the same location, said police.

Courtesy NCPD Kristin Sculley

HERALD SPORTS

Massapequa rolls to boys lacrosse title

By DYLAN BUTLER sports@liherald.com

The bus ride from Massapequa to Hofstra’s Shuart Stadium wasn’t a long one, but it was meaningful.

The Massapequa boys’ lacrosse team watched the first quarter of their overtime loss to Syosset back on May 15, viewing all the mistakes made in a game coach Kevin Catalano called the “worst of the season.”

“The main thing that we were preaching in the pregame huddle was that we had to come out fast,” he said. “We had to throw the first punch and just continue to battle the rest of the night, and they really showed up.”

Second-seeded Massapequa was shot out of a cannon, racing out to a nine-goal halftime lead en route to a 19-5 win over top-seeded Syosset in the Nassau Class A championship game June 2.

The Chiefs cruised to a second straight county title and the 13th in the program’s history.

From the worst game to the best game of the season.

“I think from top to bottom the guys really obviously left it all out there on the field and executed the game plan perfectly,” Catalano said. “We made a couple of adjustments going into it after the first one, and they really did a good job top to bottom.”

One of those adjustments was defensively, where sophomore Casey Gilchrist was moved back to longstick midfield to cause havoc in the middle of the field and on the faceoff wings, while senior Justin Farrell was given the responsibility to defend Brody Waxer.

In a meeting of future Michigan teammates, Farrell held Waxer scoreless. Waxer had seven goals in

the first meeting, a 13-12 overtime victory for Syosset.

“I think Justin’s an absolute beast,” junior attackman Nolan Wieczorek said. “He’s one of my best friends. He’s one of the nicest kids on the team, but he’s definitely a mean kid on the field.”

With junior Ryan Chabus winning 18 of 26 faceoffs, Massapequa’s high-octane, Division I attack hummed. Junior Rocco Spallina (Penn) had six goals and one assist, UMass commit Tyler Byrnes had five goals and one assist, and Wieczorek (Richmond) had three goals and five assists.

“This is our third year altogether on the attack line, so we’re definitely just honing in on that chemistry that we have together and just using it to our advantage, communicating, just carrying each other, leadership from Tyler, from Rocco, just the whole team is coming together, and it’s looking nice,” Wieczorek said.

After Gio Accardo gave Syosset (16-3) an early lead, Massapequa went on a five-goal spurt, capped by a man-up goal by Byrnes, to take a 5-1 lead. The Chiefs closed out the second quarter on a 6-0 run and took a commanding 11-2 lead into halftime on Spallina’s fifth goal of the first half.

Byrnes’ fifth goal, off an assist from younger brother Jake, gave Massapequa a 12-goal lead, resulting in a running clock in the fourth quarter.

Massapequa continued its roll with a convincing 19-6 win over Sachem North in the Long Island Class A championship game last Saturday at Stony Brook University. A year ago, the Chiefs fell in a heartbreaker to Half Hollow Hills.

“We made it there last year, and we’re just trying to make it further every single year and end with our eventual goal, which is the state championship,” Wieczorek said.

Paul Grassini/Herald photos Massapequa avenged a regular-season defeat to Syosset in the Nassau Class A title game, rolling to a 19-5 victory.

Junior Ryan Chabus won 18 of 26 faceoffs to help the Chiefs dominate possession against Syosset.

HERALD SPORTS

The Chiefs rallied to win the Nassau Class AAA title after dropping Game 1 to Oceanside and went on to repeat as Long Island champs.

Massapequa tops Oceanside for repeat title

By TONY BELLISSIMO

sports@liherald.com

Dropping three straight games to Oceanside didn’t faze defending Nassau and Long Island Class AAA softball champion Massapequa.

The Chiefs, who fell twice to the Sailors during the regular season and dropped the best-of-three county championship series opener Sunday, stayed alive with a wild come-from-behind victory in Game 2 Monday and kept the momentum going in Wednesday’s third and deciding game for a repeat.

Senior Samantha Dolan went 3-for-4 with five RBIs, sophomore Sienna Erker scored three runs and senior pitcher Alexa O’Mallon scattered five hits while working around six errors as No. 2 Massapequa squeaked past top-seeded Oceanside, 7-6, for its fifth county title in six years.

“Every time we play Oceanside, it’s back-and-forth and always seems to come down to the last inning,” Massapequa coach Christina Castellani said. “We’ve been able to overcome adversity all season. These girls just battle and battle. I’m super proud of them.”

The Chiefs (19-9) defended their L.I. crown last Saturday when beat Sachem North , 7-5, at Martha Avenue Field in Bellport thanks in large part to Alexandra Dodick’s pinch-hit three-run homer. Oceanside finished 22-5, losing its last two following a 15-game winning streak.

