Lynbrook/East Rockaway Herald 07-09-2026

Lynbrook, East Rockaway celebrate class of 2026

Lynbrook and East Rockaway seniors marked the end of their high school careers at commencement ceremonies on June 26. In Lynbrook, above, members of the Class of 2026 celebrated after recieving their diplomas during graduation excersises at Marion Street School. In East Rockaway, at right, graduates crossed the stage on the high school football field before celebrating with the traditional cap toss. Families, friends, and faculty gathered in both communities to honor the graduates. Stories, more photos, pages 3, 8.

The Bristal has L.I.’s first BrainFit Gym

By KAyLA DECHTER kdechter@liherald.com

The Bristal at Lynbrook has completed a $10 million renovation, introducing the first BrainFit Gym on Long Island, a new cognitive wellness space designed to help residents strengthen memory, decision-making and overall brain health.

The assisted-living community on Freer Street, which includes 122 residential units and 165 beds, celebrated the transformation with a ribbon-cutting ceremony June 23, showcasing updated common areas, new furnishings, artwork, flooring and amenities alongside technology aimed at promoting healthy aging.

to live healthier and more active lives than previous generations. We want it to feel like a five-star hotel for our residents.”

Silva-Magalhaes said today’s seniors are looking for more than quality health care. Many want to maintain their independence while enjoying chef-prepared dining, fitness opportunities, social connections and programs that support cognitive health.

M y sessions in the BrainFit Gym have been fun, and have helped me see how I can improve myself.

DEBRAH EARLEy Vice president, Resident

Council

“We wanted to redesign the interior to focus on a high-level luxury environment for our seniors,” said Amy Silva-Magalhaes, chief operating officer of Ultimate Care Assisted Living Management, which oversees The Bristal. “We want our residents to know they’re here

“The biggest thing seniors want is their independence and wellness,” she said. “They want lifelong wellness and beautiful surroundings.”

One of the renovation’s biggest additions is the BrainFit Gym, a dedicated space repurposed on the building’s first floor where residents participate in individualized cognitive training using technology that combines physical movement with mental exercises.

Using research-based dual-

Continued on page 9

Class of 2026 closes chapter at Lynbrook H.S.

Lynbrook High School celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2026 during commencement exercises on June 26, as seniors officially joined more than a century of Lynbrook alumni.

Family members and friends gathered on the Marion Street School field as graduates processed in green and gold gowns before receiving their diplomas. Salutatorian Aidan Michaels encouraged his classmates to pursue their goals, telling them, “From now on, our lives are up to us, and that means our dreams are in our hands. It’s up to us to protect those dreams.”

Valedictorian Jack Murray reflected on the unique paths taken by each member of the graduating class. “That is the beauty of choosing your own adventure,” Murray said. “Each and every one of our paths was unique — and valuable for the uniqueness, not in spite of it.”

Principal Matthew Sarosy celebrated the Class of 2026’s accomplishments in academics, athletics and extracurricular activities, reminding graduates that commencement marked “another important first step” into the future. After each senior received a diploma, graduates turned their tassels and tossed their caps into the air, bringing their time at Lynbrook High School to a close.

— Kayla Dechter

Lynbrook firefighters extinguish BBQ fire

Lynbrook firefighters extinguished a backyard barbecue kitchen fire on Russell Street late on June 30, preventing the flames from spreading beyond the outdoor cooking area.

According to Lynbrook Fire Department spokesman Steve Grogan, the fire damaged the outdoor kitchen and an exterior kitchen wall before members of Vulcan Company brought it under control with a single hose line.

The department operated under the command of Second Assistant Chief Phil Tkacz. Firefighters remained on scene for about 30 minutes before clearing the incident.

No injuries were reported.

— Kayla Dechter

New stop signs approved near West End for safety

By KAYLA DECHTER kdechter@liherald.com

A pair of new stop signs will soon be installed at the intersection of Burtis Street and Marshall Avenue after the Lynbrook Village Board approved the traffic safety measure at its June 15 meeting.

The signs, expected to be installed this summer, are intended to improve safety for drivers, pedestrians and students walking to and from West End School.

The request began earlier this year when Lynbrook resident Jamie Flannery contacted the Lynbrook Police Department, asking officials to evaluate the intersection. A lifelong Lynbrook resident, Flannery said she has long been concerned about speeding vehicles on Burtis Street.

“I’ve lived here my whole life,” Flannery said. “It’s always been a concern with cars flying down Burtis Street.”

Now raising three children in the neighborhood, she said the issue became even more personal.

“My kids play outside daily, and I’m always so worried the cars are going to fly down while they’re outside,” Flannery said. “There have been numerous almost accidents and accidents at this intersection.”

With her oldest daughter approaching the age when she will begin walking to West End School, Flannery said she no longer felt comfortable with the existing traffic pattern.

“It was about protecting children and creating a safer neighborhood for everyone, especially during school hours,” she said.

Lynbrook Police Chief Brian Paladino said requests for stop signs are common, but they are evaluated using traffic data rather than public opinion alone.

“Over the years, I get a lot of requests for stop signs,” Paladino said. “They don’t necessarily mean people will stop, but they definitely slow traffic down.”

To evaluate the request, the department used recently acquired traffic analysis software that measures vehicle speeds and traffic volumes using anonymous

GPS and cellular data. Paladino said the technology provides a clearer picture of traffic patterns than the department previously had.

“In the past, we had crash reports and anecdotal information,” he said. “Now we’re able to look at traffic volumes and speeds much more easily.”

Although the intersection’s crash history alone did not immediately justify a stop sign, Paladino said the department found three crashes there over the past five years — a relatively high number for a neighborhood intersection.

Highway Sergeant Jason Massaro, who oversees the department’s Highway Safety Program, conducted a traffic assessment that also found heavier-than-normal traffic volumes and higher vehicle speeds during school arrival and dismissal times, as well as during the morning and evening rush.

Paladino said the intersection’s unusual layout also contributed to safety concerns. Marshall Avenue does not align directly across Burtis Street, creating an offset intersection that can make it more difficult for drivers to navigate.

Based on the findings, the department recommended installing stop signs on eastbound and westbound Burtis Street at Marshall Avenue. Existing stop signs on Marshall Avenue will remain in place.

“West End is situated in a neighborhood where a lot of people walk to school, and we have students from Lynbrook North who walk that way,” Paladino said. “It will improve safety, and we thought it was the right thing to do.”

West End Elementary School Principal Leah Murray welcomed the board’s decision.

“The health, safety and well-being of our students, staff and families remain our highest priority, and we appreciate the Village of Lynbrook’s responsiveness and partnership in helping to enhance safety around our school through the installation of a stop sign at West End,” Murray wrote in an email. “We are grateful for the strong relationship between the Village and our district in supporting our school community.”

HERALD SPORTS

Racing fans say final goodbye to Aqueduct

By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

There were plenty of cheers along with some tears in South Ozone Park June 28 as 6,866 horse racing fans bid farewell to Aqueduct Racetrack.

The crowd at ‘The Big A’ roared one last time as Assume Nothing, with jockey Jaime Rodriguez aboard, went wireto-wire to capture the final race of the track’s storied 132-year history.

“This is where my career started in 2010 and it feels amazing to win the last race on the last day,” Rodriguez said. “I’ve ridden the horse a few times and knew if he got a clean break, he’d have a great chance to win.”

After the finale, Rodriguez and the rest of the jockey colony celebrated with fans along the rail, giving out high fives and fist bumps. One fan hoisted a cardboard sign that read: “One more day! Give me a chance to win it back.”

Several thousand fans arrived two hours before the nine-race card began at 1:10 p.m. The first 1,000 through the doors received a small mason jar containing dirt from the main track.

One of the highlights on Aqueduct’s final day came not on the dirt but the turf in the penultimate race when Highway Harmony set a new track record at the 6-furlong distance, taking the last stakes race at the track in 1:06.44 under jockey Edgard Zayas.

Ron Berkowitz, a Merrick resident who grew up in Lynbrook, had the closing date circled on his calendar once it

was announced by the New York Racing Association.

“It’s a bittersweet day,” Berkowitz said. “I’ve been coming here since the late 1970s and really fell in love with the track and the sport. I haven’t been here in a couple of years, but there was no way I was missing today.”

Franklin Square residents Anthony and Sally Turco echoed Berkowitz’s sentiments. “Today brings back a lot of

made

at Aqueduct, “Goretty” came in 2008. “So many memories,” he added. “I won’t miss the Belt Parkway, but I’ll definitely miss the Big A.”

great memories of coming to the Big A with family,” Anthony said. “Lots of nostalgia. It was awesome.”

The Turcos were in the paddock prior to the fifth race with friend Bruce Brown, a longtime trainer on the NYRA circuit and Floral Park resident. Brown saddled the winner, Boston’s Phinest.

“This is where it all started for me in New York when I came over from New Jersey,” said Brown, whose first winner

The closure of Aqueduct coincides with a rebuilt Belmont Park, set to open Sept. 18.

“I can see the new Belmont grandstand from my house,” said Brown, who expects to have between 15 and 20 horses in his barn once racing shifts back downstate from Saratoga. “I’ve watched the construction from the beginning to what’s almost the end and it’s going to be incredible when it opens,” he added.

Another duckling rescue for Lynbrook F.D.

Just one month after Lynbrook firefighters rescued a duckling from a storm drain on Wright Avenue, village first responders were back at it on June 30, rescuing four ducklings trapped in another storm drain near Taco Bell on Merrick Road.

According to Lynbrook Fire Department spokesman Steve Grogan, Lynbrook police officers Robert Geldmacher and Joseph Castellano responded at about 6 p.m. to a report of ducklings trapped in a storm drain in the Taco Bell parking lot between Wilson and Taft avenues. The officers found four ducklings deep inside the drain and called for assistance.

First Assistant Fire Chief Peter Festa, who also serves as a Lynbrook police officer, retrieved a portable

Lynbrook police officers and firefighters remove grating from sewer to rescue four ducklings.

closet ladder from the Vulcan Company firehouse, while the department’s Emergency Medical Company ambulance, returning from a nearby call, stopped to help.

Using a Halligan tool, responders removed the heavy grate before lowering the ladder into the drain. Officer Geldmacher climbed down and carefully rescued the four ducklings, passing them to emergency medical company members Maurice Edwards, Madison Murphy, Susan Dominguez and Brianna Edwards, who wore protective gloves while handling the birds.

According to Grogan, the ducklings were alert and showed no visible signs of injury. They were reunited with their mother and safely waddled away together.

— Kayla Dechter

Hempstead Avenue Malverne, NY 11565 516-599-2800 www.newman-realty.com

Congratulations Giacomo “Jack” Sorrentino

45 YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE

This year, Newman Realty is proud to recognize Jack Sorrentino for an incredible 45 years as a dedicated real estate professional with our company.

Since joining Newman Realty, Jack has consistently demonstrated the professionalism, integrity, and commitment that our clients have come to know and trust. His knowledge of the local market, dedication to his clients, and genuine passion for helping people have made him an invaluable member of our team.

Over the past four decades, Jack has helped countless families achieve their real estate goals while building lasting relationships throughout the community. His experience and unwavering work ethic continue to make him one of the most respected and accomplished representatives in our office.

We’re proud to celebrate this remarkable milestone and are grateful that Jack continues to be an active and valued member of the Newman Realty family.

Congratulations on 45 outstanding years we look forward to many more!

East Rockaway High School marks graduation

East Rockaway High School celebrated the graduation of its 114-member Class of 2026 during commencement exercises on June 26 on the school’s football field.

Family members and friends filled the stands as graduates marched into the stadium before receiving their diplomas. Superintendent James DeTommaso reminded graduates that commencement was “about much more than diplomas and tassels,” calling it “a journey” made possible by students, teachers, families and the community.

Salutatorian Victoria Schaefer reflected on her classmates’ shared experiences, saying that “love” defined their time at East Rockaway, while valedictorian Charlotte Webster encouraged graduates to embrace change. “I think change is the collection of moments that shape us into who we are and who we will become,” Webster said.

Principal Rich Schaffer reminded graduates that the experiences guiding their futures had already begun in East Rockaway, and class president Sean Smith summed up the evening by telling classmates, “Somehow, the place we could not wait to leave became the place we will never forget.” Following the presentation of diplomas, the Class of 2026 celebrated with the traditional cap toss.

—Kayla Dechter

New BrainFit Gym contributes to cognitive wellness

task technology, the BrainFit Gym combines interactive games with physical movement to strengthen memory, processing speed, reaction time and decision-making. Residents begin with an assessment before following personalized programs tailored to their individual cognitive needs using equipment such as the SmartFit system.

Resident Council Vice President Debrah Earley, 77, said the program has already had a positive impact.

“My sessions in the BrainFit Gym have been fun, and have helped me see how I can improve myself,” Earley said. “Cognitively and physically, I think BrainFit is a beneficial program when it comes to long-term improvement.”

“The gym is our dedicated space for cognitive wellness,” said Evan Rossi, corporate director of program innovation and engagement for Ultimate Care Assisted Living Management. “We’re investing in technology that can better different aspects of the resident experience.”

After residents complete their assessments, they participate in games and activities designed to strengthen different areas of the brain. Rossi said each resident follows a personalized program

anita mancini, of Zucker Hillside Hospital, tries the SmartFit machine during a demonstration of The Bristal at Lynbrook’s new BrainFit Gym.

that focuses on executive function, including planning, processing speed and reaction time.

One resident told him the training improved her reaction time after she experienced several falls.

“She said she was able to react quickly and catch herself instead of falling,” Rossi said. “There’s no issue with doing crossword puzzles, but eventually you know what to expect. This technology engages different parts of the brain and helps build confidence.”

Renovations began around March with work on the parking garage before moving into the building and were completed over about four months while residents continued living there. According to David Burman, principal of B2K Development, the parent company of The Bristal and a development firm that builds all Bristal communities while also performing third-party construction, the project required careful planning to minimize disruptions.

The renovation included new stone flooring in the lobby, updated lighting and fixtures, a new bar, and refreshed gathering spaces intended to create a brighter, more welcoming atmosphere.

“When things are new, fresh and elevated, people feel better,” Burman said.

“They feel better about where they live, and it’s a much better experience for them.”

Burman said the most rewarding part of the project has been seeing residents embrace their updated home.

“People are happier and more social because they live in a nice environ -

ment,” he said. “That’s our goal — to make them happy and healthy.”

The Lynbrook location is the first of The Bristal’s 16 Long Island communities to feature the BrainFit Gym, and company officials said they plan to expand the program to additional Bristal communities in the future.

The Scourge of Ageism

9,

Nassau celebrates America’s 250th at Eisenhower

Thousands of residents gathered at Eisenhower Park on July 2 for Nassau County’s annual Celebrate America Fireworks & Drone Show, kicking off Independence Day festivities and commemorating America’s 250th anniversary. Families and friends filled Parking Field No. 6 with lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy an evening of patriotic entertainment, including live performances by Glenn Strange, Chicken Head and Let Freedom Rock. The free celebration concluded with a fireworks and drone show that lit up the night sky in honor of the nation’s semiquincentennial. The event was presented by Nassau County and TD Bank and drew crowds from across Long Island for an evening of music, community and patriotic pride.

Lynbrook Class of 1976 reunites, gives back

By KAYLA DECHTER kdechter@liherald.com

Fifty years after graduating from Lynbrook High School, members of the Class of 1976 reunited not only to celebrate old friendships, but also to leave a lasting gift for future Owls.

After organizing their 50th reunion this spring, classmates Nancy Chiaffitelli, Maryellen Occhipinti and Helen vonCzerniewicz Ranieri discovered they had more than $500 left over from the event. Rather than divide the remaining funds, the group decided to donate the money back to Lynbrook High School in the form of a scholarship recognizing school spirit and academic excellence.

The scholarship was presented to graduating senior Aidan Michaels during the school’s annual awards ceremony in May.

“It was really amazing,” Chiaffitelli said. “I felt so privileged, on behalf of my class, to go back to my alma mater and have the opportunity to present the scholarship to Aidan.”

The reunion itself was months in the making. After learning that organizers of previous reunions were unable to

coordinate a 50th celebration, Chiaffitelli, Occhipinti and Capobianco stepped in.

Planning began in January, with Occhipinti helping organize the event while spending the winter in Florida. The trio tracked down classmates through social media, eventually welcoming 55 attendees — including classmates who traveled from Canada, Arizona, Delaware and Maryland.

“We would have hoped for more,” Chiaffitelli said, “but it was still such a charmed evening. Everybody really enjoyed it.”

Held at EGP Land & Sea in Island Park on May 2, the reunion featured live music from a 1970s band, an open bar and buffet, giving classmates an opportunity to reconnect after decades apart.

“It was truly an amazing experience to see people I hadn’t seen in 50 years,” Chiaffitelli said. “It’s emotional because you look into their eyes and you still see them as 17-year-olds.”

For Occhipinti, one of the evening’s greatest successes was its intimate atmosphere.

“Everyone said it was probably the best reunion we had

Courtesy Helen vonCzerniewicz Ranieri

The 50th Reunion the committee Gary Occhipinti, left, Maryellen Nelson Occhipinti, Nancy Chiaffitelli, and Helen vonCzerniewicz Ranieri welcome the class of 1776 at their reunion.

because so many people were genuine in their stories,” she said. “It was intimate enough for everyone to get to speak to one another.”

Her husband, Gary Occhipinti, who graduated with the class and has been with Maryellen for more than five decades, agreed.

“Nobody had to impress anybody,” he said. “We were all just so happy to catch up again.”

Both women said their memories of Lynbrook High School extend far beyond graduation. They recalled spirited Class Night competitions, basketball games, lunchtime pizza runs to

Gino’s and friendships that have lasted since childhood.

“We were a class of great school spirit,” Chiaffitelli said. “Lynbrook was a beautiful part of my life.”

Ranieri said many students in their class were involved in organizations that emphasized community service.

“I was part of Alpha Delta, and when I joined, we made a decision to become more community-oriented,” Ranieri said. “There was a stigma that sorority girls in high school were tougher kids, but we focused on projects like bake sales to help out wherever we could.”

Occhipinti said that sense of community is what inspired the scholarship.

“I was one of the ones who helped initiate that idea, and it was the best thing,” she said. “A little something of what we did 50 years ago was going back to them.”

For Chiaffitelli, the reunion was also a reminder of how quickly time passes.

“Life is a journey,” she said. “It brings tears to my eyes when I think back, and I’m hopeful the connections we renewed at this reunion will last forever.”

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Cover Story

Summer in motion

Longer days, warm temperatures and abundant sunshine make summer an ideal season to take your fitness routine outdoors. Whether it’s a morning run or walk along the boardwalk, a bike ride, a game of tennis or pickleball, yoga on the beach, or even a family hike, exercising outside o ers both physical and mental health benefits.

An outdoor workout does more than change your scenery. Exercising outdoors has been linked to improved mood, lowered stress, better cardiovascular health, and more motivation to move consistently. Even walking outside can be an excellent workout, especially when you do it regularly. Fresh air and a change of scenery can make workouts feel less like a chore and more like an enjoyable part of your day.

Of course, summer’s relaxed pace — complete with vacations, barbecues, beach days and social gatherings — can sometimes derail even the best fitness intentions. The key is finding ways to incorporate activity into seasonal routines while taking precautions against heat and sun exposure.

Beat the heat

Summer temperatures can quickly turn a workout into a health risk. Exercising during the hottest parts of the day can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion or even heat stroke.

Whenever possible, schedule outdoor activities during the cooler morning or evening hours, typically before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m. Check the heat index before heading outside, and if temperatures or humidity levels are extreme, consider moving your workout indoors to an air-conditioned gym, recreation center or your own home.

Watch for warning signs of heatrelated illness, including dizziness, headache, nausea, excessive fatigue, muscle cramps or confusion. If symptoms occur, stop exercising immediately, move to a cool location and rehydrate.

Protect your skin

While we all love being outside, the sun doesn’t love us. Even on cloudy days, ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage skin and increase the risk of skin cancer.

Health experts recommend applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 about 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating heavily.

Additional protection includes wearing lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses. Light-colored fabrics help reflect heat and keep the

body cooler during outdoor activities.

Hydration matters

Proper hydration is essential yearround, but it becomes especially important during the summer months.

The American College of Sports Medicine recommends drinking approximately three to eight ounces of fluid every 15 to 20 minutes during exercise, depending on intensity and environmental conditions. For prolonged or high-intensity workouts lasting more than an hour, sports drinks may help replace electrolytes lost through sweat.

Don’t wait until you feel thirsty to drink. Thirst is often a sign that dehydration has already begun. Carry a reusable water bottle and drink fluids before, during and after physical activity.

After exercise, experts recommend consuming 20 to 24 ounces of water or a sports beverage for every pound of body weight lost during exercise. Don’t skip the warm-up

Warm weather doesn’t eliminate the need to prepare your body for exercise. A proper warm-up gradually increases heart rate, loosens muscles and improves flexibility, helping reduce the risk of strains and injuries.

Spend five to 10 minutes performing light aerobic activity such as brisk walking, followed by dynamic stretches that target the muscles you’ll be using during your workout. Cooling down afterward is equally important and can help prevent sti ness and aid recovery.

Try something new

Summer o ers endless opportunities to shake up your exercise routine. Trying new activities can prevent boredom and challenge di erent muscle groups.

Consider adding activities such as:

• Walking or jogging on local trails

• Swimming or water aerobics

• Outdoor yoga classes

• Kayaking or paddleboarding

• Hiking

• Recreational sports leagues

Our parks, beaches and community organizations also o er free or low-cost fitness classes throughout the summer.

Rev up the heart and cardiovascular system with sports you can play in the great outdoors. Eschew indoor racquetball for a game on an outdoor court. Try pickleball instead.

It’s easy to break a sweat and enjoy a good workout when a game of hoops is taken outdoors. Head out to your nearby park and check out the action on the basketball courts. Pickup football or baseball is another way to enjoy physical activity outdoors, especially for those who may not be gym hounds. Both sports provide a cardiovascular workout while building muscle. When you’re

engrossed in the game, you’re having fun and getting fit at the same time.

Even consider using items in your favored park to tailor a complete workout. Park benches can serve as a workout bench where athletes can do push-ups, triceps dips and step-up exercises. Stretch on a jungle gym or use monkey bars to fit in some pull-ups.

You’ll find that some parks even have their own fitness zones with exercise equipment built into the design.

Hike on! A nearby park or preserve that features walking trails is a good place to begin an outdoor workout. Some parks build exercise stations into their hiking paths, enabling visitors to vary their workouts along the way. Signs may also point out particular exercises that can be done during the hike, such as lunges or squats.

Hiking is a good cardiovascular workout that is particularly beneficial when done on varied terrain. Mixing uphill and downhill portions of the trail with level ones will work the various muscles in the legs and also provide greater resistance to get the heart pumping.

Take advantage of the beach

We’re surrounded by beaches, so make the most of our environment! After all, that’s one of the best features about living on Long Island. The beach provides much more than a place to relax. It can also serve as a natural fitness center.

Swimming in the ocean provides a full-body workout, as the resistance created by waves and currents challenges muscles while the water’s buoyancy reduces stress on joints. Water workouts are especially beneficial for older adults and those with arthritis or mobility concerns.

Walking or running on sand requires more effort than exercising on pavement because the unstable surface engages additional muscles in the legs,

Summer is an ideal time to trade the treadmill for trails, parks,

core and hips.

As a result, beach workouts can improve strength, balance and cardiovascular fitness.

Even active beach outings that involve carrying chairs, coolers, umbrellas and beach gear can contribute to daily physical activity goals.

Keep moving all summer long

Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, along with musclestrengthening activities on two or more days, according to federal health guidelines.

Summer is the perfect season

to reconnect with the outdoors and discover enjoyable ways to stay active. By taking sensible precautions, staying hydrated and making movement part of everyday life, you can enjoy all the benefits of the season while supporting your long-term health and wellness.

The Best Outdoor Workouts to Try

1. Trail Running

What it works: Lower body, core, and cardiovascular system

Benefits: Trail running demands balance, coordination, and strength. Unlike conditions on a flat road or treadmill, trail running requires more physical effort,

Cedrina Calder, M.D., a boardcertified preventive medicine physician and fitness professional says.

“The balance and stability required on the trail engages and strengthens your core muscles. It also requires greater use of your lower limb muscles, including the glutes, quads, and calves.”

Trail running can also support mental health and often feels more engaging than repeating laps on a track.

“It requires 100-percent mental focus — or you subject yourself to a tumble,” says fitness expert Tina Vindum, M.S., C.P.T.

A 2020 study published in BMC Public Health found that people who completed at least 6.5 miles of trail running reported higher wellness and health scores. Additional research suggests that spending 90 minutes moving in nature can help reduce depressive rumination.

Beginner tips: Start with wellmarked trails and shorter distances, focusing on time on feet rather than pace. Keep your eyes a few feet ahead, shorten your stride, and use walking breaks on steep hills to manage intensity and protect your knees.

2. Surfing

What it works: Upper body, core, anaerobic conditioning, and balance Benefits: Surfing blends aerobic paddling with short bursts of anaerobic effort that feel similar to a HIIT routine.

“It’s a great anaerobic exercise that will help strengthen the trapezius, abdominals, and obliques, as well as the lats, triceps, biceps, and deltoids,” Jimmy Minardi, C.P.T., founder of Minardi Training, says.

Water-based workouts can offer a powerful reset and stress relief in ways a gym can’t match. “I can tell you one thing after being a devout surfer for [many] years, the tranquil and buoyant qualities of being in the water lift your spirits up,” Minardi said.

Beginner tips: Work with a certified instructor and start on smaller waves. Always check tides, weather, and surf conditions and wear appropriate safety

gear, such as a leash and personal flotation device.

3. Hiking

What it works: Cardiovascular system, lower body, and aerobic endurance

Benefits: Hiking intensity is highly customizable, making it an accessible outdoor workout.

“Hiking can be a great cardio workout as long as it’s intense enough to significantly raise your heart rate and respiratory rate,” Calder says.

Elevation gain, speed, and pack weight all influence intensity, allowing you to progressively increase the challenge as your fitness improves. Beyond fitness, hiking encourages mindfulness and sensory awareness in a natural environment. Spending time on the trail can also help reduce stress, support mental health, and improve sleep.

Beginner tips: Choose shorter trails with minimal elevation gain and use hiking poles if knee comfort is a concern. Wear supportive footwear, carry water, and plan your route so you finish before dark and avoid extreme heat.

Join us on the Long Beach Boardwalk for no-cost health screenings at Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Community Wellness Center

Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Community Wellness Center, 106 Boardwalk in Long Beach, is open all summer to help you enjoy the season safely. Stop in for no-cost health screenings. (See a full list of hours and screenings below.)

To make safety a priority, Mount Sinai South Nassau’s experts have compiled these important summer safety tips:

1. Tick Bites, Bee Stings and Insect Bites: One of the best ways to avoid ticks, mosquitoes, bees, and other insects is to apply EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, skin-friendly picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus onto clothing and exposed parts of your body. Other steps include: Wear light, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and shoes/sneakers when hiking or gardening to reduce exposed skin areas.

2. Sunburn: When the skin — the body’s largest organ — soaks up the sun, it helps produce vitamin D, which is vital to maintaining a healthy calcium balance, immunity, blood pressure, and insulin secretion. When skin is repeatedly exposed to the sun for extended periods of time, the risk can far outweigh the reward.

The American Academy of Dermatologists recommends you:

• Minimize sun exposure between the hours of 10 am and 3 pm

• Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 that protects against both harmful UVA and UVB rays to every part of your body exposed to the sun

• Reapply sunscreen every two hours, even on cloudy days

• Wear clothing that covers the body and shades the face

• Schedule an annual skin cancer screening

3. Water and Pool Safety: Whether spending time in the pool, at the beach, or on a boat:

• Never leave a child unsupervised near or around any water source

• Wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets during boating and fishing activities

• Keep a safe distance from boat propellers

• Learn CPR, especially if you and your family participate in water activities

Orthopedic Injuries: More than half of all sports and recreation-related injuries are preventable, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. To reduce your risk of injury:

• Warm up first: perform gentle stretches before playing, practicing, or training

• Diversify training by alternating exercises like walking, jogging, biking, or weightlifting

• If you feel pain, soreness, or tightness, stop! Early

intervention is key to avoiding further injury

4. Dehydration: Symptoms of dehydration may include some or all of the following: lethargy, dizziness, deep or rapid breathing, muscle cramps, dry mouth and nose, and a drop in blood pressure. Prevent dehydration by drinking six to eight cups of water per day; avoid consumption of tea, coffee, soda, or alcohol on hot days or during recreational activities; and take a break from the sun and heat in a cool, shaded area

5. Picnic Food Preparation and Storage: Food that is not prepared and stored properly is a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. For a safe picnic:

• Wrap uncooked chicken and meats in separate tightly sealed bags or containers and place them at the bottom of the cooler

• Store foods with mayonnaise in the cooler and be sure to serve them on platters that are chilled by ice-filled salad bowls

• Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot

• Freeze foods that are prepared more than one day in advance of the picnic

• Discard all leftovers

The Community Wellness Center, a service of Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Department of Community Education, is offering daily health education and screening events throughout the summer and early fall. This includes:

Monday: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. — EKG screenings for student athletes, ages 13-25 (registration is required)

9 a.m.-2 p.m.— Narcan and Stop the Bleed training*

Tuesday: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. — Diabetes, prostatespecific antigen (PSA), cholesterol blood tests

10 a.m.-12 p.m. — CPR/Basic Life Support certification (registration is required)

Wednesday: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. — Blood pressure loaner program*

Noon-3 p.m. — Lung health*

Thursday: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. —.Diabetes, PSA, cholesterol blood tests

1-3 p.m. — Diabetes risk assessment screenings*

Friday: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. — How to take your blood pressure at home*

9 a.m.-2 p.m. — Healthy eating and teddy bear clinic for kids*

= 30- to 60-minute sessions provided within the timeframe

The Center also offers free blood pressure, colorectal, memory, body mass index, diabetes risk, and stroke risk screenings Monday-Friday, 9 am-2 pm. The Center does not provide medical care. For more information, call the Department of Community Education at (516) 377-5333 or follow us on Facebook.

Join Us at the Mount Sinai South Nassau Community Wellness Center for Daily Health Screenings

and Community Education Events

106 East Boardwalk, Long Beach

(Between Long Beach Blvd. & Riverside Blvd. Enter via ramp at boardwalk level )

June 1- September 4, 2026

EKG Screenings for Students Ages 13-25 (pre-registration required) | 9 am - 2 pm

Narcan and Stop the Bleed Training* | 9 am - 2 pm

*30-60 minute sessions available within this timeframe.

CPR/BLS Certification (pre-registration required) | 10 am - 12 pm

Blood Test (Diabetes, PSA, Cholesterol) | Call 516-377-5333 to schedule

Blood Pressure Cuff Loaner Program* | 9 am - 2 pm

*30-60 minute sessions available within this timeframe.

Diabetes Risk Assessment Screenings* | 12 pm - 2 pm

*30-60 minute sessions available within this timeframe.

Blood Test (Diabetes, PSA, Cholesterol) | Call 516-377-5333 to schedule

How to Take Your Blood Pressure at Home* | 9 am - 2 pm

Healthy Eating & Teddy Bear Clinic for Kids* | 9 am - 2 pm

*30-60 minute sessions available within this timeframe.

We also offer FREE Health Screenings (Monday - Friday, 9 am - 2 pm) including:

• Blood Pressure

• Body Mass Index (BMI)

• Colorectal Screening

• Diabetes Risk Assessment

• Memory Screening

• Stroke Risk Assessment

We are also offering COVID-19, Shingles, and Pneumonia Vaccines. For more information about the program, please call 516-377-5333

Programs subject to change. Please refer to our Facebook page @MountSinaiSouthNassau for weekly schedule.

This is not a patient care facility. In case of emergency, please call 911.

Stronger bones start with healthy kidneys at Queens-Long Island Renal Institute

Healthy bones depend on healthy kidneys, and at Queens-Long Island Renal Institute (QLIRI), protecting bone health is essential to comprehensive kidney care. The kidneys regulate calcium and phosphorus levels and activate vitamin D, maintaining bone strength. When kidney disease interferes with these processes, bones can weaken, increasing the risk of fractures.

The QLIRI team takes a proactive approach to preserving bone health. Through ongoing lab monitoring, individualized treatment plans and expert nutritional guidance, QLIRI helps patients maintain the delicate balance of minerals that supports strong bones.

For those on dialysis, maintaining optimal calcium, phosphorus and parathyroid hormone levels can significantly help bones stay strong. QLIRI’s specialists collaborate closely with patients to fine-tune care plans and prevent complications.

Even small lifestyle steps — including

approved exercises, lower-phosphorus diets and prescribed medications — can strengthen bones and improve quality of life.

With advanced technology, a compassionate care team and a focus on education and prevention, QLIRI empowers patients to protect their bone and kidney health, helping them stay strong, active and independent.

About the Queens-Long Island Renal Institute

The Queens-Long Island Renal Institute (QLIRI) is a state-of-the-art dialysis center, conveniently located inside the first-floor lobby at Parker Jewish Institute in New Hyde Park, New York. QLIRI provides patients with the finest quality care, stateof-the-art technology, and uncompromised dignity, in a bright, ultra-modern and comfortable setting. Licensed by the New York State Department of Health, QLIRI is led by a compassionate and dedicated interdisciplinary team of experienced

Nephrologists and Dialysis Registered Nurses, a Renal Social worker and a Registered Dietitian. QLIRI also offers home dialysis, providing patients the flexibility to access needed care without ever leaving their homes, while also freeing up time to engage in their daily activities.

For more information, visit qliri.org or call (718) 289-2600.

Queens Long Island Renal Institute • 271-11 76th Ave., New Hyde Park • (718) 289-2600

Health memos are supplied by advertisers and are not written by the Herald editorial staff.

The Freedom To Hear and Stay Independent.

very Independence Day, we celebrate freedom.

Dr. Keith N. Darrow, Ph.D., CCC-A

Each Fourth of July, Americans gather to celebrate independence declared nearly 250 years ago, honoring freedom through family, parades, fireworks, and shared stories. As the nation approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026, independence is not only a historic idea but an ongoing responsibility to protect, renew, and pass forward.

Independence also applies to personal health. For many people, it means living confidently— managing daily life, participating in conversations, making decisions, and staying connected without relying on others to interpret the world.

But for millions with untreated hearing loss and tinnitus, that independence slowly erodes. It often begins with asking for repetition, increasing television volume, avoiding noisy environments, and withdrawing

from social situations that once felt effortless.

Over time, hearing loss affects not just hearing but participation in life. Spouses often become interpreters, conversations become shorter, and social events become more stressful. This shift can strain relationships and reduce quality of life for both people.

Medical treatment for hearing loss and tinnitus focuses on improving clarity, reducing listening effort, and restoring

access to sound. The goal is not only louder hearing, but better understanding and fuller participation in everyday life.

Untreated hearing loss is also linked in research to cognitive decline risk, making hearing health an important part of brain health and long-term independence.

Tinnitus can further reduce independence when people rely on masking sounds such as fans, apps, or sound machines to cope

with constant ringing. Effective treatment aims to reduce the brain’s reaction to tinnitus, not just cover it.

This Independence Day, take action if hearing loss or tinnitus is affecting your life.

Schedule a hearing evaluation with Hearing and Brain Centers of America by calling (516) 212- 0691 or request information by visiting HBCABookOffer.com

Learn more to understand treatment options that support communication, brain health, and lasting independence.

Be sun smart

Take precautions so that the sun is friend not foe

For many people, summer means long days spent outdoors relaxing at the beach, boating on the water, tending the garden, enjoying backyard barbecues or simply lounging by the pool. While sunshine can lift our spirits and encourage us to be active, too much exposure to the sun can have serious consequences for our health.

A moderate amount of sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D, which is important for bone health and immune function. But excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation can damage the skin and eyes, increase the risk of heat-related illness and significantly raise the likelihood of developing skin cancer.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, affecting millions of Americans each year.

Fortunately, many cases are preventable with proper sun protection. Whether you’re headed to the beach, the golf course, a summer concert or simply spending time in your backyard, taking a few simple precautions can help you enjoy the season safely.

Have your fun but proceed with caution

Many folks take sunburn lightly, viewing it as an inevitable part of summer. But sunburn is much more than a temporary inconvenience.

Sunburn is actually a radiation burn caused by overexposure to UV rays. Depending on its severity, a sunburn can range from mild redness and tenderness to painful blistering and swelling. Severe sunburn may even require medical attention.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that sunburn remains common among both adults and children. Yet every sunburn causes damage to skin cells.

Much of that damage cannot be seen immediately. Ultraviolet radiation penetrates the skin and can alter the DNA inside skin cells. Over time, this cumulative damage contributes to premature aging, wrinkles, age spots, loss of skin elasticity and an increased risk of skin cancers, including melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.

Because UV damage accumulates over a lifetime, practicing sun safety is important at every age.

Avoid the burn

Sunburn is one of the most preventable summertime health risks. It’s also important to remember that UV exposure occurs year-round not just on hot, sunny days. Up to 80 percent of UV rays can penetrate clouds,

As great as the sun feels, it poses serious threats to your health and appearance. Have your time in the sun while sparing your skin from damage and overall harm to your body.

and reflective surfaces such as water, sand, concrete and snow can intensify exposure.

We all know by now that artificial UV sources, including tanning beds and sun lamps, are also dangerous. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and dermatologists strongly discourage indoor tanning because it significantly increases skin cancer risk.

Seek shade

The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Whenever possible, limit prolonged outdoor activity during these peak hours.

If you are outside, take frequent breaks in the shade beneath a tree, umbrella, canopy or other shelter. Planning outdoor exercise, yard work or recreational activities during the early morning or evening hours can also help reduce UV exposure and lower the risk of heat-related illness.

Cover up

Clothing provides one of the simplest and most effective forms of sun protection.

Choose lightweight, loose-fitting garments that cover as much skin as possible, including long-sleeved shirts and long pants when practical. Densely woven, tightly constructed fabrics generally offer better protection than loosely woven materials.

Many outdoor clothing manufacturers now offer apparel with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor, or UPF, rating. UPF indicates how effectively fabric blocks UV radiation.

Clothing with a UPF rating of 30 to 50 or higher provides excellent protection. Darker colors and brighter fabrics typically absorb more UV rays than pale colors, while tightly woven materials outperform sheer or loosely

woven fabrics.

Complete your sun-protective wardrobe with a wide-brimmed hat that shades the face, ears and neck.

Wear sunscreen — and reapply it

Sunscreen is an essential part of any sun safety strategy, but it should not be your only line of defense.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Broad-spectrum products protect against both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays are primarily responsible for sunburn, while UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and contribute to premature aging and skin cancer. Both types of UV radiation can damage skin cells and increase cancer risk.

Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin about 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors. Most adults need approximately one ounce about enough to fill a shot glass to adequately cover the body.

Don’t overlook commonly missed areas, including:

• Ears

• Back of the neck

• Scalp or part line

• Tops of the feet

• Hands

• Lips

• Around the eyes

Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours, and more often after swimming, sweating or towel-drying.

Forget the ‘base tan’

Many people believe that obtaining a “base tan” before summer will protect against future sunburn. Experts say this is a myth.

A tan is actually a sign that the skin has already been damaged by UV radiation. When exposed to sunlight, the skin produces additional melanin pigment in an attempt to shield itself from further injury.

There is no such thing as a healthy tan. Any tanning or burning represents skin damage that can accumulate over time and increase skin cancer risk.

The safest way to achieve a sunkissed appearance is to use sunless self-tanning products rather than UV exposure.

Protect your eyes

The sun can damage the eyes as well as the skin.

Long-term exposure to UV radiation has been linked to cataracts, macular degeneration and certain cancers of the eyelid and eye.

Wear sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays whenever you are outdoors. Wraparound styles offer additional protection by limiting UV rays that enter from the sides.

Children require extra precautions

Infants and young children are especially vulnerable to sun damage because their skin is thinner and more sensitive.

Babies younger than six months should be kept out of direct sunlight whenever possible. Use shade, protective clothing and hats to shield infants from UV exposure.

For older infants and children, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, dress them in protective clothing and encourage regular hydration during outdoor play.

Teaching children healthy sun habits early can help reduce their lifetime risk of skin cancer.

Know when to seek medical care

Most sunburns can be treated at home with cool compresses, moisturizers, hydration and overthe-counter pain relievers. However, seek medical attention if sunburn is accompanied by:

• Extensive blistering

• Fever or chills

• Severe pain

• Confusion or dizziness

• Signs of dehydration

• Nausea or vomiting

Summer is meant to be enjoyed. By seeking shade, covering up, wearing sunscreen and practicing smart sun habits, you can safely soak up the season while protecting your health for years to come

The Parker Jewish Institute Golf Outing is set for July 27

The Parker Jewish Institute will host its 2026 Peter Seideman Golf Classic at the Fresh Meadow Country Club in Lake Success on Monday, July 27, 2026. This year’s Golf Classic begins registration and breakfast at 10 a.m., followed by shotgun start at 11:30 a.m., and cocktails and dinner at 4:30 p.m. Proceeds from the event will benefit The Parker Jewish Institute Foundation to enhance the network of programs and services for thousands of people who access Parker’s continuum of services each year.

This year’s honoree is Old Republic Commercial Risk, which the Parker Foundation is recognizing for its excellence in delivering tailored commercial insurance solutions, and for its unwavering commitment to Parker’s patients and residents.

Parker’s golf outing is one of two major annual fundraisers, including the Parker Gala. This year’s gala will be held on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at The Village Club at Lake Success.

“We are grateful to our donors, sponsors, families and dedicated team

members, whose support is integral to the Parker community,” said Michael N. Rosenblut, President and CEO of The Parker Jewish Institute. “Through their generosity and commitment, Parker will continue advancing excellence in patient care, research and innovation while enhancing the lives of those we serve.”

To learn more about the 2026 Peter Seideman Golf Classic, and about sponsorship opportunities, call the Parker Jewish Institute Foundation at (718) 289-

About The Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation

The Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation is headquartered in New Hyde Park. The facility is a leading provider of Short Term Rehabilitation and Long Term Care. At the forefront of innovation in patient-centered health care and technology, the Institute is a leader in teaching and geriatric research. Parker

Parker Jewish Institute • (718) 289-2212

Health memos are supplied by advertisers and are not written by the Herald editorial staff.

Jewish Institute features its own medical team, and is nationally renowned as a skilled nursing facility, as well as a provider of community-based health care, encompassing Home Health Care, Medical House Calls, Palliative Care and Hospice. Parker Jewish Institute is also home to Queens-Long Island Renal Institute (QLIRI) — providing patients with safe, comfortable Hemodialysis treatments in a relaxed setting — as well as PRINE Health — a Vascular Center offering advanced vascular services. The Center and QLIRI further Parker’s ability to expand access to essential health-care services to adults in the greater New York metropolitan area. For more information, please visit parkerinstitute.org or call (877) 727-5373.

BBQ #1

• 8 Beef Burgers

BBQ #2

• 8 Beef Burgers

• 8 Pack of Boars Head Hot Dogs

• 6 Mini Rings of Italian Sausage

• 2 lbs Marinated Skirt Steak (BBQ, Teriyaki, or Italian)

BBQ Packages Include:

BBQ #3

• 16 Beef Burgers

$15999

Feeds: 8-10 People

Assorted Hero/Wrap Platter

Included With Package: Small Pasta Salad Feeds: 10-12 People $17999

• 8 Pack of Boars Head Hot Dogs

• 6 Mini Rings of Italian Sausage

• 2 Ibs Marinated Skirt Steak (BBQ. Teriyaki, or Italian)

Feeds: 8-10 People $19999

• 2 Organic Bell & Evans: Whole Chickens, cut up and marinated in cur lemon garlic marinade

Prime Dry Aged Meats: Porterhouse Steaks, T-bone Steaks, Tomahawk Rib Eye, Bone-in Rib Eye

• 1 Large Pkg of Boars Head Hot Dogs

• 6 Mini Rings of Italian Sausage

• 4 Beef Ka-Bobs (Marinated or Plain)

• 4 Chicken Ka-Bobs (Marinated or Plain)

• 1 Rack of Baby Back Ribs

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• American Hero (All Boar’s Head Cold Cuts)

Call in your order for fast service Before and After the Beach!!

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• 2 lbs Marinated Skirt Steak (BBQ. Teriyaki, ar Italian) Feeds: 12-15 People

• Classic Chicken (Tender Fried Chicken cutlets topped with homemade fresh mozzarella, Our Homemade Roasted Peppers, and Balsamic vinegar Dressing

Included With Heroes:

• 3 lbs of Our Homemade Salads and Dressings (Potato + Macaroni • Coleslaw)

All heros are cut up and arranged on a platter for the convenience PICK-UP ONLY. Price does not reflect same day orders.

3 Foot Hero $6999 6 Foot Hero $13999

Inspirational drawings from our youngest readers

AMERICA

By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com

Between 1860 and 1942, agriculture remained a defining part of life on Long Island across Nassau and Suffolk counties. During the same period, transportation improvements and expanding connections to New York City began shaping economic changes that would influence Long Island’s future development.

According to the Long Island Farm Bureau, agriculture has been an important industry on Long Island since the earliest periods of Native American cultivation and European settlement.

Before European settlement, the 60,000-acre Hempstead Plains in Nassau — the largest natural prairie east of the Mississippi River — served Indigenous peoples as a vital landscape for hunting, gathering and managing natural resources. English colonists later used the expansive grasslands to graze livestock, establishing agriculture as one of the area’s earliest industries.

The organization reports that fertile soils, access to fresh water, and proximity to major markets helped make Long Island one of New York State’s most significant agricultural regions. The Farm Bureau notes that farmers produced a wide range of crops and agricultural products, including vegetables, potatoes, fruits, poultry, livestock and shellfish.

Historical records published by the Town of Brookhaven show that early residents were primarily engaged in farming, fishing and whaling. The town’s historical records further indicate that additional industries developed during the nineteenth century, but agriculture remained an important part of the local economy.

Transportation became an increasingly important factor in the region’s development. According to the Town of Brookhaven’s historical overview, the arrival of the Long Island Rail Road during the mid-19th century made travel and the movement of goods faster and easier. Historical records of Long Island transportation show that rail service reached the eastern end of

Farming fueled Long Island before suburbia

the landscape and industries of Long

the island in 1844, creating stronger links between rural communities and larger markets.

By the late 19th century, however, parts of Nassau County’s rural landscape were undergoing dramatic change as wealthy industrialists purchased North Shore farmland to build lavish country estates, creating the famed Gold Coast.

Even as the North Shore evolved, farming remained a dominant force across central Long Island. Throughout the 19th century and into the first half of the 20th century, the Island ranked among the nation’s leading potato-producing regions.

Throughout the 19th century and into the first half of the 20th century, the Island ranked among the nation’s leading potatoproducing regions.

Farming remained a dominant force across central Long Island. Throughout the 19th century and into the first half of the 20th centu-

ry, the Island ranked among the nation’s leading potato-producing regions. Thousands of acres were planted with potatoes, supporting a thriving agricultural economy and supplying markets throughout the Northeast.

While much of eastern Suffolk County remained rural during this period, signs of long-term change were emerging. Historical information published by the Town of Brookhaven states that the 20th century witnessed the town’s expansion from an agrarian community into a more diversified economy.

The transition had not yet fully occurred between 1860 and 1942, but the transportation networks and market connections established during those years

helped shape the conditions under which later development would occur.

Manorville itself retained strong agricultural roots. Historical accounts of the hamlet describe it as a farming community for many years, reflecting the broader agricultural character that defined much of central and eastern Suffolk County during the late 19th and early 20 centuries.

That era began to fade after World War II. As returning veterans fueled an unprecedented demand for housing, farmland rapidly disappeared beneath subdivisions, highways and commercial development. The transformation was perhaps most evident in Levittown, where beginning in 1947 more than 4,000 acres of former potato fields were converted into what became the nation’s most iconic suburban development, symbolizing the shift from an agricultural landscape to the suburban Long Island recognized today.

AMERICA

ABy BRIAN KACHARABA, ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN & LAYLA EASON

of the Herald

cross Long Island, history is not just preserved — it is built into the landmarks that still stand in its villages, harbors, downtowns, and shorelines, where centuries of American life are reflected in manor houses, churches, libraries, museums, crossroads, and memorials.

Together, these sites form a living timeline of the nation’s past, showing how Long Island evolved alongside the United States over more than 300 years.

One of the earliest stories begins in Bay Shore at Sagtikos Manor, one of Suffolk County’s oldest surviving structures. Built around 1697 by Stephanus Van Cortlandt, New York City’s first native-born mayor, the manor grew from a colonial estate into one of the region’s most enduring landmarks.

During the American Revolution, British forces occupied the property, placing it directly within the war’s contested landscape. In the early years of the republic, the manor is also associated with President George Washington, who stayed there for one night during his 1790 tour of Long Island, further linking the site to the nation’s founding era and its first presidential administration.

In Massapequa, Old Grace Church, established in 1844 on land donated by General Thomas Floyd-Jones, preserves nearly two centuries of community life and remains a lasting symbol of the area’s early settlement era. Nearby, the Elbert Floyd-Jones Servants Cottage,

1 2 3

Landmarks define Long Island’s history

built around 1870, survives as one of the few remnants of Massapequa’s grand estate period, offering a rare glimpse into daily life on Long Island’s 19th-century South Shore estates.

The Phillips House Museum in Rockville Centre, built in 1882 and once home to village founder James Phillips, reflects the community’s late-19th-century growth driven by commerce and transportation. Saved from demolition in the 1970s and restored during the Bicentennial era, it now stands as one of New York’s premier small historic museums.

Long Island’s rise to national prominence is reflected at Sagamore Hill in Oyster Bay, built between 1884 and 1885 for Theodore Roosevelt. The Queen Annestyle home served as both his family residence and Summer White House, where policy and diplomacy shaped the Progressive Era. Today, it remains a National Historic Site and one of the country’s most significant presidential homes.

The growth of suburban Long Island is traced to Pearsall’s Corners, later Lynbrook, where a 19th-century crossroads centered on the Pearsall family store evolved into a stagecoach and railroad hub. With the arrival of the South Side Railroad, the community expanded rapidly and adopted the name Lynbrook in 1894, marking its transformation from rural hamlet to suburban village.

In Massapequa, the Delancey FloydJones Free Library, built in 1896, became the community’s first public library and remained its only one for more than 50 years. Now preserved within the Massapequa Historical Society Historic Complex, it reflects the rise

of civic institutions across Long Island.

On the South Shore, Long Beach reflects early 20th-century coastal planning. The home at 226 W. Penn Street, built in 1909 as part of William H. Reynolds’ resort vision, is one of the city’s earliest surviving structures. Now the Long Beach Historical Museum, it preserves the story of a barrier island community that grew from seasonal destination to year-round city.

The North Shore Historical Museum in Glen Cove occupies the former 1907 Justices Court Building, a State and National Register landmark that preserves the legacy of the Gold Coast era. In nearby Sea Cliff, the Village Museum—founded in 1979 and housed in a former Methodist church—continues that preservation effort through extensive archives of photographs, artifacts, and village records.

In Freeport, history spans multiple eras. A historic marker at Babylon Turnpike and Lakeview Avenue commemorates Washington’s passage through Long Island during his 1790 tour, linking the village to the nation’s earliest years. Nearby, the World War II memorial honors local service members who fought in the nation’s defining 20thcentury conflict, while the Vietnam War memorial stone at the Freeport Memorial Library stands as a tribute to those who gave their lives in service.

As America approaches its 250th anniversary, these landmarks underscore a simple truth: history is not confined to textbooks. It continues to live in the buildings, streets, and communities that shaped Long Island — and helped

shape the nation itself.

Photo 1 - Sagtikos Manor in Bay Shore, built around 1697, stands as one of Suffolk County’s oldest surviving homes and a rare link to Long Island’s colonial, Revolutionary War, and early presidential history.

Brian Kacharaba/Herald

Photo 2 - The World War II memorial plaque in Freeport honors residents who served and sacrificed during the conflict.

Layla Eason/Herald

Photo 3 - Sagamore Hill in Oyster Bay, the longtime home of President Theodore Roosevelt, reflects Long Island’s role in American leadership history and served as his residence and “Summer White House” during his presidency.

Library of Congress Prints and Photographs

Photo 4 - A historic marker at Babylon Turnpike and Lakeview Avenue in Freeport commemorates President George Washington’s passage through the area during his 1790 tour of Long Island.

Layla Eason/Herald

Photo 5 - The Old Grace Church in Massapequa traces its roots to 1844, where community members gathered to establish an Episcopal church closer to home rather than traveling to Hempstead for worship.

Alyssa R. Griffin/Herald

Photo 6 - Built in 1882, the Victorian home now housing the Phillips House Museum was once owned by sea captain and village founder James Phillips, whose family played a key role in the early development of Rockville Centre as a growing center of commerce and banking.

Alyssa R. Griffin/Herald

LeaH Ramai (HunteR)

By Leah Ramai (Hunter) Sewanhaka High School freshman

AReader, three centuries is a long time.

ridiculous amount of possibilities could generally happen. Robots mating and artificial intelligence becoming the structure of everything.

America at 300. It’s long enough for your name to become dust. Long enough for every person you have ever loved to disappear. Long enough for your bedroom to become a room nobody remembers belonged to you. Long enough for the sound of your laughter to vanish from the earth entirely.

And perhaps, before you continue reading, I ask something of you. Look at your mother. Look at the shine in her eyes. The bliss, the warmth in her hugs. Look at your father. His tired eyes of making income and he doesn’t get a minute to himself. Not as parents. Not as permanent figures suspended safely in the background of your life. Look at them as people. As living things, imagine the lines of their faces softened by time until even memory struggles to hold them together. Imagine the sound of their voices becoming some-

AMERICA America at its 300th anniversary

thing distant. Imagine reaching for a memory and discovering it has begun to fade. That it simply doesn’t exist anymore. Where do these memories go? Certainly not in the future. Horrifying, isn’t it? Yet this is not fantasy. This is not horror fiction. This is reality moving exactly as it always has, because time does not wait for anyone whatsoever.

When people speak of America 300 years from now, they speak of progress. They speak of technology, discovery, innovation, and futures polished bright enough to distract themselves from the darkness beneath them. The good and positives. Yet I find myself haunted by something far quieter. Far more patient. The casualties time leaves behind.

How many voices will history never bother to remember? How many political figures will be jacks of spades in newspapers and magazines. How many poets will spend entire lifetimes filling notebooks only for their words to disappear without ceremony?

How many artists will devote themselves to beauty only for time to consume their work without even acknowledging it existed? Somewhere tonight, a child is creating something absolutely extraordinary. Somewhere, a story capable of changing a life is being written for the very first time. And somewhere else, another story dies before it is ever born. Reader that should terrify you. Not because it is unlikely. Because it is ordinary for dreams to never be pursued.

That is what makes humanity sacred. Not permanence. Not survival. Not the illusion that anything was

ever promised forever. If life stretched endlessly before us, love would become weightless. If grief did not exist, devotion would mean nothing. If death never arrived, neither would urgency, nor wonder, nor the desperate and beautiful need to create something before time steals the opportunity away.

It isn’t the fear of leaving, but leaving behind something utterly unfathomable, Humanity. Edgar Allan Poe understood this. Mary Shelley understood this. Beneath every graveyard, every ghost, every monster stitched together from pieces of the dead, there lingers the same unbearable realization. Existence is precious because it ends.

America, 300 years from now, will not be measured by what it builds. It will be measured by what it remembers. By whether someone still believes stories matter. By whether a child still stays awake long after midnight scribbling poems in a notebook because their heart feels too large for silence, deeply madly in love. Love, will you still feel the same flutter in your heart.

It’s chronically insane, isn’t it reader? To have to ask if a feeling would still sit in your anatomy because of how the world can change. By whether humanity still possesses the courage to create despite knowing everything eventually disappears. Knowing you have a purpose, but genuinely? It will end one day. Because the greatest horror has never been death. It has always been reaching the end of a life without leaving behind proof that you were here at all.

Look into the future

AMERICA

YBy JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

It is nearly impossible to discuss American literary history without mentioning Walt Whitman. Often called “America’s poet,” Whitman left a lasting mark as a writer, journalist and teacher, with a legacy deeply woven into both the nation’s history and Long Island’s own.

Born in what is now Huntington Station in 1819, Whitman came from a family whose Long Island roots stretched back to the 17th century. Though the family moved to Brooklyn when he was young, the island remained part of his foundation. His formal schooling ended at 11, but his education continued in print shops, newsrooms and city streets, where he developed a lifelong appetite for language, politics and the lives of ordinary people.

ou cannot really understand America... without ‘Leaves of Grass.’

MARY BERENsON

Art historian

As a teenager and young adult, Whitman worked as a printer, teacher and journalist across Long Island and New York City. When he returned to Huntington, he founded The Long-Islander, a local newspaper that is still being published. His formative years placed Whitman in close contact with people from every corner of American life: laborers, commuters, families, readers, voters and strangers passing through the world around him. That broad human canvas helped shape the ideals that came to define his poetry — a sweeping appreciation for everyday Americans.

Whitman carried those influences into “Leaves of Grass,” the collection he first published in 1855 and continued revising until his death in 1892. What began as a slim, unconventional volume grew into a sweeping body of work that challenged literary traditions and helped redefine what American poetry could sound like.

Much of Whitman’s work opens a window onto everyday American life, but “Song of Myself” may be his most expansive expression of that vision. In it, the speaker stretches beyond the individual, seeing himself reflected in all people and all things — a voice that is deeply personal and collective.

The poem stands apart for its bold embrace of the body, its deep connection to the natural world and its insistence on elevating the ordinary individual.

“Born here of parents born here from parents the same, and their parents the same,”

Long Island’s own Walt Whitman helped give America its voice

Courtesy Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, Gottscho-Schleisner Collection [LC-USZC2-4855]

Walt Whitman, one of America’s most renowned poets, taught at a summer school in Woodbury in 1840. The school building, erected in 1807, was acquired by Alexander M. White around 1927, who moved it to his estate in Oyster Bay Cove. The desk from the schoolhouse once used by Whitman is now at his birthplace, a historic site, in Huntington Station.

Whitman writes — a line that captures the layered, generational nature of belonging. It suggests how roots are formed not only through family, but through the places people claim as home. For Whitman, one of those places was Long Island.

Today, the Walt Whitman Birthplace Association maintains the New York state historic site Whitman was born in. Open to the public for tours, the home provides Long Islanders with insight into his early childhood, which influenced his work. Tours run daily in the summertime, and between Wednesdays and Sundays after Labor Day.

On the grounds of his original home is also an Interpretive Center, which opened in 1997, further allowing the birthplace association to build a tourist destination and regional hub for arts and literature, that offers unique, interdisciplinary programs.

“You cannot really understand America without Walt Whitman, without ‘Leaves of Grass’…” art historian Mary Berenson once wrote of the work, according to Whitman’s profile on Goodreads, a networking site for readers. “He has expressed that civilization, ‘up to date,’ as he would say, and no student of the philosophy of history can do without him.”

STEPPING OUT

Photos courtesy LICM

Young artists created colorful works during last summer’s ArtVentures. This year, the program is expanded into four categories and families can enjoy similar creative experiences.

Bright colors and creative techniques come together in the watercolor project, one of the hands-on activities Kids can experiment how colors react to elements, and other colors.

More than art

Cool off with an ‘Artventure’

By Stacy Driks

Long Island Children’s Museum invites families to put down the screens this summer, pick up a paintbrush and discover the many ways to create art.

With the launch of Summer ArtVentures [July 7], the museum expands its arts programming into a season-long celebration of imagination, hands-on learning and creative exploration four days a week.

Whether it’s experimenting with watercolor, building collages, sculpting with clay or creating artwork inspired by professionals, every visit offers something new.

The lineup grew from a pilot series the museum introduced last summer. After seeing children return week after week and hearing families ask for more opportunities to create, museum educators decided it was time to think bigger.

“We had such a positive reaction, people were asking if we could do them on other days and if we could offer more arts programming,” says Jeanmarie Walsh Mansfield, the museum’s director of visual arts and community initiatives. ”We found families kept coming back, and kids were building on what they learned from one week to the next.”

That enthusiasm inspired a full calendar of art experiences running throughout July and August, with activities designed to appeal to toddlers, schoolage children, teens and even adults.

Unlike traditional art classes, participants aren’t divided by age. Instead, everyone creates together in the same space, allowing each person to work at a level that’s comfortable while learning from one another.

“It’s sort of like an old-school classroom,” Mansfield says. “Kids of all ages learn with and from each other.”

Each Tuesday, the museum hosts Imagine That! Summer ArtVentures Workshops, where participants explore a different artistic medium or technique. One week may focus on collage, while another introduces mosaics, sculpture or animation. Before children begin creating, participants are introduced to artists whose work connects to that week’s project.

Some come from centuries ago, like Italian painter Giuseppe Arcimboldo, whose portraits famously transformed fruits, vegetables and other everyday objects into imaginative faces. Others are contemporary artists such as Octavio Ocampo, whose optical illusion paintings encourage viewers to look beyond first impressions.

Fireworks with the South Shore Symphony

“I want kids to learn that art can be much more than they think art is,” Mansfield says. “Art can be everywhere and made from anything. All you need is your creativity, your imagination and a willingness to experiment.”

Fridays offer Watercolor Wonder Pop-Ups, rotating through different galleries with new watercolor techniques and themes each week. One session explores the effects of salt on watercolor paint, while another teaches children how oil pastels and watercolor interact to create surprising results. Other activities draw inspiration from nature, encouraging families to experiment with flowers, color and texture.

What program is best for you?

• Tuesday: Imagine That ArtVentures workshops run from July 7 to Aug. 25, 1-3 p.m. Fee: $4 for children three and up.

• Friday: Watercolor Pop-Up run from July 10 to Aug. 28, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Free with museum admission.

• Saturday: Amethyst Playground Pop-Up runs from July 11 to Aug. 1, noon-2 p.m. Free with museum admission.

• Monday: Squish Studio runs from July 27 to July 31, 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. Free with museum admission.

Still craving more fireworks? Rockville Centre’s annual celebration is just the ticket! Head to Pette and Barasch Fields for a festive evening with the South Shore Symphony, capped off by a spectacular Grucci fireworks display. It’s a beloved summertime tradition that brings together everyone for a rousing spectacle. Music Director Adam Glaser passes the baton to conductor Eileen Murphy who leads the orchestra in a program of Broadway hits, movie themes, pop hits, and patriotic standards. Selections include American Salute by Morton Gould, Suite from Hamilton by Lin-Manuel Miranda, RimskyKorsakov’s Procession of Nobles, Sousa’s Washington Post March and John William’s Raiders March. The orchestra begins performing at 7:30 p.m., the fireworks begin at 9:15 and the orchestra continues after. Hosted by the Village of Rockville Centre and the Rockville Centre Guild for the Arts, this free event has been a favorite for more than 30 years. Admission is free and is open to everyone. Rain date is July 12.

Hope shows her art project inspired by Kelly Olshan’s “Amethyst Playground” exhibit.

On Saturdays, Amethyst Playground Pop-Up connects directly to the current Artists’ Corner exhibition by Kelly Olshan. Families transform leftover materials from the artist’s creative process into colorful magnets, demonstrating how everyday objects can become works of art.

For children who love getting their hands dirty, Squish Studio, running July 27 through 31, offers an entire week devoted to clay. Young artists can experiment with different tools, create personal sculptures and contribute to a collaborative creature that grows throughout the week.

Clay holds a special place for Mansfield.

“I’ve been wanting to do clay-based workshops for a long time,” she says. “Kids really respond to it. It’s intuitive, it’s hands-on, and it helps develop fine motor skills while encouraging creativity.”

But the aim is for visitors leave with more than artwork to hang on the refrigerator.

Creating art helps children build confidence, develop criticalthinking skills and become more comfortable taking creative risks, Mansfield explains. Working alongside others also teaches collaboration, communication and problem-solving.

“Art making reduces anxiety,” she says. “It can be meditative. We know screens can increase anxiety, but when children are creating with their hands, they’re engaged, they’re present and they’re learning.”

Perhaps most importantly, art teaches children that mistakes aren’t something to fear.

“You fail sometimes,” Mansfield says. “You make something and it doesn’t come out the way you wanted. That’s an important life skill — mistakes are learning opportunities and that you can pivot and try something different.”

And the experience sparks curiosity. Rather than providing step-by-step instructions with one “correct” outcome, educators encourage children to ask questions, explore materials and decide for themselves what they want to create.

“There’s no wrong way to make art,” Mansfield says. “I want kids to push their boundaries and realize they’re artists.”

And this is only the beginning.

Museum leadership plans to further expand programming beyond the summer, with additional workshops during school breaks and perhaps a future art festival that celebrates creativity throughout the museum.

Until then, paint, sculpt, squish and create all summer — one colorful adventure at a time.

For schedules, admission and registration information, visit licm.org.

Saturday, July 11, 7 p.m. Pette and Barasch Fields, 244 S. Park Ave, Rockville Centre. For more information, visit.rvcny.us.

The Bronx Wanderers

What do you get when a father, his two sons, and two high school classmates come together to create a show? A wildly entertaining mix of hilarious personal stories, a powerhouse playlist spanning every genre and decade, and one unforgettable family’s journey through life and music. Meet The Bronx Wanderers — a high-energy musical experience that’s been bringing audiences to their feet for over 20 years. With a unique blend of rock ‘n’ roll nostalgia, modern hits, and dynamic storytelling, this band has mastered the art of connecting with fans of all ages in one sweeping, musical tour de force. They’re still having the time of their lives — and by the end of the show, you will be too. Sunday, July 12,7:30 p.m. Tickets

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

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Lights, camera, Long Island!

The Long Island International Film Expo continues, bringing independent cinema from around the globe to local audiences. The diverse lineup includes documentaries, feature films, shorts, horror films, music videos and late-night screenings for mature audiences, along with workshops and more. Notable selections include “The Random Guest,” the final film featuring actor Peter Greene.

• Where: Bellmore Movies & Showplace, 222 PettitAve.,Bellmore

• Time: Varied, through July 16

• Contact: For a complete schedule and tickets, visit LIIFE2026.eventive.org

Annual Cruise Nights & Summer Car Shows

Lynbrook Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual Summer Car Shows every Thursday evening along Atlantic Avenue. Check out the classic, vintage and modern cars, entertainment and food and drinks available from local bars and restaurants. Residents and visitors are invited to bring family and friends to enjoy the weekly showcase of vehicles and entertainment in downtown Lynbrook.

• Where: Atlantic Avenue between Stauderman and Merrick Road

• Time: Ongoing Thursdays, 6-9 p.m., through Aug. 27

• Contact: lynbrookusa.com

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‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’

Wild Child

• Where: Elmont Memorial Library, 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont

• Time: 2:30 p.m.

• Contact: PlazaTheatrical.com or call (516) 599-6870

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Lynbrook Village Board of Trustees meet

Residents are invited to attend the Lynbrook Village Board of Trustees meeting to hear updates on village business, public hearings and other municipal matters. Public comment opportunities are available.

• Where: 1 Columbus Drive, Lynbrook

• Time: 7 p.m.

This is not a typical tribute or pretend concert act. Wild Child relies on recapturing the original: sound, feel, mood, dynamics and delivery of the Doors music. In true Doors fashion there are no: wigs, props, costumes, or phony banter between songs. It’s about the music and its delivery. Wild Child lead singer Dave Brock’s Doors tribute debuted with a triple sellout at the Whisky a-Go-Go. Since the band debuted, the act has been touring and playing at sold out national act venues and festivals around the world. Wild Child became the mold that “tribute bands” aspired to become, as they flooded the market in the 1990s with good and bad impersonations of famous artists. In 2010 Ray Manzarek and Robby Krieger of The Doors, invited Dave to tour with them as their vocalist on their concert engagements. This was perhaps the best compliment Dave has ever received from anyone for his work. Being selected by these two Rock ’n Roll Hall of Fame musicians was a huge honor; the ultimate compliment of his talents and speaks volumes for his credibility as a Doors style frontman and vocalist. Fans and critics alike praise Wild Child performances as the closest thing to a real 1960s Doors concert and live Doors experience.

through Aug. 2

• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444

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Family theater

Disco grooves

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

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

• Contact: Lynbrook Village Hall at 516) 599-8300

jul

13 Summer Sensations with Risky Business

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St. Mary’s/Maris Stella Knights of Columbus hosts Summer Sensations featuring Risky Business. The evening includes food, drinks and entertainment for guests while supporting the local Knights of Columbus council, for $55 a person.

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The Madison Theatre’s production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” brings the beloved Andrew Lloyd Webber musical to the stage, retelling the biblical story of Joseph, his colorful coat and his rise from slavery to Pharaoh’s trusted advisor. Told entirely through song, the family-friendly production features memorable numbers including “Any Dream Will Do,” “Close Every Door” and “One More Angel in Heaven,” blending musical styles from calypso to country-western. Suitable for audiences of all ages, the show continues to be one of the world’s most frequently performed musicals.

• Where: Madison Theatre, Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre

• Time: Various dates and times, jul

Lance the Eagle welcomes families to “A SemiQuincenten-EAGLE Birthday” on the Long Island Children’s Museum stage. In this original production, families are invited to celebrate his birthday. His message: As the national bird, this party will be happening throughout the whole month of July. Come to think of it, I did hear something about a birthday for the United States of America as well. Hmm... must be a coincidence! I’ll be throwing a parade through LICM’s galleries and a celebratory spectacle in the Theater. Come ready to party!” Keep an eye out 30 minutes before each show for a special interactive pre-show! For ages 3+. $5 with museum admission ($4 members), $10 theater only.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; also July 15

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

Eisenhower Park’s Summer Concert Series continues with Disco Unlimited. When Sista Soul, Sparkle Sista, Joe Cool, Strat Cat Ricky Smooth and The MacDaddy, all hit the stage, you are instantly transported to a time when Saturday nights meant white suits, platform shoes and your very best dance moves. And dance you will – when you experience the magic created when the boogie begins.

• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov or (516) 572-0200

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2026 Summer Sing

Calling all singers! From experienced choral veterans to shower singers with a taste for the classics, all are welcome at Long Island Choral Society’s sing-in happening. The repertoire includes Faure Requiem and assorted choral works to honor America. Summer Sing is an opportunity for people who love to sing, love choral music or both to get together with

like-minded individuals and sing some great musical compositions. It’s not a performance. There aren’t any rehearsals. There’s no audience. We just sing for our own enjoyment. Don’t worry if you don’t know all the notes. The point is not perfection, it is to have fun. Bring your own musical score or borrow one. $10 donation.

• Where: Garden City Community Church, 245 Stewart Ave., Garden City

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: LICS.org

The World Goes Round: Songs of Kander & Ebb

Filled with humor, romance, drama and nonstop melody, Plaza Theatrical stages a thrilling celebration of life and the fighting spirit that keeps us all going. Five individuals find themselves careening through the world of love, babies and coffee. From Cabaret to Chicago, the nonstop hit parade features unforgettable gems, including “Mr. Cellophane,” “Maybe This Time,” “Cabaret” and “New York, New York,” seamlessly woven into a passionate, harmonious, up-tempo performance of musical theater.

• Where: 78 Hempstead Ave., Lynbrook

• Time: 7-11 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 887-2228 or grandknight@lynbrookkofc. com

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.

Lynbrook BOE recognizes students, staff

The Lynbrook Board of Education recognized students, staff members and community leaders during its monthly meeting, celebrating academic achievement, civic engagement and years of service across the district.

Among the June 10 meeting’s highlights were the winners of the district’s 250th Anniversary Freedom Trail essay contest. The contest was tied to the community Freedom Trail, created by Lynbrook High School students in partnership with the Village of Lynbrook. The self-guided trail stretches from North Middle School to South Middle School, with QR code markers sharing both Lynbrook’s local history and significant events from the American Revolution. Students who completed essays about the experience were entered into a raffle, with winners receiving commemorative T-shirts and gift cards.

The board also recognized several students for honors earned outside the district. Liam Jerie received the Long Island Association of Special Education Administrators’ Student of the Year Award, while Emily Grisales earned the Pathways to Independence Award and Christopher Addona received the Andrew J. Luft Memorial Award. Students Sienna Mainhart, Gisele Louis and Sylvia Sullivan were also honored after receiving recognition from the National Council of Teachers of English for their creative writing.

Marion Street School students Chloe Maklin, Liam Singleton and Mia Antanucci were recognized for helping create a respectful and inclusive school community. Maklin also received the Cynthia Marks Legacy Award.

Members of the Horizon staff introduced the latest edition of the Horizon Junior publication, featuring writing and artwork created by elementary students throughout the district.

Lynbrook High School science teacher Chuck Vessali-

co was recognized for receiving the Encouraging Educator Award from the Long Island Science Congress. Social studies teacher Nicole DiBenedetto was also acknowledged for leading the district’s participation in the NYSUT Civic Readiness Grant, which will allow students to participate in a hands-on election experience during future student government elections.

Trustees thanked outgoing board member Patrick Palleschi for his years of service. Student ex officio board member Jackson Bowler delivered his final report before introducing James Pisano, who was selected through a multi-step application and interview process

to serve as next year’s student representative.

The meeting concluded with the introduction of new staff members and recognition of 18 employees who recently earned tenure. Those honored were Jodi Abrams, Jenine Andrews, Risa Applebaum-Goldman, Lauren Behan, Michelle Chang, Errol Dusman, Marianne Healy, Taylor Heedles, Alexandra Kaplan, Michael King, Mai Kobayashi, Jennifer Liguori, Alanna Loftus, Marissa Palmeri, Joel Press, Shay Rachman, Michele Regan and Veronica Underhill.

July 9, 2026

East Rockaway seniors awarded $51,000

East Rockaway High School’s Class of 2026 was recognized for its academic achievements and future plans during Senior Awards Night on June 15. Held in the high school auditorium, the annual ceremony honored graduating seniors with scholarships and awards presented by faculty, staff and representatives of local organizations and memorial funds. Director of Guidance John Madden hosted the evening, as presenters recognized students for their accomplishments, leadership and contributions throughout their high school careers.

By the conclusion of the ceremony, more than $51,000 in scholarships had been awarded to members of the Class of 2026 through the generosity of community organizations, foundations and memorial scholarships.

Family members and friends filled the auditorium to celebrate the graduates ahead of commencement, which was scheduled for the following week. Organizers closed the evening by reminding students that they will always remain part of the East Rockaway school community with the message, “Once a Rock, always a Rock. Now go out and make us proud.”

More than $51,000 in scholarships and awards were presented to East Rockaway High School seniors during the annual Senior Awards Night on June 15. Faculty, community organizations and memorial

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU

U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST WILLIAM G. BREVAIRE, Defendant(s) Pursuant

to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered January 9, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on July 22, 2026 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 76 Driving Park Avenue, Lynbrook, NY 11563. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Lynbrook, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 38 Block 54 Lots 12 and 112. Approximate amount of judgment

$698,018.56 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #605725/2023. John Boklak, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-003337 90189 160753

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers.

Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience.

Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

EDITOR/REPORTER

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

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City.

We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT

Inside Sales

Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $35,360 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

Operations/ Office Coordinator Full-Time. Cedarhurst. $25–$30/hour. Seeking person with strong communication, organizational, computer skills. Resume: info@purebitessnacks.com

OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $35,360 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours

Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250

PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS

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

Eldercare Offered

Contemporary Coastal Living

Apartments For Rent

Real Estate

WE BUY HOUSES for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-888-704-5670

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What to do about cracking concrete

Q. We have large cracks in our concrete driveway and garage floor, and want to make sure they are repaired correctly, since they appear to be recently done, possibly within a year before we purchased the house. In particular, there is a nearly round hole that turned to gravel, kind of, and we want to know why it happened and avoid having it happen again. What can you tell us?

A. Concrete reacts to extreme weather changes. That is a given to designers of concrete structures, even though most people think concrete is the “immovable object.”

Nature moves mountains, so your driveway was no challenge for the forces of nature.

Extreme cold causes concrete to contract, push in on itself, while the heat has the effect of stretching this fairly rigid material to its limits. In the heat of summer, as you may have heard, the beautifully engineered Autobahn in Germany just buckled in various places. I’ve seen cars going nearly 200 miles per hour on that roadway, but with a buckled road, sections were shut down.

The key to any material selection is understanding its reaction to two major factors in nature, namely, water and movement. Throw in other factors, like chemical reaction and deterioration rates, and you realize that concrete is vulnerable. You have to work with its basic properties to have it adapt and cooperate with your intended use.

All that being said, the hole is basically like a zit, a buildup of pressure in a weaker place across the surface. Concrete develops strength as a chemical reaction to the specific combination of materials it is made from. With too much water in the mix, it will be weaker, especially in a particular spot. If it has no way to expand over a large area, as a thin sheet, only 4 to 6 inches thick over 10 to 20 feet, its strength is reduced because of a strengthto-distance ratio. So, to relieve the intensity of the expansion or contraction, separations, or “joints,” are made so the slabs can spread the forces of shrinking or expanding, a little.

Concrete is known to be very strong in compression, meaning you can press it together, to an extreme, before it crushes. On the other hand, it has very little ability to resist being stretched or pulled apart. To counteract the problem, steel, which is very elastic (stretchable) is spaced within formed concrete to increase the resistance to cracking apart. The combination of steel, in the right ratio and strength, and expansion joints, to let the concrete separate without unsightly cracks, makes the concrete more stable. Even just a depressed joint, not through and through, helps, by basically letting the concrete crack in a controlled way, where the crack runs in a straight depression instead of looking like a big rip.

I recommend having a professional make the repairs, with caution. You want an experienced company that works from a calculated solution, not just a quick fix. More next week. Good luck!

© 2026 Monte Leeper

Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

9,

Stuff HERALD

FINDS UNDER $100

Garage Sales

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Miscellaneous For Sale

ARTWORK BY LI PAINTER/ SCULPTOR

Richard Lithgow. Four Sculptures Including A 16" Bust Of The Italian Composer Giuseppe Verdi, An 8" Bust of The Philosopher F. Nietzsche, A 21" Standing Figure Of A London Newsboy, More Than A Dozen Paintings All Framed. Transactions In Cash. Call Joe 516-289-3105

Finds Under $100

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BOAT OARS, ALUMINUM. 8.5' $50. Extra large and medium life vests $20 each. Text 516-647-1999.

SERVICES

Appliance Srvc./Repair

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All Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas. Services/Repairs. Violations Removed. Free Estimates Low Rates. 516-785-0646 Lic/Ins.

Home Improvement

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Home Improvement

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Even liberals are being attacked for supporting Israel

Most Long Islanders believe antisemitism is somebody else’s problem. We watch what’s happening in New York City and tell ourselves it can’t happen here.

We watch Democratic Socialists take control of the conversation. We watch politicians refuse to condemn chants like “Globalize the intifada!” We see Jewish students harassed on college campuses. We watch antiIsrael mobs shut down streets, disrupt public events and intimidate anyone who dares support the Jewish state. We watch elected officials excuse it, justify it or pretend not to see it.

And we tell ourselves, that’s Manhattan. That’s Brooklyn. That’s somebody else’s problem. It isn’t.

And if you’re not Jewish, you may be tempted to think this has nothing to do with you. It does.

Because history teaches us the same lesson over and over again: It always starts with the Jews, but it never ends with the Jews. As the son of a Holocaust survivor and as a Long Islander of Italian descent,

I understand that lesson all too well.

A couple of weeks ago, New Yorkers witnessed another warning sign. A liberal Jewish Democratic congressman walked into a coffee shop in Brooklyn with his 7-year-old daughter. Not a Republican. Not a conservative. Not someone from the political right. It was Rep. Dan Goldman, one of the most liberal members of Congress.

LThe coffee shop publicly posted surveillance photos of Goldman online, labeled him a “genocide enabler,” refunded his money and told him he was no longer welcome. Days later, his congressional office was vandalized with antiIsrael graffiti.

al members of Congress. Yet he was publicly humiliated, ostracized and targeted anyway.

And he’s not alone. The political left keeps moving further and further left. Yesterday’s progressives become today’s moderates. Today’s moderates become tomorrow’s enemies.

iberal U.S. Rep. Dan

Goldman was targeted for being a ‘genocide enabler.’

Think about that. Goldman didn’t become a Republican. He didn’t move to the right. He didn’t abandon progressive causes. Yet even someone as liberal as Goldman wasn’t liberal enough. That’s the point.

For years, many Jewish Democrats persuaded themselves that their politics would protect them. They believed that because they supported progressive causes, those same movements would stand with them.

They were wrong. Goldman isn’t a conservative who wandered into the wrong crowd. He’s one of the most liber-

Imagine spending your entire political career supporting progressive causes only to discover that supporting Israel is enough to get you cast out. Imagine being one of the most liberal members of Congress and still being treated as the enemy. That’s where we are today.

Some people will say that there are extremists on both sides. No. There are bad people everywhere, but let’s stop pretending that the Democratic Party doesn’t have a serious problem. This is the party that once fought to preserve slavery. The party of segregation. The party of the Dixiecrats.

We recently celebrated Juneteenth, commemorating the end of slavery in America. The historical reality is that Republicans fought to end slavery while Democrats fought to preserve it. History matters. Political parties can lose their way. And today’s Democratic Party has increasingly become a home for people who excuse, rationalize and remain

silent in the face of antisemitism. My message isn’t just to Jews. My message is to everyone. Stop voting for people who are helping normalize this. Stop pretending that antisemitism is acceptable as long as it comes wrapped in the language of activism. Stop believing that political labels matter more than reality.

And to my fellow Jews who continue supporting politicians and movements that tolerate anti-Israel extremism, I ask you to honestly look at what is happening. The people who targeted Dan Goldman don’t care how he voted. They don’t care how progressive he is. They don’t care how loyal he has been. All they see is a Jew who supports Israel.

The warning signs are no longer subtle. And Long Island should be paying attention. Many people still believe this hatred stops at the city line. It doesn’t. Ideas travel. Movements spread. What begins in Brooklyn today can arrive in Nassau County tomorrow.

Every generation asks how ordinary people failed to recognize the warning signs. The answer is always the same. They convinced themselves it couldn’t happen where they lived.

Long Island shouldn’t make the same mistake. Even liberal Dan Goldman wasn’t liberal enough. Long Island should pay attention.

Ari Brown represents the 20th Assembly District.

Biofuels can help decarbonize L.I.’s school bus fleet

As the deadline for school districts to begin purchasing zero-emission school buses loomed, state lawmakers rightfully hit the brakes by delaying the mandate for five years.

The reasons are as clear as they are daunting: the electric grid isn’t ready, charging infrastructure remains scarce compared with ambitious state targets, and the upfront cost of a single electric bus can be triple that of a traditional one.

For Long Island school districts already grappling with a high tax burden and unique costof-living challenges, this represents yet another significant financial strain that would fall squarely on local taxpayers.

State leaders should be lauded for recognizing these realities. But as officials continue to debate these and other changes to the state’s climate law, we can’t fall into an either-or trap, just as we can’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good.

New York already has a solution that has been in use for decades, and is easily deployed: renewable liquid fuels.

Transitioning the existing school bus fleets to renewable diesel can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 86 percent immediately. Unlike electric buses, which require specialized chargers and rely on our dangerously thin electric grid, renewable diesel works in the engines we already own. It requires no costly equipment overhauls, no new infrastructure, and performs reliably in cold New York winters.

Rfrom entering our air annually. Officials aim to complete the conversion of all city-owned vehicles this summer.

New York became the first state in the Northeast to offer the fuel to state agencies, authorities, schools, municipalities and nonprofits in 26 counties, including Nassau and Suffolk. Still, too few are availing themselves of this resource.

e newable diesel fuel works in the

school bus engines we already own.

While the state waits years for the grid to catch up, municipal leaders are already proving that renewable liquid fuels — biodegradable fuel manufactured domestically from vegetable oils, animal fats and recycled restaurant grease — can deliver significantly carbon reduction today without breaking the bank.

New York City is leading the way, having transitioned its fleet of garbage trucks, emergency vehicles and other heavy-duty machines to renewable diesel in 2024, a move expected to prevent 162 million pounds of carbon dioxide

And while much of today’s conversation centers on delays in transportation electrification, concerns about the pace and practicality of electrification are also growing in the homes and buildings sectors, as well as budget-strapped public facilities — especially our schools.

Consider a high school in Brooklyn where administrators recently replaced traditional heating oil with the renewable fuel alternative, making it the first school in New York City to convert to a heating system running entirely on biofuels. This historic transition to cleaner renewable fuels proves that giving schools and other institutions the flexibility they need to adopt a range of clean-energy solutions — not just electrification — is how the

state can continue to make meaningful climate progress while keeping energy reliable and at a manageable price point.

This common-sense approach is what New Yorkers are demanding as they navigate a punishing economy. With affordability continuing to be top of mind and the state grid operator warning of a razor-thin reliability margin that leaves Long Island particularly vulnerable to blackouts, a pragmatic, costeffective approach to making environmental progress today is the smart approach for the region’s school districts and the taxpayers and families who support them.

The debate in Albany often presents a false choice between a costly mandate and a climate delay. But a true all-of-theabove approach to energy options being advanced by Gov. Kathy Hochul and some legislators can find an effective middle ground when the right tools are brought into the mix.

The grid will catch up eventually, but our environment and hardworking Long Islanders can’t afford to wait. It’s time to choose the solutions that work today.

Rocco J. Lacertosa is CEO of the Hauppauge-based New York State Energy Coalition.

HERALD

Investing in libraries pays dividends all year

Summer has a way of reminding us about the simple pleasures in life. For many, that means relaxing on the beach with a good book, spending time with family or finding fun ways to stay cool during the hottest days of the year.

But while a great novel may be the perfect beach companion, the local public library offers so much more than books. It is one of the smartest and most valuable investments any community can make.

Libraries have evolved far beyond quiet reading rooms lined with shelves full of books. They are vibrant community centers that welcome residents of every age and every background. They’re places where curiosity is encouraged, lifelong learning is celebrated and neighbors come together at author readings, musical performances and movie screenings.

Summer is one of the busiest times of the year for libraries. Children who might otherwise lose valuable academic skills during the school break can take part in summer reading programs intended to keep their minds engaged while making learning fun.

Teens can explore new interests through workshops, volunteer opportunities and technology programs. Adults can attend lectures, careerdevelopment seminars, financial-literacy classes and cultural events. Seniors can take part in social gatherings, edu-

letterS

Scott’s column should be required college reading

To the Editor:

Re Robert A. Scott’s column, “What it means to be a college graduate,” in the June 24-30 issue: At a time when some are questioning the value of a college education, Dr. Scott offers a thoughtful perspective on this important issue. Drawing on his own experiences at Bucknell University as well as research that demonstrates the many positive outcomes of college, he makes a strong case for post-secondary education. At its best, Scott notes, college can not only improve students’ writing and speaking skills and boost graduates’ earning power, but also foster personal growth and enhance one’s outlook on the world. “College is, or should be,” he writes, “as much about character development and active citizenship as it is about preparation for careers and advancement in commerce.”

cational presentations and wellness activities that help combat isolation while strengthening community connections.

Libraries are free public spaces open to everyone. They provide safe, air-conditioned environments in which families can spend time together, students can study, remote workers can focus and anyone can simply enjoy a quiet place to read, learn or reflect.

These services don’t disappear when summer ends. Throughout the year, libraries host civic meetings, support groups, educational workshops, cultural performances, technology training, tax-preparation assistance, job search resources and countless other programs that strengthen the social fabric of our communities. They serve as gathering places where ideas are exchanged, friendships are formed and local organizations find a home.

Elected officials deserve recognition when they prioritize funding for public libraries. Public investments often bring to mind roads, bridges or major construction projects, and those investments certainly matter. But investments in libraries produce returns that cannot always be measured in dollars. Whether funding is for the renovation of a community room to expand programs and services or a much larger capital project that overhauls the entire building, libraries aim to improve educational outcomes, encour-

age civic engagement, reduce social isolation, create stronger, more connected communities, and make their facilities more welcoming, accessible and functional for everyone who walks through their doors.

These projects also reflect a broader truth: Investments in libraries are investments in people. Every renovated classroom, meeting space or children’s area creates opportunities for learning, connection and growth that extend well beyond the life of the construction project itself.

At a time when many people worry about loneliness, educational gaps and divisions in society, libraries quietly address each of those challenges every day. They remain one of the few places where everyone is welcome, regardless of age, income or background, and where the only requirement for entry is a willingness to learn.

As summer unfolds, residents should take full advantage of everything their local libraries have to offer. Borrow that next beach read. Sign a child up for a reading challenge. Attend a lecture, explore a new hobby, join a community group or simply spend an afternoon discovering something new.

Every library card opened, every book borrowed and every program attended is a reminder that one of the greatest investments we can make is in institutions that educate, inspire and bring us together.

New York deserved better from this legislative session

The 2026 legislative session may be over, but the problems Albany left unresolved are still staring New Yorkers in the face.

lies, seniors and small businesses to stay in New York.

autopilot.

This year the Legislature made history for all the wrong reasons. Families needed real relief from rising costs, a stronger focus on public safety and a government that understands how expensive it is to live and work in this state. Instead, Albany delivered the latest budget in 16 years, the largest spending plan ever and another clear sign that one-party control is failing the people who are paying the bills.

Every legislative session reveals what Albany truly values. With families across New York struggling with rising expenses, public safety concerns and a state that continues to become less affordable, they deserve a Legislature focused on the issues affecting their daily lives. Instead, Gov. Kathy Hochul and the legislative majorities used another year of one-party control to advance the same misplaced priorities that have made it harder for fami-

LeTTers

The clearest example was the state budget. Despite one-party control of the Senate, Assembly and governor’s mansion, a budget deal wasn’t reached until 57 days after the April 1 deadline. After all that extra time, New Yorkers still didn’t get a clear accounting of what they were being asked to fund. Last year’s budget totaled $254 billion, and this year it’s $277 billion. That isn’t fiscal discipline, nor is it transparency. Rather, it is record-breaking spending, while New Yorkers are still waiting for the relief Albany promised.

The clearest example was the bloated state budget, which was 57 days late.

Instead of strengthening the state’s Medicaid program and ensuring that every dollar is being used for its intended purpose, to help New Yorkers in need, the state continues to simply throw more money at the $124 billion program. Medicaid is a lifeline for seniors, people with disabilities and families who really need care. That is precisely why it must be safeguarded from fraud, waste and abuse. I have repeatedly called for a comprehensive audit so taxpayers know where the money is going and resources are preserved for those who depend on them. A program this large shouldn’t run on

Scott’s column should be required reading for every new college student, especially those entering with the misguided notion that college is little more than a quick ticket to a job. While finding a career that’s a good fit should certainly be part of everyone’s college years, students should also use this time to learn about themselves, to engage ideas, to come to grips with life’s complexities, and to develop a deeper understanding of the world that’s waiting for them after graduation.

Colleges themselves would also do well to pay attention to Scott’s advice. Too many schools present themselves as career factories, highlighting their programs’ “real world” skill development while paying only minimal attention to the transformative experiences that a college education can (and should) provide. Graduating thoughtful, knowledgeable and insightful human beings — people capable of seeing life’s big picture and acting on behalf of the greater good — should be a primary goal of higher education.

Given the cost of college, as well as our collective anxiety about the future of America’s workforce, I can understand many students’ wish to choose a major that will help them make their way. But preparing for a career needn’t preclude being open to activities and experiences, both in and out of the classroom, that will invite students to stretch intellectually, socially and emotionally. There are indeed many valuable lessons to be learned here; students should not miss out on them.

At the same time, Albany apparently had less money for the volunteer firefighters who answer the call in our communities every day. The V-FIRE program helps departments invest in equipment, facility upgrades and lifesaving infrastructure. Yet this year’s budget reduced that program by $5 million, even as departments across Long Island face rising costs and growing emergency-response needs. The very least Albany can do is make sure these volunteers have the funding they need. That’s why I’m cosponsoring bipartisan legislation to help ensure that fire departments receive their fair share of V-FIRE funding.

This same mismatch between Albany’s and New Yorkers’ priorities continued beyond the budget. While residents were asking for relief, the legislative majorities advanced a proposal to replace words like “mother” and “father” in sections of state law with terms such as “gestating parent” and “non-gestating parent.” My four children call me “Mom” every day. That word has meaning in my home, as it does for mothers and fathers across the state. Why does Albany keep finding time for symbolic language changes

Framework by Tim Baker

while families are still waiting for action on the issues that truly affect their lives?

The same problem surfaced in redistricting. In 2014, New Yorkers voted for the Independent Redistricting Commission because they wanted a fairer, more transparent process. In 2021, they rejected changes that would have weakened it. This year, