Massapequa Herald 06_26_2025

DA Tierney challenges DNA expert at Gilgo Beach murders hearing

By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com

Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney spent two days cross-examining a defense witness last week in the case against alleged Gilgo Beach serial killer Rex Heuermann. He challenged the credibility and conclusions of Nathaniel Adams, a systems engineer with Forenic Bioinfirmatic Services in Fairborn, who refuted the reliability of forensic DNA testing methods used by a California lab linking Heuermann to the victims.

The hearing was before Supreme Court Justice Timothy Mazzei in New York State Supreme Court, Riverhead.

Between June 17 and 18, Adams testified that DNA evidence in the case failed to meet at least 21 nationally accepted verification and validation standards. The DNA findings are critical in the case against Heuermann, which is expected to come to trial early next year.

Adams claimed that the lab lacked the necessary framework to verify the reliability of its DNA software and noted that testing

plans, records and results did not exist.

“It’s unreliable,” Adams said during direct examination by defense attorney Danielle Coysh.

During cross-examination, Tierney focused on Adams’ qualifications and testimony history. He noted that Adams, 38, has a record of disputing various DNA testing methods, including those widely accepted by courts and the broader scientific community.

“You reject almost every modality of DNA testing, including those deemed widely admissible by the courts in this country,” Tierney said.

Adams acknowledged that he has testified in about 30 state and federal cases, always on behalf of the defense.

Tierney challenged the depth of Adams’ analysis of Astrea’s work, comparing Adams’ several pages of notes with the 28 terabytes of data he said the lab provided to prosecutors.

“Your review of terabytes of data only generates seven pages of notes,” Tierney said.

He further criticized Adams by referencing a 57-slide PowerPoint presentation the

Adult care facility in Massapequa gets a boost from LIA

By KEPHERD DANIEL AND CAROLYN JAMES kdaniel@liherald.com, cjames@liherald.com

A sign on the wall of the welcoming entryway at TrueCare reads, “Do small things with great love.”

It’s a fitting message for the adult day care facility, which offers services and socialization for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

“I am a woman of faith and I love what I do,” said Carol Bottiglieri, owner and operator of TrueCare, which has locations in Massapequa and Seaford. “When people come here, I want them to feel like it’s their second home.”

The Massapequa center, located at 187 Veterans Blvd., is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and features warmly decorated rooms with comfortable furniture. A central kitchen offers a space for clients to enjoy meals and coffee breaks.

However, one feature the facility lacks, Bottiglieri said, is easy access to its spacious backyard — a challenge she now plans to resolve thanks to a small-business grant she received from Optimum Business and the Long Island Association Foundation. TrueCare will use the funding to install a ramp from the rear door to the yard and add fencing and security gates.

“Right now we have this lovely outdoor space, but because of a

9-inch step from the back door to the yard, the residents can’t use it,” she said. “This grant gives us the chance to make our facility safer and more accessible for our clients, who rely on us daily.”

The funding was announced June 18 at the second annual Small Business Summit, which recognized 40 recipients of the L.O.C.A.L. Small Business Grant program. Each awardee received $5,000 in funding, as well as access to mentorship and networking opportunities designed to support long-term growth.

“So much crazy stuff is going on in the world today that people forget what makes everyday life work is small businesses,” said U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi. “Most of the jobs in America are created by small businesses.”

This year’s program awarded a total of $200,000 to businesses across Nassau and Suffolk counties. Since launching the initiative, Optimum has invested nearly $500,000 to support a wide range of small enterprises, including those in childcare, massage therapy and promotional services.

Beyond financial awards, the summit offered participants access to business tools and community resources through Optimum and the LIA Foundation, the charitable arm of the Long Island Association.

“We had hundreds of appli-

ON PAGE 2

Courtesy James Carbone

Alleged serial killer Rex Heuermann is escorted into court in Riverhead for continued hearings

DNA evidence hearing continues in Gilgo Beach murders case

CONTINUED FROM COVER

witness used to explain his findings, comparing Adams’ work to a software development lifecycle chart. “If we evaluated you in adherence to the formal process, you would be in the zone of chaos,” Tierney said.

Adams was called during the case’s ongoing Frye hearing, a legal proceeding used to determine whether scientific evidence presented in court is generally accepted within the relevant scientific community.

Adams testified that Astrea’s methods were inconsistent with standards set by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), which represents about 150,000 professionals in the U.S. He cited shortcomings in Astrea’s verification and validation practices, which he said failed to meet critical benchmarks.

However, Tierney pushed back by reading from the IEEE’s own disclaimer, which states that adherence to its standards is voluntary. “The existence of an IEEE standard does not imply that there are no other ways to produce, test, measure, purchase, market, or provide other goods and services,” Tierney read aloud.

The district attorney also scrutinized Adams’ educational background, not

nesses, who all hold doctorates in scientific fields.

During redirect, Coysh defended Adams’ qualifications, stating that it is typical for software engineers to hold only a bachelor’s degree. She asked Adams whether a doctorate would have changed his opinion on Astrea’s procedures.

Tierney objected, and Mazzei sustained the objection. Coysh then rephrased, asking whether holding a doctorate would have changed any of the evidence in the case. “No,” Adams responded. This time, the objection was overruled. “I’ll allow that,” Mazzei said.

Outside the courtroom, court-appointed defense attorney Michael Brown said Heuermann remains focused on preparing for trial.

“He’s very anxious to get to trial, but he’s a patient man,” Brown said. “He appreciates the fact that we’re working for him and making sure we cross our T’s and dot our I’s before we get to trial.”

Prosecutors declined to comment until the hearing concludes.

Heuermann, 61, of Massapequa Park, was arrested in July 2023 and has pleaded not guilty to the murders of seven women: Melissa Barthelemy, Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Amber Lynn Costello,

and Allison.

Small business in Massapequa receives special grant from LIA

cants for this program,” said Stacey Sikes, vice president of government affairs and communications at the LIA. “We hope to stay in contact with them and support them. The program has had a significant impact on businesses by helping them grow, which in turn helps our local economy.”

Phil Andrews, president of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of the program in supporting minority-owned businesses.

of giving Black businesses resources, and it’s really making a difference. Small businesses are the engines for business development and growth across Long Island.”

Small businesses with fewer than 10 employees make up about 80 percent of Long Island’s business landscape. Along with recognition, the summit gave owners and chamber members the opportunity to connect and explore additional growth resources.

“This program is built to last,” said Jay Guy, vice president and general manager at Optimum Business. “The future is bright.”

I have joined Lebenthal Financial Services, Inc., an independent broker-dealer based in Jericho, NY, to better serve my clients with expanded resources and greater flexibility.

For more information about TrueCare,

My commitment remains the same, guided by these core principles: Understanding your unique financial goals

Researching and recommending the best solutions

Providing ongoing guidance to help you achieve financial success

By joining Lebenthal, I now have:

Access to a wider range of financial products and services

Financial planning services at no additional cost

Greater flexibility to select the most suitable solutions for you

A broader array of investment options to diversify and strengthen your portfolio

I look forward to this next chapter and continuing to help you achieve your financial goals. Contact Me: 516-606-5752 | Email Me: GSlavin@lebenthal.com Learn More: lebenthalfinancial.com | lebenthal.com

Carolyn James/Herald

Carol Bottiglieri, standing, with staff member Michelle seated at left, and clients Gary, Marty

Veteran’s Column By Sal Polito

VA medical center: Program reviews, staff buyouts and facility improvements underway

At the most recent meeting with Dr. Antonio Sánchez, executive director of the VA Northport Medical Center in Northport, we learned that no active programs have been cut.

Services such as employee daycare, golf, and other non-medical offerings remain in place. According to the director, staffing adjustments have occurred, but these have not affected medical positions. Other non-critical employees are currently under review and will be evaluated based on their roles and importance.

A voluntary employee buyout program has been introduced. As of this writing, seven employees have opted in.

It is expected that more may volunteer in the coming weeks, though the total number and timeline remain uncertain. Dr. Sanchez assured staff and stakeholders that the quality of care and services will not be negatively impacted and that hospital operations are continuing normally.

Construction Progress

Due to inclement weather, the completion date for the hospital’s new parking lot has been moved to May. However, construction on other projects—including the expansion of the emergency room—is progressing on schedule. I have personally observed the ongoing work, including the installation of steel girders

and the expansion of the women’s wing of the hospital.

On the issue of parking, veterans are reminded that, as of Oct. 24, 2022, the Village of Farmingdale enacted a law allowing vehicles with a Veterans Disability license plate to park in all village lots free of charge.

Contract Review and Remote Work Policy

Dr. Sanchez and hospital leadership are currently reviewing all Veterans Affairs (contracts to ensure efficient and responsible use of funds. We were reassured that these reviews will not affect critical hospital staffing.

As a reminder, effective May 5, 2025, all VA employees working remotely must report to their hospitals. Those residing more than 50 miles from their primary workplace are required to report to the nearest VA facility.

Who Gets Dental?

One key issue I continue to advocate for is dental care for all veterans.

Courtesy PSEG

PSEG Long Island employee-volunteer Anthony Badagliacca of Massapequa collected monetary donations from neighbors during PSEG Long Island’s first-of-the season Power to Feed Long Island collection drive on June 13.

Massapequans kick off PSEG’s ‘Power to Feed LI’ food drive

Massapequans donated the equivalent of 3,600 meals during PSEG Long Island’s Power to Feed Long Island event held June 13. The event was held at the Stop & Shop at Hicksville Road and Jerusalem Avenue in Massapequa and brought out dozens of community members who opened their hearts, wallets and trunks to provide cash, food, personal care items and pet supplies to their neighbors in need. More than $700 in cash and 2,100 pounds of donated items were collected.

As a thank you for contributing, PSEG Long Island employee-volunteers handed out reusable shopping bags and LED lightbulbs— gifts that help preserve the environment and conserve energy. The event was the first in a summerlong food drive initiative. For additional information on PSEG Long Island’s Power to Feed Long Island, see upcoming events, learn what to donate, or how to make an online monetary donation, visit psegliny.com/feedLI.

Currently, only those with a 100% disability rating are eligible for VA dental benefits. I believe that all veterans— regardless of their disability percentage—should have access to dental care, especially when dental issues are secondary to service-connected conditions. If a veteran develops dental problems due to a condition already recognized by the VA, shouldn’t that also be considered for coverage?

These are the issues I, as well as many others who support veterans’ services, continue to raise and push for. I will keep working with our elected officials to advocate for change in this area.

Sal Polito works for the Town of Oyster Bay Veterans Agency. He is a member of American Legion Post 1066 in Massapequa and serves on the Nassau County Veterans Advisory Committee. The Oyster Bay Veterans office is a 1 West S., Mineola. They can be reached at 516 624-6400.

Meet some of our local scholars...

The following students were recently recognized for academic achievements and graduation at their respective colleges:

•Julianna Harvey of Massapequa, a member of Kellenberg Memorial High School’s Class of 2025, recently earned a Bloomberg Market Concepts Certification.

•Charles Battaglia of Massapequa and Neave Bowman of Massapequa were recently named to Stonehill College’s Dean’s List.

•Giovanna Fratantoni of Massapequa was recently named to the Dean’s List at the College of Charleston. Fratantoni is majoring in accounting.

