Seaford Herald 06-05-2025

Tim Baker/Herald

Wings over Jones Beach

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds soar over Jones Beach during the Four Leaf Air Show on Memorial Day weekend. Thousands of South Shore beachgoers gathered to witness the spectacle. Story, more photos, Page 10.

Construction underway to revive East Bathhouse at Jones Beach

By CHARlES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com

Construction is well underway on the historic East Bathhouse at Jones Beach State Park, with a reopening planned for summer 2026.

Thanks to a $100 million investment by the state, the almost century-old building, which has been closed for almost two decades, will turn into a state-of-the-art swimming facility. State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said the updates will modernize the area for a safer swim location but will retain some of its original structure.

“We want to maintain that historic integrity,

but we need to modernize it for the common day visitor,” he said.

The revitalization converts the bathhouse’s Olympic-size pool into a small pool for children and beginning swimmers, as well as a playground complete with splash pads — ground nozzles that spray water upward.

According to Simons, these upgrades will help new generations learn to swim with their families, without having to go into the ocean.

“We’re going to have new concession spaces, we’re going to have some park offices, a lifeguard station here,” Simons said. “We’re going to have an experience where people sit out there with

Free speech is the highlight of league meeting

By CHARlES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com

What exactly does the First Amendment protect — and what doesn’t it cover?

That was the focus of a recent discussion led by attorney Christine Quigley at the Levittown Public Library, where community members gathered to help unpack one of the most debated parts of the U.S. Constitution.

Quigley, a member of the Nassau County Bar Association, was the featured speaker at a meeting hosted by the League of Women Voters of East Nassau, where she aimed to clarify common misconceptions about free speech, freedom of the press, and other First Amendment rights.

damental freedoms central to American democracy. It guarantees the rights to freedom of speech, religion, the press, peaceful assembly, and to petition the government. These protections form the foundation of civic life in the United States, though their interpretation continues to evolve through legal challenges and court rulings.

I hope that we know that you certainly can petition your government.

PEggy StEIN Member, League of Women Voters

The league is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization dedicated to protecting and expanding voting rights while empowering voters through education and advocacy. During the May 21 meeting of the East Nassau chapter — representing communities such as Wantagh, Seaford, Levittown, Bellmore, Merrick and East Meadow — Quigley focused her remarks on the scope and limitations of the First Amendment.

The First Amendment, ratified in 1791 as part of the Bill of Rights, protects several fun-

According to Quigley, the First Amendment prohibits Congress and state governments from making laws that infringe on speech and other protected rights — but it does not apply to private companies. That means employers can generally set their own rules around speech in the workplace, unless a government entity is involved.

“In order to have a constitutional challenge to say ‘you’re infringing on my rights,’ you first have to determine what’s the governmental actor here,” she said.

What happens when a public school tells its student body that it must participate in morning prayers? Quigley said that while prayer itself isn’t inherently wrong, the problem arises when a government institution sends a message — especially to young, impressionable minds — that a partic-

News briefs

Tree planted in memory of William

tion for the unique tree and wanted to commemorate him in a meaningful way.

A new tree now stands in front of Wantagh High School, planted in memory of William Desroches, a beloved student and athlete who died suddenly in 2023 at the age of 15.

On the morning of May 3, family, friends, and the 2025 Wantagh Boys Varsity Lacrosse Team gathered under clear skies to remember Desroches, who was one month shy of his 16th birthday when he passed away while on vacation in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire. He would have graduated from Wantagh this June and was expected to play on the varsity lacrosse team this season.

The tree, a “Flamethrower” redbud, was donated and planted by Tree Health, the company where William worked. Tree Health’s owner, Peter Felix, is a 1984 Wantagh graduate and former varsity lacrosse player. His son, Hunter Felix, a 2018 Wantagh alum and former lacrosse player, also works at the company and led the effort to honor Desroches with the planting. According to William’s mother, Kathryn Walsh, Hunter remembered William’s admira-

The team wore shirts reading “Wantagh Lacrosse 22” and featured William’s personal motto: “Where there is a Will there’s a way.”

Peter Felix and Wantagh varsity lacrosse coach James Polo both spoke during the ceremony. Coach Polo, who taught William in elementary and middle school physical education and later in high school health class, described him as kind, generous, and determined.

“He thought very highly of William and vowed to always remember him,” Walsh said.

Members of William’s family attended the ceremony, as did members of the varsity lacrosse team and close friends. The tree planting came the morning after William was honored at the team’s senior game.

The tree will serve as a lasting reminder of Desroches’ presence in the school community.

— Charles Shaw

Courtesy Kathryn Walsh

A tree was planted in front of Wantagh High School on May 3 in memory of William Desroches, a beloved student and lacrosse player who died in 2023.

Courtesy Levittown Public Schools

flags

in front of Levittown Memorial Education

neighbors

Seaford Memorial Day parade honors heroes

Seaford residents gathered on Monday, May 26, to pay tribute to fallen service members during the community’s annual Memorial Day parade and ceremony.

The parade began at Nelson Verity Plaza, with participants marching up Washington Avenue to Seaford Middle School. The procession concluded at the Four Chaplains monument in front of the school, where a wreath presentation and remembrance ceremony took place.

Members of the Seaford American Legion led the event, joined by the Seaford Fire Department, the Seaford High School Marching Band, and various community organizations. During the ceremony, legion members conducted a traditional gun salute in honor of veterans who gave their lives in service to the nation.

— Charles Shaw

Steve Sachs/Herald photos

Seaford Boy Scout Troop 690 attended the Memorial Day parade to honor those who gave their lives in service to the nation.

The Seaford Fire Department participated in the parade, driving their trucks through the street.

Several community groups participated in the Seaford Memorial Day parade on May 26, including the high school marching band.

Seaford American Legion member and Korean War Veteran Renato Ricci, left, with Debbie Tirman, member of the Elmont American Legion Rider Auxiliary

attorney Christine Quigley led a community discussion at the Levittown public Library exploring the complexities and limits of f irst amendment rights.

Understanding the First Amendment

ular way of praying is the official or preferred one. That’s when it crosses a constitutional line, she noted, regardless of where it takes place.

“It’s not about whether religion is inherently good or evil,” she said, “but it’s about whether the government is the actor that should be allowed to take cer-

tain kinds of action and either threaten, coerce, even cajole its citizens into following somebody else’s version of what religion is.”

Quigley also discussed Town of Greece v. Galloway, a 2014 U.S. Supreme Court case in which the court ruled that opening local government meetings with prayer does not violate the First

Editor’s note: Please join Michael Ettinger’s live Zoom webinar “Four Advantages of Using Trusts” on Wednesday, June 4 at 7 pm or Wednesday, July 9 at 7 pm. Kindly register on our website, trustlaw.com

Leaving Assets to Minors

Generally, parents leave their assets to the children thinking that the children will then take care of their children. Occasionally, parents want to bypass the children, either wholly or partially, and leave an inheritance directly to the grandchildren.

Inheritances to minors come in different varieties, such as bequests in wills and as beneficiaries or contingent beneficiaries on IRA’s, investment accounts, life insurance policies and annuities.

Although well-intentioned, inheritances to minors, without a trust, must go through a court proceeding on death. Minors, those under 18, cannot hold property in their names. In the proceeding, the judge appoints a legal guardian to protect the minor’s interest until age eighteen, at which time the beneficiary receives the asset. The expenses of the legal guardian will be paid out of the minor’s bequest. Generally, the legal guardian will use the funds for the child’s health, education, maintenance and support having regard to any other assets or resources of

the minor known to the guardian. Again, ready or not, the legal guardian must turn over the assets to the minor at age eighteen, a tender age in today’s world.

A better plan would be to leave assets to a minor beneficiary by creating a trust. You leave directions for the use of the funds, distribution at a stated age, such as thirty years old and, in the meantime, the trustee, a person you choose instead of a legal guardian chosen by the court, uses the money for the purposes enumerated above, either by giving money directly to the minor or by paying bills on their behalf.

Trusts avoid probate court proceedings entirely for the trust assets. You either put assets into the trust while you are living or, alternatively, you may name the minor’s trust as death beneficiary on bank accounts, investment accounts, IRA’s or the retirement plans, annuities and life insurance policies.

The intention to benefit minor beneficiaries must be attended to with thoughtful planning to avoid having the good deed punished.

ETTINGER LAW FIRM

Amendment’s Establishment Clause, which prohibits the government from establishing an official religion or favoring one religion over another. The case centered on the Town of Greece, New York, where meetings often began with Christian prayers delivered by local clergy. The court upheld the practice, citing the historical tradition of legislative prayer and noting that attendees were not compelled to participate.

Quigley emphasized that many Americans overlook their constitutional right to petition the government, a key component of the First Amendment. She explained that this right allows individuals to formally express grievances and demand action, whether through writing letters, gathering signatures, or organizing community support. As an example, she described how residents frustrated with a long-neglected pothole could band together, create a written petition, and present it to their local officials.

“So now you’re not one voice, you’re 50 voices all the way on the street,” she said. “That’s petitioning the government. It’s something that Americans just don’t seem to get it in their heads

that we have the right to do.”

