HERALD ROCKVILLE CENTRE
Honoring Pope Francis Page 3
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By KElSIE RADZISKI
kradziski@liherald.com
Students at Covert Elementary School were given a heartfelt lesson in compassion when representatives from Last Hope Animal Rescue in Wantagh visited to speak about the importance of adopting shelter pets and supporting local rescues.
Denise McDermott, a volunteer with Last Hope, brought her rescue dog Madison, a one-year-old golden retriever, to the school on April 23 to help introduce the students to the world of animal rescue. The students all cheered as Madison smiled and wagged her tail on the stage next to McDermott.
McDermott and another volunteer, Dan Drucker, used a slideshow presentation to explain Last Hope’s mission, which works to rescue abandoned, sick and stray cats and dogs and match them with loving homes.
“Some dogs and cats end up in shelters or on the streets because they were lost, and the rescues help
ContinuED on PAgE 5
South Side High student volunteers receive awards Applause and paws at Covert Elementary
By KElSIE RADZISKI kradziski@liherald.com
Four students from South Side High School have been honored with the prestigious Presidential Volunteer Service Award, issued by the White House, recognizing their extraordinary dedication to helping others through hundreds of hours of community service.
Junior Molly Reardon and sophomores Olivia Mayerhofer, Anneliese Piccioni and Lyla Murphy were recognized for their work in programs that support children, people with disabilities and families in
need. Through their efforts in organizations such as Camp Anchor, Best Buddies and local recreational programs, the students have built meaningful connections and had life-changing experiences.
For Mayerhofer, volunteering at Camp Anchor, a program in Lido Beach for children and adults with special needs, was a natural step. Inspired by her cousins, who also volunteer there, and a cousin who has Down syndrome, Mayerhofer wanted to give back to the special-needs community in a hands-on way. Over the past two summers, she has worked with campers with develop
mental disabilities, spending her days at the beach, in the pool and at activity centers, all while bonding with a new camper buddy each day.
The relationships she has built at Camp Anchor, Mayerhofer said, have been the most rewarding part of the experience, and she looked forward to going back each day.
“You go in thinking that you’re volunteering to help them, but you have so much fun and learn so much from them,” she said of the campers.
Mayerhofer said that the experience has taught her the importance of treating everyone equally, regardless of their
differences, and she plans to continue volunteering at Camp Anchor in the future.
Reardon has also spent her past two summers — and three winters — volunteering with Camp Anchor, which is open year-round with different seasonal programs, logging more than 450 hours over the past three years. Working with chil-
dren and young adults with special needs, Reardon has led games, music sessions and drama activities, offering support and companionship to her assigned camper each day.
Her favorite part of the program, she said, is the joy the campers bring, and she has developed strong communica -
Courtesy Rockville Centre school district
Denise McDermott, far right, Dan Drucker, second from right, and Madison the golden retriever joined teacher Patrice Camastro, left, to give a ‘paw-some’ presentation at Covert Elementary School on April 23.
Asthma program helps people breathe easier
By KELSIE RADZISKI kradziski@liherald.com
With asthma affecting more than 25 million Americans, Mercy Hospital in Rockville Centre has launched a free program to help people with asthma manage the condition and avoid unnecessary emergency room visits.
The Asthma Self-Management Program, led by Alphonso Quiñones, Director of Respiratory Therapy, and respiratory therapist Brenda De Aza Santana, offers personalized education, resources and follow-up care at no cost to participants regardless of insurance status.
“The goal of our program is to help patients learn the necessary skills and techniques to control their asthma,” Quiñones said. “It can’t be cured, but it can be controlled.”
Asthma is a chronic disease that causes the airways to swell and narrow, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath and persistent cough. Though common, it can be life-threatening if not managed correctly. More than 3,500 people die of asthma-related complications each year in the U.S., according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology.
At Mercy Hospital, the program aims to close a critical gap in care: education.
People with asthma often receive medications but not the guidance they need to use them properly, De Aza Santana said. The program addresses this by offering one-on-one sessions with a certified asthma educator.
“I gather information about what their needs are, because it might not be the same for everybody, and I look at
them as a whole,” De Aza Santana said. Each participant receives hands-on training in inhaler use, personalized asthma action plans and tools like spacers and peak flow meters to monitor lung function. The program also helps people access medications through the hospital’s pharmacy department, thanks to a grant from the Mother
Cabrini Health Foundation.
The first visit is mainly for assessment, De Aza Santana said, so she can determine the individual’s needs. Each participant is sent home with a personal assessment to keep track of their symptoms for the three weeks until their second session. After that, sessions are typically every two weeks, and the program can continue for up to 20 sessions, depending on interest and need. Baseline asthma control tests are conducted regularly to track progress, and De Aza Santana works closely with primary care physicians to adjust treatment if needed.
The emphasis on the program is on education to properly equip people with the knowledge on how to treat their asthma correctly.
“They have the inhalers, they have effective medication, they have the provider that would prescribe them, but they don’t have that education piece,” Quiñones said, “and that’s where our program came into place.”
To join the program, people need a referral from their primary care provider, and Mercy’s team can help facilitate the process. Sessions take place at Mercy Hospital, 1000 North Village Avenue, Rockville Centre.
Appointments can be scheduled by calling (516) 705-1530. No insurance is required.
Herald file photo
Mercy Hospital offers a free Asthma Self-Management Program for people with asthma to learn how to manage their symptoms and treatments.
St. Agnes Cathedral mourns Pope Francis
By Rei Wolfsohn Correspondent
The parishioners of St. Agnes Cathedral of Rockville Center were deeply moved as they mourned the death of beloved Pope Francis together.
Pope Francis died on Easter Monday at age 88 after serving as pope since 2013. At the April 28 memorial service, the bishop, the Most Reverend John O. Barres, gave a homily in his honor and the parishioners sang along to hymns of prayer and mourning.
Luz Batres stood outside of the cathedral after the service to witness the magnificence of the church leaders welcoming parishioners back to the world outside. She had just attended the service, but wanted to get a unique angle on the exit.
“It’s so sad,” Batres said. “He was a very good person. He wanted the best for people. He prayed for peace. That’s what we need, peace inside of us and peace in the world.”
Batres had tears in her eyes as she reflected on the service.
“It was so pretty,” Batres said. Pope Francis was an avid advocate for environmental justice, social equality and respect for all. He celebrated these qualities during his life, since the moment he was ordained as a Jesuit priest in 1969.
He was significantly progressive, compared to both his predecessors and those in the church who spoke out against his acceptance of several marginalized groups. He came from outside of Europe, the first pope to do so in centuries.
Parishioners gathered at St. Agnes Cathedral to pay respects to the pope.
freshness of the gospel — both its freshness when it was first given to the people, and how Pope Francis brought in new freshness as he moved the church toward the future.
“I thought it was absolutely beautiful,” Maureen Miedreich, another attendee, said. “Very reverent. The bishop spoke wonderfully about Pope Francis and the good things that he did for the church.”
At one point during the service, the parishioners and visitors were asked to give each other the sign of peace. Some hugged, some kissed, but most held up the two fingers of the peace sign.
One comfort the parishioners found in the service was the operatic choir.
They sang hymns such as “Abide with Me,” “Agnus Dei” and “Pie Jesu.”
“It’s definitely a sad moment for our church, considering all the progress that his leadership gave the church, sending us in a new direction,” Angie Phelan, who attended the service, said.
“They did a beautiful job,” Phelan said. “And the choir was amazing.”
The homily focused on the Catholic social justice that Pope Francis worked on throughout his life, especially as pope. Barres said he considered the holy family of Mary, Joseph and Jesus to be refugees.
The theme of the homily was the
Raissa Silva isn’t from Rockville Center, but she found comfort in being able to mourn with the locals who welcomed her.
“I feel very, very sad,” Silva said. “I feel very soon we’ll call him to pray for us and this makes me feel less sad. I loved him so much. He was an inspiration.”
Tim Baker/Herald photos
The Most Reverend John O. Barres led the memorial service in honor of Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday.
The mass, led by Barres, evoked many feelings from attendees, from sadness to comfort.
Priests mourned alongside parishioners during the moving service.
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Legacy Planning
Some thirty-five years ago your writer was taught that estate planning is about getting your assets to whom you want, when you want, and the way you want, with the least amount of taxes and legal fees possible.
In the intervening time, we have learned that estate planning is more — it is legacy planning. Legacy has two meanings (1) the assets you leave, and (2) the impression you leave. Your assets will dissipate, but your impression will endure. Were you kind and generous? Were you forgiving and grateful? Were you compassionate and did you bring light into the world, despite your setbacks.
Our readers have surely noticed over the years that these sponsored columns are not only about law, but just as often about how to become a better human being. Much of it has been learned from our interactions with clients. A client once asked if I had a degree in psychology. I answered yes, I have a Masters. When she asked where I got it, I said sitting behind this desk eight hours a day for the last thirty-five years!
Observing people, you learn that perspective is everything. We consider it part of our calling to provide clients with different perspectives with which to view personal and family matters. It is not difficult to see how looking at a situation from a different perspective can completely change the way we see the world. A client came in relating how furious she was that her daughter’s abusive husband used her daughter to obtain his degree and then asked for a divorce and move out. Yes, I said, but if it was my daughter and she had an abusive husband I would be thrilled that he had move out. Oh, the client said, “I never thought of that!” Her view of the matter had shifted considerably. Thoreau put it, “It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see.”
Working on oneself to become a better person is a classic win/win situation. Our lives become better as do those of everyone we come into contact with. The Dalai Lama says we are all selfish but we can engage in “enlightened selfishness”, doing better by others for our own sake.
Crime watCh
assault
On April 24, a motorist reported they were assaulted by another motorist in the vicinity of N. Village Avenue and Lakeview Avenue after a traffic dispute.
On April 26, a customer of BP gas station reported they were punched in the face by an unknown person.
menaCing
On April 25, a motorist reported they were threatened by another motorist with a knife in the vicinity of N. Village Avenue and Sunrise Highway after a traffic dispute.
leaving the sCene of an aCCident
On April 21, a motorist reported their vehicle was struck by another vehicle, which fled the scene, while driving on Maple Avenue.
On April 22, a motorist reported their vehicle was struck by another vehicle, which fled the scene, while parked in a Sunrise Highway parking lot.
unusual inCident
On April 24, a Rockville Centre resi-
dent reported someone altered a check they mailed through the U.S. Mail.
On April 26, a customer of Bank of America reported someone made bank transactions using their account without authorization.
arrest
On April 23, Milton Primer, 58, of Freeport, was arrested and charged with open arrest warrants for False Personation, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle and Vehicle and Traffic Law Offenses after an investigation by detectives.
On April 25, Jose Bien-Aime, 55, of Far Rockaway, was arrested and charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Operation of a Motor Vehicle Using a Portable Electronic Device and Vehicle and Traffic Law Offenses after an investigation by detectives.
traffiC safety
From April 7 to 10, the Traffic Enforcement Unit carried out intensified, targeted patrols at high-risk areas in the Village as part of the “Put the Phone Away or Pay” campaign. A total of 26 summonses were issued for use of portable electronic devices and other Vehicle and Traffic Law offenses.
People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.
fire watCh
The Rockville Centre Fire Department is always looking for help in serving our community. If you live here or in any one of the adjacent communities and are interested in joining or just
Apr. 20 – Apr. 27
General Alarms – 11
Still Alarms – 4
Rescue – 4
Aided Cases (Ambulance) – 38
Mutual Aid Fire – 1
Mutual Aid Rescue – 0
Mutual Aid Ambulance – 0
Total – 58
have questions, please visit any firehouse on Sunday mornings and speak with one of the officers or call (516) 6789320. For emergencies dial 911 or (516) 766-0400.
Year To Date
General Alarms – 171
Still Alarms – 92
Rescue – 51
Aided Cases (Ambulance) – 868
Mutual Aid Fire – 26
Mutual Aid Rescue – 0
Mutual Aid Ambulance – 3
Total – 1211
rockville centre
Students collected supplies, made posters
find them new families who will take care of them,” McDermott told the students. “They need new homes, need families to love them and teach them what to do, just like your teachers here teach you, you guys teach them at home.”
Throughout the presentation, students learned what it means to adopt a rescue animal and how the students, even at a young age, can help make a difference.
“Giving a dog love and affection is very important to them,” McDermott told the crowd. “They need that too, just as much as we do.”
Patrice Camastro, a teacher at Covert who helped organize the event, shared her personal connection to the cause and to the shelter, explaining how she found her new dog, Trixie, there.
“This rescue is close to me because my dog died after 17 years and then I found my Trixie,” she said. “There are so many other animals out there that need help and need homes.”
Students had also been busy in the weeks leading up to the visit, collecting a wide range of donations for Last Hope, including pet beds, food, toys, leashes and collars. All the donations together filled eight large cardboard boxes, which McDermott and Drucker brought to the shelter. They also raised money to buy gift cards to Petco, Tar-
get, PetSmart and Walmart for the shelter to purchase supplies they need.
Kindergarteners also designed posters with their “fifth grade buddies” to advertise the schoolwide pet supply drive, using stickers, markers and printed pictures of animals to decorate. The presentation ended with encouragement for students to consider helping out shelters or volunteering with
local animal organizations in the future. McDermott explained that there are many ways to support local animal rescues, including volunteering, donating toys or food and spreading awareness. Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts can get involved by building items for animals or organizing donation drives, she also pointed out, offering ways to give support.
The students also got the opportunity to ask McDermott questions, which ranged from “How many dogs and cats does Last Hope get in a year” — about 300 dogs and 600 cats, she answered — and “What is Madison’s favorite food to eat?” — chicken and cheese.
Last Hope, a nonprofit animal rescue organization, is dedicated to saving stray and abandoned animals while promoting responsible pet ownership and controlling pet overpopulation through spay/neuter programs, according to the website. Since its founding in 1981 by Janet Brasco and Gerry Walsh, the group has grown to more than 600 volunteers and supporters, operating out of its Wantagh Adoption Center and placing hundreds of cats and dogs into carefully screened homes each year.