•Ava Barnard of Massapequa was recently named to the President’s List at the College of Charleston. Barnard is majoring in Elementary Education.

•The following students were recently named to the Dean’s List and/ or President’s List at the University of Hartford: Joseph Cuthbert of Massapequa Park, Dean’s List; Gio Giordano of Farmingdale, Dean’s List and President’s List; Teresa Greene of Massapequa Park, Dean’s List and President’s List; and Antonella Lazcano of Farmingdale, Dean’s List and President’s List.

•The following students were recently named to the President’s List at Commonwealth University: Maria Pecorino of Massapequa, CU-Bloomsburg campus, and Sean Petzold of Farmingdale, CU-Lock Haven campus.

•Betul Yucedal of Farmingdale was recently named to the President’s List at Hudson Valley Community College.

•The following students were recently named to the Dean’s List at Commonwealth University: Lauren Closs, of Farmingdale, CUBloomsburg campus; Danielle Laffey, of Massapequa, CU-Bloomsburg campus; and Margaret Tower, of FarmingdaleCU-Bloomsburg campus.

•The following students were recently named to the Provost’s List at Hofstra University: Sama Ahmed of Farmingdale, majoring in Psychology; James Bacheller of Massapequa Park, majoring in Bioengineering; Andrew Baek of Massapequa, majoring in Pre -Physician Assistant; Joseph Cecora of Massapequa Park, majoring in Political Science; Alexa Cirabisi of Massapequa, majoring in Physical Education and Health; Georgiana Friedman of Farmingdale, majoring in Art; Christina Greenwood of Massapequa, majoring in Early Childhood and Childhood Education; Olivia Guido of Massapequa Park, majoring in Accounting; Brian Kennedy of Massapequa, majoring in History; Salma Khwaja of Farmingdale, majoring in Finance; Olivia Medford of Massapequa Park, majoring in Art; Julia Nastasi of Massapequa, majoring in Chemistry; Zahreena Rahimi of Farmingdale, majoring in Philosophy; Kyle Raymond of Massapequa, majoring in Mechanical Engineering; Lucas Saladin of Farmingdale, majoring in Film Studies and Production; Rebecca Scotto of Massapequa, majoring in Physician Assistant Studies; Shujing Sun of Massapequa Park, majoring in Chemistry; Ronan Varley of Massapequa, majoring in Psychology; and Jerry Vogt of Massapequa, majoring in Criminology.

Chamber president in open letter to members and neighbors

By Donna Hepworth

As we wrap up another Chamber year, I just want to take a moment to say thank you—and to look back at everything we’ve done together with pride and gratitude. It’s been a truly amazing year for the Chamber of Commerce of the Massapequas. Thanks to the dedication and hard work of our volunteer executive officers and Board of Directors, the Chamber is stronger than ever. We now have 278 members and are in great financial shape. That says a lot about the support and trust we have from our local business community - so thank you for being part of it.

This year, we made a real effort to be more involved in the community, and it paid off in such meaningful ways. We held some exciting first-ever events, like our St. Patrick’s Day Parade, a beautiful Breast Cancer Awareness Walk in honor of our dear friend and Past President Patricia Orzano, and a super- fun Trunk or Treat in the fall. At the same time, we kept our beloved traditions going strong. From our second Taste of Massapequa in April to the Holiday Fair and Christmas Tree & Menorah Lighting Ceremony, there was something special for everyone. We expanded our scholarship program, ran successful food and toy drives, and held heartfelt ceremonies to recognize our police officers, firefighters, and veterans. Our networking events also gave our members a chance to connect and grow their businesses.

One of the biggest highlights was our annual Street Festival, dedicated to Past Presidents Anthony Ventiera and Patricia Orzano. It was an amazing day that brought the community together and honored two people who meant so much to us. Huge thanks to Keith Wilson (event chairperson), along with Steve Parmiter and Pastor Chris Merz (co-vice chairs) for putting their all into making it such a success, and to Massapequa Imaging, an affiliate of Northwell Health, as the main event sponsor.

We also had a great time at our Westernthemed Installation Ceremony and Awards

dinner. It was a fun evening filled with good company and great energy as we welcomed our new executive oOfficers and Board of Directors. I was honored to be sworn in for a second term as President by Legislator James Kennedy, and our Board of Directors were proudly sworn in by our good friend Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino along with Councilman Andrew Monteleone. Special thanks to Masone Masonry for sponsoring the event, Investment Insight Wealth Management for sponsoring the awards - and to everyone who came out and made it such a fun and memorable night!

Looking ahead, we’ve got some exciting things coming up. For the first time, the Chamber will be sponsoring the fireworks at the Village of Massapequa Park’s Fire-

works Display at Mansfield Park in July, and we’re thrilled to help bring this summer tradition to life. We’re also planning our first-ever Chamber Member Picnic in August. This is a free event for our members, just to say thank you. It’ll be a laidback afternoon with good food and great company. Stay tuned for more info. Before I close, I want to give a huge shoutout to our Executive Officers and Board of Directors. Your time, your energy, and your heart have made such a difference this year, and I couldn’t be more grateful. I’m really looking forward to what’s ahead. Let’s keep the momentum going, keep supporting each other, and keep making Massapequa the vibrant, connected community we all love.

Meet some of our local scholars....

•The following students were recently named to the Dean’s List at Hofstra University: James Abbene of N. Massapequa, majoring in Accounting; Reyah Ahmed of Farmingdale, majoring in Health Science; Joseph Annunziata of Massapequa Park, majoring in Finance; Kelly Arent of Massapequa Park, majoring in Nursing; Annabella Barbuto of Massapequa Park, majoring in Pre-Physician Assistant; Jacob Bass of Massapequa Park, majoring in History; Brandon Bialog of Massapequa, majoring in Exercise Physiology; Marquis Blake of Massapequa, majoring in Accounting; Erin Bohenek of Massapequa, majoring in Psychology; Victoria Bowman of Massapequa Park, majoring in Nursing; Ryan Brzezinski of Massapequa, majoring in Computer Science; John Byrne of Massapequa, majoring in Physical Education and Health; Luchianna Cardello of Massapequa, majoring in Physical Education and Health; Jeiliz Cardenas of Massapequa, majoring in Electrical Engineering; Laura Chen of Farmingdale, majoring in Accounting; Catherine Clyne of Massapequa Park, majoring in Unde-

cided-Hclas; Juliana Cole of Massapequa Park, majoring in Psychology; Tara Colonel of Massapequa, majoring in Nursing; Melissa Contreras of Massapequa, majoring in Criminology; Victoria Costa of Massapequa, majoring in Physician Assistant Studies; Samantha Cusano of Massapequa Park, majoring in Nursing; Madeline Dagger of Massapequa, majoring in Music Education; Alexa Dalton of Massapequa Park, majoring in Nursing; Christina Dalton of Massapequa Park, majoring in Early Childhood and Childhood Education; Christopher Delpennino of Massapequa Park, majoring in Mechanical Engineering; Michael DeLuca of Massapequa, majoring in Management; Dana DeMarco of Massapequa, majoring in Nursing; Julia Duffy of Massapequa, majoring in Pre-Physician Assistant; James Eaton of Massapequa Park, majoring in Undecided-Business; Kaitlyn Elcik of N. Massapequa, majoring in Psychology; Ryan Fass of Massapequa Park, majoring in Early Childhood and Childhood Education; Anthony Favilla of Farmingdale, majoring in Journalism; Marissa Ferrara of Massapequa, majoring in English; John Ferretti of Massapequa, majoring in Film Studies and Production; Zachary Ferrity of Massapequa, majoring in Accounting; Jonas Fredonis of Massapequa, majoring in English; Jessica Gilberg of Farmingdale, majoring in Business Analytics; Adam Gordon of Farmingdale, majoring in Business Analytics; Andrew Groschke of Massapequa, majoring in Criminology; Charles Hart of Massapequa, majoring in Community Health; Chloe Hoehman of Massapequa Park, majoring in Exercise Physiology; Karn Jaswal of Massapequa, majoring in Political Science; Andraya Karamoshos of Massapequa, majoring in Pre-Early Childhood and Childhood Education; Sukhman Kaur of Massapequa, majoring in Management; Camden Kelly of Farmingdale, majoring in Computer Science and Cybersecurity; Owen Kelly of Massapequa, majoring in Finance; Suhaima Khwaja of Farmingdale, majoring in Physician Assistant Studies; Jenna Konsky of Massapequa, majoring in Nursing; Chloe Kort of Farmingdale, majoring in Dance; Karli Langer of Massapequa, majoring in Marketing; Jessica LeMay of Massapequa, majoring in Journalism;

Dylan Lessne of Massapequa, majoring in Exercise Physiology; Regina Lin of Farmingdale, majoring in Finance; Michael Lios of Massapequa, majoring in Finance; Sarah Loaiza of Farmingdale, majoring in Community Health; Matthew Maidat of Massapequa, majoring in Political Science; Nicholas Matzerath of Massapequa, majoring in Political Science; Emily Mauro of Massapequa Park, majoring in Psychology; Yusra Mir of Farmingdale, majoring in Biology; Anthony Mollica of Massapequa Park, majoring in Finance; Thomas Montana of Massapequa, majoring in Journalism; Madison Pickelny of Massapequa, majoring in Early Childhood and Childhood Education; Nadiye Pinarli of N. Massapequa, majoring in English; Isabella Prestia of Massapequa Park, majoring in Community Health; James Ranallo of Massapequa Park, majoring in Physical Education and Health; Anthony Ranieri of N. Massapequa, majoring in Television Production and Studies; Michael Ranieri of Farmingdale, majoring in Information Systems; Olivia Remusat of Farmingdale, majoring in Video/Television; Julia Riddle of Massapequa, majoring in Finance; Isabella Ritieni of Massapequa, majoring in Early Childhood and Childhood Education; Brandy Romano of Massapequa, majoring in Pre-Physician Assistant; Raquel Ruggiero of Massapequa, majoring in Marketing; Alyssa Sergio of Massapequa, majoring in Early Childhood and Childhood Education; Thomas Shea of Massapequa Park, majoring in Computer Science; Nicholas Spataro of Massapequa Park, majoring in Management; Raymond Spinelli of Massapequa Park, majoring in Engineering Science; Michael Spoto of Massapequa Park, majoring in Business Analytics; Skylar Studdert of Massapequa, majoring in Early Childhood and Childhood Education; Michael Taiano of Massapequa, majoring in Sports Management; Benjamin Taylor of Massapequa, majoring in Music Education; Lynn-z Tillis of Massapequa, majoring in Early Childhood and Childhood Education; Isabella Uberti of Massapequa, majoring in Speech-Language Hearing Science; James Van Eron of Massapequa Park, majoring in Undecided-Business; and Kellsie Verdone of Massapequa Park, majoring in Mass Media Studies.

Long Island tops NYC in All-Star Classic

By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

Donning the uniforms of the past two collegiate national champions, Ohio State and Michigan, respectively, added a special touch to last Saturday’s inaugural National Football Foundation All-Star Classic featuring the top high school seniors from Long Island and New York City at Hofstra’s Shuart Stadium.

