Wantagh’s, from left, John Gendels, Joe Nicholson, Dylan Martini and Devin Paccione had the Long Island Class C championship hardware on display after the Warriors beat Kings Park, 16-15, at Hofstra June 4. Story, additional photos, Page 6.
By CHARlES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com
Volunteers armed with trash bags and grabbers fanned out across Mill Pond Preserve May 31 during a community cleanup organized by Save the Great South Bay in partnership with the Wantagh Lions Club.
Lions Club members, wearing safety harnesses, helped collect roughly 800 pounds of debris from inside and along the 15-acre preserve, located near Lakeview Road and Sunrise Highway near the Wantagh and Bellmore border. The effort was part of Save the Great South Bay’s Creek Defender program, which mobilizes vol -
unteers to clean and protect about 50 South Shore creeks that flow into the bay.
Coordinating with the Lions for the volunteer cleanup was James Pertsch, a board member of Save the Great South Bay and chairman of the Creek Defender program, who provided about two dozen volunteers with the equipment needed to clean the area.
“This is a pretty complex waterway system,” Pertsch said. “We have to do something to pick up garbage and get people outside to do something positive.”
According to its website, Save the Great South Bay is a nonprofit organization dedicated to revi-
By NIColE ToBIA Correspondent
Wantagh Middle School students recently paused from their busy schedules to write heartfelt letters — each one addressed to the parents of Matthew Lynch, a U.S. Marine who gave his life in Iraq. Mary DeGregorio, the school’s library assistant, spearheaded the touching project to make sure the students realize the importance of Memorial Day and to teach them the value of honoring those who lost their lives fighting for their country. Around 50 letters were written as the Herald went to press.
to those who knew him. He was a star athlete in high school and college and spent his summers as a lifeguard at Jones Beach. After graduating from Duke University, Lynch made the courageous decision to join the U.S. Marine Corps, following in the footsteps of both his father, Bill, and brother, Tim.
e have come so far away from the true meaning of Memorial Day.
MARy DEGREGoRIo Library assistant, Wantagh Middle School
Starting on May 21, DeGregorio set a desk right outside her office with pens and premade cards at the ready. She created this with the hopes that students could express their gratitude to the parents of Lynch for the bravery that their son exemplified throughout his life.
Lynch, a Jericho native, was a driven and dedicated son, brother and friend, according
On Oct. 31, 2004, at age 25, Lynch was killed in action serving overseas in Iraq. Lynch’s father was a Marine who made casualty calls during his time serving a short tour at the Marine Corps District Headquarters in Garden City. When he saw the two Marines dressed in blue uniforms walking toward him as he arrived home with his wife, he knew they were going to be told the worst possible news — that their son had been killed in combat.
DeGregorio explained that she wanted students to focus on the true meaning of Memorial Day, adding that she felt barbecues and pool parties overshad-
Continued on page 8
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By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com
The Wantagh School District has been granted an extension to comply with New York State’s ban on Native American mascots and imagery, according to a news reports. The district now has until the end of June to make necessary changes to its Warriors mascot and branding.
Also receiving more time is the Connetquot School District, which now has until March 1, 2026, to comply with the state regulation, according to News 12. The Massapequa School District, meanwhile, is continuing to challenge the ban in court.
The regulation at the center of the dispute was adopted by the New York State Board of Regents in April 2023 and directs school districts to discontinue the use of Native American mascots, names and logos. Schools that fail to comply by the end of the 2024–25 school year risk losing state aid but may apply for an extension if they demonstrate progress.
Opposition to the mandate has grown among several Long Island districts, including Wantagh, which filed a federal lawsuit last fall with Wyandanch, Connetquot and Massapequa. The suit was dismissed in March by U.S. Chief District Judge Margo Brodie, who ruled the districts lacked legal standing and did not provide sufficient evidence of harm. Wantagh officials have said they intend to appeal.
In April, Superintendent John McNamara said the district was disappointed by the ruling and would “explore all available options.” While Wantagh has planned to eliminate Native American imagery, it has sought to retain the War-
riors name, arguing that the term is a general symbol of strength and not inherently Indigenous.
A separate effort to keep the name is also underway in Albany. A bill sponsored by State Sen. Steve Rhoads seeks to exempt Wantagh from the ban, citing the community’s historical connection to Chief Wantagh, a Grand Sachem of the Montaukett tribe. The bill remains under review in the Senate Education Committee.
The federal government is now also weighing in. U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon visited Massapequa on May 30 and said her office is reviewing whether the state’s regulation could violate the First Amendment’s free speech protections. McMahon addressed a crowd of residents, school leaders and elected officials, and said she is prepared to raise the issue with the U.S. Department of Justice if necessary.
“We take constitutional concerns seriously and are committed to ensuring that all voices are heard,” McMahon said.
Members of the Shinnecock Nation and other Native advocates have argued that Indigenous people should not be used as mascots, calling the practice demeaning and outdated. Josephine Smith, director of the Shinnecock Cultural Resources Department, has said such symbols reduce Native people to stereotypes.
Wantagh officials have said their actions reflect strong community support. A district survey conducted last summer drew over 900 responses, with more than 88 percent in favor of keeping the Warriors name.
Additional reporting by Carolyn James
By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com
Two Wantagh teachers who left lasting impressions on their students — including one who became valedictorian and went on to graduate from Harvard University — were recognized this year by the Harvard Club of Long Island.
Kathleen Stuart, a biology and chemistry teacher at Wantagh High School, and Christine Hult, an eighth grade English teacher at Wantagh Middle School, were each awarded the 2025 Distinguished Teacher Award by the Harvard Club. The honor recognizes Long Island educators who “transform student lives” through academic challenge, support and inspiration, according to the club.
Stuart and Hult were nominated by Wantagh alum Melanie Volz, the 2021 valedictorian who recently graduated from Harvard with a degree in applied mathematics. As a student, Volz had been part of Hult’s English class and Stuart’s honors chemistry class. She also served as president of the World Food Club, one of the many extracurriculars Stuart advises.
“I was always amazed by how detail oriented Miss Stuart was and how caring and compassionate she was towards students,” Volz said.
For Stuart, the award was especially meaningful — her husband, Salvatore MulÈ, received the same honor two years earlier. Her husband, who taught at
Wantagh High School before retiring, helped build the hydroponics lab that Stuart now uses in her sustainable agriculture classes.
KAtHLEEn
StuARt
“I’m happy to see that what we do here has an impact on our kids and they don’t forget about it once they leave,” Stuart said. “It stays with them. They carry it with them in the years beyond school.”
Stuart teaches sustainable agriculture to middle and high school students, guiding them through hydroponics, agriculture and real-world problem solving around food sustainability.
Students have become so inspired by her courses, she said, that they’ve built their own growing systems at home — and some have even expressed interest in pursuing agricultural fields in college.
“It means everything,” Stuart said. “We need people to be able to do this. We have such a growing population, and we’re going to need more food. This is really important work.”
Stuart also leads the World Food Club, where students explore global cultures through cuisine and music. A former assistant principal at Wantagh Middle
CHRiStinE
HuLt
School, she returned to the classroom to reconnect with students. Her advice to fellow educators? Have fun with it.
“If you’re engaged in the topic and you’re excited about it, then they will be as well,” she said.
“Students are very good at picking up on the energy that you have in your classroom.”
Hult has been teaching eighth grade English at Wantagh Middle School since 1996, and has more than 30 years of experience as an educator. She earned her undergraduate degree in English from Michigan State University and later completed a master’s in education at Hofstra University. She’s known for encouraging students to explore literature and writing in a way that reflects their individuality.
“I just believe in letting kids be themselves as much as you can,” Hult said, “and try not to shape them or mold them into a certain vision that you have, because only when they are allowed to be themselves will they be open-minded enough to take what it is that you’re teaching them.”
She also organizes the Word on the Street Literacy Celebration, where sixth,
seventh and eighth graders share their original work or read favorite pieces aloud — an event designed to celebrate student creativity.
Hult recalled Volz as “sophisticated beyond her years,” praising her drive and determination.
“That’s pretty rare at that age,” Hult said, “to have someone who sets a goal and then takes steps to achieve that goal.”
Volz said Hult was the first teacher who taught her the importance of learning from mistakes. In eighth grade English, after receiving a grade below 90 on a paper for the first time, she initially avoided reading the comments. But once she did, she found the feedback valuable and said it helped her grow as a writer. Hult, she said, prepared her for the critical feedback she would later face in college.
“Miss Hult taught me to be OK with making mistakes, but also knowing that mistakes are OK if you learn from them,” Volz said.
Volz has nominated other teachers in past years, including English teacher Heather Naughton, whom she described as a “fearless advocate” and mentor. She also nominated physics teacher Richard Colavita, noting his passion for teaching and curiosity about the world.
“They did teach a wide variety of life skills,” Volz said of her high school teachers, “and just also understanding how to perceive the world outside Wantagh.”
Danny Donahue is a familiar face at Wantagh High School, thanks to his wide-ranging involvement in academics, student leadership and community service. His dedication recently earned him the prestigious SHIELD Award from Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly.
n He’s deeply involved in student life
Danny serves as co-president of the school’s general organization and is one of two student liaisons to the Wantagh Board of Education. He’s also held the position of Class of 2026 president for three years, and participates in several extracurricular groups including Peer Mentors, honor societies, and the Surfride Oceanic Conservation Club, where he is treasurer.
n He leads with service
This school year, Danny helped organize a book drive for the Book Fairies through the National English Honor Society and led a student letter-writing campaign for veterans at the Northport VA Medical Center. His efforts reflect the SHIELD Award’s values: service, honesty, integrity, excellence, leadership and duty.
n
Outside the classroom, Danny is a captain of the varsity volleyball team and also plays tennis. He serves as the string ensemble liaison to the Wantagh Performing Arts Booster Club, showing his commitment to both athletics and the arts.
talizing the bay. Its members include South Shore residents past and present—baymen, fishermen, boaters, paddleboarders, surfers, sailors—as well as environmentalists, civic associations, schools, and marine scientists, all working together for the cause.
This was the first time Save the Great South Bay launched a Creek Defender program at Mill Pond, according to Pertsch. Wantagh Lions Club past president and current member Joe D’Amelio suggested the idea of becoming Creek Defenders for Mill Pond to the club. It was also the club’s first environmental cleanup since its reformation in 2012, D’Amelio added.
“It’s a great thing for Wantagh because it’s showing that there are people in the community that are concerned about the community,” D’Amelio said.