Over the decades, Last Hope has expanded its outreach with free or lowcost veterinary services, vaccination clinics, and an extensive feral cat spay/ neuter program known as Fix-A-Feral, which has altered more than 10,000 cats in the past decade. The organization has also engaged in public education, pet adoption events and partnerships with local shelters, all with the goal of improving the lives and futures of animals on Long Island.
Visit LastHopeAnimalRescue.org to learn more.
Courtesy Rockville Centre school district Camastro had her kindergarten students design promotional posters for the two-week pet supply drive leading up to the assembly.
MADISON WADE
Plainedge Senior Lacrosse
IT HAS BEEN A red-hot April for Wade and the Plainedge girls’ lacrosse team. The Red Devils have won eight of their last night games, with Wade serving as one of the integral parts of the success. The third-year varsity player is also a third-year captain and helping Plainedge’s offense fire. Entering this week’s action, Wade ranked near the top of Nassau County in goals with 42. She netted at least three goals in eight of the first 11 games.
GAMES TO WATCH
Thursday, May 1
Boys Lacrosse: Baldwin at Freeport 5 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Calhoun at Carey 5 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: East Meadow at Clarke 5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Sewanhaka at Freeport 5
Girls Lacrosse: Mepham at Bethpage 5
Boys Lacrosse: Elmont at Uniondale 5 p.m.
Friday, May 2
Flag Football: Lynbrook at East Rockaway 5 p.m.
Flag Football: Bethpage at Long Beach 5 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Farmingdale at Massapequa 5 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: South Side at Wantagh 5 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: South Side at North Shore 5 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Lynbrook at MacArthur 7 p.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Long Beach at Massapequa 7 p.m.
Saturday, May 3
Softball: Uniondale at Elmont 10 a.m.
Softball: North Shore at Baldwin 10 a.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Lynbrook at Mepham 10 a.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Calhoun at Oceanside 10 a.m.
Flag Football: Freeport at Oceanside 11 a.m.
Girls Lacrosse: Clarke at Division 12 p.m.
Boys Lacrosse: Island Trees at Hewlett 3 p.m.
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a spring sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
South Side in heart of grind
By DLYAN BUTLER sports@liherald.com
Considering the 27 players who graduated from last year’s state championship team, Steve DiPietro is “pleasantly surprised” that the neophyte South Side boys’ lacrosse team won seven of its first nine games of the season.
But the Cyclones now are in the midst of what their coach considers midterms, which started with an 8-7 loss at Cold Spring Harbor last Friday and continues with upcoming matchups against Syosset and Wantagh, which could be a preview of the Nassau Class C championship game.
“They’re quality programs, both well-coached, and we have a long history of playing them every year. So those are good benchmarks to see where we’re at,” DiPietro said. “Even the Wantagh game, we kind of look at it as a firstround game. They’ll see us a little bit. We’ll see them a little bit, but our goal is to see them in the finals, and that’ll be the one that counts.”
The early season tests have been overwhelmingly positive, a 15-11 win over Yorktown and its Virginia-bound goalie Hunter Messatesta raised expectations.
“To be able to come out and score 15 goals in that game, I think really kind of opened our eyes a little bit to what we’re possibly capable of,” DiPietro said. “But we’ve been inconsistent at times as well. We knew that was going to be part of the process.”
That inconsistency was evident in a 6-4 loss to Farmingdale, where the Cyclones learned valuable lessons about decision-making in shot selection.
Leading the way offensively has been Luke Mullen. The sophomore has 32 goals and 10 assists on the season, with Cullen Lynch, who was a complementary piece on last year’s senior-laden side, has contributed 19 goals and nine assists as the second-leading scorer.
And Brendan Vetter, who tore his ACL in his freshman year, is an athletic distributor and initiator for the Cyclones on attack. The junior has nine
goals and 12 assists.
Like last year’s team, these Cyclones are sharing the ball, evident from 62.1 percent of assisted goals.
“That was one of the themes last year, even with all the personalities and experience and talent that we had last year, one of the best things about it was that no one cared who scored, they were very unselfish with the ball,” DiPietro said.
“We kind of stressed that in the offseason with these guys that the more we share it and we’re not running through three guys, we’re not trying to make it about me and everybody gets opportunities, and so far they’ve been very good at that.”
Cole Schiefelbein and Jack DiSarlo have shared the cage, and both goaltenders have impressed.
And while Jack Mullin, who fractured his foot against Calhoun on April 11 and is out for the remainder of the season, is missed, there have been strong contributions on the defensive side.
Leading the charge there has been John Muscarella and John Kufta, while Mike Benfante, Colin Kenny have been steady and strong defensive midfielders.
“We always say our number is seven, we don’t want to give up more than that,” DiPietro said. “Outside of the [three] losses we had, I think we’ve done a pretty good job of that.”
Michelle Ebel/Herald
Despite losing 27 members of their state championsip team, the Cyclones and Cullen Lynch are off to an impressive start.
Girls spent their summers at Camp Anchor
fifth-grade girls. Having attended the program herself as a child, Murphy said it was meaningful to return in a leadership role.
T“Working with the campers every day, it’s important to make sure you’re giving them the best day ever,” Reardon said. “It’s important to communicate with what they want, and if they’re having a problem, deal with it on your own rather than asking for help.”
Piccioni volunteered at Camp Anchor last summer, and during the winter at a local bowling program for children with disabilities at Maple Lanes, in Rockville Centre. She described the experience at the camp as lifechanging, and said that all the volunteer work she did opened her eyes to the joy and energy the campers, and bowlers, bring with them every day.
he most impactful thing I learned was just to see how much fun these kids can have.
Anneliese Piccioni sophomore, South Side High School
“The most impactful thing I learned was just to see how much fun these kids can have,” Piccioni said, “and to see how much volunteers and staff can make them have so much fun there.”
Murphy volunteered for the Rockville Centre Recreation Center’s Summer Breakout program, spending two summers mentoring a group of fourth- and
“I just remember, whenever I would go there, it was such a fun environment for me in the summer when I was younger,” she recalled, “and I wanted to create that for other kids that went there.”
Murphy said that volunteering taught her patience and how to manage interpersonal dynamics, especially among energetic girls. She returned to work with the same group a second year, which she said helped her build lasting relationships.
The Presidential Volunteer Service Award honors Americans who inspire others to engage in volunteer service.
At the regional awards ceremony at the Ethical Humanist Society of Long Island in Garden City on April 6, the girls were presented with certificates and medals.
“We are so proud of these four exceptional students for representing our school in such a positive way,” South Side High Principal Patrick Walsh said. “Their commitment to service underscores how dedicated they are to serving their community.”
Courtesy Sara Reardon
olivia mayerhofer, far left, anneliese piccioni, Lyla murphy and molly reardon, all from South Side High School, were presented with the presidential Volunteer Service award on april 6.
The Southern State at 100: a divided legacy
History, and real or imagined inequity, collide on 25 miles of one of Long Island’s busiest roadways
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com
First in a series on the Southern State Parkway.
One bright Saturday afternoon in June 2020, a group of protesters stood near the Robert Moses statue in Babylon, calling for its removal. Their rallying cry: The “Master Builder” was not worthy of such recognition. He was, instead, a racist who, among other things, designed the Southern State Parkway to keep buses carrying low-income families from traveling from New York City to Long Island — and its beaches.
The group had collected more than 13,000 signatures in support of its cause.
major roadway expansion undertaken by New York state that also included the Northern State and Sagtikos parkways. Today, it is a 25.3-mile long roadway that stretches from the Queens-Nassau border to Heckscher State Park in East Islip.
Wayne Horsley, a former regional director of Long Island’s state parks and a local historian, countered at the time that the often aired claims against Moses, “a son of the village,” have never been proven.
What has been proven, however, is the impact of the visionary work of Moses, who was the architect behind the construction of the Southern State when he served as the chairman of the Long Island State Park Commission and president of the New York State Parks Council.
The 100th anniversary of the construction of the parkway this year offers an opportunity to reflect on both its history and its future.
Often referred to simply as “the parkway,” the Southern State was part of a
Construction on the Southern State began in 1925, under Moses’s leadership. It was designed to improve access to Jones Beach. The land was originally a water conduit owned by the borough of Brooklyn. It comprises the western portion of unsigned New York State Route 908M, with the Heckscher State Parkway occupying the eastern section. Its first section opened to the public in 1927; there were additions in 1949, and its current roadway was completed in 1962, when it reached Heckscher Parkway.
Following the post-war housing boom on Long Island, the parkway was widened and straightened in a number of places to serve commuters traveling at speeds unanticipated when the road was first constructed.
Initially, the Southern State had a toll between exits 13 and 14, at the Cross Island Parkway, until 1978 when the state eliminated it and removed the toll plaza.
Prior to World War II, the State Department of Transportation estimated that fewer than 15,000 cars traveled on the parkway each day. During the postwar population boom on Long Island, the volume expanded to 190,000 cars per day, with most using it to commute between home and work.
Mary Cascone, historian of the Town of Babylon, notes that the Long Island parkway system was initially designed to bring automobiles to state parks.
“By limiting access to passenger cars, the parkways were supposedly intended for recreational driving,” Cascone wrote in her research on Moses and the Southern State. “Drivers and passengers could enjoy the beauty of the tree-lined roadway, free of billboards and trucks, as they made the journey to the countryside.”
That intention is visually confirmed in photos taken of the road when it opened, showing one or two cars on a lushly landscaped parkway, portraying what was then known as the “leisurely Sunday drive.” With its verdant country-
side free of commercial traffic, the parkway appealed to the more affluent city residents who owned cars, whether an intentional outcome of the design or not.
An aspect of the roadway’s design that is often cited as evidence to support the claim that it was designed to deny access to the masses is its bridges, which have unusually low clearances.
“It appears to be accurate that the state parks and beaches reached by the Nassau and Suffolk County parkways were deliberately designed to accommodate motorists rather than people who used public transportation,” Cascone said. “The inference that many people make, however, is that Black people used public transportation — which they
Photos courtesy Babylon Town Historical Society
The Southern State Parkway under construction at Belmont Avenue in Babylon.
A colorized photo of the Southern State Parkway when it opened in 1927.
Southern State’s century of vehicular history
Continued from PreViouS Page
surely did — along with all the other people who could not afford to, or simply chose not to, own a car. This ignores the fact, however, that Black people did own automobiles, and drove them on the parkways and to the beaches.”
For some, however, the low parkway bridges are an unfortunate, lingering reminder of classism and inequity in the guise of public works, Cascone concluded.
Thomas J. Campanella, a professor at Cornell University, a historian and a writer on city planning and the urban environment, sees the potential evidence of discrimination in the lower height of the Southern State bridges compared with those on other parkways Moses designed.
“The low-bridge story is a microbiography of Moses, a tragic hero who built for the ages, but for a narrowly construed public,” Campanella wrote. “It also shows how something as inert as a stone-faced bridge can be alive with politics and meaning.”
He also noted that Moses’s attitude appeared contradictory, as he approved the construction of a swimming pool and play center in Harlem — now the Jackie Robinson Park — which is considered one of the best public works projects of the New Deal era anywhere in the United States, and established other recreational sites in communities of color across New York state.
In a press release dated July 23, 1934, Moses argued for the construction of more recreational facilities for all New Yorkers, noting, “It is no exaggeration to say that the health, happiness, efficiency and orderliness of many of the city’s
residents, especially in the summer months, are tremendously affected by the presence or absence of adequate swimming and bathing facilities.”
Next installment:
statistics and causes.
Historical parkway facts
■ Originally designed with quaint wooden lampposts, which became affectionately known as “woody” lights.
■ When the parkway was first built, then Gov. Franklin D. Roosevelt wanted to have a western extension that reached into Brooklyn. That stretch of highway is known today as the Belt Parkway.
■ Following the suburban expansion of Long Island after World War II, the parkway was widened and straightened in places to allow for higher speeds and more traffic.
■ A state police substation and barracks were built on either side of the parkway in North Valley Stream.
■ A median service station was built in the 1930s east of Exit 32 (Route 110). It closed in 1985, but its abandoned ramps can still be seen in the median.
Accident
Jeffrey Bessen/Herald Heading east on the south side of today’s Southern State Parkway.
RVC ‘Lit it Up Blue’ for autism awareness
By KELSIE RADZISKI kradziski@liherald.com
The seventh annual RVC Blue Speaks “Light it Up Blue” Gala recognized a corporate honoree for the first time in the organizations’ history. Flagstar Private Bank was praised for its ongoing commitment to community service and inclusion, particularly for individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
The gala, a signature fundraising event for the nonprofit, brought together supporters, advocates and families affected by autism. Since its founding in 2017, the organization has raised more than $600,000 for autism-focused initiatives, including research, sensoryinclusive programs and scholarships.
This year’s event, on April 26, continues to benefit from the generosity of longtime supporter Butch Yamali, president and CEO of the Dover Group, who has again donated the full cost of the event.
“We’re honored to be named Gala Honoree by RVC Blue Speaks,” said Rich Raffetto, senior executive vice president and president of Flagstar Private & Commercial Bank. “Their dedication to supporting individuals with autism is inspiring. At Flagstar, we believe in the power of community and are proud to support organizations that make a real difference in people’s lives.”
Flagstar Private Bank, a division of Flagstar Bank, N.A., was honored for its community engagement and recent actions to support individuals with ASD. In partnership with the Winters Center for Autism — another RVC Blue Speaks collaborator — Flagstar Bank has hired three adults with autism who completed training at the center and continue to work at the bank.
“Having the longtime support from organizations like Flagstar Private Bank, through its parent company, Flagstar Bank, and Lucy Iannucci, SVP and Group Director, is critical to our mission,” Tony Cancellieri, co-founder of RVC Blue Speaks, said. “As we learned more about their collective commitment to impacting their communities in meaningful ways, we wanted to recognize their efforts and celebrate their commitment to diverse communities.”