After the Boomer Esiason Foundation enjoyed a tremendous 24-year run presenting the Empire Challenge game culminating in 2019, its replacement

made a striking debut despite real-feel temperatures in the upper 80s.

Long Island, behind Islip quarterback Brady Nash, Garden City running back Michael Berkery, Westhampton kicker/safety Brody Schaffer and a run defense as stifling as the weather, led after every quarter of a 33-15 victory before a crowd of 1,500. Nash completed 10 of 14 passes for 177 yards and two touchdowns and ran for a score to earn the Boomer Esiason Player of the Game award.

“The last time this game was played, we were all in sixth grade,” said Nash, who completed scoring strikes to Berk-

ery and Half Hollow Hills West’s Jesse Brooks. “As the week went on, it got more and more serious. You could tell how much it meant to everyone,” he added.

Schaffer went 4-for-4 on extra points, booted a 24-yard field goal and had a game-sealing interception late in the fourth quarter, and Massapequa’s Tyler Villalta added a touchdown run for Long Island, which compiled a topnotch coaching staff led by Garden City’s Dave Ettinger.

Carey head coach Mike Stanley, who led the Seahawks to last season’s LI Class II title and a perfect 12-0 campaign, served as the offensive coordinator. Reade Sands, who coached Sayville to the Suffolk Division III title last fall, ran the defense. Additional highly successful coaches on the L.I. staff were Manhasset’s Jay Iaquinta, who enjoyed lengthy stints in Lynbrook and Hewlett, Wantagh’s Keith Sachs, who led the Warriors to the Conference IV title last fall, Oceanside’s Rob Blount, Longwood’s Sean Kluber, Half Hollow Hills East’s Alex Marcelin, BayportBlue Point’s Mike Zafonte and St. Anthony’s Joe Minucci.

Angelo Portillo (Sachem North) formed a wall all afternoon.

Long Island’s lead swelled to 23-9 by halftime. An early turning point came on the first play of the second quarter when a bad snap over the head of New York City punter Andrew Stosko (Xaverian) resulted in a safety to make it 9-3.

“This is such an awesome experience for the kids,” Stanley said. “Their attention to detail in practice was outstanding and they did a really nice job of executing on both sides of the ball.”

Lincoln’s quarterback-receiver tandem of Kory Reese and Solomon DeCoteau hooked up for both New York City touchdowns.

New York City/Erasmus Hall head coach Danny Landberg said logistics were a challenge and several obstacles prevented the team from having a full roster at any practice. “It was fun to be a part of this but it was really difficult to come to Long Island two hours each way for practices,” he said. “We made four of the eight sessions and attendance varied.”

Long Island trailed 3-0 before Nash directed an 11-play, 68-yard scoring drive capped by his 2-yard touchdown run. The starting O-line with center Clint Chichester (Longwood), tackles Dylan Kakareko (Oceanside) and Howie Silverstein (Carey), and guards Brennan Kurtz (Ward Melville) and

Carey’s Chrisian Todaro returned the ensuing free kick 26 yards to the NYC 35 and Long Island’s offense needed only four plays to take a 16-3 lead on Villalta’s 2-yard touchdown run. Both offenses reached paydirt on their next possessions. A 40-yard pass from Reese to another Lincoln teammate, Gicah Paul, set up DeCoteau’s 12-yard touchdown grab to cut the margin to 16-9 after a failed two-point conversion try. Long Island answered with Berkery’s 37-yard touchdown catch.

Long Island’s defense, led by run stuffers Bellport’s Trevon Holland and Wantagh’s Shareef McMillian, pitched a shutout in the third quarter and Schaffer’s field goal extended the lead to 26-9 entering the fourth.

Freeport’s Curtis Ealy III and Bayport-Blue Point’s Dylan Spano had sacks for Long Island, which outgained NYC by a 339-232 margin.

“We got the win and it was so much fun,” Nash said. “I’m a Notre Dame fan but it’s cool we get to keep these jerseys.”

Michael Berkery (Garden City) had one of Long Island’s touchdowns, a 37-yard reception in the second quarter.

photos by Derrick Dingle/Herald

Long Island’s Dillon Tveter (Oceanside) avoided New York City’s Saquonne Lawton (Curtis) during last Saturday’s National Football Foundation’s All-Star Classic.

Driving the future:

Southern State upgrades and the role of responsible driving

By MADISON GUSLER & CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD of the Heralds

Final part in a series on the Southern State Parkway.

State.

In April, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced a $7 million plan to reconfigure ramps at Exit 15 of the parkway. The state will eliminate the southbound exit ramp, and all traffic will exit via a redesigned northbound ramp. Exit 15N will consolidate both north- and southbound traffic entering the intersection at Corona Avenue. The changes aim to improve traffic flow for the more than 8,000 vehicles that use those ramps each day.

The Southern State Parkway is one of the busiest highways in New York state. It opened in 1927, and its original design has not been able to meet the demands of Long Island’s increased population and consistent roadway congestion, which has resulted in many deadly crashes.

Nearly 100 years later, work on the 25.3-mile parkway has ramped up, in an effort to ensure the roadway’s safety, and longevity.

Stephen Canzoneri, a public information officer for the state Department of Transportation Region 10, noted that New York has one of the most aggressive road and bridge renewal programs in the United States, and that it is investing more in the modernization of its transportation infrastructure now than at any point in the state’s history.

Upgrading Infrastructure to improve safety

Canzoneri explained that a $34.1 billion, five-year capital plan adopted in 2022 to invest in major infrastructure projects is the largest of its kind in state history. This plan, which is entering its fourth year, includes substantial investments in modernizing roads and bridges on Long Island, including the Southern

At the end of the ramp, a new traffic signal will be installed, as well as crosswalks, a pedestrian refuge island, and Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant sidewalk ramps. The westbound connection to the parkway from Corona Avenue will be enlarged for easier left turns, accompanied by improved signage to better direct drivers.

There will also be a reconfiguring of Exit 13, with a new single exit ramp providing access to both Central Avenue and Linden Boulevard. The entrance ramp from Central Avenue to the eastbound Southern State will be rebuilt, the traffic signal will be updated with pedestrian countdown timers, and the sidewalks along Central Avenue, between Stuart Avenue and Linden Boulevard, will be improved. This project is currently in the design phase, with construction expected to begin construction in 2027 Enhancements at Exit 41A, from the eastbound Southern State to the northbound Sagtikos State Parkway, include increased safety measures. In 2024, new

reflective signs were installed and pavement markings were added. This year the ramp will undergo concrete pavement work, and a new concrete barrier will be installed.

Between 2021 and 2024, a significant portion of the parkway and several ramps were resurfaced with new asphalt, and highly reflective pavement markings were installed in an effort to increase driver safety. In an email to the Herald, Assemblyman Michael Durso, whose District 9 encompasses towns in both Nassau and Suffolk counties, wrote that in 2023, Wrong Way and Do Not Enter signs were refreshed or installed at all parkway ramps.

“Safety is always the top priority of the New York State Department of Transportation,” Canzoneri said. “We

continuously review safety measures in place on all our highways on Long Island and across the state, implementing enhancements wherever it is necessary.”

Safety improvements rely on responsible driving Canzoneri noted that safety is everyone’s responsibility.

“Working with our partners in law enforcement, local government and the community, we will continue to do our part to ensure the safety of our roadways. But motorists must do their part,” he said. “We urge everyone to obey the rules of the road, drive responsibly and remain alert, especially in work zones.”

Durso echoed Cazoneri’s sentiment

Traffic building on a typical day on the westbound Southern State Parkway.

Office of Congresswoman Laura Gillen

U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen speaking on driver safety.

Planners hope to create a safer Southern State

that safety is a shared responsibility, writing that “all of the wrong way crashes that occur along the Southern State Parkway have involved impaired drivers.”

However, Durso noted an ongoing effort to address roads that have become unsafe. “As Assemblyman, I continue to work with the New York State Department of Transportation to pass along concerns from constituents and identify areas that can be improved,” he said. “Safety is my top priority.”

U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen, who represents the 4th Congressional District, which includes Exits 13 to 28 on the parkway, serves on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, as well as the Science, Space and Technology Committee. Gillen recently sent an open letter to Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy about a spike in traffic fatalities.

Working with our partners in law enforcement, government and the community, we will continue to do our part to ensure the safety of our roadways, but motorists must do their part.

STEPHEN CANzONERI State Dept. of Transportation

“Traffic crashes are the single leading cause of accidental death among young people on Long Island, and the second-leading cause for all residents under the age of eighty,” she wrote. “Every seven minutes on average, a serious traffic accident happens on Long Island. The failure to secure our roads has led to thousands of lives being cut short, families being ripped apart, and a terrible void left in too many communities.”

Gillen urged Duffy and the DOT to open an investigation into these accidents, and advocated for larger investments to improve roadways and increase driver safety. She is also pushing for the state to lower the legal blood alcohol limit.

“Many road safety groups have endorsed lowering our drunk-driving limit to a blood alcohol content of .05,” Gillen wrote in an email to the Herald, noting evidence that lowering the limit reduces the number of accidents and saves lives. She noted that the state of Utah, which lowered its drunk-driving threshold to .05 in 2018, saw a nearly 20 percent drop in fatal car crashes over the next calendar year.

“There is already a push to bring this limit to New York at the state level, and I’m exploring federal options to make this the law of the land across America,” she wrote.

Gillen also mentioned distracted

SOUTHERN STATE PARKWAY - EXIT 15

New York State Department of Transportation

a draft of plans for the Southern State parkway’s exit 15, where two exits are being replaced by one.

the parkway near exit 13. “We need to increase high-visibility traffic enforcement,”

driving and speeding motorists. “My plan to make our roads safer includes stepping up enforcement on reckless and dangerous driving,” she wrote.

“That means giving our law enforcement agencies the tools and resources to police unsafe driving.”

Gillen stated that it’s crucial that

drivers reduce their speeds. “No matter what day or time you drive on the Southern State Parkway, there are people recklessly speeding and street racing,” she wrote. “We need to increase highvisibility traffic enforcement, and I’ll continue to push for New York State to increase the number of troopers on the

Southern State Parkway and other Long Island roads to keep people safe.”

“It’s important to remember that safety is everyone’s responsibility,” Durso wrote. “We remind residents to abide by the posted speed limit, put down your cellphone, and never drink and drive.”

Tim Baker/Herald

u.S. rep. Laura gillen says.

Class of 2025 valedictorians and salutatorians

saluted by Nassau County school superintendents

The Nassau County Council of School Superintendents honored valedictorians and salutatorians from the county’s public high schools for their outstanding academic achievements during its annual Celebrating Excellence Breakfast at the Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury on June 5.

The Class of 2025 honorees were joined at the breakfast by their superintendents, principals and family members. As guests arrived, they were greeted in the lobby with a musical performance by the Mineola High School String Ensemble, under the direction of Tracey Campbell. The Hicksville High School Chamber Singers, directed by Arielle Siegel, performed the national anthem and “Tipitin,” arranged by Raul Dominquez. Members of Westbury High School’s Junior ROTC assisted with the program.

Dr. Mary O’Meara, superintendent of Plainview-Old Bethpage Central School District, welcomed guests, introduced the executive committee members and leaders, and praised students for their accomplishments.

