Oceanside/Island Park Herald 07-16-2026

HERALD Oceanside/island park

Zoe Caponegro Oceanside High School teachers Zoe Caponegro, right, and Kimberly Rodrigues created an innovative board game project that challenged seniors to demonstrate their understanding of literature through hands-on collaborative learning.

Board games bring literature to life

By ABIGAIL GRIECO agrieco@liherald.com

When Oceanside High School English teacher Zoe Caponegro introduced an unconventional final project that asked seniors to create board games based on the literature they studied, she hoped it would keep students engaged through the final weeks of the school year.

She never expected the project would earn national recognition.

Caponegro detailed the lesson in an article published late last month by Edutopia, a nationally recognized education website that shares innovative teaching practices with K-12 educators. Since its publication, teachers across the country have expressed interest in bringing the project into their own classrooms, and Caponegro has been invited to appear on a game-based learning podcast later this month.

“We wanted this to be accessible to every teacher out there since it went so well,” she

said. “I thought that if I could publish our experiences, then more students can have this in their own classrooms.”

For Caponegro, 27, the Edutopia article marks the latest milestone in a career centered on creating meaningful learning experiences for students. A graduate of the College of the Holy Cross, where she earned a degree in English with a minor in education in 2017, she received a master’s degree in adolescent English education from the University at Buffalo in 2024. She has taught students in grades six through 12 and currently teaches ninth- and 12th-grade English at Oceanside High.

Caponegro’s inspiration for the project came last fall, while she was attending the New York State English Council conference in Albany. There she took part in a workshop focused on game-based learning, in which teachers explored using board games to reinforce classroom lessons.

While the presenter demonstrated teachercreated games, Caponegro began imagining something different. “I thought, what if the

StoryWalk is taking reading out into the sun

By ABIGAIL GRIECO agrieco@liherald.com

Leaders at the Oceanside Library are making books available beyond its walls, expressing hope that the newest literacy initiative will inspire families to read, explore and spend more time together outdoors.

After nearly nine months of planning and collaboration, library officials unveiled a permanent StoryWalk installation in Oceanside Park at 3800 Mahlon Brower Ave., marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 28.

Located near the playground, the self-guided experience allows families to read a children’s book one page at a time while walking along a designated path.

nerships with the Friends of the Oceanside Library and the Town of Hempstead Parks Department.

“A StoryWalk brings books beyond the page,” Chris Marra, the library’s director, said. “It combines reading, family engagement, lifelong learning and adventure, one step at a time.”

A StoryWalk brings books beyond the page. It combines reading, family engagement, lifelong learning and adventure, one step at a time.

ChRIs MARRA Oceanside Library director

The project was spearheaded by Sarah D’Amico, the library’s children’s outreach coordinator and youth services librarian, and made possible through part-

The idea was first introduced to D’Amico by two coworkers last September. From there, what staff jokingly referred to as “the baby” became a monthslong project that required research, fundraising and coordination with community partners.

“I kind of got a head start on the project,” D’Amico said. “I started communicating with our friends of the library, who graciously agreed to fund the project for us. We’re very grateful for that.” Before moving forward, D’Amico contacted libraries across the country that had COntinued On page 11

Courtesy

Senior living project advances

By ABIGAIL GRIECO agrieco@liherald.com

A long-planned senior living community is one step closer to becoming a reality after the $7.5 million sale of a development site on Atlantic Avenue in Oceanside was finalized, ending a process that began nearly nine years ago.

Sunrise Senior Living has acquired the 2.84-acre property at 374 Atlantic Ave., where it plans to build a three-story assisted living and memory care community with 84 residential units. The 77,400-square-foot facility is expected to help address the growing demand for senior housing on Long Island as the region’s population continues to age.

Construction is expected to begin following final pre-development work. The sale closes the book on a project that has been years in the making. Representatives for the buyer and seller signed a

purchase contract in 2017, anticipating a routine approval process. Instead, the development moved through years of municipal reviews, public hearings and entitlement proceedings before receiving the approvals needed to move forward. The timeline was further extended by the pandemic and related legal proceedings.

Lee & Associates NYC represented Sunrise Senior Living in the acquisition, while Strategic Realty Advisors represented the sellers, Grossman Nurseries and Breslin Development. Kelly Koukou, executive managing director and principal at Lee & Associates NYC, said the lengthy process required years of coordination and persistence.

“This transaction is a reminder that commercial real estate brokerage often requires much more than simply bringing a buyer and seller together,” Koukou said in a statement.

“Over the course of nearly nine years, we worked alongside our client through a complex entitlement process, changing market conditions and unforeseen challenges, while never losing sight of the end goal,” Koukou said.

“We’re proud to have helped Sunrise reach this important milestone, and we’re excited to see the project move from years of planning into development.”

When completed, the community will offer both assisted living and dedicated memory care servic-

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es for older adults who need varying levels of support. Developers say the project is intended to help meet the increasing demand for modern senior housing in Nassau County, where opportunities to build new facilities have become more limited.

“The need for modern senior living communities continues to grow as Long Island’s population ages,” Koukou said. “Development opportunities of this scale are increasingly rare, particularly in established communities where entitled land is scarce. We’re excited to see this project move from planning into development and ultimately serve seniors and their families for years to come.”

With the land sale complete, the project is expected to transition from years of planning into construction, bringing a new assisted living and memory care option to Oceanside residents and families.

News brief Islanders fans soon to make franchise history

The New York Islanders are giving fans the chance to make franchise history by designing the team’s official third jersey for the 2027-28 season. The club announced the launch of what it called the first fan-driven third jersey design contest in National Hockey League history, allowing supporters to submit original concepts that could become an official on-ice uniform.

Designers can also include notes explaining custom features or unique ideas they would like the Islanders to consider.

Submissions will be accepted through July 24.

After the submission period closes, a committee of Islanders representatives will review all entries and select five finalists. Those designs will be posted online for a public fan vote in early August.

The winning design will become the Islanders’ official third jersey for the 2027-28 season. The winning designer will also receive a teamsigned version of the jersey and tickets to a 2027-28 Islanders game to see the uniform make its on-ice debut.

—Jordan Vallone

Beginning immediately, fans can access a digital jersey design tool that includes the team’s historic logos and patches, official Islanders fonts and a wide selection of colors. The interactive platform uses a “paintby-number” format designed to ensure submissions comply with NHL jersey specifications while allowing participants to personalize their entries.

KELLy KOuKOu

Jones Beach Air Show soars for America’s 250th

By HUNTER FENOLLOL hfenollol@liherald.com

The roar of fighter jets echoed across Jones Beach last Sunday as thousands of spectators packed the shoreline for the FourLeaf Air Show, turning Long Island’s iconic beachfront into one of the nation’s largest celebrations of America’s 250th birthday.

Under sunny skies and summer heat, beachgoers filled the sand hours before the first aircraft took to the air, with parking fields filling early as families settled in for a full day of aerial demonstrations, patriotic displays and military flyovers.

The annual air show, paired this year with Saturday night’s fireworks spectacular, served as one of New York’s signature events commemorating the nation’s semiquincentennial.

Before the first planes launched overhead, attendees stood together during the National Anthem, many waving complimentary American flags distributed along the beach.

The day’s program opened with the U.S. Army Golden Knights parachute team descending onto the beachfront carrying the American flag before Farmingdale State College’s aviation program took to the skies.

Search-and-rescue demonstrations by the New York Air National Guard’s 106th Rescue Wing highlighted the capabilities of military rescue crews before international performers, including the United Arab Emirates’ Fursan Al Emarat demonstration team and Britain’s Royal Air Force Red Arrows, thrilled spectators with precision flying.

Historic aircraft from the American Airpower Museum also made appearances, connecting generations of aviation history during the patriotic weekend.

The Canadian Forces Snowbirds added another international flair with their trademark formation flying before the Golden Knights returned alongside the Red Devils parachute team.

Closing the nearly five-hour program were the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, whose

six F/A-18 Super Hornets streaked across the skies over Jones Beach in tight formations that stretched across the shoreline from one end of the beach to the other.

The demonstration team’s finale featured synchronized loops, high-speed passes and bursts of red, white and blue smoke that drew cheers from spectators lining the sand and boardwalk.

Beyond the performances overhead, the celebration extended throughout Jones Beach State Park. Vendors, informational exhibits and family activities lined the boardwalk, while visitors stopped to pose for photos with a giant “250” display recognizing the nation’s anniversary.

Saturday evening’s festivities had already drawn thousands for the annual Jones Beach fireworks display, which featured live entertainment, children’s activities and a patriotic soundtrack

before fireworks illuminated the Atlantic shoreline.