Quigley emphasized that the First Amendment is complex and not absolute. Its protections evolve with changing contexts and court rulings, especially as digital media challenge free speech limits. She urged the community to stay informed, think critically, and actively engage in civic life to better understand and protect their rights.

League member Carol Bergman said Quigley’s presentation was thought provoking and made her reflect on how the First Amendment has evolved over time.

“I think people are having conversations about what (the First Amendment) says,” Bergman said. “We have to learn to interpret things. It’s not hard written.”

League member Peggy Stein said the presentation was “eye-opening” and stressed the importance of exercising First Amendment rights.

“It really gives you things to think about,” Stein said. “I hope that we know that you certainly can petition your government. And you shouldn’t sit idly and say, ‘Well, let the other guy down the block take care of it.’ You can organize it.”

Continued from page 1

Charles Shaw/Herald

Skies roar as crowd flocks to Jones Beach Air Show

Thousands flocked to Jones Beach State Park over Memorial Day weekend for the Four Leaf Air Show, which featured breathtaking aerial performances and sky-high patriotism.

Headlining the show were the United States Air Force Thunderbirds, who returned to Long Island with their precision flying and signature diamond formation. Also soaring above the crowds were the United States Army Golden Knights, who parachuted onto the beach, and the United States Marines F-35B demonstration team, showcasing the jet’s advanced maneuverability.

Long Island native Dave Windmiller thrilled spectators with aerobatic stunts in his Zivko Edge 540 aircraft.

The event, hosted by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and sponsored by FourLeaf Federal Credit Union, drew large crowds again this year. Last year’s show welcomed more than 350,000 attendees.

The Four Leaf Air Show continues to be one of the region’s most anticipated Memorial Day weekend traditions for Long Islanders on the South Shore.

— Charles Shaw

Tim Baker/Herald photos

A U.S. Coast Guard ship watches as an aircraft performs during the Four Leaf Air Show at Jones Beach State Park over Memorial Day weekend.

A U.S. Army Golden Knight leaps from a plane, parachuting toward the beach below.

Sienna, 10, and Hannah, 18, with their parents Michele and Jon Wallach, relaxing on the sandy beach during the performances.

Sergeant First Class at U.S Army Stephen Ponce, left, with Specialist Alexis Balkissoon and Corporal Jorge Rodriguez

MacArthur topped by Glen Cove in finals

By TONY BELLISSIMO and ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com

With its season hanging in the balance, trailing MacArthur by one run through six innings of Monday’s decisive third game of the Nassau Class AA softball championship series, Glen Cove produced a rally for the history books.

The Big Red scored twice in the top of the seventh and junior pitcher Brooke Simmons stranded the potential tying run on third base in the bottom of the frame for a 2-1 victory and the program’s first county title in 40 years.

“This is everything I was hoping it would feel like, and more,” said Simmons, who doubled to lead off the seventh and scored the tying run on a Mia Lupinski single. “It was a back-andforth series and we like drama,” she added. “I’ve been on the team four years and we’ve had ups and downs. This feels incredible.”

Junior Siena Scagliola doubled home Lupinski with the eventual championship-winning run.

“It was the biggest hit of my life,” Scagliola said. “The crowd was going crazy and it was great to come through. It felt good off the bat.

“We’ve come so far and we wanted

this not only for ourselves but for the school and the community,” she added.

MacArthur, which took the series opener in an extra-inning thriller and lost Game 2 with Simmons throwing a no-hitter, was 60 feet away from getting the equalizer before the southpaw pitcher induced a lazy pop to Natalie Weigand at first base for the final out.

“When that ball landed in Natalie’s glove, everything was a blur,” Simmons said. “I don’t remember too much from the celebration aside from hugging everyone.”

It was MacArthur’s second straight appearance in the finals.

“Playing in Conference I, it’s like being in the playoffs every day and it battle tests you for the playoffs,” MacArthur coach Bobby Fehrenbach said. “Both teams played their hearts out and it was a great series that could’ve gone either way.”

The last time Glen Cove was in the finals was 2008. Coach Kim Kessel played on that team.

“It’s the best feeling in the world,” Kessel said. “This was the goal we set from Day One. I had to check my blood pressure a few times along the way, but we got it.”

Simmons stepped up big 24 hours

after the heartbreaking Game 1 7-6, 11-inning defeat May 29 with a no-no in a 3-1 win to keep Glen Cove’s title hopes alive.

Glen Cove gave Simmons all the runs she would need in the third inning with two runs on an error followed by a Julia Petrizzo RBI double.

“When we got the lead I locked everything down knowing that I can go out there and now and pitch the best game of my life,” said Simmons moments after clinching the Big Red’s game two win. “I wanted to leave it all out on the field knowing if I did that we can play again on Monday.”

Fittingly the no-hitter was the last in a county championship stage for Glen Cove since Delia DeRiggi-Whitton tossed one when leading the Big Red to its last title in 1985. DeRiggi-Whitton, who is now a Nassau County legislator, was in the stands for Simmons’ masterpiece that included seven strikeouts.

In the series opener, the Generals rallied from a 5-1 deficit and were down to their last out before Hailey Trapani tripled and scored on a Livanos RBI single. Gianna Spaventa completed the comeback with a walk-off RBI single in the bottom of the 11th with the game tied 6-6.

Seaford falls short against stingy Mineola

By TONY BELLISSIMO and ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com

Seaford’s quest for a third straight Nassau County softball championship was thwarted by Mineola and star sophomore pitcher Autumn Malone on Monday afternoon.

Malone not only dominated in the circle for a second straight game in the best-of-three final series, but also blasted a long tworun homer over the fence in rightcenter in the Mustangs’ 5-0 victory. She allowed just one hit — a two-out double to Seaford freshman Riley Betz in the bottom of the sixth — as Mineola captured its first county title since 1998.

“Autumn Malone had a great series and kept our bats tied up for most of it and that’s not easy to do with our lineup,” Seaford coach Joe Nastasi said. “Give her a lot of credit.”

The Mustangs, who advanced to meet Miller Place for the Long Island Class A crown, scored twice in the top of the second when Kiera Santaniello singled

home Maone and Ava Lopez. That was all the run support the southpaw pitcher would need.

“It’s very cool and exciting,”

Mineola coach Monique Wink said. “Seaford has tremendous hitters, especially one through five. Autumn just did a great job hitting her spots and getting the big out every time we needed one.”

Seaford had a chance to clinch the championship last Friday, but fell 2-1 in nine innings after holding the lead going into the bottom of the fifth. Malone delivered the winning hit in the bottom of the ninth to keep the Mustangs’ season alive.

The Vikings had a golden chance to extend a 1-0 lead in the top of the fifth with runners on the corners and no outs before Malone escaped trouble with two pop-ups and a groundout to third.

Not adding any insurance runs proved costly the next half inning when Mineola tied the game on an Amanda Baker’s RBI single.

Seaford was in position to retake the lead in the top of the ninth when Mineola intentionally

walked senor pitcher/shortstop Skyer Secondino with runners at first and second and two outs. Malone once again got out of the jam though by inducing a groundball to shortstop from junior Lauren LoPresti.

Betz started the game and held Mineola hitless through four innings. Secondino relieved Betz in the fifth and recorded five strikeouts in her four innings of work.

Betz helped deliver Seaford the lead when she hit a triple with one out in the fourth inning followed by an Alyssa Rodriguez RBI double that scored courtesy runner Katie Padavan.

The Vikings took game one of the best-of-three series on Thursday, 4-1, on the strength of an 11 strikeout performance from Secondino. The offense featured one RBI apiece from Shannon McClernon, Kaitlyn Young, Secondino and Rodriguez.

“Our girls had a heck of a season competing in the top conference and having a lot of success with 15 wins including playoffs,” Nastasi said.

Erik Lee/Herald

Sammie Masie and the Vikings celebrated 15 wins this spring and reached the Nassau Class A finals.

Jeff Wilson/Herald Brianna Almanzar and the Generals swung for the fences this spring and reached the county finals for a second straight year.

HERALD SPORTS

Wantagh defeats Seaford for baseball crown

By ANDREW COEN & TONY BELLISSIMO sports@liherald.com

Wantagh senior pitcher Dominick Cusamano entered Sunday’s winnertake-all Nassau Class A baseball finals game against Seaford determined to not have it be the last time he would take the mound in his high school career.

Cusamano delivered under the brought lights tossing 6⅓ innings with five strikeouts to propel top-seeded Wantagh to a 6-1 win in game three of the county championship series against the Warriors’ neighboring rival at Farmingdale State College.

“I was crying on the way here because this game and this team means everything to me,” Cusamano said. “I enjoy every day with this team.”

The stellar pitching of Cusamano assured that he would get at least another four days with his teammates with the win advancing Wantagh (23-4) into the Long Island Class A finals on Thursday against Sayville at Middle Country Athletic Complex in Selden at 4:30 pm. It marked Wantagh’s first county title since 2018.

Wantagh gave Cusamano all the run support he needed in the second inning starting with Frank McNally drawing a bases loaded walk that scored Ryan Tullo. The Warriors extended the lead when Cole Spinelli and Michael Avitabile scored on an error from a hard grounder off the bat of Cusumano.

After third-seeded Seaford (19-10) got on the scoreboard with a Luke Walsh RBI single in the top of the third, the Warriors answered the bell in their half of the inning on an infield single by Avitable that scored Tallo.

