Will Sheeline/Herald
the dutch landscape designer piet oudolf, far right, with Kathy Moser, acting commissioner of the State office of parks, Recreation and Historic preservation; duncan Sahner, the planting Fields Foundation’s board chair; and gina Wouters, the foundation’s Ceo and president.
By WIll SHEElINE wsheeline@liherald.com
A crowd of supporters, elected officials, donors and community leaders gathered at Oyster Bay’s Planting Fields Arboretum last week to celebrate the progress of the new Oudolf Garden, a one-acre plot conceived by renowned Dutch landscape designer Piet Oudolf that is scheduled to open this fall.
The May 28 event offered attendees an update on the garden’s development while highlighting what Planting Fields Foundation leaders described as the most significant addition to the historic estate in generations.
“Tonight we are here to enjoy the
grounds,” Planting Fields Foundation board Chairman Duncan Sahner said in his opening remarks, “to connect with one another and to share an update on what is becoming one of the most significant new additions to Planting Fields in generations.”
Located behind the Blue Pool Garden and adjacent to the historic Rose Arbor, the new garden will be Long Island’s first public garden designed by Oudolf, whose work includes New York City’s High Line and numerous celebrated landscapes around the world.
Foundation President and CEO Gina Wouters said the project emerged from the Continued on page 7
Now is the perfect time to review your coverage
Scan to receive a personal quote from
By WIll SHEElINE wsheeline@liherald.com
The Locust Valley Central School District unveiled a revised $99.99 million budget proposal at the Board of Education meeting on Monday, outlining spending reductions and a smaller tax levy increase — as well as the potential consequences if voters reject the plan in a June 16 revote.
vote, we heard the community’s message clearly,” Horoszewski said. “Tonight we are presenting a balanced plan that reduces the tax burden while maintaining the core educational programs and safety measures our children rely on.”
We wanted to make sure that if we lower the budget, it’s not going to impact students.
The revised spending plan comes after residents voted down the district’s original 2026-27 budget last month. District officials said the new proposal was crafted to address community concerns while preserving academic programs, extracurricular activities and safety initiatives.
KarEN HoroSzEWSKI Assistant superintendent
for business,
Locust Valley Central School District
Karen Horoszewski, assistant superintendent for business, said that the revised proposal reflects an effort to reduce costs without affecting students. “Following our initial
The revised budget is 1.73 percent larger than this year’s spending plan. It reduces spending by roughly $286,000 from the budget voters rejected, and includes a tax levy increase of 1.78 percent, roughly 0.4 percent smaller than the increase in the initial proposal. Horoszewski noted that under the state’s tax cap formula, the district was permitted to increase the levy by as much as 2.84 percent. Instead, she said, “We are passing along $955,000 in direct taxpayer savings compared to what the state allows.” According to Horoszewski, spending on administrative professional development, facilContinued on page 9
By WILL SHEELINE wsheeline@liherald.com
Members of the Life Enrichment Center of Oyster Bay laced up their walking shoes once again for the organization’s annual Walk-a-thon, a fundraiser that has evolved from a pandemic-era activity into a community-building tradition that promotes fitness, friendship and support for the center’s programs.
The event, now in its sixth year, began during the COVID-19 pandemic when gathering indoors was largely impossible. According to Judy Palumbo, director of the Life Enrichment Center, the original concept was designed to encourage older adults to remain active while maintaining social distance.
“When it started, it wasn’t even so much a group walk; it was like, walk when you want, where you want, with who you want,” Palumbo said. “It was just trying to get people outdoors.”
The fundraiser was also intended to launch a peer-to-peer fundraising effort, allowing participants to form teams and seek donations from friends, family members and professional networks.
The model continues to drive the event’s success. Palumbo said two longtime teams remain responsible for much of the money raised each year, helping generate roughly $15,000 annually for the center. Last year’s event raised approximately $17,000.
Dozens of members of the Life Enrichment Center of Oyster Bay participated in the sixth annual Walk-a-thon, which first started during the pandemic.
The walk itself follows a route through Oyster Bay, beginning on White Street before entering Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park through the marina entrance. Participants gathered for a group photograph near the flagpole before continuing through the park and returning toward Audrey Avenue.
The event requires coordination with local officials, including permits and a police escort. Organizers also arrange for a golf cart to accompany walkers in case participants need assistance along the route.
While the basic structure of the fund-
raiser has remained largely unchanged over the years, the center has expanded its walking activities beyond the annual event. Organized walks throughout the year have helped create lasting social connections among participants.
“It’s established a lot of new friendships,” Palumbo said. “It’s really opened some doors for people socially.”
The center’s regular walking program has included destinations throughout the region, from local historic sites to waterfront routes. This year’s schedule focuses on locations closer to Oyster Bay, including walks around Sag-
amore Hill and the waterfront.
For Palumbo, the event’s value extends beyond fundraising. She said the walk-a-thon reflects the center’s broader mission of promoting healthy aging and encouraging older adults to stay active. Palumbo emphasized the importance of maintaining mobility as people age.
“One of the things when we first launched it, you know, you take for granted that you can walk,” she said. “I just would like to encourage people to take advantage of all you could do, you know at this point of your life.”
Among the participants this year was 96-year old Filomena Ladisa, who completed the walk-a-thon for the second consecutive year.
Asked what she enjoys most about the event, Ladisa pointed to the opportunity to spend time outdoors and connect with others.
She also praised the Life Enrichment Center itself and the services it provides for older adults in the community.
“I love it,” Ladisa said. “I love it to be here.”
Comparing the center to other senior programs she has encountered, Ladisa added, “I saw other places. I went in Florida. Nothing like this.”
For more information on the enrichment center, the work it does and how to support it, visit LifeEnrichmentCenterOysterBay.org.
The town required all items to be original and handcrafted.
Despite windy weather, Town of Oyster Bay residents gathered at Theodore Roosevelet Memorial Park and Beach for the town’s annual Art in the Park event. This year’s event was held on May 30 and featured more than 90 local artists and artisans.
All items being displayed or sold were required to be original and handcrafted, including paintings, jewelry, ceramics, photography, woodworking, and art made with sea glass. Food trucks like Crepes and Bakes and Cousins Maine Lobster offered food as attendees explored and shopped. Child-friendly activities, like inflatables, were also included.
The event, first launched in 2022, is run by the town’s Department of Community and Youth Services, Cultural and Performing Arts Division.
In an effort to help protect diamondback terrapins, the Town of Oyster Bay and Friends of the Bay are co-hosting a terrapin conservation and beach cleanup day on June 20 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Centre Island Beach in Bayville.
“The Town of Oyster Bay joined forces with Friends of the Bay to launch ‘Team Terrapin,’ to help protect the Diamondback Terrapin turtle, as this small species lives in fresh or brackish waters in our town,” said Town Clerk Richard LaMarca. “These turtles, which have distinctive diamond-shaped rings covering their shells, have a near-threatened conservation status and we are working with our environmental partners and local volunteers to help protect this vulnerable species.”
During this terrapin conservation and beach cleanup day, volunteers will be trained to identify signs of nesting terrapins and briefed on how to collect data. The event features a beach cleanup and tours of nesting sites.
“We feel it is our duty to protect and bring awareness to this vulnerable and
At Ettinger Law Firm, we are fond of saying “trusts create order out of chaos” — for three major reasons: First, an ever-increasing number of Americans suffer a period of legal disability later in life. Without your own private plan for disability, consisting of a trust and a “prescription strength” elder law power of attorney, you run the risk of a state appointed legal guardian. Do you want the people you choose to be in charge in the event of your disability, with the freedom to act immediately in your best interests, or do you want the state to appoint someone, often a stranger, who will require court permission to protect your assets and your family — which permission is sometimes denied. A guardianship proceeding is expensive, timeconsuming and stressful — in other words, chaotic. Trusts create an orderly process whereby your appointed trustees consult with your elder law attorney and are free to act immediately without court interference. Secondly, trusts avoid probate court proceedings on death whereby wills, even though supervised by an attorney, with
two witnesses and a notary, must first be proven to be valid in court proceedings. The client has no control over probate court proceedings — the time they will take or the amount they will cost. Typically, it takes months and, not unusually, one to two years or more. Meantime, property cannot be sold and assets cannot be reached to pay bills. In other words, chaos. With a trust, the trustee may act immediately upon death, list property for sale and access investments and bank accounts.
Thirdly, wills provide no plan for protecting your home and life savings either from the cost of in-home care or nursing home care. Nothing is more chaotic then seeing one’s home and life savings used up in a few short years to pay for the high cost of long-term care. A properly drafted Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (MAPT) protects your assets from long-term care costs and allows you to leave a legacy to your children and grandchildren. When the time comes, your MAPT will allow you to qualify for Medicaid
for your care at
or in a facility.
important species that is native to our area,” Christine Suter, executive director of Friends of the Bay, ” and we are inviting volunteers to help us gain a better understanding of the current status of the Oyster Bay diamondback terrapin population.”
Terrapin monitoring will take place for four to six weeks after the event and Team Terrapin volunteers will be encouraged to sign up for half-hour or one-hour monitoring shifts during weekdays and weekends. Community service hours and certificates of participation will be provided upon request.
Terrapins can be found along the northern shore of Oyster Bay, especially at Centre Island Beach, with a large population at the head of Mill Neck Creek near Beaver Dam. To register for the event, volunteers should visit FriendsOfTheBay.org/terrapin-monitoring. For more information, email info@ friendsofthebay.org.
–Will Sheeline
With hospitals facing a nationwide blood shortage, Town of Oyster Bay residents are invited to attend a blood collection drive on next Tuesday from 1 to 7 p.m. at the Hicksville Athletic Center, located at 167 S. Broadway in Hicksville.
“Blood supplies are critically needed for local hospitals to meet the demand and continue saving lives,” Town Councilman Steve Labriola wrote in a statement. “Please consider participating in this blood drive to help bolster our blood banks and ensure as many people as possible can be helped. Together, we can give the gift of life though a simple blood donation.”
Appointments are preferred for the town’s blood drive. To qualify as a donor, a person must be between the ages of 17 and 75 years old (16 with parental permission and 76 or older with a doctor’s note), weigh at least 110 pounds and not have donated blood within the last 56 days.