The FourLeaf Air Show had originally been scheduled as a twoday event, continuing Monday, but the second day was canceled because of inclement weather, making Sunday’s performance the weekend’s only air show. Even so, the combination of fireworks, military demonstrations and world-class aerobatic performances offered Long Islanders a fitting way to celebrate Independence Day during the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Tight formations at high speeds entertained thousands of spectators.

Golden Knights kicked off the air show waving the flag high.

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Attendees gazed at the planes as they soared above the ocean.

Blue Angels soared the skies at the FourLeaf Air Show.

Changes, reduced fees coming to Town staple News brief

By WESLEY SCHNELL Intern

Major renovations and improvements are coming to Lido Golf Club resulting in a decrease in greens fees, according to Town of Hempstead Supervisor John Ferretti.

Lido Golf Club is “one of the crown jewels of the Town of Hempstead” according to Ferretti, which is why the Hempstead Town Board will be implementing major upgrades to the course.

The first phase of the project will affect nine different holes throughout the course to improve playability, turf health and overall course conditions. “Temporary greens will be in effect on two of the nine holes, and shared greens will be in effect on the other seven,” Ferretti said at the Lido Golf Club last month. This allows for continuous play with no interruptions while the upgrades are completed.

“These improvements demonstrate our commitment to preserving and enhancing this remarkable course while keeping it affordable and accessible to the public,” Ferretti said.

Due to the potential disruption, greens fees will be reduced by 50 percent to encourage golfers to play the course during renovations. “We believe that when the course benefits, golfers should benefit as well,” said Ferretti.

Wesley Schnell/Herald Town Supervisor John Ferretti, center, presented a news conference with Town Clerk Kate Murray, left, and William Hawkins, the commissioner of parks and recreation.

The improvements will include an increase in the number of groundskeepers dedicated to maintaining the course. Pest control will be expanded to better protect the health of the grounds and there will be major irrigation system improvements to promote healthier greens and fairways.

“This is about preserving a beloved public asset and supporting recreation for years to come,” Ferretti said. “Our goal is simple: provide the best possible golf experience while keeping Lido Golf Course affordable, accessible and enjoyable. We appreciate all town golfers who will continue to golf here at Lido Golf.”

Taxation of The Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (MAPT)

Your writer has often stated that, in elder law, there is more misinformation than information. For example, one of the most pernicious myths about MAPTs is that they lose the stepped-up basis at death. Indeed, a syndicated columnist under the byline “Ask the Expert” recently wrote “...the IRS has determined that assets in an irrevocable trust don’t qualify for a step-up in tax basis at your death.”

For those unfamiliar with the step-up in basis, it works this way. Let’s say you bought your house many years ago for $200,000 and when you pass away it is worth $850,000. The basis gets stepped-up from what you paid to what it was worth on the date of your death. If the heirs sell it shortly after inheriting, they pay no capital gain tax. Savings would be about $200,000 in taxes!

In 2023, the IRS issued a widely misunderstood Revenue Ruling stating that a certain type of irrevocable trust did not get the stepped-up basis. In tax law, it is well understood that (1) if assets pass at death they are includible in the estate and get the stepped-up basis, and (2) if the assets are given away during your lifetime, they keep your original basis. You either get the tax break of the

stepped-up basis and inclusion in the estate OR you get the exclusion from the estate but no stepup. Some aggressive tax lawyers tried to write a trust that purported to get both -- inclusion for capital gains tax purposes but exclusion for estate tax purposes. The 2023 IRS ruling simply stated that you cannot have your cake and eat it too. If the taxpayer claims the irrevocable trust is excluded from the estate for estate tax purposes, then no step-up in basis will be allowed.

Seeing as the estate tax exemption for New York is $7.35 million, most clients are not concerned about inclusion for estate-tax purposes, they want the step-up! Every elder law attorney worth their salt knows this and drafts the MAPT as a “Grantor Trust” keeping the trust assets in the estate.

A very common way of doing this is to provide a “power of appointment” giving the grantor (creator of the trust) the right to change who they leave it to. This way the gift is “incomplete” until death, as which time the grantor can no longer change it. Since the gift is only “completed” at death, it is included in the estate and gets the stepup.

ETTINGER LAW FIRM

John Wachter of Oceanside and Alfonzo Ruocco of Island Park are just two of the South Shore veterans who will be honored when the American Airpower Museum and Honor Flight Long Island host a patriotic reunion on Aug. 1 in Farmingdale.

Honor flight reunion to honor veterans

Two South Shore veterans will be among 46 Long Island servicemen and women honored when the American Airpower Museum and Honor Flight Long Island host a patriotic reunion on Aug. 1 in Farmingdale.

Among those recognized will be John Wachter of Oceanside, who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War as a sergeant (E-5), and Alfonzo Ruocco of Island Park, who served in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War as a seaman. They will reunite with fellow veterans who participated in Honor Flight Long Island’s free trip to Washington, D.C., on May 2.

The reunion will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the American Airpower Museum’s Hangar 3. Veterans, their guardians and families will receive free admission, and the public may attend free from 10:30 a.m. until noon.

Honor Flight Long Island provides veterans with free one-day trips to the nation’s capital to visit the memorials dedicated to their military service. During the May 2 flight, the veterans toured the World War II Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, the Air Force Memorial, Navy Memorial and other historic sites. They returned to Long Island later that evening to a hero’s welcome from hundreds of family members, friends and supporters, accompanied by the Nassau County Firefighters Pipes and Drums Band.

Honor Flight Long Island President

Bill Jones said the trip included 41 Vietnam War veterans, many of whom never received a proper welcome home after returning from service, along with one World War II veteran and four Korean War veterans.

“What this flight really represented was a ‘big hug’ to all our veterans from Honor Flight, their families and supporters, who make such flights possible,” Jones said in a statement.

During the reunion, veterans will receive tribute journals featuring photographs from their Washington trip. The ceremony will also include remarks from Jones and American Airpower Museum President Jeff Clyman, a performance of the “Armed Forces Salute” by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla Band, and a performance of “Welcome Home, My Brother” by longtime Honor Flight guardian Eric Wieboldt of Merrick. Wieboldt wrote the song as a tribute to Vietnam veterans who did not receive the recognition they deserved when they returned home.

Free refreshments will be provided during the event. Honor Flight Long Island’s mission is to recognize veterans for their service and sacrifice by giving them the opportunity to visit the memorials built in their honor while sharing the experience with fellow veterans and loved ones.

— Abigail Grieco

Courtesy Mark Chamberlain

HERALD SPORTS

First rounders shine at Isles development camp

By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

Unlike 2025 when the New York Islanders selected three players within the first 17 picks of the NHL Draft, including eventual unanimous Calder Trophy winning defenseman Matthew Schaefer No. 1 overall, they had only one pick in the first three rounds this year.

That came at No. 13 overall when Schaefer, in Buffalo for draft weekend June 26-27, stepped to the podium to announce the selection of 6-foot-4, 203-pound left-shot defenseman Malte Gustafsson.

“I’m a big two-way defender, I like to contribute all over the ice,” said the 18-year-old Gustafsson, who played 27 games in the Swedish Hockey League with HV71. “I like to use my size, my length and I play physical. Being annoying is part of my game,” he added.

Gustafsson was one of 37 players at Islanders Development Camp June 29-July 2 and impressed in the Blue & White Scrimmage played before an overflow crowd July 1 at Northwell Health Ice Center in East Meadow.

Gustafsson signed a one-year contract to remain with HV71 for the 2026-27 season, but perhaps one day he’ll be teammates with fellow Swedes Simon Holmstrom, Emil Heineman and Victor Eklund.

The latter two became Islanders property during the early stages of the 2025 Draft when General Manager Mathieu Darche dealt defenseman Noah Dobson to Montreal. Heineman scored 22 goals in his debut season on Long Island, while Eklund, drafted 16th, and defenseman Kashawn Aitcheson, 17th, were nothing short of dynamic in the SHL and Ontario Hockey League, respectively.

Eklund is very much looking forward to playing a full season in North America, either with the Islanders or recently relocated Hamilton Hammers of the American Hockey League. The 19-year-old winger registered 6 goals and 18 assists in 43 games for Djurgardens IF in the SHL and made his way to the Bridgeport Islanders (10 points in nine games) and ultimately Long Island for his NHL debut April 14. He recorded his first NHL point, an assist, against Carolina.

“I think I made the right decision at the end of last season to come to North America and adapt as fast as I can,” Eklund said after the Blue & White Scrimmage. “Being here with the boys and playing in front of the fans is a lot of fun. Now I’m looking to get stronger, gain weight and be ready for camp in September.”