NCCSS President Paul Defendini, who is Farmingdale Superintendent of Schools, provided the opening remarks, stressing to students the importance of identifying their superpower and using that power responsibly.

“Don’t rise for yourself alone,” said Defendini. “Lead with kindness, stand up for what is right and serve your community with integrity. That is when your superpower will truly become great.”

Keynote speaker Michael Dowling, president and CEO of Northwell Health, shared his experiences growing up in extreme poverty in Ireland and how the challenges he faced, and his precarious educational and career journey, prepared him for success.

Dowling told students to look around them and see the people who helped get them to this point. “Success is never a solo act,” he said. “It’s built on the shoulders of the people who support you, challenge you, and lift you when you fall.” He reminded students that relationships matter more than technology

and noted that while AI is a helpful tool, it possesses no empathy or emotional intelligence.

“Use technology wisely,” he said. “But don’t let it replace human connection.”

Dowling concluded by encouraging the students to be adventurous, take risks, try new things and don’t be afraid to fail. “Leave a trail. Don’t just follow the path—make one that others can follow and be proud of,” he said.

As the superintendents who serve on the Celebrating Excellence Committee announced the names of each valedictorian and salutatorian along with the colleges they plan to attend and their anticipated majors, each received a plaque to commemorate their achievements.

The event also serves as an annual tribute to the legacy of Dr. James Tolle, former NCCSS executive director, who left an indelible mark on education in Nassau County and across New York state.

Photos Courtesy/Massapequa school district

Nassau County Class of 2025 valedictorians were recognized during the NCCSS annual Celebrating Excellence Breakfast.

Nassau County Class of 2025 salutatorians were recognized during the NCCSS annual Celebrating Excellence Breakfast.

Vacation Bible School now set at Community United Methodist Church

Vacation Bible School at Community United Methodist Church will be taking place August 11 through August 15. The school is open to ages 4 through 11. Please note that your child must be potty-trained.

The cost is $25 per child if you register prior to August 3. After August 3, the cost will be $30. Payment is by cash or check and is due the first day of camp.

VBS adventures include daily deep-

sea voyages into Bible fun with stories, games, crafts, mission work, water science, snack and music, and will take place each day from 9:15 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

Visit cumcmassapequa.org to register. For more information, call (516) 5417008 or email massapcumc@aol.com Community United Methodist Church is located at 100 Park Blvd., Massapequa.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

THURSDAY, JUNE 26

•The Long Island Dahlia Society: 9 a.m., Bayard Cutting Arboretum, 440 Montauk Highway, Great River. All are welcome. Come and learn how to care for your dahlias. For more information, call (631) 972-8829 (leave message) or visit longislanddahlia.org.

•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) 624-6333.

•Massapequa School District Board of Education public session meeting: 8 p.m., Board Room, 4925 Merrick Rd., Massapequa. For more information, call (516) 3085000.

FRIDAY, JUNE 27

•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631)789-2569.

SATURDAY, JUNE 28

• The Long Island Dahlia Society: 9 a.m., Bayard Cutting Arboretum, 440 Montauk Highway., Great River. All are welcome. Come and learn how to care for your dahlias. For more information, call (631)-972-8829 (leave message) or visit longislanddahlia. org.

SUNDAY, JUNE 29

•Farmingdale Farmers Market: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Village Green, 361 Main St., Farmingdale. For more information, call (516) 2490093.

•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631) 789-2569.

TUESDAY, JULY 1

•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, JULY 2

•Massapequa School District Board of Education publicsession meeting: 8 p.m., Board Room, 4925 Merrick Rd., Massapequa. For more information, call (516) 3085000.

• 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) 2207808. All calls are confidential.

• The Long Island Dahlia Society: 9 a.m., Bayard Cutting Arboretum, 440 Montauk Highway., Great River. All are welcome. Come and learn how to care for your dahlias. For more information call (631) 972-8829 (leave message) or visit longislanddahlia. org.

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.

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BUSINESS BEAT

Security Dodge opens new service center

Security Dodge in Amityville just opened a new quick-service facility for oil changes, brakes, tires and other maintenance items.

“We’re expanding our capacity to help our customer base. Helps to speed things up- get customers in and out quicker,” said Emily Santosus, executive assistant at Security Dodge. “Come on down and check out the new facility. And take advantage of our specials.

Security Dodge is located at 345 Merrick Rd., Amityville. They can be reached at 631 240-0824 or at www.securitydodgechrysler.net

At right, Security Dodge owners, Gabriel Vigorito and JJ Vigorito cut the ribbon on their new facility, joined by the company’s personnel and public officials, including Amityville Village Mayor Michael O’Neill.

Massapequa Historical Society

looking for your best shot

The Massapequa Historical Society’s annual photo contest is now open. Photographers can submit their most beautiful landscape and nature photos from in and around Massapequa as well as photos of Massapequa-related events. The photos will be judged and winning

selections will be placed in the historical society’s 2026 calendar.

This year, there is a new subcategory: Then and Now.

Deadline for entering your work is June 28. For more information, go to massapequahistoricalsociety.org

Business Beat promotional items are printed at no cost as space permits. Local businesses who have an item they would like considered for this column can send it to the editor: cjames@liherald.com

Christie Leigh Babirad/HERALD

Shown in photo cutting the ribbon are Security Dodge owners Gabriel Vigoritto and JJ Vigorito, together with Amityville Mayor Michael O’Neill and NYS Assemblyman Kwani O’Pharrow, and members of the Security Dodge community.

JULY

Your Health

This Your Health edition highlights mental health—an essential yet often overlooked part of wellness—offering expert advice, local resources, and real stories to support emotional well-being and manage stress, anxiety, and depression.

Summer Dining

Explore the best of seasonal flavors with our Summer Dining special section—featuring local hotspots, refreshing recipes, outdoor eats, and tips for savoring summer bites.

Get ready for a successful school year with our Back to School special section—featuring tips, supplies, schedules, local resources, and everything students need to thrive.

Great Homes showcases current listings, local realtors, and real estate services. Larger ads and targeted distribution make it the perfect way to grow your business.

Massapequa Coast’s end-of-season picnic draws a happy throng

The Massapequa Coast Little League hosted its annual end-of-season T-Ball and Coach Pitch picnic on Tues., June 17, at John J. Burns Park, drawing more than 3,000 attendees despite overcast skies.

More than 500 players from the league’s four lower divisions, along with approximately 2,500 family members, enjoyed an afternoon of food, festivities and fun. Children played on three giant inflatable attractions, giving the event an amusement park feel.

To create a picnic atmosphere, the league rented 100 tables and 500 chairs.

In addition to grilling free hot dogs and providing bottled water, each team brought its own assortment of snacks and refreshments to share at their team tables.

The event began with an opening ceremony on the park’s Major Field. Each team was introduced and lined the outfield warning track before the playing of the national anthem. Following the ceremony, children were able to enjoy the inflatable rides.

Every player received a personalized award in recognition of their season. Players in the Squirts Division received

medals, while those in the T-Ball, Sandlot and Rookies divisions received trophies engraved with their names.

This year’s picnic was supported by a $3,000 donation from Mike Gentile of Genstar Masonry, helping offset the event’s estimated $10,000 cost. It marked Gentile’s second year sponsoring the event; he contributed $5,000 in 2024. Additionally, Kevin Podmore of More Juice

donated 1,200 hot dogs for the celebration.

“This event takes a lot of planning, coordination and legwork from a very dedicated board of directors,” said Craig Garland, president of Massapequa Coast. “They do it all as volunteers, out of love and pride in the community, and to see all those happy faces celebrating their baseball season.”

Read the Massapequa Herald Post

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ULTIMATE TICKETS

One lucky member of the audience will WIN 2 TICKETS to watch New York Mets vs San Fransisco Giants at Citi Field.

Sunday, August 3 at 1:40 p.m.

Contest ends July 27 at midnight with the winner chosen on July 28

Directions for ticket acquisition will be explained when winner is contacted.

Love Local News? Looking to join a team with purpose?

The Herald is hiring a Newsroom Coordinator to power our opinion pages, manage special sections, and help keep our 27 editions running strong. You’ll work side-by-side with editors, writers, and digital teams—all from our Garden City newsroom.

It’s fast-paced. It’s meaningful. It’s your first step into the heart of journalism.

• Coordinate columnists across 27 local editions

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Last Hope Animal Rescue Awarded $10K Grant From Petco Love

Great news! Last Hope Animal Rescue has received a $10,000 grant from Petco Love to help cover veterinary care for special needs cats and dogs in its adoption program.

The funding will be used for medical care beyond routine procedures such as spay/neuter surgeries, vaccinations and flea treatments — the largest expense for many animal rescues.

Pets, Pets, Pets...

JOANNE ANDERSON

Established in 1981, Last Hope specializes in accepting cats and dogs that require advanced veterinary care, including heartwormpositive dogs, animals with epilepsy or eye issues, and pets needing orthopedic surgery. The organization also treats contagious illnesses like kennel cough and respiratory infections that can spread quickly in multi-animal settings and sometimes require hospitalization. Since the pandemic, veterinary costs have soared, while Last Hope’s intake has increased 15% from 913 animals in 2020 to 1,038 in 2024. Procedures that once cost $1,000 may now cost double. In 2023, the organization spent about $55,000 on veterinary care for special needs animals. In the first six months of 2024, costs have already surpassed $35,000.

An increasing number of pets also ar-

rive with dental issues.

“Last year, a dental procedure for a 5-year-old cat named Baxter cost over $3,000. Poor Baxter had 18 rotted teeth removed,” said Linda Stuurman, president of Last Hope.

Sometimes we know about the medical problems a pet has before accepting the dog or cat into our adoption program; but often, we have no knowledge until the pet begins to display abnormal behavior or exhibit physical symptoms while in our care. In many cases, we seek the expertise of a specialist veterinarian which is quite costly.

About Petco Love

Petco Love, formerly the Petco Foundation, is a national nonprofit dedicated to making communities and pet families healthier by investing in lifesaving animal welfare efforts. Since its founding in 1999, Petco Love has invested $421 million in lifesaving efforts, and helped place more than 7 million pets in loving homes through partnerships with Petco and more than 4,000 animal welfare organizations across North America.

Our investment in Last Hope is part of more than $15 million in investments recently announced by Petco Love to power local organizations across the country as part of our commitment to create a

future in which no pet is unnecessarily euthanized,” said Susanne Kogut, president of Petco Love. “Our local investments are only part of our strategy to empower animal lovers to drive lifesaving change right alongside us.”

Last Hope cats are available for adoption at Petco locations in Wantagh and Plainview.

Featured Pets for Adoption

•Tulip, a beautiful 2-year-old calico found nursing kittens in Hewlett.

•Fender, a 9-year-old Beagle originally from the Town of Brookhaven Shelter. He enjoys outdoor adoption events. Adoption Information

Location: 3300 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh, NY 11793. Phone: 631-671-2588

LAST HOPE POSTER PETS:

Fender - 9 year old

Beagle

- 2 year old

Calico

STEPPING OUT

From fire to water

Embracing Indigenous tradtion at Long Island Children’s Museum

By Danielle Schwab

The proud culture and legacy of Shinnecock Nation will be full display soon, representing the region’s cherished heritage. Everyone is invited to celebrate the arrival of a newly crafted dugout canoe at the museum, on June 30.