“It was a special season with an amazing group of players,” Oceanside coach Carlo Quagliata said. “I will forever be proud of these girls.” Erker, standout senior catcher Maeve Schiereck

and Dolan got Massapequa rolling and provided O’Mallon with a 5-0 cushion. In the top of the first and second, Dolan had two-run singles bringing home Erker and Schiereck.

“I had a tough time at the plate in the first two games and I’m glad today was different,” Dolan said. “They were pitching me inside, so I made an adjustment where I stood in the box and it really helped.”

The Sailors, who squandered a 5-0 lead in Game 2, scored four times in the bottom of the second with the help of a pair of Massapequa errors to get within a run.

The Chiefs responded with single runs in the fourth and sixth to lead 7-4, but back came Oceanside with a pair in the bottom of the sixth on a sac fly by senior Karley Handleman and RBI groundout by sophomore Hailey Bischoff.

Clinging to a one-run lead, O’Mallon got counterpart Caroline Ferchland on a comebacker for the bottom of the seventh’s first out. Then came a foul pop to Dolan at first, and a sinking flare to a charging Erker in center to end it.

“At first that last out looked like it was in no-man’s land and was going to drop,” Schiereck said. “When Erker ran in and caught it, we just went crazy.”

Massapequa extended the series to a deciding third game with a wild 12-10 come-from-behind victory in Game 2 Monday. The Chiefs trailed 5-0 after an inning and a half, 8-4 entering the bottom of the fourth, and 10-7 going into the bottom of the sixth.

A five-run sixth put Massapequa over the top. It had just two hits in the frame, but four Oceanside errors aided the rally. Two errors came on Schiereck’s bases-loaded liner to center that allowed the Chiefs to lead for the first time, 11-10. Junior Katy Love followed with an RBI to score Schiereck.

Game 1 saw Oceanside prevail 7-3 behind the senior arm of Ferchland and a pair of RBIs from senior Riley Brasch.

Massapequa beat Oceanside in last year’s county final on its way to a state championship game appearance. In 2024, the Sailors defeated the Chiefs for the Nassau Class AAA crown.

“It’s anyone’s game on any given day, especially when it comes to these two teams,” Castellani said.

Tony Bellissimo/Herald

Ron Manfredi/Herald

Standout catcher Maeve Schiereck scored twice in Massapequa’s 7-6 win in Game 3.

HERALD SPORTS

Red Devils beat Kings Park, 2-0, for L.I. title

By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

With Plainedge’s Taylor Nitsch and Kings Park’s Everett Zarzicki on the mound last Saturday night, it wasn’t going to take many runs to come away with the Long Island Class A baseball championship.

And it was the bat of an unlikely source, Dylan Loccisano, who provided all the offense the Red Devils needed to capture their first L.I. title since 2012.

The backup catcher’s two-run, bases-loaded single to right with two outs in the bottom of the fourth inning was all undefeated Plainedge needed to secure a 2-0 victory over the Kingsmen at Farmingdale State College.

“I just wanted to make sure I got the bat on the ball,” said Loccisano, who replaced injured Jayden Gaghan for last week’s county championship series win over Wantagh. “I took the first pitch down the middle for a strike, but I wasn’t going to let another one get by,” he added. “It’s great to be a part of such a special team.”

Now 27-0 with 11 shutouts, Plainedge will face Marlboro Central in the state Class A semifinals Friday at 7 p.m. at Binghamton University. The state final is Saturday at 10 a.m.

“I can’t say enough about all these guys,” Plainedge coach Colin Fratrik said. “Just a special group that comes to work every day and wants to win. It’s been a fun ride and we’ll try to keep it going for two more games.”

As expected, the game was a pitcher’s duel throughout. It took an hour-long weather

delay to end the nights for both Nitsch and Zarzicki.

After Loccisano drove home AJ Calapai and Dom Santivasci, Nitsch took a 2-0 lead into the top of the fifth. Kings Park had one out and a runner on second base when a thunderstorm that brought heavy rain forced spectators to their vehicles and the teams to their respective buses.

“We were a little anxious during the delay,” Fratrik said. “We knew there was a chance we’d get some rain, but we didn’t skip a beat once we got back out there.”

Nitsch, a senior, scattered four hits, walked none and struck out four in 4 1/3 innings and gave way to junior Jaxson Torres, who needed just four pitches to complete the inning.

“Jaxson and I have the same mentality when we’re on the mound,” Nitsch said. “I would’ve warmed back up and gotten ready if I was needed, but I had all the confidence in the world Jaxson would finish the job.”

Zarzicki, a junior, worked four innings and allowed four hits, four walks and struck out two. He stranded two runners in the first and benefited from double plays turned by the defense in each of next two innings.