Aitcheson, who brings a rare combination of physicality and offensive sizzle, is ready for the next step as well after the 19-year-old earned the OHL’s Most Outstanding Defenseman award after posting 70 points (28 goals, 34 assists) during the regular season and 27 in the playoffs (8, 19) for the Barrie Colts, helping them to the finals.

“Just putting my head down and putting the work in,” Aitcheson said. “This is another step to get ready for training camp. It’s been fun so far.”

Nobody had more fun at the Blue & White Scrimmage than Gleb Veremyev, an undrafted 23-year-old 6-5, 218pound forward born in Brooklyn. He had a hat trick to lead Team Blue to a 6-3 victory and also scored the winner in a shootout that followed the 40-minute game.

“I’m trying to take everything in this summer, and I feel like I have something to prove for the rest of my career,” Veremyev said.

Kashawn Aitcheson, one of the Islanders’ three first-round picks in 2025 is ready for the next level after starring in the Ontario Hockey League.

Tony Bellissimo/Herald photos

Goaltender Sam Hillebrandt made a stop on Jesse Nurmi during development camp held June 29-July 2 at Northwell Health Ice Center in East Meadow.

Educators get creative with board game challenge

students were the ones creating the board games?” she recalled. “I think that would kind of elevate everything.”

She brought the idea to fellow English teacher Kimberly Rodrigues, who immediately embraced the concept. The two educators spent months designing lesson plans, grading rubrics, instructional materials and project guidelines before applying for an Oceanside Professional Learning Center grant.

Each received a $250 grant to purchase blank board game kits and classroom supplies. Caponegro credited Jason Manning, director of the learning center, with encouraging them to apply and helping them throughout the planning process. She also thanked English Department Director Francesca Wasserman and Diane Provido, the district’s superintendent for curriculum and instruction, for supporting the initiative.

The project officially began in April, and served as the culminating assignment for Caponegro’s and Rodrigues’s senior English classes. Rather than being assigned a traditional research paper or presentation, students worked in teams of four or five to design original board games inspired by the horror and dystopian literature they had studied throughout the year.

Each game required students to demonstrate mastery of literary concepts by incorporating setting, conflict, plot,

theme and character development into a playable game with rules, objectives and winning conditions.

Students began by analyzing several existing board games before brainstorming their own ideas. Then they divided responsibilities, illustrated the game boards, writing instruction manuals and developing gameplay or promotional materials.

The project, Caponegro said, emphasized collaboration while allowing students to showcase their talents.

“The skills it focuses on are synthesizing, analyzing, reading comprehension, higherlevel thinking and collaboration,” she said. “We made sure everyone had a hands-on learning experience, and we allowed for choice, where students could pick a task to create the project that they felt they were best at and enjoyed.”

dents in new ways. “Since we were doing it for the first time, we really didn’t have examples to show,” Caponegro said. “The students had to go off of their own minds as to how to fully create the board game and all the materials.”

The uncertainty, however, became part of the learning experience.

Because the assignment relied on teamwork, it proved effective for students with varying learning styles and abilities. Caponegro has students with individualized education programs and other learning needs, and Rodrigues teaches many English language learners, which made accessibility a priority throughout the planning process.

The assignment also challenged stu-

Students eventually produced short commercials promoting their games. Throughout the process, they practiced collaboration, critical thinking, communication and problem-solving while applying literary analysis in a creative format.

The response exceeded Caponegro’s expectations. Students described the project as unique, engaging and creative, and many said they felt a sense of ownership of their work.

One comment in particular has stayed with her. “I just wanted to come to school to do this,” one student told her.

That was exactly what Caponegro had hoped to accomplish. “I wanted this to be something kids wanted to come to class to do,” she said. “I wanted something they could leave high school and say, ‘I created something. That’s my work, and I’m proud of it.’”

The experience also reinforced her

own philosophy about teaching. “I’ve learned that by achieving a balance between analog and more modern learning experiences, we can hit all the skills necessary for students to succeed,” she said.

Seeing students fully invested in the assignment became the most rewarding part of the project. “There are so many ways to support students and give them memorable activities,” she said. “Education can be both meaningful and stimulating at the same time.”

Caponegro and Rodrigues plan to continue the project next school year and incorporate additional peer-review opportunities — and Caponegro hopes its impact extends well beyond Oceanside.

Since the article appeared on Edutopia, educators from around the country have commented on how they plan to adapt the lesson for their own students. The project’s flexibility, Caponegro said, makes it suitable for a wide range of grade levels and subject areas.

For her, that’s the greatest reward of all. “The best part about this is it is versatile,” she said. “It can be applicable to a wide range of students, grades and subjects.”

What began as an effort to make senior English more engaging has grown into a teaching strategy that is inspiring educators nationwide — proof that a creative classroom idea can have an impact far beyond where it first came to life.

Zoe Caponegro

July 16,

ClearVote system set for November election

By MELISSA BERMAN mberman@liherald.com

The new voting machines Nassau County residents will use in November are designed to make casting a ballot faster while keeping the voting experience largely unchanged, according to election officials and the machines’ manufacturer.

Voters heading to the polls this fall will use an allnew voting system, after the county Board of Elections selected Clear Ballot’s ClearVote system following a competitive procurement process.

The system will replace the county’s traditional voting equipment, and Nassau will join more than a dozen New York counties that have already adopted ClearVote’s paper-ballot technology.

Although the machines are new, election officials said that voters should notice very little difference in how they cast their ballots. “To the public it will be pretty much the same as they’re used to,” Republican Elections Commissioner James V. Moriarty wrote in a news release. “These machines will be smaller, more efficient and new. New and better equipment.”

The ClearVote system uses full-sized paper ballots that voters fill out by hand or, for those requiring accessibility accommodations, through an ADA-compliant ballot-marking device that prints a full-sized ballot. Every voter ultimately casts the same type of paper ballot, regardless of how it is marked.

The biggest improvements, Democratic Elections Commissioner James Scheuerman explained, will take place behind the scenes, allowing election workers to administer elections more efficiently while preserving the familiar voting experience.

“It’s easier for us to build and run the election and it’s going to be the exact same for the voter, which is

what you’re looking for when you’re bringing on a new voting system,” Scheuerman wrote in a news release.

Once a ballot is filled out, it is inserted into a scanner that reads and records the vote while securely storing the ballot for auditing and recount purposes. Unlike some voting systems that rely on barcodes or summary cards, ClearVote records votes directly from the paper ballots, giving voters the chance to visually verify every selection before casting it.

According to Clear Ballot CEO Bob Hoyt, that transparency is central to the company’s philosophy.

“We believe the best way to establish voter trust is through paper ballots,” Hoyt said. “It allows people to verify their own vote before it’s cast so they know that it counted.”

The new scanners also process ballots significantly faster than older equipment. A ballot, Hoyt said, is scanned and accepted almost immediately after it is inserted — about one second — compared with four to five seconds on many older voting systems.

As soon as the ballot is processed, the screen confirms that the vote has been successfully cast and displays a running ballot count. “It processes the ballot almost immediately,” Hoyt said. “You get a message on the screen that your ballot has been cast, and you can actually see the ballot count increase.”

Clear Ballot first came to New York in 2017, providing high-speed scanners for absentee and mail-in ballots and conducting independent post-election audits. The company introduced its first in-person voting system in the state in 2023. Nationally, its election technology is used in 14 states, serving more than 46 million registered voters.

Preparing Nassau County for the transition has been a months-long process. Roughly 500 voting machines have already been delivered for testing and poll worker training, with the remaining equipment — roughly 12 trailer loads — scheduled to arrive beginning later this month.

The company is also implementing a learning-management system that will help Nassau comply with New York’s mandatory poll worker training requirements by documenting training and providing ondemand instructional materials.

“If you train the election workers really well, and you have good equipment and good people servicing it,” Hoyt said, “you’ll probably have a really good election.”

Long Beach oral surgeon recognized best in state

or Dr. Steven Sutter, oral surgery is about far more than extracting teeth or placing dental implants. As founder of Ocean Implants in Long Beach, Dr. Sutter has built his practice around easing patients’ fears while delivering advanced oral surgery and implant care with a calm, personalized approach.

A Long Island native, Dr. Sutter took an unconventional path into dentistry. Originally a mathematics major, he discovered his passion for oral surgery after shadowing his uncle, a retired oral surgeon in Chicago.

“I went in to work with him every day and I loved it,” Sutter said.

He returned to complete the science prerequisites before earning his dental degree and completing his residency in Buffalo, where he met his wife, Dr. Erica Sutter, a board-certified pediatric dentist.

Dr. Sutter opened his Long Beach practice in 2012, only months before Hurricane Sandy devastated the community. While his office escaped major damage, the storm slowed business during its critical first year. Through perseverance and strong relationships with local dentists and residents, Ocean Implants steadily grew into a trusted referral practice. Today, Sutter performs wisdom tooth

extractions, complex dental extractions, dental implants and sedation dentistry. He believes technical skill is only part of successful patient care.