In Wantagh, the Lions support a variety of community efforts. Last December, they participated in Wreaths Across America, helping lay wreaths at Pinelawn Cemetery in Farmingdale to honor veterans. Each year, they also deliver saplings to local elementary schools as part of an Arbor Day tradition, encouraging students to plant trees.
Lions member and former Nassau County Legislator David Denenberg said South Shore ponds like Mill Pond
The philosopher Epictetus said “Men are disturbed not by events, but by the views they take of them.” Arising out of “The Good Life”, by Robert Waldinger, MD, comes the W.I.S.E.R. model for reacting to emotionally challenging situations.
Watch. Initial impressions are powerful but may be incomplete. There is usually more to see. When the impression and the emotional response start to interact, take a moment to pause and thoughtfully observe the situation to prevent a potentially harmful reflexive response. As they say in psychiatry “Don’t just do something, sit there.”
Interpret. We are all seeing the world through our own eyes – what is happening, why it is happening and how it affects us. Our reality is not necessarily that of others. Thinking that a situation is all about us often leads to misunderstanding. When your emotions start to bubble up, it indicates you have something important at stake – a goal, an insecurity or a vital relationship. Figuring out what’s at stake will allow you to interpret the situation better.
once served as drinking water sources for the Brooklyn Water Works.
Wantagh Lions First Vice President Larry Lamendola said the club will serve as the official Creek Defenders for Mill Pond and plans to make the cleanup an annual tradition.
“We want to do more,” Lamendola said. “We just do what we can for the community in many ways.”
Lions members also brought their children to aid in the cleanup. Member Chris Quinn said he hopes more kids
Select. Having watched, interpreted and reinterpreted, you must select your response. Instead of reacting reflexively out of stress, slowing down allows us to choose from more options. As “The Good Life” says “Given what’s at stake and the resources at my disposal, what can I do in this situation? What would be a good outcome here? And what is the likelihood that things will go well if I respond this way instead of that way?”
Engage. Now you are ready to respond more purposefully – aligning with who you are and what you want to accomplish. You’ve observed and interpreted the situation, taken some time to consider the possibilities and their likelihood of success, and you then execute your strategy.
Reflect. “How did that work out? Did I make things better or worse? Have I learned something new about the challenge I’m facing and about the best response? Reflecting on our response to a challenge can yield dividends for the future. It’s in learning from experience that we fully grow wiser.”
will be involved with the cleanup in the future.
“It’s a nice way to give back,” Quinn said. “I picked up plastic and garbage. I picked up a pair of sweatpants and a pair of gloves, but plastic is my main target, because it doesn’t degrade.”
According to Pertsch, plastic is one of the most common types of debris found during cleanups. He noted that waterways like Mill Pond flow directly into the South Shore bays, making them a potential source of pollution if not
properly maintained. His tips for keeping local waterways clean include securing lids on garbage cans and never dumping trash illegally.
For Pertsch, maintaining the Great South Bay and its surrounding waterways depends on increased community involvement.
“Get outside and do something positive,” he said.
For more information, visit SavetheGreatSouthbay.org.
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By DYLAN BUTLER sports@liherald.com
The Wantagh boys’ lacrosse team is making the spectacular look routine.
For a second consecutive championship game, the Warriors rallied from a significant deficit to earn a dramatic win, coming back from five goals down to defeat Kings Park, 16-15, in the Long Island Class C final at Hofstra’s Shuart Stadium June 4.
Wantagh, which erased a four-goal deficit in an 11-10 overtime win over South Side in the county final May 31 at Hofstra, advances to meet Somers in the NYSPHSAA Class C regional final on Saturday.
“They are battle-tested and they are ready to respond to all adversity at all times,” Wantagh coach James Polo said. “They just rally the troops and it’s a great feeling to see them succeed when they’re down and never quit and play to the last whistle. They have faith in each other. It’s one of those really special things with this group.”
Kings Park (16-3) raced out to a 7-3 first-quarter lead when Jack Salva’s extra-man goal capped a 4-0 run in 36 seconds.
The Kingsmen’s lead ballooned to 10-5 when Salva wrapped around the cage for his fourth goal with 8:35 left in the second quarter.
The Warriors (15-4) responded by scoring the final four goals of the first half — the first two from Luke Martini in 22 seconds and the final two by Carter Loughman to cut the deficit to 10-9 at the halftime break.
The two teams went punch for punch in the third quarter and Kings Park went into the final frame with a twogoal lead thanks to a goal by Luke Griffin from a Salva skip pass.
Aidan Barbosa gave the Kingsmen a 14-12 lead with 9:51 left, but then the Warriors took over.
First, Luke Martini pulled Wantagh back a goal with 7:58 left, and then Loughman tied the score at 14 with 6:07 remaining with his fourth goal.
Devin Paccione dodged to the cage and scored his third goal to give Wantagh its first lead of the game at 15-14 with 2:58 left.
The Villanova-bound junior extended that lead to 16-14 off a feed from Joe Nicholson with 1:27 left.
“It felt great,” Paccione said. “The team trusted me to make a play when we needed one, and I felt like when I had the ball and everyone was telling me to go to the net, I trusted my teammates, and as much as they put their trust in me, I just made a play.”
Salva made it a one-goal game with his sixth goal with 56.6 seconds remaining in regulation.
A Barbosa ground ball ensured the Kingsmen would have possession with 30 seconds left. The possible equalizer by Salva clanged off the crossbar, and then Luke Perfetti blocked another Salva salvo with 11 seconds left to secure Wantagh’s first Long Island championship since 2001.
“As awesome as it feels to win both of those, no one’s really satisfied yet,” Paccione said. “We’re going to keep going, we’re going to keep fighting until we get to the ultimate goal, which is a state championship.”
By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
It’s not often a baseball game is decided in the first inning, however that was the case in the Long Island Class A championship at Middle Country Athletic Complex in Selden June 5 when Sayville dodged a bullet in the top half and pushed across the lone run in the bottom half for a 1-0 victory over Wantagh.
“If I would’ve know it was going to end 1-0, we would’ve tried to move the runners over in the top of the first,” said Wantagh coach Keith Sachs, referring to the Warriors’ drawing back-to-back walks to open the game. “I thought we were going to put up a nice crooked number in the first,” he added. “It’s a tough one to lose. We didn’t get much going and neither did they. Infielders on both teams made all the plays on the turf. The toughest part is not having another practice with these guys. It’s an awesome group.”
Christian Danzilo pitched another gem for Wantagh allowing just two hits. The game’s lone run was scored on a sacrifice fly off the bat of Sayville catcher Shane Meehan, who’s battery mate to open the game was lifted after two batters.
Relievers Joe Strining and Tyler Brown were terrific taking the mound after starting at first base and left field, respectively.
Strining recorded a double play grounder to Kyle Messina at shortstop to end the top of the first and went four innings. Brown earned the save retiring all nine batters he faced.
“Both of those guys were ready to go and wanted the ball,” Sayville coach Joe Esposito said. “The moment that can turn a game around can happen at any time. Joe has been one of our main relievers and is always effective, never allowed a run all season. He’s perfect in that spot because he doesn’t show a lot of emotion, just goes out and does the job.
Then Tyler came in and was just unbelievable. He was lights-out.”
The Warriors managed three hits against Strining and had runners on first and second in the second and fourth innings but were unable to cash in.
In the meantime, Danzilo kept the Golden Flashes in check and the margin at one throughout. He stranded runners in scoring position in the second, third and sixth.
“Nothing bothers Christian, he has such a great demeanor on the mound,” Sachs said of Wantagh’s ace. “You can’t tell if he’s pitching in a scrimmage or a championship game. He looked great today it’s too bad we couldn’t get him a couple of runs.”
Messina had eight putouts for Sayville, which captured its first L.I. title since 2019 and second in program history.
“It was an intense game,” Messina said. “We lost some heartbreakers in the playoffs the past few years. The way this feels I can’t even describe it.”
owed the day’s significance.
“We have come so far away from the true meaning of Memorial Day,” she said. “I feel like the idea of honoring the soldiers is being lost.”
After searching through numerous stories of different soldiers, DeGregorio explained that she felt drawn to Lynch’s story and decided that she was going to select him as the hero the students would honor.
As a child of a World War II veteran, DeGregorio explained that she always had a profound respect for those who have served their country, but this project made her feel even more connected to Memorial Day. She hoped to make it an annual event, spotlighting a different soldier each year.
DeGregorio also reached out to Lynch’s parents, who expressed appreciation that their son’s legacy continues to be honored years later.
Many of the students said they were impacted by the project, viewing it as the perfect opportunity to express their gratitude to a family who lost their son, and to pay tribute to him.
“It is important to honor the fallen soldiers on Memorial Day who made the ultimate sacrifice,”
Michele Izzo, a sixth grader, said.
The letter-writing project allowed many of the students to understand the meaning of sacrifice and service, and they expressed how this experience changed their perspectives on Memorial Day.
“This project is really important,” Giuliana Venuti, a seventh grader, said. “It helps to humanize (Lynch). I feel like a lot of people think Memorial Day is the start of summer, and they do not realize how grateful we should be for the people who lost their lives for us.”
Joe Valentino, a Wantagh High School senior who will soon join the Marine Corps, emphasized the
Wantagh middle School students wrote letters to honor fallen u.S. marine matthew Lynch — a project led by library assistant mary degregorio to teach the true meaning of memorial day.
importance of honoring those who have fought for their country and lost their lives in the process. Valentino said that joining the Marines is a journey he is excited to embark on. He is set to join the Marines on July 15.
“I think the importance of Memorial Day goes over a lot of people’s heads,” Valentino said. “It’s not easy being in the Marines. That’s why the Marines’ slogan is ‘The Few, The Proud,’ because not everyone can do it.”
The students were allowed to continue writing letters until June 6, and DeGregorio will mail them to Lynch’s parents, who live in North Carolina — a gesture she hopes will offer them comfort and remind them that their son’s legacy continues to inspire and be remembered all these years later.
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
With participation from more than two dozen Jewish organizations and over 100 synagogues, the Israelfest Celebrate Israel Concert drew thousands to Eisenhower Park’s Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre on Sunday for what organizers called the largest celebration of Israel on Long Island.
The free festival, held June 8, was hosted in collaboration with the Jewish Community Relations Council–Long Island and blended Israeli music, culture, and community in a bold affirmation of unity, amid rising antisemitism and global unrest. Nassau County police officers were on-site to ensure a safe and welcoming experience for all.