The Arrival Ceremony — 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. — is an opportunity for connection with our Indigenous community. Traditional songs, music and remarks from community leaders and culture bearers provide gratitude, context and a spiritual welcome as the canoe is greeted at its new home. Families can also participate in hands-on activities and sample traditional Native foods.

• June 30, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

• View the LICM events calendar at licm.org for additional information or call (516) 224-5800

• Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City

The 10-foot 500-pound white pine mishoon, commissioned by Long Island Children’s Museum, was created through the collaboration of Shinnecock Cultural Steward Chenae Bullock, her mentor Darius Coombs of the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe and apprentice Shane Weeks of the Shinnecock Nation.

Named “Pewea Koowa,” or “Little Pine,” the vessel reflects the enduring relationship between Long Island’s waterways and the Indigenous communities who have lived in balance with the region’s waterways for generations.

“One of the most important things is for us to understand that the indigenous population is still here, as an active, living part of our community. We’re often taught ‘that’s the old times’ or ‘that was hundreds of years ago,’ when actually, no, they’re here. They’re part of us,” Museum President Erika Floreska says.

Carving the mishoon involves deep care — rooted in ancestral knowledge. It was crafted by hollowing out a 1,700-pound white pine tree using fire, controlled burning and hand tools — a method passed down through the generations.

“The best way to learn is to be an apprentice, because you have to know how to identify the right tree for the vessel,” says Bullock, who guided the project (her seventh mishoon) as lead artisan.

“You strip the bark off. You get the log right where you want it to be. Then, you roll it over and begin to start the fire on top of the log,” Bullock explains. “Once you light that fire, your eyes do not leave that mishoon at all. You are on that mishoon until it is complete.

“Paddling a mishoon in Shinnecock waters was a profoundly special experience for me. Throughout my life, I have crafted numerous mishoons, participated in a handful of maiden voyages, and paddled in many of them. However, this particular journey was unparalleled, as it took place in my home waters. Water holds memory, and I believe that in this moment, we unlocked memories for our community, as well as for the land and water that we cherish.”

Symbols carved into the vessel offer further cultural meaning. Bullock added a whale tail to honor the importance of whales in Indigenous life here.

“It begins to teach the kids what these mishoons were used for. It’s kind of hard for people to think about how our ancestors took these mishoons and actually hunted whales. Whales are a big part of our culture,” Bullock adds.

The mishoon will be placed in the museum’s upcoming permanent exhibit, “Saltwater Stories: We Need the Sea and the Sea Needs Me”, opening In October.

“It’s important to celebrate what makes Long Island unique and this connection to the ocean, but also our responsibility for taking care of it. The mishoon is a really good representation of the history, the ecology and the climate,” Floreska says.

In the spirit of reciprocity, resources for a second mishoon will be gifted to the Shinnecock community in September.

“The tradition of gifting and showing reciprocity in relationships is very important to represent the balance between each other. The idea of them gifting [the mishoon] to us, us gifting to them, is very symbolic,” she adds.

Everyone can also contribute to the making of a wampum belt from quahog clam shells, led by artist and educator Tecumseh Caesar during the event.

This ongoing collaboration between Indigenous communities and the museum offers meaningful ways for families to explore deep connections — not only to the land and water, but to histories that continue to shape the present.

“There’s a whole culture that we’ve inherited and that we have a responsibility to include and think about as we all work together to shape the future,” Floreska reminds us all.

finished

Get The Led Out

Led Zeppelin fans, rejoice! Get The Led Out returns with “A Celebration of the Mighty Zep,” for two electrifying nights of classic rock, The six veteran musicians who make up the Philadelphia-based group delivers Led Zeppelin live with the all passion and fury these bluessoaked, groove-driven rock anthems deserve. Hailed for their powerful tribute to what many consider the greatest rock band of all time, the band delivers a faithful and highoctane recreation of Zeppelin’s iconic sound. From thunderous anthems to mystical acoustic ballads, GTLO captures the full range of Led Zeppelin’s brilliance — complete with the layered instrumentation and soaring dynamics that the band rarely performed live. . With no wigs or phony accents, just pure musical passion, GTLO focuses on the legendary band’s early years and dives deep into beloved hits and rare cuts alike. Their approach is reverent and precise, more like a classical concert than a cover band — a true celebration of timeless rock.

Friday and Saturday, June 27-28, 8 p.m. $75, $45, $35. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Paula Poundstone

Get ready for an evening of razor-sharp humor and brilliantly unpredictable comedy with the one and only Paula Poundstone. When she’s not dishing out laughs as a beloved panelist on NPR, she’s hosting her wildly popular podcast, Nobody Listens to Paula Poundstone. It’s a quirky “comedy field guide to life,” filled with offbeat segments like taste tests, “cat of the week” tributes, and interviews. Her stand-up résumé is as robust as it is hilarious, with HBO specials like “Cats, Cops and Stuff, Goes to Harvard” and “Look What the Cat Dragged In.” In 2017, she added “bestselling author” to her list of accomplishments with “The Totally Unscientific Study Of The Search For Human Happiness “— a laugh-out-loud account of her quirky quest for joy. Oh, and if her voice sounds familiar to your kids? That’s because she played Forgetter Paula in “Disney/Pixar’s Inside Out.”

Friday, June 27, 8 p.m. $65, $55, $45. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

JUNE

26

Empowered Caregiver: Faith-Based Breakfast

Register for a special faithbased breakfast for caregivers, arranged by the Alzheimer’s Association, will be taking place on July 12 and registration is now open.

• Where: Bethel Christian Center, 5715 Merrick Road, Massapequa

• Time: 9 a.m.-noon

• Contact: (800) 272-3900

LIMEHOF Summer Band Camp

High school vocalists and musicians can participate in the Summer Band Camp Program. Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, LIMEHOF, hosts its first All-Star Band Camp for high school students in grades 9-12. The week-long program runs from July 28 through Aug. 1, 9-11:30 a.m. each day and concludes with a final concert on Aug. 3 at 3 p.m. $350 fee. To apply, email student’s name, age, specific instrument or vocalist, and contact information to Tom Needham. The application deadline has been extended to June 30.

• Contact: (631) 689-5888, info@limusichalloffame.org

Town of Oyster Bay Workforce Partnership

Job training opportunities are currently available through the Town’s Workforce Partnership. The Workforce Partnership offers eligible job seekers the opportunity to advance their career with grant funding for training and certification through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act. Training opportunities are available in various fields.

• Contact: (516) 797-4560, shorturl.at/lJv0r

JUNE

28

In concert Massapequa Public Library hosts vocalists

Dave Anthony Settuducati and Paula Cali. The duo performs some of the greatest hits of the golden age of ItalianAmerican music including “My Way”, “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” “Beyond the Sea,”

“Just a Gigolo,” “Where the Boys Are,” “Non Dimenticar,” “The Wanderer,” “That’s Amore,” and many others. Dave will also add some interesting banter about the songs and the artists. Registration required.

• Where: 40 Harbor Lane, Massapequa Park

• Time: 2-3:30 p.m.

He said, she said

JULY

• Contact: (516) 735-4133 or plainedgelibrary.libcal.com/ event/14240242

JULY 1

Summer Concert Series

The Town of Oyster Bay concert series welcomes The Allmost Brothers Band, with their tribute to the Allman Brothers Band at Ellsworth W. Allen Town Park. Bring seating. Performances are subject to change and will be held weather permitting.

• Where: 45 Motor Ave., Farmingdale

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 797-7925 or oysterbaytown.com/summer

• Where: Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington

• Time: 7:30 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 767-6444 or landmarkonmainstreet.org

Share in some lively repartee when four stand-up comedians — two men, two women, two are married, two are single — sling comedy barbs at one another in The Ivy League of Comedy’s “Skirmish of the Sexes.” The troupe — known for their elite brand of clever comedy as seen on late-night TV and Comedy Central appearances — is armed and ready with high-brow, clean fun. Laugh the night away wty tales of love and not-love, bad dinners and good dates, broken cars and unbroken dreams. Check out this lively comic take on the age-old dichotomy of who’s right and who’s wrong — done with panache and good humor. The lineup features Tony Deyo, known for his sharp, quick material and near-perfect comedic timing almost certainly gained from his years as a professional symphony musician; Calise Hawkins, a single mom who stands out with her hair, but also her smile and her onstage likability. Also Shaun Eli, rightfully called one of America’s smartest comics. Whether it’s a story about dining with a vegetarian or successfully fighting a parking ticket in criminal court, master storyteller Shaun Eli shows you that there’s hilarity in the ordinary. And Ophira Eisenberg (pictured), host of the comedy podcast Parenting Is A Joke with iHeart and Pretty Good Friends, who delivers a unique blend of smart irreverent standup and storytelling. $40, $30.

• Contact: (516) 798-4607 ext. 6304 or massapequa. librarycalendar.com/event/ music-italy-26317

On Exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art’s unveils its new exhibition, “At Play,” a survey of artists’ perennial fascination with entertainment in all forms. Framing this topic between the nineteenth century Belle Époque and today, the exhibit includes works by Pablo Picasso, Reginald Marsh, Everett Shinn, and Max Beckmann among many others. Works are gathered to represent a wide range of expressions, from entertainmentrelated activities to the fascinating personalities involved. It encompasses dance, music, theater, movies, circus, boating, and beach scenes, along with horseracing and various sports, both active and passive Also featured are archival items from The Metropolitan Opera and the New York Philharmonic, including costumes by Marc Chagall for Die Zauberflöte, vintage fashion items by such designers as Alfred Shaheen, and iconic costumes from the Folies-Bergère in Paris. On view June 28 to Nov. 9.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: Ongoing

• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame honors The Hassles

LIMEHOF inducts Long Island’s own 1960s era seminal rock-soul group, The Hassles, who are best known as Billy Joel’s first major record label band.

LIMEHOF inductee Liberty DeVitto (of Billy Joel’s band) is expected to officially induct the group. With performances from LIMEHOF inductees, including the hit-making duo The Alessi Brothers, and twotime inductee drummer Mike Ricciardella of Barnaby Bye and The Illusion. $50.

• Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: limusichalloffame.org

JUNE 29

Farmers Market

The Farmingdale Farmers Market by Schneider’s Farm is open weekly until Nov. 23, weather permitting, at Farmingdale Village Green.

• Where: 361 Main St., Farmingdale

• Time: Sundays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 249-0093

Art of Poetry: Readings by Nassau County Poet Laureates

Visit Nassau County Museum of Art for this inaugural poetry event. Join current Nassau County Poet Laureate, writermusician-educator Alan Semerdjian who hosts readings by former Laureates Paula Curci, Evelyn Kandel, Linda Opyr, and Gayl Teller. Readings will respond to the artwork on view in NCMA’s new exhibition “At Play: Artists & Entertainment.” Pre-registration recommended. $15, $10 seniors, $5 children, members free.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: 4-6 p.m.

• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

Movie Night

JUNE

30

Cool of with a movie at Plainedge Public Library. See “A Complete Unknown,” the recent biopic the relates the how an unknown 19-year-old Bob Dylan arrived in New York City with his guitar and forged relationships with musical icons on his meteoric rise. Registration is required.

