GRADUATES
A bubbly start to the summer
The Tiny Songbirds, Terrence and Jamie Blum-Marciano, opened Island Park’s summer reading program with a concert on the second day of the season. Story, more photos, Page 10.
Anthony’s Trendz manager rethinks his future after pickup truck crash
By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com
Just weeks after winning a 2025 Long Island Choice Award as one of the region’s top barber shops, Anthony’s Trendz, in Island Park, was left in ruins after a pickup truck barreled through its storefront in the middle of the night on June 9.
Owner Anthony Virasammi, who has managed the shop since 2008, got a call at 1:30 a.m. that Mon day from a longtime customer who happened to drive past the business. When Virasammi arrived after the hour plus long drive from his home in Coram, the front of the shop was unrecognizable.
“There were cops everywhere,” he said. “They told me it was a crime scene. The guy was drunk;
he didn’t have a license. I found out later it wasn’t even his car. Four different IDs on him.”
The crash, which occurred at around 12:30 a.m., destroyed half of the building on Austin Boule vard. The east side of the shop — home to four bar ber stations, a nail technician station, mirrors, televisions and thousands of dollars’ worth of hairstyling tools — was leveled. Shards of glass, broken equipment and crumpled furniture littered the floor. The damage was so severe that the Town of Hempstead condemned the space, leaving Virasammi unable to begin repairs until his land lord, Raffaele Vissione returns from vacation this Saturday.
“I had no sleep that night,” he recounted. “I
Highlighting a standout year at Friedberg JCC
By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com
The Friedberg JCC in Oceanside brought together more than 100 members, volun teers and staff during its annual meeting on June 17, celebrating a year of remarkable growth, service and community build ing.
Fred Richman, the JCC’s longtime board chair, said the JCC now offers before and after school care, summer camps, extended‑day services and early childhood education across multiple neighborhoods.
ences at JCC Bellmore, Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds and Camp Ga’avah.
T he year ahead holds exciting opportunities.
RoNNIE KLEINmAN CEO, Friedberg JCC
“We helped estab lish Camp Sunrise, which has grown beyond our wildest imagination,” he said.
“Our always‑full parking lot is more than just a daily bustle,” Richman added. “It’s a powerful symbol of how many lives we touch each day.”
He also highlighted Camp Ga’avah, the center’s LGBTQ+ youth initiative, which “pro vides a safe and joyful space” for children and families.
In total, the center provided more than 350 children with enriching summer camp experi
JCC Executive Director Roni Kleinman reviewed the past year and described new partner ships that now provide universal pre K to more than 300 children in collaboration with eight school districts. The center’s full day daycare served more than 600 youngsters, and its after school programs reached more than 500 stu dents at 11 sites in five communities. Kleinman added that the JCC deep ened mental health offerings, expanded outreach to isolated older adults through support groups and memory care programming, and taught more than 800 people to swim through its aquatics pro gram.
A highlight from this year was also the center’s career readiness efforts, including the opening of Harvey’s Café on the JCC campus. Named in honor of longtime advocate and former Assemblyman Harvey Weisen berg, the café offers real world job training to individuals with
Continued on page 12
Tim Baker/Herald
‘Being Somebody’ delivers humor, heart, and history at Friedberg JCC
An intergenerational story of love, legacy, and laughter unfolded on stage at the Friedberg JCC as audiences experienced Being Somebody – The Show, a moving father-daughter performance on June 19.
Starring 89-year-old psychologist Dr. Howard Mase and his daughter, artist Marla Mase, the production wove together storytelling, music, and movement to explore their personal histories—spanning from 1940s Brooklyn to the 1970s. With heartfelt reflections and
comedic flair, the Mases shared life lessons and generational insight, making for an evening that was as poignant as it was entertaining.
Directed by Elizabeth Browning, with original music by Marla Mase and Tomás Doncker, the show drew a warm response from the crowd, who appreciated the rare opportunity to witness a real-life family narrative unfold live on stage.
— Kepherd Daniel
Marla Mase stared in her role in the play “Being Somebody” which is based on her father Howard Mase’s youth growing up ion Brooklyn, Howard looks on as his daughter performs a musical scene.
Jason Thomas/Herald
The play ‘Being Somebody’ starred the father and daughter team of Howard and Marla Mase.
From Vietnam to Veterans Hall of Fame
By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com
When Harbor Isle resident Commander Luke Magliaro was officially inducted into the New York State Senate’s Veterans Hall of Fame this May, it marked another milestone in a life already defined by sacrifice, service, and steadfast commitment to fellow veterans.
Magliaro is a decorated U.S. Navy veteran was honored by Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick for his decades of military service and tireless advocacy on behalf of Long Island veterans.
“Commander Magliaro’s courage in combat and decades of leadership in the veteran community truly make him a deserving honoree,” said Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick in a release. “He is not only a decorated war hero, but also a tireless advocate for our veterans here at home. From his service in Vietnam to his continued work helping local veterans navigate the support systems they’ve earned; Commander Magliaro embodies the very best of American service and sacrifice.”