Torres worked out of a jam in the sixth after the Kingsmen had runners on first and second, getting a soft pop to Santivacci at shortstop to end the threat. In the seventh, Torres struck out the first two batters before Santivacci fielded a grounder and threw to Bobby Wescott at first to set off a wild celebration.

“It’s a great feeling, but the job isn’t finished yet,” Torres said.

Tony Bellissimo/Herald

Plainedge kept its perfect season alive and advanced to the state Final Four with a 2-0 L.I. championship game win over Kings Park last Saturday.

Media Origin Inc./Herald

Junior Dylan Loccisano delivered all the offense for the Red Devils with a two-run single in the fourth inning.

Chiefs repeat as L.I. ‘AAA’ baseball champs

By DYLAN BUTLER sports@liherald.com

The opponent was the same. And so, too, was the result.

For a second straight year, the Massapequa baseball team defeated Connetquot in the Long Island Class AAA championship game, winning 11-6 at the Middle Country Athletic Complex in Selden last Saturday.

The formula, though, was a bit different this year.

“We always relied on two really stud pitchers,” Massapequa coach Tom Sheedy said. “This year, we’re relying on eight to 10 bullpen guys. It’s a little bit different, but it’s definitely working.”

Senior Ryan Moore got the party started with a two-run double in the top of the first inning, followed by an RBI-single by senior AJ Conza as the Chiefs sent eight batters to the plate to take a 3-0 lead.

Connetquot (21-4) responded to tie the score 3-3 in the bottom of the first, and that’s when Jack Corrigan’s number was called. Last year’s closer and a former starter,

Corrigan was brilliant in four-andone-third scoreless innings of relief.

“I was able to get ahead in a lot of counts,” Corrigan said. “I was locating fastballs, curveball was spinning well, just everything was working for me.”

Junior Chris Sultana put Massapequa (23-3-1) back in front with a two-run single off the wall in rightcenter field in the top of the second and followed with a run-scoring single to right to extend Massapequa’s lead to 6-3 in the top of the fourth inning.

An RBI fielder’s choice by Moore, an RBI single by junior Joe Genova and a run-scoring single to left by senior John Neary in a fourrun fourth inning extended the Chiefs’ lead to 9-3.

Conza drove in two more with a single to left in the top of the fifth inning to give Massapequa an 11-3 lead.

“Everybody was hitting, everybody was swinging the bat,” Corrigan said. “We had nine runs scored with two outs. Everybody was swinging it well and swinging it

well when it mattered.”

Connetquot cut its deficit to 11-6, loading the bases in the bottom of the seventh. But Adelphi-bound closer James Alonso induced a ground out to end the game and seal another Long Island championship for the Chiefs.

Massapequa, which won the 10th Long Island championship in school history, advances to take on Monroe-Woodbury in the New York State Class AAA semifinals in Binghamton Friday.

“There were a lot of sad faces last year because the expectation was that we were going to win a state championship, and we just didn’t get over the hump,” Sheedy said. “Fourteen of our 15 seniors were all on the team last year. I have six guys playing for their third season. That’s a tremendous amount of experience. They’ve been down this road before.”

Ryan Moore’s two-run double in the first set the tone in the Chiefs’ 11-6 LIC win over Connetquot.

Huntington holds off Massapequa, 9-6, for LIC

By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

The opening goal notwithstanding, Massapequa chased the scoreboard throughout Sunday’s Long Island Class A girls’ lacrosse championship and couldn’t quite overcome Huntington.

The youthful Chiefs rallied but fell short for a second straight spring to the Blue Devils, falling 9-6 at Stony Brook University in a rematch of last year’s LIC.

“I’m super proud of the fact the girls didn’t give up,” Massapequa co-coach Megan Protano said. “Emily Fitzgerald in goal was tremendous and kept us in it. We made a few halftime adjustments and the girls fought to the very end and gave us a real chance.”

Fitzgerald and Huntington’s Juliet Johnson, both sophomores, were nothing short of spectacular in goal with multiple point-blank saves each. Fitzgerald made 10 saves; Johnson 15.

“Both goalies were unbelievable,” Protano said. “Both have a great future.”

The Chiefs, with only three seniors on the roster, trailed by as many as five on several occasions, including 75 seconds into the second half when Jolie Weinschreider gave Huntington an 8-3 lead.

Tony Bellissimo/Herald Massapequa’s Natalie Byrns split Huntington’s Grace Gordon, left, and Valentina Puccio during Sunday’s L.I. title game.

“At halftime we talked about getting a fresh start in the second half,” Protano said. “We gave them a different look on defense and won some draws that really helped.”

omore Keira Szwejkowski’s goal with 2:21 remaining in the third quarter to provide Massapequa (15-4) with some momentum that carried into the fourth.