Rona Blau, a Levittown resident who attended the event, spoke highly of the security measures taken to ensure the safety of those attending. “There’s policemen everywhere you look,” she said, “and they’re paying attention. I know it’s their job — but they’re doing a wonderful job, and I really do want to say thank you.”
“In a world of misinformation, Israelfest is a coming together of families and friends from across the Island who care about truth, who love Israel, and cherish its existence,” said David Black, executive director of Sid Jacobson JCC. “It is a grand statement that
we not only dance again, but that we stand and sing in harmony with our brothers and sisters across the sea.”
Noam Buskila, a celebrated Israeli vocalist and IDF reservist, headlined a musical lineup that included Rick Recht and Hadar & Sheldon Low. U.S.
Rep. Tom Suozzi, who represents New York’s 3rd Congressional District, was ceremonially honored for his steadfast support of Israel.
In addition to live performances, the event featured family-friendly activities, dancing, food vendors, shopping, and an inviting atmosphere for all ages.
“Israelfest provides the perfect opportunity for us to come together and embrace the spirit, culture, and resilience of Israel,” said Dagan Cohen, director and senior shaliach of the Randie Waldbaum Malinsky Center for Israel.
“Israelfest is a glowing celebration of unity and community spirit,” Lauren Chizner, director of Jewish Life + Learning at Sid Jacobson JCC, said. “As we gather across Long Island to honor Israel, we strengthen our connections, share in our pride, and build a future rooted in shared values and collective joy.”
The celebration was made possible through the support of UJA-Federation of New York and County Executive Bruce Blakeman, in partnership with the JCC Association of North America,
The Jewish Agency for Israel, and the Long Island Jewish Coalition.
“This event is a message that our murdered brethren and the fallen in Israel will not have died in vain, and
Hundreds gathered at israelfest in eisenhower park on June 8, celebrating Jewish heritage, culture and music. Benni riven, 5, of merrick, had her face painted at the event.
Tim Baker/Herald
the hostages—those still living and those who were murdered — will not be forgotten,” Black said. We rejoice as we remember. We remember as we rejoice.”
It’s a surprisingly common issue—about half of men in the United States experience symptoms of sexual health disorders, such as erectile dysfunction, Peyronie’s disease, and premature ejaculation. These disorders impact relationships and affect one’s quality of life.
They are also linked to serious chronic health risks, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, hypertension, anxiety, and depression. Yet men are often hesitant to seek help, due to embarrassment, lack of awareness that treatments are available, or the belief that these disorders are a normal part of aging.
But men do not have to suffer in silence. At Mount Sinai South Nassau, a new service offers treatment options for an array of men’s sexual health disorders in an environment that respects the patient’s dignity and confidentiality.
Mahyar Kashani, MD, Director of Men’s Sexual Health at Mount Sinai South Nassau, says an array of options are available to address male sexual disorders. “Men across Long Island with erectile dysfunction no longer need to suffer in silence,” said Dr. Kashani. “We have established this program to provide patients with not only support and compassion, but also with specialized surgical and therapeutic treatments that will relieve them of the physical and psychological burdens of their condition. We want our patients to enjoy their sexual health to its fullest!”
Born and raised on Long Island, Dr. Kashani is committed to providing exceptional care to his community. Dr. Kashani sees
Mahyar Kashani, MD, Director of Male Sexual Health at Mount Sinai South Nassau offers an array of options to address male sexual disorders in his patients.
patients at multiple locations on Long Island, including at the Mount Sinai Doctors Carle Place and Rockville Centre locations, and is dedicated to delivering top-quality, accessible care. He offers both nonsurgical and surgical options to address erectile dysfunction and other sexual disorders. He completed a medical degree and a urologic surgery residency at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences Center in Brooklyn, and completed a fellowship in male sexual health and reproductive medicine at Lenox Hill
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Hospital in New York City.
Under the direction of Dr. Kashani, Mount Sinai South Nassau Men’s Sexual Medicine program specializes in personalized, proven treatments including:
• Testosterone replacement therapy—topical gels and injectable and oral therapies to treat problems such as low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, or fatigue
• Treatments for erectile dysfunction—oral (Viagra, Cialis), injectable (TriMix), and other treatments
• Penile implants—surgical option for men with advanced erectile dysfunction
• Premature ejaculation—behavioral changes, topical therapies, oral therapies
Dr. Kashani is also proficient in treating a wide range of general urological conditions as well, such as kidney stones, enlarged prostate, urinary dysfunction, and overactive bladder. For more information about Mount Sinai South Nassau Men’s Sexual Health program or to schedule a consultation, visit southnassau.org, call 516-390-2850 (Rockville Centre) or call 516-877-0977 (Carle Place).
The new Fennessy Family Emergency Department at Mount Sinai South Nassau doubles the size of our previous emergency department, o ering 54 private exam rooms with clear lines of sight for physicians, nurses, and support sta . Our new emergency department also o ers a separate triage area, dedicated areas for children and behavioral health patients, and has been designed to reduce wait times and improve patient outcomes.
The Fennessy Family Emergency Department is located within the new Feil Family Pavilion, opening later this year, which will have 40 new critical care suites and nine new operating rooms, designed to support the most complex surgeries on the South Shore.
To learn more visit www.mountsinai.org/feilpavilion
Most of us grew up hearing the same refrain: It’s important to eat your vegetables. But between cruciferous, allium, marrow, root, and so many more, it can be hard to identify the different types of vegetables and their nutritional benefits. Vegetables with a high water content are known for their refreshing taste, delicious flavor, and hydrating effect. Plant-based foods packed with water and fiber content leave you feeling full, but without feeling bloated.
But are high-water-content vegetables enough to maintain your overall health? Let the nutrition experts weigh in.
Nutritional benefits are real
Water-rich vegetables carry essential nutrients, according to Caroline Schneider, MS, RD.
“Cucumbers and celery provide vitamin K–needed for bone health–and antioxidants, while tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant associated with decreased risk for cardiovascular disease and prostate cancer,” she explains.
Similarly, lettuce — which is often written off as a nutritionless vegetable — contains nutrients like folate and vitamins A and C, which help with cell function, vision health, and immune function. These innately hydrating vegetables are great sources of
nutrients.
On the top of the list for nutritional value
According to nutrition expert Kimberly Snyder, water-dense spinach is one of the most nutrient-packed vegetables, with high levels of vitamins A, C, and K as well as iron and magnesium. Snyder and Schneider both recommend celery as another nutrient-dense vegetable, noting it as a great source of vitamin K, folate, fiber, potassium, and calcium. There’s virtually no way to go wrong with these vitamin-rich vegetables.
Overall, “tomatoes, zucchini, and celery provide the most nutritional value,” Schneider says. “Tomatoes offer 30 percent of the daily value of vitamin C along with a high amount of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant associated with lowering chronic disease risk. Zucchini provides 40 percent of our daily intake of vitamins A, B, C, potassium, and magnesium.”
If you can’t decide which water-based vegetable to snack on or toss into a dish, opt for these three superstars.
Hydration boost Thankfully, our daily water intake includes the water-based vegetables we eat.
“Data shows that we get about 20 percent of our daily water needs from food alone, especially fruits and vegetables,” says
Schneider.“While these foods do not replace the need for drinking water, they can help with your daily fluid intake and can be part of a balanced approach to staying hydrated.”
That doesn’t mean you should neglect your daily water drinking goals (at least eight cups a day), but with this knowledge, you can enhance the hydration experience. Some cucumber water, perhaps?
When to add water-based vegetables to your meal plan
The best time to eat water-based vegetables is anytime, but especially to avoid the
midday slump, according to Snyder and Schneider. They can be incorporated into your meals or consumed as an energyboosting afternoon snack — think celery and hummus, tomato and zucchini minestrone, cucumber and spinach green juice, and so much more.
For a more comprehensive vegetable intake, consider tossing all your favorite water-based vegetables into a delicious salad to completely satisfy your hunger.
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ctive aging – the process of optimizing opportunities for better health, continuing development of knowledge, and increased security in order to maximize quality of life as you age. The word ‘active’ is used to describe a person’s involvement with social, physical, economic, spiritual and civic affairs. We all share the same goal to maintain autonomy and independence as we age, and thus we must rely on preserving the tenants of interdependence (socialization and reliance on family and loved ones) and intergenerational solidarity (maintaining companionship with agematched peers) to insure active aging. Both social isolation and depression are major risk factors for the development of dementia, and both increase as we age. Being a lifelong learner and staying active is important to maintain a healthy, active brain, and can also reduce your risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Some studies have shown that social activities, larger social networks, and a history of social contact are associated with better cognitive function and reduced risk for cognitive decline.
Tips for active aging include:
• Share a meal with family and friends 3-5 times per week
• Commit to an aerobics / exercise regiment
• Learn a new hobby each year
• Play an instrument (learn a new instrument if you already know how to play one)
• If you love to read — keep reading. If you don’t read much, try to read a book every other month
By MOHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com
After more than 17 years leading Long Island Cares, President and CEO Paule Pachter has announced his retirement. He will assume the title of president emeritus in an advisory capacity and remain in his current role until a successor is named.
“My time at Long Island Cares has been the most rewarding and productive period of my 46-year history of working in the nonprofit human services sector on Long Island,” Pachter, 71, said in a news release. “Along with our dedicated staff, we have transformed the role of a traditional food bank and developed innovative and effective programs to support those in need.
Long Island Cares is a regional food bank and nonprofit organization headquartered in Hauppauge.
Founded to combat food insecurity across Long Island, it provides emergency food assistance, distributes nutritious groceries, and offers support services to individuals and families in need. The organization operates a network of pantries and distribution centers, including locations in Freeport, Lindenhurst, and Bethpage.
As food insecurity continues to affect an estimated 121,000 Long Islanders, including 65,000 children, Long Island Cares has sought to expand its outreach, opening another pantry in Valley Stream last August.
“I have had the privilege of working with a dedicated team and supportive board of directors that few others have experienced. I’m extremely proud to have had the opportunity to impact the way we respond to food insecurity on a local, state, and national level through my involvement in the Feeding America network,” Pachter said in the release.
“I look forward to welcoming the next president and
CEO of this historic organization in my new role as President Emeritus,” he added. “We have so much more to do to respond to hunger and to what Harry Chapin said ‘was the shame of America.’”