For Magliaro, who currently serves as the Veteran Services counselor for the Town of Hempstead, the recognition is less about personal accolades and more about shining a spotlight on the pressing needs of the veteran community.
I’m honored, but it’s not about me—it’s about the veterans
LuKE MAgLIARo Town Veteran Services Counselor
Mayor Michael McGinty, personally spoke before the county legislature to support the initiative and worked with local officials, including former Congressman Anthony D’Esposito to secure unanimous approval.
“It was one of the items that all parties agreed upon,” he said. “We’re excited and can’t wait for this program to start.”
Magliaro is a decorated U.S. Navy veteran whose distinguished service spanned 30 years. As a Naval Flight Officer during the Vietnam War, he participated in several historic operations, including Operation Baby Lift, Operation Frequent Wind, and the recovery of the SS Mayagüez, recognized as the final U.S. military action of the Vietnam War. For his service, Commander Magliaro earned numerous commendations, including the Purple Heart, Navy-Marine Corps Medal, and Defense Meritorious Service Medal.
Magliaro was welcomed by his local Veterans of Foreign Wars post. It was there he planted roots in a community that would define his post-military mission.
Over the past 51 years, Magliaro has
“I’m honored, but it’s not about me—it’s about the veterans,” Magliaro said. “It’s a passion that I have. They needed to rebuild the foundation here. This office was vacant for over a year, and that’s why I’m here. I was very content with starting my retired life. But I’m here because it’s a passion. 99 percent of those of us who are involved in veterans organizations, who hold office or participate in the programs, some don’t want to be the committee chairperson or the commander, they just want to participate, and they do it just like why I do it, because of a passion.”
worked his way through the ranks of the VFW—serving as Post Commander, County Commander, and District Commander, and later becoming Chief of Staff for the Department of New York and National Deputy Chief of Staff. He even helped create VFW District 10, which encompasses all posts within Nassau County. Magliaro joined the VFW in 1974 while still on active duty in Vietnam and continued his involvement after being released from active duty in 1977.
Through his leadership, he’s become a trusted advisor to local, state, and national elected officials on veterans’ issues, regardless of party affiliation.
“I don’t care if a legislator is Republican or Democrat,” he said. “They work for the people—just like I work for veterans. That’s the mission.”
As Director of Veteran Services, a position he took in February of this year, he processes claims for veterans and their families, working strictly within VA guidelines, navigating federal bureaucracy, and advocating for resources that continue to lag behind the needs.
“I’m not happy with a lot of things, but I’m looking out for veterans, first and foremost, and their families,” he said.
Last year, Nassau County announced the veterans housing project in Island Park, a partnership between Nassau County, Tunnel to Towers, and local officials, which will repurpose the former Long Beach Motor Inn into permanent supportive housing for homeless veterans. Magliaro, along with Island Park
Though Magliaro spent years working and living in New Jersey, his heart has always remained on Long Island. A native of Inwood, he returned to Nassau County and moved to Harbor Isle 18 years ago.
He later worked for the Village of Cedarhurst before assuming his current role with the Town of Hempstead earlier this year.
Magliaro believes the community is blessed with local and state leaders who genuinely support veterans—but he also emphasizes the need for more funding, less red tape, and a greater public awareness of what veterans truly face after service.
“You know, veterans aren’t just soldiers,” he said. “They’re doctors, lawyers, firefighters, police officers, all of the above. They continue to serve. The least we can do is serve them in return.”
For Magliaro, service didn’t end with his naval career—it simply evolved. hile the honors are meaningful, he measures success by the people he’s helped and the lives he’s impacted.
“I promised myself when I came back from Vietnam that I would help veterans and their families,” he said. “And I think I’ve kept that promise.”
Courtesy office of Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick
Luke Magliaro was selected as the 2025 New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame Inductee for Senate District 9 by Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick on May 27.
News briefs
Election panel spotlights voter access
By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com
Residents gathered at the Friedberg JCC on June 12 for “Fair and Free Elections,” a panel discussion hosted by the League of Women Voters. League representatives deconstructed the mechanics of gerrymandering, outlined New York’s four voting methods and urged voters to engage in this year’s crowded local races.
League of Women Voters redistricting expert Karen Moskowitz illustrated how warped district maps dilute communities’ voices.
“An election district is supposed to be compact and contiguous,” Moskowitz said, displaying maps with “skinny bridges” that reach into neighborhoods to scoop up select voters. Using a hypothetical 50–50 county split, she described “cracking”—spreading opposition voters thinly across multiple districts—and “packing”—consolidating them into a single district. In her example, a party in the majority could guarantee itself three of four seats before ballots are cast.
Moskowitz warned that gerrymandering can shutter communities’ influence over schools, roads and water quality, which can affect entire communities.