“People will tell you, usually immediately, what their concern is, and everyone has a different concern,” Sutter said. “Listening to my patients is just the beginning.”

Many patients arrive carrying anxiety from previous dental experiences. Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, Dr.

Sutter tailors each visit to the individual. Whether someone fears needles, dental drills or something else during treatment, he focuses on understanding those concerns before beginning any procedure.

“I focus on alleviating what their anxiety is,” he said

Dr. Sutter also credits the close-knit team at Ocean Implants for helping create a welcoming experience. His practice operates with a small staff that emphasizes personal attention, with three front

office team members sharing scheduling, insurance and patient communication responsibilities, while his full-time surgical assistant works alongside him every day, assisting during procedures and ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.

“We are a team here in our office,” he said.

That patient-centered philosophy has also earned Dr. Sutter national recognition. He has been selected for inclusion in the Nationwide Registries Top Doctors of America Honored Edition 2026, which will be published in 2027. The recognition honors one specialist from each state based on professional accomplishments, peer reputation and patient reviews.

Dr. Sutter encourages patients to prioritize preventive care through consistent brushing and flossing while avoiding sugary drinks before bedtime. He notes that advances in digital imaging have dramatically reduced radiation exposure and modern implant technology offers more affordable, flexible options than many patients realize.

202 W. Park Ave., Long Beach, NY 11561 Phone: 516-442-7722 Fax: 516-442-7720

Courtesy Clear Ballot Group

Nassau County voters will be using the new ClearVote voting system in the November election.

These two moms opened a spa. It had one big, on

Mery and Sindy always knew they wanted to open a spa to bring beauty to customers. Little did they know it would have the same effect on the community. And Business First was there. We provided $23,000 in grants to help with much-needed renovations so Mery and Sindy could bring their vision to life.* Now, not only does their spa impact clients in a beautiful way, it gives the community an economic lift as well.

*Incentives, grants, and savings will vary with every project.

Learn more about how we’re helping communities thrive.

psegliny.com/revitalization

Mery Seminario and Sindy Catalan, ISSI Beauty Spa, Port Washington

Families packed into Eisenhower Park to honor America’s semiquincentennial during Nassau County’s annual

Nassau County celebrates Independence Day

Thousands of residents gathered at Eisenhower Park on July 2 for Nassau County’s annual Celebrate America Fireworks & Drone Show, kicking off Independence Day festivities and commemorating America’s 250th anniversary. Families and friends filled Parking Field No. 6 with lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy an evening of patriotic entertainment, including live performances by Glenn Strange, Chicken Head and Let Freedom Rock. The free celebration concluded with a fireworks and drone show that lit up the night sky in honor of the nation’s semiquincentennial. The event was presented by Nassau County and TD Bank and drew crowds from across Long Island for an evening of music, community and patriotic pride.

–Jordan Vallone

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Celebrate America Fireworks & Drone Show.

Patriotic colors were on display around the Harry Chapin Lakeside Threate. Lisa Marie, of Staten Island, with Walter Canteel, of Floral Park.

Riley Tran, 7, Melorin Gelaskani, 7, Mia Keating, 7, and Penlope Pipitone, 7, friends from Levittown, enjoyed the festivities.

Following a variety of musical performances, fireworks illuminated the park.

Debra Toscano, of East Meadow, performed ‘The Star Spangled Banner.’

Ribbon-cutting ceremony held to unveil StoryWalk

already installed a StoryWalk to learn what types of displays held up best outdoors and what recommendations they had for long-term maintenance.

After receiving final approval in March, administrators at the Oceanside Library ordered the materials, and the Town of Hempstead Parks Department installed the weatherproof metal display frames in June.

The permanent installation features a series of large metal frames placed about six feet apart along a walking route that begins near the playground. Each frame displays a single page from a children’s book, encouraging visitors to continue walking as they read the story panel by panel.

Town officials helped determine the layout, so the story naturally guides families through the park before ending near the playground entrance.

“They decided the best layout would leave families right at the entrance to the playground,” D’Amico said. “Parents can then follow the story, and it leads them right there.”

“Maisy Goes to the Library” by Lucy Cousins was selected as the debut story for the StoryWalk — chosen for its colorful illustrations, familiar character and page count that fit the installation’s display frames.

“I thought it was a really bright book,” D’Amico said. “It’s very simple, it’s a rec-

ognizable character to draw people in, and it had the perfect amount of pages. It was a great book to choose for the first StoryWalk.”

The StoryWalk is designed to change throughout the year, with D’Amico planning to rotate books seasonally. The next story is expected to be installed in September.

“I’m hoping to find a really cute story that ties into the fall season,” she said.

Marra said the installation reflects the library’s goal of extending its services beyond its physical building and meeting families where they already gather.

“It brings the library outside,” she

said. “It shows the community we’re more than just a building. Families who maybe haven’t visited the library yet can see us at the park and think, ‘Let me go check it out.’”

Although the ribbon-cutting took place on a hot summer day, families enthusiastically explored the StoryWalk, reading each panel together as they strolled through the park.

One memorable guest was the turtle Booker, the library’s children’s room mascot — who made an appearance during the celebration and even met a real turtle in the park.

“It was very cute,” D’Amico said.

For library staff, the project represents more than a creative way to read a book, encouraging literacy while promoting exercise, outdoor recreation and family interaction.

Reading outdoors creates a different experience than sitting inside with a book, Marra said, allowing children to discover each page while moving throughout the park.

“It’s literally one step at a time,” she said. “You get to see what happens next.”

D’Amico expressed belief that the growing popularity of a StoryWalk reflects families’ renewed interest in spending time together outdoors.

“I’ve noticed over the last five or six years that there’s been a huge increase in outdoor activity,” she said. “Parents are looking for ways to get out of the house and for kids to have a good time, and I think StoryWalks really fit into that.”

The installation also serves as a gateway to many of the library’s other family programs. Staff members encourage visitors who enjoy the StoryWalk to participate in the library’s annual summer reading program, the “1,000 Books Before Kindergarten” challenge, for young children, and the “500 Books Before Middle School” program for older readers.

“We are here for the community,” Marra said. “Whether it’s on or off-site, we hope everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the StoryWalk and then visit the library, too.”

Courtesy Oceanside Library

Leaders of the Oceanside Library held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 28, officially unveiling a permanent StoryWalk installation in Oceanside Park.

FREE community event focused on health, wellness, and lifestyle

Meet trusted local exhibitors and service providers

Take advantage of on-site health screenings

Enjoy lively entertainment, fitness demonstrations and interactive experiences

Hear from experts during a panel discussion with Q&A

Win raffles, prizes, and giveaways

Snack station for all

*Boxed lunches for first 150 attendees

All designed to help you stay active, informed, and engaged at every stage of life.

MAE CAIME FOUNDER, AMAEZING MIDLIFE & BEYOND AGENDA:

Register for this FREE event: Merrick.eventbrite.com or email rbamgbose@liherald.com or call 516.569.4000 x273

STEPPING OUT

Wild Child

Jazz is in the air

By Karen Bloom

Tilles Jazz Fest is going strong in its third season.

The festival returns to the historic LIU Post campus, on Saturday, offering a full day of world-class jazz, family-friendly fun and community celebration across four stages.

Presented in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center, this year’s edition again brings together legendary artists and rising stars. This is an immersive indoor/outdoor experience — from lawn picnics and second line parades during the day to headliner The Buena Vista Orchestra performing in the evening.

The day’s lineup includes the Bobby Sanabria Octet, the Grammy-nominated percussionist blends Afro-Cuban jazz with big band flair; Bluesy Beats and Jazzy Treats with Dan and Claudia Zanes, with a lively, family-friendly set of jazz rhythms; young vocalist Ruby Laks, a fresh, expressive voice in contemporary jazz; along with a swinging Second-Line Parade, led by Hot Jazz All-Stars, including up-and-coming trumpeter Bria Skonberg, when all artists and the audience are invited to join in.

As Tom Dunn, Tilles Center’s executive and artistic director puts it: “This festival captures the spirit of jazz, where iconic voices and emerging artists share the stage. It’s an energizing celebration of artistry, innovation, and community, set in a place that inspires creativity at every turn.”

The LIU Jazz Combo (current LIU students) and Long Island Rising Stars (LIU alumni and regional talent) welcome guests at festival entrances from 12:15 p.m. Members of the LIU Marching Band add energy to the New Orleans-style Second Line parade, closing the daytime festivities at 5:45 p.m.