During Pachter’s tenure, Long Island Cares expanded its services significantly, launching mobile food distribution efforts, veterans’ initiatives, and Baxter’s Pet Pantry, among other community-focused programs.
“When I came to Long Island Cares (the cash on hand was about $8.5 million),” Pachter told the Herald. “As I’m leaving, our budget is $41 million.”
Pachter, who grew up in Brooklyn, led the organization through the creation of multiple satellite pantries, beginning with its Freeport location in 2009. He cited support from Mayor Robert Kennedy and former legislator Dave Denenberg in helping to make the pantry a reality.
Under Pachter, Long Island Cares launched mobile outreach for seniors, veterans and the homeless; and introduced a children’s breakfast food truck. He also expanded advocacy work and government relations.
Pachter was a social worker and served as a Nassau County Department of Mental Health deputy commissioner. He was in an administrative role for United Cerebral Palsy and then a deputy executive director at Central Nassau Guidance and Counseling Services. “It has always been a passion for me to help people in need,” he said.
“Paule has been an immeasurable asset to Long Island Cares,” David Herold, Long Island Cares board president said in the release. “Paule’s drive and ingenuity led to the creation of many programs and services, including mobile food pantries, a food pantry network, a variety of veterans’ programs, and Baxter’s Pet Pantry. “Not only does Paule’s legacy greatly benefit Long Islanders every day, but his broad vision has been duplicated by food banks nationally to benefit our country’s food insecure,” Herold added.
He said that other than founders Harry and Sandy Chapin, no one person has had a greater impact at Long Island Cares than Paule Pachter. “It has been an honor and privilege to work with him,” he said. “I and the entire board look forward to continuing to work with Paule through and after this transition.”
By MADISON GUSLER
Over 750 members of Long Island’s business community joined the Herald for the fourth annual Herald Long Island Choice Award’s ceremony. People packed the ballroom at Crest Hollow County Club to hear about the best Long Island has to offer.
The Long Island Choice Awards presented by PSEG Long Island on May 13 is a community choice award organized by RichnerLIVE Events that involves local communities in electing the best businesses in a range of categories. Companies and organizations across the Island are elected in 250 categories before undergoing three rounds of voting to whittle away the top three competitors. The winners are announced at the annual gala and are officially recognized as the best Long Island has to offer.
This year’s event was the biggest RichnerLIVE Events has ever held. We congratulate all the winners and runner-ups on their amazing accomplishments!
“It is once again a privilege for our companies to host this great event,” Stuart Richner, publisher of the Long Island Herald and CEO of Richner Communications, said. “Remember tonight is not just about celebration, it’s about creating unforgettable moments and sharing in the joy of success.”
“The people in this room are the economic engines of our communities,” he said. “As a second generation business owner myself, I know how challenging leading a business can be. But leading a
business can also be incredibly rewarding, and the rewards certainly outweigh the challenges.”
“The Long Island Choice Awards celebrates Long Island businesses for their resilience, strength, innovation, excellence and an unwavering dedication to their communities,” David Lyons, interim president and COO of PSEG Long Island, said. “Without your hard work, we would not have the thriving downtown districts in so many of the local Long Island neighborhoods that we call home.”
Lyons noted PSEG’s business customer advocate program and the team that assists businesses in navigating their programs and services.
“They work tirelessly to support small businesses that fuel our local economy, offering personalized guidance and solutions,” he said. The team offers multiple services, including free energy assessments that help businesses save on costs.
“We’ve been around for 55 years, since the 1970s,” Matthew Kahn, president of Friends of Bridge, Inc., said.
“We’re a local not-for-profit which really helps our community. We’re very well respected by the community and we’re very proud to have won this award tonight.” The Valley Streambased outpatient alcohol and drug treatment agency won the award for best addiction rehabilitation center.
“I feel humbled to be able to even do what I do, to help people heel,” Kimberly Zedalis with Integrative Health and Wellness, Inc. in Farmingdale, said. Zedalis accepted the award for best functional medicine. “This has just
been an incredible journey that I’ve been on in my life and I’m elated to win.”
Several organizations and businesses won multiple awards. Molloy University took home three, including best adult education/continuing education programs, best university and best university president.
“Like anytime our university gets the accolades it deserves, I’m proud of our accomplishments,” James Lentini, university president, said.
To view more pictures please visit RichnerLive.com/lichoice. To see a complete list of the 2025 Long Island Choice winners visit LiHerald.com/ long-island-choice-awards.
By Herald Staff
NASSAU COUNTY EXECUTIVE presents
Friday, June 13, 7:00pm
National BBQ Festival
JD Leonard, Decades of Country
Saturday, June 14, 7:00pm
National BBQ Festival
Warren G and DJ Belal
Sunday, June 15, 10:00am-4:00pm
National BBQ Festival
Family Entertainment including:
Professional Wrestling with Champonship Entertainment Productions and Rolie Polie Guacamole
Monday, June 16, 5:00pm
Senior Afternoon Concert: Manhattan Skyline & Sons of Pitches
Thursday, June 19, 7:00pm
Juneteenth Celebration
Chrisette Michele and Earth Wind & Fire Tribute by D’votion
Saturday, June 21, 7:00pm
Disco Unlimited
Monday, June 23, 7:00pm
The Mavericks
Thursday, June 26, 7:00pm
Orleans and Atlantic Rhythm Section
Friday, June 27, 7:00pm
Million Dollar Reunion
featuring stars of Broadway’s Million Dollar Quartet
Saturday, June 28, 7:00pm
Freestyle Meets Salsa
featuring: TKA/K7, Tito Puente Jr., Joey Cruz, La Sonora 495, Forever Freestyle Band
Thursday, July 3, 5:30pm
(Rain date Saturday, July 5)
TD Bank Celebrate America
Fireworks & Show: Face to Face LI, Chicken Head, and Glenn Strange Band
Thursday, July 10, 7:00pm So Good – Neil Diamond Tribute
Saturday, July 12, 7:00pm Desert Highway Tribute Eagles Tribute
Sunday, July 13, 4:00pm Family Day on the Lake featuring Beauty and the Beat and wide-ranging entertainment for children and families
Thursday, July 17, 7:00pm Doo Wop Show
featuring: Kid Kyle, The Capris, Vito Picone and the Elegants
Friday, July 18, 6:30pm
Tribute to Harry Chapin with Corey Reiman & The Dilemma Band
Saturday, July 19, 7:00pm Russell Dickerson
Monday, July 21, 5:00pm
Senior Afternoon Concert: Vinny Medugno & The Chiclettes
Friday, July 25, 7:00pm Dean Karahalis & the Concert Pops of L.I.
Saturday, July 26, 7:00pm
Neil Berg’s 100 Years of Broadway
Thursday, July 31, 7:00pm
Christopher Macchio & The Nassau Pops: Opera and The Classics
Friday, August 1, 7:00pm Half Step - Grateful Dead Tribute
Saturday, August 2, 6:45pm Salute to Veterans
American Bombshells & Streetfighter - Rolling Stones Tribute
Sunday, August 3, 6:00pm The 42nd Infantry Division Band, NY Army National Guard
Thursday, August 7, 7:00pm
Lady Supreme A Diana Ross Experience
Friday, August 8, 7:00pm
The Boss Project - The Premier Bruce Springsteen Tribute Band
Thursday, August 14, 7:00pm The Castellows
Friday, August 15, 7:00pm
Dancing Dream - ABBA Tribute
Saturday, August 16, 7:00pm Midtown Men - Original Cast of Jersey Boys
Monday, August 18, 5:00pm
Senior Afternoon Concert: Stan Zizka & The Del Satins
Thursday, August 21, 7:00pm Let’s Sing Taylor Taylor Swift Experience
Friday, August 22, 7:00pm Yachtley Crew 70s and 80s Soft Rock
Friday, August 29, 7:00pm
Misty Mountain, Led Zeppelin Tribute and Who’s Next, The Who Tribute
Saturday, August 30, 7:00pm Elvis Crespo
Sunday, September 14, 6:00pm Ashley McBryde
Friday, September 19, 7:00pm Parti-Gras with Bret Michaels and a Renowned Former Lead Guitarist –TBA
Friday, September 26, 8:00pm Steve Aoki with DJ Theo and Untamed
FREE ADMISSION | Bring Blankets or Chairs | Parking Field #6
Weather permitting, call 516-572-0200 for up-to-date information.
Five different newspapers under the Herald Community Media banner took home five awards at the annual Press Club of Long Island at the Fox Hollow Country Club.
The five-part series on the hidden dangers of noise and light captured first place in the Narrative Environment category. The writers were former Herald reporter Nicole Formisano, and current staffers editor Will Sheeline and reporter Angelina Zingariello.
The judges said: “Compelling, wellwritten, well-researched series covering noise, air, and light pollution. Not only scientific, their words also touch the human soul.”
Formisano also took home a second place award in the Narrative Obituaries category. Her piece in the Lynbrook/East Rockaway Herald illustrated how a grief support group was dealing with their own sorrow after losing the group’s leader Angela Mendola.
In the same category, editor Roksana Amid received a third place award for the remembrance of Bob Canavan for the Glen Cove Herald.
Amid was also part of the team that included Sheeline and another former Herald staffer Laura Lane that took third place in the Narrative Government & Politics category for “Souzzi’s win: Examining the voting dynamics.”
Senior reporter Mohammad Rafiq also collected a third place award in the Narrative Non-local News/Feature category for his story “Journalist unearths
and honors Civil War Ancestor.”
“At Herald Community Media, we strive every day to deliver impactful, community-focused journalism — and earning five Press Club of Long Island awards is a proud testament to our team’s dedication and the trust our readers place in us,” Stuart Richner, president and CEO of Richner Communications Inc., said about the June 5 recognition. The Press Club of Long Island is open to professional and student members of the Society of Professional Journalists. To learn more, visit PCLI.org.
–Jeffrey Bessen
By Karen Bloom
When it comes to Father’s Day, some dads want ties, others want tools — but for many, what really gets their hearts (and taste buds) fired up is a perfect day at the grill. Forget the recliner — Dad’s real throne is next to the barbecue, tongs in hand, flame sizzling, and the unmistakable aroma of grilled steak in the air. Whether Dad’s the grill master or you’re stepping up to serve him, there’s no better way to celebrate than with a steakhouse-quality meal made right in your own backyard. It’s simple, satisfying, and a fun way to show appreciation — with flavor.