Wantagh added two insurance runs in the sixth on a Robert Terrana pinchhit RBI triple followed by an RBI single from Cascino that made it 6-1.

Christian Danzilo came out of the bullpen in the seventh inning and set off the Wantagh celebration by inducing a game-ending double play to shortstop Ryan Conigliaro who stepped on second and tossed to first.

“These kids deserve to win with the way they work, the way they show up in the off season and the way they pull for each other,” said longtime Wantagh head coach Keith Sachs. “They’re the

best kids on and off the field and I’m glad they got to experience this.”

Wantagh was nearly crowned Class champions in the second game of the series last Friday but Vikings tied it in the bottom of the seventh on Dylan Alt’s sac fly that brought home Patrick Cappetti and then won it 2-1 in the ninth with nobody out when Alt singled home Finn Curry, who drew a leadoff walk.

“That’s what Dylan does,” Seaford coach Mike Milano said of Alt. “I think once this team got to extra innings in the playoffs, they’ve been vampires. It’s the third series in a row these kids had their backs against the wall and came back to win.”

Alt was also instrumental in getting Seaford on the board in the bottom of the fourth against Wantagh starting pitcher Gavin Diegnan, who has been lights-out all spring. Alt singled and scored on Jordan Cassuto’s sac fly to cut the Warriors’ lead in half.

Pitcher Thomas Appolo was dynamite for the Vikings in the playoffs with shutout wins over Clarke and Plainedge.

GRADUATE OPEN HOUSE

Saturday, June 7, 2025 at 10 a.m.

At Hofstra University, graduate students grow the seeds to advance in their career. Hear from representatives across 200 programs that include business, communications, education, engineering, health sciences, nursing, and psychology, and learn all the ways your success can sprout at Hofstra University. Your future awaits.

Virtual For event details and to RSVP, visit hofstra.edu/visit

Erik Lee/Herald

Herald Senior Health & Beyond Expo expands 2025 Series with Massapequa debut

By Dana McDermott

Herald Community Media and RichnerLIVE successfully hosted the second event in the 2025 Senior Health & Beyond Expo series on May 22, at the Massapequa Elks Lodge #2162. Despite rainy and chilly weather, the free community event drew hundreds of attendees from across the region — including seniors, families, and care-givers — all eager to explore the latest in wellness, lifestyle enhancements, and essential health resources.

Held from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., the expo marked its debut in Massapequa with resounding success. Attendees engaged with over 35 educational vendors offering information on topics ranging from rehabilitation and home care to wellness programs and state services. Attendees had the opportunity to connect one-on-one with experts in various fields.

Informational booths offered resources on home rehabilitation, in-home care services, chronic disease management, wellness programs, state and local assistance, and more. Many participants took the time to explore all the booths, gathering literature, asking questions, and signing up for programs to help improve their quality of life.

“This was our very first Senior Health Expo in Massapequa, and the community’s enthusiasm far exceeded our expectations,” said Amy Amato, Executive Director of Corporate Relations and Events at RichnerLIVE. “We are proud to provide a platform where seniors and their loved ones can access vital information and engage with professionals who truly care about their well-being.”

The event wasn’t just educational—it was fun, too. A special comedy performance by Larry Izzo brought lighthearted entertainment to the morning, sparking laughter and community connection. His blend of humor and relatability added a personal touch that resonated with many in the crowd.

One of the highlights of the morning was a lively Q&A panel discussion featuring several distinguished speakers. Each panelist brought expertise from their respective fields, offering actionable tips and meaningful insights. Representatives from the Parker Jewish Institute for Healthcare and Rehabilitation discussed the differences between short- and long-term rehabilitation options, addressing common misconceptions and helping families better plan for care transitions. Mid-Island Audiology highlighted the crucial link between hearing loss and brain health, stressing the importance of early intervention and regular hearing evaluations. East Neck Nursing and Rehabilitation Center offered practical advice on fall prevention, a major concern for many seniors, including home safety modifications and physical therapy strategies. PSEG Long Island presented on advocacy, out-

reach, and education, sharing programs available to help seniors manage utility bills and understand energy usage. The New York State Department of Public Service – Long Island Office provided information on saving money and energy, as well as preparing homes for the warmer months ahead, including statesupported incentives and rebates.

Each presentation was followed by a Q&A session, giving audience members the opportunity to ask questions and receive tailored responses. These panels were especially popular, with attendees appreciating the chance to speak directly to experts in an accessible, conversational setting.

The event was made possible through

the support of several key sponsors and partners who share the goal of improving the lives of seniors. Event sponsors included AARP, CenterLight Healthcare PACE, East Neck Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, the New York State Department of Public Service, Parker Jewish Institute for Healthcare and Rehabilitation, and Silver Lining Homecare Agency, which also served as the event’s Gift Bag Sponsor. These partnerships reflect the collaborative spirit behind the Senior Health & Beyond Expo series, emphasizing the importance of bringing together public, private, and nonprofit organizations to better serve the aging population.

Following the success in Mass -

apequa, the next Senior Health & Beyond Expo is scheduled for Thursday, June 27, at Congregation Ohav Sholom in Merrick, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Like all events in the series, it will be free and open to the public, offering another opportunity for seniors and their loved ones to discover new services, engage with experts, and enjoy a morning of education, community, and connection.

To view a full gallery of photos from the Massapequa expo, visit RichnerLive.com. For a complete schedule of upcoming events in the 2025 Senior Health & Beyond Expo series, including locations and times, visit LiHerald.com.

The Massapequa Senior Expo attracted over 200 people to the May 22 event.

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Senior Expo attendees took part in stationary exercises led by emcee Mae Caime.

Nicole Hall and Diane Finocchio from PSEG Long Island.

Claire Masih and Angela Mistretta of Park Lane Jewelry By ClairMarie.

Pablo Rendon, Janette Lebron, and Carmen Quinones of Parker Jewish Institute Health Care and Rehabilitation.

Ryan Lynch from New York Cancer & Blood Specialists. Expo attendees had the opportunity to meet 35 vendors.

Carol Bottiglieri from TrueCare Adult Day Care Center.

Jackie Rothermel from Meltzer, Lippe, Goldstein, & Breitstone, LLP.

Alyssa Ednie, Christen L. Cassidy, and Rochelle L. Verron, Esq. from Verron Law Group.

Robert Perricone, Sherri M. Stoklasa, and Laura Williams from WellCare.

Stephanie Penza and Sheila O’Brien from SightMD.

James Senese, Marguerite L. Ryan, and Ed Ryan from Equitable Advisors.

AnneMarie Fragkoulis and Alexa Panariello of East Neck Nursing & Rehabilitation Center.

Debbie D’Amato of Centerlight HealthCare PACE.

Patricia Barna from ClarCaptions.

Jill Wasser from the NYS Department of Public Service.

Manuel Martinez from Elegance At Home.

Mae Caime speaking at the Senior Health Expo in Massapequa.

New life for decades old Jones Beach landmark

umbrellas, chairs and benches.”

The state Office of General Services is overseeing the project. It’s commissioner, Jeanette Moy, said the progress of the project is on track to fully open in time for June of next year.

“The demolition is substantially complete already,” she said. “We’re just finishing off some of the asbestos removal. This project is moving very rapidly, and we’re very excited about it.”

Throughout the summer and fall, work will focus on structural repairs, historical restoration, and roofing. Aurora Contractors Inc. of Ronkonkoma and Syosset-based LiRo-Hill are overseeing construction management.

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the bathhouse upgrades at a news conference at the state park last year, detailing the redesign and reimagining of the long-abandoned facility. According to Hochul, the building is the last major piece of infrastructure at Jones Beach that hasn’t been updated since the pool complex was shut down in 2008 during the financial crisis.

According to Hochul, the facility improvements are part of the New York StateWide Investment in Municipal Swimming initiative, also known as NY SWIMS, which is aiming to provide swimming access across the state to underserved communities and areas that experience extreme summer heat. The initiative, according to the governor’s website, will reverse decades of

Charles Shaw/Herald

Construction is underway to transform the long-closed east Bathhouse at Jones Beach into a modern swimming and recreation facility, with a $100 million state investment aiming for a summer 2026 reopening.

disinvestment to ensure that public parks offer new, state-of-the-art swimming facilities that can serve thousands of daily visitors and provide safe spaces

for children and families to swim.

“Drownings in the state of New York have reached record highs in recent years, claiming over 230 lives in 2021,”

the governor said. “Children are particularly vulnerable. Drownings are the leading cause of death for 1- to 4-yearolds across the country, and the secondleading cause of death for 5- to 14-yearolds.”

Jones Beach, Hochul said, is the second most visited state park in New York, behind only Niagara Falls. In 2023, around 8.6 million people visited Jones Beach, she added, almost 50 percent of them from New York City.

George Gorman, Long Island regional director of New York State Parks, said the infrastructure improvements at the East Bathhouse are sorely needed. Since its closing, the facility deteriorated extensively, with bricks missing from the walls and collapsed ceilings, which he noted is expected of a building that has been abandoned for well over a decade.