The young superstars of tomorrow are certainly given their due, alongside the jazz greats. Of course, headliner, The Buena Vista Orchestra, surely deserves the spotlight. The orchestra (sometimes referred to as The Buena Vista Social Orchestra, Orquesta Buena Vista) is acclaimed as the world’s foremost Cuban music repertory ensemble — featuring a revolving lineup. Virtuoso Cuban violinist Rolando Morejón Reyes leads an exciting set of musicians pulled from The Buena Vista Social Club, AfroCuban All Stars, the bands of Celia Cruz, Omara Portuondo, Chucho Valdés, Willie Colón, and others.

To date, The Buena Vista Orchestra and related projects have toured the world and garnered global accolades, making it one of the biggest-selling and best known Cuban music projects in history.

On a more intimate scale are Dan and Claudia

Feel that beat

Zanes, who are delighted to bring what Dan Zanes described as their “community music” to this year’s festival audience.

“It was an exiting call to get,” he says, of the invite. He notes that while they’ve performed at Tilles before, their festival appearance allows the Zanes to show a different side of their musicianship.

• July 18, starting at noon

• Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100

• LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville

This is not a typical tribute or pretend concert act. Wild Child relies on recapturing the original: sound, feel, mood, dynamics and delivery of the Doors music. It’s about the music and its delivery. Wild Child lead singer Dave Brock’s Doors concert tribute debuted with a triple sellout at the Whisky a-Go-Go. Since then the act has been touring and playing at sold out national act venues and festivals around the world. Wild Child became the mold that “tribute bands” aspired to become, as they flooded the market with good and bad impersonations of famous artists. In 2010 Ray Manzarek and Robby Krieger of The Doors, invited Dave to tour with them as their vocalist on their concert engagements: a hug honorl Wild Child performances are praised as the closest thing to a real live Doors experience.

Friday, July 17, 8 p.m. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny. com.

“I come from the folk and rock ‘n roll world, but Claudia, my wife and partner in all this, is a jazz singer. She was performing and touring as a jazz vocalist before I met her. And Tyree Austin who’s also going to be singing with us is also a jazz vocalist. He sings jazz and gospel. So the spirit of jazz is really in what we do.”

partner in performing and

Zanes, a Grammy-winner, occupies a unique place in American music — where sea shanties, English Music hall, play party songs, the spirit of early rock ‘n roll, soul, North American and West Indian folk music collide. For the past 20 years, he has toured the world with his band, Dan Zanes and Friends, sharing 21st century social music with enthusiastic crowds of all ages.

In the 1980s Zanes was a member of The Del Fuegos, the roots rock band that released several albums and toured heavily before spontaneously combusting in 1989. In 1994 he became a father and began trying to create music that he and his daughter could enjoy together as a shared experience — an updated version of the Folkways records he grew up on. In 2000, he released Rocket Ship Beach, which became an immediate hit with families in America. NPR called him “The Gold Standard in kid’s music.”

And while their music does have a certain kid-friendly appeal, Zanes is quick to point out that there’s much more to it than that. The Zanes prefer not to be categorized as “children’s entertainers.”

“Our music is social music. It’s very participatory. We come out of a lot of different folk traditions: North American folk traditions, blues, as well as Haitian folk traditions {influenced by Claudia who is Haitian-American). It’s for all ages, including young folks but also older.

“At our concerts there’s quite a bit of singing along. It’s a social experiment. Even though we’re a modern group we work with ancient traditions and one of those traditions is galvanizing people with song. There’s movement, there’s dancing. Three voices and a 12 string guitar is the foundation of what we do, with addition of trombone, horn and some percussion.”

He describes their sound as “joyful music.”

“These are hard times for a lot of people and music reminds us that there is so much beauty in the world and so much that we get from being with each other. There’s something about singing together that gives all a sense of life’s best possibilities. Behind it all is joy always.”

Guests are encouraged to come with lawn chairs and blankets for a day of relaxed listening and discovery. Youngsters will also enjoy the Kids Zone, with an instrument “petting zoo,” crafts and face painting. When everyone is ready for a bite, check out the food trucks and artisan purveyors with their tempting wares. Or bring your own picnic!

Derek Hough Symphony of Dance: Encore

Following sold-out successes of his previous tours, Derek Hough is back. The Emmy-winning dancerchoreographer-entertainer — known for his dazzling performances on “Dancing With The Stars” — takes his audience on an exhilarating journey through dance with breathtaking choreography, vibrant visuals and his signature stage presence. The high-energy production celebrates the artistry and emotion of movement while showcasing the versatility that has made Hough one of today’s most celebrated performers. Experience a thrilling fusion of dance and music; the fan-favorite dancer explores styles ranging from ballroom, tap, salsa, hip-hop and everything in between.

Sunday, July 19, 8 p.m. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter. org or (516) 299-3100. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville.

Courtesy Anna Zanes Dan Zanes

Courtesy Tilles Center Bobby Sanabria

Courtesy Andrea Escobar

The Buena Vista Orchestra

Courtesy Mark Mann Claudia Zanes

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

JUL 16

Island Park Village Board meets

The Village Board of Trustees holds their next meeting. All are welcom.

• Where: 127 Long Beach Road, Island Park

• Time: 7 p.m.

JULY

17

‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’

The Madison Theatre’s production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” brings the beloved Andrew Lloyd Webber musical to the stage, retelling the biblical story of Joseph, his colorful coat and his rise from slavery to Pharaoh’s trusted advisor. Told entirely through song, the family-friendly production features memorable numbers including “Any Dream Will Do,” “Close Every Door” and “One More Angel in Heaven,” blending musical styles from calypso to country-western. Suitable for audiences of all ages, the show continues to be one of the world’s most frequently performed musicals.

• Where: Madison Theatre, Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre

• Time: Various dates and times, through Aug. 2

• Contact: madisontheatreny. org or (516) 323-4444

Happy Birthday, Franklin!

Long Island Children’s Museum invites families to celebrate the Eastern Box Turtle’s 50th Birthday! Make him a one-of-akind cake craft inspired by all his favorite things! Come help honor 50 turtle-tastic years at the dropin program. For ages 3+.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: 1-3 p.m.

• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

JUL

18

Nassau County Parade/ America’s 250th Birthday Come celebrate with the Oceanside Fire Department. With a parade, fireworks, concerts, food and drinks!

• Where: Fireman’s Field, 88 Mott St., Oceanside

• Time: 2 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 766-2717

A Celebration of the Mighty Zep

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; also July 22

• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

JUL

21

Plot Twist: A True Crime Club

Fascinated with all things true crime?

Whether you’re a seasoned armchair detective or just beginning your journey into the genre, this club at Oceanside Library offers a welcoming space to engage, discuss, and unravel the mysteries that captivate us all. Join us for riveting conversations, intriguing insights, and a deeper understanding of the darker side of human nature. Register in advance to receive a “case file” ahead of the meeting; walk-ins are always welcome!

• Where: 30 Davison Ave., Oceanside

• Time: 7-8 p.m.

• Contact: oceansidelibrary.com or (516) 766-2360

Summer sounds

TOH brings its summer concert series Fireman’s Field. It’ll be “One Wild Night” before everyone goes their “Separate Ways” when BonJourney performs, with a parade.

• Where: Fireman’s Field, Oceanside

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 292-9000 ext. 7255

Country grooves Eisenhower Park’s Summer Concert Series welcomes Simply Stapleton for a Chris Stapleton tribute.

• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow

• Time: 6 p.m.

• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov or (516) 572-0200

Magic in the Making

Old Westbury Gardens welcomes young witches, wizards, and magical makers to special afterhours evening in the gardens. Families are invited enjoy an evening of creativity and a little bit of magic. Activities include Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects exhibit, I LUG NY Challenge Zone, LEGO-free-play area, “My Own Creation” build contest,

craft stations and spell-bound sports. Dress as your favorite wizard, witch or whimsical character! $34 general admission, $24 child, with member discounts. Registration required.

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: 5-8 p.m.

• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048

Summertime vibes

Cover City Soundtrack takes over the Jones Beach Bandshell for a free, all - ages night of pop - punk anthems, emo nostalgia, and shoreline summer energy. Parents can relive their Warped Tour days while kids discover why this music still hits hard. Expect jump - worthy pop - punk, heart - tugging emo classics, and the kind of electric beach - night vibe only Jones Beach delivers. From toddlers to teens to full - grown elder emos, everyone can dance, laugh, and sing along. Bring your crew, your kids, your nostalgia, and your energy.

• Where: Jones Beach Boardwalk Bandshell, Field 4, 2400 Ocean Parkway, Wantagh

• Time: 8-10 p.m.