• Where: 1060 Hicksville Road, N. Massapequa

• Time: 6-8:30 p.m.

Farmingdale Library Cinema

Farmingdale Library Cinema shows the 2024 coming-of-age drama “In the Summers.” On a journey that spans their formative years, two sisters navigate their loving but volatile father during their yearly summer visits to his home in Las Cruces, New Mexico.

• Where: 116 Merritts Road, Farmingdale

• Time: 10 a.m.-noon.

• Contact: farmingdalelibrary.org or call (516) 249-9090

AUG

Vacation Bible School

Registration is open for VBS at Community United Methodist Church in August. The school is open to ages 4-11. VBS adventures include daily deep-sea voyages into Bible fun with stories, games, crafts, mission work, water science, snack and music. All children must be toilet-trained. $25 per child if registered prior to Aug. 3; $30 after that date. Payment is by cash or check and is due the first day of camp.

• Where: 100 Park Blvd., Massapequa

• Time: Aug. 11-15, 9:15 a.m.12:45 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 541-7008 or cumcmassapequa.org

Having an event? Items on the Calendar page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to kbloom@ liherald.com.

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

The Board of Education of the Plainedge Union Free School District invites the submission of Sealed Bid Proposals to furnish materials and labor to complete the Turf Field and Exterior Masonry Restoration Phase II at Plainedge Middle School in accordance with the plans and specifications for the following category(ies) of work: PLAINEDGE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT

TURF FIELD AND EXTERIOR MASONRY RESTORATION

PHASE II at Plainedge Middle School

Bid #25-001

SED No. 28-05-18-030-009-014

Plainedge Middle School

CONTRACT G-1: MASONRY CONSTRUCTION

CONTRACT C-1: SITE CONSTRUCTION

Sealed Bid Proposals will be received until 11:00 A.M. prevailing time on July 30, 2025 at the School District Administration Office, 241 Wyngate Drive, N. Massapequa, N.Y. 11758, at which time and place the bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. Any bid may be withdrawn without prejudice prior to the official bid opening time or any publicized postponement thereof. Any bid received after the time and date stated above will be returned to the bidder unopened. Bidders are solely responsible for the arrival of each bid at the School District Administration Office by the appointed time, regardless of the means of delivery. Bids must be presented on the standard bid proposal form(s)

in the manner designated therein and as required by the Specifications. All bids must be addressed to the Purchasing Agent, Justine Stringer, District Administration Building, 241 Wyngate Drive, N. Massapequa, N.Y. 11758. All bids shall be sealed and in an opaque envelope that is distinctly marked on the outside as follows: “Bid #25-001, Turf Field and Exterior Masonry Restoration Phase II at Plainedge Middle School” as required by the Bid Specifications. The name of the bidder, bidders address, and the name of the contract, and/or contracts being bid must also appear on the outside of the envelope. The Contract Documents may be examined at the Office of the Architect, Mark Design Studios Architecture, PC, 270 North Broadway, Hicksville New York, 516-8270240 (phone) during the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. excluding holidays. Bidders are encouraged to call ahead; however, the Contract Documents may only be obtained through the Office of REV, 28 Church Street, Suite #7, Warwick, NY 10990 (845651-3845) beginning on Wednesday, June 25, 2025.  Complete digital sets of Contract Documents shall be obtained online (with a free user account) as a download for a nonrefundable fee of One Hundred ($100.00) Dollars at the following website: www.mds. biddyhq.com under ‘public projects’. Optionally, in lieu of digital copies, hard copies may be obtained directly from REVplans upon a deposit of One Hundred ($100.00) Dollars for each complete set. Checks for deposits shall be made payable to Plainedge Union Free School

District, and may be uncertified. Plan deposit is refundable in accordance with the terms of the ‘Instructions to Bidders’ to all submitting bids. Bidding Document costs are refundable provided the documents are returned to REVplans within thirty (30) days of the Bid Opening, and are COMPLETE, UNMARKED and in NOT TORN condition. Any bidder requiring printed documents to be shipped shall make arrangements with the printer directly and pay for all packaging and shipping costs. All bid addenda will be transmitted to registered plan holders via email and will be available at the above. Any bidder requiring documents to be shipped shall make arrangements with the printer and pay for all packaging and shipping costs. Plan holders who have obtained hard copies of the bid documents will need to make the determination if hard copies of the addenda are required for their use, and coordinate directly with the printer for hard copies of addenda to be issued. There will be no charge for registered plan holders to obtain hard copies of the bid addenda. The bid deposit for hard copies will be returned upon receipt of plans and specifications, in good condition, within thirty days after bid date, except for the lowest responsible bidder, whose check will be forfeited upon the award of the contract.

A Pre-Bid conference and walk-through will be held promptly at 1:15 P.M. on Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at the Plainedge Middle School located at 200 Stewart Avenue, Bethpage NY 11714. All bidders shall meet at

Public Notices

the front entrance of the school. Prospective bidders are strongly encouraged to attend. Knowledge of the site is crucial to obtain a proper understanding of the Work. All bidders must be fully familiar with the site. Bidders shall visit the sites of proposed work and be fully familiarized with conditions as they exist, as well as the character of the operations to be carried on under the proposed contract. All visits must be scheduled & coordinated with Brett Prochazka, Director of Facilities, at (516) 992-7422 or by email to Brett.Prochazka@ plainedgeschools.org. Each bid must be accompanied by a certified check payable to PLAINEDGE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT or by a Bid Bond in an amount equal to ten percent (10%) of the bid conditioned as set forth in the “Instructions to Bidders” of the Bid Specifications. All bid security, except those of the three lowest bidders will be returned within ten (10) days after bids are submitted. The bid security provided by the three lowest bidders will be returned after the execution of the Trade Contract. The District will require the successful bidder to provide separate Performance and Labor & Materials Payment Bonds in the amount of the contract price and in the form specified in the Bid Documents. Each Bidder shall prepare their bid proposal, along with a bid security, in accordance with the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the “Instructions to Bidders” and Bid Specifications. Attention of bidders is particularly called to the prevailing wage rates to be paid under the contracts.

Wages to workers, laborers and mechanics employed to work on this project shall be paid in accordance with Section 220 of the Labor Law and in accordance with the Prevailing Rate Schedules found in the Project Manual. Proof of such payments will be required. The District will award a contract to the lowest responsible bidder providing the required security within fortyfive (45) days of the date opening of the bids. To the fullest extent allowed by law, the District further reserves the right to reject bids that contain conditions, omissions, exceptions or modifications, or in its sole discretion to waive any irregularities in the bids, or to reject any or all bids, or to accept any bid which in the opinion of the District is in its best interest.

Date: June 25, 2025 Board of Education Plainedge Union Free School District 241 Wyngate Drive N. Massapequa, NY 11758

Maureen Ryan, District Clerk 25-225. 6/25

Notice of formation of L. M. REALTOR & NOTARY PUBLIC AGENCY, LLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 05/09/2025

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 LLC, 19 Jersey Street., Hicksville NY 11801

Purpose: any lawful act.

25-211. 5/21, 28, 6/4, 11, 18, 25

Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA0341-25-116537 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 495 New St, Oceanside, NY 11572, County of Nassau, for on premises consumption at TIKI ON THE CANAL LLC. 25-221. 6/18, 25

Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA0370-25-116675 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 763 Hempstead Turnpike, Franklin Square, NY 11010, County of Nassau, for on premises consumption at Half Time LLC. 25-222. 6/18, 25

Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: CL-25102495-01 for liquor, beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor, beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 432 Jericho

Turnpike, Mineola, NY 11501, County of Nassau, for on premises consumption at Cugini Pizzeria & Ristorante Corp. 25-227. 6/25, 7/2

Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-0267-25117978 for beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Bar/Tavern under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 80A S Main Street, Freeport, NY 11520, County of Nassau, for on premises consumption at Bladys Restaurant Corp.  25-228. 6/25, 7/2

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

The Board of Education of the Plainedge Union Free School District invites the submission of Sealed Bid Proposals to furnish materials and labor to complete the First Floor Student ADA Toilet Alterations & Site Work at Charles E. Schwarting Elementary School in accordance with the plans and specifications for the following category(ies) of work: PLAINEDGE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT

FIRST FLOOR STUDENT ADA TOILET ALTERATIONS & SITE WORK at Charles E. Schwarting Elementary School Bid #25-002

SED No. 28-05-18-030-002-024

Charles E. Schwarting Elementary

CONTRACT G-1: GENERAL CONSTRUCTION

CONTRACT C-1: SITE CONSTRUCTION

Sealed Bid Proposals will be received until 11:00 A.M. prevailing time on July 31, 2025 at the School District Administration Office, 241 Wyngate Drive, N. Massapequa, N.Y. 11758, at which time and place the bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. Any bid may be withdrawn without prejudice prior to the official bid opening time or any publicized postponement thereof. Any bid received after the time and date stated above will be returned to the bidder unopened. Bidders are solely responsible for the arrival of each bid at the School District Administration Office by the appointed time, regardless of the means of delivery.

Bids must be presented on the standard

Public Notices

bid proposal form(s) in the manner designated therein and as required by the Specifications. All bids must be addressed to the Purchasing Agent, Justine Stringer, District Administration Building, 241 Wyngate Drive, N. Massapequa, N.Y. 11758. All bids shall be sealed and in an opaque envelope that is distinctly marked on the outside as follows: “Bid #25-002, First Floor Student ADA Toilet Alterations & Site Work at Charles E. Schwarting Elementary School” as required by the Bid Specifications. The name of the bidder, bidders address, and the name of the contract, and/ or contracts being bid must also appear on the outside of the envelope.

The Contract Documents may be examined at the Office of the Architect, Mark Design Studios Architecture, PC, 270 North Broadway, Hicksville New York, 516-8270240 (phone) during the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. excluding holidays. Bidders are encouraged to call ahead; however, the Contract Documents may only be obtained through the Office of REV, 28 Church Street, Suite #7, Warwick, NY 10990 (845651-3845) beginning on Wednesday, June 25, 2025.  Complete digital sets of Contract Documents shall be obtained online (with a free user account) as a download for a nonrefundable fee of One Hundred ($100.00) Dollars at the following website: www.mds. biddyhq.com under ‘public projects’. Optionally, in lieu of digital copies, hard copies may be obtained directly from REVplans upon a deposit of One Hundred ($100.00) Dollars for each complete set. Checks for

deposits shall be made payable to Plainedge Union Free School District, and may be uncertified. Plan deposit is refundable in accordance with the terms of the ‘Instructions to Bidders’ to all submitting bids. Bidding Document costs are refundable provided the documents are returned to REVplans within thirty (30) days of the Bid Opening, and are COMPLETE, UNMARKED and in NOT TORN condition. Any bidder requiring printed documents to be shipped shall make arrangements with the printer directly and pay for all packaging and shipping costs.