Olivia Hurd was also honored at the gala as the “Person of Courage,” receiving recognition and a citation for her advocacy.
Founded by Rockville Centre residents Anthony and MaryLou Cancellieri following their grandson Louis’s autism diagnosis at age two, RVC Blue Speaks has emerged as a leading force for autism awareness on Long Island. The organization has donated thousands to support programs at the Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment at Mount Sinai, Adelphi University’s Bridges Program, the Hagedorn Little Village School in Seaford and Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital.
Among its local initiatives, RVC Blue Speaks helped fund two Vecta sensory machines for use in the emergency department at Mount Sinai South Nassau. The devices create calming environments for individuals with ASD in
Anthony and Mary Lou Cancellieri, founders of RVC Blue
Courage,’ and Legislator Scott Davis.
Richard Raffetto, Senior Executive Vice President & President of Commercial and Private Banking at Flagstar Private Bank, accepted the award given by Mary Lou and Anthony Cancellieri for their support of people with autism.
stressful medical settings. The group is also supporting the development of a sensory space in the hospital’s new Feil Family Pavilion.
In addition to medical partnerships, the organization works directly with local municipalities. In collaboration with the Village of Rockville Centre and the nonprofit KultureCity, RVC Blue Speaks helped the Rockville Centre Police Department become New York’s first certified sensory-inclusive law enforcement agency. Each April, the
and
group leads a village-wide “Light It Up Blue” campaign to promote autism awareness.
For more information about RVC
The Adelphi University Bridges Program works closely with RVC Blue Speaks, and they were in attendance at the gala.
Blue Speaks and its initiatives, visit RVCBlueSpeaks.org.
The gala brought in supporters to help raise money to contribute to the organization’s autism programs and awareness.
Melissa Baptiste/Herald photos
Speaks, left
second to left, with Olivia Hurd, the honored ‘Person of
Run to Remember raises over $50,000
By XIOMARA TRINIDAD PEREZ Herald Intern
This year marks the fifth consecutive year that Kenny Owens, of Rockville Centre, has run 27 miles through the village in honor of his brother, raising funds for charitable organizations along the way. The Kevin Owens Run to Remember drew around 300 runners and raised more than $50,000.
Lister Park served as the starting point for this year’s Run to Remember, where participants completed six loops of the course within 24 hours. Each loop began at 4:00 a.m., 8:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m., 8:00 p.m. and midnight.
With the support of BUOY4–an apparel company Owens founded with four of his brother’s closest friends–Owens started the Kevin Owens Run to Remember event in 2020, in honor of his late brother, Kevin Owens. The 27-mile run symbolizes the final 27 days Kevin spent in the intensive care unit at Mercy Hospital before he died from cancer on April 6, 2017, at the age of 39.
However, this year’s run was also dedicated to Chase Callahan, who died on March 31 at age 19, just days before the event.
“People run or walk or just come for their own reasons,” Owens said. “Could be somebody. Maybe someone that we’re not running for or raising money for,
Brighten
Courtesy Beth Beyrer
On the Run to Remember’s first year alone, Owens raised $6,000 for Mercy Hospital. In its second year, the event teamed up with the Tommy Brull Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to the special needs community, raising $28,000 for four local families and causes.
but somebody that they’re trying to remember. And if it’s a moment where they get to think about that person while they’re doing it, that’s what it’s all
about.”
Beyond honoring Owens’ brother and Callahan, the event raises funds to support charities and families battling
health challenges or grieving a loss. The April 5 event honored three loved ones who have died — Dana Costanzo, Emily Casey and Ryan O’Shea — while also supporting Justin Spillane and Christine D’Onofrio Osborn, who are currently battling health challenges.
Funds raised for Spillane and Osborn were directed to them and their families, while donations in memory of Costanzo, Casey and O’Shea benefited the foundations created in their names: the Princess Deeds Foundation, the Emily Casey Memorial Scholarship and the Ryan Patrick O’Shea Foundation.
“I kind of started it,” said Owens. “But it’s become more about the kids and what they do for the community. So it’s bigger than me. It’s more than me. It’s not about me anymore.”
Initially, the run started at Owens’ home, but as it grew, he and his family worked with the village to relocate it. Public officials, including Mayor Francis Murray and Trustee Gregory Shaughnessy, helped facilitate the move.
“The village allowing us to have it at Lister Park, we appreciated that greatly,” Owens said. “Because having it at my house became too much,” Owens said. “You know, it grew pretty quickly.”
The event partnered with 24 companies and organizations, including the Tommy Brull Foundation, Do It for Dane and Hooks for Heroes.
• Bowtie Pasta Salad
• Choice of Green Salad
• Lettuce, Tomato & Onion
• Sliced Watermelon
• Buns
• Ketchup, Mustard & Cheese
STEPPING OUT
“Choc”-full of delights
The Chocolate Expo is all sorts of delicious
By Danielle Schwab
Prepare for a day coated in all things chocolate.
Over 90 vendors soon set up shop at Hostra University’s David Mack Sports & Exhibition Center. The unique foodie experience returns, May 4, with sweet and savory tastes all in one place.
“We call ourselves the official home of chocolate, food, and fun,” Marvin Baum, the Chocolate Expo’s founder, says. “We’re using chocolate as a platform, not only to support small local businesses, but also to do good for the community.”
It all began in 2006, after Baum realized there was a strong desire to bring food vendors and communities together. Since 2012, the chocoholic’s delight has been sweetening Long Island and has grown to be the confectionery hot spot it is today.
“Long Island has always been a special spot for me. It helped us go to the next level in terms of what we could offer the public in terms of an experience,” Baum says.
From chocolate classics like bonbons, fudge and chocolate-dipped treats to interesting twists such as chocolate-covered bacon, there are no shortage of desserts to indulge in. For more savory pairings, baked goods, specialty foods, wine, and cheeses are also tempting; there’s surely something to satisfy everyone’s palate.
Visitors can check out the Long Island confectioners represented, including Bellmore’s Chocolate Works, a chocolaterie selling chocolate-covered pretzels, platters, and more.
“Last year was our first year at the Expo. We had a great experience,” Nimisha Patel, who owns the store with her husband, Raj, reports.“People always buy chocolate, and we get to be creative and decorate with different designs.”
Other local favorites include Chez Hedwidge, an artisan gluten-free bakery, based in Valley Stream; Massapequa’s Swizzled Desserts, a purveyor of small batch alchohol-infused ice creams and sorbets; and Sunflower Bakeshop, a Kosher bakery in West Hempstead that caters to customers with
• Sunday, May 4, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
• Tickets are $20, $10 ages 5-12 when purchased online, children under 5 free, $30, $15 child at door; available from thechocolateexpo.com
• Hofstra University, David S. Mack Sports & Exhibition Complex, Hempstead
food and dietary restrictions, offering a wide range of glutenfree and vegan options.
This year, the choice of treats is more enticing than ever.
“There are a limited number of chocolate shops on Long Island. We’re bringing vendors from other states and countries, so we can bring unique things that people from Long Island have not seen elsewhere before,” Baum says.
Be sure to sample the diverse offerings that include the trendy Dubai chocolate (Omniya), rich artisanal chocolates from Paris (Chocolaknin), and luxury Swiss assortments (Canonica).
The binge-worthy experiences don’t stop with chocolate. Guests can meet up with this years’ special guests — everyone’s favorite 1970s TV family, “The Brady Bunch.”
“There’s a strong nostalgic quality to connecting with the original show. This is a chance to get together, to connect without a television screen, in a much more informal kind of way,” says Barry Williams, who fans will know as the eldest Brady child, Greg Brady.
Williams is readu to answer all your eager-to-know questions about the show — along with his castmates Christopher Knight (Peter Brady), Mike Lookinland (Bobby Brady), and Susan Olsen (Cindy Brady) — during the morning panel discussion. He’s also bringing some “Tikis” that fans may recognize from the iconic Hawaii episode.
“I see happen quite often is a fan will approach us, they might be middle-aged, and in front of my eyes they will turn into the giggling teenager that they were when they were watching the show,” he notes.
Balloon artist Robbie Furman adds to the magic, creating a life-sized ‘Brady Bunch’ — made entirely out of balloons!
For more family-sized fun, young visitors can drop by the Kidz Zone for face painting, balloon twisting and chocolate smashing. You may even catch a glimpse of a Stormtrooper — don’t forget to respond “May the Fourth be with you!”
At the end of the day, kids can enjoy a balloon popping party.
“We let the kids pop them with safe little picks at the end of the event, which we’ve never done on Long Island before,” Baum says.
Whether you’re familiar with the Expo or a curious newcomer, it’s always a delectable outing.
“We have a relationship with people on Long Island, and they look forward to it every year. I recently saw a Facebook post [about the Expo] saying ‘My friend and I had a magical day that we will never forget,’” Baum says.
“This is why we do what we do with the Chocolate Expo, for our guests have a magical time.”
Pink Talking Fish
Three mammoth bands. Three musical phenomenons. One idea inspired by love of the music. That’s Pink Talking Fish. The hybrid tribute fusion act takes the music from three iconic bands creating a remarkable musical jam. PTF brings their unique sound to the Landmark on Main Street stage, on their latest tour celebrating the 50th anniversary of the incredible Pink Floyd album “Wish You Were Here.” This show consists of two sets. The first set will be a full rendition of this epic album from start to finish, with “Classic PTF” combinations for the second set. “Wish You Were Here” is extremely meaningful to the band members and so many music lovers around the world and PTF is thrilled to bring this album to life in 2025. Although the music from each act is different, PTF has discovered that fusing the material together creates an amazing story. The epic emotion of Pink Floyd; the funky, danceable layerings of The Talking Heads; the styles, unique compositional structures and pure fun of Phish — to merge these three into one gives music lovers a special experience.
Friday, May 2, 8 p.m. $49 and $46. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or call (516) 767-6444.
Regency Romance is afoot
Old Westbury Gardens welcomes everyone to Regency Romance Weekend, a most splendid affair in honor of Jane Austen’s 250th birthday. Families can wander the gardens for storybook strolls and hands-on crafts, while those with a playful spirit can enjoy lawn games fit for the finest estates. Also find inspiration in creative activities, while music lovers are serenaded with classical takes on familiar tunes. Of course, what would a Regency gathering be without fashion and society gossip? Take in a discussion on Regency fashion —fact versus fiction. And for those with a keen mind and a love of Austen’s world, Austen trivia will put your knowledge to the ultimate test. Plus indulge in a proper afternoon tea, or treat yourself to confections at the café.
Saturday and Sunday, May 3-4. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury. For more information and program/events schedule, go to oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048.
Photos courtesy Chuck Fishman Every bite is a sweet discovery at The Chocolate Expo.
Your Neighborhood CALENDAR
MAY 1
On Exhibit Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, the original “Deco at 100” coincides with the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Paris International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts (Exposition internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes) that publicly launched the movement. The direct follow-up to the well-received 2023 exhibit, “Our Gilded Age,” it comparably links the period’s signature innovation in the decorative arts, Art Deco, to the fine arts. On view through June 15.
• Where: 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor.
• Time: Ongoing
• Contact: (516) 484-9337 or nassaumuseum.org
‘Elephant & Piggie’s We Are in a Play!’
The beloved musical adventure, ripped from the pages of Mo Willems’ beloved award-winning, best-selling children’s books, is back on stage at Long Island Children’s Museum. Willems’ classic characters Elephant and Piggie storm the stage in a rollicking musical romp filled with plenty of pachydermal peril and swiney suspense perfect for young audiences.
• Where: Museum Row, Garden City.
• Time: Also May 2-3, and May 7-8, times vary
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
MAY
2
Brian Regan
Critics, fans and fellow comedians agree: Brian Regan is one of the most respected comedians in the country with Vanity Fair calling Brian, “The funniest stand-up alive,” and Entertainment Weekly citing him as “Your favorite comedian’s favorite comedian.” Having built his 30-plus year career on the strength of his material alone, Brian’s non-stop theater tour continuously fills prestigious venues across North America, visiting close to 100 cities each year. His comedic talent extends beyond the stage. He’s released two acclaimed Netflix specials, “Brian Regan: Nunchucks And Flamethrowers” and “Brian Regan: On The Rocks,” showcasing his knack for finding humor in everyday situations. He also starred in his own Netflix series,”Stand Up And Away! With Brian Regan,” and even made history with “Brian Regan: Live From Radio City Music Hall,” the first live broadcast of a stand-up special in Comedy Central’s history. Regan also co-stars in three seasons of Peter Farrelly’s series, “Loudermilk,” which moved to Netflix in January 2024, ranking in the Top 10 TV shows on Netflix for over a month. He’s also a familiar presence on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.” He’s the standup guest who the show invites on for two segments: a performance segment and also on the couch to chat with Jimmy. $99.50, $79.50, $69.50, $49.50.
poets and apply their craft to your own writing. You will amaze yourself! Registration required.
• Where: 221 N. Village Ave., Rockville Centre
• Time: 1-3 p.m.
Unity through Diversity: Celebrating All Abilities in the Arts
Join Molloy University for an inclusive event supporting the neurodivergent community, featuring artwork and performances by members of the Rebecca Center for Music Therapy and local groupps. All proceeds will benefit the TRC Client Scholarship Fund. $25; a group ticket rate of $10 per person is available for groups of 10 or more using promo code GRP25.
• Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre
• Time: 6-8 p.m.
• Contact: Molloy.edu/Events/ Unity-Through-Diversity-2025/
The Poet’s Craft Rockville Centre Public Library invites all to learn the art of poetry.Turn ordinary moments into extraordinary poetry.Analyze and enjoy the work of established
• Contact: rvclibrary.org
Long Island Marathon Weekend
The Long Island Marathon and additional races return to Eisenhower Park with three days packed with races for runners of all ages and abilities, through May 4.
• Where: Eisenhower Park, East Meadow
• Time: Varying times on Friday, Saturday & Sunday
• Contact: RunSignUp.com/ Race/NY/EastMeadow/ LongIslandMarathon
Wellness Fair
MAY
3
South Side Middle School hosts their annual Wellness Fair.
