Students wrap up ambitious movie Broadcasting program produces short narrative film
By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com
The highly decorated Bellmore-Merrick Broadcasting program completed production on its most ambitious student film project to date on May 18, marking the culmination of months of work by the program’s graduating seniors.
Known as the Senior Movie Project, the highly anticipated production brought together 17 seniors from the broadcasting magnet program in the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District to create a short narrative film from the ground up.
Students began their work in early October and spent the school year managing every stage of filmmaking, including scriptwriting, directing, scheduling, budgeting and even catering for cast and crew members during filming days.
The project was developed over several years by faculty members Matt Russell, Lisa Kalish and Stu Stein, who wanted to
expand the program’s offerings beyond traditional broadcasting and journalism into narrative filmmaking.
“The three of us have all had great experiences working on movie sets, and we really wanted to be able to give our students a taste of that world,” Russell recalled.
The film stars Bellmore-Merrick Broadcasting freshman Elizabeth O’Toole and senior Oliver Mattes. According to the program, the story follows a young girl navigating the challenges of starting out at a new school.
All three of the program’s faculty members also make cameo appearances in the movie.
The Bellmore-Merrick Broadcasting program, housed at Wellington C. Mepham High School, was founded in 2016 and has grown into one of the state’s premier scholastic broadcasting programs. In addition to broadcast journalism, students study digital storytelling, sports broadcasting, Continued on page 7
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Helping others find a voice
JFK senior to offer free filmmaking program at the Bellmore Library
By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com
A Bellmore high school senior is bringing filmmaking to younger students this summer through a free, hands-on program designed to teach the fundamentals of cinematic storytelling while encouraging creativity and self-expression.
Ben Stone, a senior at John F. Kennedy High School, will lead a five-session filmmaking course at the Bellmore Memorial Library beginning in July. The free program, open to students ages 8 to 14, will introduce participants to cinematography, editing, directing and storytelling using both professional equipment and everyday technology like smartphones.
“I figured it’s my time to give back to my community in a way that I felt the most fulfilled to do,” Stone said. “And in a way that can enable a lot of really young creatives, especially in a time when I feel like people need art more than ever.”
I figured it’s my time to give back to my community.
Stone currently serves as the broadcasting program director at Kennedy High School, where he has been involved in the media program for all four years. He said his interest in filmmaking began around age 7 after receiving a used camera from a family friend.
BEN SToNE Bellmore, John F. Kennedy High School senior
“My intro into the film world was kind of through photography,” he said. “It didn’t really pick up steam with film until Kennedy, when I was introduced to their broadcasting program.”
Stone said the idea was inspired by his own experiences in film programs over the past several summers, including programs through the Savannah College of Art and Design, where he plans to attend this fall to study film and television.
Stone credits much of his growth to recent Kennedy graduate Preston Bowman, who helped build the school’s current student broadcasting and film program before graduating.
“I am his chosen successor,” Stone said with a laugh. “It was
Continued on page 9
Courtesy Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District the Bellmore-Merrick Broadcasting program officially completed its biggest project to date on May 18.
Young artists at LIHSA take center stage
By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com
The month of May has been full of accomplishments for the Long Island High School for the Arts; young artists and performers from across Long Island took center stage to show what new heights they achieved during the school year.
On May 1, seniors in the school participated in the Senior Showcase cabaret at the Jerusalem Avenue School in Bellmore. May 12 featured the school’s Spring Music Festival, in partnership with the Town of Oyster Bay and Nassau BOCES Outdoor Education. Shortly after, on May 14, another cohort of students carried out the Spring Dance Festival. The Film and Media Arts festival came into focus on May 27.
One of the largest projects that came to fruition was LIHSA’s new travel show “Pinkalicious.” The group of students already performed shows at the Long Island School for the Gifted in Syosset and again at Jerusalem Avenue.
“The spring is always crazy, but we have so many beautiful events we get to celebrate,” LIHSA Principal Lindsay Rogan said. “We really strive to be able to provide opportunities that students might not be able to find elsewhere on Long Island… (and) we are so happy to partner with our districts that send students to us, because we are so excited to share all of
this with our partnering districts.”
Archie Lithgow and Hanalei Smith are seniors at Long Beach High School, with plans to attend college later this year.
Lithgow shared more about the National Dance Honor Society and how LIHSA has prepared him for opportunities.
“LIHSA has prepared me for the professional dance world in several different ways,” he said. “It’s not like any other dance studio space that I’ve ever experi-
enced before. It’s incredibly professional, hands on, and taught me a work ethic that I didn’t think was possible in the dance world… We get a great taste of what the professional world is like in a firsthand way.”
LIHSA also encourages students to support their neighborhoods with community service hours or other initiatives connected to their events. Smith’s past performances have gathered donations for various causes.
BELMONT PARK VILLAGE
“We have different donations that you can do,” she explained. “We have an animal shelter, one you can donate different dog toys, dog beds and treats… We also can help out for open houses, help set up and give tours, and also we can help sell at the bake sales.”
Olivia Carmody and Cooper daSilva are juniors at East Meadow High School, splitting their days between normal curriculum and theatrical training at LIHSA. The two students have been passionate about theater since childhood.
“I’ve been doing theater since I was in sixth grade, and when I was in the end of my eighth-grade year, heard about LIHSA and their summer program, so I came here and I auditioned for it,” daSilva said.
Out of the school’s many majors — studio or digital art, coding, film and more — Carmody opted to pursue musical theater as a combination of multiple interests.
“Musical Theater does a kind of a little bit of dance, a little bit of singing and a little bit of acting,” she explained. “I think it’s really important for people our age to find something that they’re good at and be able to follow that passion and be able to refine their skills, and this school really gives that to us.”
To learn more about upcoming events, visit LongIslandHighSchoolForTheArts. org.
Courtesy LIHSA
The Long Island High School for the Arts held its Senior Showcase at the Jerusalem Avenue School in Bellmore on May 1, celebrating a successful year of honing its students’ talents.
Calhoun hosts annual Bellmore-Merrick Challenge
BY HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com
Hundreds of students from 17 Nassau County schools gathered at Sanford H. Calhoun High School on May 20 for the annual Bellmore-Merrick Challenge, a district tradition focused on inclusion, teamwork and school spirit.
Hosted by the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District for the past 20 years, the event gives special needs students an opportunity to socialize with peers from neighboring districts, showcase their abilities and participate in a day of friendly competition. Student buddies accompanied and supported athletes throughout the event.
Organized by special education teacher Melanie Picchioni and physical education teacher Heather Riddiough, the challenge featured a variety of field day-style activities, including relay races, cornhole, jumping events and throwing contests.
Several school organizations contributed to the event. SEPTA coordinated donations, including a Kona Ice truck, while the Calhoun PTSA provided balloon columns and the Calhoun Sports Boosters supplied water for participants.
Melissa Rohr, the district’s special education chair, said the Bellmore-Merrick Challenge remains one of the district’s most meaningful traditions.
“This event is truly about connection, encouragement, and creating opportunities for every student to shine,” Rohr said. “Seeing students from so many schools come together to support one another and celebrate each other’s successes makes this an incredibly special day for everyone involved.”
The student buddies included high
school students from across the district, including members of the ACES clubs at Mepham, Kennedy, MAP and Calhoun high schools, as well as leadership students.
Emily Paluseo, director of special education and pupil personnel services, said the event reflects the district’s strong sense of community.
“The Bellmore-Merrick Challenge event truly reflects the strength of our district community,” Paluseo said.
“Seeing students and staff from across our high school programs work together to create such a memorable experience is incredibly inspiring.”
Calhoun PTSA Co-President Chris Mitkish told the Herald that the organization was proud to support the event by helping create a welcoming atmosphere for students and families.
“The Calhoun PTSA has proudly supported numerous events this year, including the Bellmore-Merrick Challenge, where we provided balloon columns to decorate the field and elevate the welcoming atmosphere at Calhoun High School,” Mitkish said.
Mitkish said the PTSA works closely with Principal Mike Hughes and school administrators to support programs and initiatives throughout the year. Alongside Co-President Lisa Triano, the organization has also participated in events such as PS I Love You Day and Calhoun Commitment Day, while promoting student wellness and safety initiatives across the school community.
“Our mission is to bring awareness to issues impacting our students and collaborate on meaningful solutions,” Mitkish said. “This year, we achieved a record-breaking membership of over 500 members, and we actively share our initiatives with parents, students and the community.”
Student athletes Vanessa Landolphi, Annie Fitzpatrick and Brynn Hutchins of Calhoun High School.