Savor the steakhouse staples
Steak lovers know the stars of the grill — ribeye, strip, porterhouse, and tenderloin. These cuts are popular for a reason: bold beefy flavor, juicy texture, and just the right bite. But no matter the cut, the real secret to a great steak lies in the marbling — those small white flecks of fat throughout the meat. That’s where the flavor lives. More marbling means more mouthwatering bites.
Grill like a pro
Want to serve a steak that earns a standing ovation? Follow these tried-and-true grilling tips. Heat it up: Make sure your grill is hot before placing the meat down. A sizzle on contact means you’re locking in all those savory juices. Keep it simple: With a high-quality steak, you don’t need a long marinade — just a touch of salt and pepper lets the natural flavors shine. Tongs only, please: Never use a fork to flip steaks. It pierces the meat and lets the juices escape. Stick with tongs or a spatula.
Timing is everything: For 1-inch thick steaks, grill over medium heat for 5–6 minutes per side for a perfect medium-rare (145°F).
Let it rest: After grilling, give steaks a few minutes to rest before slicing. That helps keep all the tasty juices right where they belong — inside the steak.
Bring on his inner chef
Want to impress Dad with professional-looking grill marks? Here’s a chef’s trick: Place the steak at a 45-degree angle to the grates. After 3–4 minutes, rotate it 90 degrees to create those signature diamond marks. Flip and repeat for a restaurant-
style presentation.
This Father’s Day, skip the crowded restaurants and let the grill be the center of the celebration. Whether you’re flipping the steaks or just cheering Dad on from the sidelines, it’s a surefire way to make the day deliciously unforgettable.
“Cowboy” Steak with Steamed Guinness French Onion Beans
• 4 18-ounce bone-in “cowboy” ribeye steaks
• 12 ounces (3/4 pound) red skin potatoes, cut in 1-inch chunks
• 1/2 pound green beans, cleaned
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 shallot, peeled and minced
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut in 1/2-inch cubes
• 3/4 cup French onion soup
• 1/2 cup Guinness beer
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup french-fried onions
Preheat grill to medium high. Assemble aluminum foil pouch; add potatoes, beans, garlic, shallot, butter, soup, and beer. Seal pouch and grill to steam.
Season steaks and grill over medium-high heat to medium rare (145°F internal temperature) or desired doneness. Remove steaks and let rest for 4 minutes.
Remove foil pouch, salt and pepper vegetables to taste; top with french-fried onions. Serves 4.
Skewered Shrimp with Black Bean-Lemon Rice
• 24 large raw, headless, peeled shrimp, with tails on (about 1 pound)
• 24 whole green onions, trimmed to 6 inches in length
• 24 cherry tomatoes
• 2 poblano chili peppers, seeded and cut into 24 pieces
• 8 12-inch bamboo skewers, soaked in water
Marinade/Dressing:
• 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 medium garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 3/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
Rice:
• 3 cups hot cooked brown rice
• 15 ounces canned black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 3 teaspoons grated lemon zest
Whisk marinade ingredients in small bowl. Reserve 1/2 cup mixture in separate bowl and set aside. Place shrimp in a resealable plastic bag, pour marinade over shrimp, seal tightly and coat well. Refrigerate 30 minutes, turning frequently. Remove shrimp from marinade (reserving marinade). Place shrimp on skewers, alternating with tomatoes, chilies and onions (folded in half).
Preheat grill on high heat. Brush skewers with reserved marinade and cook 4 to 5 minutes on each side or until shrimp are opaque in center. Place remaining marinade in a small saucepan on the grill to heat slightly. Toss rice with black beans, cilantro and lemon zest.
To serve: Top rice with skewers and spoon remaining marinade over skewers.
Take advantage of the season’s bounty and serve this terrific side dish.
• 1 green bell pepper, quartered
• 1 eggplant, cut crosswise into 1/2 inch-thick rounds
• 1 red bell pepper, quartered
• 1 yellow squash, cut crosswise on the bias into 1/2 inch-thick slices
• 1 zucchini, cut crosswise on the bias into 1/2 inch-thick slices
• 2 tablespoons chopped herbs, such as tarragon, thyme and/or basil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or sherry vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Preheat grill to high heat. Working in batches, arrange veggies on the grill and cook, flipping once, until tender and just beginning to char, 3 to 5 minutes for the zucchini and squash, 6 to 8 minutes for the peppers and eggplant. Spread out to cool slightly on a large baking sheet.
Roughly chop hot veggies into bite-size pieces and toss with herbs, vinegar, salt and pepper on a large platter. Serve warm, at room temperature or cold.
“Don’t stop believin’… Voyage returns with its rockin’ tribute to Journey. The popular band takes everyone back when Journey’s timeless music ruled the airwaves. Hailed by fans and critics alike, the band performs the music with chilling accuracy. Theeir 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 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.
Saturday, June 14, 7 p.m. $40, $35, $30, $25, $20. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
The Happy Together Tour is back and ready with an evening of groovy tunes. The touring sensation that’s crisscrossed the nation delighting audiences for over a decade returns with a show full of chart-topping hits from the ‘60s and ‘70s — an undeniable 61 Billboard Top 40 smashes. The Turtles once again join the tour, also acting as musical hosts for the evening. Along with them are Jay and the Americans, Little Anthony, Gary Pucket, The Vogues and the Cowsills. The Turtles, of course, are best known for their harmony-heavy California pop sound — with such hits as “Elenore,” “She’d Rather Be With Me” and the title of the tour, “Happy Together,” Ron Dante joins the lineup to delight with his own mega-hits, “Sugar Sugar” and “Tracy.”
Saturday, June 14, 8 p.m. Flagstar at Westbury Music Fair, 960 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury. Tickets available at livenation.com.
On Exhibit
Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, the original “Deco at 100” coincides with the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Paris International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts (Exposition internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes) that publicly launched the movement. The direct follow-up to the well-received 2023 exhibit, “Our Gilded Age,” it comparably links the period’s signature innovation in the decorative arts, Art Deco, to the fine arts. On view through June 15.
•Where: 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor
•Time: Ongoing
•Contact: (516) 484-9337 or nassaumuseum.org
‘Elephant & Piggie’s We Are in a Play!’
The beloved musical adventure, ripped from the pages of Mo Willems’ beloved awardwinning, best-selling children’s books, is back on stage at Long Island Children’s Museum, ending this weekend. 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: 10:15 a.m. and noon; also June 14, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
•Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
For many years visitors to Westbury House at Old Westbury Gardens asked what was beyond the first floor corridor. Now go beyond the door and discover “secrets of the service wing,” during a 60-minute guided tour. Be introduced to the intensive labor required to create the lifestyle experienced by the Phipps family and their guests; tour the many rooms that were “behind the scenes” to create the formal dining experiences of early 20th century. Go along the corridors to the butler’s pantry and silver cleaning room then descend the 17 steps to the kitchen, scullery, and wine storage rooms located on the ground floor. Reservations required.
•Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
•Time: Noon-1 p.m. and 3-4 p.m.; also June 15-16, June 18-19
•Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
The Beatles find their way back to the stage — in the form of the Fab Faux. The acclaimed band brings out the best Beatles moments, appearing on the Paramount stage. With a commitment to the accurate reproduction of Beatles’ repertoire, The Fab Faux treat the seminal music with unwavering respect, known for their painstaking recreations of the songs (with emphasis on the later works never performed live by the Beatles). The musical virtuosity of The Fab Faux — in actuality five New York City-based musicians —upends the concept of a Beatles tribute band. Far beyond being extended cover sets, their shows are an inspired rediscovery of The Beatles’ musical magic. In this concert, you’ll hear “A Hard Day’s Night” and “Abbey Road” in their entireties. The Fab Faux tackles the group’s most demanding material onstage in a way that has to be experienced to be believed. In addition to their note-for-note accuracy, the band is famous for blurring the lines slightly and injecting their own musical personalities into the performances. Imagine hearing complex material like “Strawberry Fields Forever” or “I Am the Walrus” performed in complete part-perfect renditions; or such harmony-driven songs as “Because,” “Nowhere Man” and “Paperback Writer,” reproduced with extra vocalists to achieve a double-tracked effect. That’s The Fab Faux experience.
$125, $110, $89.50, $79.50, $69.50, $49.50.
BBQ Festival
The National BBQ Festival touches down in Nassau County for the first time Father’s Day Weekend. It’s slated to be packed with mouthwatering eats, live entertainment and family-friendly fun, through June 15.
•Where: Eisenhower Park, 1899 Hempstead Tpke.
•Time: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
•Contact: NationalBBQFest.com
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
Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for a special storybook adventure in celebration of Juneteenth. Stroll the gardens and share the story of Juneteenth with Kim Taylor’s “A Flag for Juneteenth.” Also take part in a
quilting-inspired craft based on the story. For ages 3-5. Storybook Strolls start at the Beech Tree (next to Westbury House), and end at the Thatched Cottage.
•Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
•Time: 4:30-5:30 p.m.
•Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
Threads of Freedom: Juneteenth and the legacy of Black quilting
Award-winning quilters Diane Larrier Collier and Marilyn Hamilton Jackson visit Old Westbury Gardens to discuss Juneteenth, Underground Railroad quilts and the enduring cultural tradition of Black quilting. Most people think the majority of quilts in Black communities are folksy or improvisational, and that’s just not true; they’re actually very diverse. The lecture at the Barn at Orchard Hill highlights several of their Juneteenth quilts, and a version of the Underground Railroad quilts. Free with admission, but pre-registration required.
•Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
•Time: 6-7 p.m.
•Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
food trucks, and local vendors. The event takes place on Railroad Avenue outside Mulcahy’s and in the parking lot behind The Irish Poet.
•Where: Railroad Avenue, Wantagh (outside Mulcahy’s)
•Time: Thursdays at 5 p.m.; also July 3, 17, 31 and Aug. 14 and 28
•Contact: wantaghchamber.com for details
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
•Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington
• Time: 8 p.m.
•Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
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
•Time: Thursdays, noon-4 p.m.
•Contact: mahjonggCBT@yahoo. com or (516) 785-2445
Each week in this engaging workshop, participants are introduced to hands-on materials, artmaking, and inspiration from artists and techniques. Young kids, ages 2-5, build critical thinking skills, expand vocabulary, and support imaginations as they play, create and explore. This week families Learn about portraits while making abstract self-portraits and frames! $4 with museum admission.