• Where: 67 Hillside Ave., Rockville Centre
• Time: noon-2 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 255-8976
‘Bridgerton’-inspired dance workshop
Copiague Memorial Library hosts
“Butterfly, Butterfly” for children ages 4 through 6. Kids will listen to stories about our fluttery friends and make sponge painted butterfly art.
• Where: The Barn at Orchard Hill, 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: Noon-1 p.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens.org
Storybook Stroll
Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for a storybook adventure. Stroll the gardens and listen to “Jane Austen: Little People Big Dreams” by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara. Later create a unique take home craft. For ages 3-5. Storybook Strolls start at the Beech Tree (next to Westbury House), and end at the Thatched Cottage. Registration required.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or (516) 333-0048
Splish Splash…
MAY
4
Animal Baths Hang out with some Long Island Children’s Museum’s “residents,” Join
MAY 7
Restaurant Crawl
Eat at numerous Rockville Centre restaurants, sample their special dishes and walk around town with friends or family while supporting the Rockville Centre Lions Club at their fourth annual Restaurant Crawl. $55.
• Where: Downtown Rockville Centre
• Time: 6-9 p.m.
• Contact: RVCLions.com/ RVC-Restaurant-Crawl/.
Rockville Centre Board of Trustees meet The Rockville Centre Board of Trustees holds their monthly meeting.
• Where: 1 College Place, Rockville Centre
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: rvcny.gov
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington.
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
an animal educator in the Hive Studio in the Feasts for Beasts Gallery to learn what goes into the care of LICM’s animals. Observe animal bath time.
• Where: Museum Row, Garden City
• Time: 1:30-2 p.m.
• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800
MAY
6
Rockville Centre Public Library meeting
Join the library for their final budget hearing and meet the candidates.
• Where: 221 N. Village Ave., Rockville Centre
• Time: 7-8:45 p.m.
• Contact: rvclibrary.org
RVC Homemakers
Join the RVC Homemakers to enjoy cooking and crafts while benefiting the community.
• Where: Recreation Center, 111 N. Long Beach Rd., Rockville Centre
• Time: Ongoing Tuesdays, 10 a.m.
• Contact: call Karen Alterson at (516) 318-6771.
MAY 8
Rockville Centre Board of Education meeting
The Board of Education holds their monthly meeting and budget hearing prior to the vote.
• Where: Common Room, 140 Shepherd St., Rockville Centre
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: BoE@rvcschools.org
Breastfeeding Support Group
Mercy Hospital offers a peerto-peer breastfeeding support group facilitated by a certified counselor. Open to new moms with babies from newborn to 1 year. Registration required.
• Where: St. Anne’s Building, 1000 North Village Ave., Rockville Centre.
• Time: Ongoing Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
• Contact: Gabriella Gennaro at (516) 705-2434 or chsli.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.
Las Vegas Sands pulls out of casino bid
By KELSIE RADZISKI
kradziski@liherald.com
Las Vegas Sands is no longer pursuing its $6 billion proposal to build a casino resort on the Nassau Coliseum site.
The company will not apply in June for one of three available downstate gaming licenses in New York. Executives cited a range of market forces, including the rise of online gambling, economic uncertainty in the U.S. and a strategic shift to preserve shareholder value.
The proposed project included a 400,000-square-foot casino, hotels, restaurants, retail space and a convention center. It was projected to create more than 8,500 construction jobs and over 5,000 permanent positions across the 72-acre site.
Last August, the County Legislature approved a 42-year operational lease agreement with Las Vegas Sands for the Coliseum and surrounding land in an 18-1 vote, meaning that Sands was responsible for the general upkeep and maintenance of the property but could not build or develop. The next steps for the project would have been for the company to apply for a lease that allowed it to develop the property, and to bid for one of the gaming licenses.
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, a forceful advocate for the project, issued a statement through Chris Boyle, his director of communications.
“County Executive Bruce Blakeman
Kelsie Radziski/Herald
Las Vegas Sands has withdrawn its plan to build a $6 billion casino on the Nassau Coliseum site. The project sparked debate from the start, with groups like the Say No to the Casino Civic Association, above, protesting outside legislative meetings.
has been aware of certain pressures that have factored into Las Vegas Sands’ rethinking of land-based brick and mortar casinos in the United States,” the statement read.
“The County Executive is grateful that Las Vegas Sands is committed to the development of the Coliseum site with or without a casino,” Boyle added. “However, there is strong interest from gaming organizations which have been in confidential discussions with Nassau County in taking the place of Las Vegas Sands in
the licensing application process.”
“Nassau County will crystallize within the next 30 days whether or not to entertain a casino component or develop the site without,” Boyle stated. “In either event there will be an exciting new development that will create jobs and positive economic activity.”
The Say No to the Casino Civic Association, whose members have been vocal opponents of the project since the beginning, is “thrilled” after a long fight against the “wholly destructive casino,”
according to a statement issued by members Monica Kiely and Allison O’Brien Silva.
“While we are concerned the door remains open for the county to find a new casino partner, it was always a bad idea, and it will continue to be a bad idea, whether the county works with Las Vegas Sands or another predatory gambling company looking to extract wealth from our community,” the statement read.
On April 24, County Legislator Seth Koslow sent a cease-and-desist letter to Blakeman demanding that all expenditures surrounding the Sands casino be terminated. Koslow said at a news conference that morning that there was no clear path forward for the project, and he was concerned about “wasting time, energy and money” on something that is “not what people wanted.”
Koslow, who is the Democratic candidate for county executive, supports development on the site that both brings in the money that the casino promised and aligns with what he maintains community members want.
“We need to invest in a real project that’s going to get done, that people want, that has community buy-in,” he said at the conference. “We can certainly do a hotel, an entertainment facility, with a convention center, something that’s going to bring more people here, something that’s going to bring tourism here.”
PSEG Long Island Hosts First “Business First” Workshop for Entrepreneurs
By Maureen Fitzgerald
On April 15, nearly 50 Long Island business owners attended PSEG Long Island’s first “Business First” workshop at its Bethpage headquarters, hosted in collaboration with the Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce. The morning session featured a networking breakfast and expert-led presentations on reducing energy costs, managing utility bills, and securing funding for energy-efficient upgrades.
“Small businesses power our communities and fuel economic growth,” said Veronica Isaac, Manager of Customer and Community Partnerships at PSEG Long Island, reflecting on the vital role small businesses play here — a theme that resonated throughout the day’s program. “By helping them thrive, we unlock local jobs, boost reinvestment and create a cycle of shared success. A strong small business is a win for all of us.”
Christine Bryson and Shamisha Sims kicked off the event with an overview of financial and technical resources available through PSEG Long Island and partner agencies. Bryson explained how federal, state, and local programs—including grants, loans, and tax credits—can support energy-saving improvements. She also provided tips on working with economic development agencies. Sims introduced PSEG’s Business First program, which offers free or low-cost energy assessments, and shared sample audit reports highlighting quickreturn upgrades like LED lighting and HVAC controls.
The technical portion of the workshop focused on implementation. Matt Connors shared case studies of local companies that cut energy use by up to 25% and explained how to apply for rebates tied to improvements like programmable thermostats and motor retrofits. Nicole Jones-Cumberbatch followed with a presentation on PSEG’s renovation support services, which help businesses navigate permits, hire contractors, and stay on schedule. Paul DiBenedetto wrapped up the segment with a discussion on EV charging stations and available
incentives, sparking interest from several attendees planning future installations.
Thenaris Godbolt walked through PSEG Long Island’s commercial billing system, helping attendees better understand rate schedules, online tools, and cost-saving features like budget billing and prompt-payment discounts. The session closed with Jimmy Alty offering procurement tips to help businesses evaluate vendor bids, negotiate terms, and leverage PSEG Long Island’s contractor network — their Prime Efficiency
Partners — for quality assurance and cost control. Attendees also had the opportunity to meet one-onone with Business First Advocates to discuss next steps, from rebate applications to project planning, receiving personalized advice and customized next steps and key contacts for follow-up support.
Future workshops are planned throughout the year. Businesses can email PSEGLI-BusinessFirst@pseg. com to schedule a free energy assessment or learn more.
photo courtesy PSEG Long Island
Long Island business owners attend PSEG Long Island “Business First” workshop on April 15.
Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE
INCORPORATED
VILLAGE OF ROCKVILLE CENTRE, NEW YORK
NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL ESTATE FOR UNPAID VILLAGE TAXES AND/OR WATER RENT ARREARS AND/OR GARBAGE
DISPOSAL FEES AND/OR ASSESSMENTS
REMAINING UNPAID FOR THE YEAR 2024.
NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that pursuant to the provisions of the New York Real Property Tax Law as applicable to the Village of Rockville Centre (“Village”), and pursuant to direction of the Village Board of Trustees, the undersigned Village Clerk-Treasurer/Village Administrator will sell at Public Auction in the manner provided by law on May 22, 2025 at 10:00 am local prevailing time in the courtroom of the Eugene J. Murray Village Hall, One College Place, Rockville Centre, Nassau County, New York, so much of each of the following parcels upon which Village Taxes and/or Water Rent Arrears and/or Garbage Disposal Fees and/or Assessments remain unpaid for the year 2024 as will be sufficient to discharge the taxes and/or water rent arrears and/or garbage disposal fees and/or assessments, fees, interest and discharges which may be due thereon respectively at the time of such sale, and shall continue the same from day to day until the said sale shall be completed. The Village reserves the right to withdraw any property prior to the sale of its lien. The parcels have not been researched to determine what the public records reflect regarding these properties, and the Village makes no representation with respect to such records or property status. Before bidding, all tax lien purchasers should investigate what the public records disclose about the property in question. All persons bidding at the sale will be required to produce identification with full legal name and address. Persons acting as agent for another will be required to produce documentation of authority.
Such real estate will be sold subject to any unpaid tax liens purchased and held by the Village. The purchaser or purchasers at such tax sale will be required to pay the amount of their respective bids to the undersigned within TEN days after the sale pursuant to the provisions of Section 1454 of the New York Real Property Tax Law and Village Local Law #12-1994. Payment may be made only by cash, money order, bank check or certified check. No personal checks will be accepted. Where no bid is made and/or the bidder does not timely pay the balance of the bid, it shall be deemed that the tax lien for that premises has been purchased by and sold to the Village of Rockville Centre. THE VILLAGE DOES NOT PROVIDE LEGAL ADVICE TO ANY LIEN PURCHASER REGARDING ANY ASPECT OF THE PURCHASE OF OR FORECLOSURE UPON ANY LIEN. TAX LIEN PURCHASERS SHOULD FAMILIARIZE THEMSELVES WITH CURRENT LAW REGARDING ISSUANCE OF TREASURER’S DEEDS FOR UNREDEEMED TAX LIENS.
The following is a list or statement of the Real Estate upon which such Tax and/or Garbage Disposal Fees and/or Assessments are unpaid for the year 2024 with a statement of the amount of tax, and/or water rent arrears, and/or garbage disposal fees, and/or assessments, fees, interest and charges thereon to May 1, 2025.
NAME OF OWNER OR OCCUPANT AS IT APPEARS ON ASSESSMENT ROLL; DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY; TOTAL AMOUNT OF TAX, WATER RENT ARREARS, GARBAGE DISPOSAL FEES, ASSESSMENTS, FEES, INTEREST CHARGES AT MAY 1, 2025. Nancy Howard Clerk-Treasurer/Village Administrator
Sec 35, Blk 088, Lot 22 Estate of Estella Mitchell 65 Lakeside Dr $ 2,815.75
Sec 36, Blk 296, Lot 124 Keri Rossner
76 Buckminster Rd $ 3,281.01
Sec 36, Blk 335, Lot 85
James/Xochitl Pellegrini 16 Andover Rd $ 4,110.10
Sec 36, Blk 335, Lot 541
Elizabeth Boldi 127 Berkshire Rd $ 9,729.59
Sec 36, Blk 350, Lot 9 Kenneth J/Jinnette Park 14 Dover Ct $ 3,134.90
Sec 36, Blk 355, Lot 477B
Danielle/Steven Shay 20 Adams Ct $ 3,504.06
Sec 36, Blk 357, Lot 281 Asset Tree Group Ltd 15 Shepherd St $ 7,169.44
Sec 36, Blk 428, Lot 279 Richard/Kathryn Pellegrini 16 Woodgreen Pl $ 6,592.43
Sec 36, Blk 499, Lot 41 Ingibjorg Gallagher LE 21 Knollwood Rd $ 1,433.54
Sec 38, Blk 188, Lot 7 Sheba Girl LLC
25 Hillside Ave $ 2,528.51
Sec 38, Blk 189, Lot 17
Estate of Kathleen Powell
83 Clinton Ave $ 978.98
Sec 38, Blk 191, Lot 7
55 Front LLC
55 Front St $ 15,154.99
Sec 38, Blk 193, Lot 102
23 Maple Ave LLC 23 Maple Ave $ 689.88
Sec 38, Blk 193, Lot 146 23 Maple Avenue LLC 23 Maple Ave $ 6,995.59
Sec 38, Blk 204, Lot 564
30 Raymond St LLC
30 Raymond St $ 2,017.86
Sec 38, Blk 220, Lot 42
49 Amherst LLC
49 Amherst Ct $ 7,570.77
Sec 38, Blk 225, Lot 1
Estate of Glenda Kaplan
85 Devon Rd $ 7,169.44
Sec 38, Blk 243, Lot 5 Factor Dynamics
Vacant LandHawthorne Ave
$ 289.07
Sec 38, Blk 261, Lot 474
Giuseppe/Antonia Lascala
124 Raymond St
$ 2,543.00
Sec 38, Blk 262, Lot 147
James/Sheila Lee
201 Raymond St
$ 4,324.91
Sec 38, Blk 267, Lot 8
Stephen Wollweber
226 No Forest Ave
$ 4,522.40
Sec 38, Blk 271, Lot 40
Travis McShane 1091 Powell
$ 6,019.27
Sec 38, Blk 274, Lot
337
Felix Cujilan
14 Jackson Ave
$ 2,865.40
Sec 38, Blk 281, Lot 4 County Acquisitions
LLC
165 No Forest Ave
$ 3,040.11
Sec 38, Blk 295, Lot 2
45 N Village LLC
45 No Village Ave
$ 7,377.21
Sec 38, Blk 295, Lot 3 Bergen Street
Commons LLC
43 No Village Ave
$ 10,236.57
Sec 38, Blk 295, Lot 32
45 N Village Ave LLC
45 No Village Ave
$ 143.31
Sec 38, Blk 308, Lot 37 1859 Flatbush LLC
490 Sunrise Hwy
$ 18,730.22
Sec 38, Blk 330, Lot 105
Christian/Robyn Stathis
19 So Lewis Pl
$ 4,617.56
Sec 38, Blk 338, Lot 49
Merrick Rd RVC RE LLC
500 Merrick Rd
$ 8,779.06
Sec 38, Blk 345, Lot
269 South Long Beach Rd
LLC
62 So Long Beach Rd
$ 495.30
Sec 38, Blk 345, Lot
274
South Long Beach Rd
LLC
62 So Long Beach Rd
$ 9,046.52
Sec 38, Blk 436, Lot
435 U107
Anne E Cavanagh
99 So Park Ave - Unit
107
$ 1,188.05
Sec 38, Blk 436, Lot 435 U324
Don Dreyer
99 So Park Ave - Unit
324 $ 981.67
Sec 38, Blk 513, Lot 102 Frank Romano 15 Milton Ct
$ 3,167.65
Sec 54, Blk D, Lot 762 Ernest/Chantal T Desravines
15 Melton Dr E
$ 2,436.31
Sec 54, Blk D.03, Lot 2 Michael/Patricia Bonagura
8 Gateway
$ 5,652.99
Sec 54, Blk D.03, Lot 45 Doris Varca Vacant Land - Fenway
$ 179.75
153099
LEGAL NOTICE
Village of Rockville Centre Nassau County, New York
Notice of Board of Zoning Appeals Hearing Date: May 7, 2025
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 340 Rockville Centre Village Code NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Appeals of the Village of Rockville Centre will hold a Zoning Appeals Hearing at the Eugene J. Murray Village Hall 1 College Place, Rockville Centre at 7:00 p.m.