“Take a school district that’s been split across several voting districts. Suddenly, they’re a micro-minority and get ignored by their representative,” Moskowitz said. “That means fewer resources, underpaid teachers, and fewer programs. Your vote is your voice. Without it, others make decisions for you.”
League member Barbara Epstein noted that districts—like Nassau’s 4th Legislative District, which includes parts of East Rockaway, Island Park, southeast Oceanside, Rockville Centre, and Lynbrook—can be made difficult for representatives to serve equally when they are fragmented.
“When we talk about gerrymandering and when the lines are drawn, it’s hard for a legislator, particularly, worse at the town level, to turn around
say, ‘I want to serve as my constituents, but I have a little bit here and a little bit there. How do I deal with it?”
The panel distributed voter registration forms, change-of-address updates, and information about early and mail-in voting. Epstein also highlighted New York’s participation in ERIC, the Electronic Registration Information Center, which helps clean up voter rolls by identifying voters who move or pass away.
This year’s local contests—county executive, district attorney, town supervisor and all county legislature seats—directly shape daily services.
As the panel closed, the message was clear: understanding redistricting, exercising all available voting options and turning out for every election—no matter how small—are vital to preserving representative government.
“Local elections are probably the most important elections of all, because they affect us on an everyday basis,” Epstein said. “If you have a problem with your street light, you’re going to call your local official, not your Congressperson.”
New Yorkers have four ways to vote
In person on Election Day at one’s assigned polling place
Early voting at any of 27 Nassau County sites during the 10 days preceding Election Day
Absentee ballot for those unable to appear in person
Vote-by-mail, newly available to all registered voters for one year
Synopsis: “The Book of Joy” — Part 1 of 4
Lasting Happiness in a Changing World
In April of 2015, these two Nobel Peace Prize laureates celebrated His Holiness’s 80th birthday by meeting for a week at the Tibetan leader’s exiled home in Dharamshala, India. Their purpose? To answer the question: How do we find joy in the face of life’s inevitable suffering?
“From the moment of birth, every human being wants to discover happiness and avoid suffering. Sadly, many of the things that undermine our joy and happiness we create ourselves. Often it comes from the negative tendencies of the mind, emotional reactivity, or from our inability to appreciate and utilize the resources that exist within us. We create most of our suffering. So it should be logical that we also have the ability to create more joy. It simply depends on the attitudes, the perspectives, and the reactions we bring to situations and to relationships with other people. When it comes to personal happiness there is a lot that we as
individuals can do”, says the Dalai Lama
“The problem is that our world and our education focuses on external, materialistic values. We are not concerned enough with inner values. I believe everyone has the responsibility to develop a happier world. We need, ultimately, to have a greater concern for others’ well-being. In other words, kindness or compassion, which is lacking now. We must pay more attention to our inner values. We must look inside,” he further states.
Lasting joy – joy as a way of being – arises from the serenity of deep well-being and benevolence, say the authors.
A strong sense of concern for the well-being of others will make you happy in the morning, says the Dalai Lama, even before coffee. Even ten minutes of meditating on compassion, on kindness to others, and you will see its effects all day. That’s the way to maintain a calm and joyous mind.
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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.
I.P. showing support for longtime business
drove down, saw the wreckage, went back home and had to drive right back again. Nobody could get in there until the landlord comes back, according to the town.”
Anthony’s Trendz, which once housed a full-service team of eight barbers as well as nail technicians and estheticians, is now operating at a fraction of its capacity. The barbershop was uniquely designed, with two connected but distinct sides: one for walk-ins, the other for appointments. But the crash rendered one side unusable. During the downtime, four of the barbers sought work elsewhere to keep up with client demand — and when Virasammi called to let them know the shop was back up and running, they informed him they wouldn’t return.
“On top of losing half of my business, I lost half of my workers, and it’s been rough,” he said. “It’s only been a few weeks. I have months,” he added, referring to the time that it may take to make repairs and find more workers. “Who knows how long it’s going to take me to rebuild again?”
Virasammi had worked with the barbers for over a decade. Their sudden departure forced him to reconsider the future of his shop — and his role in rebuilding it. As of this week, just three chairs were active: Virasammi himself and two barbers. Walk-in traffic was slow.
“Some people think we’re closed,” he said. “The windows are still boarded up. You drive by and it doesn’t look open.”
This isn’t the first time Virasammi has faced adversity at Anthony’s Trendz. His journey to becoming a successful barbershop owner began when he was 21, and working full-time in a pharmacy while attending barber school in Manhattan.
Before coming to Island Park, he lived in Freeport and worked at Leon’s Barbershop, in Oceanside. Pondering where to open his own shop, he strategically chose
Island Park because it was “a town away” from Oceanside. After four years of training and working at Leon’s, Virasammi took a bold step and opened Trendz Barber Shop in Island Park in June 2008.
What started as a single-chair operation gradually expanded over 17 years into a thriving business offering haircuts, waxing and nail services. Virasammi has navigated numerous challenges over the course of his nearly two decades in the community, but he is now the father of three young children, a 2-year-old and 1-year-old twins, and the stakes are higher.