Anyone who received a tattoo within the past three months is ineligible to
donate. It is recommended that donors eat well (low fat) and drink fluids in the days before the Blood Drive. All donors will receive a voucher for a free Blizzard at Dairy Queen, and donors who enter their email addresses will receive two free New York Mets tickets via email one week after the donation drive.
“It’s quick, easy, and safe to donate a single pint of blood which can save up to three lives,” Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino wrote in the same statement.
“Donating blood at the Hicksville Athletic Center, is an incredible way for all of us to pitch in and give back, to help ease the burden of our Healthcare Heroes as they continue to provide lifesaving efforts.”
For additional information regarding the town’s blood drive, contact (516) 6246380. To make an appointment to donate at this blood drive, sign up today at OysterBayTown.com/blooddrive.
–Will Sheeline
249 E-mail: rglickman@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4643
■ PUBlIC NOTICES: Ext. 232 E-mail: legalnotices@liherald.com
By WILL SHEELINE
wsheeline@liherald.com
Long Island played a major role in the American Revolution, serving as the site of a pivotal battle, a center of intelligence gathering and the headquarters of British military operations in the region. While much of the war’s most famous fighting occurred elsewhere, the conflict shaped daily life on Long Island from 1776 until the British departure at the end of the war. Here are three things to know about Long Island during the Revolution:
Fought in August 1776, the Battle of Long Island, also known as the Battle of Brooklyn, was the first major engagement after the signing of the Declaration of Independence and remains the largest battle of the Revolutionary War.
British forces launched a major offensive against the Continental Army. The battle ended in a significant British victory.
Despite the defeat, the battle is remembered today for Washington’s successful evacuation of his army. Under the cover of darkness and aided by favorable weather conditions, thousands of American soldiers crossed the East River to Manhattan during the night. The escape preserved the Continental Army despite the defeat and allowed the revolution to continue.
Following their victory in 1776, British authorities established control over the region from Brooklyn to the eastern end of Suffolk County.
The island was placed under martial law and governed by military authorities.
Life under occupation was often difficult for residents. British officers frequently took over private homes leaving families with limited living space. British Lt. Col. John Simcoe stayed at Raynham Hall in Oyster Bay, alongside the Townsend family, although he was not viewed as negatively as some other occupiers.
The occupation continued until the end of the Revolutionary War. Only after the British defeat did troops withdraw from Long Island and other occupied territories.
Long Island served as a British military stronghold during the war
Because the British occupied New York and Long Island, patriot leaders needed reliable information about enemy plans, troop movements and military strength. To obtain that information, Captain Benjamin Tallmadge established what became known as the Culper Spy Ring.
Operating in secret, members of the network gathered information from occupied territory and passed it through a chain of couriers and agents, including Robert Townsend of Oyster Bay. The spy ring relied on coded messages, aliases and other techniques designed to avoid detection. Its operations helped provide American commanders with valuable intelligence throughout the conflict, including some which helped stop a British plot to devalue Continental currency.
By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com
Transgender, gender non-binary and intersex residents, joined by family members, friends and allies, gathered outside the Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building in Mineola on Saturday for a rally celebrating identity, resilience and community solidarity while drawing attention to legislative and social issues affecting transgender people.
The event, hosted by Gender Equality New York, brought together advocates and supporters from across Long Island amid what organizers described as a period of increasing anti-transgender rhetoric and legislation affecting transgender rights.
“This gathering is more than a rally. It is a declaration of our pride and a reminder of the collective power we hold when we rise together,” Juli GreyOwens, executive director of GENY, said. “Our voices matter. Our lives matter. And we refuse to be silenced, erased or pushed back into the shadows.”
Participants emphasized visibility, equality and the protection of civil rights for transgender, nonbinary and intersex people, with several organizations coming from across the Island, including the Long Island Progressive Coalition, Rockville Centre Pride and Freeport Pride.
Karin Johnson, co-founder of Rockville Centre Pride, thanked the ralliers for continuing their fight for equal rights.
“You make the world more beautiful, more interesting and more amazing,” Johnson said. “I am filled with gratitude for your magnificent resistance, and the world will be, too.”
Throughout the afternoon, attendees listened to speeches from advocates, joined in songs celebrating community and resilience, and joined in chants call-
ing for transgender rights and equality, saying, “We are here! We will not disappear!”
Joe Sackman, executive director of the Long Island Progressive Coalition, spoke about his own experience with a close friend who reached out to him for help to navigate her transition years ago.
“Twenty years later, I stand here today with you, not just as an ally, but a spirit knowing that all of us are on journeys,” Sackman said. “Some of us have
had head starts, some of us have had harder struggles and bigger hurdles to continue, and we all need help on this journey.”
Ralliers voiced their opposition to discrimination and discussed challenges the members of the transgender community face. Speakers highlighted the experiences of people who they said cannot safely live openly as their authentic selves, and called for continued advocacy to ensure equal opportunities and protections.
“Remember this moment, remember this feeling, remember this truth,” Grey-Owens said in concluding the rally. “We are visible, we are united and we’re not going anywhere. Our futures are not up for debate.”
Gender Equality New York advocates for the rights of transgender, gender non-binary and intersex people throughout New York state. Through advocacy, education and community outreach, the organization works to increase public understanding, address discrimination and promote equal rights.
GENY’s work is centered on four core pillars — advocacy, education, connection and empowerment — and focuses on addressing barriers to economic, educational, racial and social equity while promoting a more inclusive society, according to the organization. For more information, visit GenderEqualityNY.org.
foundation’s commitment to preserving the historic estate while continuing the legacy of artistic and landscape innovation established by the Coe family.
“What sets us apart is how we honor the Coe family, who gifted this incredible property to the people of the state of New York in 1955 and established Planning Fields Foundation in 1952,” Wouters said. “We place equal value on the preservation of what they left us, both tangible and intangible, and we keep their spirit alive by continuing the rich legacy of patronage of artists and designers they brought to the site.”
Wouters said she began thinking about which contemporary designer might fit into that tradition over four years ago. She added that when she considered that the Coes brought over “the best of the best,” when it came to landscaping, Oudolf was the only choice.
The garden is expected to feature more than 25,000 plants and 22,000 bulbs on what Wouters described as “the most beautiful acre on Long Island.”
According to Wouters, the project moved quickly after her initial outreach to Oudolf in 2023 and his first visit to the estate that October, during which he questioned how his contemporary style would fit into the historic landscape.
“Piet said — and I remember this — you said, ‘Gina, my work is very different from what you do here,’” Wouters recalled, “and I said, ‘That’s exactly the point.’”
The planting designs were completed within months, Wouters sasid, and construction and planting work soon followed. The garden is scheduled to open to the public on Oct. 17.
Beyond its visual impact, foundation leaders said, the garden is expected to enhance educational programming, environmental stewardship and visitor
engagement throughout the 409-acre state historic park.
“In the coming months, this garden will become a major public destination and a source of pride for the region,” Sahner said, “and it will deepen our existing work in education, in wellness and in environmental stewardship.”
Kathy Moser, acting commissioner of the State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, who attended the event, praised the partnership between the foundation and the office, noting the role nonprofit organizations play in supporting public
sites like Planting Fields, a state historic park, across New York.
“The way that we make our 250 parks and historic sites work,” Moser said, “is because of partnerships like the Planning Fields Foundation.”
Oudolf, who spoke briefly, reflected on his initial impressions of Planting Fields and the importance of ensuring that gardens thrive long after their designers leave. One of his primary concerns when taking on a project, he said, is whether the people responsible for maintaining it will embrace the design and carry it forward.
“It’s not the work I do,” Oudolf explained. “It’s about people that have to work with it, and to keep it going, and to bring it into the future.”
The foundation recently hired a landscape curator who will oversee the long-term care of the garden.
Wouters said the project is accompanied by a major fundraising effort aimed not only at completing construction, but also ensuring its future maintenance through an endowment and dedicated staffing.
The garden is expected to transform a previously open area of the estate into a destination showcasing Oudolf’s signature naturalistic style, which emphasizes structure, texture and seasonal change. As construction continues through the summer, foundation leaders hope the garden will become a major attraction for both Long Island residents and visitors from around the world.
“I think I only have positive reactions, and I think I believe in it,” Oudolf said. “I hope you will like it, like I like it in my work, in the future.”
For more information on the Planting Fields Foundation, the arboretum and how to support the Oudolf Garden and other projects, visit PlantingFields.org.
Reworld recently honored many of Long Island’s leading sustainability advocates, municipal leaders, students, organizations and community partners during the 2026 Herald Sustainability Awards of Long Island Presented by Reworld, on May 14 at The Heritage Club at Bethpage.
The event recognized those making meaningful contributions to environmental policy, conservation, education, municipal sustainability and community-driven programs across Long Island. Reworld also awarded local students with $2,500 in prizes for their efforts to inspire sustainability and encourage the next generation of environmental leadership.
“Environmental progress depends on people and organizations who are willing to lead with purpose and take action in their own communities,” said James Regan, Reworld’s market area director. “Through our work across Long Island, Reworld helps communities reduce landfill reliance, recover valuable resources and create more sustainable solutions for managing waste. We are proud to support and recognize the leaders, students and community partners who are helping move Long Island toward a cleaner, stronger and more sustainable future.”
Twenty honorees were recognized across six award categories throughout the evening celebrating leaders, organizations and students who are driving meaningful environmental progress across Long Island:
• Environmental Policy Leaders: Suffolk County Executive Edward P. Romaine and New York State Senator Siela Bynoe (District 6), recognized for their leadership on environmental protection, responsible growth and long-term sustainability across Long Island.
• Community Impact for Sustainability: Devon Giordano (Long Island Conservancy); Derek Betts (Nassau County Soil and Water Conservation District); Corey Humphrey, C.P.E.S.C. (Suffolk County Soil and Water Conservation District); Cynthia Seibold (Balloon Mission Inc.); Eileen Minogue (Book Fairies); Julie Tighe (NY League of Conservation Voters and Education Fund); Maxine Montello (New York Marine Rescue Center); and Robyn Silvestri (Save the Great South Bay).
• Environmental Leaders: National Grid Ventures, UBS Arena and Tritec Real Estate Company, honored for incorporating sustainability into ener-
gy, infrastructure, development and large-scale operations.