LEGAL NOTICE May 7, 2025 at 7:00 PM
Case # 09-2025 - John Gonzalez & Julie Gonzalez (Touretsky)Continued from April 9th, 2025
To construct a 18’ x 36’ in-ground pool with a proposed impervious surface coverage of 50.87% where 45.0% is the maximum allowable, and the pool not wholly located within the rear third or quadrant of the lot within a Residence A district.
Premises known as 45 Wright Road
Case # 10-2025Heather Nathan & Beatrix Bielik
To construct a 19’ x 23’ open pavilion in the rear yard with a proposed lot coverage of 35.5% where 30.0% is the maximum allowable within a Residence A district.
Premises known as 16
Devon Road
Case # 11-2025 - Brian & Lisa Guarini
To construct a twostory rear addition with a proposed side yard setback of 6.6 feet where 8.0 feet is the minimum required within a Residence A district.
Premises known as 235 Burtis Avenue Case # 12-2025Randy Ramtahal & Tanuja Samaroo
To maintain the removal and replacement of roof over existing entry foyer, move side entrance to front of entryway, construct a new stoop with portico and interior alterations with a proposed front yard setback of 21.6 feet to existing entryway and 17.1 feet to proposed portico where the Average Front Yard Setback is 21.5 feet and 25.0 feet is the minimum required, and unenclosed steps extending 15 feet from the principal building where 7 feet is the maximum allowed within a Residence A district lot.
Premises known as 60 Cumberland Street Case # 13-2025 - John & Laurie Coghlan
To construct a twostory rear addition, second story addition over existing first floor, and covered rear porch with a proposed lot coverage of 38.48% where 30.0% is the maximum allowable, proposed floor area ratio of 53.62% where 50% is the maximum allowable, and a side yard setback of 4.84 feet where 8.0 feet is the minimum required, within a Residence A district.
Premises known as 140 Sherman Avenue Case # 14-2025Michelle Galante - 29 Fenway LLC
To construct a onestory rear addition, rear screened porch, convert part of the attached garage to living space, and front portico with a proposed lot coverage of 30.89% where 30.0% is the maximum allowable, impervious surface coverage of 50.43% where 45.0% is the maximum allowable, a front yard setback of 21.42 feet where the average front yard setback is 25.62 feet and is the minimum required, a side yard setback of 4.61 to the existing garage, and 5.64 feet to the proposed rear screened porch where 8.0 feet is the minimum required in each side yard, and proposed
aggregate side yards of 10.25 feet where 13.5 feet is the minimum required within a Residence A district.
Premises known as 29 Fenway
Dated: April 23, 2025
BOARD OF APPEALS OF THE VILLAGE OF ROCKVILLE CENTRE, Rockville Centre, New York
J. Robert Schenone, Chairman
Patrick D. O’Brien, Secretary Information and records for appeals cases are available at the Office of the Secretary of the Board of Appeals, 110 Maple Avenue, RVC, NY 153251
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF ANNUAL SCHOOL DISTRICT AND LIBRARY ELECTION
ROCKVILLE CENTRE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT
NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual Meeting of the qualified voters of the Rockville Centre Union Free School District, Nassau County, New York will be held on May 20, 2025 at South Side High School, 140 Shepherd Street, Rockville Centre, New York for the following purposes:
a) To vote upon the annual School budget and the Library budget for the school year 2025/2026 and to authorize the levying of a tax upon the taxable property of the District for the foregoing purposes;
LEGAL NOTICE
Notice of Public Hearing
Village of Rockville Centre
Nassau County, New York
Meeting Date: May 5, 2025
Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 330
Rockville Centre Village Code NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Exterior Design Review Board of the Village of Rockville Centre will have a Public Hearing at the Eugene J. Murray Village Hall, 1 College Place, Rockville Centre
LEGAL NOTICE May 5, 2025 at 7:00
PM
Case No. 03-2025
Thomas Montemarano
239 No Long Beach Road Rockville Centre, NY 11570
Description: Façade renovations.
Premises known as: 239 North Long Beach Road
The Exterior Design Review Board OF THE VILLAGE OF ROCKVILLE CENTRE
Eugene Murray Village Hall, Rockville Centre, New York
George Bella, Chairperson of the consultants to The Exterior Design Review Board
Thomas Domanico, Secretary to The Consultants Information and records for Exterior Design Review cases are available the Office of the Secretary, 110 Maple Avenue, RVC 153251
b) To elect one member of the Board of Education at large for a three-year term commencing July 1, 2025 to succeed Donna Downing, the incumbent, whose term of office expires June 30, 2025.
c) To elect two members of the Library Board at large for three-year terms commencing July 1, 2025: (i) to succeed Michael Lucchesi, the incumbent, whose term of office expires on June 30, 2025; (ii) to succeed Meryl Sussman, the incumbent, whose term of office expires on June 30, 2025.
d) To vote upon such other propositions as may properly come before the meeting and conduct other business as authorized by law.
NOTICE IS GIVEN, that the Board of Education of the Rockville Centre Union Free School District, Nassau County, New York will hold a public meeting for the purpose of discussing the expenditure of funds for school year 2025/2026 beginning, July 1, 2025. Said meeting may result in changes or modifications to the final budget presented to the District’s voters and will be held at South Side High School, 140 Shepherd Street, Rockville Centre, New York, on April 10, 2025 at 8:00 P.M. Detailed copies of the proposed school budget will be available in each school building, the William H. Johnson Administration Building and the Public Library. NOTICE IS GIVEN that the Board of Education
May 1, 2025 —
Public Notices
will hold a public hearing on May 8, 2025 at 7:00 P.M. at South Side High School located at 140 Shepherd Street, Rockville Centre, New York, for the purpose of presenting expenditure of funds and the budgeting therefore relative to the appropriation of necessary funds to meet the necessary expenditures of said School District for school year 2025/2026, at which time and which place all persons interested in the subject matter thereof concerning the same will have an opportunity to be heard.
NOTICE IS GIVEN, that the Library Board will hold a public meeting for the purpose of discussion of the expenditure of funds and the budgeting therefore for the fiscal year 2025/2026 beginning July 1, 2025. Said meeting may result in changes or modifications to expenditures for this budget and will be held at the Rockville Centre Public Library, 221 North Village Avenue, Rockville Centre, New York on April 9, 2025, at 7:00 P.M. Detailed copies of the proposed Library budget will be available in the Library.
AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that the Library Board will hold a public hearing on May 6, 2025 at 7:00 P.M. in the Rockville Centre Public Library located at 221 North Village Avenue, Rockville Centre New York, for the purpose of presenting expenditure of funds and the budgeting therefore relative to the appropriation of necessary funds to meet the necessary expenditures of said Library for school year 2025/2026, at which time and place all persons interested in the subject matter thereof concerning the same will have an opportunity to be heard.
AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that the Annual Meeting and Election shall be conducted by voting on propositions and candidates on voting machines on said 20th day of May, 2025 commencing at 7:00 A.M. and ending at 9:00 P.M. at South Side High School located at 140 Shepherd Street, Rockville Centre, New York.
AND NOTICE IS ALSO
GIVEN that a copy of the statement of the amount of money
which will be required for the ensuing year for school purposes (School budget) exclusive of public moneys, and propositions involving expenditure of moneys and the operation of the school system for the ensuing year, may be inspected commencing on May 8, 2025 through the date of the Annual Meeting on the District’s website, in the William H. Johnson Administration Building and at each schoolhouse in which school is maintained, during the hours of 9:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. except Saturday, Sunday or holidays.
AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that a copy of the statement of the amount of money which will be required for the ensuing year for Library purposes (Library budget) exclusive of public moneys, and propositions involving expenditure of moneys and the operation of the Library for the ensuing year, may be inspected at the Library commencing on April 16, 2025 through the date of the Annual Meeting, except for holidays.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that nominations for the office of Member of the Board of Education and the Library Board, unless otherwise provided by law, shall be made by petition subscribed by at least thirty-seven (37) qualified voters of the District. Petitions shall be filed in the office of the Clerk of the School District between the hours of 8:15 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. on April 21, 2025. Such petition shall state the residence of each signer and shall state the name and residence of the candidates. Candidates receiving the greatest number of votes shall be considered elected to fill the vacancies. Where terms are of different length, the candidate receiving the highest vote shall be entitled to select the longest term. However, a nomination may be rejected by the Board of Education if the candidate is ineligible for the office or declares his/her unwillingness to serve.
AND NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that voter registration shall be permitted in the office of the District Clerk at the William H. Johnson Administration Building, 128 Shepherd Street, Rockville Centre, New York, during the hours of 8:15 A.M. and 4:30 P.M.
on school business days through May 15, 2025. AND NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the register of voters shall include (1) all qualified voters of the District who shall personally present themselves for registration; and (2) all previously qualified voters of the District who shall have been previously registered for any Annual or Special District Meeting or Election and who shall have voted at any Annual or Special District Meeting or Election held or conducted at any time within the four calendar years prior to preparation of the said register; and (3) voters permanently registered with the Board of Elections of the County of Nassau.
AND NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the registers containing the names of all persons entitled to vote at the Annual Election to be held on May 20, 2025 will be filed in the office of the District Clerk in the William H. Johnson Building, 128 Shepherd Street, Rockville Centre, New York, and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District five days prior to said Annual Election, except Sunday, between the hours of 8:15 A.M. and 4:30 P.M. on weekdays and by appointment on Saturday. The register will also be open for inspection at the polls on the day of the said Annual Election, May 20, 2025 between the hours of 7:00 A.M. and 9:00 P.M.
AND NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the Board of Registration will meet during the hours of voting at the Annual District Meeting and Election on May 20, 2025 at the polling place for the purpose of preparing a register for District meetings or elections to be held more than thirty days subsequent to May 20, 2025. Said register shall include (1) all qualified voters of the District who shall present themselves personally for registration, and (2) all previously qualified voters of the District who shall have been previously registered for any Annual or Special District Meeting or Election and who shall have voted at any Annual or Special District Meeting or Election held or conducted at any time within the four calendar years prior
to preparation of said register.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that applications for absentee ballots for the School District and Library election may be applied for at the office of the District Clerk, 128 Shepherd Street, Rockville Centre, NY 11570. Applications for absentee ballots must be received no earlier than thirty (30) days before the election. If a ballot is to be mailed to an eligible voter, the application must be received by the District Clerk at least seven (7) days before the election or an application may be picked up in person in the office of the District Clerk no later than the day before the election by the voter or his/her designated agent. Upon receiving a timely request for a mailed absentee ballot, the District Clerk will mail the ballot to the address set forth on the application no later than six (6) days before the election. Absentee ballots must be received in the office of the District Clerk by 5:00 P.M. on May 20, 2025, the day of the election. A list of all persons to whom absentee ballots shall have been issued will be available for inspection up to the day before the Annual Election in the office of the District Clerk, except Sundays, between the hours of 8:15 A.M. and 4:30 P.M. on weekdays and by appointment on Saturdays.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that pursuant to Section 2018-e of the Education Law, applications for early mail ballots may be obtained at the Office of the District Clerk of the Rockville Centre Union Free School District, William H. Johnson Administration Building, 128 Shepherd Street, Rockville Centre, New York during all days in which the District is in session. Completed applications must be received by the District Clerk no earlier than April 20, 2025 and by May 13, 2025, if the early mail ballot is to be mailed to the voter. If the early mail ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter at the Office of the District Clerk the completed application must be received by the District Clerk no later than May 19, 2025. No early mail voter’s ballot will be canvassed unless it has been received in the Office of the District Clerk of the District no
later than 5:00 p.m. on May 20, 2025. A list of all persons to whom early ballots have been issued will be available in the Office of the District Clerk’s office during office hours on and after May 14, 2025 until May 19, 2025, except on Saturday May 17, 2025, by prearranged appointment by contacting the District Clerk at (516) 2558921 or via email at mceliberti@rvcschools. org. A challenge to an early voting ballot may not be made on the basis that the voter should have applied for an absentee ballot.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the School District. Military voters who are qualified voters of the School District may submit an application for a military ballot. Military voters may designate a preference to receive a military voter registration, military ballot application or military ballot by mail, facsimile transmission or electronic mail in their request for such registration, ballot application or ballot. Military voter registration forms and military ballot application forms must be received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 25, 2025. No military ballot will be canvassed unless it is (1) received in the office of the District Clerk before the close of the polls on election day and 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 (2) received by the office of the District Clerk by no later than 5:00 p.m. on election day and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is associated to be not later than the day before the election.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that any proposition or question to be placed upon the voting machines shall be submitted in writing by petition subscribed by at least ninety-one (91) qualified voters of the District and filed in the office of the District Clerk between the hours of 8:15 A.M.