The bathhouse is one of the original structures at Jones Beach, which opened in 1929. It was originally designed as a massive locker room—not a pool complex, Simons explained. Over the years, the space has evolved to meet modern needs, and the latest renovation will improve safety for swimmers.

“You can be in this area for the entire day and have everything,” Simons said. “All your expectations are met when you come to the beach, full service in a lot of ways, for food, fun and really family tradition, and that’s what we wanted to kind of bring back to this area of Jones beach.”

things to know About hArbor dAy

Fun activities brings school community together

Laughter, teamwork, and school pride filled the air at Seaford Harbor Elementary School on May 21 during the annual Harbor Day celebration. The event brought together students, staff and families for a day of fun and community bonding before the end of the school year.

— Charles Shaw

n Activities for all ages

Students took part in a variety of games and challenges, from relay races and kickball to tic-tac-toe basketball and soccer. Indoors, they enjoyed bingo, dancing to classic hits during lunch, and participating in the Human Board Game, which promoted teamwork and character-building.

n Family and PTA involvement

The event welcomed family members to join students in the fun, including parent-child sports and group competitions. The PTA partnered with the school to help organize the day and provided every student with a bandana to mark the occasion.

n A celebration of school values

Principal Jennifer Bisulca said Harbor Day reflects the school’s commitment to building community and nurturing character. She noted that the event encourages traits of the Seaford Scholars program, such as being communicators, flexible, humorous, and willing to take responsible risks.

principal Jennifer Bisulca and assistant principal tara Savage stopped by to say hi to some very spirited third grades, from left, isabella Stanzoni, peter mangus, Collin Conklin, niko Kambouris and ellie Warren.

Courtesy Seaford School District

it was students vs. parents during games of kickball at Seaford Harbor elementary School on may 21 for Harbor day.

Rallying on L.I. for transgender rights

By MADISON GUSLER mgusler@liherald.com

More than 200 people gathered for Long Island’s largest rally in support of the transgender community at the Nassau County Legislative building in Mineola over the weekend to express support for the trans, nonbinary and intersex communities.

Organized by Huntington Station-based nonprofit Gender Equality New York, which advocates for the rights of transgender, gender non-binary and intersex New Yorkers, the event highlighted support for shield laws that protect both reproductive and gender-affirming health care being targeted by legislators across the country.

“We’re here to show courage in the face of hate and discrimination. We’re here to affirm our existence to those who would rather see us erased,” Juli GreyOwens, executive director of GENY, said. “We are here to stand firm and fight for our rights, our dignity and for our future.”

Transgender and non-binary communities in New York State were only recently granted civil rights protections with the passage of 2019’s Gender Expression Non-Discrimination Act. This followed years of organizing from various transgender activists. But nationally, transgender rights have been under attack since Donald Trump’s first presidency.

“They’re targeting trans kids, criminalizing gender affirming care, and feeding the flames of hate to score political points,” said Chanel Lopez, deputy director of LGBTQ+ Affairs for Governor Kathy Hochul. “We are here to say ‘not in New York, not today, not ever.’” New York has pledged to be a safe haven to trans people.

A wave of recent anti-transgender legislation

Madison Gusler/Herald

Over 200 people gathered in Nassau County on Saturday to rally in support of transgender rights across Long Island and beyond.

passed by state legislatures around the country has prohibited access to medical care, limited trans adults from making decisions regarding their own bodies and criminalized trans people’s existence.

“There is strong consensus among the most prominent medical organizations that evidence-based, gender affirming care for transgender children is medically necessary and appropriate. It can even be life saving,” local pediatrician, Dr. Eve Meltzer-Krief, said. “Gender affirming firming care is health care. It is

mental health care, and far too often, it is suicide prevention care.”

“At a moment when the federal government and roughly half U.S. states are aligned in attacking access to abortion and gender affirming care, New York must take action to protect providers, patients, seekers, and supporters,” Arlo Fleischer, local organizer with the New York Civil Liberties Union, said.

She explained how several states are not only stopping care provided within their state, but are actively working to “prevent people from accessing care in other states by imposing civil and criminal penalties on those who treat them.”

In February, Trump signed an executive order seeking to prohibit transgender women and girls from participating in girls’ and women’s sports, similar to local legislation passed in June 2024 by Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman.

“We have seen across the state this slow rolling back of the protections that we have been able to achieve here in New York, and we must stand strong and united in solidarity with one another in order to fight back,” Kei Williams, executive director of New Pride Agenda, said.

While the Nassau County trans athlete ban has many issues, state laws protecting Long Island’s trans residents who partake in sports under their preferred identity also supersede it.

The ban has contributed to larger discrimination against those who don’t fit in under the label of man or woman.

“Nassau County has fallen prey to the propaganda that trans people are a problem. I’m here to tell you, we’re not going to stand for that,” Dolores Covrigaru, a Human Rights Campaign board member and a mom who raised her trans child in Nassau County, said.

Debating casino zoning at Coliseum site

By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com

Residents, business leaders, and elected officials shared their thoughts on the proposed changes to the Nassau Coliseum and Mitchel Field sites during two public hearings before the Hempstead Town Board May.

The proposed zoning change would create a Mitchel Field Integrated Resort District, and while the change would not guarantee a casino, it would allow for a casino resort or other tourism attractions to be built on the Uniondale site.

While the Las Vegas Sands corporation announced that it will not apply in June for one of three available downstate gaming licenses in New York last April, they are still responsible for the general upkeep and maintenance of the property, but cannot build or develop on it after the Nassau County Legislature approved a 42-year operational lease agreement with the company last August.

The Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum and the Marriott Hotel Property are currently zoned within the Mitchel Field Mixed-Use District. In the district, gaming facilities including bars, casinos, cocktail lounges, nightclubs, hotels, and other facilities under their control are not allowed, according to the town.

When the Sands announced they were pulling out in late April, County Executive Bruce Blakeman said the county would look into other projects. “In either event, there will be an exciting new development that will create jobs and positive economic activity,” he said previously. A potential new developer was not discussed during the public hearing.

Over 90 comments were submitted at the two May 27 sessions. The town reserved a decision until a future date.

Luke Feeney/Herald

Residents, business leaders and elected officials spoke on the proposed changes to the Nassau Coliseum and Mitchel Field sites during the first of two public hearings before the Hempstead Town Board on May 27.

Daniel Baker, an attorney from the Garden City law firm Greenberg Traurig, said the renovations would transform the area from “a sea of asphalt parking areas with an underutilized arena,” into a “mixed entertainment destination that fosters a sense of community and connectivity within its surroundings and draws people together.”

Pearl Jacobs, a Uniondale resident, a member of the Say No to the Casino Civic Association and president of

the Nostrand Gardens Civic Association, brought up several environmental concerns that she said would stem from high traffic at a casino, pointing to the high asthma rates in Uniondale, Roosevelt and Hempstead.

“Championing a casino proposal with its myriad of environmental burdens while chastising the FAA is the height of hypocrisy,” Jacobs said.

“Moving forward with a casino proposal would be detrimental to county resident’s quality of life and public health,” she noted in a later portion of her statement that she did not read due to time constraints. Jacobs also added that the proposal is “nothing other than environmental racism” due to its proximity towards and potential health impacts on disadvantaged communities.

Speakers in favor of the zoning changes pointed to economic growth, the potential of developing an underdeveloped area, as well as benefits for union and construction workers.

“It is a commitment to create jobs, develop business, and be part of the transformational project that will uplift this entire community in Nassau County,” said Rachel Lugo, a Hempstead resident, who additionally serves as division director of family support and vocational services for the EAC Network, a social service agency that assists and cares for people in need across Long Island and New York City.

Lugo added that the new employment opportunities would benefit the unemployed, working class, and people with disabilities among others. The town board ended the hearing with a unanimous vote to leave the hearing open for written comment until June 10 at 10:30 a.m.

Comments can be sent to Hempstead Town Hall, One Washington St., Hempstead, NY 11550.

Have an opinion on the zooming change. Send letter to jbessen@liherald.com.

STEPPING OUT

out of science as you encounter some

Digging for dinos

Explore a prehistoric world at Long Island Children’s Museum

By Danielle Schwab

Your family’s summer “travel” plans might want to include an adventure back millions of years when mighty dinosaurs ruled the Earth.

The museum welcomes visitors to get up close to models of dinosaur bones that demystify the enigmatic creatures and shed light on the reality of the past at it’s newest STEM-based exhibit, “Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed,” now in residence until Aug. 31.

“Dinosaurs are such a popular, fascinating thing for kids to explore,” says Ashley Niver, the museum’s director of education. “It’s exciting to be standing next to these replicas of dinosaurs, seeing the full-blown skeletons, because it gives them such a great sense of scale compared to their bodies.”

Six full skeletal bodies represent real-life “legends,” including a Triceratops, a Tyrannosaurus Rex, and a Velociraptor. Of course, there’s plenty of opportunity to view and touch, plus examine additional molds of skulls, arms, legs, eggs, footprints, and even a 6-foot-1-inch Apatosaurus femur. Also go deeper into the science and history of the prehistoric era through a timeline matching game and enjoy a dig box where everyone can use paleontology tools to unearth dinosaur bones.

