GRADUATES
With love from the Bronx to Rockville Centre
By JANE BAGATTA Herald Intern
Love, Nana, a beloved community organization in Rockville Centre, was honored at the New York Yankees’ June 16 game against the Los Angeles Angels. The ceremony at Yankee Stadium kicked off the team’s HOPE Week, which stands for Helping Others Persevere and Excel.
Love, Nana has been helping those in need since 2020, and its storefront on Seaman Avenue has become a fixture in the village. Founded by Joan Hyland, who’s known as Nana, the nonprofit assembles bundles of new and gently used clothing, books and toys for infants and babies up to age 2 for families in need.
Backyard Players & Friends, a nonprofit founded by Hyland’s daughter, Ellen White, is connected to the organization, and provides skills training for teens and young adults with intellectual disabili -
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Track star breaks South Side High records at states
By KElSIE RADZISKI kradziski@liherald.com
Victoria Daniel, a graduating senior from South Side High School, wrapped up her high school track and field career as one of the most accomplished sprinters in the school’s history, earning AllState honors and breaking a school record that stood for over two decades.
Daniel placed fourth in the 100-meter dash and third in the 100-meter hurdles at the New York State Spring Track and Field Championships, on June 13 and 14 at Middletown High School. She clocked a time of
14.95 seconds in the 100-meter hurdles finals, surpassing the previous South Side record of 15.4 seconds set in 2004. Her semifinal time of 14.97 had already broken the longstanding record, which she then topped again in the finals.
Daniel joined spring track during her freshman year, initially hesitant to compete in any sport. She said her mom made her join the spring track team, and after noticing that it came naturally to her, she went on to compete in both winter and spring seasons throughout her sophomore, junior, and senior years.
Though joining track was
V ictoria was a key member to the success of the team.
KEITh BoSch Head track & field coach, South Side High School
not her original plan, Daniel said the experience of running and seeing her natural talent emerge is what made her stay with the sport.
“I didn’t realize I was going to be so good at it,” she said. “I liked seeing me progress and get better. And I liked what
other people were saying about my performance.”
Her path to the state championship included winning her division, conference, and county titles in both the 100 meters and 100-meter hurdles this past spring. She also met the state standard to qualify for the championships, a benchmark that allows athletes to advance
based on time, not just placement.
Daniel qualified for the state meet as a sophomore but had not reached the finals until this year. “I never placed before,” she said, “so the fact that I made it to the finals the second day, I had more confidence, and I was just surprised that I made
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Courtesy New York Yankees
The Yankees donated $10,000 to Love, Nana on the first day of HOPE Week, June 16.
Juneteenth celebration inspires civic action
By KELSIE RADZISKI kradziski@liherald.com
Rockville Centre marked a historic moment with its inaugural Juneteenth Celebration and Remembrance Ceremony, held at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center in the village’s West End. The center, where King himself visited just days before his assassination in 1968, served as a powerful backdrop for the community gathering.
The event was the vision of Ihsan Rahman, founder of the National Runaway Slaves Freedom Foundation, and was organized and hosted by Alicia James, founder of ARJ Solutions Consultancy. James, a granddaughter of longtime West End residents John and Bessie Lee Robinson, said she “convened an intergenerational crowd to celebrate history, honor community elders, and inspire a shared future.”
The Juneteenth event highlighted the legacy of Black families who migrated to Rockville Centre in the early 1900s, escaping the Jim Crow South to build a thriving, close-knit community in the West End. That legacy was disrupted during the 1960s by urban renewal projects that destroyed homes and displaced families, eroding generational wealth and stability.
Juwan Anderson, a great-grandson of John and Bessie Lee Robinson, spoke about that upheaval, quoting figures like Rev. Morgan M. Days, Ernestine Small, and Frank Shepherd from Newsday’s “More Than a Box.” Anderson urged attendees to “reject limited mindsets and embrace the strength of community.”
The celebration honored two historic institutions:
■ Shiloh Baptist Church, founded in 1907 by Glendora Hankins, was recognized for its enduring role in spiritual life and civil rights advocacy.
■ The Rockville Centre–Lakeview EOC was noted for its service to the community, especially during and after the urban renewal era.
Two of the community’s elders were also honored. Henry Dorsey, 94, shared memories of pre-renewal Banks Avenue and emphasized the importance of love, respect and faith. He received a ceremonial Sankofa staff from James. Hattie Small, 100, was recognized for her century of steadfast community presence.
Senator Siela Bynoe delivered a keynote speech encouraging civic engagement, noting that Juneteenth is not only a celebration of freedom, but also a reminder of the continued duty of community members to make their voices heard through voting.
Other local leaders in attendance included Nassau County Legislator Scott Davis and Lakeview NAACP President Doris Hicks-Newkirk.
The ceremony concluded with a powerful Remembrance Ceremony led by Mariah Smith, another Robinson descendant, who read the names of more than 200 late residents from Rockville Centre and Lakeview, paying trib-
Ursula Felton and Rosalee Fielder were two of many voluteers and community members to spend their Juneteeth at the MLK Community Center.
ute to those who laid the foundation for future generations.
Black entrepreneurship was also spotlighted at the event. Local businesses provided food, books, and services while sharing stories of resilience and growth. Among them were ARJ Solutions, The P.A.M. Project, BJones Graphics, Kionaut.com, Reed Realty Management, and Dyna Tucker Therapy. Dunns River Lounge provided catered support.
Alicia James, Brian Jones and Amirah Cummings spoke about their business journeys, encouraging investment in local communities. Youth attendees each received a copy of Cummings’ interactive book, thanks to Everett James, reinforcing the message that “the future is now.”
A display was set up at the event, outlining the history of Juneteenth, and there were coloring pages available.
Senator Siela Bynoe addressed the event lead organizer and host Alicia James, and spoke about the importance of Juneteenth.
Photos courtesy Alicia James
Everett James gifted youth attendees with copies of Amirah Cummings’ book ‘Kionaut.’
Crime watCh
UnUsUal inCident
On June 17, an Irving Place resident reported someone used their credit card information without permission.
On June 18, a Cambridge Street resident reported someone used their bank checks without permission.
leaving the sCene of an aCCident
On June 16, a motorist reported their vehicle was struck by another vehicle that fled the scene while driving in a Merrick Road parking lot.
On June 18, a motorist reported their vehicle was struck by another vehicle that fled the scene while parked in a Merrick Road parking lot.
On June 19, a motorist reported their vehicle was struck by another vehicle
that fled the scene while driving in Municipal Parking Field #1.
assaUlt
On June 19, an Old Mill Court resident reported someone punched them in the face causing an injury.
harassment
On June 20, an Old Mill Court resident reported someone punched them in the face. No injuries were reported.
larCeny
On June 16, an employee of King Kullen reported someone stole merchandise.
On June 19, a landscaper reported someone stole lawn care equipment while working at the Rockville Centre Recreation Center.
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
June 15 – June 22
General Alarms – 18
Still Alarms – 7 Rescue – 9
Aided Cases (Ambulance) – 58
Mutual Aid Fire – 3
Mutual Aid Rescue – 0
Mutual Aid Ambulance – 0
Total – 95
On June 18, the Rockville Centre Fire Department responded to a fire alarm on Rodney Place in Rockville Centre. The responding units determined that a clothes dryer in the basement was on fire and quickly extinguished the flames preventing the fire from spreading any
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 – 234
Still Alarms – 140 Rescue – 83
Aided Cases (Ambulance) – 1212
Mutual Aid Fire – 37
Mutual Aid Rescue – 1
Mutual Aid Ambulance – 3
Total – 1710
further than a portion of the basement.
Note to homeowners: please clean your lint screen prior to each use of your clothes dryer and make sure your dryer vent ducting is cleaned periodically.
Fax: (516) 622-7460
■ DISPlAY ADVERTISING: Ext. 249 E-mail: rglickman@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4643 ■ PUBlIC NOTICES: Ext. 232 E-mail: legalnotices@liherald.com
Thomas
Thomas
Thomas
Lasting Happiness in a Changing World
In April of 2015, these two Nobel Peace Prize laureates celebrated His Holiness’s 80th birthday by meeting for a week at the Tibetan leader’s exiled home in Dharamshala, India. Their purpose? To answer the question: How do we find joy in the face of life’s inevitable suffering?
“From the moment of birth, every human being wants to discover happiness and avoid suffering. Sadly, many of the things that undermine our joy and happiness we create ourselves. Often it comes from the negative tendencies of the mind, emotional reactivity, or from our inability to appreciate and utilize the resources that exist within us. We create most of our suffering. So it should be logical that we also have the ability to create more joy. It simply depends on the attitudes, the perspectives, and the reactions we bring to situations and to relationships with other people. When it comes to personal happiness there is a lot that we as
individuals can do”, says the Dalai Lama
“The problem is that our world and our education focuses on external, materialistic values. We are not concerned enough with inner values. I believe everyone has the responsibility to develop a happier world. We need, ultimately, to have a greater concern for others’ well-being. In other words, kindness or compassion, which is lacking now. We must pay more attention to our inner values. We must look inside,” he further states.