and 4:30 P.M., not later than the 30th day preceding the meeting or election at which time such question or proposition shall be voted upon, except that this rule shall not apply to those questions or propositions which are required to be stated in the published or posted notice of the meeting or to those propositions or questions which the Board of Education has authority by law to present at any Annual or Special Meeting of the District.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that Section 495 of the Real Property Tax Law requires the District to attach to its proposed budget and exemption report. Said exemption report, which will also become part of the final budget, will show how the total assessed value of the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt from taxation, list every type of exemption granted by statutory authority, and show the cumulative impact of each type of exemption, the cumulative amount expected to be received as payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) and the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted. In addition, said exemption report shall be posted on any District bulletin board maintained by the District for Public Notices, as well as on the District’s website.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the Board will convene a Special Meeting thereof within twenty-four- hours after filing with the District Clerk a written report of the results of the ballot for the purpose of examining and tabulating said report of the results of the ballot and declaring the results of the ballot; and the Board hereby designates itself to be a set of poll clerks to case and canvass ballots pursuant to Education Law S2019-a, subdivision 2b at said Special Meeting of the Board.
Dated: February 1, 2025 Rockville Centre, NY BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF ROCKVILLE CENTRE UFSD
COUNTY OF NASSAU, NEW YORK
LEGAL NOTICE AVISO DE ELECCIÓN
ANUAL DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR Y LA BIBLIOTECA DISTRITO ESCOLAR LIBRE DE LA UNIÓN DEL CENTRO DE ROCKVILLE CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que la Reunión Anual de los votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de la Unión de Rockville Centre, Condado de Nassau, Nueva York, se llevará a cabo el 20 de mayo de 2025 en South Side High School, 140 Shepherd Street, Rockville Centre, Nueva York con los siguientes propósitos:
a) Votar sobre el presupuesto anual de la Escuela y el presupuesto de la Biblioteca para el año escolar 2025/2026 y autorizar la imposición de un impuesto sobre la propiedad imponible del Distrito para los fines anteriores;
b) Elegir a un miembro de la Junta de Educación en general por un período de tres años a partir del 1 de julio de 2025 para suceder a Donna Downing, la titular, cuyo mandato expira el 30 de junio de 2025.
c) Elegir a dos miembros de la Junta de la Biblioteca en general por un período de tres años a partir del 1 de julio de 2025: (i) para suceder a Michael Lucchesi, el titular, cuyo mandato expira el 30 de junio de 2025; (ii) para suceder a Meryl Sussman, la titular, cuyo mandato expira el 30 de junio de 2025.
d) Votar sobre las demás proposiciones que se presenten debidamente a la reunión y llevar a cabo otros asuntos según lo autorice la ley.
estarán disponibles en cada edificio escolar, el Edificio de Administración William H. Johnson y la Biblioteca Pública. SE DA AVISO que la Junta de Educación llevará a cabo una audiencia pública el 8 de mayo de 2025 a las 7:00 p.m. en South Side High School ubicada en 140 Shepherd Street, Rockville Centre, Nueva York, con el propósito de presentar el gasto de fondos y el presupuesto por lo tanto en relación con la asignación de fondos necesarios para cumplir con los gastos necesarios de dicho Distrito Escolar para el año escolar 2025/2026, en cuyo momento y lugar todas las personas interesadas en la materia objeto del mismo tendrán la oportunidad de ser oídas.
SE DA AVISO de que la Junta de la Biblioteca llevará a cabo una reunión pública con el propósito de discutir el gasto de los fondos y el presupuesto para el año fiscal 2025/2026 a partir del 1 de julio de 2025. Dicha reunión podrá resultar en cambios o modificaciones a los gastos de este presupuesto y se llevará a cabo en la Biblioteca Pública de Rockville Centre, 221 North Village Avenue, Rockville Centre, Nueva York el 9 de abril de 2025, a las 7:00 p.m. Copias detalladas del presupuesto propuesto por la Biblioteca estarán disponibles en la Biblioteca.
MARYLOU CELIBERTI, DISTRICT CLERK 152636
us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
SE DA AVISO de que la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Libre de Rockville Centre Union, Condado de Nassau, Nueva York, llevará a cabo una reunión pública con el propósito de discutir el gasto de fondos para el año escolar 2025/2026 que comienza el 1 de julio de 2025. Dicha reunión puede resultar en cambios o modificaciones al presupuesto final presentado a los votantes del Distrito y se llevará a cabo en South Side High School, 140 Shepherd Street, Rockville Centre, Nueva York, el 10 de abril de 2025 a las 8:00 p.m. Copias detalladas del presupuesto escolar propuesto
Y TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que la Junta de la Biblioteca celebrará una audiencia pública el 6 de mayo de 2025 a las 7:00 p.m. en la Biblioteca Pública del Centro de Rockville ubicada en 221 North Village Avenue, Rockville Centre Nueva York, con el propósito de presentar el gasto de los fondos y el presupuesto por lo tanto en relación con la asignación de fondos necesarios para cumplir con los gastos necesarios de dicha Biblioteca para el año escolar 2025/2026, en cuyo momento y lugar todas las personas interesadas en el objeto de la misma tendrán la oportunidad de ser oídas. .
Y TAMBIÉN SE DA AVISO que la Reunión Anual y la Elección se llevarán a cabo votando sobre las proposiciones y los candidatos en las máquinas de votación el día 20 de mayo de 2025 comenzando a las 7:00 PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES To place a notice here call
Public Notices
a.m. y terminando a las 9:00 p.m. en South Side High School ubicada en 140 Shepherd Street, Rockville Centre, Nueva York.
Y TAMBIÉN SE DA AVISO que una copia de la declaración de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para el año siguiente para fines escolares (presupuesto escolar) excluyendo los fondos públicos, y las proposiciones que involucran el gasto de dinero y el funcionamiento del sistema escolar para el año siguiente, puede ser inspeccionada a partir del 8 de mayo de 2025 hasta la fecha de la Reunión Anual en el sitio web del Distrito, en el Edificio Administrativo William H. Johnson y en cada escuela en la que se mantenga la escuela, durante el horario de 9:00 a.m. a 4:00 p.m. excepto sábados, domingos o feriados.
Y TAMBIÉN SE DA AVISO que una copia de la declaración de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para el año siguiente para los fines de la Biblioteca (presupuesto de la Biblioteca) excluyendo los fondos públicos, y las proposiciones que involucran el gasto de dinero y el funcionamiento de la Biblioteca para el año siguiente, puede ser inspeccionada en la Biblioteca desde el 16 de abril de 2025 hasta la fecha de la Reunión Anual, excepto los días festivos.
POR FAVOR, TOME NOTA MÁS que las nominaciones para el cargo de Miembro de la Junta de Educación y la Junta de la Biblioteca, a menos que la ley disponga lo contrario, se harán mediante petición suscrita por al menos treinta y siete (37) votantes calificados del Distrito. Las peticiones se presentarán en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar entre las 8:15 a.m. y las 5:00 p.m. del 21 de abril de 2025. Dicha petición indicará la residencia de cada firmante y el nombre y residencia de los candidatos. Los candidatos que obtengan el mayor número de votos se considerarán elegidos para llenar las vacantes. Cuando los mandatos sean de diferente duración, el candidato que obtenga la votación más alta tendrá derecho a elegir el mandato más largo. Sin embargo, una nominación puede ser rechazada por la
Junta de Educación si el candidato no es elegible para el cargo o declara su falta de voluntad para servir. Y TAMBIÉN SE DA AVISO que se permitirá el registro de votantes en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito en el Edificio de Administración
William H. Johnson, 128 Shepherd Street, Rockville Centre, Nueva York, durante las horas de 8:15 a.m. y 4:30 p.m. en los días hábiles escolares hasta el 15 de mayo de 2025.
Y SE DA AVISO
ADICIONAL que el registro de votantes incluirá (1) a todos los votantes calificados del Distrito que se presentarán personalmente para el registro; y (2) todos los votantes previamente calificados del Distrito que hayan sido previamente registrados para cualquier Reunión o Elección Anual o Especial del Distrito y que hayan votado en cualquier Reunión o Elección Anual o Especial del Distrito celebrada o realizada en cualquier momento dentro de los cuatro años calendario anteriores a la preparación de dicho registro; y (3) votantes registrados permanentemente en la Junta Electoral del Condado de Nassau.
Y SE DA AVISO
ADICIONAL que los registros que contienen los nombres de todas las personas con derecho a votar en la Elección Anual que se llevará a cabo el 20 de mayo de 2025 se archivarán en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito en el Edificio William H. Johnson, 128 Shepherd Street, Rockville Centre, Nueva York, y estarán abiertos para la inspección de cualquier votante calificado del Distrito cinco días antes de dicha Elección Anual, excepto los domingos, entre las 8:15 a.m. y las 4:30 p.m. de lunes a viernes y con cita previa los sábados. El registro también estará abierto para inspección en las urnas el día de dicha Elección Anual, el 20 de mayo de 2025 entre las 7:00 a.m. y las 9:00 p.m.
Y SE DA AVISO
ADICIONAL que la Junta de Registro se reunirá durante las horas de votación en la Reunión y Elección Anual del Distrito el 20 de mayo de 2025 en el lugar de votación con el propósito de preparar un registro para las reuniones o elecciones
del Distrito que se llevarán a cabo más de treinta días después del 20 de mayo de 2025. Dicho registro incluirá (1) a todos los votantes calificados del Distrito que se presentarán personalmente para el registro, y (2) a todos los votantes previamente calificados del Distrito que hayan sido previamente registrados para cualquier Reunión o Elección Anual o Especial del Distrito y que hayan votado en cualquier Reunión o Elección Anual o Especial del Distrito celebrada o realizada en cualquier momento dentro de los cuatro años calendario anteriores a la preparación de dicho registro. POR FAVOR, TOME NOTA MÁS que las solicitudes de boletas de voto en ausencia para la elección del Distrito Escolar y la Biblioteca se pueden solicitar en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito, 128 Shepherd Street, Rockville Centre, NY 11570. Las solicitudes de boletas de voto en ausencia deben recibirse no antes de treinta (30) días antes de la elección. Si una boleta va a ser enviada por correo a un votante elegible, la solicitud debe ser recibida por el Secretario del Distrito al menos siete (7) días antes de la elección o una solicitud puede ser recogida en persona en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar el día antes de la elección por el votante o su agente designado. Al recibir una solicitud oportuna de una boleta de voto ausente enviada por correo, el Secretario del Distrito enviará la boleta a la dirección establecida en la solicitud a más tardar seis (6) días antes de la elección. Las boletas de voto en ausencia deben recibirse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito antes de las 5:00 p.m. del 20 de mayo de 2025, el día de la elección. Una lista de todas las personas a las que se les habrán emitido papeletas de voto en ausencia estará disponible para inspección hasta el día anterior a la Reunión Anual Elección en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito, excepto los domingos, entre las 8:15 a.m. y las 4:30 p.m. de lunes a viernes y con cita previa los sábados. POR FAVOR, TOME NOTA MÁS que de conformidad con la Sección 2018-e de la Ley de Educación, las
solicitudes de boletas anticipadas por correo se pueden obtener en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar Libre de Rockville Centre Union, William H. Johnson Administration Building, 128 Shepherd Street, Rockville Centre, Nueva York durante todos los días en que el Distrito esté en sesión. Las solicitudes completas deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito no antes del 20 de abril de 2025 y antes del 13 de mayo de 2025, si la boleta anticipada por correo se va a enviar al votante. Si la boleta electoral anticipada por correo debe entregarse personalmente al votante en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito, el Secretario del Distrito debe recibir la solicitud completa a más tardar el 19 de mayo de 2025. No se realizará el escrutinio de ninguna boleta de voto anticipado por correo a menos que se haya recibido en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. del 20 de mayo de 2025. Una lista de todas las personas a las que se han emitido boletas tempranas estará disponible en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito durante el horario de oficina a partir del 14 de mayo de 2025 hasta el 19 de mayo de 2025, excepto el sábado 17 de mayo de 2025, con cita previa comunicándose con el Secretario del Distrito al (516) 255-8921 o por correo electrónico al mceliberti@rvcschools. org. Un desafío a la votación anticipada La boleta no se puede hacer sobre la base de que el votante debería haber solicitado una boleta de voto en ausencia.
POR FAVOR, TOME NOTA MÁS que los votantes militares que no están registrados actualmente pueden solicitar registrarse como votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar. Los votantes militares que son votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar pueden presentar una solicitud para una boleta militar. Los votantes militares pueden designar una preferencia para recibir un registro de votante militar, una solicitud de boleta militar o una boleta militar por correo, transmisión de fax o correo electrónico en su solicitud de dicho registro, solicitud de boleta o boleta. Los formularios de registro
News brief
Friends, families and neighbors from throughout the village came out to support the fire department at the April 12 Margarita festivities.