“I’m going from very busy to almost nothing,” he said. “I’m still blessed to still have one side running. If I rebuild that side, I’m going to spend so much money to rebuild it with almost no barbers. But I’ve been getting a lot of text messages, a lot of phone calls — ‘Hang in
there, buddy,’ you know, ‘I’ll see you soon for a haircut.’”
His current lease obligates him to continue paying rent for both sides of the space for at least another year as he works to rebuild clientele. Virasammi is now considering subletting the damaged side of the building and focusing on the side that remains operational.
“They came to my house during Covid, when you couldn’t get a haircut, it was awesome of them,” Island Park resident Ian Pascoe wrote in a Facebook post.
Even in the post-crash chaos, Anthony’s Trendz continues to draw support. Customers have texted or called to check in. Some, redirected to former barbers, have returned, saying they would rather stay local.
“I have been going to Anthony Trendz for 13 years now for haircuts for my kids,” Nicole Joanne, of Island Park, wrote on Facebook. “The only place I trust 100 percent with my children. During Covid, Anthony came to my house and still took care of us. We have used every barber in that shop for cuts, but mainly book with Joe now. My kids love him. They aren’t just our barber guys, they are friends.”
Virasammi is prioritizing operational simplicity, considering options like maintaining just one chair to reduce management challenges.
“I don’t see myself running two barber shops again,” he said, adding that he hoped to create a sustainable business model that allows him to balance professional responsibilities with family life.
But, he said, he’s committed to continuing his work and serving the community, which has supported him since he was 21 and just getting started.
“People are asking every day if I’ll rebuild,” he said. “Right now I’m just focused on what I have. One day at a time. Trusting God. I have to do what I have to do. I survived the recession, I survived Superstorm Sandy, I survived Covid-19, and I’m going to survive this.”
Courtesy Anthony Virasammi
The damage done by the pickup truck that crashed into the front entrance of Anthony’s Trendz barbershop, in Island Park, on June 9.
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.
I.P. opens summer with fun and reading
The Island Park Public Library launched its 2025 Children’s Summer Reading Program on Saturday,with a lively outdoor concert featuring Tiny Songbirds. Families filled the library’s parking lot, many bringing beach chairs and blankets to enjoy the warm weather and cheerful tunes.
The event marked the official start of the “Color Our World” reading program, open to Island Park residents. Children were invited to register for the
Summer Reading Club and pick up their reading passports to track their literary adventures throughout the summer. Library staff distributed information on prizes, incentives, and upcoming programs, while the concert brought dancing, clapping, and plenty of laughter to the crowd. The kickoff event set the tone for a season of interactive learning, fun, and community spirit.
— Kepherd Daniel
Tim Baker/Herald
Library director Jessica Koenig with Library staff and outgoing trustee Joe Potecorvo and incoming trustee Yvonne Graci and her 14-month-old grandson Lucas Arvelo.
Nine-year old Joie Herfield holding one-year old Kameron Herfield.
Two-year old Peyton Fichtellberg of Island Park had a blast at the concert.
Community garden thriving at Oceanside Cove
By Lauren Maggiore Intern
Oceanside Cove’s community garden has been thriving since its re-cultivation, under the direction of Leona Marx, Oceanside Cove Community chairwoman. With the help of Ed Russo, assistant manager at Oceanside Cove, the garden has been engineered into a sustainable garden providing serenity and community to Oceanside residents. The garden’s purpose consists not only of growing fruits, vegetables, spices, and flowers; it also serves as a meeting place for community members to share information and learn from each other about the most effective ways to grow produce.
“We utilize compost almost exclusively,” said Donna Grossman, Oceanside Cove resident and contributor to the garden. “There is little waste from our garden.”
While local libraries contribute seed programs at no cost, the garden has prospered as it successfully grows lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, potatoes, zucchini, peppers, and a variety of spices.
“We have recently donated fruits and vegetables to our local food banks and will continue to do so as we discover those in need.” said Grossman, who frequently walks through the garden and describes it as a “place of serenity.”
The garden contains a small greenhouse used to start growing plants until they are ready to be directly sowed. Members of the Cove community are encouraged to partake in sustaining the garden by renting a bed for the upcoming planting season. The rental fee is minimal and the care provided by residents is a key to the garden’s success, only requiring 1 hour of care per week to flourish. When the idea of a community garden was presented about 10 years ago
to the Oceanside Cove Board of Managers, they were adverse to the idea, fearing animals could be destructive to the grounds because of the garden’s growth. However, after years of persistence from chairwoman Marx, the garden was approved and has flourished in the community since. Marx works tirelessly to keep the garden and the life around it thriving as they plant wildflowers for pollination and milkweed to benefit the nearby butterflies. Through its four years of existence, the garden has not only cultivated
Oceanside Cove residents have a new garden to explore this summer.
plants, but also friendships between community members who share a passion for nature and helping the community. Marx describes the garden as a “place of meeting, growing, sharing, educating, and communing with nature and each other.”