Student athletes Ryder Bascian and Ian Garcia of Kennedy High School break for a cooling ice with their buddies.
Calhoun student
Jamie McManus (left), Temidire Oladeiji of Mepham High School and Calhoun student Isabella Leo (right).
Photos courtesy of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District.
Members of the central administration team along with Calhoun administrators and chairpeople at the annual Bellmore-Merrick Challenge.
Subtitled “The Art and Science of Thriving in Life’s Second Half”, this book reflects the natural progression of our desire to increase our lifespan (the number of our years), to increasing our healthspan (the number of our healthy years), to increasing our joyspan (the number of our joyful years). The author defines joy as an inner feeling of well-being or contentment, as opposed to happiness, which comes and goes, often according to external circumstances.
Burnight writes, “To thrive in old age means to live a fulfilling, purposeful, and satisfying life despite the challenges of aging. It involves maximizing physical health, cognitive function, emotional well-being, social connections, and a sense of meaning. Thriving doesn’t mean being free of all health problems or challenges, rather, it emphasizes resilience, adaptability, and the ability to find joy and value in life.”
Research shows that those who thrive late in life:
Grow: They continue to explore and expand
Connect: They put time into new and existing relationships
Adapt: They adjust to changing and challenging circumstances
Give: They share themselves
As a Professor of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Dr. Burnight was struck by the radical difference in how people experienced their own aging process. “For some it is a frustrating, degrading, painful trajectory of ever-increasing decline. For others, there is visible delight, spirituality, and joy in occupying their eighth, ninth, and tenth decades.”
The thieves of joy are (1) comparison with others (2) frustration with health and mobility limitations (3) feeling like you are a burden (4) feeling heartbroken over the loss of a loved one, and (5) feeling defeated as if your best days are behind you. Nevertheless, she says, “Like the sun, joy is always there. But when it’s hidden by clouds, we mistakenly say it’s gone. Joy is resilient and can break through the clouds because it’s an innate part of the human experience.”
“One might say that following this doctor’s prescription will increase your “joyspan” and decrease your “oyspan”!
ETTINGER LAW FIRM
Crime brief
Two juveniles charged for multiple assaults in Merrick
Two juvenile girls are facing assault charges after a series of attacks involving four teenage victims near the Merrick LIRR station Friday night, according to Nassau County police.
Police said the incidents happened around 9:30 p.m. on May 22 near 2099 Sunrise Highway.
incident and charged her with two counts of third-degree assault.
Police later announced the arrest of an additional 14-year-old girl accused of participating in the earlier assaults. Detectives said further investigation determined the 14-year-old was also involved in another nearby attack involving two 15-year-old girls.
Detectives said a 15-year-old girl reported being punched multiple times in the head before falling to the ground, where she was repeatedly kicked in the head. She was taken to a local hospital for evaluation and treatment.
A 14-year-old girl also told police she was dragged to the ground and repeatedly struck in the head.
Following an investigation, officers initially arrested a 13-year-old girl without
According to police, the juvenile allegedly dragged the victims to the ground by their hair and repeatedly punched them in the head.
The 14-year-old defendant was charged with four counts of third-degree assault. Both juveniles are scheduled to appear in Family Court at a later date.
— Hernesto Galdamez
Herald file photo
Two girls are facing assault charges involving four teenage victims.
CELEBRATING
OF PETS, PEOPLE & COMMUNITY
A DAY FULL OF FUN!
ADOPTION
Find your new best friend!
FOOD Treats & samples!
GIVEAWAYS
Fun prizes & suprises!
SALES
Great deals you’ll love!
FUN!
Activities for all
vities ages!
JUNE 5TH - JUNE 7TH
ADOPTION
For nearly 50 years, Mutts & Butts has been a trusted, family-run staple in Merrick, growing from humble beginnings into one of the community’s go-to destinations for pet care. Founded in 1976 as a small shop selling pet food alongside beverages and cigarettes, the business quickly recognized the rising demand for quality pet products. Over time, the founders shifted their focus entirely to pet supplies, expanding their offerings and building a loyal customer base. By the mid-2000s, Mutts & Butts had transformed into an impressive 8,000-square-foot pet superstore, serving generations of local pet owners with dedication and expertise. As they celebrate 50 years in business, the team at Mutts & Butts extends heartfelt gratitude to their customers and community for decades of support and looks forward to continuing to provide exceptional service for many years to come.
Leaders shine in districtwide art gallery
The Bellmore School District’s Star Leaders took center stage April 28 as the district unveiled a districtwide art gallery at Winthrop Avenue School, showcasing student creativity from across all grade levels.
The exhibit featured artwork from students at the Reinhard Early Childhood Center, Winthrop Avenue School and Shore Road School, transforming the space into a curated gallery experience designed to mirror a professional art show. Pieces were displayed with framed presentations, artist labels and carefully arranged layouts that highlighted a range of styles, techniques and mediums.
Families, staff and community members were invited to walk through the gallery-style exhibition, viewing student work in a setting intended to elevate and celebrate artistic expression.
The showcase highlighted both the artistic talent within the district and the role of arts education in building confidence, creativity and self-expression among young students.
— Hernesto Galdamez
Photos courtesy Bellmore Public Schools Star Leaders beamed with pride next to their diplayed work.
Senior film project premieres May 29
live production and graphic design through hands-on experiences that mirror professional media environments.
For the Senior Movie Project, students operated much like a professional film crew.
Seniors Claire Arnoff and Nicole Saraceni developed and pitched the concept for the movie before writing the screenplay after the idea was approved. Emma Santiago served as director, leading a production crew made up of fellow seniors and several underclassmen from the program.
Jake Maxwell took on the role of casting director, recruiting actors from Mepham’s Skull and Bones Drama Club, while Hallie Gillison worked as the project’s location scout, identifying filming sites throughout Bellmore that fit the film’s vision and tone.
Senior Allison Redican, who had previously worked on a smaller sophomore film project, served as producer and coordinated the many moving parts involved in production.
“The teachers created a scenario where we were responsible for every aspect of getting this movie across the finish line,” Redican said. “Between band trips and AP exams and part-time jobs, it was just a challenge getting all of us in one place and never mind try-
ing to make a movie.”
The film is scheduled to premiere during the annual BMB Awards ceremony on May 29 at Mepham High School before being released publicly
My Carpet & Flooring Wholesale
on the program’s YouTube channel. Santiago said the experience helped lay the groundwork for future productions within the program.
“I know we learned a lot, and a lot
of the lessons are going to make next year’s SMP even bigger and better,” she said about the Senior Movie Project. “I can’t wait to see what they create.”
Courtesy Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District
The film tells the story of a young girl starting a new school.
Israeli Elite hockey comes to UBS arena
With late third-period rally, Jerusalem Capitals capture Challenge Cup, defeating HC Tel Aviv 6-5
By HAILEY FULMER hfulmer@liherald.com
No matter who scored, fans throughout UBS Arena jumped to their feet, waving Israeli flags, proudly cheering on competitors from the Israeli Elite Hockey League last week during the Challenge Cup championship between the Jerusalem Capitals and HC Tel Aviv. In a thrilling game, the Capitals mounted a late comeback to win 6-5.
The Challenge Cup, originally scheduled for February but postponed because of a blizzard, finally brought the two teams together on the ice in Elmont for a hard-fought game.
The atmosphere inside the arena on May 17 felt like more than just a hockey game. Families packed the stands dressed in blue and red, and there was loud chanting and spirited flag-waving throughout the crowd, creating a strong sense of pride and unity among fans celebrating both the sport and Israeli culture.
“It’s nice when you get to see support a lot for Jews and the country,” said spectator Hillel Kober, who was rooting for HC Tel Aviv.
Brooklyn resident David Silverberman said the game provided a comforting atmosphere amid a culture of rising antisemitism. “It’s a good game,” he said.” It’s very competitive scoring, but not too much. The fans are into it. It’s an exciting day, and you know, if you’re Jewish, there’s so much antisemitism going on right now, it feels very comfortable to be here. It’s nice to see the families too.”
The IEHL, founded in 2020 and approaching its sixth season this summer, was founded by Marc Brunengraber, a former goaltender for the Israeli national team. Brunengraber said the league was created not only to develop hockey talent in Israel, but also to highlight another side of the country.
“The goal is to raise Israel from the world championship Division II level to Division I,” Brunengraber said. He added that the league aims to positively represent Israel beyond the conflict-focused narratives that often dominate coverage of the country, emphasizing that its citizens continue to live everyday lives as ordinary people.