Appleton (two goals and two assists) and sophomore Ava Macri both scored their second goals of the game in a span of a minute in the fourth quarter. Macri’s tally off a feed from senior Grace Hoffman came with 7:30 remaining in regulation and cut the deficit to 8-6.

The Chiefs were inches to closing within one. Johnson made one crucial save with five minutes remaining and saw two shots get by her but clang off the post and out.

Leighton Evans scored with 58.5 seconds left to seal the deal for the Blue Devils.

“We’re a young team that’s losing three major seniors,” said Protano, referring to Appleton, Hoffman and Kali Humman. “That’s three big pieces but we’re hoping to be back here next season.”

Natalie Byrns and Olivia LoGuidice grabbed six draw controls each for Massapequa.

Senior Savanna Appleton set up soph-

A defense led by junior Peyton Wildes and sophomores Keira Felker and Emma Ferguson dialed up the pressure and Emily Fitzgerald was a wall for the next 22 minutes after Weinschreider’s goal.

Appleton finished the campaign with 65 goals and 51 assists to rank second in Nassau County in scoring. Hoffman had 38 goals and 44 assists, and Macri had 48 goals.

Erik Lee/Herald

HERALD NEIGHBORS

Farmingdale High unveils Wall of Valor honoring military veterans New tribute recognizes graduates who served in the Armed Forces

Farmingdale High School unveiled its inaugural Wall of Valor on May 27, creating a permanent tribute to district graduates who served in the United States Armed Forces.

The ceremony featured a presentation of colors, a military service song medley performed by the Daler Brass band and the induction of veterans representing decades of military service.

The National Anthem was played by the Daler Brass, conducted by Matt DeMasi, which included Nicholas Suwalski, Benjamin Turner, Aidan Chung, Brendan Drozdowski, Anthony McKee, William Herbert, Earl Jones III, David Abrams and Anthony Russo.

Welcoming remarks were by School Superintendent Paul Defendini and Jed Herman.

Guest speakers were Lt. Col. Richard V. Vargas; American Legion 499 Post Commander Joseph Minieri and VFW Post 516 Post Commander Michael Bresnahan.

District officials said the Wall of Valor was created to recognize military veterans in a way the school’s existing Wall of Fame could not, providing a dedicated space to honor their service and sacrifice.

Superintendent Paul Defendini said the tribute reflects the district’s longstanding connection to local veterans organizations, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion.

“The Wall of Valor was established to honor veterans who secured the freedoms we enjoy today,” Defendini said. “Our veterans have stories that need to be told, and we have a responsibility to provide the audience.”

Among those recognized were current district employees and Farmingdale graduates who served in different branches of the military across multiple generations.

Guest speaker Lt. Col. Richard Vargas, a Farmingdale High graduate, spoke about the values he learned as a student and their impact on his military career.

“This Wall of Valor is a symbol for future generations of students, staff, and faculty to reflect on selfless service,” Vargas said. “For me and so many Dalers, my basic training started right here.”

School officials said the Wall of Valor will serve as a lasting reminder of the contributions and sacrifices made by Farmingdale graduates who served their country.

HONOREES’ NAMES AND RANKS OF SERVICE

Matthew John Chimenti, E-4 PO3 Navy

Robert Daniel Cicio, E-2 PFC Marines

James Joseph Daly, Spec 5 Army

Frank A. Danetra, E-3 LCpl Marine Corps

Brian R. Davis, BM 3rd Class Coast Guard

Paul D’Aversa, E-3 PFC Army

John Dugan, E-4 Cpl Marine Corps

Adriana M. Eugenio, E-4 SPC Army

James Eyester, Major Marine Corps

Donald Gaghan, E-4 Army

Gregory J. Innes, Sgt Air Force/USAR

Arthur J. Innes Jr., Spec-5 Army

Gerald J. Innes, E-4 CPL Army

Thomas P. Innes, At-1 Navy

Conor Brian Jones, LCDR Navy

James Kozikowski, Jr., E-5 Sgt Marine Corps

Jarret Lichtenstein, E-7 GySgt Marine Corps

James George McCaffrey, E-4 SrA Air Force

John Joseph Merkle, Sgt Air Force

William Kenneth Meyer, E-6 TSgt Navy/Air Force

Steven Lawrence Millet, E-2 PFC Marines

Matthew Shea, E-3 LCpl Marine Corps

Rory Skelly, Lt Col Air Force

Daniel Phillip Sukman, COL Army

Christopher P. Taylor, E-4 PO3 Coast Guard

Kevin Timothy Taylor, E-6 PO1 Navy

Robert Fred Taylor, E-4 Cpl Marine Corps

Thomas J. Taylor, E-5 PO2 Navy

Fredrick Trifaro, E-5 SGT Army

Frank Trifaro, E-5 SGT Army

Richard A. Vargas, Lt Col Marine Corps.