•Where: Museum Row, Garden City
•Time: 11:30 a.m.-noon
•Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800
The Wantagh Chamber of Commerce presents Thursday Night Live, a free summer block party series featuring live music,
Kiwanis Bicycle Challenge Ride in support of others. The Nassau Bicycle Challenge (formerly Nassau to Suffolk Bicycle Challenge) supports the work of the Kiwanis Club of North Shore Foundation. It supports charities such as Kiwanis Pediatric Trauma Center, Pediatric Lyme Disease Foundation, Kamp Kiwanis, NOSH, Boys and Girls Club and charities aligned with those of Kiwanis International “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 walkins 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
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.
A Levittown man was arrested following a traffic stop that led to a foot chase and injuries to two police officers, Nassau County police said.
The incident happened around 10:38 p.m. on Thursday, June 5, in the parking lot of 162 Gardiners Ave. Officers stopped a 2014 white Maserati for a license plate violation. Police said the front-seat passenger exited the vehicle and attempted to walk away.
According to detectives, the man, identified as Dashawn Thompkins, 47, of Stokes Avenue in Levittown, appeared visibly nervous and allegedly gave officers a false name and date of birth. Police later determined Thompkins was in violation of two active orders of protection—one from the
female driver and another from the male passenger.
Police said Thompkins allegedly fled on foot, and during the pursuit, he became combative. Two officers were injured while taking him into custody. One officer sustained multiple rib fractures and a fractured wrist. The second officer suffered minor injuries. Both were treated at a local hospital.
Thompkins is charged with two counts of assault, two counts of criminal contempt, resisting arrest, obstructing governmental administration, and false personation. He was scheduled to be arraigned June 6 at First District Court in Hempstead.
— Charles Shaw
Nassau County police broke up a crowd of about 300 teenagers at Jones Beach State Park on June 5 during an unofficial Senior Cut Day gathering, according to news reports.
A crowd of about 300 people was dispersed at Jones Beach State Park in Wantagh on June 5 following multiple fights during an unofficial Senior Cut Day gathering, according to Nassau County police.
New York State Park Police requested assistance around 6:24 p.m., prompting Nassau officers to deploy units including Emergency Services, Special Operations, and Aviation. Four people sustained minor injuries but declined further medical attention.
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 STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF NASSAU INDEX NO.: 608769/2024
Assigned to Hon. Randy Sue Marber, J.S.C. MADELINE L. MORELLO and LAURA J. FLANNERY, Individually and as CoTrustees of the LUCY M. MORELLO TRUST and ANTHONY R. MORELLO TRUST, Plaintiff, - againstANTHONY R. MORELLO JR., Individually and as Co-Trustee of the LUCY M. MORELLO TRUST and ANTHONY R. MORELLO TRUST Defendant. TO ALL CREDITORS NOT PARTIES TO THE ABOVE-ENTITLED ACTION WHO HAVE LIENS ON THE UNDIVIDED SHARES OR INTEREST OF ANY PARTY: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that each and every person whether a party or not a party to the above-entitled action who, at the date of the Order appointed the undersigned referee, April 10, 2025, had a lien upon any undivided shares or interest of a party in the property hereinafter described, is hereby required to appear before the undersigned at 1050 Franklin Ave., Suite 304, Garden City, NY 11530, on or before July 11, 2025 to provide such lien and the true amount due by reason thereof.
The property herein is described in the complaint as follows: 203 Central Avenue, Bethpage, New York 11714.
Dated June 5, 2025
George Peter Esernio, Esq.
Publication Dates: 6/12,6/19,6/26 7/3/2025 154043
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, AJAX MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2023-B, MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES, SERIES 2023-B, BY U.S. BANK TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE, Plaintiff, vs. TIMOTHY C. MOONEY, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on May 5, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on July 15, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 136 Sycamore Avenue, Bethpage, NY 11714. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Bethpage, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 46, Block 84 and Lot 12. Approximate amount of judgment is $572,095.81 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #606336/2022. Cherice Patrice Vanderhall, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 211341-1 154039
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU MID-ISLAND MORTGAGE CORP. Plaintiff, Against
KERYN L. HING AVERY A/K/A KERYN L. HINGAVERY A/K/A KERYN
HING AVERY A/K/A
KERYN HING A/K/A
KERYN AVERY A/K/A
KERYN HING-AVERY; GREGORY AVERY A/K/A GREGORY L. AVERY; et al Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 05/02/2024, 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 7/16/2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 15 Hamlet Road, Levittown, New York 11756, and described as follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Levittown, near Hicksville, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.
Section 46 Block 387 Lot 39
The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $345,000.93 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 618413/2022 If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine. Jonathan Christian Juliano, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573
Dated: 5/1/2025 File Number: 22-301437 CA 154037
During the response, police said 18-year-old Kyle Thomas of Valley Stream lifted his shirt and revealed what appeared to be a firearm in his waistband. He was arrested without incident, and police later determined the weapon was an imitation firearm. Thomas was charged with menacing and disorderly conduct. He was issued an appearance ticket returnable June 27 at First District Court in Hempstead.
— Charles Shaw
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Q. I’m trying to figure out what to do about the old construction on my house that I am being told needs permits before I can finish selling. First, I understand that I may have to pay a penalty, and second, I’m wondering why my buyer says they will take over and get permits after we close but their attorney says it’s a lot more complicated because we didn’t get a flood repair permit after Hurricane Sandy. What can you tell me about this? It seems much more complicated than it needs to be.
A. This is a typical case of “you snooze, you lose.” I regularly hear from people who tell me that their friends, contractors, even their attorneys, in some cases, give them “off the record” advice not to make waves, not to do anything. But the issues and requirements don’t just go away, and design professionals are held back from what you really wanted them to do, like an addition or a home makeover, many years later.
Waiting and ignoring the requirements has put you in a much more difficult situation. Since Sandy, the Federal Emergency Management Agency has required that people who received funding, whether directly from the federal agency or through public funds like New York Rising, had to confirm that the funds were put toward the repairs they were meant for. It’s just like providing your car insurance company the receipts and/or an inspection to confirm that the money they gave you for repairs was spent on the car, and not on some fraudulent luxury expense.
In 2013, your municipality required a repair permit, and instead of repeatedly contacting you, they opted to say that they notified you (once or twice), and now it’s your problem that you didn’t respond. The friction this created has lasted long after the memory of the flood turmoil has diminished. People feel ambushed, but arguing or passing on the requirement doesn’t make it go away.
In fact, one of the requirements is a “proof of loss” letter issued to the property owner, preferably the person who owned the property at the time of the flood. Switching to the next owner just complicates the process. Even though repair permits do not have a permit fee, most people made improvements during repairs, and your municipality recently doubled the fees for property improvements. So putting off the repair is now going to cost even more, which your buyer’s attorney might also realize while protecting the buyer.
When it comes to building department fees, one of the biggest municipalities, whose fees were more lenient, just raised them substantially. A couple who applied for permits in 2019, later hampered by the pandemic, saw their projected fees go from $2,000 to $4,600 this past month. Yes, it really did take that long, due to the pandemic and the stages of approval they had to go through, and they weren’t snoozing. Listen to the buyer’s attorney and follow through. Good luck!
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The unfortunate closure of The Safe Center LI, a private nonprofit agency that served victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, has understandably raised concern across our community and in my office. As soon as I learned that the Safe Center was having financial problems, I launched an investigation to determine whether Nassau County taxpayer dollars were being misused and to ensure that services for victims of domestic and sexual violence would continue to be available. We found that there was no abuse of funds, and that the county has stepped up as a leader— ensuring that victims continue to receive uninterrupted care, protection, and support. County Executive Bruce Blakeman and his administration acted swiftly and decisively to preserve access to critical services and mobilize partnerships with state agencies and local nonprofits. His leadership has been instrumental in guiding our response and protecting our most vulnerable residents.
Although The Safe Center LI was not a county-run agency, the county has long supported its mission. As soon as financial instability became clear, County officials worked in close coordination with the state Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, the state Coalition Against Domestic Violence, and other trusted partners to ensure that no services lapsed.
24/7 crisis support remains available
Victims can still access confidential help:
■ Call: (516) 542-0404
■ Text: (844) 997-2121
Sfully staffed and responsive.
Emergency housing and shelter
When The Safe Center’s residential facility closed, the county’s Department of Social Services immediately stepped in—relocating residents and continuing emergency housing operations through a strong alliance with the New York State Coalition Against Domestic Violence. This rapid response ensured no disruption in shelter services for victims and their children.
ervices for children impacted by abuse remain active and coordinated.
■ Chat: opdv.ny.gov/survivors-victims
In-person assistance and walk-In services
Victims may also:
■ Visit any Nassau County Police Department precinct
■ Go to the Department of Social Services at 60 Charles Lindbergh Blvd., Uniondale
■ Call the Nassau County Crime Victim Advocate at (516) 571-1598
These county-based services remain
NSupport for child victims
Services for children impacted by abuse remain active and coordinated. As before, multidisciplinary teams, including law enforcement and legal professionals, continue to meet with young victims in child-friendly settings to reduce emotional trauma.
Legal services remain available
Attorneys who previously worked for The Safe Center have transitioned to Legal Services of Long Island, where they continue to support victims, including ongoing and new cases. This transition was managed seamlessly to avoid disruption for survivors in need of legal protection.
assau County Executive Bruce Blakeman recently stated that “having the President of the United States as a friend of Nassau County is a very good thing.”
SETH I. KOSLOW
If that’s true, then where’s the proof? The biggest pocketbook issue facing Nassau residents right now is the same one that’s hit us hard for nearly a decade — the $10,000 cap on state and local tax (SALT) deductions signed into law by Donald Trump in 2017. This cap has effectively doubletaxed middleclass families across Long Island and crushed homeowners already paying the highest property taxes in America.
Now, in Trump’s second term, Congress is gearing up to revisit SALT — and Nassau’s representatives, including Tom Suozzi and Laura Gillen, are fighting to restore it. Even some Republican members of Congress have spoken out and are demanding relief. But our county executive? Not a word.
This is exactly the kind of moment Blakeman claims his Trump relationship is good for. But when it comes time to actually stand up for taxpayers, he is absent.