• Now until Aug. 31

• $17 museum admission, $16 seniors 65 and older

• 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

“Kids have a very close view of what these dinosaurs look like compared to one another, and their interesting bone structure. It’s a different perspective than they would get from just a book. They can touch all of these things,” Niver says. A fascinating highlight is surely that enormous Apatosaurus femur. This gigantic animal weighed as much as five elephants and walked with a thunderous sound as the feet hit the ground, Niver explains.

Fossil replicas are made of fiberglass and foam, which allows a unique opportunity for kids to interact with dinos outside of glass displays. For Niver, this all goes hand-in-hand with the museum’s mission to make immersive learning accessible to families.

“To have something that would normally be hands-off is exciting for kids. Any kind of tactile component within our programs and exhibits enhances the whole experience,” she explains.

Visitors won’t just look at bones, they can also dig for

them! Kids can step into the role of a paleontologist by wearing paleontology gear as they take their curiosity to two “dig sites” and use paleontology tools to excavate for new skeletons — and then hide them for the next explorer to find.

As always, related programming enhances

As always, related programming enhances the exhibit experience.

can join Dr. Patricia Osiris and help coax a

Among the highlights, the museum’s theater team presents an original interactive performance, “Unbox-a-saurus.” Families can join Dr. Patricia Osiris and help coax a shy dinosaur out of its crate to meet new friends, for an additional fee.

Other activities include creating pterodactyl flyers and clay fossil impressions on select dates.

For those curious minds, paleontologist Michael D’Emic, PhD, brings his tools and artifacts to the museum on July 10. Feel free to ask questions about dinosaurs and their ancient world of D’Emic and the graduate students accompanying him.

discovering new species — it is

“Studying dinosaurs is more than just naming and discovering new species — it is about learning how environments and species changed over time, which is more important than ever to understand in today’s changing world,” D’Emic wrote in an email.

Visitors of all ages will certainly have an engaging time with all things dinos.

“The range of dinosaur appeal is a multi-generational thing. Any dinosaur enthusiasts who are adults will be thrilled to get to share that with their kids,” Niver says.

Any dinosaur enthusiasts who are adults will be thrilled to get to

From their habitats to their bone structures, the world of dinosaurs sparks imagination and creative play through their larger-than-life legacy.

“They have their own personalities in many ways. There are ones that eat

“They have their own personalities in many ways. There are ones that eat meat and others that eat plants. Some are big and some are small. That’s what’s interesting and intriguing. This majestic-seeming creature no longer roams the Earth, but you knew it once did,” she adds.

And there’s no better place to start than at Long Island Children’s Museum.

“It’s local. You don’t have to go to the city to learn about dinosaurs and see fossil replicas up close, it’s right here in Garden City,” Niver continues, encouraging everyone to check out the museum’s latest offering, in collaboration with the Museum of Discovery, Little Rock, Ark.

The world’s top-selling jazz instrumentalist, Grammy-winning trumpeter Chris Botti has been one of the world’s most popular instrumentalists for nearly three decades. A trumpeter with a sumptuous, enveloping tone, fluent phrasing, and sense of space, Botti became a masterly musician equally at home in the realms of jazz and pop. He honed his craft performing and recording with stars like Frank Sinatra, Buddy Rich, Paul Simon, Joni Mitchell, Herbie Hancock, Yo-Yo Ma, and Sting, who featured him on his Brand New Day tour and who was one the stellar artists on Botti’s chart-topping 2009 album “Live in Boston.” In short, Chris Botti really needs no introduction. Yet with his Blue Note Records debut, he’s offering one anyway. Vol.1 is in many ways a fresh start for the trumpeter. Having successfully crossed over from jazz renown to pop stardom, Botti’s first album in more than a decade finds him crossing back, with a small group project focused on acoustic jazz and classic standards.

Friday, June 6, 8 p.m. $99.50, $89.50, $69.50, $64.50, $59.50, $39.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny. com.

Northwinds Symphonic Band

Recreate a favorite creature or make the dino of your dreams using large-scale foam blocks.

Sands Point Preserve’s reserve’s historic mansions and waterfront grounds are the majestic backdrop for a lively musical afternoon. Northwinds Symphonic Band returns with “Broadway, Movies, and Light Classics.” Immerse yourself in a feast for the senses. The concert (indoors) features a host of treasured music from the big screen to the stage. Conductors Helen P. Bauer and Brandon Bromsey have designed an entertaining program of both instrumental and vocal selections. A special appearance by Broadway performer Karen Murphy and tenor Joe Stroppel with spotlight solos by Northwinds musicians are among the highlights. Consider bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy on the delightful grounds before the concert.

Sunday, June 8, 3 p.m. $10.

Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For information, visit sandspointpreserveconservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901.

Chris Botti

Photos courtesy LICM

Take a bite

hulking behemoths.

Junior paleontologists can unearth fossils in two dig pits.

Roam among dinos and make some new friends.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

JUNE 5

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 followup 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 Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: Ongoing

• Contact: (516) 484-9337 or nassaumuseum.org

JUNE

6

‘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 June 8 and June 10-12, times vary

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

Pre-Shabbat on the Beach

Join Congregation Beth Tikvah for a musical Pre-Shabbat singalong at Jones Beach Field 6. Services are free, open to all Long Islanders, and follow traditional Jewish Shabbat rituals. Bring seating, there is no parking fee after 4 p.m.

• Where: Jones Beach Field 6, 1 Ocean Pkwy., Wantagh (meet on the boardwalk west of the comfort station)

• Time: Fridays, June 6, July 18, Aug. 15, 6-6:45 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 785-2445 for more information

JUNE

Card and Collectible Show

8

Temple B’nai Torah hosts its annual Card and Collectible Show, featuring over 60 vendors from across Long Island. Admission is $5; n the first 100 attendees receive a free booster card pack.

JUNE

14

Voyage

Suffolk Bicycle Challenge) supports the work of the Kiwanis Club of North Shore Foundation. It supports charities such as Kiwanis Pediatric Trauma Center, Pediatric Lyme Disease Foundation, Kamp Kiwanis, NOSH, Boys and Girls Club and charities aligned with those of Kiwanis International “Serving the Children of the World”, including Kiwanis’ signature programs of Klothes 4 Kids, Koats 4 Kids and Kicks 4 Kids. The beautiful ride through the Gold Coast features picturesque vistas and water views. Choose from a 25 mile loop with 1,060 feet of vertical climb or the more challenging ride with an additional 10 mile loop, totalling 35 miles, with 1,600 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

• Time: 7 p.m.

“Don’t stop believin’… Voyage has returned with its rockin’ tribute to Journey. The popular band takes everyone back to the ‘80s when Journey’s timeless music ruled the airwaves. Hailed by fans and critics alike, the band performs the music with chilling accuracy. Voyage is celebrated for their uncanny ability to recreate the legendary sound, energy and passion of one of rock’s greatest bands. The attention to detail is unrivaled: blistering guitar solos, lush keyboard arrangements, electrifying stage presence, and stunning harmonies, has earned them a reputation as the ultimate homage to Journey’s timeless music. Fronted by vocalist Pedro Espada, whose range and tone is acclaimed as rivaling the iconic Steve Perry, he’s backed by a lineup of world-class musicians — Robby Hoffman, Greg Smith, Lance Millard, and Dana Spellman — who bring every note to life with precision and heart. Voyage doesn’t just perform Journey’s greatest hits — they transport audiences back to the height of arena rock glory. From the soaring ballads of “Faithfully” and “Open Arms” to the anthemic energy of “Don’t Stop Believin’” and “Separate Ways,” every performance is a journey through the soundtrack of a generation. $40, $35, $30, $25, $20.

• Where: Jerusalem Ave., Wantagh

• Time: 9:30 a.m-5 p.m.

• Contact: Elliott Greenberg at (516) 524-3753 or elman52@aol. com or visit smrshows.com

JUNE

Medication Management: Prescription Review

Nassau County Office for the Aging offers a free medication review. Attendees are encouraged to bring their medications, vitamins, and supplements for a one-on-one review with a pharmacist from Nassau University Medical Center. Learn about side effects, common uses, and potential interactions.

• Where: Wantagh Senior Community Center at St. Jude’s Church, 3606 Lufberry Ave., Wantagh

• Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.

• Contact: (516) 797-5357

JUNE

11

Bingo at Temple B’Nai Torah

Temple B’nai Torah hosts weekly bingo with prizes, progressive games, and refreshments every Wednesday and Thursday.

• Where: 2900 Jerusalem Ave., Wantagh

• Time: Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.–1 p.m.; Thursdays, 7:15–10 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 221-2370

JUNE

Game time

Play Mah Jongg and Canasta every Thursday at Congregation Beth Tikvah. Snacks and drinks are provided. $5 contribution.

• Where: 3710 Woodbine Ave., Wantagh

• Contact: mahjonggCBT@yahoo. com or (516) 785-2445

Little Learners Art Lab

Each week participants are introduced to artmaking, and inspiration from artists and techniques. Ages 2-5 build critical thinking skills, expand vocabulary, and support imaginations as they play, create and explore. This week families explore the techniques used in expressionist art. $4 with museum admission.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: 11:30 a.m.-noon

• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

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

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

JUNE

13

National BBQ Festival

The National BBQ Festival touches down in Nassau County at Eisenhower Park for the first time on Father’s Day Weekend. It’s slated to be packed with mouthwatering eats, entertainment and family-friendly fun, through June 15.