• Municipal Leaders for the Environment: Marty Bellew (Town of Islip Department of Environmental Control and Islip Resource Recovery Agency); and Nicholas Krupski (Southold Town Department of Solid Waste).
• College Student Champion for Sustainability: Vienna De Lombaerde (Senior, Hofstra University).
• Student Champion for Sustainability: Zoe Lazarus and Emma Klein (9th grade, Sayville High School); Charles Metzger (10th grade, Roslyn High School); and Matias Kalaitzis (12th grade, Hauppauge High School).
As the presenting sponsor, Reworld continues to support those at the forefront of environmental progress on Long Island. With facilities in Westbury, West Babylon, East Northport and Ronkonkoma, Reworld processes two-thirds of Long Island’s waste, recycles 60,000 tons of metals and generates enough electricity to power 100,000 homes each year. Through its work, Reworld helps lower greenhouse gas emissions and support local communities in adopting more sustainable waste solutions. Reworld remains committed to fostering sustainability throughout Long Island with programs that engage local schools, nonprofit organizations, municipalities and community partners. From educational initiatives and environmental awareness campaigns to local cleanups and community programming, Reworld
continues to support the next generation of sustainability advocates while strengthening the region’s commit-
ities equipment purchases and business office contracts was reduced. Additional state aid, made available after the late adoption of the state budget, also helped offset costs.
Responding to questions from school board Trustee Kristina Tomlinson, Horoszewski provided details on the reductions.
“The first budget line item I looked at is going to be the business office,” she said. “I looked at our contractual expenses, one being our financial advisers … that I was able to cut.”
She added that the district identified roughly $20,000 in maintenance equipment reductions, $20,000 in professional development savings and cuts to administrative conference travel expenses.
Horoszewski emphasized that district leaders specifically targeted areas that would not affect students.
A proposed $2.5 million transfer to capital funds for infrastructure and security projects remains a significant component of the spending plan. District officials defended the expenditure, describing it as part of a longstanding strategy to avoid borrowing costs. Horoszewski explained that as older bond debt was retired, the district shifted toward funding capital improvements directly rather than issuing new debt.
Board President George Vasiliou also stressed the importance of planned
security upgrades, particularly building doors and locking systems.
“Our doors and our locks are outdated,” Vasiliou said. “Being able to hit essentially a panic button and lock down the doors in the building, that gives law enforcement that much more time to get in and to protect us. That’s why these are really critical.”
Much of the presentation focused on what would happen if voters were to reject the revised budget on June 16. Under state education law, a second defeat would require the district to adopt a contingency budget. That would freeze the tax levy at its current level and prohibit spending on non-contingent expenses, Horoszewski said.
Among the programs that could be eliminated are elementary school clubs, before-school band and orchestra programs, late buses, overnight and international field trips, driver’s education, the after-school EMT program, summer academic intervention services and planned weight room upgrades.
Community programs would also be affected. The district would discontinue its financial support for local senior centers, eliminate the summer recreation program and halt subsidized community use of athletic fields and school facilities.
Horoszewski repeatedly stressed that those restrictions would be mandated by state law. “The district is legally prohibited from spending frozen taxpayer
funds to subsidize or operate these nonessential programs,” she said.
She also explained that community groups that use district resources and facilities would have to reimburse the district for all associated expenses, such as custodial salaries andutilities and facility wear and tear.
Board Trustee Matthew Barnes questioned how such costs might be offset in other ways. Horoszewski acknowledged the complexity of the process, and said that district officials were already exploring their options.
The board also discussed transportation costs. Horoszewski said that the district recently negotiated a favorable fiveyear busing agreement, but acknowledged that a contingency budget would force the district to limit contracts to one year. “Year two to five [would] no longer be on the table,” she said.
During the public comment portion of the meeting, residents raised questions about which cuts would be mandatory under a contingency budget, and what additional community outreach could be conducted before the revote.
Addressing broader concerns about long-term spending growth, Vasiliou said that district leaders plan to begin discussing future budget strategies with the community this fall.
The budget revote is scheduled for June 16. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Locust Valley and North Shore High School life skills student basketball players got the varsity treatment, as Locust Valley students filled the stands and cheerleaders got the crowd going at a friendly exhibition in May.
The Locust Valley and North Shore life skills programs have developed a close relationship over the past four years, starting a basketball game and lunch day for the students to compete and come together. This year, Locust Valley life skills teachers Jennifer Bluestein, Jessica DiPardo and Jessica Garrison wanted to reciprocate and host North Shore. To commemorate the event, the high school’s Peer Leaders and Best Buddies clubs created signs to celebrate both the Falcons and Vikings teams. The SEPTA parents council provided the teams with a postgame pizza meal.
–Will Sheeline
By SEAN KENNEDY Correspondent
With a celebration of history and patriotism, the “birthplace of American Naval aviation,” on Nassau County’s North Shore, was honored two weeks ago by Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and other area officials as part of the nation’s 250th anniversary commemoration.
One of the earliest naval aviation programs was created at the Peacock Point Estate, in Lattingtown. In 1916, a group of 28 students from Yale University formed the First Yale Unit, which was the first naval air reserve unit to enter service in World War I.
“We are known as the Cradle of Aviation,” Blakeman said of Nassau County on May 21, “but not that many people know about what happened here at Peacock Point.”
Nicknamed the Millionaires’ Unit due to the privileged upbringing of its members, the group took part in war battles and daring rescues. Descendants of its members who attended the ceremony included Henry P. Davison II, grandson of founding member F. Trubee Davison, on whose property the ceremony take place.
“We are, in this generation, extremely fortunate to have had members of all of our families play such an important
and Lt. Raven Shanmugam at the America 250 celebration.
role in giving us the gift of liberty that we enjoy today,” Davison said. “We never take it for granted, and we are very grateful for their efforts.”
The families of the unit’s members
used their financial resources to bolster the U.S. Naval Reserves, which was in its infancy at the time. The stories from the First Yale Unit made it clear that no matter their social status, these young
Selling on the
men would potentially sacrifice their lives in order to defend America and its values.
“My grandparents could have used their social status to be able to avoid being drawn into the conflict, and yet they decided that they were going to lead the way into battle,” Davison said. “In their mind, there was an explicit understanding that ‘to whom much is given, much is expected.’”
The event included a ceremonial flyover of U.S. Naval aircraft, as a T-45 Goshawk flew across the Long Island Sound. Navy Lt. Raven Shanmugam and Lt. Luke O’Sullivan, both pilots in the Training Squadron 9 Tigers of the Naval Air Station Meridian, in Mississippi, orchestrated the flyover. After the pilots arrived at the event, Blakeman thanked each one for their service to the country.
“We’re incredibly proud that you’re with us to join in this celebration on the 250th anniversary of America,” Blakeman said.
Local officials echoed the importance of the nation’s servicemen, women and veterans. “From the Revolutionary War to the present day, generations of Americans have answered the call to serve and protect our freedom,” Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino said. “We’re proud of our veterans, and truly proud of all America has to offer.”
By ANDREW FRANCIS afrancis@liherald.com
While much debate has surrounded the sports and soccer fan experience tied to the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup — from concerns over rising ticket prices to reports of steep train fares for matches — experts say Long Island businesses could see a significant economic boost from the tournament coming to the region.
It ’s a worldwide event and it’s increasingly something that the people of Long Island are more and more interested
New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium, the home of American football teams New York Jets and Giants, will host eight soccer matches, including two playoff games and the championship final match. Despite the fact that no games will be played in New York, FIFA’s temporary renaming of MetLife Stadium as “New York/New Jersey Stadium” markets the New York metropolitan area to the thousands of fans who will be following the tournament.
“I think that our general view is that it would be a positive for the Long Island region,” Kent said. “We’re already seeing watch parties starting to be established. For example. Stony Brook University is going to have one at LaValle Stadium… and I think all of those things will bring incremental dollars to Long Island.”
While Long Island hotels may be a bit out of the way for some fans visiting New York and attending World Cup matches, Kent believes that local businesses may be able to capitalize on the interest the tournament sparks amongst residents.
in
StE vE KENt Chief economist, Long Island Association
Steve Kent, chief economist and director of the Long Island Association’s Research Institute, says that the World Cup promises to be economically beneficial for Long Island.
“I also think that you may even see more spending at restaurants, caterers and supermarkets as people start to take in food to watch some of these things at home,” Kent explained. “It’s a worldwide event and it’s increasingly something that the people of Long Island are more and more interested in.”
This growth in interest has been seen in rising rates of adult and youth participation in soccer across Long Island.
The Island F.C., a professional men’s and women’s soccer club based in Uniondale that plans to join the MLS
As the world turns its attention towards the World Cup matches in Canada, Mexico and the U.S., Long Island communities may stand to get a bit of an economic boost from the tournament this summer.
Next Pro league in the 2027 season, has contributed to soccer’s popularity on Long Island through hosting youth soccer academies and other events locally.
“Long Island has had one of the deepest soccer traditions in soccer history in the country especially in the youth space and then also the traditional space,” said Travis Lamprecht, The Island F.C.’s president of business operations. “I think what’s unique about Long Island is that it’s always been a hotbed for the sport. So, with The Island F.C. launching, and then obviously what
the World Cup coming here, it’s a celebration of what has been growing for a long time.”
In recent history, the Long Island Association has also noticed other major sporting events nearby, like the 2025 Ryder Cup that was held on a golf course in Farmingdale, directly impact Long Island economically. While it is not yet clear how directly Long Island will be impacted by the World Cup, local intrigue alone can make the summer very profitable for many businesses and communities.
New York’s energy debate is often framed as a question of transition. But for many experts, environmental advocates and utility officials, the more immediate issue is one of necessity. Electric demand is rising, infrastructure is aging and customers are grappling with utility costs, all while the state works to reduce pollution and prepare for future growth.
The fastest way to add more power to the grid is through renewable energy paired with battery storage. Offshore wind, solar power and battery energy storage have become central to the conversation because they can diversify the grid, provide stable sources of energy and reduce environmental impact.
The New York Independent System Operator has predicted energy demand will increase by 65% by 2040, putting pressure on an already strained electric system that still relies heavily on aging
fossil-fuel infrastructure.