Lasting joy – joy as a way of being – arises from the serenity of deep well-being and benevolence, say the authors.
A strong sense of concern for the well-being of others will make you happy in the morning, says the Dalai Lama, even before coffee. Even ten minutes of meditating on compassion, on kindness to others, and you will see its effects all day. That’s the way to maintain a calm and joyous mind.
Book Synopsis: “The Book of Joy” — Part 1 of 4
His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Archbishop
Long Island tops NYC in All-Star Classic
By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
Donning the uniforms of the past two collegiate national champions, Ohio State and Michigan, respectively, added a special touch to last Saturday’s inaugural National Football Foundation All-Star Classic featuring the top high school seniors from Long Island and New York City at Hofstra’s Shuart Stadium.
After the Boomer Esiason Foundation enjoyed a tremendous 24-year run presenting the Empire Challenge game culminating in 2019, its replacement
made a striking debut despite real-feel temperatures in the upper 80s.
Long Island, behind Islip quarterback Brady Nash, Garden City running back Michael Berkery, Westhampton kicker/safety Brody Schaffer and a run defense as stifling as the weather, led after every quarter of a 33-15 victory before a crowd of 1,500. Nash completed 10 of 14 passes for 177 yards and two touchdowns and ran for a score to earn the Boomer Esiason Player of the Game award.
“The last time this game was played, we were all in sixth grade,” said Nash, who completed scoring strikes to Berk-
ery and Half Hollow Hills West’s Jesse Brooks. “As the week went on, it got more and more serious. You could tell how much it meant to everyone,” he added.
Schaffer went 4-for-4 on extra points, booted a 24-yard field goal and had a game-sealing interception late in the fourth quarter, and Massapequa’s Tyler Villalta added a touchdown run for Long Island, which compiled a topnotch coaching staff led by Garden City’s Dave Ettinger.
Carey head coach Mike Stanley, who led the Seahawks to last season’s LI Class II title and a perfect 12-0 campaign, served as the offensive coordinator. Reade Sands, who coached Sayville to the Suffolk Division III title last fall, ran the defense. Additional highly successful coaches on the L.I. staff were Manhasset’s Jay Iaquinta, who enjoyed lengthy stints in Lynbrook and Hewlett, Wantagh’s Keith Sachs, who led the Warriors to the Conference IV title last fall, Oceanside’s Rob Blount, Longwood’s Sean Kluber, Half Hollow Hills East’s Alex Marcelin, BayportBlue Point’s Mike Zafonte and St. Anthony’s Joe Minucci.
Angelo Portillo (Sachem North) formed a wall all afternoon.
Long Island’s lead swelled to 23-9 by halftime. An early turning point came on the first play of the second quarter when a bad snap over the head of New York City punter Andrew Stosko (Xaverian) resulted in a safety to make it 9-3.
“This is such an awesome experience for the kids,” Stanley said. “Their attention to detail in practice was outstanding and they did a really nice job of executing on both sides of the ball.”
Lincoln’s quarterback-receiver tandem of Kory Reese and Solomon DeCoteau hooked up for both New York City touchdowns.
New York City/Erasmus Hall head coach Danny Landberg said logistics were a challenge and several obstacles prevented the team from having a full roster at any practice. “It was fun to be a part of this but it was really difficult to come to Long Island two hours each way for practices,” he said. “We made four of the eight sessions and attendance varied.”
Long Island trailed 3-0 before Nash directed an 11-play, 68-yard scoring drive capped by his 2-yard touchdown run. The starting O-line with center Clint Chichester (Longwood), tackles Dylan Kakareko (Oceanside) and Howie Silverstein (Carey), and guards Brennan Kurtz (Ward Melville) and
Carey’s Chrisian Todaro returned the ensuing free kick 26 yards to the NYC 35 and Long Island’s offense needed only four plays to take a 16-3 lead on Villalta’s 2-yard touchdown run. Both offenses reached paydirt on their next possessions. A 40-yard pass from Reese to another Lincoln teammate, Gicah Paul, set up DeCoteau’s 12-yard touchdown grab to cut the margin to 16-9 after a failed two-point conversion try. Long Island answered with Berkery’s 37-yard touchdown catch.
Long Island’s defense, led by run stuffers Bellport’s Trevon Holland and Wantagh’s Shareef McMillian, pitched a shutout in the third quarter and Schaffer’s field goal extended the lead to 26-9 entering the fourth.
Freeport’s Curtis Ealy III and Bayport-Blue Point’s Dylan Spano had sacks for Long Island, which outgained NYC by a 339-232 margin.
“We got the win and it was so much fun,” Nash said. “I’m a Notre Dame fan but it’s cool we get to keep these jerseys.”
Michael Berkery (Garden City) had one of Long Island’s touchdowns, a 37-yard reception in the second quarter.
photos by Derrick Dingle/Herald
Long Island’s Dillon Tveter (Oceanside) avoided New York City’s Saquonne Lawton (Curtis) during last Saturday’s National Football Foundation’s All-Star Classic.
Mount Sinai South Nassau is Improving Health Care on the South Shore
The new Fennessy Family Emergency Department at Mount Sinai South Nassau doubles the size of our previous emergency department, o ering 54 private exam rooms with clear lines of sight for physicians, nurses, and support sta . Our new emergency department also o ers a separate triage area, dedicated areas for children and behavioral health patients, and has been designed to reduce wait times and improve patient outcomes.
The Fennessy Family Emergency Department is located within the new Feil Family Pavilion, opening later this year, which will have 40 new critical care suites and nine new operating rooms, designed to support the most complex surgeries on the South Shore.
To learn more visit www.mountsinai.org/feilpavilion
Driving the future:
Southern State upgrades and the role of responsible driving
By MADISON GUSLER & CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD of the Heralds
Final part in a series on the Southern State Parkway.
State.
In April, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced a $7 million plan to reconfigure ramps at Exit 15 of the parkway. The state will eliminate the southbound exit ramp, and all traffic will exit via a redesigned northbound ramp. Exit 15N will consolidate both north- and southbound traffic entering the intersection at Corona Avenue. The changes aim to improve traffic flow for the more than 8,000 vehicles that use those ramps each day.
The Southern State Parkway is one of the busiest highways in New York state. It opened in 1927, and its original design has not been able to meet the demands of Long Island’s increased population and consistent roadway congestion, which has resulted in many deadly crashes.
Nearly 100 years later, work on the 25.3-mile parkway has ramped up, in an effort to ensure the roadway’s safety, and longevity.
Stephen Canzoneri, a public information officer for the state Department of Transportation Region 10, noted that New York has one of the most aggressive road and bridge renewal programs in the United States, and that it is investing more in the modernization of its transportation infrastructure now than at any point in the state’s history.
Upgrading Infrastructure to improve safety
Canzoneri explained that a $34.1 billion, five-year capital plan adopted in 2022 to invest in major infrastructure projects is the largest of its kind in state history. This plan, which is entering its fourth year, includes substantial investments in modernizing roads and bridges on Long Island, including the Southern
At the end of the ramp, a new traffic signal will be installed, as well as crosswalks, a pedestrian refuge island, and Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant sidewalk ramps. The westbound connection to the parkway from Corona Avenue will be enlarged for easier left turns, accompanied by improved signage to better direct drivers.
There will also be a reconfiguring of Exit 13, with a new single exit ramp providing access to both Central Avenue and Linden Boulevard. The entrance ramp from Central Avenue to the eastbound Southern State will be rebuilt, the traffic signal will be updated with pedestrian countdown timers, and the sidewalks along Central Avenue, between Stuart Avenue and Linden Boulevard, will be improved. This project is currently in the design phase, with construction expected to begin construction in 2027 Enhancements at Exit 41A, from the eastbound Southern State to the northbound Sagtikos State Parkway, include increased safety measures. In 2024, new
U.S.
reflective signs were installed and pavement markings were added. This year the ramp will undergo concrete pavement work, and a new concrete barrier will be installed.
Between 2021 and 2024, a significant portion of the parkway and several ramps were resurfaced with new asphalt, and highly reflective pavement markings were installed in an effort to increase driver safety. In an email to the Herald, Assemblyman Michael Durso, whose District 9 encompasses towns in both Nassau and Suffolk counties, wrote that in 2023, Wrong Way and Do Not Enter signs were refreshed or installed at all parkway ramps.
“Safety is always the top priority of the New York State Department of Transportation,” Canzoneri said. “We
continuously review safety measures in place on all our highways on Long Island and across the state, implementing enhancements wherever it is necessary.”
Safety improvements rely on responsible driving Canzoneri noted that safety is everyone’s responsibility.
“Working with our partners in law enforcement, local government and the community, we will continue to do our part to ensure the safety of our roadways. But motorists must do their part,” he said. “We urge everyone to obey the rules of the road, drive responsibly and remain alert, especially in work zones.”
Durso echoed Cazoneri’s sentiment
Traffic building on a typical day on the westbound Southern State Parkway.
Office of Congresswoman Laura Gillen
Rep. Laura Gillen speaking on driver safety.