William Anthony Yostpille, E-4 SrA Air Force

Joseph Walsh E-3 LCpl Marine Corps

At Right:

Veteran

Guest speaker Lieutenant Colonel Richard Vargas addresses students and families during the inaugural Wall of Valor induction. A 1972 graduate, Vargas spoke about the “warrior ethos” and how his foundation for success began within the halls of Farmingdale High School.

Courtesy Farmingdale school district

Veteran Frank Dentra is shown with his family and Superintendent of Schools Paul Defendini and Farmingdale school principal Jed Herman.

Gregory Innes is shown at the event

Veteran Matthew John Chimenti is shown at the event with Superintendent of Schools Paul Defendini and Farmingdale school principal Jed Herman

LIRR expands service for golf’s U.S. Open

By AIDAN WARSHAVSKY awarshavsky@liherald.com

The 126th U.S. Open Championship, which begins next week, is being played at the Shinnecock Hills Golf Club — known as one of the “cathedrals” of golf — for the first time since 2018.

Eric Steimer, senior director of U.S. Championships at the United States Golf Association, said the USGA’s transportation strategy is intended to reduce congestion around the site while providing multiple travel options for fans attending the tournament.

The plan, developed in collaboration with the Long Island Rail Road, Suffolk County and New York state officials, will be in effect from June 15, three days before the tournament starts, until June 21, the day it ends.

Steimer said that the 15-person team that planned transportation operations recognized early that travel logistics would be one of the event’s biggest challenges. “Any time we’re out here in eastern Long Island at Shinnecock Hills, transportation is a challenge,” Steimer said. “We’re doing a lot of different things to really try to mitigate that.”

As it did eight years ago, the LIRR’s Montauk Branch will provide transportation to and from the tournament. A temporary station will be constructed in Tuckahoe, across from Shinnecock Hills, on the south side of County Road

39, adjacent to Stony Brook University’s Southampton campus. A temporary pedestrian bridge will span the roadway.

From June 15 to 17, the LIRR plans to operate 10 inbound trains and dozens of outbound trains, more than double the service it provided in 2018. During the championship rounds, June 18 to 21, 12 inbound trains and 13 outbound trains are scheduled to operate.

“The Long Island Rail Road is ready,” its president, Rob Free, stated in a news release. “Avoid the traffic and use our

exceptionally reliable service to and from Shinnecock Hills for all the golf action. Extra staff will also be on hand at Southampton to help customers throughout the championship for a great customer experience.”

Steimer explained that this year’s transportation differs from 2018 because satellite parking operations have moved from Gabreski Airport to Calverton Executive Airpark.

“We will have complimentary parking and complimentary shuttle buses to and from the championship,” Steimer

said. “Anyone that looks at Calverton on a map is going to see that it’s pretty far away from Shinnecock Hills, but at the same time it is very accessible for anyone that’s coming from points west or coming along the Long Island Expressway.”

For residents of Southampton, Sag Harbor, Easthampton and neighboring communities, Steimer recommended using a rideshare program operating from Stony Brook Southampton’s campus.

Hamton Jitney will operate shuttle service for spectators traveling from Montauk, Amagansett, Sag Harbor, Bridgehampton, Water Mill and Southampton. Pickups and drop-offs will be located near Admission Gate 2 on the Stony Brook campus.

Fans traveling from New York City will have the option of using Blade helicopter service from June 18 to 21, with return flights scheduled each evening after play ends.

Steimer urged commuters not to arrange drop-offs on County Road 39, and said there would be increased police presence at intersections around the golf course.

“This is a plan that’s been carefully articulated with local experts to be able to implement this plan,” he said. “Now is the time to bring it to life.”

For more information on train service, go to MTA.INFO/document/209406.

USGA/Fred Vuich

With the 126th U.S. Open set to tee off at Shinnecock Hills, the USGA and transportation companies like the LIRR announced travel plans for the tournament.

Review of ASD results show a discrepancy

Yard-Jean, 785.

fer from those reported on the evening of May 19, we do not anticipate any change to the outcome of either the budget vote or the trustee election,” said Talbert.

The school’s decision was also announced to the public at this week’s school board meeting by President Lisa Johnson.

A school district is not required to conduct a recount when a discrepancy is determined to be insignificant and would not change the outcome of an election. However, only the commissioner’s office can authorize a recount, generally at the request of a resident or school officials.

“The board of Education takes its responsibility to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the election process very seriously,” said Talbert in explaining the district’s decision to ask the commissioner’s office to conduct the recount. “We believe transparency is essential in maintaining public trust.”