The championship game was intense from start to finish, marked by heavy physical play, shifting momentum and a UBS Arena crowd that fed off every moment of drama. Tel Aviv controlled play for much of the first two periods, keeping Jerusalem players on their heels and forcing them to fight just to stay within reach heading into the third.
Capitals player Nathanel Peretz described the surreal feeling of stepping onto the ice at UBS Arena.
“There’s kids growing up dreaming of this moment, and you’re seeing Jerusalem against Tel Aviv, and a bunch of Jewish people just playing the sport they love,” he said.
Peretz admitted that the locker room atmosphere was tense after the second period with Jerusalem trailing by two goals. “It’s the second year that we [were down by] two goals going into the third,” he said. “We trusted our coaches, we trusted our captain, we trusted our players, and we got out there in the third.”
Late in the third period, the Capitals suddenly took over. Two goals came just seconds apart, and suddenly Tel Aviv was scrambling to keep up. The energy in the arena flipped instantly as fans rose to their feet, and the game intensified dramatically in the final minutes.
Capitals head coach Craig Brunengraber said the team had to manage intense emotions to complete the comeback. “You have a lot of strong personalities,” he said. “At the end of the day, we won the game, and that’s the hardest part about being a coach.”
He also praised Peretz’s performance, saying, “Peretz is all heart and soul. He shows the world he can do this on a world stage.”
Despite the loss, Tel Aviv captain Mike Gennello reflected on the broader meaning of the game. “Guys can get on the ice and it can be an absolute war out there, and then we get off and it’s all smiles,” he said.
As Jerusalem celebrated its comeback victory on the ice, fans throughout the arena remained standing, waving Israeli flags, giving the scene a powerful sense of pride in their country — and the game of hockey.
HC Tel Aviv’s Johnny Lazarus controlled the puck, with Jerusalem’s Zach Sprung on his heels.
Erik Lee/Herald photos
The Jerusalem Capitals and goaltender Yonatan Reisinger pulled out a win over HC Tel Aviv on May 17 at UBS Arena.
HC Tel Aviv’s Zach Freeman, right, collided with Jerusalem’s Jeremy Sprung.
Free program will begin over the summer
great getting to learn from him and being able to continue on what he started and put my own spin on it.”
Bowman, who is currently developing a television pilot inspired by his experiences building the Kennedy broadcasting program, said seeing Stone expand filmmaking opportunities into the community has been rewarding.
“When I met Ben, who was just so eager to learn, and I could tell loved it as much as I did, it was so much fun to share with him everything that I knew,” Bowman said. “The fact that now he’s trying to teach other people this lovely medium of film the same way I was able to teach him just makes me feel so good inside.”
Bowman said Stone was the clear choice to continue the program after he graduated.
“He was just so smart and constantly wanting to learn and better himself,” Bowman said. “The fact that now two years later it’s beyond what I could have ever possibly fathomed it would ever be is credit to him, and I’m just beyond impressed and amazed and proud of him.”
The summer library program will runrun on Wednesdays from 5 to 6 p.m. on July 8, July 15, Aug. 5, Aug. 12 and Aug. 19. Students will learn filmmaking vocabulary, story structure and production basics before splitting into groups to create short films that will be screened at the end of the program.
Stone said the curriculum focuses less on expensive technology and more on storytelling.
“I don’t want to just show these kids that this is what you can make with this fancy equipment,” he said. “But this is what you can make with even less. It’s mainly how to tell a story through film.”
Equipment for the workshops will be provided through Kennedy High School’s broadcasting program, which agreed to loan cameras and audio equipment dur-
ing the summer months.
Stone also arranged for guest speakers, including actor and producer Mark Rosen, one of his former instructors, who will speak virtually with students about the film industry.
The Bellmore Memorial Library partnership was several months in the making, Stone said, involving meet-
ings and coordination with the library’s children’s department to secure space for the workshops.
For Stone, the project is ultimately about helping young people find their voice through art.
“Art is powerful, straight up,” he said. “It’s our ability to express ourselves, it’s our ability to be different and be unique.”
Courtesy Ben Stone
Ben Stone currently serves as the broadcasting program’s director at John f. Kennedy High School.
Memorial Day parade runs right through the rain
By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com
For veterans throughout Merrick and North Merrick, Memorial Day is an important opportunity to pay respects to their friends, colleagues and predecessors who died in service of the United States.
The parade was held throughout the streets of Merrick, hosted by American Legion Post No. 1282.
Attendees gathered at Merrick Avenue and Veterans Plaza at 9:30 a.m. Organizers started the ceremony at the Merrick’s Veteran Memorial Park in the late morning, featuring members of Merrick’s schools, houses of worship, clubs, fire departments and elected officials.
Robert Dishman is the commander of Merrick American Legion Post 1282.
“The parade is a community parade; we get good support from the Chamber of Commerce and Kiwanis, and a lot of the organizations, the schools,” he said. “It’s important because we’re remembering all the people that all the people, men and women, that sacrifice time, and a lot of them, basically their lives, but so that we could have our freedoms, so that we can enjoy to live here freely and practice our religions the way we want, go to school as we want, get it as we want.”
Many of the members of the American Legion are veterans from the Kore-
an War, the Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, and more.
“It’s like me on those monuments, the one where they list the names,” Dishman said. “I went to school with a lot of those guys that aren’t here anymore. They got killed on Vietnam, and that’s basically why all of us that are able to march, or even just to participate in a parade if they can’t march, do. We do it because it’s people that we serve with, we believe that they deserve this honor.”
Boy scouts from North Merrick’s Troop 123 came equipped with with flags and smiles.
Holden Leeds/Herald Photos
Dozens of members of Merrick Truck Company 1 returned for the ceremony, a staple of the annual tradition.
Parishioners of the Grace Reformed Baptist Church did not let rain impede their support for the community.
Holden Leeds/Herald Photos
Members of Merrick Girl Scouts Troop 2276 marched in the Memorial Day parade.
Alice Taurmine and her dog, Max, were proud to be patriotic.
Student-inspired board game drive delivers joy
Student leaders at John G. Dinkelmeyer Elementary School are helping transform indoor recess into a more engaging experience for their classmates through a schoolwide board game donation drive.
The effort was organized by student council members Gianna Santos and Briana Sheehan, who noticed that many of the games used during indoor recess had become worn out over time or were missing important pieces. Wanting to provide students with more options on days when recess must be held indoors because of bad weather, the pair proposed the idea of creating a new board game collection for the school.
Working alongside student council adviser Stephanie Meehan and Principal Danica Brugge, the students launched a two-week donation drive that encouraged families to contribute new and gently used games. By the end of the collection period, the school had received more than 30 donations, significantly expanding the selection available to students during indoor recess.
“I’m so grateful because now the school has extra stuff for indoor recess,”
Gianna said. “It’s rewarding to know all of our peers will benefit.”
The donations included a variety of popular games, such as Clue Junior and Twister, along with several other familyfriendly activities. School officials said the games will be sorted and distributed to classrooms as needed, while some will be kept in reserve to replace games that become damaged or worn with continued use.
Brugge praised the students for identifying a problem and taking initiative to improve the school community.
“There is definitely more of a selection now,” Brugge said. “I’m excited that we have such thoughtful leaders in student council, who bring wonderful ideas to the group and have the determination and work ethic to make the school better for all.”
School officials said the project also highlighted the positive impact students can make when they work together to support their peers.