“Our electricity needs are increasing,” said Doug Schmid, environmental science professor at Nassau Community College and executive committee member of the Sierra Club Long Island Group.
“The New York State plan for our energy future is counting on 9,000 megawatts of offshore wind energy. We need it.”
Renewable energy advocates also point to the environmental and public health benefits tied to reducing combustion emissions.
“The wind blows, the turbines turn, and energy is produced,” said Adrienne Esposito, executive director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment. “The air quality is not impacted.”
Esposito said communities are
already experiencing the effects of climate change through rising seas, heavier rainfall and coastal damage, concerns that directly affect Long Island’s economy, tourism industry and shoreline infrastructure. Insurance costs in flood-prone areas are also becoming a growing issue. Though renewable energy projects have faced opposition and misinformation campaigns funded by fossil-fuel interests, advocates say offshore wind, solar and battery storage together offer a practical path toward meeting future energy demand, improving affordability, creating jobs and reducing emissions.
Dear Great Book Guru, We are getting ready for the annual James Joyce Jaunt here in Sea Cliff on - of course - June 16: Bloomsday! Talking to friends about the Jaunt, one mentioned a great new book about London. It’s a true crime tale by the author of SAY NOTHINGthat amazing story of the Irish Troubles. Does it sound familiar?
James Joyce Jaunter
abouts.
This first section delves into Zac’s history, and we are shocked as are his parents to discover he has been living a double life posing as Zac Ismailov, son of a Russian oligarch. The second part of the book introduces a London few of us would recognize - a city’s whose very survival has become dependent on corruption, oligarch money, and underworld criminals.
The third and final section focuses on Zac’s parents as they try to put together the truth surrounding their son’s bizarre transformation and eventual death. Throughout, they and the reader grapple with the question of whether we ever really can know even those we love dearly. Highly recommended.
Dear James Joyce Jaunter, Patrick Radden Keefe’s latest book is “London Falling” and it is by far the best book I’ve read this year. Divided into three parts, the book opens with the disappearance of teenager Zac Brettler. We share in the mounting anxiety of his parents as days go by without any sign of their son. The police seem less than interested and his friends offer conflicting stories of his possible where-
Would you like to ask the Great Book Guru for a book suggestion? Contact her at annmdipietro@gmail.com.
By Karen Bloom
June brings one of the region’s most anticipated harvests — strawberry season.
For a few fleeting weeks, local fields burst with rows of bright red berries, offering the unmistakable sweetness and flavor that only fresh-picked fruit can deliver. It’s a seasonal tradition that invites families outdoors to enjoy sunny days and fill baskets at nearby U-Pick farms.
While spring fades into summer, strawberries reach their peak here, ripening throughout June and rewarding pickers with fruit far sweeter than supermarket varieties shipped from afar. The short harvest season makes each bite feel like a celebration of early summer.
And the enjoyment doesn’t end at the farm. Back home, those ruby-red berries can take center stage in everything from simple snacks to homemade desserts and refreshing seasonal recipes, bringing a taste of our Long Island summer to every table.
Classic Strawberry Shortcake
The quintessential treat is always in style.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 package (16 ounces) strawberries
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons chilled unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 3/4 cups milk
Hull strawberries and cut each in half. Combine half of strawberries in a bowl with 2 tablespoons sugar. Combine cream and vanilla with remaining sugar and set aside. Stir cream occasionally to dissolve sugar.
Preheat oven to 350° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and trace outline of an 8-inch circle. Set aside.
Whisk together flour, cream of tartar, baking soda and salt in a large bowl. With a pastry cutter or 2 knives, cut in 4 tablespoons butter until
mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in milk until dough just comes together. Pat dough into an 8-inch circle using outline on parchment paper as a guide. Bake about 30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Remove from oven and let cool 5 minutes on pan. Using a serrated knife, slice crosswise in half and carefully separate. Spread insides with remaining room temperature butter. Combine strawberries and cover bottom shortcake layer with half of the strawberry mixture. Replace top cake layer on bottom layer and cover with remaining strawberries. Serve warm, cut into wedges and drizzled with sweetened cream.
Strawberry Arugula Salad
This colorful salad makes a healthy, flavorful statement on your summer table.
• 5 ounces arugula
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 pound strawberries, thinly sliced
• 3/4 cup finely chopped red onion (about ½ small onion)
• 4 ounces crumbled goat cheese or feta, or 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup roasted and salted sunflower seeds
• 1/2 cup halved and thinly sliced radish (about 3 medium)
• 1 medium jalapeño, very thinly sliced (omit if sensitive to spice)
Balsamic vinaigrette:
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 ½ tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
½ tablespoon maple syrup or honey
1 clove garlic, pressed or minced
Pinch of fine sea salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Assemble the salad: On a large serving platter or in a large serving bowl, layer the ingredients as listed.
Prepare the vinaigrette: In a liquid measuring cup or small bowl, combine all of the ingredients and whisk until fully blended. Taste, and add more salt or pepper if needed. The dressing should be nice and tangy, but you can add more maple syrup for balance if desired.
When ready to serve the salad, drizzle vinaigrette on top, and toss to combine. Serve promptly. (If you’re planning to have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately and toss before serving.) Stored separately, leftovers will keep well for 3 to 4 days.
Strawberry-Ricotta Pastry
Perfect for a party or simply indulging yourself, these addictive pastry puffs make it hard to stop at one.
• 2 sheets puff pastry
• 1/2 cup, plus 1 tablespoon, heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar, divided
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 basket fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/2 cup homemade, part-skim or whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Heat oven to 400 F.
Cut both puff pastry sheets into nine squares. Make slit in corner of each square toward middle of pastry. Fold corners to other corners to create pinwheel shape. Brush pastry with 1 tablespoon heavy cream. Combine 1/4 cup granulated sugar and ground cinnamon then sprinkle on each puff pastry.
Bake 12-15 minutes until pastry is golden brown and raised.
In medium saucepan on medium to high heat, pour in remaining granulated sugar and water. Once sugar is dissolved, pour in fresh strawberries. Bring mixture to boil then simmer 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until strawberries are broken apart and semi-thick sauce is created. Let chill in refrigerator 2 hours. To chill faster, put in freezer 45 minutes.
In medium bowl, using mixer, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside. In separate medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until fluffy. Return whipped cream to ricotta mixture and whip 1-2 minutes until mixture is light and fluffy.
Spoon ricotta cream into center of each puff pastry pinwheel. Spoon strawberry compote in middle of ricotta mixture.
Sands Point Preserve’s reserve’s historic mansions and waterfront grounds are the majestic backdrop for a lively musical afternoon. Northwinds Symphonic Band returns with “Broadway, Movies, and Light Classics.” The concert (indoors) features treasured tunes from the big screen to the Broadway stage. Conductors Helen P. Bauer and Brandon Bromsey’s entertaining program of instrumental and vocal selections from popular movies and Broadway shows, as well as familiar classics., with music music from “Cyberworld 3D,” favorites from “Star Wars” and much more. The concert also pays tribute to Louis Armstrong with Satchmo! A special appearance by Broadway performer Karen Murphy and tenor Joe Stroppel are among the highlights. Consider bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy on the majestic grounds prior to the concert.
Sunday, June 7, 3 p.m. $10. 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit sandspointpreserveconservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901.
David Lee Roth
Get ready to jump! Diamond Dave is back! The iconic, high-flying frontman of Van Halen is bringing his legendary swagger and a massive arsenal of rock anthems to the Paramount stage. Fans can expect a high-octane night packed with timeless hits like “Jump,” “Panama,” and “Runnin’ with the Devil.”
This tour marks a massive return for the rock legend, who officially ended a five-year hiatus from the stage last May with a triumphant, headline-making debut at the M3 Rock Festival. Far from a strippeddown nostalgic act, Roth backs up his signature showmanship with a powerhouse new eight-piece band to perfectly replicates those massive, classic Van Halen harmonies. Between the fresh musical muscle and Roth’s undiminished, charismatic stage presence, this promises to be an unforgettable night of nostalgia and high-energy rock ‘n’ roll.
Sunday, June 7, 8 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
On Exhibit Nassau County Museum of Art joins in the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. Its landmark exhibition explores how Long Island has reflected and shaped the story of American art. From Revolutionary-era portraiture and folk art to nineteenth-century landscapes, Impressionism, and the bold innovations of Abstract Expressionism and Pop Art, the exhibition highlights how every major art movement found expression here. From Brooklyn to Montauk, Long Island’s natural beauty, coastal light, and close connection to New York City inspired generations of artists and gave rise to thriving art colonies and postwar creative communities. Featuring paintings, decorative arts, and historical objects displayed together in immersive settings, the exhibit celebrates the region’s enduring influence and its rich artistic legacy. On view through July 12.
• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor
• Time: Ongoing
• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337
Fridays: Secrets of the Synoptic Garden
Step into one of the most unique gardens in the region with Arboretum Director and expert horticulturist Vincent Simeone when Planting Fields First Fridays series continues. The Synoptic Garden comes to life, an extraordinary living collection planted in the 1960s and arranged alphabetically from A to Z by scientific name. As you explore, you’ll discover a curated “best of” selection of ornamental trees and shrubs that thrive on Long Island and throughout the greater New York area. $25 per person. Registration required.
• Where: 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay
• Time: 10-11 a.m.
• Contact: plantingfields.org or call (516) 922-9210
The Learning Tree Nursery school holds a bingo fundraiser at the Oyster Bay Fire Department. The evening includes raffles, blind bags and more. Bring your own food and drinks.
• Where: 188 South St., Oyster Bay
• Time: 6 p.m.
• Contact: thelearningtreeob@gmail.com or call (516) 922-5999
The Locust Valley Chamber of Commerce invites all to its annual Art Walk. Stroll the sidewalks of Locust Valley and view a variety of pieces by local artists. Rain date is June 28.
• Where: Birch Hill Road, Locust Valley
• Time: 12 p.m.