• Where: 1899 Hempstead Tpke., East Meadow

• Time: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

• Contact: nationalbbqfest.com

JUNE

Paumanacke Garden Club

Love to garden or have questions about plants? Join fellow gardening enthusiasts at the Paumanacke Garden Club meeting at Wantagh Library.

• Where: 3285 Park Ave., Wantagh

• Time: 6-7:30 p.m.

• Contact: rlkjb@optonline.net or (516) 781-5019

JUNE

Kiwanis Bicycle Challenge

Ride in support of others. The Nassau Bicycle Challenge (formerly Nassau to

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-musicianeducator 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

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.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

LOCAL LAW NO.

34-2025

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held May 27, 2025 by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 34-2025, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 34-2025, amending Section 202-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at various locations.

Dated: May 27, 2025 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR.

Supervisor

KATE MURRAY

Town Clerk 153913

LEGAL NOTICE

June 2025 Meeting

Date Change

Notice is hereby given that the Seaford Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners of the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, New York, will hold its regular Monthly Meeting for the month of June 2025, on the Fifth Monday, June 30, 2025, 7:00 P.M., at the Seaford Fire Headquarters, 2170 Southard Avenue, Seaford, New York 11783-2544. All meetings of the Seaford Fire District are open to the public.

===============

By order of: Board of Fire Commissioners

Seaford Fire District

Dated: May 27, 2025

Michael R. Foran, Secretary 153919

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC

HEARING

SEAFORD FIRE

VOLUNTEER

FIREFIGHTER

EXEMPTION

PURSUANT TO REAL PROPERTY TAX LAW

§466-A

WHEREAS, a new Real Property Tax Law

§466-a now permits enrolled volunteer firefighters throughout New York State to be eligible to qualify for a partial real property tax exemption on their residential real property subject to approvals by local counties, towns, cities, villages, fire districts, etc.; and WHEREAS, Real Property Tax Law §466-a requires that local government entities wishing to confer the benefits of said statute on enrolled volunteer firefighters serving within their boundaries hold a public hearing; and WHEREAS, in counties such as Nassau County where the exemption was already provided for by prior legislation, a resolution is required by fire districts to continue the exemption under the new statute which replaces prior statutory authorization, and WHEREAS, the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Seaford Fire District wishes to consider conferring the partial real property tax exemption benefits of Real Property Tax Law §466-a upon the enrolled volunteer firefighters of the Seaford Fire Department and convert to the new statutory authority; NOW, therefore, BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Seaford Fire District will hold a public hearing in order to hear public comment on whether or not it should confer the partial real property tax exemption benefits of Real Property Tax Law §466-a upon the enrolled volunteer firefighters of the Seaford Fire Department on Monday, June 30, 2025 commencing at 7:00 p.m. at the Fire District Office Building located at 2170 Southard Avenue, Seaford, New York.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the aforesaid matter will be presented to the residents and taxpayers of the Seaford Fire District and the Board of Fire Commissioners for public comment to the Board of Fire Commissioners so that all persons interested in the subject can be heard at such time and place.

Dated: May 27, 2025

Seaford, New York BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS SEAFORD FIRE DISTRICT

TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

ATTEST:

MICHAEL FORAN FIRE DISTRICT SECRETARY 153920

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and Municipal Home Rule of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 17th day of June, 2025, at 10:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day to consider the enactment of a local law to amend Section 197-5 of the code of the Town of Hempstead to INCLUDE “ARTERIAL STOPS” at the following locations:

ELMONT

DOHERTY AVENUE (TH 188/25) - STOP - All traffic traveling westbound on Sweetman Avenue shall come to a full stop.

DOHERTY AVENUE (TH 188/25) - STOP - All traffic traveling eastbound on Sweetman Avenue shall come to a full stop.

HEWLETT

MIDGLEY DRIVE (TH 204/25) - STOP - All traffic traveling southbound on East Broadway, shall come to a full stop.

MIDGLEY DRIVE (TH 204/25) - STOP - All traffic traveling northbound on East Broadway, shall come to a full stop.

SEAFORD

WAVERLY AVENUE (TH 166/25) - STOP - All traffic traveling northbound on Roy Place,shall come to a full stop.

ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.

Dated: May 27, 2025 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR. Supervisor

KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 153907

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 06/11/2025 at 9:30

A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:

THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30

A.M. 317/25. SEAFORDManny Mojica & Julianna Maldonado, Variance, front yard average setback, construct 2nd story addition, 2-story addition & roofed over open porch all attached to dwelling (demolish metal roof over open patio)., S/s Verona Pl., 325’ W/o Seaford Ave., a/k/a 3584 Verona Pl. 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 Seaford 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. 153894

Crime Brief

Alleged bat assault on Lyft driver leads to arrest of Seaford man

A Seaford man was arrested following an early morning assault on a Lyft driver, Nassau County police said.

According to detectives, officers from the Seventh Precinct responded to Sidney Court in Seaford at about 3:45 a.m. on May 30 for reports of a disturbance. Police said the 41-year-old male victim, who was working as a Lyft driver, got into a verbal argument with James Turchi, 46, of Mill Road.

The dispute escalated, police said, and Turchi

allegedly knocked the victim’s phone from his hand and struck him multiple times with a bat in the head and knee. The victim refused medical attention at the scene.

Turchi was arrested without incident and is charged with second-degree assault, third-degree criminal mischief, and fourthdegree criminal possession of a weapon. He was scheduled to be arraigned later that day at First District Court in Hempstead.

— Charles Shaw

James Turchi

Nassau County Crime Stoppers

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR SG MORTGAGE SECURITIES BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-FRE2, Plaintiffagainst - SUZANNE M. BRADY, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on March 15, 2019. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on the 8th day of July, 2025 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Wantagh, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau,

State of New York. Premises known as 3677 Smith Street, Wantagh, NY 11793.

(SBL#: 57-89-105) Approximate amount of lien $614,197.89 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 010340/2015. John G. Kennedy, Esq., Referee. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840 New York, NY 10170 Tel. 347/286-7409

For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832

Dated: May 1, 2025

During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and

maintaining social distancing (at least 6feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. 153853

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff AGAINST CHARLES MUSARRA, JOHN A. MUSARRA, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered November 6, 2017, I, the undersigned Referee

will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on July 9, 2025 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 2419 Cedar Street, Seaford, NY 11783. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Seaford, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 63, Block 269, Lot 17. Approximate amount of judgment $84,863.30 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #005165/2013. Christine Grillo, Esq, Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 18-003473 85857 153857

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Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

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OUTSIDE SALES

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

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To add a family room, will we need another garage?

Part 2.

Q. We want to add a family room at the back of our house. Even though we have over 50 feet to work with to the back property line, we are being told that our garage is a problem because it’s too close to the side property line, and when we attach the family room, we’ll need to get a zoning variance. If we take the garage down we have to put up another garage, because our building department requires us to have a garage. Why is this a problem, and how can we get around it? Our contractor said he could “take care of it,” that the garage shouldn’t be a problem, but so far that hasn’t happened, and we think we have to change our plans or not do the job.

A. As I described last week, there’s a bigger picture than just the couple of issues you describe. State rules and regulation codes are intended to keep us all safe from fire, wind, floods and other hazardous conditions. The building code has overlapping fire- protection requirements. A structure built closer than 3 feet to a property line must have fire-rated materials, as an “assembly,” including wall or roof interior and exterior materials.

I often get questions from contractors calling to ask why I showed fire-rated sheetrock on only the side walls and roofs of a garage facing a property line, with a specific fastening pattern and insulation, especially when the garage won’t be heated. They ask this because nobody requires them to know the building codes, even though most consumers are under the false impression that all contractors are well-versed in building codes. One such conversation, when a contractor called, led to 20 minutes of argument, because the contractor was repeating, “I’ve never had to do this, this is overkill, nobody does this, I’m not doing this…” I could only answer that it was required in the codes, and there wouldn’t have been a permit if the plans didn’t show this, and the owner needed to know if the construction wouldn’t pass inspection, leaving the owner with a possible violation and greater expense to fix incorrect work.

One of the reasons for this friction is because in the past, most garages were approved without these requirements. Regulations were not uniformly enforced, leaving contractors with the impression that these regulations were just for some but not for all. Although things may be changing, contractors, generally, aren’t held to a level of responsibility that would require them to sign documents for their work to show that they followed the law and that they are part of the safety process. In some departments, this is changing as building departments begin to recognize that everyone involved in a construction project, including the ones who construct, are part of the safety team. “Taking care of it” sounds illegal, with you, the owner left holding the bag. Good luck!

Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in

Stuff HERALD

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Dopinions Enhanced automatic voter registration is needed

emocracy begins at the ballot box. But for far too many Long Islanders—especially working-class residents, naturalized immigrants, and communities of color—that access remains out of reach. According to the Institute for Responsive Government, which reviewed data from the analytics firm Catalist, more than 400,000 eligible but unregistered voters live in Nassau and Suffolk counties. This is a crisis of representation. Long Islanders are working harder than ever to make ends meet, care for their families, and contribute to the future of their communities. Yet, when it comes to voting, the system still places unnecessary obstacles in the path of participation. Enhanced Automatic Voter Registration (EAVR) offers a simple, secure, and transformative solution. And Long Island stands to benefit significantly from this critical piece of legislation. Our current voter registration system is outdated, confusing, and inefficient. It

places the burden of registering entirely on individuals, many of whom are busy working multiple jobs, caring for children, or navigating bureaucratic systems in a second language. On Long Island and across New York State, this is particularly true for young people, lowincome residents, immigrants, and people of color. Enhanced Automatic Voter Registration offers a commonsense, modern solution to change this dynamic. By upgrading our current voter registration system, this legislation would register eligible voters automatically when they interact with government agencies, like the DMV or Medicaid, unless they choose to opt out. EAVR would streamline an unnecessarily complex process. Long Island residents wouldn’t have to deal with any more missed forms or waiting in line at confusing registration events, causing them to fall through the cracks.

An d when people vote, our government works better for everyone .

dence, and eligibility to vote in New York. This document-based verification will prevent noncitizens from inadvertently registering to vote and ensure that voters who have moved recently are registered at the correct address. Expanding voter participation, while preventing paperwork errors with potentially serious consequences, is critical on Long Island, where immigrant households often include both citizens and noncitizens and high mobility results in frequent address changes.

enhanced registration systems, voter participation has surged. For example, since Colorado implemented Enhanced Automatic Voter Registration in 2020, the state saw an increase of more than half a million registered and active voters. That’s no coincidence. And when people vote, our government works better for everyone.

Long Island’s future depends on inclusive democracy. We cannot afford to leave nearly half a million potential voters on the sidelines. The Enhanced Automatic Voter Registration act would bring us one step closer to a system where voting is not a privilege of the few, but a right accessible to all who qualify.

Enhanced Automatic Voter Registration will not just make voting more accessible, it will make our elections more secure. Under EAVR, state agencies that automatically register voters must first verify their citizenship, resi-

Beyond the logistical benefits, Enhanced Automatic Voter Registration would restore power to many people historically locked out of the electoral process. In Nassau and Suffolk Counties, hundreds of thousands of our neighbors are unable to influence key decisions about housing affordability, school funding, public transportation, and environmental safety. When more of our neighbors are registered, more of our voices are heard, and our democracy becomes more representative and more responsive.

The numbers speak for themselves. In states that have adopted similar

We must act now to ensure our local, state, and national elections reflect the real diversity and strength of our communities. For our neighborhoods, our families, and our future, it’s time for New York to pass Enhanced Automatic Voter Registration and make it law. Let’s unlock the power of Long Island’s people—and build a democracy that is truly representative of us all.

Assemblymember Charles David Lavine represents the 13th Assembly District and serves as Chair of the Judiciary Committee and as a member of the Committees on Codes, Ethics and Guidance, Rules, and Insurance.

CHARLEs

LAVinE

Empowering women to strengthen our communities

nassau County has seen enormous improvements during my time in office. Thanks to major investments in our police, fire services and infrastructure, we were named the safest county in America by U.S. News & World Report. We continued to improve public health, and were named one of the healthiest counties in the country by researchers at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin. We also distinguished ourselves from our in-state neighbors by being named the most desirable place to live in New York by Niche magazine. At the same time, my administration has worked tirelessly to put money into the pockets of Nassau County residents. When I came into office, I canceled a $150 million tax hike planned by the previous administration. Since taking office, I have not raised taxes by even a penny.

I am proud of all these accomplishments, and the work our local government does for every resident. However,

imy administration also offers tailored support to fit the needs of individual groups in our communities. For example, women in Nassau County can access many comprehensive services and tools that make them safer, healthier and more successful. They have access to more opportunities and resources than ever.

TFirst I want to talk about the success of our women entrepreneurs, who have taken a big step forward while I have been in office. Under the previous administration, there were 185 certified womenowned businesses in Nassau County. Since I have taken office, that number has increased to 317 — an increase of almost 72 percent.

he health and safety of our residents are always my top priority.

financial information. All these resources help women thrive in our county. Education is one of the main pillars of the center. The organization regularly offers programs throughout the county in public spaces that teach financial literacy, estate planning, leadership and other topics. For women juggling family duties with career and business aspirations, we also offer sessions focused on managing professional work while raising young children. These resources help bolster local businesses so all county residents can reap the benefits.

further support women who are fighting breast cancer. I am proud to have spearheaded the effort to create this invaluable resource when I was the presiding officer of the Nassau County Legislature. Under the stellar leadership of Executive Director Geri Barish, Hewlett House has provided a non-threatening, non-clinical, home-like environment to over 42,000 women, giving them a place to discuss treatments, therapies, financial options and many other topics.

The Nassau County Women’s Services Center for Women in Business & Leadership has helped drive this positive change by certifying new, womenowned businesses and providing education, tools and connections to the next generation of female business leaders. No matter where you are in your career, the Women’s Services Center can help you by setting up mentorship and networking opportunities, connecting you with community outreach programs, and providing important logistical and

The health and safety of our residents are always my top priority. While our amazing health care workers and institutions strive to keep all of us in good health, our county also offers specific health resources for women.

To support women fighting breast cancer, we are partnering with local hospitals to roll out a brand new mammography van that will use 3D, high-resolution mammography technology to increase breast cancer screenings by 40 percent. It will operate six days a week in our neighborhoods to bring lifesaving changes closer to our homes.

Nassau County also has an invaluable relationship with Hewlett House to

My administration’s support of women extends to those of all ages. One of the earliest and most important policies I enacted as county executive concerns fairness and safety in women’s and girls’ sports. In the first days of my administration, I signed a law proclaiming that boys play with boys and girls play with girls in Nassau County. Allowing biological males to compete in girls’ sports will never be fair. It compromises the privacy and safety of our female athletes, and I will not allow it to happen as long as I am in office.

While every resident is important in our county, I am especially proud of the opportunities and support that women enjoy in our communities. I intend to continue empowering them to achieve their greatest potential so we can continue living in the best county in the United States.

Bruce Blakeman is the county executive.

Texas to ban social media for kids: Yeehaw!

never thought I would say these words, but Texas is leading the way on protecting kids from social media abuse. You read that right. The Lone Star State is moving towards passing a bill that would shut down social media access to young children and teens. This is a win-win for children and for parents enlightened enough to see the proven dangers of too much media time, and then do something about it.

According to KSLA TV in Shreveport, “The Texas House of Representatives has passed a bill prohibiting people under age 18 from creating or using social media accounts … It aims to address the concern that social media has a negative impact on the mental health of young people. The bill was passed in a 116-25 vote with support from both sides of the aisle. “… Social media companies would be required to verify the age of their users. It would also allow parents to request that their child’s social media accounts be deleted, and companies would have to

remove the account within ten days.”

The bill is headed to the Texas Senate and could take effect on Sept. 1. Social media has long been associated with increased bullying among children, feelings of low self-esteem, and incidents of self-harm and increased depression. Yet, the kids can’t put down their phones. You don’t need me to tell you this if you’ve been in the company of teenagers recently.

As of 2025, 12 states have passed or are working on similar legislation, but the process is coming together slowly, and the kids are falling apart quickly.

Csent for social media are akin to age limits on drinking, driving, and smoking,” she said.

Cheng added, “No policy replaces the need for parents to have frank, open conversations with their kids on the inherent mental and physical risks involved … Informed kids become informed young adults who make better decisions.”

hildren don’t have the self-discipline to monitor their exposure to social media.

Danny Rivera, a New York City high school English teacher and father quoted on Investopedia, said, “Students are on social media so much — inside and outside the classroom — they end up losing track of basic needs like food and sleep. They routinely tell me that they choose ‘doomscrolling’ or working on a dance routine to post over getting rest on a school night.”

Susan Cheng, associate dean of public health at Tulane University, and with a teenager at home, told Investopedia that changes to kids’ access are common sense. “Guardrails around age of con-

New York State passed a squishy law that seems both difficult to understand and enforce. On websites like Facebook, X and TikTok, a complex set of algorithms helps create personalized feeds to keep users engaged on the platform for as long as possible. The State Legislature passed a bill last year that, according to a New York Times story, will disrupt the relationship between tech companies and young people by restricting the use of algorithms on minors’ social media feeds.

Many of these laws are complex and face endless challenges in court.

Maybe legislation is not the most effective, or only, way to lasso the social media giants. Our basic, common, core values compel us to do an intervention, at the family level, the state level, in the courts and schools. Unrestricted social

media is hurting our kids.

We need only look around to see the creepy fixation and attachment to phones pervasive in our culture. Adults have tools to self-regulate, but children are easy prey for financially motivated influencers and celebrities who are selling products and insecurity in equal measure. Visit a restaurant and see families eating together and apart with everyone on their own phone.

There are epidemics that kill and epidemics that diminish and pervert normal social development. Social media, especially too much too soon, is making our children, and especially our teenagers, less secure, more anxious and more vulnerable to companies who are using them for profit. Children don’t have the self-discipline necessary to monitor their exposure to social media. Kids I know have told me students use their phones in the classroom to check out social media, look up test answers, watch videos, or worse.

Kudos to Texas for moving ahead with big, bold legislation. New York must create child-protective laws that have teeth. It’s our job as citizens and our obligation as human beings to defend our children’s privacy and mental health.