Planners hope to create a safer Southern State
that safety is a shared responsibility, writing that “all of the wrong way crashes that occur along the Southern State Parkway have involved impaired drivers.”
However, Durso noted an ongoing effort to address roads that have become unsafe. “As Assemblyman, I continue to work with the New York State Department of Transportation to pass along concerns from constituents and identify areas that can be improved,” he said. “Safety is my top priority.”
U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen, who represents the 4th Congressional District, which includes Exits 13 to 28 on the parkway, serves on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, as well as the Science, Space and Technology Committee. Gillen recently sent an open letter to Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy about a spike in traffic fatalities.
Working with our partners in law enforcement, government and the community, we will continue to do our part to ensure the safety of our roadways, but motorists must do their part.
STEPHEN CANzONERI State Dept. of Transportation
“Traffic crashes are the single leading cause of accidental death among young people on Long Island, and the second-leading cause for all residents under the age of eighty,” she wrote. “Every seven minutes on average, a serious traffic accident happens on Long Island. The failure to secure our roads has led to thousands of lives being cut short, families being ripped apart, and a terrible void left in too many communities.”
Gillen urged Duffy and the DOT to open an investigation into these accidents, and advocated for larger investments to improve roadways and increase driver safety. She is also pushing for the state to lower the legal blood alcohol limit.
“Many road safety groups have endorsed lowering our drunk-driving limit to a blood alcohol content of .05,” Gillen wrote in an email to the Herald, noting evidence that lowering the limit reduces the number of accidents and saves lives. She noted that the state of Utah, which lowered its drunk-driving threshold to .05 in 2018, saw a nearly 20 percent drop in fatal car crashes over the next calendar year.
“There is already a push to bring this limit to New York at the state level, and I’m exploring federal options to make this the law of the land across America,” she wrote.
Gillen also mentioned distracted
SOUTHERN STATE PARKWAY - EXIT 15
New York State Department of Transportation
a draft of plans for the Southern State parkway’s exit 15, where two exits are being replaced by one.
the parkway near exit 13. “We need to increase high-visibility traffic enforcement,”
driving and speeding motorists. “My plan to make our roads safer includes stepping up enforcement on reckless and dangerous driving,” she wrote.
“That means giving our law enforcement agencies the tools and resources to police unsafe driving.”
Gillen stated that it’s crucial that
drivers reduce their speeds. “No matter what day or time you drive on the Southern State Parkway, there are people recklessly speeding and street racing,” she wrote. “We need to increase highvisibility traffic enforcement, and I’ll continue to push for New York State to increase the number of troopers on the
Southern State Parkway and other Long Island roads to keep people safe.”
“It’s important to remember that safety is everyone’s responsibility,” Durso wrote. “We remind residents to abide by the posted speed limit, put down your cellphone, and never drink and drive.”
Tim Baker/Herald
u.S. rep. Laura gillen says.
Eat Shop Rock brings flavor and fun to RVC
Local eateries, businesses and bands had a chance to shine on Sunday during the Eat, Shop, Rock event, hosted by the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce.
The June 21 festival featured a variety of vendors and food options as well as a live band from School of Rock, along Park Avenue between Sunrise Highway and Lincoln Avenue. Games, including cornhole and basketball, were set up along the street for attendees to play, and raffles were available as well.
Pop-up shops were opened by local stores to showcase their offerings and restaurants to feed hungry attendees, and other tents hosted local organizations and sponsors.
Molloy University was the main sponsor of the event, through their communiversity initiative that connects the university to community programs and events. Their tent offered information and resources on their Madison Theatre, Speech, Language and Hearing Center and Mental Health Clinic.
The event, aimed to bring the community together and support local businesses, was brought back after a fouryear hiatus.
To learn more about the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce and what they offer, visit RockvilleCentreChamberOfCommerce.com.
–Kelsie Radziski
Tim Baker/Herald photos
The Chamber of Commerce ran the event for the first time since 2021. The chamber was represented by secretary Carol O’Leary, left, president Ed Asip, Susan Gatti, treasurer Tom Bogue and Marian Thomsen.
Ruby Munzing, 5, and Wes Munzing, 11, enjoyed the face painting and basketball at the street fair.
Molloy University was the main sponsor of the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce’s Eat Shop Rock event on June 21. The university was represented by Matt Gibbons, left, Hia Datta, Joanne Ascher, communiversity liaison Debra McCarthy and Neal Lewis.
Hannah Flores, 3, and Jackson Flores, 5, feasted on ice cream from Ralph’s to cool off in the sun.
Local organizations set up tents at the fair, including SIBSPlace, represented by Kayla Douglass, left, executive director Joanna Formont and Susanne Bennett.
Theodore Knigge, 2, worked on his golf skills during the event.
HOPE Week shines spotlight on Hyland
ties.
“I was initially overwhelmed by all the attention,” Hyland told the Herald, “but as soon as I met Jason Zillo” — the Yankees’ vice president of communications and media relations — “Aaron (Judge), Fernando (Cruz), Paul (Goldschmidt) and the rest of the Yankee players and their families, I was immediately put at ease. Being recognized during HOPE Week was such an incredible honor for me, Love, Nana and the Backyard Players friends and family.”
Before the game, Hyland and her family, Yankees players and coaches and Backyard Players members and volunteers put together “baby bundles,” packages of clothing and other products to be donated to other organizations on Long Island, in New York City and in New Jersey.
During HOPE Week, the Yankees honor those who inspire the New York community in a variety of ways.
Bthat it really hit home for me, getting the chance to help some families in need, give them clothes, books, bibs. It’s just amazing work what the Backyard Players and Love, Nana are doing.”
eing recognized during HOPE Week was such an incredible honor for me, Love, Nana and the Backyard Players friends and family.
Joan Hyland Founder, Love, Nana
According to the team’s website, “On each of five consecutive days … the Yankees shine a spotlight on a different individual, family or organization worthy of recognition and support. Each day is designed so honorees can share their inspirational stories with Yankees players, fans and the media, while being surprised with the day of their dreams.”
“When HOPE Week started, going through all the different options, I circled this one,” Judge, the Yankees’ captain, said in a video posted on the team’s Facebook page, referring to Love, Nana, “thinking
Before the game against the Angels, Hyland threw the ceremonial first pitch to pitcher Fernando Cruz. Hyland wore a custom Yankees jersey that read “Nana” across the back that her grandson Joseph gave her a week before the game.
“When Aaron Boone told me that I would be throwing out the first pitch, my first thought was that I couldn’t do it,” Hyland said. “I saw my grandchildren watching, many of whom are athletes, and I was hoping I could at least get it across the plate.”
The New York Yankees Foundation also donated $10,000 to Love, Nana to help fund its continued service to the community.
“HOPE Week reminds us that hope isn’t just an idea — it’s an action,” White said, “an action that you can show up for every single day. Just like Nana and the Backyard Players do.”
Hyland expressed her gratitude for the experience, and the recognition Love, Nana will get from this exposure.
“I meet wonderful people coming through my door,” she said, “and now, because of the Yankees, more and more people will find out about us, more and more people will be helped, and I’m so grateful.”
To learn more about Love, Nana, go to BYPandFriends.com.
Courtesy Joan Hyland
Joan Hyland sported a custom ‘nana’ Yankees jersey at the June 16 game against the Los angeles angels as she threw out the first pitch.
Daniel will continue running at Albany
it this far.”
She noted that even though she didn’t think she would advance in the 100 meters, she still made the finals. She ultimately finished with times of 12.46 seconds in the 100-meter final and 14.95 in the 100-meter hurdles final.
Iliked seeing me progress and get better
Among her favorite memories at South Side were racing alongside her best friend, Amelie McLaughlin, another South Side senior, and member of the track team — “We ran our last race together [and] I joined hurdles because of her” — and mentoring the younger track runners in ninth and tenth grades.
VIctorIa DanIel
Graduating senior, South Side High School
“They gave me words of encouragement, because they look up to me,” she said.
South Side head coach Keith Bosch praised Daniel’s leadership and athleticism from the championships and throughout her time at high school.
“Victoria was a key member to the success of the team. We always knew that when she was on the track, we had the best chance of winning,” Bosch said. “She mentored the younger runners and hurdlers to help develop their skills. She will be greatly missed, and we wish her nothing but the best.”
Patrick Maguire, the district’s Director of Physical Education, Health and Athletics, also acknowledged her standout performance at the championships.
“Victoria Daniel’s performance at the NYS Spring
Track & Field Championships was truly outstanding. To come in 4th in the 100M and 3rd in the 100M Hurdles against the state’s best tells you about her incredible dedication, talent, and hard work,” Maguire said. “We are so proud of her achievements and the way she represented South Side High School.”
CERTIFIED COIN CONSULTANT
Daniel, who earned All-County honors as part of the 4x100 meter relay team and was a county champion in both her individual events, will attend the University of Albany this fall, where she plans to study biology and pursue pre-dental studies. She plans to continue running Division I track during college.
Courtesy Rockville Centre school district
Coach anthony Zito, left, coach marisa Buckley, Victoria daniel, coach Keith Bosch, director of physical education, Health and athletics patrick maguire and principal patrick Walsh celebrated daniel’s track and field achievements.