• Contact: LocustValleyChamberOfCommerce.com
Contemporary swing revival band Big Bad Voodoo Daddy visits the Paramount ready to cut loose. Since their formation in the early ‘90s in Ventura, Calif., the band has toured virtually nonstop, performing on average over 150 shows a year, and has produced a sizable catalog of recorded music. Early on, during their legendary residency at the Derby nightclub in Los Angeles, they reminded the world, in the midst of the grunge era no less, that it was still cool to swing. The band, co-founded by singer Scotty Morris and drummer Kurt Sodergren, was at the forefront of the swing revival of that time, blending a vibrant fusion of the classic American sounds of jazz, swing, and dixieland, with the energy and spirit of contemporary culture. Taking inspiration from the creators of this uniquely American art form, the band’s original horn-infused music and legendary high energy show introduces the genre to a new and younger generation while remaining cognizant and respectful of the music’s rich legacy. Together for over 32 years, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy — famously named after an autograph by blues legend Albert Collins — has appeared in concert venues across the world, sold millions of records, and had their music appear in movies and television shows. With sold-out concerts from the Hollywood Bowl to Lincoln Center, appearances with many of the country’s finest symphony orchestras, and television appearances ranging from Dancing with the Stars to Super Bowl XXXIII, the band continues its decades long mission to celebrate and revitalize jazz and swing music — America’s original musical art form — and bring joy to audiences around the world.
Join Planting Fields Foundation for an evening honoring the 250th anniversary of the United States. With a cocktail hour, a historical reenactment, an author conversation, a book signing and a drag performance. From a captivating historical reenactment and thought-provoking author conversation to a complimentary book signing and a high-energy drag performance hosted by Thorgy Thor (RuPaul’s Drag Race), the evening brings together history, storytelling, and contemporary expression in a vibrant celebration of revolutions past and present! Enjoy cocktails and conversation as the evening opens with a captivating reenactment by Joseph Smith portraying General Baron von Steuben. The performance explores both von Steuben’s military legacy and his identity as a gay man navigating the complexities of 18th-century society. It all culminates in a high-energy drag performance celebrating modern revolutions in culture, identity, and visibility Attendees must be 18 or older.
Registration required.
• Where: 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay
• Time: 5 p.m.
• Contact: plantingfields.org or call (516) 922-9210
The Locust Valley Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual car show. View luxury cars, enjoy refreshments, enter raffles and enjoy live music.
• Where: Elm Street, Locust Valley
• Time: 10 a.m.
• Contact: LocustValleyChamberOfCommerce.com
The Northwinds Symphonic Band returns to Sands Point Preserve with “Broadway, Movies, and Light Classics.” Conductors Helen P. Bauer and Brandon Bromsey have prepared an entertaining program of instrumental and vocal selections from iconic film and Broadway music, including beloved tunes from animated films, classic Hollywood scores, jazz standards, and beloved Broadway productions. Highlights include music from “Cyberworld 3D, favorites from “Star Wars” and “Superman,” and “Salute to the Cinema,” a medley of classic movie themes. The concert also pays tribute to Louis Armstrong with Satchmo!, along with classic songs such as Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off” and “Accentuate the Positive,” performed with guest vocalists Karen Murphy and Joe Stroppel. Bring a picnic
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
lunch to enjoy on the grounds of the Preserve before the performance. $10.
• Where: 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point
• Time: 3 p.m
• Contact: sandspointpreserveconservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901
Nassau County Museum of Art hosts an engaging conversation with New York-based artist Dee Shapiro. She’s s known for her richly detailed abstract paintings that explore geometry, color, and the expressive possibilities of form. Here she discusses the works featured in NCMA’s exhibition
“250 Years of Art on Long Island,” examining how her abstract practice connects to the region’s artistic legacy and reflects broader themes of innovation, continuity, and creative identity of artists on Long Island. $20, $15 seniors, $10 students, members free. Limited seating and registration required.
• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor
• Time: 3 p.m
• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337
Ride in support of others. The 30th Anniversary Nassau Bicycle Challenge (formerly Nassau to Suffolk Bicycle Challenge) supports the work of the Kiwanis Club of North Shore Foundation. It supports charities such as Kiwanis Pediatric Trauma Center, Pediatric Lyme Disease Foundation, Kamp Kiwanis, NOSH, Boys and Girls Club and charities aligned with those of Kiwanis International “Serving the Children of the World, including Kiwanis’ signature programs of Klothes 4 Kids. The beautiful ride through the Gold Coast features picturesque vistas and and idyllic waterfront settings. Choose from a 25-mile loop with 1,060 feet of vertical climb or the more challenging 35-mile ride. Routes are clearly marked and ride is equipped with a rest stop. Snacks and water provided. Sponsorships also available. Online registration ends June 23, but walk-ins are welcome. Online registration is $50, day of is $60.
• Where: Starting at Harry Tappen Beach, Sea Cliff
• Time: Staggered starts, 8 a.m. or 8:30 a.m., rain or shine
• Contact: n2nbc.org
Having an event?
Items on the Calendar page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to kbloom@ liherald.com.
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.
x273
June 4, 2026
LEGAL NOTICE
PUBLIC NOTICE
VILLAGE OF UPPER BROOKVILLE ELECTION
Notice is hereby given that the general election of the Incorporated Village of Upper Brookville, Nassau County, New York, will be held at the Upper Brookville Village Hall, 24 Wolver Hollow Road, in said Village on June 16, 2026; that the hours of opening and closing the polls thereof shall be 12:00 Noon and 9:00 P.M., respectively, and that during such period of nine consecutive hours, the polls shall be kept open for the purpose of choosing and electing candidates for the offices listed below. The name and addresses of all those who have been duly nominated in accordance with the provisions of the Election Law for the Village office whose petition of nomination has been filed with the Village Clerk and the office and term of such office for which they have been so nominated are as follows: Office and Term Party Name and Address of Nominees
Mayor for a four year term
Citizens Association Elliot S. Conway 549 Chicken Valley Rd. Locust Valley, NY 11560
Trustee for a four year term Citizens Association Helen Solomon 735 Remsens Lane Oyster Bay, NY 11771
Trustee for a four year term Citizens Association Innis O’Rourke, III 1227 The Knoll Oyster Bay, NY 11771
Village Justice for a four year term
Dated: June 5, 2026
160594
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU.
EMIGRANT BANK, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER WITH EMIGRANT SAVINGS
BANK LONG ISLAND, Plaintiff against SEYMOUR COHEN, et al Defendant(s).
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on April 1, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court “Rain or Shine” located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on June 16, 2026 at 3:30 p.m.
ALL that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Brookville, Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, known and designated as SBL# 17,9,173. Said premises known as 11 EVANS DRIVE, GLEN HEAD a/k/a 11 EVANS DRIVE, BROOKVILLE, NY 11545
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index Number 610162/2023.
PAUL L. MELI, ESQ., Referee
Terenzi & Confusione
P.C.
Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 401 Franklin Avenue, Suite 304, Garden City, NY 11530 {* OYSTER BAY*} 160140
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Sale
Supreme Court: Nassau County Point 62 LLC v Carol Gordon et al. Defts Index
605518/2022 Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale
Citizens Association Beverly J. Bell 3 Salem Way Glen Head, NY 11545
filed and entered September 12, 2023 I will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Dr. Mineola NY 11501 on June 30, 2026 at 2:00 pm premises known as School District 306 a/k/a BA-6, Section 66, Block 124, Lot 61, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau, State of New York Sold subject to the terms of sale and filed judgment of foreclosure. Bank Checks Only, must be payable to the Referee for 25% of Bid Price, No Cash Accepted. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” Covid-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health and safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction.
Ronald J Ferraro, Esq., Referee 160441
LEGAL NOTICE
AVISO DE AUDIENCIA PÚBLICA Y REVOTACIÓN PRESUPUESTARIA DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR CENTRAL DE LOCUST VALLEY
LOCUST VALLEY, CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK
SE EMITE UN AVISO DE QUE se celebrará una audiencia pública de los votantes cualificados del Distrito Escolar Central de Locust Valley, condado de Nassau, Locust Valley, Nueva York, en el Auditorio de la Escuela
Secundaria/Escuela Secundaria Locust Valley, 99 Horse Hollow Road, Locust
Valley, Nueva York, el 8 de junio de 2026 a las 19:00 horas para la transacción de negocios según lo autorizado por la Ley de Educación, incluyendo los siguientes elementos:
1. Presentar a los votantes una declaración detallada (presupuesto propuesto) sobre la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para el año fiscal 2026-2027.
Y SE DA UN AVISO
ADICIONAL de que dicha Re-Votación Presupuestaria se celebrará el martes 16 de junio de 2026, entre las 6:00 a.m. y las 9:00 p.m. en los tres (3) distritos electorales, descritos a continuación, momento en el que las urnas estarán abiertas a votación mediante máquina de votación sobre el siguiente punto:
1. Adoptar el presupuesto anual del Distrito Escolar para el año fiscal 2026-2027 y autorizar que la parte requerida se recaude, mediante impuestos, sobre la propiedad sujeta a impuestos del Distrito.
Y SE DA UN AVISO
ADICIONAL de que cualquier residente del distrito podrá obtener una copia del estado de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para financiar el presupuesto del distrito escolar (el presupuesto propuesto para 2026-2027) por parte de cualquier residente del distrito entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 4:00 p.m. a partir del 2 de junio de 2026, excepto sábados, domingos o festivos en la Oficina del Distrito, 22 Horse Hollow Road, Locust Valley, Nueva York y en
y ha votado en una reunión anual o especial de distrito en los últimos cuatro (4) años naturales, es elegible para votar en esta revotación presupuestaria. Además, cualquier persona registrada en la Junta Electoral del Condado de Nassau bajo las disposiciones de la Ley Electoral tendrá derecho a votar sin necesidad de registro adicional. Todas las demás personas que deseen votar deben registrarse.
cada escuela del Distrito.