“Historically the Commissioner of Education has rarely ordered recounts, particularly when discrepancies are too small to affect an election’s outcome,” said School Board Trustee Juan Leon who supported the board’s decision. “However, the district’s legal counsel has recommended the district petitition the Commissioner, which suggests that our situation may require additional review.”

The election results on May 19 showed that the four Rising Tide candidates won seats on the school board: Angel Davenport, with 811 votes; Cheryl Quintyne-Best, 807; Michael McDonald, 761; and Equasia

They defeated the Tide Turners candidates: Donelle Cronin, with 745 votes; Wendy Canestro, 712; Stephannie Andrews, 685; and Chris Papile, 685.

Amityville voters also approved the school budget, 740-621. Those results are not in question.

Newly elected school board member Michael McDonald agreed with the district’s decision to ask for a recount, saying he fully supported the recount. “If there is a question, why not get an answer to it,” said McDonald.

While the board did not indicate by how much the vote totals were off, McDonald said the discrepancy was one vote, though he said he did not know in which race it occurred. “I absolutely support the recount.”

Canestro said she was concerned about the integrity of the election process both during the campaign and while votes were being counted. She said that she and another candidate, both former school board members, asked questions about the process on election night and received no clear answers, “further compounding the lack of trust and integrity in the process,” she said.

“It is shocking,” she said. “Me and my team witnessed so many irregularities during the elections that we believe the entire process was compromised. These results should not be recounted—they should be overturned.”

The Herald reached out to the district’s attorneys, Guercio & Guercio, of Farmingdale. They were not immediately available for comment.

State law to assist police under review

CONTINUED FROM COVER

spread support from Democrats as well as Republicans.

“This is not a political issue,” said O’Pharrow, who is retired from law enforcement. “It is a human issue and is an effort to ensure that police are able to get information following a crime in a timely manner.”

State Assemblyman Michael Durso (R9th), agreed saying anything lawmakers can do to give police the tools they need to investigate and resolves serious crimes is important.

“Anything we can do to make sure that this kind of a situation does not happen again is important,” said Durso. “Anything we can do to help police and law enforcement do their jobs more effectively and solve crimes quicker is important.”

Support for the measure came from Nassau County PBA president Tom Shevlin.

“Video evidence is often crucial to identifying dangerous subjects, investigating crimes and delivering justice for victimes,” he said. “Timely access to evidence helps police do that.”

Under the state measure, if passed, busi-

nesses would face fines and civil penalties if they do not release the tapes to law enforcement authorities within 24 hours. Lawmakers are also working to ensure the legislation is balanced with constitutional concerns.

A similar law is under review in Suffolk County. The sponsor of that bill, Leg. Jason Richberg said county lawmakers want to make sure legislation is in place as quickly as possible. “We are not sure that a state measure will pass this year,” he said. “But we believe it is vital to have something in place as quickly as possible.”The tapes in the CVS murder helped in the arrest and prosecution of a suspect in the case, John Pilaccio, 43 who has been charged in Cine’s death. Police said Pilaccio went into the store shortly before 7 p.m., and stabbed Cine during an attempted robbery. Cine was rushed to Good Samaritan Hospital with a chest wound and pronounced dead within an hour of the stabbing. Cine’s family said that he was working that day taking the place of another employee who wanted time off to be with his family. If convicted, Pilaccio could face life in prison without parole.

NYS Assemblyman Michael Durso speaks at the press conference. NYS Sen. Monica Martinez is at left and NYS Assemblyman Kwani O’Pharrow is at right.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

THURSDAY, JUNE 11

•Town of Oyster Bay Planning Advisory Board Meeting: 7 p.m., Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay. For more information, call (516) 624-6333.

SUNDAY, JUNE 14

•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, JUNE 15

•Nassau County Legislature Committees Meeting: 1p.m., Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building, 1550 Franklin Ave., Mineola. For more information, call 516-571-6200.

•Plainedge Public Library Board of Trustees Meeting: 7 p.m., Plainedge Public Library, 1060 Hicksville Road, N. Massapequa. For more information, please call (516) 735-4210.

•Massapequa Fire District Monthly Work Session: 7:30 p.m., District Administration Building, 1 Brooklyn Ave., Massapequa. For more information, call (516) 798-9849.

TUESDAY, JUNE 16

•Town of Oyster Bay Town Board Meeting: 10 a.m., Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay. For more information, please call (516) 624-6380.

•Plainedge School District Board of Education Meeting: 7:30 p.m., High School Cafeteria, Plainedge High School, 241 Wyngate Dr., Massapequa. For more information, call (516) 992-7450.