RAnDi KREiss

BRUCE BLAKEMAn

Hurricane season is here — Prepare to be safe

as the calendar turns to June, the Atlantic hurricane season officially begins—and this year, forecasters are predicting an active one. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration projects an above-average number of storms, fueled by warm ocean temperatures and shifting climate patterns.

For many across Long Island that means more potential for destructive winds, flooding, and widespread power outages. Whether you live on the coast or in-land now is the time to prepare.

Every year, we’re reminded that hurricanes are among nature’s most powerful and unpredictable forces. Hurricane Sandy nearly 13 years ago offers sobering examples of what can happen when people are unprepared —or underestimate the threat.

Preparation isn’t just a matter of prudence; it’s a matter of survival.

First and foremost, build or update your emergency supply kit. It should include at least three days’ worth of food and water for each member of your household—one gallon of water per person, per day. Non-perishable foods such as canned goods, protein bars, peanut butter, and dried fruit are essentials. Don’t forget a manual can opener.

You’ll also need a flashlight with extra batteries, a portable phone charger (preferably solar or battery-powered), a first-aid kit, hygiene supplies, and copies

letters

Stop summer power shutoffs

To the Editor:

Summer is almost here, and with it will come deadly heat waves supercharged by the climate crisis.

Yet in 27 states, it’s perfectly legal for utility companies to shut off electricity on the hottest days of summer, leaving individuals and families without air conditioning in extreme temperatures and threatening their health and safety.

Shutting off power and preventing access to lifesaving air conditioning in the summer can have life-or-death consequences. We need to shine a spotlight on this critical issue and raise our voices to demand change.

This may not be Florida, Louisiana or Georgia, but it can still get plenty hot here in the summer.

Utility companies and local leaders everywhere must act to end utility shutoffs on the hottest days of summer. Save lives — stop the summer shutoffs.

of important documents stored in a waterproof container. Include any medications and special items for infants, the elderly or pets.

A battery-powered or hand-crank radio is crucial. But when the power goes out and cell service is spotty, local radio may be the only way to receive lifesaving information.

It’s also important to know your risk. Are you in a flood-prone zone? Is your home vulnerable to storm surge? Local emergency management offices and the Federal Emergency Management Agency websites provide hazard maps that can help you answer those questions. If you live in an evacuation zone, know your routes and have a plan for where you will go—whether it’s a public shelter, a hotel or a relative’s home inland. Secure your property. Trim trees and shrubs, clean gutters, and reinforce windows and doors. If advised to do so, board up windows with plywood. Move outdoor furniture and decorations indoors so they don’t become projectiles in high winds.

Don’t wait until the last minute to gather supplies. As storms approach, store shelves empty quickly, gas lines grow long, and traffic jams snarl evacuation routes. Acting early not only gives you peace of mind — it gives you options.

Perhaps the most vital part of hurricane preparedness is staying informed. Tune in regularly to trusted local news

sources, the National Hurricane Center, and the county’s emergency management office — NassauCountyny.gov. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and up-to-date information is key to making smart decisions.

Social media is helpful, but it’s also a breeding ground for misinformation. Always verify what you see with official sources. False rumors about evacuation orders or shelter availability can put lives at risk.

Sign up for emergency alerts on your phone. Many local governments offer text or email notifications for severe weather, road closures, and evacuation notices. Don’t ignore the warnings. When authorities urge you to evacuate, it’s not a suggestion — it’s a life-saving directive.

Disasters don’t discriminate. They affect young and old, rich and poor. But preparation can make a world of difference. Having a plan, gathering supplies, and staying informed can reduce injuries, save lives, and make recovery faster and less stressful.

This hurricane season, let’s not be caught off guard. The cost of inaction is simply too high. Talk to your family. Check in with neighbors, especially the elderly or those with disabilities. Preparedness is not just personal — it’s communal.

And by working together, we can save lives.

opinions

The good, the bad, and the ugly of FY 2026 budget

Late at night — over a month past deadline and under the cover of darkness — New York State’s FY 2026 budget was finally passed. What should have been a transparent and collaborative process became a case study in broken promises, misplaced priorities, and out-of-control spending.

The final price tag? More than $254 billion. That’s an increase of over $10 billion compared to last year and a nearly 50 percent jump since 2018, when Democrats assumed full control of state government.

Has the average New Yorker’s paycheck gone up 50 percent since 2018? Are our roads, schools, or public services 50 percent better? Are potholes being filled 50 percent faster? Didn’t think so.

Despite the governor’s spin, there’s no such thing as “savings” when spending explodes and working families keep fleeing the state in droves. And while she once promised her administration would usher in “a new era of transparency,” we haven’t seen a shred of it. In fact, the budget process was anything

but transparent. Not a single joint bipartisan budget subcommittee met before the final deal was hammered out behind closed doors. The governor’s idea of openness seems to involve backroom deals, last-minute language changes, and legislative votes in the middle of the night — so much for the “new era.” One of her own party members even described her approach as “nothing short of authoritarian.” That should concern every New Yorker who believes in good government.

The Good

back an unrealistic $20 billion electric school bus mandate, giving schools four more years to comply. And in a muchneeded victory for students, the budget funded free school meals statewide — because no child should be expected to learn on an empty stomach.

on e major win was securing increased CHIPS funding ... repairs to local roads.

Despite the dysfunction, there were a few bright spots worth acknowledging. One major win was securing increased CHIPS funding, which supports critical repairs to local roads. The budget also included improvements to involuntary commitment standards for individuals with serious mental illness, helping protect both those in crisis and the public. There was modest relief for families through an expansion of the Child Tax Credit and a reduction in the middleclass income tax rate, both of which are longtime Republican priorities aimed at easing the financial burden on working families. The Legislature also pushed

Letters

Protect first responders, don’t hinder newsgathering

To the Editor:

The Press Club of Long Island strongly opposes Nassau County’s newly enacted “First Responder Zone of Protection Act” for its potential to unlawfully restrict newsgathering — a fundamental right protected by the First Amendment.

The act empowers any first responder — including police officers, EMTs, firefighters, and others — to order someone to stay at least 15 feet away if they “reasonably believe” that person may pose a threat or interfere with their duties. Violating such a warning is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 or up to one year in jail.

Critically, the law does not define what constitutes a “reasonable” belief or what behavior may be considered a threat or interference. This gives first responders broad discretion, opening the door to subjective and inconsistent enforcement.

This law risks criminalizing the

These wins, however, are overshadowed by a series of costly and disappointing missteps. At the top of the list is a $1.4 billion MTA payroll tax hike — a direct tax on jobs — that hits small businesses already struggling to survive. That’s in addition to congestion pricing, another regressive measure that punishes commuters without improving infrastructure. The long-awaited “reforms” to the state’s disastrous discovery laws fell flat. Even Suffolk County’s district attorney admitted they fail to deliver meaningful relief to prosecutors or crime victims. The so-called “mask reform” is equally troubling, effectively incentivizing criminals to hide their identities. There was also a glaring lack of action on the rising epidemic of hate crimes and antisemitism. And the much-hyped inflation relief checks? Quietly reduced to a fraction of what New Yorkers were led to expect.

The Bad

public’s right to occupy public spaces and observe or record public officials — including law enforcement — performing their duties. As the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled, the First Amendment protects the right to challenge and criticize police and to record their actions in public (City of Houston v. Hill, 1987). Without that right, public accountability suffers.

The 15-foot buffer is arbitrary and could easily be manipulated to block the public from witnessing important events, particularly if multiple overlapping zones are created at once. Importantly, existing laws already give police the authority to manage truly unsafe or obstructive behavior.

This act, rather than promoting safety, appears aimed at shielding law enforcement from public scrutiny. If such a law had been in place in Minneapolis in 2020, the world might never have seen the video of George Floyd’s death — and Derek Chauvin might not have been held accountable.

The New York Civil Liberties Union warned Nassau lawmakers that this law is overly broad, likely unconstitutional, and destined for legal challenge. Nonetheless, the leg-

The Ugly

Then there are the decisions that go beyond bad policy — they’re indefensible. Buried in the budget is a $10 million criminal defense slush fund allowing public employees to use taxpayer dollars to defend themselves for “unofficial duties.” You can’t make this stuff up. But perhaps the ugliest moment came after over two hours of intense debate, when the state greenlit a hostile takeover of Nassau University Medical Center. This blatant power grab strips local control from a vital community institution and throws its future into complete uncertainty.

At the end of the day, this budget doesn’t move New York forward — it entrenches a failing status quo of higher taxes, reckless spending, and fewer results for hardworking residents. But while the budget may be done, the legislative session is not. There are still opportunities to demand better, to fight for real reforms, and to restore transparency, accountability, and common sense in Albany.

New Yorkers deserve leadership that puts people before politics — and the fight for that kind of leadership continues every single day.

Steve Rhoads represents the 5th State Senate District.

Framework by Tim Baker

islature passed it unanimously. Laws that hinder public oversight of police don’t enhance safety — they erode constitutional rights, undermine transparency, and damage trust in law enforcement.

DENISE CIVILETTI Vice president

Aerial view of the Jones Beach Water Tower — famously known as “the pencil.” — Wantagh

PCLI