All bid addenda will be transmitted to registered plan holders via email and will be available at the above. Any bidder requiring documents to be shipped shall make arrangements with the printer and pay for all packaging and shipping costs. Plan holders who have obtained hard copies of the bid documents will need to make the determination if hard copies of the addenda are required for their use, and coordinate directly with the printer for hard copies of addenda to be issued. There will be no charge for registered plan holders to obtain hard copies of the bid addenda. The bid deposit for hard copies will be returned upon receipt of plans and specifications, in good condition, within thirty days after bid date, except for the lowest responsible bidder, whose check will be forfeited upon the award of the contract.

A Pre-Bid conference and walk-through will be held promptly at 12:00 P.M. on Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at the Charles E. Schwarting Elementary School

located at 1 Flower Road, Massapequa N.Y. 11758. All bidders shall meet at the front entrance of the school. Prospective bidders are strongly encouraged to attend. Knowledge of the site is crucial to obtain a proper understanding of the Work. All bidders must be fully familiar with the site. Bidders shall visit the sites of proposed work and be fully familiarized with conditions as they exist, as well as the character of the operations to be carried on under the proposed contract. All visits must be scheduled & coordinated with Brett Prochazka, Director of Facilities, at (516) 992-7422 or by email to Brett.Prochazka@ plainedgeschools.org. Each bid must be accompanied by a certified check payable to PLAINEDGE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT or by a Bid Bond in an amount equal to ten percent (10%) of the bid conditioned as set forth in the “Instructions to Bidders” of the Bid Specifications. All bid security, except those of the three lowest bidders will be returned within ten (10) days after bids are submitted. The bid security provided by the three lowest bidders will be returned after the execution of the Trade Contract. The District will require the successful bidder to provide separate Performance and Labor & Materials Payment Bonds in the amount of the contract price and in the form specified in the Bid Documents. Each Bidder shall prepare their bid proposal, along with a bid security, in accordance with the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the “Instructions to Bidders” and Bid Specifications. Attention of

bidders is particularly called to the prevailing wage rates to be paid under the contracts. Wages to workers, laborers and mechanics employed to work on this project shall be paid in accordance with Section 220 of the Labor Law and in accordance with the Prevailing Rate Schedules found in the Project Manual. Proof of such payments will be required. The District will award a contract to the lowest responsible bidder providing the required security within fortyfive (45) days of the date opening of the bids. To the fullest extent allowed by law, the District further reserves the right to reject bids that contain conditions, omissions, exceptions or modifications, or in its sole discretion to waive any irregularities in the bids, or to reject any or all bids, or to accept any bid which in the opinion of the District is in its best interest.

Date: June 25, 2025 Board of Education Plainedge Union Free School District 241 Wyngate Drive N. Massapequa, NY 11758

Maureen Ryan, District Clerk 25-224 6/25

Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA0340-25-117390 for liquor, beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor, beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 281 Franklin Ave, Franklin Square, NY 11010, County of Nassau, for on premises consumption at The Peruvian Corner Corp. 25-226. 6/25, 7/2

Massapequa teen named Student of the Quarter by Nassau BOCES

Mateo Obregon, a student in the Massapequa school district, was named Student of the Quarter at Nassau BOCES Barry Tech career and technical education high school. Mateo is studying Home Technology Integration to become a Network Cabling Technician.

Students of the Quarter are honored for their grades, attendance, work ethic and preparedness. These students have taken the initiative on class projects and are role models for their fellow students, in both the classroom and the workplace.

To learn more about BOCES and its programs, visit www.nassauboces.org.

Babylon Soldier Ride taking place July 18

The annual Soldier Ride in Babylon will take place on July 18. Take part in this unique 25-mile cycling event as you ride alongside the brave men and women who served our country and support their journey to recovery. If you register up until June 30, the cost for an adult is $75 and a t-shirt is included. For children ages 6 through 17, the cost is $25 per child. Day of registration, July 1, is $100 for adults with a t-shirt included, and $40 for children.

To register and for more information, please visit soldierride. org/babylon.

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please contact communitysr@woundedwarriorproject.org

Arts Beats and Eats

Amityville Street Fair

Amityville’s annual Street Fair will be taking place on July 3 from 5 to 10:30 p.m. in downtown Amityville, Broadway and Park Ave., from Oak St. to Ireland Place. Hosted by the Amityville Chamber of Commerce, the event will feature live music, food vendors and patriotic fun.

For more information, please call (631) 552-5673.

Courtesy Nassau Boces

Mateo Obregon (center) of Massapequa is congratulated on being named Barry Tech Student of the Quarter by Principal Dr. William Poll and Assistant Principal Nafesa Khan.

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Hamptons-Style Living…

JDocuments? Who needs documents?

Q. Our house was damaged by a fire over 10 years ago, renovated and finished. We are now refinancing, and discovered we have no “closed” permits for the work. Our bank says that they can’t continue processing until plumbing, electrical and building permits are finalized and we give the bank a copy of our certificate of occupancy. We aren’t sure why this happened, and we can’t reach the contractor or the plumber. We got a certificate that our electric was inspected. Can you explain what to do, how this happened and how long this could take? The bank is pushing us to get this done.

A. Speed and control of the project are the reason this happened. People doing construction need to get in, get out and get paid, and often there is little attention to documentation. Construction, with permits, has many steps that can be ignored. It’s rewarding to work with people in construction who respect the process.

Even with your emergency repair, the whole job, from planning to final paperwork, had to be done completely. The concern about time, and how quickly plans can be made and a permit received, sets the tone for the rest of the work. In his “Poor Richard’s Almanac,” Benjamin Franklin phrased it well: “Haste makes waste.” Rushing through planning can lead to delays if the plans are incomplete.

At each step, it seems, speed is of utmost importance. Banks, lawyers, insurance companies, contractors, real estate salespeople and building officials all have an interest, at some point, in moving you through the process of pushing for plans to be finished, a permit to be obtained and the construction work commenced. But plans and permits aren’t done by pushing a button on a computer. By diminishing this part of the process and only concentrating on getting the work done, other important parts are also ignored.

The back end of the job is making sure that each step of the work was inspected, and passes inspections. Covering up work before it is inspected is very common and done with purpose, often to avoid losing time, covering up inferior work or because the customer isn’t as important as their wallet.

You needed a full outline, a checklist, to follow through. The checklist would have shown you needed a final electrical inspection, for which you received a written certificate; a final plumbing inspection, which your plumber was required to arrange; and a final building inspection, which your contractor should have arranged. After the final inspection, you would have then received the final document you needed.

You’ll need to call your building department and confirm what inspections are needed. If you can’t find the plumber, you’ll need to either request the final plumbing inspection or spend the money to have another plumber follow through with starting the paperwork over again. Once these have been done, you’ll request the final building inspection walk-through, and hopefully thereafter receive the final certificate of completion. Good luck!

© 2025 Monte Leeper

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

Monte Leeper

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opinions Saying goodbye to Bernie Kerik

Former New York City Police

Commissioner Bernie Kerik died recently. In many ways, Bernie’s death marked the beginning of the passing of an era. He was the commissioner when New York was attacked by terrorists on Sept. 11, 2001, and he became a symbol of New York’s resistance and courage with his leadership in the days, weeks and months afterward.

peter King

Before becoming commissioner, he was a heroic police officer and detective, receiving numerous departmental awards, including the Medal of Valor.

Rosemary and I were proud to call Bernie our friend, in good times and bad. And there were some bad times, primarily when he was imprisoned for ethical crimes for which he was later pardoned. A number of us believed that he had been targeted for prosecution, and that his sentence was excessive. But Kerik would be the first to admit he was no saint. He did his time and went on with his life. Besides occasionally getting together with him for dinner, I looked forward to the massive barbecues he hosted for police officers and veterans

at his home in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey. I believe in judging people on the entirety of their lives. For those who knew him or even just observed him, Kerik passed that test. The respect and admiration for him were amply demonstrated by the crowd of mourners at his funeral Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, who shared memories of Bernie — especially his loyalty to friends, his patriotism and his unwavering leadership after 9/11.

In addition to Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the attendees included law enforcement officials, government leaders and well-known New Yorkers.

HCairo and I went after President Trump’s Madison Square Garden rally. On the day of the funeral, Kash described Kerik as a “titan among men” and “our warrior in the Colosseum when the world needed saving.”

e came to symbolize New York’s courage in the aftermath of Sept. 11.

The day of the funeral, Rosemary and I arrived early. Among the first people we met outside the cathedral was famed journalist and media personality Geraldo Rivera, a longtime friend of Kerik’s. Rivera and I spoke about the times we spent with Bernie during his tough days, and how tough he was during those days.

Also outside the cathedral was FBI Director Kash Patel. The last time I had seen Kerik was with Patel last October at Il Milano Restaurant in Manhattan, where County Executive Bruce Blakeman, county Republican Chairman Joe

Former Mayor Rudy Giuliani and FDNY Commissioner Tom Von Essen, the city officials who were closest to Kerik in leading New York back after 9/11, appeared heartbroken and devastated. Current Mayor Eric Adams also attended, and I commended him for authorizing this ceremonial tribute to Kerik.

I also spoke with the NYPD’s longest-serving commissioner, Ray Kelly, and current Commissioner Jessica Tisch. Kelly succeeded Kerik, and served for 12 years as commissioner. I met Tisch when she served as Kelly’s deputy commissioner for information and technology.

The NYPD Pipes & Drums performed, and many hundreds of NYPD officers lined up to pay their respects. Before the Mass began, Rosemary and I had the chance to meet in the cathedral with Dolan, a true man of God and a man for all seasons who always supports the efforts of the men and women in blue.

The hearse carrying Kerik’s remains arrived outside the cathedral as the bag-

pipes blared. Then the flag-draped coffin was carried up the steps of the cathedral to be blessed by Dolan, who led the funeral procession of family members and friends up the center aisle to the altar. Rosemary and I sat with Joe Lhota, formerly Giuliani’s deputy mayor, who is now chief of staff at NYU Langone Medical Center.

The funeral was definitely a celebration of Kerik’s life, best summarized by an opening sentence of NYPD Chaplain Msgr. David Cassato’s eulogy, which elicited laughter and knowing smiles as he patted the coffin: “Each of us has a Bernie Kerik story.” Kerik’s brother and his son Joe, a hero Newark SWAT team cop, also delivered moving eulogies.

At the conclusion of the funeral, Kerik’s coffin was carried from the cathedral. Taps was played. The American flag was taken from the coffin and presented to Bernie’s widow, Halla, by Patel and Giuliani. Accompanied by the pipe band playing “America the Beautiful,” the hearse headed slowly south on Fifth Avenue. A man who had done so much to lead New York through its darkest hour was leaving the arena. But the memories would remain. Bernie Kerik, R.I.P.

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

We need to stop the attacks on America’s elected leaders

Alot of people are upset about the recent reports of the murder of the former speaker of the Minnesota legislature. If there is a list of concerned citizens, please put me at the top. Having served in elected office for 23 years, I have good reason to be worried about the fate of thousands of public officials who dedicate their lives to serving us. We are living in very sick times, and it’s time for the American people to become a part of the solution and not the problem. Less than two weeks ago, a deranged man took it upon himself to launch a carefully orchestrated campaign to kill elected officials in Minnesota. He created an enemies list and armed himself with AK-47s and other deadly weapons. You will note that I do not describe his victims and intended targets as Democratic lawmakers because party affiliation does not give potential murderers a free pass to kill only certain people. The Minnesota horror show coincid-

Ded with the eighth anniversary of the mass shooting during a practice session for the Congressional Baseball Game in Alexandria, Virginia. U.S. Rep. Steve Scalise, a Republican, suffered serious injuries that have left him with permanent disabilities. His attacker also shot three other people. It is coincidental that Scalise’s attacker was angry with Republicans, and the Minnesota killer had grievances with Democrats.