•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) 2207808. All calls are confidential.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17

• 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.

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.

Heralds win three awards from Press Club of L.I.

By JEFFREY BESSEN jbessen@liherald.com

Herald Community Media captured three awards at the annual Press Club of Long Island Media Awards and Long Island Journalism Hall of Fame induction dinner on June 4.

Oceanside/Island Park Herald reporter Abigail Grieco won the James Murphy Cub Reporter of the Year award, given to “emerging journalists who show strong early promise in the field.” Journalists who have worked full-time for fewer than 18 months are eligible. Grieco was an intern with the Herald in 2023, and began working full-time in October 2025.

Deputy Managing Editor Jordan Vallone and previous senior reporter Mohammad Fariq shared a second-place award in the transportation category for the story “Southern State: a road still stuck in the past,” which was part of the Herald’s 2025 series on the Southern State Parkway.

“A compelling and well-structured piece that effectively examines the longstanding dangers of the Southern State Parkway,” judges wrote. “The article succeeds in connecting historical design flaws with present-day traffic realities, clearly explaining how outdated infrastructure continues to contribute to

accidents.

“Particularly strong is the integration of data, expert references, and concrete examples, such as low overpass collisions and hazardous curve segments,” the judges added. “The writing remains clear and accessible while addressing a complex safety issue. Overall, a thoughtful and informative investigation with clear public relevance and lasting value.”

Photographer Erik H. Lee earned a third-place award for a photo of the Wantagh High School baseball game.

“These awards reflect our commitment to strong local journalism and to telling the stories that matter most to Long Island communities,” Stuart Richner, CEO of Richner Communications, said. “We are especially proud to see our emerging reporters, experienced editors and talented photographers recognized for work that informs the public and has a lasting impact.”

Four veterans of Long Island journalism were inducted into the PCLI’s Hall of Fame: Photojournalist Michael DelGiudice, radio reporter Sophia Hall, former Newsday editor Anthony E. Insolia, and Shirley E. Perelman, who covered many major stories for Newsday, from the Long Island garbage barge to the trial of O.J. Simpson.

For more information on the press club, go to PCLI.org.

Reworld celebrates Long Island environmental leaders

By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com

Herald Community Media and Reworld partnered to celebrate Long Island’s leading environmental advocates and innovators during the Herald Sustainability Awards of Long Island, held May 14 at the Heritage Club at Bethpage.

The event recognized individuals and organizations making significant contributions to environmental sustainability while also honoring student leaders working to protect Long Island’s natural resources.

“Nothing unites Long Islanders more than our natural environment, from beaches and bays to wetlands and parks — these treasures are our fountain of life, beauty and resources,” said Stuart Richner, CEO of Richner Communications. “Tonight, we gather to honor environmental champions who are working tirelessly to protect Long Island’s natural ecosystem for future generations. Their efforts are challenging but vitally important and we thank them for their unwavering dedication.”

The ceremony, emceed by comedian Tom Kelley, also featured awards for four Student Champions for Sustainability and a total of $7,500 in student sustainability initiative prizes.

Adel Omrani, president of Reworld’s East Region, highlighted the company’s role in transforming waste into energy.

“You don’t think of waste when you put it at the curb, and you usually don’t think about disposal, but there’s a lot of processes that goes into that,” he said. “We generate electricity out of that and recycle metals. Just for Long Island, for example, we power 100,000 homes just from processing this waste and using it as fuel.”

Omrani said collaboration among environmental leaders remains essential.

“It’s a very big part of what we do as a community,” he said.

Reworld Market Area Director James Regan stressed the importance of sustainable waste management on Long Island.

“For Long Island, an issue like sustainable waste management is extremely important given how populated it is and how limited resources are,” he said. “Reworld, for us, has a focus to continue to partner with all

these great champions of sustainability to ensure we have sustainable waste management for decades to come.”

New York State Senator Siela Bynoe spoke during the dinner portion of the event.

“I have really had the environment in mind as I’ve been in my various roles in government,” she said.

Bynoe’s life experiences motivated her to pursue environmental advocacy, witnessing increased cancer rates due to local contamination in the Caribbean and disproportionate harm done to marginalized communities during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“I set off on a path to make sure that we can conserve water, make sure we have clean water, and make sure that we are doing what we can to ensure that we sustain this community, this county and this state (so) that we have a bright future,” she said.

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, a longtime environmental advocate, discussed his commitment to protecting Long Island’s future.

“I’m very concerned about the direction we’re going as a state and as an island, and I’m looking to change that direction by doing a number of things,” he said.

Romaine cited efforts to improve municipal waste management, expand solar energy infrastructure and advance environmentally friendly policies.

“I could have retired long ago, but there are things that I want to accomplish,” he said. “We need to see change.”