If you’ve been holding onto old jewelry, coin collections, or luxury watches, there’s never been a better time to cash in. Gold prices have hit record highs—recently soaring past $3,400 an ounce—prompting a surge of smart sellers looking to turn forgotten valuables into financial opportunities.
Whether it’s broken gold chains, estate pieces tucked away in a drawer, or a collection of coins passed down through generations, Collectors Coins Jewelry & Watches in Lynbrook is helping local residents get top dollar, sometimes within minutes.
“We’re seeing more people than ever walk through our doors with old jewelry, shocked at how much it’s worth,” says Jason J. of Collectors Coins Jewelry & Watches. “One customer came in expecting a few hundred dollars and left with several thousand.”
At Collectors, all evaluations are done on-site—no shipping, no long waits, no uncertainty. From 9k to 24k gold, they pay close to current market value with transparent pricing and no pressure.
What You Can Sell
• Gold & Precious Metals – Bring in gold of any karat, whether it’s a single earring or a collection of rings and necklaces. You’ll receive a professional appraisal
and competitive offer based on today’s soaring market.
• Coins & Bullion –
OU.S. silver coins (pre1965 dimes, quarters, half dollars), gold bullion, American Eagles, Canadian Maple Leafs, Chinese Pandas, African Krugerrands, and full collections—all are welcome. From loose coins to mint sets, Collectors offers immediate payment and fair evaluations.
ne customer came in expecting a few hundred dollars and left with several thousand.
JASON J., Collectors Coins Jewelry & Watches
• Luxury Watches – Vintage chronographs from the 1950s, Rolex, Omega, Cartier, and Patek Philippe watches—even those without papers or boxes—can be worth thousands. Collectors’ team evaluates brand, condition, and market demand to get you the best possible return.
• Jewelry & Diamonds – From designer names like Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, and David Yurman to vintage diamond engagement rings, Collectors buys both individual pieces and full collections. They evaluate more Collectors buys both individual pieces and full collections. They evaluate more than just melt value—considering design, brand,
and resale potential.
• Sterling Silver –Turn unused flatware, tea sets, trays, bowls, and candlesticks into cash. Collectors buys by weight, purity, and collectible value.
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RVC ‘rises up’ for Ryan Patrick O’Shea
By JANE BAGATTA Herald Intern
Community members and supporters gathered at the St. Agnes Parish Center for the Ryan Patrick O’Shea Foundation’s 7th annual “Rise Up for Ryan” fundraiser, uniting the Long Island community in support of suicide prevention and mental health awareness.
The June 7 fundraising event served dinner and drinks and featured dancing and raffles. Local band Jerry and the Newcomers provided the live music. The profit from the tickets was donated to the organization.
Various people spoke throughout the evening. John O’Shea, Ryan’s father and co-founder of the organization along with his wife Mary, spoke about their son and the mission of the foundation.
Other speakers included John O’Shea’s cousin Michael Smyth, a member of the board of the foundation and Debbie Caputo. Caputo is a mental health specialist who does the training for two suicide prevention programs, Sources of Strength, a program for schools, and Assist, a program for law enforcement.
Local officials, including Deputy Mayor Kathy Baxley and Legislator Scott Davis, were in attendance as well.
“I can think of no better way to honor Ryan’s memory than their efforts to support an organization that gives
those who are in crisis the tools to improve their lives and put an end to self-destructive behaviors,” Davis said.
“It is always a pleasure to support ‘Rise up for Ryan’ and I am deeply grateful to Ryan’s friends and family for their commitment to this life-saving work.”
One aspect of suicide prevention the foundation is trying to communicate to the public is the 988 Suicide & Crisis Hotline.
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“We’re really encouraging the 988 number,” O’Shea said. “Instead of having a long number to dial to get some help…now you can just get help just dialing 988.”
The organization has also worked with the MTA to have placards with the 988 number at the base of the stairs at the Rockville Centre Train Station platform.
“We’re trying to get them on all the
platforms on Long Island,” O’Shea said. “There are still a lot of people, as simple as it is and as much as it’s out there, a lot of people don’t know anything about 988.”
O’Shea wanted attendees of the fundraiser to know that “you’re not alone in what you go through.”
“Everybody goes through struggles. Some people it’s harder than others, but I hope that everybody gets out of it that there is a way to get help, whether it be through your own personal sources of strength or the assist of 988, talk to people,” he said. “Talk saves lives.”
The Ryan Patrick O’Shea Foundation is a non-profit organization that seeks increase mental health awareness and educate the community to help prevent suicide, according to its website. It was created to honor Ryan O’Shea, an 18-year-old Rockville Centre resident who died by suicide in 2019.
The foundation is known for incorporating fun events into its ongoing conversation about mental health. For the past six years, the organization has hosted a three-on-three basketball tournament and Suicide Awareness Walk, as O’Shea was a star player and captain of the South Side High School basketball team. In March, the foundation was the spotlight charity for a New York Islander’s game, with some of the proceeds from the tickets of the game’s 50/50 raffle going to the organization.
Courtesy Ryan Patrick O’Shea Foundation Friends and neighbors supported the cause and advertised the 988 hotline for suicide and mental health crises.
brief
ULTIMATE TICKETS
SWEEPSTAKES
One lucky member of the audience will WIN 4 TICKETS to watch Long Island Ducks vs Hagerstown Flying Boxcars at Fairfield Properties Ballpark.
Sunday, August 17 at 5:05 p.m.
Contest ends August 10th midnight with the winner chosen on August 11th
Directions for ticket acquisition will be explained when winner is contacted.
Scan this QR code https://www.liherald.com/mets-tickets-contest.html?#//
RVC Chamber of Commerce president Ed Asip, left, and Mayor Francis Murray celebrated the grand opening with the owners at the ribbon cutting in May.
Cafe opens new location in RVC
Mayor Francis Murray and the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce joined the owners of The Flour Shoppe Cafe to celebrate the opening of their new location at 41 S. Park Avenue.
The café has been supplying Rockville Centre with delicious food and drinks since 2015. It serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and specializes in pas-
tries and coffee.
The Flour Shoppe Cafe is known for its welcoming and friendly staff and hospitality towards customers, according to the village, and this new location will expand the business and make it a staple in Rockville Centre.
–Jane Bagatta
One lucky member of the audience will WIN 2 TICKETS to watch New York Mets vs San Fransisco Giants at Citi Field.
Sunday, August 3 at 1:40 p.m.
Contest ends July 27 at midnight with the winner chosen on July 28
Directions for ticket acquisition will be explained when winner is contacted.
Courtesy Village of Rockville Centre
STEPPING OUT
From fire to water
Embracing Indigenous tradtion at Long Island Children’s Museum
By Danielle Schwab
The proud culture and legacy of Shinnecock Nation will be full display soon, representing the region’s cherished heritage. Everyone is invited to celebrate the arrival of a newly crafted dugout canoe at the museum, on June 30.
The Arrival Ceremony — 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. — is an opportunity for connection with our Indigenous community. Traditional songs, music and remarks from community leaders and culture bearers provide gratitude, context and a spiritual welcome as the canoe is greeted at its new home. Families can also participate in hands-on activities and sample traditional Native foods.
• June 30, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
• View the LICM events calendar at licm.org for additional information or call (516) 224-5800
• Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City
The 10-foot 500-pound white pine mishoon, commissioned by Long Island Children’s Museum, was created through the collaboration of Shinnecock Cultural Steward Chenae Bullock, her mentor Darius Coombs of the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe and apprentice Shane Weeks of the Shinnecock Nation.
Named “Pewea Koowa,” or “Little Pine,” the vessel reflects the enduring relationship between Long Island’s waterways and the Indigenous communities who have lived in balance with the region’s waterways for generations.
“One of the most important things is for us to understand that the indigenous population is still here, as an active, living part of our community. We’re often taught ‘that’s the old times’ or ‘that was hundreds of years ago,’ when actually, no, they’re here. They’re part of us,” Museum President Erika Floreska says.
Carving the mishoon involves deep care — rooted in ancestral knowledge. It was crafted by hollowing out a 1,700-pound white pine tree using fire, controlled burning and hand tools — a method passed down through the generations.
“The best way to learn is to be an apprentice, because you have to know how to identify the right tree for the vessel,” says Bullock, who guided the project (her seventh mishoon) as lead artisan.
“You strip the bark off. You get the log right where you want it to be. Then, you roll it over and begin to start the fire on top of the log,” Bullock explains. “Once you light that fire, your eyes do not leave that mishoon at all. You are on that mishoon until it is complete.
“Paddling a mishoon in Shinnecock waters was a profoundly special experience for me. Throughout my life, I have crafted numerous mishoons, participated in a handful of maiden voyages, and paddled in many of them. However, this particular journey was unparalleled, as it took place in my home waters. Water holds memory, and I believe that in this moment, we unlocked memories for our community, as well as for the land and water that we cherish.”
Symbols carved into the vessel offer further cultural meaning. Bullock added a whale tail to honor the importance of whales in Indigenous life here.