These events are part of a long history of people acting out of hatred for elected officials. In January 2011, U.S. Rep. Gabby Giffords was shot during a constituent meeting in Casas Adobes, Arizona. Six innocent people were killed that day. The assassin was Jared Lee Loughner, who had a longstanding grievance with Giffords. He is currently serving a life sentence in prison.

today, whether you’re a Democratic or Republican official, there’s a target on your back and there are an abundance of people out there who want to harm you.

emocrat or Republican, there are lots of people out there who want to harm you.

Some people think the solution to this madness is providing more security guards for certain officials. That easy fix would cost taxpayers billions of dollars, and is not the solution. Instead, the first step is to voice loud criticism of anyone who supports violence against any elected official. Shortly after the Minnesota slaughter of two innocents, Utah Republican Sen. Mike Lee baselessly suggested that their assassination was connected to the political left.

The second solution to this constant wave of horror is very much in the hands of the political establishment, starting with President Trump, who has escaped two attempts on his life. It is incumbent on him to set a new tone against violence by either side. While the nation might be split politically, a president who speaks out on this issue is doing all Americans a favor.

Aside from my worry for the people who currently serve the people, I am deeply concerned about the impact these attacks will have on potential candidates for public office. I think if I were interested in running for the first time, my family would be begging me to reconsider. If qualified people decide that being an elected official is too dangerous, the country, and our system of government, will be the losers.

Since that time there have been countless cases of violence against public officials. President Trump has been the target of two assassination attempts, and just two months ago, another deranged person attempted to kill Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro by setting fire to the governor’s mansion. Sadly,

“This is what happens when Marxists don’t get their way,” Lee wrote on his personal X account with an image of suspected murderer Vance Boelter. In a follow-up tweet, he wrote “Nightmare on Waltz Street” in a misspelled reference to Minnesota Democratic Gov. Tim Waltz. Lee’s comments were met with a firestorm of complaints, but to date he has not retreated from his inflammatory remarks. If they go uncensored by the Senate leadership, America is the loser.

It is my fervent hope and prayer that this cycle of violence will end, but it won’t be without all Americans being a part of a new crusade.

Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. Comments about this column? jkremer@ liherald.com.

Jerry Kremer

Ira

Summer is too deadly for teen drivers

Summer should be a time of freedom, fun and new experiences for young people. But for teenage and young-adult drivers, the warmest months of the year come with a chilling nickname: the 100 Deadliest Days.

During this span, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, fatal crashes involving teen drivers spike significantly. The reasons are numerous and well documented — but the solutions are equally clear and achievable, if families and communities act with urgency.

Between 2019 and 2023, 13,135 people nationwide were killed in crashes involving teen drivers. One more person per day died in those crashes during the summer than at any other time of the year, according to an American Automobile Association analysis of accident data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Why is this time of year so deadly for young drivers?

The first and most obvious reason is increased time on the road. School is out, teens have more freedom, and that translates to more hours behind the wheel — many of them without adult supervision. This newfound autonomy can lead to increased exposure to risky situations, especially for drivers still learning the nuances of safe vehicle operation, who often create those situation.

Then there are the social factors. Summer is filled with gatherings, beach trips and late nights with friends. Often, teen drivers are not alone in the car, so

letterS

Suozzi gets it

To the Editor:

It was refreshing to see a Democrat, U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi, offering ideas about the concerns of everyday people in his op-ed last week, “Centrist Democrats need to listen, learn and lead.”

Suozzi wrote a column not once bashing President Trump.

He went one step further. He sent a letter to the president about working together to address border security, immigration reform and a path to legalization, and the release of a bagel manager from Port Washington who was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Working with the president may not make Suozzi popular with his fellow Democrats, but the majority of the people approve of both parties cooperating.

It’s what the people want, not about the power of the parties.

Recent developments involving Iran are more reasons why we should heal our divi -

each fatal crash involving a teen has the increased chance of claiming a number of lives. The distractions of conversation, music, phones and peer pressure can divert a driver’s attention at exactly the wrong moment. Reading and sending text messages, as well as watching and recording TikTok and Instagram videos, while driving are accidents waiting to happen, too.

Inexperience compounds the problem. As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has noted, teen drivers are still developing the judgment and skills they need to respond to rapidly changing road conditions. They may fail to recognize hazards, misjudge distances or respond too late to hazardous situations. Add common behaviors such as speeding and driving under the influence, and it becomes clear why summer teen crash statistics rise so predictably.

Other risks are more situational, but just as serious: unfamiliar routes, fatigue from erratic summer sleep schedules, heat-related vehicle problems and heavy seasonal traffic. Each of those factors can test a teen’s ability to maintain control behind the wheel.

What can, and should, parents do without unnecessarily limiting their children’s freedom? First, set clear rules about when, where and with whom they can drive. That includes enforcing curfews and limiting the number of passengers that can accompany them. Research has consistently shown that the presence of more than one teenager in a car increases the risk of a

crash.

Second, lead by example. Teens model the behavior they see. Parents should avoid using phones while driving, follow traffic laws and show that safe driving is a lifelong habit — not just the subject of a lecture.

Open, honest communication is also vital. Conversations about the dangers of drinking, drugs and distracted driving should be ongoing, not one-time talks. When teens understand the reallife consequences of risky driving, they’re more likely to make responsible choices.

Technology can help, too. Apps that provide driving feedback and location tracking — like those recommended by Family1st GPS — offer an added layer of safety and accountability. These tools aren’t about spying; they’re about creating a support system.

Emphasize safety basics: always wearing a seatbelt, obeying speed limits, and keeping eyes on the road and off the phone.

The 100 Deadliest Days will continue to claim many more lives than they should until families, schools and communities step up. Public service campaigns, driver education refreshers and localized policies — like New York state’s Zero Tolerance law, which dramatically reduced the allowable blood alcohol content for drivers under age 21 — can make an impact.

This summer, let’s treat teen driving safety like the urgent public health issue it is — and make sure that the road to adulthood isn’t cut short by tragedy.

opinions

Standing up for Nassau’s families, and getting results

As the leader of the Democratic caucus in the Nassau County Legislature, I’ve always believed that public service is about one thing: delivering results for the people who elected us. That means putting partisanship aside and focusing on what matters — keeping our communities safe, ensuring fair access to resources and doing the hard work of good government.

Unfortunately, we’ve had to fight tooth and nail for basic fairness from the administration of County Executive Bruce Blakeman.

Until recently, over $1.3 million in grant funding for first responders in Democratic districts was being blocked. That’s not just wrong; it’s dangerous. Meanwhile, the county executive approved 34 Republican-backed projects worth $2.5 million, many of them nearly identical to the proposals submitted by

Democrats. Thirty-four to zero. That’s not a coincidence. That’s a political blockade.

Letters

Our Democratic team wasn’t going to let that slide. We made the decision to leverage our power on the capital plan, something that can’t pass without a 13-vote supermajority. We drew a line in the sand and demanded that these long-overdue grants be awarded. The result? A month later, we secured the funding our districts deserved, and we passed a capital plan that invests in roads, buildings, parks and other critical infrastructure across the county.

cosplay isn’t what Nassau families asked for, and we deserve full transparency about how such a dangerous and misguided idea was ever allowed to take root.

We got the job done by demanding that longoverdue grants be awarded.

That’s what happens when you stand up instead of standing by. We got the job done.

But make no mistake, our work is far from over. We’re still holding this administration accountable, especially when it comes to public safety.

My colleagues on the Legislature’s Public Safety Committee are continuing their legal efforts to dismantle Blakeman’s reckless, unauthorized “armed militia.” Taxpayer-funded paramilitary

sions. There are many external actors who would like to see our country torn apart. We shouldn’t make it so easy for them.

Enough of subminimum wages

To the Editor:

Organizations in New York can pay a person with a disability as little as 5 cents hour, and it is legal. This must end.

It’s time for the state to eliminate the subminimum wage and treat people with disabilities with the fairness they deserve. The State Senate has passed Bill S.28 to do just that, and now it’s time for the Assembly to act before their session ends.

As the father of a young man with Down syndrome, I’ve seen firsthand what people with differing abilities can accomplish when given the chance. My son, John Cronin, co-founded a business with me, John’s Crazy Socks, and we have learned that hiring people with differing abilities isn’t charity; it’s good business. More than half of our employees have a disability. They work hard, produce extraordinary results, and earn the same wage as their colleagues.

The subminimum wage law, a relic of 1938, allows people with disabilities to be paid as little as 5 cents an hour. That’s not just outdated, it’s wrong. It tells people that their labor, and their lives, are worth less.

New York should lead the nation by ending this discriminatory practice. No more second-class workers. No exceptions. I urge the Assembly to pass S.28 and help build a more inclusive and just future for all.

MARk X. CRONIN

Cofounder and president, John’s Crazy Socks Farmingdale

We’re also facing a crisis that cuts across every ZIP code, every income level, every community: the opioid epidemic.

Nassau County has received nearly $100 million in opioid settlement funds from drug manufacturers, money meant to save lives. Yet barely $5 million of it has actually been spent. That’s inexcusable. People are dying while bureaucracy and mismanagement keep help out of their reach.

That’s why we took action. To break through the delays and dysfunction, the Legislature approved the hiring of an outside firm to manage a public grant portal that will finally move this process forward. This change will help expedite funding to the nonprofits and agencies that provide prevention, treatment and recovery services. We’re making sure

the money gets where it belongs, which is with people and organizations fighting to save lives.

Through all of this, I remain inspired by the everyday heroes in our communities: first responders, educators, nurses, outreach workers and so many others who make Nassau County a better place. It’s their example that keeps me going, and it’s why I will never stop fighting for a government that serves everyone, not just the politically connected few.

So whether it’s pushing for fairness in funding, protecting our communities from dangerous policies or getting lifesaving resources into the right hands, know this: The Democratic caucus is united, we are focused, and we are just getting started. We’ll keep showing up. We’ll keep holding this administration accountable. And we’ll keep fighting for you.

Delia DeRiggi-Whitton represents Nassau County’s 11th Legislative District, and is the Legislature’s minority leader.

DeLiA DeriggiWhitton

TONY GIAMETTA Oceanside

FrAmeWork by Tim Baker

Mount Sinai South Nassau is Improving Health Care on the South Shore

The new Fennessy Family Emergency Department at Mount Sinai South Nassau doubles the size of our previous emergency department, o ering 54 private exam rooms with clear lines of sight for physicians, nurses, and support sta . Our new emergency department also o ers a separate triage area, dedicated areas for children and behavioral health patients, and has been designed to reduce wait times and improve patient outcomes.

The Fennessy Family Emergency Department is located within the new Feil Family Pavilion, opening later this year, which will have 40 new critical care suites and nine new operating rooms, designed to support the most complex surgeries on the South Shore.

To learn more visit www.mountsinai.org/feilpavilion