• Contact: CoverCitySoundtrack. com

• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington

• Time: 8 p.m.; also July 25

Led Zeppelin fans, rejoice! Get The Led Out returns to the Paramount with “A Celebration of the Mighty Zep,” two electrifying nights of classic rock, running through June 28. From the bombastic and epic, to the folky and mystical, GTLO has captured the essence of Led Zeppelin and brought their music to the concert stage. The Philadelphia-based group consists of six veteran musicians, intent on delivering Led Zeppelin live, like you’ve never heard before! Utilizing the multi-instrumentalists at their disposal, GTLO re-creates songs, in all their depth and glory, with the studio overdubs that Zeppelin themselves never performed. 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. When an album calls for three guitars, GTLO brings three guitarists to the stage — no shortcuts, no gimmicks. 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.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

JUL

19

Rockin’ on Eisenhower Park’s Summer Concert Series continues with a double bill of Last Exit with a Pearl Jam tribute and Foo For All with Foo Fighters tunes.

• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow

• Time: 6 p.m.

• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov or (516) 572-0200

Family theater

Lance the Eagle welcomes families to “A Semi-QuincentenEAGLE Birthday” on the Long Island Children’s Museum stage. In this original production, families are invited to celebrate his birthday. His message: As the national bird, this party will be happening throughout the whole month of July. Come to think of it, I did hear something about a birthday for the United States of America as well. Hmm... must be a coincidence! I’ll be throwing a parade through LICM’s galleries and a celebratory spectacle in the Theater. Come ready to party!” Keep an eye out 30 minutes before each show for a special interactive pre-show! For ages 3+. $5 with museum admission ($4 members), $10 theater only.

JULY

22

Paint at Masone Beach

Join with Frank Caprino for a painting session at the beach.

• Where: Masone Beach, 1 Waterford Road, Island Park

• Time: 6:30 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 431-0600

JUL 24

Tunes with County Line

Dine at EGP Land & Sea and groove to County Line. Long Island-based County Line is known for their mix of country, classic, and southern rock, led by Jim Vafeas and Craig Pace.

• Where: 2 Pettit Place, Island Park

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 544-2879

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.

Turn the page on summer with the library

By ABIGAIL GRIECO agrieco@liherald.com

As summer approaches, many readers are searching for the perfect book to bring to the beach, pool or backyard hammock. Staff members at the Oceanside Library have put together a list of recommended titles spanning literary fiction, historical fiction and heartfelt coming-of-age stories, offering something for nearly every kind of reader this season.

“The Great Wherever” by Shannon Sanders

Among the library’s top picks is “The Great Wherever” by Shannon Sanders, a moving collection of interconnected stories that explores family relationships, identity and the search for belonging. Set largely in the American South, the book follows characters navigating love, grief and personal growth while remaining tied together through shared experiences. Sanders’ lyrical writing style and emotionally rich storytelling make the novel a thoughtful and engaging summer read.

“Yesteryear” by Caro Claire Burke

For readers who enjoy time travel and romance, “Yesteryear” by Caro Claire Burke offers a fresh twist on historical fiction. The novel follows a modern-day Black woman who suddenly finds herself transported back to the 1800s, where she must navigate the challenges and realities of the past while trying to find her way home. The story blends romance, history and social commentary, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers turning pages while reflecting on themes of identity and resilience.

members at the Oceanside Library have put together a list of recommended titles spanning different genres offering something for nearly every kind of reader this season.

“The Calamity Club” by Kathryn Stockett

Another anticipated title on the library’s list is “The Calamity Club” by Kathryn Stockett. Known for her bestselling novel “The Help,” Stockett returns with a story centered on an eccentric group of Southern women who form an unlikely bond amid personal struggles and community drama. Filled with humor, heart and richly developed characters, the novel captures the complicated dynamics of friendship and family while offering moments of both laughter and reflection.

“Daughters of the Sun and Moon” by Lisa See Historical fiction fans may also enjoy “Daughters of the Sun and Moon” by Lisa See. The novel transports

readers into the lives of women navigating tradition, sacrifice and survival across generations. Known for her detailed research and vivid storytelling, See weaves together cultural history and emotional depth to create a story that highlights the strength of women and the importance of family connections. The richly layered narrative offers readers an immersive escape perfect for long summer afternoons.

“Cool Machine” by Coleson Whitehead

Rounding out the list is “Cool Machine” by Coleson Whitehead, scheduled for release on July 21. The highly anticipated novel from the Pulitzer Prize-winning author explores themes of technology, power and human ambition through Whitehead’s signature blend of sharp social commentary and imaginative storytelling. While details about the plot remain limited ahead of publication, early buzz surrounding the book has already made it one of the most talked-about releases of the summer season.

Library staff encourage residents to explore new genres and authors throughout the summer months while taking advantage of the library’s wide selection of books, audiobooks and digital resources. Whether readers are looking for emotional family dramas, sweeping historical fiction or thought-provoking contemporary stories, this year’s recommendations offer plenty of opportunities to discover a new favorite book.

The Oceanside Library’s summer reading selections are available for checkout throughout the season, with additional recommendations expected to be featured during upcoming summer programming and reading events.

Herald file

Staff

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO.

62-2026

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 on the 7th day of July 2026, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 62-2026, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 62-2026, to amend Section 197-5 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include “ARTERIAL STOPS” at various locations.

Dated: July 7, 2026

Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

JOHN FERRETTI

Supervisor

KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 161225

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO.

65-2026

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 7th day of July 2026, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 65-2026, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Local Law No. 65-2026, to amend Section 192-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead by the addition of a location into subdivisions “A” and “W” thereof, in relation to gross weight restrictions upon commercial vehicles using certain town highways in Baldwin and Oceanside.

Dated: July 7, 2026

Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF

HEMPSTEAD

JOHN FERRETTI

Supervisor

KATE MURRAY

Town Clerk 161228

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

LOCAL LAW NO. 61-2026

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 on the 7th day of July 2026, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 61-2026, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 61-2026, to amend Section 202-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include and repeal “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at various locations.

Dated: July 7, 2026

Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

JOHN FERRETTI

Supervisor

KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 161224

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK

INDEX NO. 622198/2024 COUNTY OF NASSAU

FEDERAL HOME LOAN MORTGAGE CORPORATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR FREDDIE MAC SEASONED CREDIT RISK TRANSFER TRUST, SERIES 2017-2, AS OWNER OF THE RELATED MORTGAGE LOAN

Plaintiff, vs. BENJAMIN MINELLI, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF BIAGIO MINELLI; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF BIAGIO MINELLI any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally

described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; LONG ISLAND INVESTMENTS LLC; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE-DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY,

“JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, Defendants.

Plaintiff designates NASSAU as the place of trial situs of the real property

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS

Mortgaged Premises: 30 TRUXTON ROAD

A/K/A 32 TRUXTON ROAD, ISLAND PARK, NY 11558

Section: 43, Block: 027, Lot: 24-26 and 222

To the above named Defendants YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other

than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you.

NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT

THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $285,750.00 and interest, recorded on January 23, 2006, in Liber M 29999 at Page 753, of the Public Records of NASSAU County, New York, covering premises known as 30 TRUXTON ROAD A/K/A 32 TRUXTON ROAD, ISLAND PARK, NY 11558.

The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.

NASSAU County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county.

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME

If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING

MSSN launches inpatient hospice care partnership

By ABIGAIL GRIECO agrieco@liherald.com

Mount Sinai South Nassau has expanded its continuum of care services by launching an inpatient hospice program through a new clinical partnership with MJHS Hospice and Palliative Care, providing specialized end-of-life care for patients whose needs cannot be met at home.

The hospital announced that the new service will offer around-the-clock hospice care for patients facing life-limiting illnesses, while also providing support for their families during one of life’s most difficult transitions.

We are grateful to partner with a respected health care provider such as MJHS Health System to provide this most essential, compassionate end-oflife care and support to patients and their families who need it,” said Dr. Adhi Sharma, president of Mount Sinai South Nassau. “The service is a reflection of each organization’s mission and values to bring the highest-quality continuum of care to the communities we serve.”

The program combines the expertise of Mount Sinai South Nassau’s clinical staff with MJHS Hospice’s specialized team of hospice professionals. Care will be provided by an interdisciplinary group that includes physicians certified in hospice and palliative medicine, skilled hospice nurses, social workers, chaplains, creative arts therapists and grief counselors.

Hospice care focuses on comfort rather than curative treatment, helping patients manage symptoms such as pain while emphasizing quality of life. Although many hospice patients receive services in their homes, some require a higher level of care that can only be provided in a hospital setting.

“As a mission-driven provider of endof-life care, we are honored to partner with Mount Sinai South Nassau on bringing compassionate hospice care into their flagship hospital on Long Island,” said Laurie Chichester, chief operating officer of MJHS Hospice and Palliative Care.