“It begins to teach the kids what these mishoons were used for. It’s kind of hard for people to think about how our ancestors took these mishoons and actually hunted whales. Whales are a big part of our culture,” Bullock adds.
The mishoon will be placed in the museum’s upcoming permanent exhibit, “Saltwater Stories: We Need the Sea and the Sea Needs Me”, opening In October.
“It’s important to celebrate what makes Long Island unique and this connection to the ocean, but also our responsibility for taking care of it. The mishoon is a really good representation of the history, the ecology and the climate,” Floreska says.
In the spirit of reciprocity, resources for a second mishoon will be gifted to the Shinnecock community in September.
“The tradition of gifting and showing reciprocity in relationships is very important to represent the balance between each other. The idea of them gifting [the mishoon] to us, us gifting to them, is very symbolic,” she adds.
Everyone can also contribute to the making of a wampum belt from quahog clam shells, led by artist and educator Tecumseh Caesar during the event.
This ongoing collaboration between Indigenous communities and the museum offers meaningful ways for families to explore deep connections — not only to the land and water, but to histories that continue to shape the present.
“There’s a whole culture that we’ve inherited and that we have a responsibility to include and think about as we all work together to shape the future,” Floreska reminds us all.
Get The Led Out
Led Zeppelin fans, rejoice! Get The Led Out returns with “A Celebration of the Mighty Zep,” for two electrifying nights of classic rock, The six veteran musicians who make up the Philadelphia-based group delivers Led Zeppelin live with the all passion and fury these bluessoaked, groove-driven rock anthems deserve. Hailed for their powerful tribute to what many consider the greatest rock band of all time, the band delivers a faithful and highoctane recreation of Zeppelin’s iconic sound. From thunderous anthems to mystical acoustic ballads, GTLO captures the full range of Led Zeppelin’s brilliance — complete with the layered instrumentation and soaring dynamics that the band rarely performed live. . With no wigs or phony accents, just pure musical passion, GTLO focuses on the legendary band’s early years and dives deep into beloved hits and rare cuts alike. Their approach is reverent and precise, more like a classical concert than a cover band — a true celebration of timeless rock.
Friday and Saturday, June 27-28, 8 p.m. $75, $45, $35. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
Paula Poundstone
Get ready for an evening of razor-sharp humor and brilliantly unpredictable comedy with the one and only Paula Poundstone. When she’s not dishing out laughs as a beloved panelist on NPR, she’s hosting her wildly popular podcast, Nobody Listens to Paula Poundstone. It’s a quirky “comedy field guide to life,” filled with offbeat segments like taste tests, “cat of the week” tributes, and interviews. Her stand-up résumé is as robust as it is hilarious, with HBO specials like “Cats, Cops and Stuff, Goes to Harvard” and “Look What the Cat Dragged In.” In 2017, she added “bestselling author” to her list of accomplishments with “The Totally Unscientific Study Of The Search For Human Happiness “— a laugh-out-loud account of her quirky quest for joy. Oh, and if her voice sounds familiar to your kids? That’s because she played Forgetter Paula in “Disney/Pixar’s Inside Out.”
Friday, June 27, 8 p.m. $65, $55, $45. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.
Your Neighborhood CALENDAR
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Independence Day Salute to Veterans Concert/ Fireworks
Town of Hempstead’s annual extravaganza features a concert with The Commodores. Contest sign-ups are open for the volleyball tournament, sandcastle building competition, and the ever-popular hot dog eating contest. These contests are followed by a heartfelt tribute to local veterans, concert and a spectacular fireworks and drone display. Rain date is June 29.
• Where: Town Park Point Lookout, Lido Beach
• Time: Starting at 3 p.m.
• Contact: townofhempsteadevents.com
On Exhibit
Nassau County Museum of Art’s unveils its new exhibition, “At Play,” a survey of artists’ perennial fascination with entertainment in all forms. Framing this topic between the nineteenth century Belle Époque and today, the exhibit includes works by Pablo Picasso, Reginald Marsh, Everett Shinn, and Max Beckmann among many others. Works are gathered to represent a wide range of expressions, from entertainment-related activities to the fascinating personalities involved. It encompasses dance, music, theater, movies, circus, boating, and beach scenes, along with horseracing and various sports, both active and passive Also featured are archival items from The Metropolitan Opera and the New York Philharmonic, including costumes by Marc Chagall for Die Zauberflöte, vintage fashion items by such designers as Alfred Shaheen, and iconic costumes from the FoliesBergère in Paris. On view June 28 to Nov. 9.
• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor
• Time: Ongoing
• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337
JULY 10
He said, she said
• Where: Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
TD Bank ‘Celebrate America’ Eisenhower Park welcomes the annual TD Bank Celebrate America Fireworks and Show. Enjoy tunes with Chicken Head and Glenn Strange Band, followed by fireworks. As always, bring seating. Rain date is July 5.
• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow
• Time: 5:30 p.m.
• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov
JULY
Splish Splash…
Animal Baths
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Kiwanis Bicycle Challenge Ride in support of others. The Nassau Bicycle Challenge (formerly Nassau to Suffolk Bicycle Challenge) supports the work of the Kiwanis Club of North Shore Foundation. It supports charities such as Kiwanis Pediatric Trauma Center, Pediatric Lyme Disease Foundation, Kamp Kiwanis, NOSH, Boys and Girls Club and charities aligned with those of Kiwanis International
Share in some lively repartee when four stand-up comedians — two men, two women, two are married, two are single — sling comedy barbs at one another in The Ivy League of Comedy’s “Skirmish of the Sexes.” The troupe — known for their elite brand of clever comedy as seen on late-night TV and Comedy Central appearances — is armed and ready with high-brow, clean fun. Laugh the night away wty tales of love and not-love, bad dinners and good dates, broken cars and unbroken dreams. Check out this lively comic take on the age-old dichotomy of who’s right and who’s wrong — done with panache and good humor. The lineup features Tony Deyo, known for his sharp, quick material and near-perfect comedic timing almost certainly gained from his years as a professional symphony musician; Calise Hawkins, a single mom who stands out with her hair, but also her smile and her onstage likability. Also Shaun Eli, rightfully called one of America’s smartest comics. Whether it’s a story about dining with a vegetarian or successfully fighting a parking ticket in criminal court, master storyteller Shaun Eli shows you that there’s hilarity in the ordinary. And Ophira Eisenberg (pictured), host of the comedy podcast Parenting Is A Joke with iHeart and Pretty Good Friends, who delivers a unique blend of smart irreverent standup and storytelling. $40, $30.
“Serving the Children of the World”, including Kiwanis’ signature programs of Klothes
4 Kids, Koats 4 Kids and Kicks
4 Kids. The beautiful ride through the Gold Coast features picturesque vistas and water views. Choose from a 25 mile loop with 1,060 feet of vertical climb or the more challenging ride with an additional 10 mile loop, totalling 35 miles, with 1,600 feet of vertical climb. Routes are clearly marked and ride is equipped with a rest stop. Snacks and water provided. Sponsorships also available. Online registration ends June 24, but walk-ins are welcome. Online registration is $50, day of is $60.
• Where: Starting at Harry Tappen Beach, Sea Cliff
• Time: Staggered starts, rain or shine
• Contact: n2nbc.org
Art of Poetry: Readings by Nassau County Poet
Laureates
Visit Nassau County Museum of Art for this inaugural poetry event. Join current Nassau County Poet
Laureate, writer-musician-educator
Alan Semerdjian who hosts readings by former Laureates
Paula Curci, Evelyn Kandel, Linda Opyr, and Gayl Teller. Readings will respond to the artwork on view
in NCMA’s new exhibition “At Play – Artists & Entertainment.” Pre-registration recommended. $15, $10 seniors, $5 children, members free.
• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor
• Time: 4-6 p.m.
• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337
JULY
1
Rockville Centre Board of Education meets The Board of Education holds its reorganization and public work session.
• Where: South Side High School, 140 Shepherd St.
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: rvcschools.org
JULY
3
Lets move at Mercy Mercy Hospital invites everyone to walk for health and do simple movement exercises at specific locations around the Mercy campus. Lets make this season your healthiest yet. Walking is the easiest way to be the healthiest version of you. Studies have shown that it can
• Contact: (516) 767-6444 or landmarkonmainstreet.org
drastically improve your health and even help prevent ailments such as Type 2 diabetes, cancer and heart disease. With free blood pressure screening, exercise demonstration and giveaways.
• Where: 1000 North Village Ave., Rockville Centre
• Time: Ongoing Thursdays, noon–1 p.m.
• Contact: chsli.org/mercyhospital
Little Learners Art Lab
Each week in this engaging workshop, participants are introduced to hands-on materials, artmaking, and inspiration from artists and techniques. Young kids, ages 2-5, build critical thinking skills, expand vocabulary, and support imaginations as they play, create and explore. This week families create a vibrant firework painting. $4 with museum admission.
• Where: Museum Row, Garden City
• Time: 11:30 a.m.-noon
• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800
Stargazers
Join members of the Astronomical Society of Long Island for a nighttime skywatching session at Old Westbury Gardens. Free with admission.
6
Hang out with some Long Island Children’s Museum’s “residents. Join an animal educator in the Hive Studio in the Feasts for Beasts Gallery to observe animal bath time and learn what goes into the care of LICM’s animals.
• Where: Museum Row, Garden City.
• Time: 1:30-2 p.m.
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
JULY
Hearing screenings
9
HearingLife of Rockville Centre visits Rockville Centre Public Library with free screenings.
• Where: 221 N. Village Ave.
• Time: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Contact: rvclibrary.org
Afternoon tunes
Visit Eisenhower Park’s Field #1 for its Noontime Concert Series, featuring the Just Nuts Band.
• Where: Field 1, East Meadow
• Time: Noon
• Contact: For more, call (516) 459-7060
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.
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Courtesy Kim McGuigan
Novello died in 2019, and her mother, Kim McGuigan, keeps her love of dancing alive through the Jamison Novello Scholarship at the Broadway Dance Center.
Students dance forward with Jamison’s legacy
By JANE BAGATTA Herald Intern
Students at Broadway Dance Center in Manhattan recently received scholarship money to continue their training, thanks to the Jamison Novello Scholarship Fund.
On June 8, Novello’s mother, Kim McGuigan, and her siblings, Carter, Beckett and Brooks, presented $14,000 in scholarships to BDC students at a recent BDC showcase as a part of the Jamison Novello Scholarship Fund. The scholarships are given to students in BDC’s Children and Teens program. Novello was a dancer at BDC and trained there five days a week.
“Jamison loved Broadway Dance Center,” Allie Beach, Director of Educational Programs at BDC, said. “She just loved dance. She had a light about her every time she stepped into the studio and it was very evident that dance was something special and meaningful to her and that BDC specifically was a place that she was able to share that joy openly with everyone around her.”
Every spring, students at BDC can apply to receive the Jamison Novello Scholarship. Applicants write an essay about a challenge they have faced and how they overcame it, and McGuigan reads the submissions and picks the recipients.
This year there were five recipients, and they were awarded $2,800 each.
“It offers dancers who may not have had the chance to maybe train in the capacity that they would like to take more classes and train with us on a deeper level,” Beach said.
The $2,800 each dancer received has much more significance than a simple dollar amount — it serves as a reminder of Novello.
“Her birthday was on [September] 28th and we get 28s constantly as a
Jamison Novello Still Sparking Foundation
■ For more information on the Jamison Novello Scholarship, visit BroadwayDanceCenter.com.
■ For more information on the Jamison Novello Still Sparkling Foundation, visit JamisonsDream. com.
sign,” McGuigan said.
Talking about the significance of the scholarship in her daughter’s name, McGuigan said, “It absolutely makes a difference for these families, for these kids. The gratitude is absolutely palpable from every single kid that wins.”
Jamison Novello, 15, was a South Side High School sophomore who died by suicide in March of 2019. She enjoyed going to the beach, hanging out with her friends and especially dancing.
The Jamison Novello Still Sparkling Foundation, the charity founded in Novello’s honor, also recently raised a total of $48,040.98 for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention as of June 4th.
As of the June 8 showcase, the Jamison Novello Scholarship Fund has raised over $150,000 in scholarships for students at BDC.
“She had a pure and bleeding heart and that’s what she would want,” McGuigan said about her daughter.
The bake sale held every year in Novello’s honor will be on Sept. 13 at 35 Burtis Ave. in Rockville Centre.
Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT AS TRUSTEE FOR PRETIUM MORTGAGE ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST ARTHUR EDWARDS, ELIZABETH EDWARDS
AKA ELIZABETH MC ARDLE, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered December 16, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on July 14, 2025 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 259 Lincoln Avenue, Rockville Centre, NY 11570. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Rockville Centre, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 38, Block 347, Lot (s) 380 & 381. Approximate amount of judgment $723,702.12 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Inde x #609188/2019. Karen C. Grant, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 18-009233 85792 154026
LEGAL NOTICE Public Notice to Bidders
Sealed Bids will be received by the Purchasing Department of the Village of Rockville Centre, One College Place, Rockville Centre, New York for the matter stated below until 11:00 am prevailing time on JULY 10, 2025 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud.
The contract will be awarded as soon thereafter as practicable for: 2025 ANDOVER ROAD RESTORATION
Bid No. 2507CP1(1155)
The contract documents, specifications and plans can be examined on the Village’s website at www.rvcny.gov. Follow the link to the Purchasing Department. Each bid must be accompanied by a certified check, bank check or bid bond payable to the Incorporated Village of Rockville Centre in the amount of five (5%) percent of the gross amount of the bid. All questions should be directed to the Purchasing Department. Please contact Lisa Strazzeri via email only at Lstrazzeri@rvcny.us. Questions must be submitted no later than July 3, 2025. All contractors and subcontractors submitting bids or performing construction work on public work projects or private projects covered by Article 8 of the Labor Law are
Floral fun sprouts funds for Bethany House
More than 130 guests gathered in Rockville Centre for the 4th Annual Bethany House Garden Tour, celebrating local beauty while supporting the organization’s mission to end homelessness on Long Island.
Participants strolled through some of Rockville Centre’s most stunning private gardens, each one hosted by docents outfitted in styles by NYDJ and marked by vibrant balloon displays by Balloon Remedy Design. The tour culminated in a luncheon at the Rockville Links Club, where guests enjoyed a floral arranging demonstration by Keith Linsalata of Art Flower and Gift Shoppe in Rockville Centre.
required to register with the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) under Labor Law Section 220i and must include a copy of the registration with their bid response. Award of Contract will be made to the lowest responsible bidder in accordance with applicable provisions of the law. The Village reserves the right to reject all bids or make such determination as in the best interests of the Village, as provided by law.
Purchasing Department Lisa Strazzeri Purchasing Agent 516-678-9213 154292
a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS
Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Old Town Hall, 350 Front Street, Room 230, Second Floor, Hempstead, New York on 07/02/2025 at 2:00 P.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:
CASES RESTORED TO CALENDAR AT 2:00 P.M. 438/22. - 439/22. NR ROCKVILLE CENTRENassau Suffolk LLC (Desmond Dsouza -
Variances, subdivision of lot, front width from & on street line to front setback line, lot area, maintain partially constructed dwelling & garage; Appeal the determination of the Acting Commissioner of the Department of Buildings in denying application as a subdivision of lot., E/s Langdon Blvd., 80’ N/o Yale Ave. or 80’ S/o Cornell Ave., a/k/a 1345 Langdon Blvd. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550. This notice is only for new cases in Rockville Centre within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it.
“This was the fourth time we’ve had it,” Anne DeGruttola, Bethany House’s Director of Administrative Services, said of the June 11 event, citing that the first year only saw a crowd of 50 to 60 people. Since then, the fundraiser has blossomed to over 100 participants, which led to a total of $11,000 raised for Bethany House.
Over 130 people came to the event to tour gardens and learn how to craft flower bouquets, all while supporting Bethany House.
salata’s bouquets and a grand prize garden installation donated by Maroney Landscaping, rounded out the event.
Linsalata’s floral tutorial captivated the audience full of people looking to learn the art of flower arrangements.
“When he was doing those tutorials, you could hear a pin drop,” DeGruttola said. “Everyone was so engaged with what he was doing, and they said that they loved the event.”
The arrangements he created were also raffled off, with all proceeds going to Bethany House.
“I think that that helped us really increase our fundraising initiatives for the event this year,” DeGruttola said.
Art Flower and Gift Shoppe also donated a flower cart filled with blooms for guests to create their own arrangements, with proceeds benefiting Bethany House. Raffle prizes, including Lin-
“We were so thankful, especially for the support of PSEG and also Keith from Art Flower and Gift Shoppe,” DeGruttola said.
The event’s success was made possible by the work of volunteers like Jane McCabe, Bethany House’s volunteer coordinator, DeGruttola said, who collaborates with local real estate agents throughout the year to scout ideal garden locations for the annual fundraiser.
“I think it was one of our best ones yet,” DeGruttola said. “It was really great.”
Bethany House, based in Baldwin and Roosevelt, provides shelter and supportive services to homeless women and children on Long Island. To learn more, visit BethanyHouseServices.org.
–Kelsie Radziski
Photos courtesy Anne DeGruttola
Anne DeGruttola, left, Cindy Brahms, Vicki Rhodes, Catherine Casella and Tammy McWalters were docents dressed in NYDJ for the June 11 fundraiser for Bethany House.
Art Flower and Gift Shoppe in Rockville Centre, owned by Keith Linsalata, donated a flower cart for participants to make their own floral arrangements.