Complete with benches and tables with umbrellas, the garden serves as a wonderful place for community members to relax in the summer warmth and appreciate the surrounding nature in the Cove community.
Courtesy Donna Grossman
Donna Grossman shows off the flourishing Oceanside Cove community garden.
Staff, volunteers honored for their service
differing abilities.
“The year ahead holds exciting opportunities,” Kleinman said. “We’ll continue growing our mental health programs, expand workforce development initiatives and deepen our partnership to reach even more individuals and families, wherever they are on their journey.”
Three volunteers — Elliot Hurst, Robert Hyman and Ron White — received Community Service Awards for their dedication to the JCC.
Hurst was recognized for his steadfast presence at fundraisers and events.
“Without the unwavering support of members and volunteers like Elliot, many of the incredible things we accomplished at the Friedberg JCC would not be possible,” Sabrina Demiris, operations support and special events manager, said. “We’re grateful for Elliot’s dedication to community values and his generous spirit.”
Hyman was honored for greeting new members and assisting with daily operations.
“You are a great ambassador to new members, guiding them and guiding them, thank you for all you do,” John Wozniack, chief operating officer at the Friedberg JCC, told Hyman at the meeting. “You are a true friend of the JCC, and your willingness to always answer the call. ”
White was singled out for his work at book fairs, the Memory Café and weekly Ping-Pong for Parkinson’s sessions.
“Ron is a long-standing member of the JCC, and consistently comes to our facility and brightens our day with his warm smile,” Jackie Ruiz, senior program officer of wellness and member services, said. “Over the past year, I’ve noticed Ron’s dedication to volunteering at nearly every event and opportunity that we have.”
Wozniak also presented staff milestone awards, acknowledging employees who have given 10, 20, 25 and
30 years of service, and handed the Nathan and Muriel Glanz Award to two staffers: Demiris and Amilcar Sandoval.
Demiris was praised for her creativity in event programming, which she has led for two years.
“Never did I imagine I would find a job that would give me so much creative freedom,” Demiris said. “Working here has been incredibly fulfilling. So much of what I do involves planning community events, working with volunteers and running mission-based projects. I’ve had the chance to meet so many wonderful, wonderful people, not just here at our JCC, but across the entire JCC network, through classes and programs.”
Sandoval was commended for his behind-the-scenes excellence in facility operations over 25 years.
“I have been with the JCC for 25 years, and I am blessed to have had the big opportunity to work for the family of the JCC, thank you,” Sandoval said.
Richman also paid tribute to outgoing treasurer Alan Carlton, whose multi-decade leadership guided the center through key mergers and financial stewardship.
“His presence has been dearly missed, but his legacy will continue to guide us,” Richman said.
Immediate Past Chair Richard Fromewick swore in the 2025–26 board of directors and officers, asking them to uphold the center’s constitution and bylaws.
“All volunteers, their time and effort, their passion, their commitment, to make this JCC a strong, viable part of the community, and we have succeeded,” Fromewick said.
Sky Margies/Herald
Cheryl Cusimano, far left, Amanda Ciociano, Andrea Ahearne, Jenny Del Carmen Ramirez and Bruno Hernandez with their awards honoring 10 years of service.
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.
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
‘Summer of Love’ Pet Adoption
The Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter welcomes summer with the return of its “Summer of Love” pet adoption program. Now through Sept. 1 all pet adoption fees will be waived, making it easier than ever to adopt a pet. Each adoption includes free spaying/ neutering, vaccinations and microchipping. Additionally, there is only a $10 licensing fee for dogs. This summer, spread the love and provide a fur-ever home to these shelter animals. Check out the friendly faces of the dogs and cat before arriving at shelter. Browse photos and profiles at hempsteadny. gov/179/animal-shelter or on the shelter’s Facebook page.
• Where: 3320, Beltagh Ave., Wantagh
• Time: Ongoing
• Contact: at hempsteadny. gov/179/animal-shelter or (516) 785-5220
Summer Reading Kick Off Festival
Family fun with Petra Puppets, School of Rock, music bingo, lawn games, food trucks and more at Oceanside Library. It ends with Shrek on the Green! Some activities require registration.
• Where: 30 Davison Ave., Oceanside
• Time: 6 p.m.
He said, she said
JULY
• Where: Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
JULY
Little Learners Art Lab
3
Each week in this engaging workshop, participants are introduced to hands-on materials, artmaking, and inspiration from artists and techniques. Young kids, ages 2-5, build critical thinking skills, expand vocabulary, and support imaginations as they play, create and explore. This week families create a vibrant firework painting. $4 with museum admission.
• Where: Museum Row, Garden City
• Time: 11:30 a.m.-noon
• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800
TD Bank ‘Celebrate America’
Eisenhower Park welcomes the annual TD Bank Celebrate America Fireworks and Show. Enjoy tunes with Chicken Head and Glenn Strange Band, followed by fireworks. As always, bring seating. Rain date is July 5.
• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow
• Time: 5:30 p.m.
• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov
JUNE
27
John Fabrizio
Old-Fashioned
Junior Firefighter’s Tournament
Island Park Fire Department, hosts this annual event that invites kids ages 5-13 to participate in fun and spirited firefighting-themed challenges. It begins with a parade, then a tournament featuring ladder climbing, gear races and more.
• Where: Parade steps off from the Firehouse at 5 p.m., followed by tournament at Masone Beach, Island Park
• Contact: islandparkfd.org
JUNE
Independence Day Salute to Veterans Concert/ Fireworks
Town of Hempstead’s annual extravaganza features a concert with The Commodores. Contest sign-ups are open for the volleyball tournament, sandcastle building competition, and the ever-popular hot dog eating contest. These contests
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: oceansidelibrary.com are followed by a heartfelt tribute to local veterans, concert and a spectacular fireworks and drone display. Rain date is June 29.
• Where: Town Park Point Lookout, Lido Beach
• Time: Starting at 3 p.m.
• Contact: townofhempsteadevents.com
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 entertainment-related 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 FoliesBergère in Paris. On view June 28 to Nov. 9.
• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor
• Time: Ongoing
• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337
JUNE
Kiwanis Bicycle Challenge Ride in support of others. The Nassau Bicycle Challenge (formerly Nassau to Suffolk Bicycle Challenge) supports the work of the Kiwanis Club of North Shore Foundation. It supports charities such as Kiwanis Pediatric Trauma Center, Pediatric Lyme Disease Foundation, Kamp Kiwanis, NOSH, Boys and Girls Club and charities aligned with those of Kiwanis International “Serving the Children of the World”, including Kiwanis’ signature programs of Klothes 4 Kids, Koats 4 Kids and Kicks 4 Kids. The beautiful ride through the Gold Coast features picturesque vistas and water views. Choose from a 25 mile loop with 1,060 feet of vertical climb or the more challenging ride with an additional 10 mile loop, totalling 35 miles, with 1,600
• Contact: (516) 767-6444 or landmarkonmainstreet.org
feet of vertical climb. Routes are clearly marked and ride is equipped with a rest stop. Snacks and water provided. Sponsorships also available. Online registration ends June 24, but walk-ins are welcome. Online registration is $50, day of is $60.
• Where: Starting at Harry Tappen Beach, Sea Cliff
• Time: Staggered starts, rain or shine
• Contact: n2nbc.org
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
JULY
4
Lets move at Mercy Mercy Hospital invites everyone to walk for health and doand simple movement exercises at specific locations around the Mercy campus. Lets make this season your healthiest yet. Walking is the easiest way to be the healthiest version of you. Studies have shown that it can drastically improve your health and even help prevent ailments such as Type 2 diabetes, cancer and heart disease. With free blood pressure screening, exercise demonstration and giveaways.
• Where: 1000 North Village Ave., Rockville Centre
• Time: Ongoing Thursdays, noon–1 p.m.
• Contact: chsli.org/mercy-hospital
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.
June is Men’s Mental Health Month
June is Men’s Mental Health Month, a global campaign dedicated to raising awareness about the mental health challenges faced by men. A time to discuss and deactivate the archaic, “cultural stigma” men inherit, while encouraging men of all ages to prioritize their physical and emotional health and well-being. Why? Because as we all know, men deeply feel, care, love and hurt, and yet, feel it is necessary to maintain the stiffupper-lip mentality when suffering with emotional pain. To “man up,” as though your gender alone should suffice to guide you through your darkest times, when in fact, it takes real courage to seek help in addressing any brain health-related illness, and the “toxic stigma” attached to it!
The Purpose of Raising Awareness:
To reduce stigma and support men in prioritizing their mental well-being, as this is crucial for improving their overall well-being and quality of life.
To promote and focus on addressing the unique mental health struggles faced by men, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
To educate men about the signs and
symptoms of mental health disorders. Men’s mental health is important: The prevalence of mental health disorders is lower in men than in women. However, men are also more likely to die by suicide than women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In addition, Mental Health America states that more than 6 million American men experience symptoms of depression annually, and most go undiagnosed.
Risk factors that can make men more vulnerable:
Genetic factors: Men with a family history of depression may be more likely to develop it than those whose family members do not have the illness.
Illness: depression can occur with other serious medical illnesses as well as life-altering injuries.
What are we missing?
Environmental, psychological, and social stresses: financial problems, loss of a loved one, a difficult relationship, major life changes, work problems, loneliness, lack of support, inability to effectively deal with stress, early childhood trauma, or aging in isolation with few social outlets.
According to, Association of American Medical College, it is time that primary care physicians, mental health service providers, and policymakers look critically at the accuracy and utility of their assumptions and explanations for men’s rates of depression, anxiety, burnout, substance abuse, and other common mental health conditions. The current framework has limited our ability to offer real solutions that meet men where they are and give them the tools to not only survive, but to “thrive.”