BSALT is just the beginning. Blakeman has also said nothing about the devastating impact Trump’s proposed budget would have on Long Islanders — especially working families, children and seniors. That includes deep cuts to Medicaid, which supports services for students with disabilities in our schools and healthcare access for more than 680,000 Long Islanders. He’s said nothing about the $300 billion in potential cuts to SNAP, which helps feed 150,000 Long Islanders. If passed, these cuts would fund a tax break for the ultra-wealthy on the backs of the families who can least afford it. Blakeman’s silence isn’t strategic — it’s telling. Time and again, he’s been loud when it helps him politically and quiet when it comes to delivering real results.
Time for Leadership, not politics
In times of crisis, the community needs steady leadership—not political gamesmanship. It is disappointing—and frankly, shameful—that some individuals have attempted to exploit this unfortunate situation for political gain. I am proud to report that Blakeman, the County Legislature, and the entire county team have kept the focus exactly where it belongs: on victims and their families.
Accountability and moving forward
The Safe Center’s closure was the result of financial decisions made independently by its leadership. Although it was a valued service provider, it was a nonprofit — not operated, managed, or financially overseen by the county. While the county and state fulfilled all financial commitments under contract, the agency’s financial model proved unsustainable. My office worked closely with The Safe Center to wind down operations responsibly and transparently.
A strong future built on partnership
I will continue to be the independent protector of all taxpayers, and we will continue to lead with compassion, integrity, and action—because protecting victims is not about politics. It’s about doing what’s right.
Elaine Phillips is the Nassau County Comptroller.
— it’s a choice
ther — and by keeping assessed values frozen, he’s made the system more unfair and indefensible than ever. Yet, at his recent State of the County address, he made the puzzling statement that he “fixed” the problem.
eing county executive isn’t about who you know. It’s about who you fight for.
It may be fixed if you’re a politically connected tax grievance firm that benefits from the return of mass settlements, but it sure isn’t if you’re a homeowner whose property tax bill is soaring.
Then, take his selfdeclared commitment to women’s safety. While he held press conferences and made promises, The Safe Center — Nassau’s only 24/7 resource for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault — was forced to shut down on his watch. No plan. No public urgency. Just silence.
had little to say as $9 billion in growth he promised evaporated.
He talks tough on public safety, but when it came time to fund first responders in districts represented by Democratic legislators, he wouldn’t even pick up the phone to negotiate an agreement — until we, as a caucus, forced him to do the right thing.
While preaching fiscal discipline, he’s earmarked $10 million in federal pandemic money for 125th anniversary parties that, by and large, didn’t materialize and handed out $20 million in outside legal contracts — many to politically connected firms — and pushed an unlawful, unnecessary and dangerous armed militia program with no public support.
Being county executive isn’t about who you know. It’s about who you fight for.
While running for office in 2021, Blakeman promised to cut our taxes and fix Nassau’s assessment system. As county executive, he has achieved nei-
The same is true of his promises of economic development. He loudly trumpeted a proposed Las Vegas Sands casino resort at the Nassau Hub and a multi-billion dollar NYU Langone teaching hospital on the campus of Nassau Community College, but with the hospital plan now dead and the casino on life support at best, Blakeman has
If Blakeman wants to brag about his friendship with the president, it’s time he used that relationship to actually help Nassau’s taxpayers — not just himself.
Because when you have the platform, the power and the connections, silence on these issues isn’t just disappointing. It’s disqualifying.
Seth I. Koslow represents Nassau County’s 5th Legislative District.
My brother Kevin recently passed away. Death is a reality each family must confront. There’s no denying death’s heartbreaking impact on family and friends. But it’s important we take the opportunity to celebrate the life of the family member and friend we lost. My experiences with death growing up were as a Catholic altar boy assisting at funeral masses. The priest wore black vestments. The music and hymns were beyond somber. “Dies Irae,” an essential prayer at the Requiem Mass, was a Latin term depicting Judgment Day as the “Day of Wrath.” From my recollection, the funeral service was far from uplifting.
All that would change during the reforms emanating from the Vatican Council of the early and mid-1960’s, symbolized by the Requiem Mass, now called a “Celebration of Life,” were white priests’ vestments being substituted for black and “Dies Irae” being discarded.
Kevin, whose death followed almost
itwo years of suffering from a debilitating, rare form of blood cancer, did have his life celebrated by family and friends. Kevin was my younger brother but, as he always reminded me, a better athlete. A mediocre student in high school, he emerged at St. John’s University, graduating with honors and going on to enjoy an extremely successful career working for an industrial parts company with national and international operations, allowing Kevin to comfortably retire at a much younger age than I did.
Kevin was similar to our father ... never resentful or jealous of anyone.
Most important, Kevin was dedicated to his family — his wife JoAnne with whom he celebrated a 50th wedding anniversary last summer; his children Tara and Kevin; and his grandchildren K.J., Sienna and Camryn. Kevin was also a Mets fan who not only had season tickets but also would attend Mets spring training games at Port St. Lucie, Florida.
Kevin was similar to our father being intensely loyal and never resentful or jealous of anyone. So long as his family was doing well and was healthy, that was more than enough for him. Also emulating our father, Kevin never once complained or bemoaned his fate during more than 18 months of devastating ill-
ness, which he knew was bound to be terminal. He would speak to me matterof-factly: “I might not make it this time, but you never know,” before telling me “K.J. went 4-4 the other night and threw out a guy trying to steal” or “Sienna is really getting good at soccer.” Our conversations always ended upbeat. Kevin was particularly thankful to our sister Barbara, a retired nurse, who was supporting and advocating for him continually throughout his illness.
In the last conversation I had with Kevin just six days before he died, he reminded me of a Mets dinner we attended in 2016 when Mets first baseman Lucas Duda and Islanders great Bobby Nystrom were at our table. Days later, Kevin was brought from Plainview Hospital, where he had received such outstanding care, to his home in Seaford, where he passed away peacefully.
Kevin’s wake at Schmitt Funeral Home was indeed a celebration. Family members, including cousins we hadn’t seen in a while, were there. So too were local officials, including County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Chairman Joe Cairo and congressmen Nick LaLota and Tom Suozzi, labor leader Anthony Simon and All-American Notre Dame
quarterback Terry Hanratty. Though Kevin was not a member of either of their parishes, Monsignor Steve Camp from St. Patrick in Huntington and Fr. Joe Fitzgerald from St. William in Seaford came by to offer their uplifting celebratory condolences. Then there were the neighbors and people he worked with over the years sharing their memories of Kevin’s thoughtfulness and loyalty. Most moving was the outstanding, heartfelt speech given by his son Kevin.
The Celebration of Life Mass at Maria Regina Church the next morning was indeed a fitting finale to Kevin’s life, as were the patriotic musical renditions by the Nassau Police Pipe Band before and after the Mass and the dignified carrying of his flag-draped coffin by members of the NYPD Ceremonial Unit, which had been formed by our father more than a half-century ago. The final sendoff was a moving Honor Guard ceremony, which included the playing of taps by the 11th New York Regiment United States VolunteersAmerica at St. Charles Cemetery.
In true Irish tradition, our celebration of Kevin’s life continued through the afternoon at Paddy’s Loft Pub! Kevin R.I.P.
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
f you are familiar with the musical “Fiddler on the Roof,” you know the song “If I Were A Rich Man.?”
In that song ,Tevye, the patriarch of the family, dreams of all of the trappings that come with being rich . There is no doubt that there are many benefits to being affluent and most rich people can conquer many of life’s challenges. In my thinking, there is one exception, where the rich can’t always buy their way and that’s in the field of politics. There are so many examples of cases where the very rich try their luck in the political world and get burned by the experience. The most obvious is the current case of Elon Musk, said to be the wealthiest person in the world. Musk made his first foray into the political minefield when he decided to spend tons of personal wealth to help re-elect President Trump.
The real numbers are elusive but it is estimated that he invested at least
T$250 million in the 2024 national election. Most of the funds went to the Trump campaign but a sizeable amount went to various races around the country, including a judicial contest in Wisconsin. The race for the top court post didn’t work out so well as Musk’s candidate took a beating in a race where the incumbent used the Musk name as a successful weapon.
Undeterred by his Wisconsin loss, Musk plunged into the Washington battlefield by becoming the head of the Department of Governmental Efficiency (D.O.G.E.) To a businessman used to having his way all the time, taking a government position aimed at creating efficiencies in government sounded like a dream job. Being able to cut waste and fraud sounds like becoming a Superman in the nation’s capitol.
dealerships ablaze is enough to give any rich man a super migraine headache. Having many of his visions dashed by the GOP Congress, Musk is now back in Texas.
here are countless others who had unlimited funds and backers who flamed out.
Another example of a rich man getting burned in the political world is Michael Bloomberg. Bloomberg’s political career started out with great long-term promise. Having brilliantly run his own company, he chose to run for the job of Mayor of New York City. The voters were anxious to have a Bloomberg take over the city and he succeeded in having three effective terms in office. Buoyed by his highly acclaimed tenure as mayor, Bloomberg decided to dip his toe into national waters and run for president.
to participate in a national candidates debate. Unprepared for such an event, he was ambushed on national television by Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA). In a short 24 hours, his candidacy ended.
There are countless others who had unlimited funds and backers who flamed out when they pushed their fame and fortune a little too hard. Kelly Loeffler, who now chairs the Trump S.B.A., was an interim U.S. Senator for two years. Her wealthy family backed in her run for a six-year term, but Democrat Jon Ossoff upset her efforts. David Purdue, another wealthy Georgia resident who had strong corporate credentials, lost his re-election run to Democrat Rev. Raphael Warnock.
A short time ago Musk announced he was returning to the private sector to take care of his many businesses. By all counts, Musk has lost at least $100 billion in wealth, including a 51 percent loss in the value of the Tesla Company. That was bad enough, but to have people burning Tesla cars and setting Tesla
With a budget of at least $1 billion, the Bloomberg presidential effort got off to a brilliant start. He assembled great political minds on his staff and created a model political campaign. From personal observations, his operation was smooth, well-planned and highly professional. Many prominent business figures offered their backing and all was well until the mayor chose
There are dozens more stories of politicians whose money couldn’t buy short or long-term political happiness. And there are quite a few successful rich people serving at all levels of government. But there is a caveat for all rich men and women. If you think money alone will get you to the top in politics you are deluding yourself.
Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. Comments about this column? jkremer@ liherald.com.
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uburban America, and Long Island, has always been defined by its picket white fences, apple pie, and of course emeraldgreen lawns, perfectly mowed in house after house. But this idyllic dream hides a growing ecological nightmare; these lawns are an environmentally disastrous drain on Long Island’s water supply, habitat and wildlife, and even the pocketbooks of regular homeowners.