Help Wanted
Alterations Seamstress
Flexible P/T, Experienced For Women's Clothing And Gowns. Work From Home. Must Have Proper Sewing Machine And Be Able To Speak And Read English. Lawrence Location. Text 516-314-4810
AUTO SALES
Gregoris Subaru Seeking Responsible Mature Individual To Join Family Run Dealership Will Train The Right Person Sales Experience Preferred But Not Necessary Salary, Commission, Benefits $50K-$75K/ Year 516-825-8700, Ask For Jay
DRIVING INSTRUCTOR
Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome! $22 - $27/ Hour Bell Auto School 516-365-5778 Email: info@bellautoschool.com
Health Care/Opportunities
HEALTHCARE WORKER with 40Yrs Experience Working with the Aging/ Geriatric Population is Seeking Position Caring for a Senior with Flexible Scheduling. 516-640-4204
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Q. Our house was damaged by a fire over 10 years ago, renovated and finished. We are now refinancing, and discovered we have no “closed” permits for the work. Our bank says that they can’t continue processing until plumbing, electrical and building permits are finalized and we give the bank a copy of our certificate of occupancy. We aren’t sure why this happened, and we can’t reach the contractor or the plumber. We got a certificate that our electric was inspected. Can you explain what to do, how this happened and how long this could take? The bank is pushing us to get this done.
A. Speed and control of the project are the reason this happened. People doing construction need to get in, get out and get paid, and often there is little attention to documentation. Construction, with permits, has many steps that can be ignored. It’s rewarding to work with people in construction who respect the process.
Even with your emergency repair, the whole job, from planning to final paperwork, had to be done completely. The concern about time, and how quickly plans can be made and a permit received, sets the tone for the rest of the work. In his “Poor Richard’s Almanac,” Benjamin Franklin phrased it well: “Haste makes waste.” Rushing through planning can lead to delays if the plans are incomplete. At each step, it seems, speed is of utmost importance. Banks, lawyers, insurance companies, contractors, real estate salespeople and building officials all have an interest, at some point, in moving you through the process of pushing for plans to be finished, a permit to be obtained and the construction work commenced. But plans and permits aren’t done by pushing a button on a computer. By diminishing this part of the process and only concentrating on getting the work done, other important parts are also ignored.
The back end of the job is making sure that each step of the work was inspected, and passes inspections. Covering up work before it is inspected is very common and done with purpose, often to avoid losing time, covering up inferior work or because the customer isn’t as important as their wallet.
You needed a full outline, a checklist, to follow through. The checklist would have shown you needed a final electrical inspection, for which you received a written certificate; a final plumbing inspection, which your plumber was required to arrange; and a final building inspection, which your contractor should have arranged. After the final inspection, you would have then received the final document you needed.
You’ll need to call your building department and confirm what inspections are needed. If you can’t find the plumber, you’ll need to either request the final plumbing inspection or spend the money to have another plumber follow through with starting the paperwork over again. Once these have been done, you’ll request the final building inspection walk-through, and hopefully thereafter receive the final certificate of completion. Good luck!
© 2025 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
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opinions Saying goodbye to Bernie Kerik
Former New York City Police
Commissioner Bernie Kerik died recently. In many ways, Bernie’s death marked the beginning of the passing of an era. He was the commissioner when New York was attacked by terrorists on Sept. 11, 2001, and he became a symbol of New York’s resistance and courage with his leadership in the days, weeks and months afterward.
Before becoming commissioner, he was a heroic police officer and detective, receiving numerous departmental awards, including the Medal of Valor.
Rosemary and I were proud to call Bernie our friend, in good times and bad. And there were some bad times, primarily when he was imprisoned for ethical crimes for which he was later pardoned. A number of us believed that he had been targeted for prosecution, and that his sentence was excessive. But Kerik would be the first to admit he was no saint. He did his time and went on with his life. Besides occasionally getting together with him for dinner, I looked forward to the massive barbecues he hosted for police officers and veterans
at his home in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey. I believe in judging people on the entirety of their lives. For those who knew him or even just observed him, Kerik passed that test. The respect and admiration for him were amply demonstrated by the crowd of mourners at his funeral Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, who shared memories of Bernie — especially his loyalty to friends, his patriotism and his unwavering leadership after 9/11.
In addition to Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the attendees included law enforcement officials, government leaders and well-known New Yorkers.
HCairo and I went after President Trump’s Madison Square Garden rally. On the day of the funeral, Kash described Kerik as a “titan among men” and “our warrior in the Colosseum when the world needed saving.”
e came to symbolize New York’s courage in the aftermath of Sept. 11.
The day of the funeral, Rosemary and I arrived early. Among the first people we met outside the cathedral was famed journalist and media personality Geraldo Rivera, a longtime friend of Kerik’s. Rivera and I spoke about the times we spent with Bernie during his tough days, and how tough he was during those days.
Also outside the cathedral was FBI Director Kash Patel. The last time I had seen Kerik was with Patel last October at Il Milano Restaurant in Manhattan, where County Executive Bruce Blakeman, county Republican Chairman Joe
Former Mayor Rudy Giuliani and FDNY Commissioner Tom Von Essen, the city officials who were closest to Kerik in leading New York back after 9/11, appeared heartbroken and devastated. Current Mayor Eric Adams also attended, and I commended him for authorizing this ceremonial tribute to Kerik.
I also spoke with the NYPD’s longest-serving commissioner, Ray Kelly, and current Commissioner Jessica Tisch. Kelly succeeded Kerik, and served for 12 years as commissioner. I met Tisch when she served as Kelly’s deputy commissioner for information and technology.
The NYPD Pipes & Drums performed, and many hundreds of NYPD officers lined up to pay their respects. Before the Mass began, Rosemary and I had the chance to meet in the cathedral with Dolan, a true man of God and a man for all seasons who always supports the efforts of the men and women in blue.
The hearse carrying Kerik’s remains arrived outside the cathedral as the bag-
pipes blared. Then the flag-draped coffin was carried up the steps of the cathedral to be blessed by Dolan, who led the funeral procession of family members and friends up the center aisle to the altar. Rosemary and I sat with Joe Lhota, formerly Giuliani’s deputy mayor, who is now chief of staff at NYU Langone Medical Center.
The funeral was definitely a celebration of Kerik’s life, best summarized by an opening sentence of NYPD Chaplain Msgr. David Cassato’s eulogy, which elicited laughter and knowing smiles as he patted the coffin: “Each of us has a Bernie Kerik story.” Kerik’s brother and his son Joe, a hero Newark SWAT team cop, also delivered moving eulogies.
At the conclusion of the funeral, Kerik’s coffin was carried from the cathedral. Taps was played. The American flag was taken from the coffin and presented to Bernie’s widow, Halla, by Patel and Giuliani. Accompanied by the pipe band playing “America the Beautiful,” the hearse headed slowly south on Fifth Avenue. A man who had done so much to lead New York through its darkest hour was leaving the arena. But the memories would remain. Bernie Kerik, R.I.P.
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
We need to stop the attacks on America’s elected leaders
Alot of people are upset about the recent reports of the murder of the former speaker of the Minnesota legislature. If there is a list of concerned citizens, please put me at the top. Having served in elected office for 23 years, I have good reason to be worried about the fate of thousands of public officials who dedicate their lives to serving us. We are living in very sick times, and it’s time for the American people to become a part of the solution and not the problem.
Less than two weeks ago, a deranged man took it upon himself to launch a carefully orchestrated campaign to kill elected officials in Minnesota. He created an enemies list and armed himself with AK-47s and other deadly weapons. You will note that I do not describe his victims and intended targets as Democratic lawmakers because party affiliation does not give potential murderers a free pass to kill only certain people.
DThe Minnesota horror show coincided with the eighth anniversary of the mass shooting during a practice session for the Congressional Baseball Game in Alexandria, Virginia. U.S. Rep. Steve Scalise, a Republican, suffered serious injuries that have left him with permanent disabilities. His attacker also shot three other people. It is coincidental that Scalise’s attacker was angry with Republicans, and the Minnesota killer had grievances with Democrats.
These events are part of a long history of people acting out of hatred for elected officials. In January 2011, U.S. Rep. Gabby Giffords was shot during a constituent meeting in Casas Adobes, Arizona. Six innocent people were killed that day. The assassin was Jared Lee Loughner, who had a longstanding grievance with Giffords. He is currently serving a life sentence in prison.
sylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro by setting fire to the governor’s mansion. Sadly, today, whether you’re a Democratic or Republican official, there’s a target on your back and there are an abundance of people out there who want to harm you.
emocrat or Republican, there are lots of people out there who want to harm you.
Some people think the solution to this madness is providing more security guards for certain officials. That easy fix would cost taxpayers billions of dollars, and is not the solution. Instead, the first step is to voice loud criticism of anyone who supports violence against any elected official. Shortly after the Minnesota slaughter of two innocents, Utah Republican Sen. Mike Lee baselessly suggested that their assassination was connected to the political left.
remarks. If they go uncensored by the Senate leadership, America is the loser. The second solution to this constant wave of horror is very much in the hands of the political establishment, starting with President Trump, who has escaped two attempts on his life. It is incumbent on him to set a new tone against violence by either side. While the nation might be split politically, a president who speaks out on this issue is doing all Americans a favor.
Aside from my worry for the people who currently serve the people, I am deeply concerned about the impact these attacks will have on potential candidates for public office. I think if I were interested in running for the first time, my family would be begging me to reconsider. If qualified people decide that being an elected official is too dangerous, the country, and our system of government, will be the losers.