Chichester said the program is centered on comfort, dignity and respect, with care guided by each patient’s values and wishes. She added that the partnership allows families to spend meaningful time together while receiving support from clinical, emotional, psy -

Mount Sinai South Nassau has expanded its continuum of care services by launching an inpatient hospice program through a new clinical partnership with MJHS Hospice and Palliative Care, providing specialized end-of-life care for patients whose needs cannot be met at home.

chosocial and spiritual care experts.

In addition to caring for patients, the program includes bereavement services for families for up to 13 months following a loved one’s death.

Hospice patients will receive care in private rooms designed to offer the comfort and amenities of home, according to hospital officials. Family members will be able to remain with loved ones, including overnight, creating a more supportive environment during end-oflife care.

“As it is with all we do, this service is built on the premise that Mount Sinai South Nassau exists to provide our patients and residents of the communities we serve with the health care they need, when they need it, and even at end of life,” said Dr. Alan Wong, the hospital’s chief medical officer and senior vice president of medical affairs.

Dr. Brigit Palathra, chief of palliative care at Mount Sinai South Nassau, said the program’s primary goal is to ensure patients and families have access to compassionate, patient-centered care during the final stages of life.

“The number one focus of this service is to ensure that our patients and their families have access to the patientcentered, dignified end-of-life care they deserve,” Palathra said. “I am certain this collaborative effort will fulfill that promise.”

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FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

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What to do about cracking concrete, Part 2

Q. We have large cracks in our concrete driveway and garage floor, and want to make sure they are repaired correctly, since they appear to be recently done, possibly within a year before we purchased the house. In particular, there is a nearly round hole that turned to gravel, kind of, and we want to know why it happened and avoid having it happen again. What can you tell us?

A. As I previously explained, concrete reacts to extreme weather changes, and isn’t as stable as people think. Nature moves mountains, so your driveway was no challenge to the forces of nature. Extreme cold causes concrete to contract — push in on itself — while heat has the effect of stretching rigid concrete to the point of literally ripping apart.

As with any material, water and movement are the most critical factors to work with. You’ll never win over nature. The hole is basically like a zit, a buildup of pressure in a weaker place across the surface. Concrete develops strength as a chemical reaction to the specific combination of materials it is made from. With too much water in the mix, it will be weaker, especially in a particular spot. With not enough water to support the chemical reaction of Portland cement, sand and stone, the concrete will be weak. It’s important to follow the directions on the package(s) to get the correct mix.

Like any successful repair or construction project, analysis and planning are extremely important. You should have a professional take a look at the problem before you repair it, to decide if a repair is even worth it. A short consult more than pays for itself if it turns out you’d be wasting money on something that isn’t worth a quick fix. If that round hole reveals that there’s no steel reinforcement, for example, then the rest of the driveway is on its way to needing more serious work in the near future. If the hole reveals that the mix was too wet or too dry, or was poured in weather that was too cold, or that admixtures were the wrong combination, you’ll just be throwing good money after bad.

When I see concrete work being done in extreme cold or excessive heat, as I’m driving by, I make a mental note to double back, over time, to see how the experiment worked or didn’t work. You can only shake your head when you understand the possible outcome. There are concrete repair mixtures that include epoxy adhesives, but, again, follow the directions to the letter if you’re making the less expensive, quick repair.

It was invaluable for me to work with a mason, carpenter and painter during summers off from architecture school. The mason taught me to wet the area before continuing after our lunch break, not adding wet next to dry mortar. The dry area was already curing. The fresh mortar would have the moisture sucked right into the drier surface, weakening both, and the work in general. Good luck!

© 2026 Monte Leeper

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

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opinions America must not abdicate its leadership

Almost 60 years ago, former Secretary of State Dean Acheson wrote a memoir, “Present At the Creation,” which focused on the reality that the United States had to remake the world — or at least Europe — in the years after World War II. That required a rejection and repudiation of the isolationist “America First” policy that had predominated after World War I until Pearl Harbor.

In 1945, Hitler and Nazi Germany had been destroyed, and postwar Germany was in ruins. Though England and France had been victors, the war left them seriously weakened. The British economy was in shambles, and France, which had largely surrendered to Nazi collaborators during the war, was economically damaged and politically unstable.

Most ominously, it soon became apparent that Stalin’s Russia was intent on expanding Soviet rule in Europe, with no regard for treaties or territorial boundaries. Agreements such as Yalta and Potsdam were ignored as Soviet communist rule was imposed on

Poland, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, East Germany and most of Eastern Europe, creating what Winston Churchill so accurately labeled the Iron Curtain.

Fortunately, the United States would not repeat the tragic errors it made after World War I, which led to the inexorable rise of Hitler and World War II. The first world war had left Germany impoverished, creating fertile ground for Hitler and the growth of Naziism. The U.S. had basically demobilized its armed forces after the “war to end all wars.”

As Hitler rebuilt the German war machine in the 1930s and Europe appeased Hitler at Munich, the U.S. was slow to respond, and then the America First movement opposed helping Churchill when England was under siege.

Ultimately, the Soviet empire would implode.

U kraine needs American support, and in Iran we need NATO’s support.

Today, our world is in need of another act of creation. Russian President Vladimir Putin envisions a new Russian empire, beginning with the invasion of Ukraine. This was the first invasion of one sovereign European nation by another in the almost eight decades since World War II. This continuing attack threatens European stability and, as we should have learned from the two 20th-century conflagrations, America’s security is imperiled. The concept of Fortress America, with oceans protecting us, is outmoded, and potentially suicidal.

In the aftermath of World War II, however, the U.S. assumed the leadership of the free world. Unlike Germany under Hitler, Stalin’s Russian expansion would be halted. America First would be no more. The Marshall Plan was enacted to rebuild West Germany and Western Europe.

To prevent a replay of Munich and appeasement, NATO was created so that an attack on one would be an attack on all. Isolationism was over.

While Europe has stepped forward and provided Ukraine with needed weaponry, the Trump administration has cut off arms sales to Ukraine, instead selling them to Europe, which will provide them to Ukraine. This is unnecessarily convoluted, and is causing Ukrainian lives to be lost. The administration somehow sees a moral equivalence between Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, which isn’t that different from equating Hitler with Churchill.

Our lead negotiator, Steve Witcoff, is a real estate guy from New York with

no diplomatic experience, and he hasn’t met with the parties in months. Ukraine is fighting valiantly, and actually beating Russia on the battlefield. But being outnumbered and outgunned, Ukraine can’t survive without American support. Echoes of Munich! Similarly, we will not prevail in our struggle against Iran by announcing that we will never use ground troops or by pretending we are winning when we are stalemated by the Iranians, who have the ability to shut down the Strait of Hormuz. To succeed we will need the support of NATO nations to use their minesweeper expertise to clear the strait. That would have been easier if we had informed NATO of our intention to attack Iran in the first place. Every effort must be made to obtain congressional support, and to level with the American people that no war is easy, especially a war against religious fanatics. And every war has risks. Telling the enemy we won’t ever use ground troops only increases the risk of having to use them.

These are perilous times, and we cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the past. America must show firm leadership. America First cannot be America alone!

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

No need for Democrats to panic about Mamdani & Co.

These past few weeks have been difficult for middle-of the-road Democrats. Candidates aligned with the Democratic Socialists of America have won roughly half of 70 or so contested primary contests nationwide. The Wall Street Journal called the DSA successes “the political story of 2026.” But will the DSA drag the Democratic Party permanently to the left, or will it fade away, as the Tea Party did on the Republican side in the mid-2010s?

Over the past 50 years, I have seen the Democratic Party tugged left and center by a number of forces, but in the end the moderates have always won the tug of war. The first big DSA win was in New York City, when Zohran Mamdani was elected mayor. He has now been in office just over six months, and the political jury is still out on whether he will be able to hold on to his job for more than one term. To date, Mamdani has won some major victories, and kept his pledges to

the voters who supported him. He has gotten lots of money from Albany for pre-K and child care programs, and his promised rent freeze has been approved. He has not delivered yet on his promise of free buses, because that’s a cost that would hurt all New Yorkers who use mass transit, and can’t afford to subsidize bus riders.

GMamdani got elected by virtue of the fact that his only primary opponent was former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who turned out to be a weak candidate. Mamdani’s success can also attributed to the so-called socialists’ mastery of social media. Moderate Democrats have failed to use that medium as effectively, giving the DSA a gift that other candidates around the country have benefited from as well. Can the DSA become a major force in American politics? I personally doubt its long-term ability to survive, but I may be proven wrong. An August 2025 Gallup poll found that 39 percent of Americans had a positive view of socialism, while 57 percent had a negative view. Socialist positions like defunding the police, eliminating rent and solidarity with the Palestinian cause may ener-

overning in the modern era is a big challenge for a fledgling movement.

gize the base, but they remain liabilities in swing districts and national races. A recent article in the Atlantic reported that the DSA’s sectarian wing has refused to endorse a Democratic presidential nominee. That will undercut its political influence.