Fundraisin’ away again in
The Rockville Centre Fire Department held its annual Margaritaville fundraiser on April 12 at St. Agnes Parish Hall in Rockville Centre. The event raises money for the continued training of volunteer firefighters in the village.
The Jimmy Buffett-themed event featured live music by Jimmy and the Parrots and food from Craft Kitchen and Tap House. Attendees were encouraged
Margaritaville
to embrace the island vibe by wearing tropical attire. This year’s honoree was Bruce Schwarting, a 55-year member of the department. Schwarting, who holds the title of honorary chief, has served in various roles and currently serves as department secretary.
Public Notices
de votantes militares y los formularios de solicitud de boletas militares deben recibirse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. del 25 de abril de 2025. No se realizará el escrutinio de ninguna boleta militar a menos que (1) se reciba en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito antes del cierre de las urnas el día de las elecciones y muestre una marca de cancelación del servicio postal de los Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o muestre un endoso fechado de recepción por otra agencia del gobierno de los Estados Unidos; o (2) recibido por la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. el día de las elecciones y firmado y fechado por el votante militar y un testigo del mismo, con una fecha asociada a no más tarde del día antes de la elección.
POR FAVOR, TOME
NOTA MÁS que cualquier proposición o pregunta que se coloque en las máquinas de votación se presentará por escrito mediante una petición suscrita por al menos noventa y un (91) votantes calificados del Distrito y se presentará en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito entre las horas de 8:15 a.m. y 4:30 p.m., a más tardar el día 30 anterior a la reunión o elección, momento en el cual se votará dicha pregunta o proposición, excepto que esta regla no se aplicará a aquellas preguntas o proposiciones que se requieran declarar en el aviso publicado o publicado de la reunión o a aquellas proposiciones o preguntas que el Consejo de Educación tiene autoridad por ley para presentar en cualquier Reunión Anual o Especial del Distrito. TENGA EN CUENTA que la Sección 495 de la Ley del Impuesto sobre la Propiedad Inmobiliaria requiere que el
Distrito adjunte a su presupuesto propuesto y al informe de exención. Dicho informe de exención, que también formará parte del presupuesto final, mostrará cómo el valor total de la tasación final utilizada en el proceso presupuestario está exento de impuestos, enumerará cada tipo de exención otorgada por la autoridad legal y mostrará el impacto acumulativo de cada tipo de exención, el monto acumulado que se espera recibir como pago en lugar de impuestos (PILOT) y el impacto acumulativo de todas las exenciones otorgadas. Además, dicho informe de exención se publicará en cualquier tablón de anuncios del Distrito mantenido por el Distrito para Avisos Públicos, así como en el sitio web del Distrito. POR FAVOR, TOME NOTA MÁS que la Junta convocará una Reunión Especial de la misma dentro
de las veinticuatro horas posteriores a la presentación ante el Secretario del Distrito de un informe escrito de los resultados de la votación con el propósito de examinar y tabular dicho informe de los resultados de la votación y declarar los resultados de la votación; y la Junta por la presente se designa a sí misma como un conjunto de secretarios electorales para presentar y escrutar las boletas de conformidad con la Ley de Educación S2019a, subdivisión 2b en dicha Reunión Especial de la Junta. Fechado: 1 de febrero de 2025 Centro de Rockville, NY POR ORDEN DE LA JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN DE ROCKVILLE CENTRE UFSD CONDADO DE NASSAU (NUEVA YORK)
MARYLOU CELIBERTI, SECRETARIA DE DISTRITO 152638
–Kelsie Radziski
Courtesy Rockville Centre Fire Department
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Q. Our basement is unfinished, and we plan to put in walls and a finished ceiling. We know we need an escape window, but what are your suggestions on other things, like the kind of ceiling? I’m thinking about just sheetrock, but what kind of access do you recommend for the pipes and wires I’ll need to get to?
A. There are many items to include in your thought process for finishing your basement. Mistakes are made, first, by ever assuming that the people doing the work know the laws.
The biggest problem I see is that the ceiling is just a little too low, that someone dropped the entire ceiling level just because of one pipe. The minimum ceiling height in the current code is 6 feet 8 inches clearance, with 6 feet 4 inches under the center beams, air ducts or soffits anywhere in the basement. Always leave access for shutoff valves, wiring connections, cleanouts and other controls.
If you need to move pipes that were installed without any care for your future use of the basement, move them. Piping should go around the perimeter of the basement, no matter what excuse you hear. Because of poor planning and even worse execution, pipes are the No. 1 problem, because someone thoughtlessly put them in a place that was good for them and not for you.
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The ceiling finish can be sheetrock in the larger areas with perimeter “hung” track ceilings outfitted with removable ceiling tiles. Again, even those lowered perimeter and under-beam soffits need to be no less than 6 feet 4 inches above the floor. Tall firefighters need to avoid hitting their heads when they’re running though your smoke-filled basement to rescue you or your loved ones.
Although you know you need an escape well window or exterior door entry, placement of the well in some side or front yards can cause a code violation if it’s closer than allowed to a property line. Verify your setback requirements for your zone, and even confirm that with an official at your local building department.
Many jurisdictions require a permit with plans and inspections, so don’t forget these important requirements. There are so many people who are frustrated that their contractor didn’t tell them that they needed a permit, and even worse, that they now have a violation that requires reconstruction to pass inspections. Don’t be one of those people.
Other important issues include what to do with enclosing your heating equipment, putting laundry sinks and washing machines too close to the main electrical service panel, using the wrong kind of wall studs for perimeter walls, not insulating correctly and forgetting to put handrails on the access stairs, inside and out. Heating equipment, to the code, must follow the manufacturer’s specifications. Installers rarely leave a manual. Sometimes the internet helps. There must be 5/8-inch type X gypsum board on the ceiling extending at least 1 foot in each direction around the boiler. Best of
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opinions Battery storage is key to economic competitiveness
As a lifelong Long Islander, I’ve seen firsthand what happens when our energy system fails. I lived through Superstorm Sandy and helped lead recovery efforts in its aftermath — and I don’t need to remind those who went weeks without power and spent hours on gas lines that grid resilience isn’t just a buzzword. It’s a necessity — one we must urgently prioritize.
Unfortunately, more than a decade later, the challenge not only persists, but it’s more complex than ever. The surge in electric vehicles, the rise of data centers and the electrification of homes and businesses are pushing Long Island’s energy demand to unprecedented levels. This isn’t just about the next superstorm — it’s about how we power everyday life for families and small businesses right now. Our existing grid wasn’t designed for this kind of load, and without proactive investment, we risk higher costs, decreased reliability and a system stretched to its breaking point. And the pressure is mounting. The Long Island Power Authority anticipates a steep rise in electricity demand in the
As I fight tooth and nail for every dollar, every program, every piece of support that I can secure for my constituents, a clear pattern has emerged in the performance of Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman — one that it is marred by self-promotional pageantry, misplaced priorities and big promises that ultimately collapse.
The most recent example is the failure of the NYU Langone hospital project that was supposed to rise on the campus of Nassau Community College. When Blakeman introduced it, he billed it as a multibillion-dollar economic engine that would create thousands of jobs, deliver cutting-edge medical care and provide opportunities for our students.
When it was withdrawn in March, it became just another abandoned plan — another missed opportunity that could have changed lives and transformed our economy. Questions from the public and lawmakers have been met with a lack of
coming years. Storage will be key. Planned battery storage projects in Shoreham and Hauppauge are expected to deliver 129 megawatts of capacity, enough to power 25,000 homes once they’re operational in 2028. These aren’t theoretical solutions; they’re essential to keeping Long Islanders’ lights on. And they demonstrate that the public and private sectors can work together to address infrastructure challenges with innovative solutions.
important in ensuring that clean power doesn’t go to waste.
Without it, rising demand can trigger price volatility, hurting small businesses.
Battery energy storage systems are a smart response to this challenge. By storing excess energy during off-peak times and discharging it when demand peaks, these systems stabilize the grid without requiring massive infrastructure overhauls. They help prevent blackouts, curb price spikes, and improve efficiency. In short, they let us do more with what we already have, and that’s a win for everyone.
One of BESS’s most powerful features is its flexibility. It can store energy from any source — solar, wind, natural gas — and dispatch it where and when it’s needed most. This ability to smooth out fluctuations in supply and demand is crucial not just for stability, but also for affordability. And as more renewable sources come online, storage becomes even more
And we don’t have to look far to see BESS in action. On Long Island, Brookhaven recently approved two major battery storage projects that will add more than 300 megawatts of capacity to the grid. These facilities will store renewable energy when production is high and release it during peak usage — cutting costs, improving reliability and reducing emissions. As New York state accelerates its clean energy goals, battery storage projects like these will prove to be a critical tool for making our power system cleaner, smarter and more resilient. They also mean job creation and local investment, as the clean energy economy continues to grow.
Beyond environmental benefits, BESS has an economic upside. Without storage, rising demand can trigger price volatility, hurting working families and small business owners most. Battery storage helps keep costs predictable by reducing reliance on expensive “peaker” plants. And for high-tech industries like AI, data processing and advanced manufacturing, energy stability isn’t just a bonus — it’s a requirement for doing business. The long-term economic competitiveness of our region depends on
getting this right. Of course, safety must be top of mind. Modern battery storage systems are equipped with cutting-edge fire-prevention measures, modular designs and rigorous safety protocols. Proposed updates to fire codes will go even further, requiring comprehensive emergency planning and more frequent inspections. These systems aren’t just high-performing — they’re engineered to be safe and dependable, with oversight from both developers and local authorities.
If we want Long Island to stay competitive, battery storage must become a core part of our energy strategy. That means updating regulations to enable faster deployment, incentivizing private investment and supporting community engagement. Doing nothing is not an option. The longer we wait, the more vulnerable we become — not just to storms, but also to soaring costs and system failures. The future of energy here doesn’t hinge on simply generating more power — it depends on using the power we already have more wisely. Battery storage is the bridge between today’s strained grid and tomorrow’s resilient, affordable and sustainable energy future. Let’s not wait for the next storm or the next blackout to act. The time is now.
Sammy Chu is chairman of the U.S. Green Building Council-Long Island Chapter and chief executive officer of Edgewise Energy.
Nassau has little to show for Blakeman’s big promises
transparency, and no explanation.
Just up the road from NCC, you’ll find the Uniondale Hub, where Blakeman unsuccessfully chased a casino license. Whether you supported or opposed it, you couldn’t help but notice that the pursuit was fraught. The first time it went through the Legislature, the process was so flawed that a court made him start over. The project, with his promises of jobs and tax revenues, finally fell through, and billions of dollars in promised economic development and opportunities for union workers disappeared with yet another failed attempt to develop the Hub.
accounting for how the money was used.
The same can be said of the handling of the ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup. After major portions of Eisenhower Park were closed for months, and there was the promise of an economic windfall, all Nassau got in return (from what we can tell so far) is major disruptions to the park’s operations, questions about whether taxpayers made a dime and, once again, no accountability.
H e favors political theater over policies that will address our serious issues.
Worse yet, the Blakeman administration blocked the use of project labor agreements to build the temporary stadium, squandering an opportunity to boost the livelihoods of local workers.
world-class burn center and lifesaving drug detox facilities, fails, it won’t just be a health care catastrophe — it will also be an economic earthquake. Working families will lose access to care, and thousands of jobs in the medical field could vanish overnight. Finger-pointing does not suffice as a strategy.
And let’s not forget the fundamentals: Blakeman passed a county budget that was so out of balance that it violated generally accepted accounting principles, and Nassau’s fiscal monitor forced him to fix it. The county’s most recent capital infrastructure plan was stalled for months because of Blakeman’s inexplicable refusal to fund more than $1 million in grants for first responders in Democratic districts, adding political rancor where there should be none.
These are not the only things that have vanished under this administration. Remember Blakeman’s plan to use $10 million in federal coronavirus recovery funds to promote himself under the guise of the county’s 125th-anniversary celebration? While families struggled to get back on their feet after the pandemic, his administration concluded that the best use for a significant portion of those funds was gala banquets, golf outings, fireworks and parades. Yet many of these events never happened, and there is little
The disrespect for labor is further exemplified in the treatment of CSEA employees and retirees, the backbone of our county workforce. They were promised affordable health care in exchange for their service. Instead, Blakeman gutted their benefits.
Then there’s the future of Nassau University Medical Center. Instead of delivering on promises to save the hospital, the administration has installed political cronies and further deepened the crisis. If NUMC, a Level 1 trauma center with a
As someone who is fighting to make things better for our communities, it is profoundly frustrating to pick up the pieces after an administration that prioritizes political theater over implementing policies that will address the most serious issues facing our communities. Nassau County deserves better than disappearing headlines. We deserve leadership that delivers.
Seth Koslow, who represents Nassau County’s 5th Legislative District, is the Democratic candidate for county executive.
sAMMY CHU
sETH i. KosLoW
There should be nothing but support for law enforcement
in recent weeks I have been at a number of events sponsored by police organizations, including a gala honoring 100 years of the Nassau County Police Department. I also spoke at a meeting of the Long Island Shields, which comprises retired police and law enforcement officers from New York City’s five boroughs as well as Nassau and Suffolk counties. And I attended a news conference with County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Police Commissioner Pat Ryder, at which they announced the creation of a house of worship desk, and demonstrated how drones can be deployed within minutes of mass shootings at houses of worship to determine the precise location of the shooter.
I regularly attend NCPD briefings on possible terror threats on Long Island. This isn’t new for me, since for my final almost two decades in Congress after 9/11, both as chairman and as a member of the Homeland Security Committee, I worked very closely with the New York
The lessons of the Holocaust are for everyone opinions
Last week, millions of people of the Hebrew faith observed an event known as the Shoah. It is the Hebrew word for catastrophe or disaster, and it is frequently used to refer to the Holocaust, the deliberate killing of six million Jews by the Nazi regime. While not all of us pause to formally recognize this event, it is a painful reminder of man’s inhumanity to man, and deserves to be observed every year.