Among the evening’s featured speakers was sports broadcaster and former NFL quarterback Boomer Esiason, who reflected on his connection to the Great South Bay.

“When I was a kid, between the ages of 14 and 17, I spent a lot of my summers on the Great South Bay — I was a clammer,” he said. “It was great, but there were areas of the Great South Bay that we couldn’t clam in because it was considered polluted... It took many years for it to turn around and to start going back the other way, and it’s one of the things I’m most proud about.” Esiason praised young environmental advocates being recognized at the event.

“I’m very, very proud of them, and very proud of what they’re trying to do for the beaches of the Great South Bay,” he said.

Girl Scouts Emma Klein and Zoe Lazarus, Roslyn High School sophomore Charles Metzger and Hauppauge High senior Matias Ka-

James Regan, Bill Murphy, David Sharp, Adel Omrani, Maureen Early, Ed Sandkuhl, Matt Augi, Brian Aerne and (front, from

laitzis were all winners of the Student Champions for Sustainability Award. The four were recognized for their civic service, from cleanups to awareness efforts.

National Grid Ventures, the main natural gas utility for over 600,000 residential and business customers in Nassau and Suffolk counties; Tritec, primarily known for mixeduse developments, transit-oriented communities and commercial property management across Long Island; and UBS Arena, the home of the New York Islanders, were all recognized with team awards.

As the presenting sponsor, Reworld continues to support environmental progress across Long Island. The company operates facilities in Westbury, West Babylon, East Northport and Ronkonkoma, processing two-thirds of Long Island’s waste, recycling thousands of tons of metals and generating electricity for local homes while helping reduce landfill use and greenhouse gas emissions.

For more information about Reworld and its initiatives that support various community empowerment and environmental programs fostering positive change locally and globally, visit ReworldWaste.com.

To view more pictures, visit RichnerLive.com.

Honoree Suffolk County Executive, Edward P. Romaine with special guest, former NFL quarterback Boomer Esiason.

Center executive director.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Honoree State Senator Siela Bynoe, District 6.

Baptiste/Herald College Student Champion Honoree Vienna De Lombaerde, who attends Hofstra University.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald The duo team honorees for the Student Champion Award: Sayville High School 9th graders Emma Klein, left, and Zoe Lazarus.

and executive director of Balloon

Baptiste/Herald Honoree Derek Betts, Nassau County Soil and Water District Manager, left, with Conservation District Lead Community Relations Specialist Maureen Early and Reworld. Market Area Director James Regan.

Conservancy executive

Photos by Tim Baker/Herald

The Sustainability Awards powered by Reworld brought together leaders, innovators, and advocates committed to building a more sustainable future for Long Island.

Tim Baker/Herald

A special thank you to Adel Omrani, President of Reworld East Region, whose vision and leadership helped bring this inspiring celebration of sustainability to life.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Guests enjoyed freshly shucked oysters by Keena Boyle of Tall Mutha Shucka during the cocktail hour.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald

Sponsors for the night (back, from left) included Ricardo Salce, Bobby Green, Rudy Winkler, Rob Balbierz,

left) Kamrun Haque, Vickey Ardounis, and Rehan Simonia from the team at Reworld.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Honoree Maxine Montello, New York Marine Rescue

Melissa

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Honoree Cynthia Seibold, founder

Mission, Inc.

Melissa

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Honoree Robyn Silvestri, executive director of Save the Great South Bay.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Honoree Corey Humphrey, C.P.E.S.C, District Manager for Suffolk County Soil and Water Conservation District.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Honoree Marty Bellew, president of Islip Resource Recovery Agency.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Honoree Devon Giordano, Long Island

director.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Honoree Julie Tighe, president of New York League of Conservation Voters

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Honoree Eileen Minogue, Book Fairies executive director.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Honoree Nick Krupski, solid waste coordinator for Southold Town Department of Solid Waste.

Tim Baker/Herald

Each honoree was presented with a crystal award commemorating their outstanding commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald Student Champion honorees: Roslyn High School 10th grader Charles Metzger, left, and Hauppauge High School graduating senior Matias Kalaitzis with special guest Kyle Palmieri of the New York Islanders.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald

National Grid Ventures’ honor team included Kamona Ayres, left, Robert Wittmer, Tom Garry, Alanna Russo, and Retha Fernandez.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald

Tianna D’Italia, left, Michael Sciortino, Mike Santeramo, Joe Giarraputo, Caroline Shipps, and Erin Nourijanian of UBS Arena’s honoree team.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald

Michael O’Leary, left, Robert Kent, Shannon Coughlan, Jim Coughlan, Jimmy Coughlan, and Chris Kelly of Tritec Real Estate Company’s honoree team.