The recent DSA wins have been concentrated in cities such as New York, Seattle, Denver and Washington, where progressive voters dominate. The organization has no U.S. senators and only a handful of House members, and no member of the DSA has never won a statewide race. And the Mamdani victory is instructive. He won because he softened his image, distancing himself from defunding the police, and stuck to breadand-butter issues.

The socialist movement has an internal contradiction. Its ideologically pure wing alienates voters it needs to build majority coalitions, while its more electable candidates drift toward positions that look a lot like those of typical progressives. In the early 1970s, the New Democratic Coalition made a run at taking over the moderate wing of the Democratic Party, but failed because it

lacked a strong party structure. Electoral success in blue cities does not equal long-term political viability. For socialist candidates to establish durable legitimacy, they will need to demonstrate competence at governing. Mamdani is being watched closely to see if he can hold on to his base. To do so he will have to relax some of his stated positions, which has already unnerved some of his DSA supporters. One example, that went beyond his campaign pledges, was his decision to keep the city police commissioner, Jessica Tisch, in her position.

Some of my Democratic friends in high party positions have reached for the panic button, but I’ve urged them to hold their fire. The DSA and its base have yet to capture the Democratic centrists and hold them hostage. They may notch a few more wins, but governing in the modern era is a big challenge for a small, fledgling movement. History informs me that the moderates in the Democratic Party are still in charge, and, while threatened, are very much alive and well.

Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He currently chairs the Capitol Insight Group, a government relations firm.

Sports still bring us together

Sports have always been about more than wins and losses. At their best, they remind us that we have far more in common than the headlines, social media feeds and political arguments would have us believe.

Over the past several weeks, Long Islanders saw two remarkable examples.

The New York Knicks’ championship run transformed Long Island and New York City into one giant community gathering. Bars overflowed with fans wearing blue and orange. Families planned evenings around playoff game tipoffs. Friends who hadn’t watched a game together in years reunited.

Even people who only casually followed basketball found themselves caught up in the excitement. Whether you watched from a crowded sports bar, a watch party or your living room, you became part of something bigger than yourself.

The FIFA World Cup offered a different, but equally meaningful, lesson.

U.S. forward Folarin Balogun’s red card sparked spirited debate among soccer fans. Many questioned the referee’s decision, others defended it, and nearly everyone had an opinion. Yet those conversations, like so many others about the competition, remained focused on the pitch. Fans dissected tactics, coach-

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ing decisions and player performances not as ideological opponents, but as people who simply loved the game.

That distinction matters.

In too many corners of public life today, disagreement quickly turns into hostility. Every issue seems destined to become another battle in an endless culture war. Sports remind us that there is another way. You can passionately disagree with someone’s opinion, make your case, and then sit beside that same person to watch the next match.

Even after Belgium eliminated the United States, American supporters found themselves tipping their caps to a talented Belgian squad. There was disappointment, certainly, but also respect. Some fans even joked that Belgium had earned a little good karma along the way for not making Balogun’s controversial reinstatement an issue. That’s the beauty of sports. Defeat doesn’t have to produce bitterness. Sometimes it simply produces appreciation for excellence.

The same spirit carried Knicks fans through every dramatic moment of their championship run. Complete strangers celebrated together after clutch baskets. Subway rides morphed into rolling pep rallies. Neighborhood restaurants and bars became gathering places where age, politics, profession and background mattered far less than

the logo on a jersey.

For a few hours at a time, everyone was simply a fan. Those shared experiences strengthen communities in ways that statistics never can. They create memories between parents and children, lifelong friends and even strangers who may never meet again.

Years from now, many people won’t remember every score or every lineup change. But they will remember where they were, whom they were with and how it felt when an entire room erupted in celebration.

Our communities need more moments like that.

Sports won’t solve our political differences or erase the challenges we face. They shouldn’t have to. Their value lies elsewhere. They remind us that healthy competition doesn’t require contempt, that spirited debate doesn’t have to become personal, and that people with different backgrounds and viewpoints can still cheer, groan and celebrate together.

The Knicks gave New Yorkers a championship to remember. The World Cup is giving the world another reminder of soccer’s unmatched ability to unite people across borders and cultures. Long after the trophies are lifted and the final whistles blow, that is the real victory worth celebrating.

opinions

Seeing for ourselves where a legendary writer lived

suffolk County has been the home of many literary giants. The number is unusual for any area. It includes Walt Whitman, James Fenimore Cooper, Kurt Vonnegut, James Jones, Truman Capote, Betty Friedan, Edward Albee, E.L. Doctorow, Joseph Heller, Lanford Wilson, Joe Pintauro, Terence McNally, Colson Whitehead, Peter Matthiessen . . . and John Steinbeck.

And now, you can get an extraordinary insight into Steinbeck.

The house in Sag Harbor in which Steinbeck and his wife, Elaine, lived has been preserved. That’s thanks to donations to the Sag Harbor Partnership, the participation of the Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas (Elaine’s alma mater), $750,000 from New York state, $11.2 million from the Town of Southampton’s Community Preservation Fund, and individual contributions from folks in Sag Harbor. You can go on a free Saturday tour of the 1.8 acres of property overlooking

Sag Harbor Cove, and visit inside the house, too, on Holiday Open House Weekends. My wife and I took the tour on the Memorial Day weekend.

Among the many features of the property is Steinbeck’s charming little six-sided gazebo, his writing studio. He named it, with a sign, Joyous Garde, after Sir Lancelot’s castle in the legend of King Arthur. Steinbeck won the Nobel Prize for literature and the Pulitzer Prize for fiction for his renowned novel “The Grapes of Wrath.” Among his many other books were “East of Eden,” “Of Mice and Men,” “The Pearl,” “The Red Pony,” “The Winter of Our Discontent,” “Tortilla Flat,” Cannery Row” and “Travels with Charley: In Search of America” — which begins in Sag Harbor.

sHe and Elaine lived in the Sag Harbor house from 1955 until his death in 1968. Elaine continued to use the house until she died in 2003.

Our docent for the tour was Lori Raimondo, who is highly knowledgeable about Steinbeck. She told us how Sag Harbor reminded him of Monterey, Calif., on the Pacific Ocean south of San Francisco, where he had earlier lived. Monterey was a working-class waterfront town, like Sag Harbor in those days.

teinbeck wrote in a gazebo that had room for only a small desk and a chair.

Raimondo said that Steinbeck saw the house while looking at another one nearby, but was told it wasn’t for sale. He went over and knocked on the door, anyway, and the couple who owned it said they were just putting it up for sale.

He hung out with friends in the village, which in recent years has featured the John Steinbeck Waterfront Park. In the 1960s, he was a founder and honorary chairman of Sag Harbor’s Old Whaler’s Festival (now known as HarborFest). We lived in Sayville back then, and as a reporter for the Long Island Press, I went to Sag Harbor and interviewed Steinbeck on a festival day.

Framework by Tim Baker

In the house, Steinbeck’s creativity — and humor — were apparent immediately. Raimondo pointed out a mobile hanging in the living room, which, she noted, Steinbeck constructed from the spokes of an umbrella. Adjacent was a cozy kitchen area.

A main feature of the living room is a fireplace made with large stones, especially big in the context of the small house. Originally, Raimondo explained,

a collection of rifles hung above the fireplace, and she showed us photos of them. In a hallway that led down to a bedroom were many photos, including one of Steinbeck receiving the Nobel Prize. Up what is now a metal circular staircase — which replaced a ladder, Raimondo said — was a loft for the Steinbecks’ two sons, Thomas and John. Outside, we visited a small workshop building that, Raimondo told us, Steinbeck originally thought he could use for writing. But he found there were too many diversions in it. Then it was on to the simple Joyous Garde, which had room for only a small desk and a chair. It was a tranquil place for Steinbeck to write, with a serene view of the waters of Sag Harbor Cove through its windows. To arrange to take the tour, go to steinbeckhouse.org/visit. “There are two options for visiting,” it advises. One is a “regular Saturday visit,” on dates that are listed. The other is holiday open house weekends, Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays on which both the grounds and the home are open. Take the tour. It is immensely worthwhile.

Karl Grossman has been an investigative reporter in a variety of media for more than 50 years. He is a professor of journalism at the State University of New York at Old Westbury.

Thrilling the thousands on chairs and blankets below, the Blue Angels celebrated the nation’s 250th birthday — Jones Beach