Since that time there have been countless cases of violence against public officials. President Trump has been the target of two assassination attempts, and just two months ago, another deranged person attempted to kill Penn-
“This is what happens when Marxists don’t get their way,” Lee wrote on his personal X account with an image of suspected murderer Vance Boelter. In a follow-up tweet, he wrote “Nightmare on Waltz Street” in a misspelled reference to Minnesota Democratic Gov. Tim Waltz. Lee’s comments were met with a firestorm of complaints, but to date he has not retreated from his inflammatory
It is my fervent hope and prayer that this cycle of violence will end, but it won’t be without all Americans being a part of a new crusade.
Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. Comments about this column? jkremer@ liherald.com.
Jerry Kremer
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Summer is too deadly for teen drivers
Summer should be a time of freedom, fun and new experiences for young people. But for teenage and young-adult drivers, the warmest months of the year come with a chilling nickname: the 100 Deadliest Days.
During this span, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, fatal crashes involving teen drivers spike significantly. The reasons are numerous and well documented — but the solutions are equally clear and achievable, if families and communities act with urgency.
Between 2019 and 2023, 13,135 people nationwide were killed in crashes involving teen drivers. One more person per day died in those crashes during the summer than at any other time of the year, according to an American Automobile Association analysis of accident data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Why is this time of year so deadly for young drivers?
The first and most obvious reason is increased time on the road. School is out, teens have more freedom, and that translates to more hours behind the wheel — many of them without adult supervision. This newfound autonomy can lead to increased exposure to risky situations, especially for drivers still learning the nuances of safe vehicle operation, who often create those situation.
Then there are the social factors. Summer is filled with gatherings, beach trips and late nights with friends. Often, teen drivers are not alone in the car, so
letterS
Suozzi gets it
To the Editor:
It was refreshing to see a Democrat, U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi, offering ideas about the concerns of everyday people in his op-ed last week, “Centrist Democrats need to listen, learn and lead.”
Suozzi wrote a column not once bashing President Trump.
He went one step further. He sent a letter to the president about working together to address border security, immigration reform and a path to legalization, and the release of a bagel manager from Port Washington who was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Working with the president may not make Suozzi popular with his fellow Democrats, but the majority of the people approve of both parties cooperating.
It’s what the people want, not about the power of the parties.
Recent developments involving Iran are more reasons why we should heal our divi -
each fatal crash involving a teen has the increased chance of claiming a number of lives. The distractions of conversation, music, phones and peer pressure can divert a driver’s attention at exactly the wrong moment. Reading and sending text messages, as well as watching and recording TikTok and Instagram videos, while driving are accidents waiting to happen, too.
Inexperience compounds the problem. As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has noted, teen drivers are still developing the judgment and skills they need to respond to rapidly changing road conditions. They may fail to recognize hazards, misjudge distances or respond too late to hazardous situations. Add common behaviors such as speeding and driving under the influence, and it becomes clear why summer teen crash statistics rise so predictably.
Other risks are more situational, but just as serious: unfamiliar routes, fatigue from erratic summer sleep schedules, heat-related vehicle problems and heavy seasonal traffic. Each of those factors can test a teen’s ability to maintain control behind the wheel.
What can, and should, parents do without unnecessarily limiting their children’s freedom? First, set clear rules about when, where and with whom they can drive. That includes enforcing curfews and limiting the number of passengers that can accompany them. Research has consistently shown that the presence of more than one teenager in a car increases the risk of a
crash.
Second, lead by example. Teens model the behavior they see. Parents should avoid using phones while driving, follow traffic laws and show that safe driving is a lifelong habit — not just the subject of a lecture.
Open, honest communication is also vital. Conversations about the dangers of drinking, drugs and distracted driving should be ongoing, not one-time talks. When teens understand the reallife consequences of risky driving, they’re more likely to make responsible choices.
Technology can help, too. Apps that provide driving feedback and location tracking — like those recommended by Family1st GPS — offer an added layer of safety and accountability. These tools aren’t about spying; they’re about creating a support system.
Emphasize safety basics: always wearing a seatbelt, obeying speed limits, and keeping eyes on the road and off the phone.
The 100 Deadliest Days will continue to claim many more lives than they should until families, schools and communities step up. Public service campaigns, driver education refreshers and localized policies — like New York state’s Zero Tolerance law, which dramatically reduced the allowable blood alcohol content for drivers under age 21 — can make an impact.
This summer, let’s treat teen driving safety like the urgent public health issue it is — and make sure that the road to adulthood isn’t cut short by tragedy.
No one with a disability should get left at the curb
As a state senator representing parts of Nassau County, I have found that my favorite part of the job is constituent affairs. I look forward to engaging with residents to learn firsthand about the urgent issues they are dealing with and to connect them with available resources. Twice during my first legislative session, residents reached out about situations in which the state lacked resources to meet their needs. In response, I was able to write legislation to mitigate their circumstances.
In one case, I sat down with the Long Island Center for Independent Living to discuss the barriers that people with disabilities face — specifically the severe lack of wheelchair-accessible taxis outside New York City. For the many thousands of New Yorkers who rely on wheelchairs, something as basic as calling a cab is frustrating and can even be downright dangerous, if not impossible.
In response, I proudly introduced and
passed legislation through the Senate to help ensure that our wheelchair-accessible vehicle — or WAV — infrastructure meets the needs of every passenger. The bill, S7611A, would take the essential first step of creating a statewide definition of what constitutes a WAV, including safety features and requirements such as the measurements and load-bearing capacity of the vehicle’s lift or ramp.
The legislation would further require the state Department of Transportation to assess the availability of WAVs across the state and bring counties to the table to formulate plans to right this wrong.
Fo r those who rely on wheelchairs, even calling a cab can be a major frustration.
In addition, the bill would examine the creation of a grant program or tax incentives to help taxi fleet owners and drivers with the cost of purchasing or modifying their vehicles to meet the newly established requirements for wheelchair accessibility. The DOT study would shed light on how many people outside New York City are reliant on wheelchairs, and the number of accessible vehicles currently in use. This information would allow stakeholders to address shortfalls with greater precision.
Letters
sions. There are many external actors who would like to see our country torn apart. We shouldn’t make it so easy for them.
TONY GIAMETTA Oceanside
Enough of subminimum wages
To the Editor:
Organizations in New York can pay a person with a disability as little as 5 cents hour, and it is legal. This must end.
It’s time for the state to eliminate the subminimum wage and treat people with disabilities with the fairness they deserve. The State Senate has passed Bill S.28 to do just that, and now it’s time for the Assembly to act before their session ends.
As the father of a young man with Down syndrome, I’ve seen firsthand what people with differing abilities can accomplish when given the chance. My son, John Cronin, co-founded a business with me, John’s Crazy Socks, and we have learned that hiring people with differing abilities isn’t charity; it’s good business. More than half of our employees have a disability. They work hard, produce extraordinary results, and earn the same wage as their colleagues.
The subminimum wage law, a relic of 1938, allows people with disabilities to be paid as little as 5 cents an hour. That’s not just outdated, it’s wrong. It tells people that their labor, and their lives, are worth less.
New York should lead the nation by ending this discriminatory practice. No more second-class workers. No exceptions. I urge the Assembly to pass S.28 and help build a more inclusive and just future for all.
MArk X. CrONIN Cofounder and president, John’s Crazy Socks Farmingdale
The Americans with Disabilities Act has been in effect for more than 30 years, and has fundamentally reshaped American society to be more inclusive, paving the way for a 2014 settlement case requiring New York City to make at least half of its 13,000 yellow cabs, and all new cabs entering the fleet, wheelchair-accessible. While that was an important step forward, there are still gaps that we must address statewide. A 2019 report found that wheelchair accessibility was the most common concern among state residents when it came to ridesharing network accessibility.
Every day when wheelchair users request a ride, they’re met with inaccessible vehicles, untrained drivers or simply no options at all. Many live with the constant anxiety of not knowing whether they’ll be able to get home, facing the very real possibility of being stranded for hours, sometimes late into the night, in unfamiliar or unsafe places. In desperation, some are left with no choice but to call an ambulance just to get home — a costly, inappropriate option that further strains our already overburdened emergency medical services. This bill would
work to address this desperation and help bring Long Island into the modern era.
This problem goes far beyond a simple inconvenience. It is a systemic failing that limits our neighbors’ access to jobs, medical care, social connection and civic participation. When wheelchair users can’t count on basic mobility, many of their rights are functionally denied.
The solution doesn’t have to be complicated. The vehicles are attainable. The technology exists. What’s lacking is the investment of effort and funding and the political will to meet the urgency of this matter in order to achieve greater equity. We must prioritize looking after one another, especially our most vulnerable, because that should be the core of who we are.
My job is to be a voice for our community, and to act when there is a threat to the dignity and safety of those I represent. I’m proud to have had unanimous support in the Senate to advance legislation that would help tackle these inequities, and look forward to making further progress next session in this crucial fight for inclusion.
Let’s make it clear that in New York, no one gets left at the curb.
Siela Bynoe represents the 6th State Senate District.
sieLA Bynoe
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Dancing at Juneteenth Freedom Day — Uniondale High School