—Jonathan Padilla
News Brief items including awards, honors, promotions and other tidbits about local residents are welcome. Photographs may be emailed as well. Deadline for submissions is noon Thursday, week prior to publication. Send to execeditor@liherald.com
Sunday, June 7th
FUN LOVIN’ CRIMINALS AND BLESSID UNION OF SOULS
Thursday, June 11th - 6:00pm
Senior Afternoon Concert
featuring Amber Ferrari and Debra Toscano
Thursday, June 18th
Juneteenth Celebration – Earth Wind & Fire Tribute by D’votion, Gospel Choir and DRIFT featuring members of TAUK and MJT
Friday, June 19th - 3:00pm
FIFA World Cup Watch Party USA vs. Australia
Monday, June 22nd - 6:00pm
Senior Afternoon Concert
The Chiclettes and Vinnie Medugno
Friday, June 26th
The Allmost Brothers BandAllman Brothers Tribute, Sons of Skynyrd –Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute
Saturday, June 27th
FREESTYLE MEETS SALSA –featuring BRENDA K. STARR, TITO PUENTE JR., TKA/K7, JOEY CRUZ, LA SONORA 495 AND FOREVER FREESTYLE BAND
Sunday, June 28th
REGGAE NIGHT WITH INNER CIRCLE, WAYNE WONDER AND IRIEspect
Thursday, July 2nd – 5:30pm
TD PRESENTS CELEBRATE AMERICA FIREWORKS & DRONE SHOW with Live Music By: Glenn Strange, Chicken Head and Let Freedom Rock
Friday, July 3rd
Fireworks Rain Date
Thursday, July 9th
Oldies Night with E’stefano DiSanto, Johnny Farina, Bobby Wilson, Vito Picone & The Elegants and The Brooklyn Bridge
Saturday, July 11th
Disco Unlimited
Thursday, July 16th
Harry Chapin Day – Corey Rieman and The Dilemma Band with Scarborough Fair - Simon & Garfunkel Tribute
Saturday, July 18th
Simply Stapleton –Chris Stapleton Tribute
Sunday, July 19th - 6:00pm
Last Exit – Pearl Jam Tribute Foo For All – Foo Fighters Tribute
Thursday, July 23rd
LANIE GARDNER & BROOKE MORIBER
Friday, July 24th
ZBTB – Zac Brown Band Tribute and Guys with Guitars
Saturday, July 25th - 6:30pm
JEFFERSON STARSHIP, ATLANTA RHYTHM SECTION, FIREFALL AND PURE PRAIRIE LEAGUE
Sunday, July 26th - 4:00pm
Family Day On The Lake, featuring Beauty and The Beat, Princesses and wide-ranging entertainment for children and families
Thursday, July 30th
3 Decades Rewind
Rock Hits of the 60s, 70s and 80s
Friday, July 31st
Half Step – Grateful Dead Tribute
Saturday, August 1st
SALUTE TO VETERANS with Desert Highway – Eagles Tribute and American Bombshell
Sunday, August 2nd
Lovesong – 80s New Wave Tribute
Thursday, August 6th
THE OUTLAWS
Friday, August 7th
COLE SWINDELL
Saturday, August 8th
Neil Berg’s 100 Years of Broadway
Monday, August 10th - 6:00pm
Senior Afternoon Concert
Gerry Ferretti and the Mutant Kings and Jenna Esposito
Thursday, August 13th
Neil Diamond Tribute
Friday, August 14th
Swingtime Big Band
Saturday, August 15th
MIDTOWN MEN
ORIGINAL CAST OF JERSEY BOYS
Thursday, August 20th
Let’s Sing Taylor – Taylor Swift Tribute
Friday, August 21st
LOUD LUXURY with OPENING BY DJS CAFFEINE ACADEMY, DJ DENNIS THE MENACE AND JUST JOE
Sunday, August 23rd
WORLD RENOWNED PUERTO RICAN SALSA ORCHESTRA
Thursday, August 27th
Long Island’s American Idols featuring Constantine Maroulis, Kevin Covais and Robbie Rosen with Special Guests
Friday, August 28th
Dancing Dream – ABBA Tribute
Monday, August 31st FLO RIDA
Tuesday, September 1st ZZ TOP
Thursday, September 3rd
THE LORDS OF 52ND STREET
Friday, September 4th LOS LOBOS
Saturday, September 5th
Streetfighter – Rolling Stones Tribute, Who’s Next – The Who Tribute
Courtesy North Bellmore School District
John G. Dinkelmeyer Elementary School students, from left, Katie Bulger, Briana Sheehan, Gianna Santos and Nicholas Racanelli showed off the indoor recess cart that now has more games thanks to a successful collection drive.
Students of the Quarter named at Nassau BOCES
This spring, 125 students from throughout Nassau County were named Students of the Quarter for the thirds quarter by Nassau BOCES Barry Tech and GC Tech career and technical education high schools. All were honored for their grades, attendance, work ethic and preparedness. Students of the Quarter have taken the initiative on class projects and are role models for their fellow students, in both the classroom and the workplace.
In Baldwin, the Students of the Quarter were Elizabeth Albrecht, Barry Tech
Cosmetology; Ashaunti Mosley, Barry Tech Veterinary Science; Analia Perez, Barry Tech Cosmetology; Anthony Cruz Ramos, Barry Tech Animation & Digital Media Skills; and Ethan Solano-Madera, Barry Tech Auto Skills.
Bellmore-Merrick’s Student of the Quarter was Sean Schettino, CG Tech Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning.
In East Meadow, the Students of the Quarter were Sandra Flores Garcia, Barry Tech Physical Therapy Aide and Rehab Medicine; Yiannis Kakavas, Barry
Tech Carpentry; Bryan Lai, Barry Tech Computer Game Design & Programming Skills; Aidan Lehmann, GC Tech Automotive Technology; Gabriel Martinez Cruz, Barry Tech Animation & Digital Media Skills; Joshua Rubinfeld, Barry Tech Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement Administration; Isabella Schaefer, Barry Tech Health Care Skills; and Kaylee Fuentes, Barry Tech Culinary Arts.
In Levittown, the Students of the Quarter were Isabella Bonano, GC Tech Medical Assisting; Antonia Bruno, GC Tech Medical Assisting; James Carr,
Barry Tech Computer Game Design & Programming Skills; Thomas Cukro, GC Tech Construction Electric; Sarah Florentin, GC Tech Cosmetology; Luis Guerrero, GC Tech Automotive Technology; Caeli Mugno, GC Tech Esthetics and Skin Care; and Kyle Russo, Barry Tech Plumbing. In Wantagh, the Students of the Quarter were Emma Bush, Barry Tech Child Care Skills; Margaret Conti, Barry Tech Dental Assisting; and Peyton Garrett, Barry Tech Horse Science and Management.
—Jonathan Padillo
Courtesy Nassau BOCES
Nassau BOCES GC Tech Students of the Quarter, Antonia Bruno, Jordyn Lessne, Sarah Florentin, Matthew J. Wipperman, Aidan Lehmann, Kanye Ray, Logan McClancy and Robert Northrop.
FREE community event focused on health, wellness, and lifestyle
Meet trusted local exhibitors and service providers
Take advantage of on-site health screenings
Enjoy lively entertainment, fitness demonstrations and interactive experiences
Hear from experts during a panel discussion with Q&A
Win raffles, prizes, and giveaways
Snack station for all
*Boxed lunches for first 150 attendees
All designed to help you stay active, informed, and engaged at every stage of life.
AGENDA:
x273
STEPPING OUT
Nature, brick by brick
Wild wonders in LEGO form at Old Westbury Gardens
By Christie Leigh Babirad
Art, nature and imagination come together this summer at Old Westbury Gardens with the arrival of Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects Made with LEGO Bricks, an outdoor exhibition that transforms familiar scenes from the natural world into larger-than-life works of art.
Now on display through Sept. 7, the exhibit features 17 larger-than-life intricate sculptures crafted entirely from LEGO bricks, many inspired by the landscapes, wildlife and beauty found throughout the historic gardens. Blending creativity with environmental themes, the installation invites visitors of all ages to experience the grounds in a fresh and unexpected way.
For Maura Brush, president and CEO of Old Westbury Gardens, bringing the exhibition here has been especially rewarding after years of planning and anticipation.
“We’re really excited to be hosting this exhibit,” Brush says, explaining that whenever she and her team choose a temporary exhibit, they strive for the display to blend with the grounds — and this does exactly that.
“When you see the exhibit and you see the sculptures it really fits so beautifully within the landscape,” she continues. “Old Westbury Gardens is home to foxes, butterflies and hummingbirds, and to see these exaggerated, large-scale sculptures in the landscape, it feels like it fits pretty beautifully.”
All of the displays are tucked into natural places throughout the garden areas where visitors might see these creatures and flora naturally. Each includes is a sign that indicates how many bricks were used, how many hours it took the artist to make each one and facts about the creature or flora.
Angela and Martin Pavlovic attended the preview opening with their 5-year-old son Niko who was excited to see the hummingbird and gave rave reviews for the wheel barrel made completely out of LEGOs.
“I like the wheel barrel,” Niko enthused. “It’s a 10 out of 10.”
Anne Caminiti, who attended with her daughters Nina and Mia, noted their eagerness to see the exhibit as her eldest daughter loves LEGOs.
South Shore Symphony
“I’m excited to see this display in one of our favorite places and see how many LEGOs it took to make each one,” Caminiti says, adding that she appreciates how many great family programs are offered at Old Westbury Gardens.
Ashley Friel, spokesperson for Imagine, which manages the exhibit, explains that Sean Kenney, who has been involved with Imagine for over 10 years now, is an artist who likes to invoke a sense of whimsy and fun for the whole family.
• Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects open daily, except for Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., through Sept. 7
• 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• For more information and program/events schedule visit oldwestburygardens.org or call (516) 333-0048
“Nature Connects is a super inspiring show and really about how the beauty of nature is interconnected in the same way that LEGO bricks are,” Friel says.
She added that she is eager to hear visitors’ reactions to the sculptures and hopes the exhibit encourages guests to see the natural world through a new and more imaginative lens.
The fun does not stop with the sculptures. Throughout the Nature Connects’ duration, Old Westbury Gardens will host a series of LEGOthemed events and programs designed to inspire creativity and bring together visitors of all ages.
Laura Erwin, education manager, explained that the exhibit will be complemented by a variety of special events, including Family Nights and the Seasonal Sprouts program, held on select Wednesdays from July 1 through Sept. 2. Created for children ages 4 through 10, Seasonal Sprouts combines exploration and creativity through guided outdoor tours of the exhibit followed by hands-on activity in a LEGO free-play space.
“There are a lot of fun events coming up and the Family Nights are going to be big,” Erwin says.
Another preview visitor, Claudine Krause, stopped by with her son Tatum, who she said loves LEGOs and goes to all the master LEGO events and has been following Sean Kenney’s work.
“There’s a lot you can learn through LEGOs and they have a lot of great events for children here,” Krause says.
Adults can also join in the creativity when Bricks and Brews returns on Aug. 6, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
The adults-only evening pairs art and socializing, beginning with a guided tour of the exhibition and continuing at the Barn at Orchard Hill, where guests will build with official LEGO Botanical Daisies kits while enjoying refreshments in a relaxed setting.
The beloved orchestra, under direction of Adam Glaser, returns to St. Agnes Cathedral for its annual spring concert, joined by St. Agnes combined choirs, directed by Michael Bower. The inspiring program showcases beloved masterworks, including Mozart’s Regina Coeli, and Bach’s Mass in B Minor: Dona Nobis and Beethoven’s Christ on the Mount of Olives: Hallelujah.The evening culminates with Beethoven’s monumental Symphony No. 9, the groundbreaking 1824 masterpiece that transformed symphonic music by introducing a chorus in its final movement and giving voice to Friedrich Schiller’s enduring “Ode to Joy,” a celebration of unity and shared humanity. More than 65 musicians and approximately 75 vocalists join acclaimed soloists soprano Risa Renae Harman, mezzosoprano Elizabeth Sarian, tenor Eric Finbarr Carey, and baritone Scott Lefurgy. Admission is free, with donations requested.
Friday, May 29, 7:30 pm. 29 Quealy Place, Rockville Centre. Visit sssymphony.org for more.
The blues-rock guitarist-singersongwriter has built a reputation as one of the most exciting live performers of his generation. Blending electric blues, rock, soul, R&B, and hints of hip-hop, Clark’s sound is both rooted in tradition and boldly modern. His guitar tone often recalls legends like Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan, but his songwriting, socially aware lyrics, and willingness to experiment make him stand out as a contemporary artist. On stage, he is known for extended solos, dynamic arrangements, and emotionally charged vocals that move from soft falsetto to gritty growls, making every concert feel unforgettable. Anyone who has listened to a Gary Clark Jr. album or watched the four-time Grammy Award winner perform live knows that he’s a gifted multiinstrumentalist, songwriter and performer.
Wednesday, June 3, 8 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
Gary Clark Jr.
Right photo courtesy Imagine/ other photos Christie Leigh Babirad/Herald Detailed
Westbury Gardens
bricks.
Your Neighborhood CALENDAR
MAY 28
‘Something Rotten! The Musical’
See the comedy musical, set in the 1590s, which follows two playwright brothers competing with William Shakespeare as they attempt to create the world’s first musical. From tap dancing eggs to beautiful love stores, this musical really has it all. Songs include “A Musical!,” “It’s Hard to Be the Bard,” and “Welcome to the Renaissance.” The cast is comprised of New York City professionals, including David Hibbard, who was in the original Broadway production, with CAP21 alumni and current students. Performances are scheduled throughout the four-day run.
• Where: Madison Theatre, Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre
• Time: Varied times, through May 31
• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444
Westbury House Tour
For many years visitors to Westbury House at Old Westbury Gardens asked what was beyond the first floor corridor. Now go beyond the door and discover “Secrets of the Service Wing,” during a 60-minute guided tour. Be introduced to the intensive labor required to create the lifestyle experienced by the Phipps family and their guests; tour the many rooms that were “behind the scenes” to create the formal dining experiences of early 20th century. Go along the corridors to the butler’s pantry and silver cleaning room then descend the 17 steps to the kitchen, scullery, and wine storage rooms located on the ground floor. Reservations required.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: Noon-1 p.m., also May 29 and May 31
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
MAY 29
Friday Night Car Show
Drop by to check out hundreds of antique and custom cars, every Friday, through Oct. 30.
• Where: Bellmore LIRR parking lot on Broadway between Bellmore and Bedford avenues
• Time: 5-10 p.m.
MAY 30
Sprout and Bloom Families can dig in and get their hands dirty at Long Island Children’s Museum.
David Lee Roth
JUN
a guided stroll through the Gardens, with a reading of “The Secret Garden” by Callista Brill (based on Frances Hodgson Burnett) Along the way, discover nature’s wonders, in the formal gardens. The tour ends at the Thatched Cottage with a story and hands-on craft for each child to take home.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygar dens.org or call (516) 3330048
Dad & Me LEGO printmaking
Special guys and kids in grades K-6 are welcome to visit Merrick Library for a children’s workshop. Create a print or painting using LEGOs. Registration required.
• Where: 2279 Merrick Ave.
• Time: 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
• Contact: merricklibrary.org
Blood Drive
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington
• Time: 8 p.m.
Get ready to jump! Diamond Dave is back! The iconic, high-flying frontman of Van Halen is bringing his legendary swagger and a massive arsenal of rock anthems to the Paramount stage. Fans can expect a high-octane night packed with timeless hits like “Jump,” “Panama,” and “Runnin’ with the Devil.” This tour marks a massive return for the rock legend, who officially ended a five-year hiatus from the stage last May with a triumphant, headlinemaking debut at the M3 Rock Festival. Far from a stripped-down nostalgic act, Roth is backing up his signature showmanship with a powerhouse new eight-piece band to perfectly replicates those massive, classic Van Halen harmonies. Between the fresh musical muscle and Roth’s undiminished, charismatic stage presence, this promises to be an unforgettable night of nostalgia and high-energy rock ‘n’ roll. If you’re looking for a night of pure, unadulterated arena-rock energy right in our own backyard, this is the ticket of the season.
The museum welcomes all to celebrating all the beautiful May flowers by planting your own at the drop-in program. Take it home and watch it grow!. For ages 3+.
• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
• Time: Noon-2 p.m.
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
Family Night: Backyard Bugs
Old Westbury Gardens welcomes families to discover the fascinating world of bugs during this special after-hours experience. Explore Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects exhibit, a hands-on bug information station, the LEGO free-play area, along with a live bug show. Participants will meet incredible insects up close and learn what makes them so amazing, plus the bug station for further exploration and discovery. Registration required. $34, $24 children (20% member discount).
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 5-8 p.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
JUN
2
Harmonize with Harmonizers
Love to sing? So do the Long Island Harmonizers. The chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society is a chorus of more than 20 singers, now welcoming new members. The ensemble performs four-part a cappella harmony in the barbershop style, entertaining audiences at libraries, assisted living facilities, hospitals, and local events. All are welcome to visit one of their weekly rehearsals. Come listen, meet the chorus, and — if you’d like—join in and sing. No musical experience is necessary, just a love of singing and a desire to have fun making music together.
• Where: Faith Lutheran Church, 231 Jackson Ave, Syosset
• Time: Tuesdays, 7:30-9:30 p.m.
• Contact: Call: Rich, (516) 5214779, or Dennis, (516) 680-8036, or visit longislandharmonizers.org
Live After Five
JUN
4
Don’t miss out on Merrick’s Live After Five, back for another year. Merrick Community Civic Association hosts an evening dedicated to supporting local businesses. Participating
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
restaurants and shops offer special promotions for the evening for all customers. Enjoy music at the Gazebo near the LIRR (weather permitting).
• Where: Along Merrick Avenue, from LIRR to Loines Ave, and into the Merrick Mall
• Time: Beginning at 5 p.m.