I am very much aware of the need to pause to remember the Holocaust, because many members of my immediate family were either innocent victims of the Nazi killing machine or managed to escape the horror. Despite the fact that many of my aunts and uncles were Holocaust survivors, there was rarely any discussion about their experiences, because they were too painful to recount.
City and Nassau and Suffolk police departments on counterterrorism strategies and resources. Unfortunately, I was also in Congress during the summer of 2020, when we saw massive demonstrations against the police, a number of which turned violent, and the coordinated effort to “defund the police.” Tragically, I have also attended too many funerals of cops who have been shot and killed in the line of duty.
Too many people take the police for granted, or in some cases are even anti-police.
I say all this because too many people too often take the police for granted, or in some cases even join or support the anti-police movement, focusing on inappropriate actions taken by the smallest minority of police while ignoring that no one does more than the men and women in blue to safeguard all of us while respecting the rights of everyone regardless of race, creed or national origin — all while putting themselves at great risk.
While I understand why everyday people, who are busy trying to make a living and provide for their families, can overlook the outstanding work cops are doing to protect us 24/7, I have little tolerance for elected officials who enact laws or implement policies to tie the
hands of the police or, even worse, turn against them when it suits their political purposes. Support for police shouldn’t be subject to the shifting political winds. It is hypocritical to see politicians who, just a few years ago, were riding the “defund the police” bandwagon, or saying nothing in defense of the police, now shamelessly demanding more funding for more police. Similarly hypocritical are those legislators who hailed themselves for passing “bail reform” now claiming they never intended it to put more criminals back on the streets.
Recent elections have shown that everyday Americans are rallying for the police and supporting policies best described as pro-law and order. For instance, most observers, Democrats and Republicans alike, would agree that Anne Donnelly was elected Nassau County district attorney over her much more well known opponent, State Sen. Todd Kaminsky, four years ago not just because of her decades-long career as a prosecutor, but because of Kaminsky’s previous outspoken support of cashless bail, which he unsuccessfully attempted to run away from during the campaign.
Similarly, the most obvious example of this growing pro-cop sentiment was Donald Trump’s election last fall. Trump ran on a clear pro-police, toughon-crime platform, moving many traditional Democrats to cross party lines to vote for him over the party they believed abandoned them.
I must admit that my support for the police is due in part to personal dealings I’ve had with members of law enforcement over the years, beginning with my father, who was in the NYPD for more than 30 years, and friends of mine who joined the NYPD and NCPD. There were also my close dealings with all levels of law enforcement — federal, state and local — in the years after 9/11, including the officers assigned to my security detail because of foreign and domestic threats against me.
But support for law enforcement must be based on more than personal or family friendships and relationships. Very basically, it is in all of our best interests to support the men and women who — often against the odds — put themselves at risk to protect our streets and communities. It’s also simply the right thing to do.
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
Those members of my family who were survivors were blessed to live long lives even though they suffered greatly during the war. A few lived into their 90s, and my grandma Sarah lived to be 100. Some might say that for them, long life was a blessing, but I believe it was a testament to their willingness to be living examples of what they had seen so that we didn’t forget their ordeal, or the millions who didn’t survive.
M y Grandma
Sarah never spoke of her confinement until her late 90s.
At this point, I choose to write about my grandmother and my aunt Irene. On a few rare occasions, they put aside their reticence to tell us something about the horrible past. In the case of Irene, she spoke of how she had been sent to a concentration camp, along with her mother and sister. When they got there, a German soldier directed her mother and sister to go to one area, and Irene to another. After that moment, she said, she never saw them again, because their fate was sealed. Grandma Sarah had another story, but she never spoke of her confinement
until her late 90s. We had been forced to put her in the Komanoff Pavilion, in Long Beach, due to her many physical needs. On the few occasions that we visited her, she told us that “they beat me last night.” She told us many other things that we knew she would never willingly reveal if she had control of her faculties. I share these stories out of my fear for where the world is going.
Recently there was an election in Germany. Before it, Vice President J.D. Vance decided to meet with the leaders of all of the nation’s political parties. He gave special support to the far right Alternative for Germany, or AfD, party, which has strong pro-Nazi leanings. Its platform has frightened the country, and Europe in general. Vance made a plea for the party to be recognized as a partner in future governments. His visit was totally unnecessary, and sent a message to bigots around the world that their antisemitism has the approval of a White House occupant. We are currently hearing a great deal
of talk about antisemitism on college campuses as well as in the rest of America. Leaders of the Anti-Defamation League recently reported that there have been over 10,000 antisemitic incidents in the U.S. since the horrific tragedy of Hamas’s attack on Israel on Oct 7, 2023. It is believed to be the highest number of incidents ever recorded in a similar period since the ADL started tracking them in 1979.
History tells us that hate crimes don’t just single out one particular group. People of Italian, Irish, Chinese, Muslim and other backgrounds have suffered at the hands of wicked political leaders who strategically pick some group as their scapegoats. The observance of the Shoah is a stark reminder that, once again, these horror stories can be repeated, unless we are vigilant and willing to fight against hate in all forms. The forces of evil are always there waiting to strike, especially when we fail to ignore them.
Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. Comments about this column? jkremer@ liherald.com.
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Your Board of Education needs your attention
oWn Long Island and across New York state, incumbent trustees and new candidates for school district boards of education have submitted their petitions and are now on the ballot on May 20, when residents go to the polls to vote on their school budgets and capital improvement referendums, and elect their trustees.
For the next two and a half weeks, the candidates will hold forums with residents and plant lawn signs across their communities in an effort to keep their names in voters’ minds, as well as their stances on the districts’ spending plans.
While elected positions from village trustee to state legislator might appear more important and larger in scope, the decisions that shape our daily lives are frequently made on those school boards. And, from voters’ perspective, lifeimpacting decisions about where they choose to live are more often than not made based on where their children will go to school.
Quality public education not only prepares our children for bright futures, but also increases communities’ property values, attracts new residents, reduces crime and promotes social mobility.
For the 125 school districts in Nassau and Suffolk counties, boards of education, typically consisting of five to nine people, play a critical role in overseeing and shaping the educational system. Their responsibilities include creating a vision for the district, setting goals and
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establishing policies, overseeing multimillion-dollar budgets, and collaborating with administrators to help ensure the schools’ smooth operations. They must be accountable to the community, and offer regular, constructive public engagement.
Though trustees are volunteers, they are entrusted to guide the district and have a duty to represent their constituencies during their three-year terms. That includes being aware of, and understanding, the influence they wield.
All of the above are great reasons why you should care about your local school board: because its members represent the beating heart of civic responsibility, and because our schools deserve leadership that is not only competent and informed, but also reflective of and responsive to the communities they serve. Board trustees may have none of the glamour of state or national office holders, but the impact they have is often more immediate, and more personal. Their decisions don’t just affect students — they affect entire neighborhoods, in so many ways.
Residents have a responsibility to know who represents them and what those representatives stand for. That means researching school board candidates, attending their town halls, asking tough questions — making sure community concerns are heard — and judging the results with your vote. You can learn
Gillen’s ‘town hall’ wasn’t much of one
To the Editor:
U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen advertised a “Town Hall Meeting” on April 16. Sadly, it was nothing more than a performative press release with an audience. What a disappointment. and waste of her constituents’ time! A 30-minute presentation with no comments, feedback or questions from the audience.
While technically meeting the definition of a Q&A by reading pre-submitted — and perhaps prescreened — questions, Gillen answered them with superficial, pre-fabricated responses that, in some cases, matched exactly the column she wrote for the Heralds last month. We could have just stayed home and read our copy of the Herald!
Gillen told us why she chose which committees she wanted to serve on, her hope and plan to work in a bipartisan fashion, and her desire to reduce roadway deaths and dangers. She shared her reason for supporting the Laken Riley Act, which requires the Department of Homeland Security to detain illegal immigrants who commit certain crimes, but when there was criticism from the audience, the person was removed by security.
more about candidates before elections, and then their effectiveness as trustees, each week in the Herald.
nal, someone and deserves is far more
And anyone can run for their local school board. You don’t need a background in teaching, or a master’s in education policy, or to be working in a profession that has anything to do with either one. What you do need is a commitment to fairness, a willingness to listen and a passion for serving your community by providing its children with the highest-quality education possible.
Public education needs leaders who understand the complexities of modern classrooms and the myriad challenges faced by working families who have kids in school, and public servants who put the needs of students above special interests. That leadership doesn’t have to come from somewhere else. It can come from you. We need more residents to step forward — not for the prestige of being a trustee, but for the purpose.
At a time when trust in institutions is fragile and divisions run deep, school boards offer a rare opportunity to focus on unity and progress, where politics can — and certainly should — take a backseat to the shared goal of improving children’s lives.
So let this be a call not only to vote, but also to get involved. Attend meetings. Volunteer to help with a school activity. Speak up — ask questions. And if you’re ready to lead, step up. Our children are depending on us.
What was never touched on was the elephant in the room, the reason so many people wanted to attend the meeting: We are in crisis in this country, our rights are being overridden, the Consti-
tution trampled. The current administration is committing illegal acts in our name, “disappearing” people and shipping them to foreign countries where our tax dollars are used to keep them
during have a sonal experience of the behind My arrived hope and Her Galda
Not all immigrants are criminals
when we hear the term “illegal immigrant,” it’s easy to jump to the conclusion that the individual is a criminal, someone who has broken the law, and deserves punishment. But the truth is far more nuanced. For many immigrants, coming to the United States without legal documentation isn’t an act of criminality, but an act of survival — an effort to escape violence, political persecution or a situation so dire that the only option is to flee.
As the child of immigrants who fled El Salvador during its civil war in the late 1980s, I have a perspective that is shaped by personal experience and an understanding of the deeper human motivations behind these decisions.
My parents, both from El Salvador, arrived in the U.S. with nothing but hope and fear for their lives. They
understood the risks they were taking by entering this country without legal documentation, but the alternative was staying in a country where the government was killing its own people.
El Salvador’s civil war, which began in 1979, was marked by brutal violence, corruption and ruthless repression. The Salvadoran government, heavily supported by U.S. military aid, waged war against leftist insurgents and civilians it accused of being sympathetic to them.
wasn’t just about seeking a better life; it was about survival. It was about fleeing a government that viewed its citizens as expendable.
F or my parents, staying in El Salvador meant living in constant fear.
Throughout the conflict, military and paramilitary forces committed countless atrocities — massacres, forced disappearances and the destruction of entire villages. Thousands of innocent civilians were murdered or disappeared simply for being suspected of opposing the government.
For my parents, like many others, staying in El Salvador meant living in constant fear — fear of being killed, of losing loved ones, or of being caught in the crossfire of a war they had no part in starting. Their decision to leave
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detained without due process. Our confidential personal data is being taken by rogue invaders without any security clearance. Our Social Security, health care system and Medicaid are in grave danger. This was not addressed in Gillen’s “town hall.” The fear, concern and dissent were not acknowledged in any way.
While I guess we should be happy that at least there was a performance of a town hall, since so many legislators are totally ignoring their constituents, and in fact hiding from them, this event was barely better. She can and should do better!
This is not to say that I support illegal immigration or that breaking the law should be excused. But I believe it’s essential to understand the perspective of those who make the difficult decision to flee their homeland. My parents did not come here to exploit the system or cause harm. They came to escape unimaginable violence, and to find a place where they could live without the constant threat of death.
My father eventually found work managing an apartment complex in Roslyn, contributing to society, paying taxes, and respecting the country that took him in, belying the false narrative that immigrants don’t pay taxes or contribute to the economy.
My parents’ story is far from unique. Not long ago, I met a mechanic who had fled Venezuela to escape violence — just as my father had decades earlier. Like
Lane began her journey with UCP-LI as a residential manager, and has held various leadership roles in the program, including associate director. Her most recent position was director of quality management and corporate compliance. In that role she had the responsibility for incident management, quality assurance and compliance, ensuring adherence to regulatory standards.
the mechanic, my father was the only one in his family to leave, and he never got the chance to see his parents again. A few years ago, he and I stood at their graves for the first time — a painful reminder that the cost of leaving isn’t just physical, but deeply emotional and enduring. His journey wasn’t about breaking the law; it was about survival. It’s easy to forget that behind every “illegal immigrant” label is someone with a story, and usually with pain, sacrifice and hope for a better future. These people don’t come here to break the law. They come to escape the laws and systems that were oppressing them. And for every immigrant like my father or that mechanic, there are countless others who face the same impossible decision every day.
So, I ask: If you were living in a country where your government was killing its own people, where staying meant a likely death, would you remain and accept your fate, or would you flee in search of safety? Would you risk breaking the law for a chance at survival?
Hernesto Galdamez is editor of the Baldwin Herald.
by Tim Baker
LINdA ROBERTSON West
As chief program officer, Lane will oversee the planning, development, and management of all program areas, including adult day services, the Children’s Center, residential services, and a wide range of family support programs.
Hempstead
New chief program officer at United Cerebral Palsy-LI
To the Editor:
United Cerebral Palsy of Long Island would like to introduce Robin Lane as the organization’s first-ever chief program officer.
A dedicated member of the UCP-LI family since 1993, Lane has over 35 years of experience providing services to people with disabilities.
“Robin’s career with UCP is a testament to her unwavering dedication, passion and leadership,” Colleen Crispino, president and CEO of UCP-LI, said. “Her promotion is not only well-deserved, but also a natural progression for someone who has made such a lasting impact on our organization and the people we serve.”
She will also serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, where she plays an integral role in strategic planning, systems development and program innovation.
“I am honored and excited to step into the role of chief program officer,” Lane said. “UCP has been my professional home for over three decades, and I am deeply committed to advancing our mission, supporting our dedicated staff, and continuing to provide the highest quality services to the individuals and families we serve.”
Lane earned a bachelor’s degree in health policy and administration from Pennsylvania State University and a graduate degree from Stony Brook University.
For more information about UCP of Long Island and its programs, visit UCP-li. org.
JILLIAN CAVALIERI
Community relations specialist, UCP of Long Island
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Hernesto GaLDameZ