This is why we need to begin embracing sustainable landscaping, before it’s too late.
At its core, sustainable landscaping revolves around harmonizing green spaces with native flora, a practice that inherently supports local wildlife. By opting for plants naturally adapted to the region’s climate and soil, homeowners create havens for birds and other animals. These native species not only provide crucial habitats but also bolster biodiversity, essential for maintaining resilient ecosystems in an ever-changing world.
Long Island boasts a wide variety of beautiful native grasses, such as Broomsedge and Appalachian sedge or tufted hair grass. Despite this, the most popular grass species on Long Island lawns are tall fescue (from Europe), perennial ryegrass (from Eurasia and North Africa) and Kentucky bluegrass (from Eurasia and North Africa).
Because these species are not native to Long Island and most lawns use only a single grass species, this leaves what are effectively ecological dead zones; the beautiful green lawn reduces biodiversity, which means fewer bugs and birds visit to help pollinate nearby plants and flowers, which chokes out life and nutrition from the soil and eventually, from Long Island itself.
Insects like bees, butterflies and beetles, critical pollinators and prey for larger species, struggle to survive in
these sterile grass monocultures that offer little food or shelter. Without these insects, birds lose a key food source, especially during nesting season. A mother chickadee, for example, needs thousands of caterpillars to raise a brood. But caterpillars only thrive on native plants. When yards are dominated by turfgrass and exotic ornamentals, the local food web begins to collapse.
This habitat loss ripples up the food chain. Foxes, squirrels, chipmunks, and deer rely on complex plant life for food, cover, and breeding grounds. Traditional lawns fragment the landscape, replacing vital thickets and understory with flat expanses that support little biodiversity. Even suburban predators, such as owls and hawks, struggle when the small mammals they hunt become scarce.
In addition to destroying our environment, this process also weakens the initial goal of having a beautiful lawn by killing the nutrients in the soil, making it harder for the transplanted grass to grow, demanding more water from our aquifers, which are already nearly wrung dry.
Water scarcity concerns are not foreign to Long Island, making sustainable landscaping a pragmatic choice. By selecting drought-resistant plants and employing water-efficient irrigation methods, such as drip systems and rainwater harvesting, residents significantly reduce their reliance on municipal water supplies. This not only conserves a precious resource but also mitigates runoff pollution, ensuring cleaner waterways and healthier aquatic ecosystems.
Traditional lawn care often involves heavy use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which can adversely impact soil health and pose risks to human health and wildlife. Since Long Island is after all, an island, we also have to worry about this from the lens of its impact on our Sound. Fertilizer runoff is high in nitrogen, and constant runoff has fueled
To the Editor:
As a member of the in Nassau and Suffolk counties to apply for the Federal Emergency Management Agency Staffing For Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant program.
Thank you for serving on the front lines and protecting our communities from fires, emergencies, and natural disasters. As a representative in Congress, I’m committed to supporting our first responders by maximizing the federal resources we bring back from Washington to Long Island to help you do your jobs safely and effectively.
The program aims to help fire departments, including volunteer departments, recruit, retain, and increase the number of trained firefighters available in their community.
My team and I are eager to assist you, and I would be glad to
the Sound’s rising temperature and increasing number of algal blooms in the past two decades.
In contrast, sustainable practices emphasize natural soil amendments like compost and organic matter, fostering nutrient-rich soils that support vigorous plant growth without synthetic inputs. Integrated Pest Management techniques further minimize pesticide use by leveraging natural predators and cultural practices, ensuring pest control without compromising environmental integrity.
The benefits of sustainable landscaping extend beyond aesthetics. Dense, healthy lawns act as effective filters, trapping dust, pollutants, and carbon dioxide while releasing oxygen—a vital contribution to improving local air quality. Moreover, practices such as composting and mulching enrich soil structure, promoting microbial activity and enhancing its ability to sequester carbon—a crucial strategy in combating climate change.
Individually, each sustainable landscape may seem modest in scale, but collectively, they form a formidable force for environmental change across Long Island. As more residents adopt these practices, the cumulative effect reverberates through neighborhoods, parks, and public spaces, fostering a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and resilience.
Transitioning to sustainable landscaping begins with understanding local soil and climate conditions, selecting appropriate native plants, and adopting waterefficient irrigation practices. Regular soil testing and thoughtful plant selection tailored to Long Island’s unique ecosystem are pivotal in creating thriving, low-maintenance landscapes.
We only have one island. Together, we can preserve Long Island as an Edenic paradise where our families can live, grow and play safely and healthily for decades.
Gov. Kathy Hochul is making a major push to not only build new nuclear plants in New York State, but also to make New York “the center of a nuclear revival in the u.S.,” Mark Dunlea, chair of the Green Education and Legal Fund and a leader on environmental issues, said in a recent email calling for support to “stop Hochul’s nuclear push.” Dunlea, author of the book “Putting Out the Planetary Fire,” was cofounder of both the New York Public Interest Research Group and national PIRG. He said Hochul “buys the argument that nuclear is carbon-free, avoiding looking at the life cycle of nuclear and its carbon footprint,” which includes, he noted, significant emissions of carbon in uranium mining, milling, enrichment, fuel fabrication and at other points.
So far, Dunlea said, Hochul has been focusing on upstate for new nuclear
development rather than, “at the moment,” Long Island. For decades, a battle raged that stopped the plan of the Long Island Lighting Company to build seven to 11 nuclear power plants here. If there is again a plan for placement of nuclear power plants on Long Island, Dunlea said, “hopefully, Long Islanders would stand up and beat it back.” Hochul has also become involved in promoting nuclear power nationally.
The Clean Air Task Force, based in Queens, which advocates nuclear power, issued a press release in February stating: “The National Association of State Energy officials announced a multi-state initiative to accelerate advanced nuclear energy projects” that was “first previewed by Gov. Kathy Hochul of New York last month and will be co-chaired by New York.” The heading of the release: “New York leads multi-state consortium to drive nuclear energy deployment …” What the nuclear industry and nuclear power supporters in government are calling “advanced” nuclear power plants, the union of Concerned Scientists has
write a letter asking for full and fair consideration of your application.
The FEMA SAFER Grant program provides federal funding directly to career, combined, and volunteer fire departments for hiring new, additional firefighters, and for the recruitment and retention of volunteer firefighters.
In FY24, there is $324 million available through the program. These grants are already appropriated from our tax dollars. But you must apply to get these funds to come to our communities or they will go to other towns and cities across the country. You may find additional information about the program at fema.gov/grants/preparedness/firefighters/safer and access the Notice of Funding Opportunity and fema. gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_ gpd_safer-nofo_fy24.pdf.
The deadline to apply for the Fiscal Year 2024 SAFER grant program is July 3 at 5 p.m. eastern time. You can complete the full application at Go.Fema.gov. You may also contact the SAFER Program Help Desk for technical assistance and any questions you might have as you apply at: (866) 274-0960 or by email at FireGrants@ fema.dhs.gov.
Please do not hesitate to contact my office by calling (202) 225-5516 for any support or assistance. Thank you for your work to help protect and secure our communities, and I look forward to continuing to work with you to make Long Island safer.
LAuRA A. GILLEN Member of Congress
determined in a report, are no better — “and in some respects significantly worse” — than current nuclear plants.
a battle raged that stopped the plan ... to build seven to 11 nuclear power plants.
Tim Judson, executive director of the Nuclear Information and Resource Service, points out that Hochul made nuclear power “a specific priority in her State of the State speech” in January. In it, she declared: “The economy of the future: microchips fabs (fabrication plants). Data centers and the supercomputers that power AI need tremendous amounts of energy. To support these industries, we’ve already started developing an advanced nuclear strategy.” Hochul is a Democrat, but there is support for nuclear power among Republican officials in New York, too.
As the Syracuse.com website has reported: “Fort Drum, the u.S. Army base outside Watertown, could become the first New York site to try advanced nuclear power technology if the Army goes along with pleas from … u.S. Reps. Elise Stefanik and Claudia Tenney, both upstate Republicans.” They “issued a joint letter October 25 urging the Army to put Fort Drum first in line for one of
To the Editor:
Summer is near, and while that means sunshine and beach days, it also means uncertainty for many Long Islanders about where their next meal will come from.
Hunger doesn’t take a vacation, and unfortunately, food insecurity spikes during the summer when school meal programs pause and food donations tend to slow down. That’s why PSEG Long Island has launched our fifth annual Power to Feed Long Island food drive, a civic effort to support our neighbors in need.
Starting June 13 in Massapequa and through the end of September, PSEG will be setting up food collection bins at eight Stop & Shop supermarkets across the Island — one location every other Friday. The list can be found at PsegLiNy.com/ feedLI. We encourage everyone to donate nonperishable food items and personal care essentials, all of which will be distributed through our partners at Island Harvest Food Bank to local pantries, soup kitchens, and food programs throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties.
As a small token of thanks, PSEG Long Island volunteers will be offering free LED light bulbs and reusable shopping bags to donors. Representatives will also be on hand to provide information about energy efficiency and financial assistance programs. Island Harvest staff will share how they are working to combat hunger every day.
the small modular nuclear reactors.” Stefanik is a front-runner to challenge Hochul for governor in 2026. The Syracuse.com piece noted Hochul’s drive for “new nuclear power in New York,” which was highlighted by her having “hosted an energy summit (in September) in Syracuse that focused heavily on nuclear power.”
Laura Shindell, New York State director of the organization Food & Water Watch, criticizes what she terms “Governor Hochul’s nuclear embrace” and said she should commit to “real climate and affordable energy solutions.” World Nuclear News, a publication of the World Nuclear Association, ran an article in January headlined “New York State looks to advanced nuclear.” It reported that Hochul has advanced “a master plan for advanced nuclear development” and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority “has joined Constellation (Energy, the largest nuclear power plant operator in the u.S.), on a grant proposal to help it pursue an early site permit for advanced nuclear reactors” at the site of the Nine Mile Point 1 and 2 nuclear plants upstate.
Karl Grossman is an author, TV program host and journalism professor at SUNY Old Westbury.
In the past four years of Power to Feed events, Long Islanders have donated the equivalent of more than 130,000 meals. So as we get ready to enjoy backyard cookouts and Ducks games, let’s remember that there is hunger in every ZIP code on Long Island. Please join us and our part-
ners, Stop & Shop and Island Harvest, as we work to put more meals on more tables this season. Because no one should go hungry in our community.