• Contact: For the most up to date list of participating businesses, check out @ MerrickLiveAfterFive on Instagram
Pokémon Club
JUN
5
Kids in grades 2-6 are welcome to join friends or meet new ones at North Merrick Public Library’s Pokémon Club. Explore all things Pokémon. Registration required.
• Where: 1691 Meadowbrook Road, Merrick
• Time: 4 p.m.
• Contact: nmerricklibrary.org
JUN
6
Storybook Stroll
Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for a Storybook Stroll. Little listeners are invited to participate in
The Merrick Kiwanis Club and American Legion Post 1282 host a blood drive. Blood donations save lives, and the need for blood is constant. If you’re able to donate, consider signing up. Appointments must be scheduled.
• Where: American Legion Hall, 160 West Merrick Road
• Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
• Contact: donate.nybc.org/ donor/schedules/drive_ schedule/
Whatever Floats Your Boat
Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes families to celebrate the opening of the H2Oh! Water Play exhibit by creating a floating boat. Put your boat to the test in a water tub to see if it sinks or floats at the drop-in program. For ages 3+.
• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
• Time: Noon-2 p.m.
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
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.
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF NASSAU, CITIBANK, N.A., NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE OF THE NEW RESIDENTIAL
MORTGAGE LOAN
TRUST 2019-6, Plaintiff, vs. NICHOLAS TSAPELIS, ET AL., Defendant (s).
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on May 23, 2025 and Order Appointing Substitute Referee entered on March 3, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on JUNE 4, 2026 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 2801 LINCOLN BLVD, MERRICK, NY 11566. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Merrick, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 63, Block: 123, Lot: 1590. Approximate amount of judgment is $806,703.96 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 618164/2023. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Mortgagee’s attorney, or the Referee.
JERRY ANTHONY MEROLA, Esq., Referee Roach & Lin, P.C., 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 185, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 160061
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF NASSAU, PS FUNDING, INC., Plaintiff, vs. PROPERTY A10 LLC, ET AL., Defendant(s).
steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 15, 2026 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 3376 Robin Lane a/k/a 3376 Robbin Lane, Merrick, NY 11566. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situated, lying and being at Merrick, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 63, Block 327 and Lot 20. Approximate amount of judgment is $878,911.06 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #600211/2022.
Louis B. Imbroto, Esq., Referee Chartwell Law, One Battery Park Plaza, Suite 710, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff 160198
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU
f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC
Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792
Dated: May 5, 2026 160263
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS
Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 06/10/2026 at 9:30
A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:
THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30
A.M.
other matters as may properly come before it. 160413
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2
ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. ANISSA METAYER, ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on January 20, 2023 and an Order Appointing Successor Referee to Compute May 14, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front
U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for BNC Mortgage Loan Trust 2006-1, Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2006-1, Plaintiff AGAINST Mark Harrington a/k/a Mark R. Harrington; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 19, 2018, and amended November 6, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on June 23, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 1987 De Kalb Avenue, Merrick, NY 11566. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land situate lying and being in the Village of Merrick, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 55 Block 55 Lot 57-58. Approximate amount of judgment $652,597.28 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 011299/2014. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”
Sheharyar Ali, Esq., Referee
LOGS Legal Group LLP
296/26. MERRICK - 7Eleven Store # 34162, Renewal of grant to maintain double-faced, illuminated, detached ground sign, overall height 18’, setback 10’ from Jerusalem Ave. & Merrick Ave., N/W cor. Jerusalem Ave. & Merrick Ave., a/k/a 1555 Jerusalem Ave. 303/26. MERRICKNicole Contrada & Guillermo Dilone, Maintain pool equipment not permitted in the side yard & with less than required side yard setback., S/s Shaw Dr., 500.63’ E/o Whaleneck Dr., a/k/a 2062 Shaw Dr. This notice is only for new cases in Merrick within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on January 15, 2026, and a Short Form Order entered on April 1, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on July 1, 2026 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 189 Evergreen Drive, Westbury, NY 11590. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Westbury, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 10, Block 330 and Lot 9. Approximate amount of judgment is $688,288.53 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #610442/2024. Cash will not be accepted. Howard E. Colton, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 160433
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU
Advancial Federal Credit Union, Plaintiff AGAINST Michael A. Volino, a/k/a Michael Volino; et al., Defendant(s)
Chatterton hosts STEAM Day filled with discovery
Students at Chatterton School explored science, technology, engineering, art and math through hands-on activities during the school’s annual STEAM Day on May 15.
The event featured a variety of interactive learning experiences designed to encourage creativity, problem-solving and collaboration among students.
STEAM and sixth grade teacher James Keenan, along with faculty and staff members, coordinated the activities to ensure students were both engaged and learning throughout the day.
Sixth graders also took on leadership roles by running activity stations for younger students, helping guide their classmates through experiments and projects.
Students additionally attended a science-themed “Mad Science” performance, which brought demonstrations and interactive elements to the celebration of STEAM education.
— Hernesto
Galdamez
Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 18, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on July 1, 2026, at
2:00PM, premises known as 204 Margaret Boulevard, Merrick, NY 11566. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Merrick, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 56 Block 87 Lots 46, 47, 48, 49, 50 [Lot Group].
On May 15, Chatterton School hosted its annual STEAM Day, allowing students to explore science, technology, engineering, art and math through a variety of hands-on activities.
Public Notices Public Notices
Approximate amount of judgment
$293,934.68 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 615213/2022. Brian J. Davis, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff
160323
Photos courtesy of the Merrick Union Free School District.
Noyan, Mia, Alexandra and Alexa with Kerri Burke, a third grade teacher and fourth grade science enrichment teacher.
EMPLOYMENT
Help Wanted
CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE Full Time/Part Time Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multi-task, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $17 per hour to $20 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: circulationassociate@liherald.com
COMPANION AVAILABLE
Responsible & Experienced
With Luxury Car To Assist With Doctor Appointments, Errands, Shopping, Etc. or Just Going Out For An Enjoyable Day! Call 646-708-2160
DRIVERS WANTED
Full Time and Part Time Positions Available! Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239
DRIVING INSTRUCTOR
Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome! $22 - $27/ Hour Bell Auto School 516-365-5778 Email: info@bellautoschool.com
EDITOR/REPORTER
Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com
MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP
Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $35,360 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
OUTSIDE SALES
Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $35,360 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and
HomesHERALD
Timeless Charm
For access to the very best of living in the village of Rockville Centre, this gracious Colonial is ideally situated just moments from popular shops, restaurants, and vibrant downtown amenities, while also zoned for the award-winning Oceanside School District. Built in 1926, this beautifully maintained home showcases timeless architectural character, including high ceilings and hardwood floors throughout, paired with the spacious interior today’s buyers desire. Offering approximately 2,674 square feet of interior living space, the residence features five generously sized bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, and an office and den, providing exceptional comfort for everyday living and entertaining alike. This extraordinary home additionally offers ample outdoor space on an expansive quarter-acre property. Additional highlights include a large finished basement, walk-up attic, and detached two-car garage, all contributing to the home’s versatility and appeal. Filled with warmth, charm, and classic appeal, this is a rare opportunity to own a truly special home in a premier village location.
Christine Ferramosca Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Mobile: 516-835-8468 Office: 516-669-3700
Christine.Ferramosca@elliman.com
Douglas Elliman Real Estate. 304 Merrick Road Rockville Centre, NY 11571
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Q.. I planned and started building a stack stone wall in my front yard, but I was stopped by a building inspector. He told me the wall was structural, and needed a professional plan to be approved before I could do the rest of the work. It’s just a landscape wall instead of a fence or hedges at my front sidewalk, so why should it matter? A lot of my neighbors have them, and he told me to file a complaint, and he would check the others out, but I don’t want to tell on my neighbors. What do you suggest?
A. Continuing my answer from the last column, which addressed the technical issues, the approval side is often more complicated, especially when we attach the stigma of living among neighbors in this condition we refer to as “civilization.”
You wondered why neighbors have gotten away with building their walls and fences without permits, and yet you are being called out for your venture into building without approvals they didn’t seem to need. You may also wonder why the inspector suggested you file a complaint so that there is cause to look into violations created by your neighbors the same kind of violation you feel singled out for. We, collectively, wonder why this happens. It is a regular occurrence to be taken to a potential customer’s door and pointed out violations others have, completely visible to all, which are either prohibited or require building permits and zoning variances. Things like extra-tall fences, pools, sheds, decks and porches extended into front yards even garages and “temporary” carports. I know that once I have to explain the rules and regulations, it isn’t convincing, and I may be dismissed, mainly because the neighbors are “getting away with it, so why should I have to spend all this money and time when they didn’t have to?”