Y SE DA MÁS AVISO de que, conforme al Capítulo 258 de las Leyes de 2008, se añadió la Sección 495 a la Ley del Impuesto sobre la Propiedad Inmobiliaria y exige que el Distrito Escolar adjunte a su presupuesto propuesto un informe de exención. Dicho informe de exención, que también formará parte del presupuesto final, mostrará cuánto está exento de impuestos el valor total tasado en el registro final de evaluación utilizado en el proceso presupuestario, listará todos los tipos de exención concedidos identificados por autoridad legal y mostrará: (a) el impacto acumulativo de cada tipo de exención expresado ya sea como una cantidad en dólares de valor impuesto o como un porcentaje del valor catastral total sobre la Roll; (b) la cantidad acumulada que se espera recibir de los beneficiarios de cada tipo de exención como pagos en lugar de impuestos u otros pagos por servicios municipales; y (c) el impacto acumulativo de todas las exenciones concedidas. El informe de exención se publicará en cualquier tablón de anuncios mantenido por el Distrito para los avisos públicos y en cualquier sitio web gestionado por el Distrito. Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que el registro personal de votantes es obligatorio conforme a la Ley de Educación. Si un votante se ha registrado hasta ahora
Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL, el registro se realizará con el fin de registrar a todos los votantes cualificados del Distrito conforme a la §2014 de la Ley de Educación hasta el 11 de junio de 2026, entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 4:00 p.m. en todos los días regulares en los que la oficina del Secretario del Distrito esté en funcionamiento. El registro así preparado se archivará en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito y estará abierto para su inspección por cualquier votante cualificado del Distrito a partir del jueves 11 de junio de 2026, entre las 9:00 y las 16:00 horas entre semana, y cada día anterior al día fijado para la reelección presupuestaria, excepto los domingos, y los sábados solo con cita preestablecida, y en el/los colegio electoral el día de la reelección presupuestaria. Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que los votantes militares que no estén actualmente registrados pueden solicitar registrarse como votantes cualificados en el Distrito Escolar Central de Locust Valley solicitando y enviando una solicitud de registro al Secretario del Distrito en persona, por correo postal a la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito, 22 Horse Hollow Road, Locust Valley, NY 11560, por correo electrónico a aldunne@locustvalleys chools.org, o por fax al (516) 277-5098. La solicitud de registro puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar para recibir la solicitud de registro por correo, fax o correo electrónico. Los formularios de solicitud de registro de votantes militares deben recibirse en la oficina del Secretario del
Distrito a más tardar a las 17:00 horas del 2 de junio de 2026 para poder emitir una papeleta para la ReVotación Presupuestaria de 2026. Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL que aquellos votantes militares que sean votantes cualificados del Distrito Escolar Central de Locust Valley podrán solicitar personalmente al Secretario del Distrito una solicitud de voto militar, por correo postal a la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito, 22 Horse Hollow Road, Locust Valley, NY 11560, por correo electrónico a aldunne@locustvalleys chools.org, o enviar un fax al (516) 277-5098. En dicha solicitud, el votante militar puede indicar su preferencia por recibir la solicitud por correo, fax o correo electrónico. Un votante militar debe devolver la solicitud original de la papeleta militar por correo o en persona a la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito. Para que un votante militar reciba una papeleta militar, una solicitud válida debe recibirse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 17:00 horas del 2 de junio de 2026. Las solicitudes de papeleta militar recibidas conforme a lo anterior se tramitarán de la misma manera que una solicitud de papeleta no militar conforme a la Sección 2018-a de la Ley de Educación. La solicitud de la papeleta militar puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar para recibir la papeleta militar por correo, fax o correo electrónico.
Y SE DA MÁS AVISO: la papeleta militar original de un votante militar debe ser devuelto por correo o en persona a la oficina del Secretario del Distrito en 22 Horse Hollow Road, Locust Valley, NY 11560. Las papeletas militares deberán ser consultadas si el Secretario del Distrito las recibe antes del cierre de las urnas el 16 de junio de 2026 mostrando una marca de cancelación del Servicio Postal de los Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o una avalación fechada de recepción por parte de otra agencia del Gobierno de los
Estados Unidos; o recibida no más tarde de las 17:00 horas del 16 de junio de 2026 y firmada y fechada por el votante militar y un testigo, con una fecha que se determina no posterior al día anterior a la reelección presupuestaria.
Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que, conforme a la §2014 de la Ley de Educación del Estado de Nueva York, la Junta de Registro se reunirá el martes 16 de junio de 2026, entre las 6:00 a.m. y las 9:00 p.m. en cada uno de los tres (3) distritos electorales separados para preparar el Registro del Distrito Escolar que se utilizará en la Re-Votación Presupuestaria que se celebrará en 2026, y cualquier reunión especial de distrito que pueda celebrarse después de la preparación de dicho Registro, momento en el que cualquier persona pueda tener su nombre inscrito en dicho Registro, siempre que se conozca o demuestre que tiene derecho a votar en la elección escolar para la que dicho Registro esté preparado, o cualquier reunión especial de distrito celebrada después del 16 de junio de 2026.
Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que las solicitudes de papeletas por correo y por correo anticipado deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito al menos siete (7) días antes de la revotación presupuestaria si la papeleta debe enviarse al votante, o el día antes de la revotación presupuestaria, si la papeleta debe ser entregada personalmente al votante o a su agente designado. Al recibir una solicitud oportuna para una papeleta por correo anticipado o por correo por correo, el Secretario del Distrito enviará la papeleta a la dirección indicada en la solicitud como máximo seis (6) días antes de la votación. Las papeletas de voto por correo y anticipadas deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 17:00 horas del martes 16 de junio de 2026. Una lista de personas a las que se emitan papeletas por correo anticipado y por correo anticipado estará disponible para su inspección en la oficina
del Secretario del Distrito a partir del jueves 11 de junio de 2026, entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 4:00 p.m. los días laborables previos al día fijado para las elecciones anuales y el 19 de mayo de 2026. El día estaba marcado para las elecciones. Cualquier votante cualificado podrá, tras examinar dicha lista, presentar una impugnación por escrito de las cualificaciones como votante de cualquier persona cuyo nombre aparezca en dicha lista, exponiendo las razones de dicha impugnación. Cualquier impugnación por escrito será transmitida por el Secretario del Distrito o por un representante de la Junta de Educación a los inspectores de elección en la fecha de la revotación presupuestaria. No se puede impugnar porque el votante debió haber votado por correo.
DISTRITOS ELECTORALES ESCOLARES Y SE DA MÁS AVISO de que se han establecido Distritos Electorales en el Distrito Escolar. Los límites de los distritos electorales, adoptados por resolución de la Junta de Educación, y el lugar en cada distrito electoral para votar serán los siguientes: Distrito Electoral de Bayville Bayville Intermediate School, 50 Mountain Avenue, Bayville (descripción del distrito electoral: antiguo Distrito Escolar Union Free nº 6, Pueblo de Oyster Bay, Nueva York)
Distrito electoral de Brookville: Salón Comunitario de la Iglesia Reformada de Brookville, 2 Brookville Road, Brookville (descripción del distrito electoral: antiguo Distrito Escolar Libre de Union nº 3, Pueblo de Oyster Bay, Nueva York)
Distrito Electoral de Locust Valley Escuela Primaria Ann MacArthur, 100 Ryefield Road, Locust Valley (descripción del distrito electoral: antiguo Distrito Escolar Libre de Unión Nº 4, Pueblo de Oyster Bay, Nueva York)
Fecha: 1 de junio de 2026
Por orden de la JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN DE LA DISTRITO ESCOLAR CENTRAL DE LOCUST VALLEY
Alison
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING AND BUDGET RE-VOTE OF THE LOCUST VALLEY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
LOCUST VALLEY, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK
NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN, that a Public Hearing of the qualified voters of the Locust Valley Central School District, Nassau County, Locust Valley, New York will be held in the Auditorium of the Locust Valley Middle School/High School, 99 Horse Hollow Road, Locust Valley, New York on June 8, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. for the transaction of business as authorized by Education Law, including the following items:
1. To present to the voters a detailed statement (proposed budget) of the amount of money which will be required for the 2026-2027 fiscal year.
AND FURTHER NOTICE
IS HEREBY GIVEN that said Budget Re-Vote will be held on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. in the three (3) Election Districts, described below, at which time the polls will be open to vote by voting machine upon the following item:
1. To adopt the annual budget of the School District for the fiscal year 2026-2027 and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the District.
AND FURTHER NOTICE
IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a copy of the statement of the amount of money which will be required to fund the School District’s budget (the 2026-2027 proposed budget) may be obtained by any resident of the District between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. beginning June 2, 2026, except Saturday, Sunday or holidays at the District Office, 22 Horse Hollow Road, Locust Valley, New York and at each school house in the District. AND FURTHER NOTICE
IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to Chapter 258 of the Laws of
2008, Section 495 was added to the Real Property Tax Law, and requires the School District to attach to its proposed budget an exemption report. Said exemption report, which will also become part of the final budget, will show how much the total assessed value on the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt from taxation, list every type of exemption granted, identified by statutory authority, and show:
(a) the cumulative impact of each type of exemption expressed either as a dollar amount of assessed value or as a percentage of the total assessed value on the roll;
(b) the cumulative amount expected to be received from recipients of each type of exemption as payments in lieu of taxes or other payments for municipal services; and (c) the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted. The exemption report shall be posted on any bulletin board maintained by the District for public notices and on any website maintained by the District.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that personal registration of voters is required pursuant to Education Law. If a voter has heretofore registered and has voted at an annual or special district meeting within the last four (4) calendar years, he or she is eligible to vote at this budget re-vote. In addition, anyone registered with the Nassau County Board of Elections under the provisions of the Election Law shall be entitled to vote without further registration. All other persons who wish to vote must register. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, registration shall be conducted for the purpose of registering all qualified voters of the District pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law through June 11, 2026, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on all regular days during which the office of the District Clerk is in operation. The register so prepared will be filed in the Office of the District Clerk and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter
of the District beginning on Thursday, June 11, 2026, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on weekdays, and each day prior to the day set for the budget re-vote, except Sunday, and on Saturday by pre-arranged appointment only, and at the polling place(s) on the day of the budget re-vote.