Encouraging Self-Care and Health Coping Mechanisms
Promoting self-care and healthy coping mechanisms is essential for men’s mental health. Encouraging physical activity, adequate sleep, and a balanced diet can significantly impact mental well-being. Engaging in hobbies, cre -
ative outlets, and mindfulness practices can also provide effective stress relief. Encouraging men to seek activities that foster connection, such as joining volunteer groups, or hobby groups, can help combat isolation and build supportive social networks.
Bottom line: Based on current research, it is critical for all men to have “cultural support” and why it’s time to consider men’s mental health in its full context and shift the focus to the ways our health care systems and providers are equipped to deliver services to improve men’s mental health.
On a personal note: Check in with the men in your life. Let them know they do not have to carry it all alone! To actively help break toxic stigma, while helping to support building healthy connections, as this is what can help save precious lives. After all, when we help to lift the hurting heart of another, we also help to heal the hurting heart of humanity
Donna Pisacano-Brown is a Point Lookout resident who has been a columnist featured in local newspapers since 1996. She is a passionate advocate for drunken driving awareness, and shining a light on mental health topics.
Donna Pisacano Brown
Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU MIDFIRST BANK, Plaintiff AGAINST DONALD SCHREINER, JR., MICHELLE RANOLDE-SCHREINER, ET AL., Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered June 25, 2024, 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 July 9, 2025 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 235 Madison Ave., Oceanside, NY 11572. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, at Foxhurst Park, Oceanside, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 54 Block 239 Lot 156. Approximate amount of judgment $490,828.12 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #612438/2022. Jane Shrenkel, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-003408 85875 153880
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU
U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST BENTZION R. KAMINETZKY, SHARONTH C. KAMINETZKY, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 11, 2025, 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 July 22, 2025 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 3365 3rd Street, Oceanside, NY 11572. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Oceanside, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, and State of New York,
Section 43 Block 354 Lot 46. Approximate amount of judgment $553,894.73 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #616025/2023. Louis B. Imbroto, Esq., Referee Gros s Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 23-001253 85793 154085
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD
LOCAL LAW NO.
37-2025
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held June 17, 2025 by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 37-2025, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 37-2025, amending Section 202-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at various locations.
Dated: June 17, 2025 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD
DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR.
Supervisor
KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 154272
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD
LOCAL LAW NO. 39-2025
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held June 17, 2025, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 39-2025, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law
No. 39-2025, amending Section 197-13 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to repeal “TRAFFIC REGULATIONS IN THE VICINITY OF SCHOOLS” at various locations.
Dated: June 17, 2025 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD
DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR.
Supervisor
KATE MURRAY
Town Clerk 154274
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 Old Town Hall, 350 Front Street, Room 230, Second Floor, Hempstead, New York on 07/02/2025 at 2:00 P.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:
THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 2:00 P.M.
375/25. OCEANSIDEChief Real Estate Management LLC, Special exception to use part of premises for overnight storage of automobiles & permission to park in the front yard setback on Fairview Ave. (maintain auto repair shop in existing building), variance in off-street parking with insufficient back-up space., N/E cor. Long Beach Rd. & Fairview Ave., a/k/a 2873-2879 Long Beach Rd. 376/25. OCEANSIDEPicklexpo LLC, Special exception to use part of premises for place of public assembly & amusement (proposed expansion to existing sports facility), Variance in off-street parking & special exception to park in front yard setback., The Northerly end of Maple Ct., 250.98’ N/o Hampton Rd., a/k/a 3573 Maple Ct. ALL PAPERS
PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR
INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550.
This notice is only for new cases in Oceanside 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
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 other matters as may properly come before it.
154280
Giancarlo Mele, Kaiden Callanan, Jayden Velez, Vincent Mele and Jack
enjoyed the annual feast.
Oceanside Community comes out for St. Anthony’s Feast and 5K walk
More than 200 runners and walkers turned out on June 14 for the annual St. Anthony’s Feast 5K Family Fun Run and Walk in Oceanside. The event welcomed participants of all ages for a morning of fitness, fun, and community spirit.
The first 200 registrants received commemorative T-shirts, and all partici-
pants enjoyed $5 in food and drink tickets following the race.
Proceeds from the event help support parish initiatives and local outreach. Organizers thanked the volunteers, sponsors, and families who made the event a success.
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 41-2025
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held on the 17th day of June, 2025, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 41-2025, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Local Law No. 41-2025, to consider the amendment of a local law to enact Section 56-9 of Chapter 56 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead regarding criminal history record checks.
Dated:Hempstead, New York June 17,2025 BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD
KATHLEEN P. MURRAY Town Clerk
DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor 154267
responders kept
safe so it was all fun, games and rides at
Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 36-2025
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held June 17, 2025, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 36-2025, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 36-2025, amending Chapter 202 of the Code of the Town of
Hempstead, to include and repeal “REGULATIONS & RESTRICTIONS” to limit parking at various locations.