You, like most, believe that if an inspector sees a violation, they will act. In many incorporated villages, that is the case. In the larger jurisdictions, however, that isn’t always the case. You are requested to file a complaint. People I have spoken to won’t do that, because that pits neighbor against neighbor, even if the authorities tell you that your complaint is confidential. The violator immediately becomes suspicious, and when I get called to meet and try to clear a violation, the first part of the conversation is spent by the owner pointing at the suspected neighbor’s property, and vindictive language follows.
I never really had a name for it until recently, when the phrase “The system is rigged” prevailed. Now I understand, as you should, too, that the way violations are handled actually creates stress among neighbors and goes against public safety, as more and more of us want to do uncertified, unsafe construction without approvals. Financially, those municipalities that double their fees for already-built work benefit from the violations they encourage. If public safety is most important, it’s overshadowed by administration. Good luck!
© 2026 Monte Leeper
Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
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opinions
Protecting our suburbs from overdevelopment
Long Island’s suburbs weren’t created by accident. They were built to offer families a place to grow, to feel safe, and to put down roots in communities that reflect shared values and a commitment to quality of life. In the Town of Hempstead, we take that responsibility seriously.
Right now, however, that way of life is being challenged from two directions: Albany’s push to override local zoning authority, and unchecked overdevelopment that threatens the character of our neighborhoods. I want to be clear that my administration is not opposed to growth. We understand the need for more housing, including more affordable housing, to ensure that the next generation can stay on Long Island. But growth must be thoughtful, balanced and locally driven. It can never be dictated by Albany bureaucrats who neither live in nor understand our communities.
Governor Kathy Hochul’s latest plan to circumvent local zoning regulations is a direct threat to suburban Long Island. It is a one-size-fits-all mandate
that ignores the unique needs, infrastructure and character of towns like Hempstead. Local zoning exists for a reason. It allows communities to plan responsibly to ensure that roads, schools, public safety services and utilities can support new development. Stripping that authority away undermines decades of careful planning and silences the voices of the very residents these policies impact.
Decisions about our neighborhoods should be made by the people who live here and the officials they elect, not by distant policymakers focused on solving problems specific to New York City. Long Island is not Manhattan, and it should not be treated as such.
A lbany’s plan to curcumvent local zoning is a direct threat to suburban L.I.
At the same time, we have taken decisive action at the local level to protect the integrity of our neighborhoods. In Levittown, one of the most iconic suburban communities in America, we recently passed a zoning reform to address the rise of so-called McMansions. Often built by developers looking to maximize profit, these oversized homes, which dwarf neighboring properties and fundamentally alter the character of entire neighborhoods, have been replacing modest, affordable houses.
Levittown was built as a symbol of opportunity. After World War II, it provided affordable homes for returning veterans and their families. It was a place where the American Dream was within reach and where legacy mattered. We listened when residents came forward, voicing concerns about privacy, overcrowding, infrastructure strain and the loss of neighborhood character.
After extensive public hearings and community input, the Town Board unanimously voted to reduce the allowable building area on residential lots to align it with the majority of residential zoning restrictions in the Town of Hempstead. This strikes a balance between allowing homeowners to improve and modernize their properties and preventing overdevelopment that erodes the very charm that makes these neighborhoods special. When modest homes are replaced with million-dollar structures, we aren’t expanding opportunity. Rather, we are pricing families out and changing the fabric of our neighborhoods in ways that cannot be undone.
These two issues — Albany’s overreach and local overdevelopment — are connected by the need to protect our suburbs from decisions that prioritize
volume over value and expediency over community.
We also cannot ignore the broader context. As Albany struggles to pass a budget, we see proposals that include record spending increases, bailouts that disproportionately benefit New York City, and little meaningful relief for Long Island taxpayers. At a time when families are already feeling the pressure of rising costs, this approach is simply unsustainable.
I am proud to stand with many of Long Island’s leaders to say to Albany that enough is enough. We need a state government that respects local control, exercises fiscal responsibility and recognizes that Long Island deserves its fair share and should not be left as an afterthought in a city-centric agenda.
Protecting the suburbs doesn’t mean resisting all change. It means guiding change in a way that preserves what works while addressing what doesn’t. It means building housing that is attainable, not excessive. It means empowering local communities, not overriding them.
The Town of Hempstead will continue to stand firm on these crucial matters. We will defend our neighborhoods, uphold local decision-making and ensure that our suburbs remain places where families can thrive today and for generations to come.
John Ferretti is the Town of Hempstead supervisor.
Bill Bleyer knows Long Island history like few others
“Long Island Naval History in Wartime” was the title of a recent presentation by Bill Bleyer, the author of “Long Island and the Sea,” from which much of his talk was drawn. It is among seven books written by Bleyer published by The History Press. For 33 years, Bleyer was an award-winning Newsday reporter with a specialty in history and maritime issues. He has a deep personal involvement in the marine world, literally — as a diver. Indeed, in his talk earlier this month he told of diving to and exploring several boats sunk in waters off Long Island. Also, on the surface of area waters he has long operated a sailboat.
Bleyer, of Bayville, is a former president of the Press Club of Long Island. His gave his talk at the Sag Harbor Whaling and Historical Museum. It came as the museum features a number of events tied to the nation’s semiquincentennial. Bleyer will be back
at the museum on June 28, speaking on “Long Island in the American Revolution.”
He started his most recent talk by relating the first naval battle in Long Island history, which was also the first amphibious landing of troops in U.S. history. The British, Bleyer said, were using Gardiners Bay, and taking provisions from lands around it. So, George Washington, commander and chief of the Continental Army, ordered a landing of troops on Plum Island to remove livestock that otherwise would be taken by the British.
Tschooner, removing most of those on board but leaving four, including a free African American, William Tillman, the steward. They told Tillman they would sell him as a slave for $1,000 or more when they reached Charleston, S.C.
he naval battles fought off our shores? Sunken ships? He knows about them.
Bleyer detailed the subsequent Meigs Raid, also called the Battle of Sag Harbor, in which, in 1777, Continental soldiers, under the command of Lt. Col. Jonathan Meigs, a veteran of Bunker Hill, journeyed from Connecticut and attacked a British outpost in Sag Harbor.
During the Civil War, the Confederacy deployed “commerce raiders” to prey on Union shipping — including off Long Island. Bleyer spoke of the Confederate ship Jefferson Davis snaring the schooner S.J. Waring in 1861, southeast of the Island. The southerners, he said, put a five-man crew of their own on the
Subsequently, Bleyer related, Tillman led the recapture of the vessel, grabbing a hatchet on the boat and killing the Confederate captain and two officers with it. The ship went on to New York and, Bleyer said, Tillman’s actions and the recapture were celebrated throughout the North at a time when the Union had few victories to celebrate.
It was on Long Island in the late 19th century, Bleyer said, that submarines, and torpedoes that could be fired from them, were developed. He told of how submarine builder John P. Holland worked in New Suffolk, which became America’s first submarine base. Meanwhile, to the south, the E.W. Bliss Company was experimenting with torpedoes in Noyac Bay, off Sag Harbor.
During World War I, the only sinking of a U.S. capital, or main, warship by the enemy happened eight miles off Fire Island, Bleyer said. The vessel was the
USS San Diego, a cruiser that ran into a mine laid by a German U-boat.
Bleyer noted how, during World War II, there was an “unorthodox” U.S. wartime move: the formation of the Picket Patrol. With the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard short on warships and intense German U-boat activity in the region, a fleet of civilian sailboats, longer than 50 feet, were used. The absence of engines allowed them to patrol silently without detection by U-boats. They were painted battleship gray, and crewed by Coast Guard Reserve members who were connected by radio to military forces.
Meanwhile, this area became a major center for the construction of landing craft, minesweepers and rescue boats. They were built in Freeport, Greenport, Huntington, Oyster Bay and Port Washington.
“Long Island and the Sea” goes way beyond the Island’s wartime history and is a great read, full of photos, like Bleyer’s excellent talk. He’s on the lecture circuit — he told me he has 68 bookings ahead on subjects he has written about. Catch a talk — and his books.
Karl Grossman has been an investigative reporter in a variety of media for more than 50 years. He is a professor of journalism at the State University of New York at Old Westbury.
Water safety starts with vigilance
as summer approaches on Long Island, our communities eagerly embrace the joys of swimming, boating and waterfront leisure. From backyard pools to the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, aquatic activities are woven into our seasonal traditions.
With those pleasures, however, comes a paramount responsibility: ensuring water safety for all.
New York ranks fourth in the nation in drowning deaths. The state now requires all operators of motorized vessels, regardless of age, to possess a valid boating safety certificate. The requirement, established as part of Brianna’s Law — named in memory of 11-year-old Brianna Lieneck, who lost her life in a 2005 boating accident in the Great South Bay — is intended to make waterways safer.
Boaters can enroll in approved safety courses available in person and online. The BoatUS Foundation offers a free, state-approved online course, and the New York State Parks Adventure License program encourages boaters to add an anchor icon to their driver’s license to indicate completion of the course.
Water safety extends well beyond boats, to backyard and public swimming pools and Long Island’s many miles of beaches. Drowning remains a leading cause of accidental death
letters
Where is Hempstead’s affordable-housing plan?
To the Editor:
among children.
Suffolk County reported 24 drownings in 2024, a 60 percent increase over the prior year, based on statistics from Stony Brook University. Experts noted what they called an “alarming shift,” with 66 percent of drownings happening in backyard pools rather than open water, driven largely by a post-pandemic surge in pool installations. Nationwide, drowning remains a leading cause of unintentional-injury deaths among children ages 1 to 4.
To reduce the risks:
■ Always supervise children closely when they are in or near water. Avoid distractions, even when lifeguards are present.
■ Install fences with self-latching gates around pools to prevent unsupervised access. State law requires fences to be at least 4 feet high and to fully enclose pools.
■ Teach children to swim, learn yourself if you never have, and understand basic water safety rules.
■ Ensure that supervising adults are trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation so they can respond effectively in emergencies.
■ State law requires children under 12 to wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved lifejackets on boats smaller than 21 feet.
Re Joseph Scianablo’s op-ed, “We can’t solve a housing crisis with hypocrisy or politics,” in the May 14-20 issue: Scianablo, the Democratic candidate for Hempstead town supervisor, clearly stated the issues involved in dealing with the housing crisis. He also delineated steps that need to be taken to solve the problem.
One must wonder, what has the town’s leadership, under Supervisor John Ferretti, been doing about this housing crisis? No cogent plan has been followed to deal with the shortage of housing that’s affordable for young families or seniors wanting to downsize. A predictable pattern has developed, which we have witnessed with the Woodmere Country Club and Inwood/North Hempstead projects: A project is proposed by developers, there is an outcry from community residents who have reasonable concerns, and then there is expensive litigation, paid for with taxpayers’ hard-earned dollars.
Ferretti and the Town Board should have had a forward-looking housing plan in place. As proposed by candidate Scianablo, stakeholders
Lifejackets accessible to all passengers are essential on any vessel.
■ At public pools and beaches, pay attention to lifeguards, who are trained to identify hazards such as rip currents — fast-moving channels of water that can quickly pull swimmers away from shore.
■ Ask lifeguards about dangerous conditions, and swim only in designated areas. If caught in a rip current, stay calm and swim parallel to shore until free of the current.
Another major danger is after-hours swimming. When lifeguards are off duty, swimmers who are inexperienced, overconfident or impaired are left unmonitored, and that is when many drownings occur.
Early-season swimmers should also remember that ocean water remains dangerously cold well into late spring. Cold water quickly drains energy and increases the risk of distress, even for strong swimmers.
Water safety is everyone’s responsibility. Whether you’re watching children at a pool, enjoying a day at the beach or heading out on a boat, a few simple precautions can mean the difference between a close call and a tragedy. Long Island’s waters are meant to be enjoyed, but only if we treat them with the respect they demand.
including developers, union workers and residents must be engaged in planning housing projects for the needs of each unique community.
Instead of blaming Albany, our town
to deal with the housing crisis.
opinions
The disappearance of embarrassment
somewhere in Washington right now, custom bourbon bottles etched with FBI Director Kash Patel’s name and title are being distributed as tokens of power and prestige at taxpayer expense. Strange as it sounds, those bottles tell a much larger story about contemporary politics and politicians.
You don’t have to be a political historian to know that democracies have always produced their share of vain, incompetent and corrupt political opportunists. What feels different now is the brazenness — the complete disappearance of embarrassment and restraint among leaders, as well as citizens’ expectations that public officials at least appear to be answerable to the people they serve.
At a moment when millions of Americans are struggling to afford groceries, gasoline, rent, medication and health insurance, our “leaders” parade openly in a spectacle of self-glorification, ideological theater, open self-interest and flat-out contempt. The examples arrive almost daily:
A White House “ballroom” project that began as a supposedly privately
funded $200 million undertaking has steadily ballooned to a taxpayer-supported $1 billion monument to one man’s excesses.
A sitting president and his family are profiting from business ventures made possible only through political power. Airports, cultural institutions, public spaces and even passports are being renamed and revised in ways that elevate and glorify that president.
Patel’s custom bourbon bottles are etched with his name while taxpayers absorb the costs of an increasingly theatrical government culture.
Those personalized bourbon bottles seem sadly emblematic of the moment.
Other cabinet officials and agency heads appear openly hostile to, or ignorant of, the very missions of the departments they oversee.
A secretary of health and human services attacks scientific consensus, vaccine trust and established medical knowledge during a period of growing public health anxiety.
A secretary of defense speaks less like a sober administrator than a cablenews warrior wannabe posturing for cameras and political allies. Presidential social media tirades are aimed at journalists, critics, political opponents and private citizens — many dismissed as “low IQ,” “stupid,” dishonest, even treasonous.
LeTTers
Voters deserve to hear more from the candidates on housing
To the Editor:
Mr. Scianablo is half right. Politics is the only means we have to reconcile civil issues. What is required is the sort of politics Mr. Scianablo describes, where leadership seeks to “rise above the noise” and “tell the truth” to promote “honest conversations” and form “partnerships” that will work toward “thoughtful, community-driven planning.” That would mean a constructive confrontation with some hard words.
Nassau County’s leaders must acknowledge the truth that the housing issue can’t be “solved” at the county level, but progress can be
facilitated. Candidates for leadership must dismiss the noise to center the honest conversations on those few factors and limited partnerships within their purview and jurisdiction. This means devising a thoughtful plan for changes in zoning to encourage density at sites that provide transportation and public services — which will encourage builders and bankers to construct affordable units that make Nassau attractive to buyers, preferably families with children.
There are hard words here, but voters deserve to hear from each candidate some opening position from which they will begin their honest conversation, and what their vision is for a Nassau community plan to ameliorate its portion of the “crisis.”
Meanwhile, we are told every day that all is well, the economy is strong, the war is won, and that public concerns are exaggerated. Republican Sen. Tim Scott proclaimed on Fox Business last month that “You can even feel in our environment how good things are getting. Gas prices continue to come down, which means that your groceries will come down a little bit as well.”
As Scott spoke, gas and grocery prices were rising dramatically in his home state of North Carolina and around the country. Without embarrassment, he invented a picture of America that has no basis in reality.
That same day, on CNBC, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise said, “You go back two years ago, we were paying almost $6 a gallon for gasoline.” Two years ago, in mid-2024, the nationwide average price of gasoline was $3.66 per gallon. Without embarrassment, he made up a price easily disproved.
More and more Americans no longer believe what they are being told, because their own lives tell them otherwise. And alongside all of this come the vanity projects, the public self-glorification, the open profiteering, the personalized institutions, the theatrical insults and the endless performances of loyalty and power.
The deeper cultural shift isn’t simply these behaviors themselves, but how little civic alarm they now produce. Why, we should ask, do these officials feel no shame, or even just a little embarrassment? But mostly we don’t ask. Too often we give up on demanding competence, dignity and social awareness in our leaders.
Why? Or maybe the question should be how? How can people who call themselves leaders act with so much contempt toward the people who put them in positions of authority? A healthy republic depends on leaders understanding that public office carries obligations larger than ego, profit, loyalty rituals and selfcelebration. It depends on some continuing sense that, at the very least, public suffering should impose limits on displays of extravagance and self-interest.
Evidently, our leaders feel no such constraints; they feel not one shred of embarrassment about the lies and excesses that have come to characterize them. For many of them, holding office means little more than having permission to engage in public spectacle, branding, self-celebration and acts of contempt in plain sight.
Which may be why those personalized bourbon bottles feel oddly — and sadly — emblematic of the political moment itself.
Michael Blitz is professor emeritus and former chair of interdisciplinary studies at City University of New York.
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Framework by Tim Baker
At Molloy University’s graduation, that’s President James Lentini on guitar — Jones Beach