AND FURTHER NOTICE
IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the Locust Valley Central School District by requesting and returning a registration application to the District Clerk in person, by mail to Office of the District Clerk, 22 Horse Hollow Road, Locust Valley, NY 11560, by email to aldunne@locustvalleys chools.org, or fax sent to (516) 277-5098. The request for the registration application may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the registration application by either mail, fax or email. Military voter registration application forms must be received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on June 2, 2026 in order to be issued a ballot for the 2026 Budget Re-Vote. AND FURTHER NOTICE
IS HEREBY GIVEN, those military voters who are qualified voters of the Locust Valley Central School District, may request an application for a military ballot from the District Clerk in person, by mail to Office of the District Clerk, 22 Horse Hollow Road, Locust Valley, NY 11560, by email to aldunne@locustvalleys chools.org, or fax sent to (516) 277-5098. In such request, the military voter may indicate their preference for receiving the application by mail, fax or email. A military voter must return the original military ballot application by mail or in person to the Office of the District Clerk. In order for a military voter to be issued a military ballot, a valid military ballot application must be received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on June 2, 2026 Military ballot applications received in accordance with the foregoing will
be processed in the same manner as a nonmilitary ballot application under Section 2018-a of the Education Law. The application for military ballot may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the military ballot by mail, fax or email.
AND FURTHER NOTICE
IS HEREBY GIVEN, a military voter’s original military ballot must be returned by mail or in person to the office of the District Clerk at 22 Horse Hollow Road, Locust Valley, NY 11560. Military ballots shall be canvassed if they are received by the District Clerk before the close of polls on June 16, 2026 showing a cancellation mark of the United States Postal Service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States Government; or received not later than 5:00 p.m. on June 16, 2026 and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is ascertained to be not later than the day before the budget re-vote.
AND FURTHER NOTICE
IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law of the State of New York, the Board of Registration will meet on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. at each of the three (3) separate election districts to prepare the Register of the School District to be used at the Budget Re-Vote to be held in 2026, and any special district meetings that may be held after the preparation of said Register, at which time any person may have their name placed on such Register provided they are known or prove to the satisfaction of such Board of Registration to be entitled to vote at the school election for which said Register is prepared, or any special district meeting held after June 16, 2026.
AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that applications for absentee and early mail ballots must be received by the District Clerk at least seven (7) days before the budget re-vote if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before
The Locust Valley Library recently celebrated the publication of “Voices of the Valley,” a new community poetry anthology created through the library’s yearlong Poet-in-residence program with local poet Patti Tana.
Over 70 community members came out for the event on Sunday, featuring readings by the contributing poets and a celebration of the collaborative effort it took to bring the anthology to life.
Over the past year, Tana led a range of poetry programs at the library, including the monthly Poetry Exchange, workshops with children, teens, adults and seniors, and one-on-one writing consultations. The resulting anthology is a multi-generational book featuring the works of nearly 60 poets, from first-
time writers to published and awardwinning authors.
“Libraries are where stories spark and where people find their voice,” Nadine Buccilli, the library’s director, wrote in a statement. “Over the past year, it has been incredible to watch poets of all ages and writing levels come together at the library to share their work, cheer on one another, and create something truly meaningful.”
Copies of “Voices of the Valley” are available to borrow at the library. For more information on this and other library programs, visit LocustValleyLibrary.org.
the budget-revote, if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or his/her designated agent. Upon receiving a timely request for a mailed absentee or early mail ballot, the District Clerk will mail the ballot to the address set forth in the application by no later than six (6) days before the vote. Absentee and early ballots must be received by the District Clerk not later than 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 16, 2026.
A list of persons to whom absentee and early mail ballots are issued will be available for inspection in the office of the District Clerk on and after Thursday, June11, 2026, between the
hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on weekdays prior to the day set for the annual election and on May 19, 2026, the day set for the election. Any qualified voter may, upon examination of such list, file a written challenge of the qualifications as a voter of any person whose name appears on such list, stating the reasons for such challenge. Any such written challenge shall be transmitted by the District Clerk or a designee of the Board of Education to the inspectors of election on the date of the budget re-vote. A challenge may not be made on the basis that the voter should have voted by absentee ballot.
SCHOOL ELECTION DISTRICTS AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that Election Districts have been established in the School District. The boundaries of the Election Districts, as adopted by resolution of the Board of Education, and the place in each election district for voting shall be as follows: Bayville Election District Bayville Intermediate School, 50 Mountain Avenue, Bayville (description of election district: former Union Free School District No. 6, Town of Oyster Bay, New York) Brookville Election District: Community Hall of the Brookville Reformed
Church, 2 Brookville Road, Brookville
(description of election district: former Union Free School District No. 3, Town of Oyster Bay, New York)
Locust Valley Election District
Ann MacArthur Primary School, 100 Ryefield Road, Locust Valley (description of election district: former Union Free School District No. 4, Town of Oyster Bay, New York)
Dated: June 1, 2026
By Order of the BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE LOCUST VALLEY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
Alison Dunne, District Clerk 160513
Recently Joe Cairo, former St. John’s basketball great Frank Alagia and I had the chance to meet Rudy Ruettiger, the inspiration for the cult classic film “Rudy,” based on Ruettiger’s improbable football “career” at Notre Dame. Ruettiger was in town to speak at Nassau Community College’s graduation.
Cairo and I are graduates of Notre Dame, and Alagia was heavily recruited by Notre Dame before deciding on St. John’s. We’re all longtime followers of college sports, and no collegiate sports program has had a more storied tradition than Notre Dame football.
The Fighting Irish have had, by last count, 94 All-Americans, 50 College Hall of Famers and seven Heisman Trophy winners. Ruettiger was none of these. He played for a total of less than 40 seconds, and made one tackle in Notre Dame’s final home game of the 1975 season, his senior year, against Georgia Tech. Because the Irish were leading 24-3 when Coach Dan Devine put Ruettiger
in the game, that tackle had zero impact on the game or the season.
Yet Rudy’s is one of the first names millions of sports fans will raise in a conversation not just about Notre Dame football, but college football in general. More than 50 years after his single moment of gridiron glory and 33 years after the film premiered, “Rudy” remains a cable television mainstay. Why?
Because Ruettiger’s story is what so many consider college sports, Notre Dame and the American Dream to be all about: hard work and a fighting spirit overcoming the odds.
The tale of his brief moment in the spotlight at Notre Dame is a cult classic.
Raised with 13 siblings in the very-blue-collar steel mill town of Joliet, Ill., Ruettiger demonstrated neither the academic nor the athletic skills to be accepted, let alone play football, at Notre Dame. He was dyslexic and underweight, a poor high school student and a mediocre football player. But his lifelong dream, like that of so many Catholic ethnic kids of his generation, was to play football at Notre Dame.
After serving in the Navy in the Vietnam War, Ruettiger began his quixotic quest to be admitted to Notre Dame. As the film recounts, after personal entreat-
ies to university priests and officials, he was admitted to its affiliate, Holy Cross Junior College, adjacent to the big school’s campus. He got a janitorial job and a place to sleep in the bowels of Notre Dame’s football facilities while studying at Holy Cross. Then, after several rejections and much tutoring, he was admitted to Notre Dame as a junior, and set out to make the football team as a walk-on.
He played on the practice team, going up against the varsity as it prepared for upcoming games but receiving no assurance that he would ever take the field at Notre Dame Stadium himself. But in that final game in 1975, he did.
As Ruettiger is the first to tell you, his story isn’t about football heroics. It’s about the American Dream of working hard to overcome hard times and disappointments without complaint or selfpity. It’s about Notre Dame’s commitment to academic and athletic excellence while staying loyal to lasting beliefs and principles. Its athletes had to measure up to the same academic requirements as other students, and experience the same living conditions. The players who were on the field on
Saturdays were in the classrooms, dining halls and dorms with other students during the week.
The day after our meeting, as I was writing this, Ruettiger called to continue our conversation. He and I are both concerned about how much things are changing in college sports. While college athletes are entitled to fair compensation, now, with the transfer portal, players sign lucrative contracts and can move from college to college one year to the next, season to season. Star players can transfer to play for a college team for one year, after barely setting foot on that school’s campus, and then play for a rival college the following year. This takes away the sense of identifying with players who share your experience — even so many Notre Dame “subway alumni” who have never attended the school but share its aspirations.
As a guy who has been through so much, however, Ruettiger has confidence that college sports will prevail, and he will continue to believe in his inspirational film and message. Whether the odds are great or small, whether in life or on the gridiron, old Notre Dame will win over all. Go, Irish!
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
Ihave just celebrated another birthday, and there is no denying that I am up there in years on this planet. I take every birthday seriously, but in my case they’re a reminder that none of us are going to be around forever, and some of us have only a short time left to share our experiences with our friends and family.
The world around us is moving at such a rapid pace that it’s impossible to keep up with the blizzard of news that we endure each day. As we prepare to celebrate the 250th anniversary of our wonderful country, I often think about the Founding Fathers and the challenges they faced to tell the nation about their vision of what they wanted America to become, and about our responsibilities as its citizens.
Benjamin Franklin offered us many words of wisdom during the proceedings of the Constitutional Convention. He famously remarked, on leaving the
convention, that he and his colleagues had given us “a republic, if you can keep it.” He further offered, “Only a virtuous people are capable of freedom. As nations become more corrupt and vicious, they have more need of masters.”
WFranklin argued that self-governance relies directly on the moral character of its citizens. And lastly, he stated, “This Constitution can only end in despotism … when the people shall become so corrupted.” Those remarks were a warning that the system would fail if the people lost their capacity for self-governance. That’s a lot of wisdom to digest, and it takes time to unpack all of it.
advance his personal agenda.
hat would he think of our Congress, and a slush fund, and unapproved wars?
If I had to choose one example of how we have failed to heed Franklin’s words, it is the U.S. Congress. Starting around the fourth grade, history teachers tell us that we have three “equal” branches of government. That used to refer to Congress, the Supreme Court and the president. But today we have a neutered Congress, a feuding Supreme Court and a president who has successfully taken control of the levers of government to
I rarely comment about the happenings in the Republican Party, because I have enough issues with my fractured Democratic Party. But watching television the other night, I felt some sadness about Texas Sen. John Cornyn’s primary defeat. I relate to Cornyn because of my 23 years in the State Legislature. Government is only as good as the people who serve in it, and Cornyn, a Republican, was a hardworking, productive senator. I feel the same way about Louisiana’s Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy, who incurred the ire of President Trump for voting to impeach him after the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. Cassidy, a physician, contributed much to the Senate, but also lost a primary last month.