Dated: June 17, 2025 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD
DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 154271
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK NATIONAL, ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO BANK OF AMERICA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE AS SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO LASALLE
BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF BEAR STEARNS ASSET BACKED SECURITIES I LLC, ASSET BACKEDCERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-EC2, Plaintiff, vs. OMWANTIE SOOKNANDAN, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on November 9, 2023, 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 25, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 3834 Carrel Boulevard a/k/a 3834 Carrel Avenue, Oceanside, NY 11572. All that certain plot,
piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Oceanside, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 0060, Block 00040-000 and Lot 00020. Approximate amount of judgment is $1,375,942.95 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #008588/2013. Pallvi Babbar, Esq., Referee Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, LLC, 10 Bank Street, Suite 700, White Plains, New York 10606, Attorneys for Plaintiff 154240
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Documents? 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.
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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.
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
We
Aat 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.
need to stop the attacks on America’s elected leaders
lot 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
SHERALD
Summer is too deadly for teen drivers
ummer 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.
Israel’s strike on Iran wasn’t just self-defense
in a world clouded by confusion, moral relativism and media distortion, Israel just reminded us all what moral clarity looks like. When Israel launched a bold, decisive strike on Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure, it wasn’t just protecting itself — it was protecting the free world. For weeks, the media narrative tried to create a rift where there was none. Headlines spoke of division between Israel and the United States, between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Trump. But many of us saw through the noise. This wasn’t a fracture — it was four-dimensional chess when the rest of the world was playing checkers.
Israel’s message was clear: It will not sit idly by while the world’s largest state sponsor of terror builds weapons of mass destruction. And although America eventually got involved, too, Israel’s confidence to act came from the knowledge that, with the right leadership, the United States stands with her — not above her, not behind her, but beside her.
Under Trump, that bond was restored
sions. There are many external actors who would like to see our country torn apart. We shouldn’t make it so easy for them.
TONY GIAMETTA Oceanside
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
to historic strength. After years of Obama-era snubs and Biden-era appeasement, Trump re-centered U.S. foreign policy around moral clarity. He recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, moved our embassy, defunded those who sponsor terror, and walked away from the disastrous Iran deal that emboldened radicals and endangered peace.
tContrast that with the Biden administration, which too often treated Israel as a problem to be managed rather than an ally to be honored. From equivocation on Hamas to mixed messages in the wake of the attacks of Oct. 7, Biden’s team seemed more interested in global optics than in the survival of the Jewish state. Israel noticed. So did Iran.
bollah, Hamas and the Houthis. And it reminded both friends and foes that Israel is not a passive target — it is a moral force backed by strength, intelligence and resolve.
he world is a safer place today because Israel — and the United States — took action.
When Israel struck Iran’s air bases, enrichment facilities and command posts two weeks ago, it didn’t ask for permission — and it didn’t need to. It acted as a sovereign democracy under siege, doing what every nation has the right — and the obligation — to do: defend its people and pre-empt a greater catastrophe.
Let’s be clear about what this strike accomplished. It weakened Iran’s nuclear program. It disrupted the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ infrastructure. It sent shockwaves through Hez-
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
Now, step back. Look at the world.
In our own cities — New York, Los Angeles, Chicago — we see mobs marching not for peace, but for Hamas. We see antisemitism masquerading as activism, with chants of “Intifada!” echoing across college campuses. Our police officers are attacked in the name of “justice.” Biological reality is erased in the name of “equity.” Parental rights are trampled. Free speech is punished. Truth is exchanged for ideology.
What’s happening in Israel is a microcosm of what’s happening across the globe: a war between order and chaos, good and evil, light and darkness. And Israel just struck a powerful blow for good.
Those celebrating the regime in Tehran ought to remember that the Iranian people themselves have been its greatest victims. For nearly half a century they’ve suffered under clerics who rule through fear, censorship, torture and war. Perhaps this moment will accelerate the day when the people of Iran reclaim their history, dignity and freedom.
In the Middle East, nations like Saudi Arabia are watching closely — and many are quietly relieved. The Sunni Arab world has no interest in a nucleararmed Shiite theocracy destabilizing the region. Israel’s actions have made peace more plausible, not less. The Abraham Accords were only the beginning. There is more to come if courage prevails over cowardice.
I believe we are living in biblical times. We are watching prophecy and politics collide. And we must decide what side we are on.
I stand with Israel. I stand with America’s traditional values — faith, family, freedom. I stand with the parents fighting for their children, the citizens demanding security and the nations defending their existence.
To those who think this was just another strike, another regional flareup: wake up. This was a turning point. It was the moment the free world, through Israel’s hand, reminded evil that it does not get the final say.
To those marching in our streets, waving the flags of terror, threatening Jews and spitting on American ideals, I say this: your moral compass is broken. You are on the wrong side of history, and you will lose.
The world is safer today because Israel and the United States acted.
Ari Brown represents the 20th Assembly District.
Ari Brown
FrAmework by Tim Baker
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