What would Franklin think about the $1.776 billion slush fund created by Trump to reward the Jan. 6 rioters for their misdeeds? A number of Republican senators who have been silent on so many issues have spoken out against this money grab. Think of the significance of this concept. All of the money
given out will remain confidential. There are no restrictions on who can apply. People who assaulted Capitol policemen could walk away with taxpayer money.
The people who crafted our Constitution did so with the hope that we would avoid future wars, and only start them with the consent of Congress. The president has called the Iran war a “military operation” and a “skirmish,” but it has dramatically depleted our supply of sophisticated weapons. Depriving Iran of a nuclear weapon is important, but when the conflict is over, Iran will be better off, and capable of waging terror in the region for years to come.
Benjamin Frankin, and the many other signatories to the Constitution, hoped that we would, in time, become a better nation. These are the thoughts that occupy me as I enjoy another birthday. I worry not for me. I worry for my children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. We owe them a more perfect union.
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. Comments? jkremer@liherald.com.
We all know the dangers of leaving your child in a parked car, especially in the summer. But what most people don’t realize is the deadly consequences that can result from leaving your pet in a parked car, too.
This danger is not exaggerated; it’s science.
A parked car acts like a greenhouse, trapping heat inside that builds with alarming speed. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the temperature inside a vehicle parked on an 85-degree day can reach 104 degrees in just 10 minutes, and within an hour can soar more than 40 degrees above the outdoor temperature.
Even on days that feel merely warm — not scorching — the heat in a sealed vehicle can become lethal.
Many pet owners still cling to dangerous myths. Parking in the shade isn’t enough. Cracking the windows doesn’t offer meaningful relief. Leaving water in the car changes little. Once heat becomes trapped, the temperature rises rapidly and relentlessly.
What makes the situation even more dangerous is that animals can’t cool
To the Editor:
I have lived on Long Island for many years, and it’s part of my DNA. I was shocked to read the op-ed in the May 14-20 issue, “Battery energy storage isn’t just an experiment. It works,” by Nick Guariglia, the advocacy manager of the New York Offshore Wind Alliance. It was a completely one-sided commentary by an insider to the battery storage proposals floating around Long Island.
One basic, and most important, concern Mr. Guariglia didn’t mention is the lack of technology for avoiding lithium battery fires. The fires that have occurred in the U.S. and around the world caused by overheating energy-storage batteries are well documented. Fire departments, and fire marshals, across the U.S. acknowledge the lack of knowledge, appropriate tools and training of volunteer firefighters that’s necessary to manage these fires. Firefighters simply depend on hours of watering the batteries until the fire is extinguished.
This archaic process of putting out a fire costs thousands of gallons of expensive water, and the chemicals that burning lithium-based batteries release into our communities, and our Long Island waterways, are a
towns where these bat
themselves the way humans do. People sweat efficiently. Dogs and cats rely primarily on panting. But when the air surrounding them is already hotter than their bodies, panting can actually worsen the problem by drawing in even hotter air. Heatstroke can occur in just minutes.
Certain kinds of pets face even greater risks. Older and overweight animals, and short-muzzled breeds such as pugs and bulldogs, struggle to regulate body temperature under normal conditions. Inside a hot car, they can quickly suffer brain damage, organ failure or death.
The warning signs of heatstroke are often easy to spot: heavy panting, frantic behavior and excessive drooling are early signs of distress. Bright red gums, vomiting, stumbling or collapse signal a medical emergency. At that point, every second matters.
If a pet appears to be overheating, it should immediately be moved to a cooler area and relieved with cool — not icecold — water while emergency veterinary care is sought. Ice water can shock the body and worsen the situation.
Unfortunately, many tragedies occur because owners convince themselves they will “only be gone a minute.” But a
quick stop in a store, coffee shop or pharmacy can turn deadly if a line forms or there’s another distraction.
If you see a pet left in a car, call 911. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
The issue is serious enough that New York, and many other states, have laws addressing animals left in dangerous conditions inside vehicles.
New York Agriculture and Markets Law Section 353-d prohibits confining a companion animal in a vehicle during extreme heat or cold when doing so puts the animal in imminent danger of death or serious physical injury. The law authorizes police officers, firefighters, emergency responders and humane officers to remove the endangered animal if necessary. A pet owner can also face criminal cruelty charges if an animal is injured or dies after being left in a hot car.
But laws alone cannot solve the problem. Public awareness and personal responsibility matter most. The safest choice is also the simplest: If your pet can’t come inside with you, leave it at home. No errand, appointment or convenience is worth risking your four-legged best friend’s life.
i’ve been hearing a consistent and concerning message from constituents, judges, hospital leaders and advocates across my district and throughout New York: Our state doesn’t have enough nonprofit guardians to meet the growing need.
Guardianship is meant to be a last resort — a carefully tailored legal intervention used only when necessary to protect those who cannot safely manage essential decisions about their health, finances or living arrangements. When it works as intended, it helps people stabilize their lives, access critical services and live safely in the least restrictive settings possible.
But too often, I’m hearing about what happens when no guardian is available. Judges are struggling to identify qualified guardians for people who lack financial resources or family members able to serve. Hospital administrators and discharge planners tell me about patients who are medically ready to leave but remain stuck in beds because no one is legally authorized to arrange home care, apply for benefits or consent to placement. Families and service providers are left trying to navigate an
already complex system without the authority they need to help.
This isn’t an abstract problem. It is a systems challenge with real consequences for health care capacity, court efficiency and the well-being of vulnerable New Yorkers. across the state, patients who no longer require acute medical care are remaining in hospitals for months because a guardian cannot be identified. Nearly all of these people have limited financial resources, and many have no family able or willing to step in. Without a legally authorized decision-maker, even routine steps toward discharge become impossible.
unevenly distributed across the state. Existing providers are doing extraordinary work, often serving thousands of New Yorkers, but many programs are operating at or near capacity. In some regions, courts have few, if any, nonprofit guardians available to appoint.
we don’t have enough nonprofit guardians, and many programs are full.
I’ve heard directly from providers about the toll this takes. Extended hospital stays can lead to isolation, functional decline, infections and other preventable complications. Hospitals aren’t designed to serve as longterm residential placements, yet that is effectively what they become when no guardian is available.
The financial impact is also significant. a single hospital bed can cost more than $7,000 per day. When patients remain hospitalized solely due to the absence of a guardian, it strains our health care system and is an unnecessary costs for taxpayers.
We don’t have enough nonprofit guardians, and those we do have are
teries are proposed to be installed.
Let’s be clear: Our communities are not opposed to innovative ideas for generating much-needed added energy, but that shouldn’t come with a high risk of exposing our children and families to lithium batteries that have not yet proven to be manageable, but have proven to be fire-prone when they overheat. Let’s not ignore these facts and offer one-sided comments to the public.
Mr. Guariglia also failed to mention the critical nature of base-load generation, the foundation of consistent and reliable energy production. Before considering additional supplementary energy sources such as wind and solar, we must strengthen our existing power generation structure by repowering the E.F. Barrett, Northport and Port Jefferson power plants, and increasing their efficiency by converting them to combined-cycle-generation capacity from existing single-cycle generation. This will almost double their power output.
We must expand the capacity of the upstate Nine Mile Point nuclear power plants 1 and 2. Utilize the availability of clean natural gas to New York state via the new pipeline known as the North East Supply Enhancement project to supply Long Island plants. Take full advantage of the existing cross-Sound cables that transport energy to and from Long Island, as well as the Neptune cable, from Sayreville, N.J., that transmits electricity generated in the Midwest to Long Island.
Funding the above must take precedence over expending resources on inconsistent power generation from wind and solar projects or risky battery energy storage systems.
GEOrGE P. POMBar President, Glen Head-Glenwood LandingGreenvale Civic Council
Editors’ note: Nick Guariglia’s op-ed did not appear in all print editions of the Herald, but can be found at liherald.com.
To close the “guardianship gap,” I am sponsoring the Good Guardianship act in the assembly. This bill would establish a statewide initiative of nonprofit guardians that would allow us to build on existing expertise while expanding services to underserved areas. It would help courts make timely appointments, support consistent standards of care, and reduce unnecessary delays that ripple across systems. In addition, the legislation is structured to allow the state to support implementation through future budget appropriations and existing nonprofit guardianship infrastructure.
This approach also aligns with the goals of Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Master Plan for aging, which calls for coordinated support that allows older adults and people with disabilities to live safely and with dignity in their communities.
Nonprofit guardians play an essential role in that continuum of care, coordinating medical treatment, securing stable housing and preventing financial
exploitation. Their work often helps people avoid unnecessary institutionalization.
Let me be clear: Investing in nonprofit guardianship isn’t about expanding guardianship unnecessarily. It must always remain a last resort. But when it is needed, the system must be able to respond — responsibly, equitably and without delay.
This initiative would alleviate prolonged hospital stays, delayed transitions to community care and fragmented decision-making. It is also a matter of fairness. access to a qualified guardian should not depend on where someone lives, what resources they have or whether a family member is available.
If we fail to act, these gaps will continue to place pressure on our courts, our health care system, and families already navigating difficult circumstances. If we act, we have an opportunity to strengthen accountability, improve efficiency, and ensure that vulnerable New Yorkers receive the support they need.
as the legislative session’s conclusion draws near, I urge my colleagues and the governor to support a statewide initiative of nonprofit guardians. When guardianship is necessary, it should work as intended — protecting rights, promoting independence and helping people move from crisis toward stability. This investment will help us get there.
Charles Lavine represents the 13th Assembly District.
Beautifully renovated Colonial nestled in the highly desirable Hill Terrace area, offering the perfect blend of classic charm and modern updates. $1,265,000.
75
This 1888 Colonial blends timeless character with a cozy fireplace, home office, and sunlit bedrooms. Outside, enjoy a detached garage and patio with a fire pit. $849,000.
Price: $898,000
The Langone Team combines deep local roots with a modern, multigenerational approach to real estate. With over 800 career sales, these trusted North Shore experts leverage decades of experience to provide unparalleled service locally and across Long Island.
John Langone
Associate Real Estate Broker
c.516.901.9116 | johnlangone@danielgale.com
Deana Langone-Roper
Real Estate Salesperson
c.516.369.3144 | deanalangoneroper@danielgale.com
Jaime Vitale
Real Estate Salesperson
c.516.644.9514 | jaimevitale@danielgale.com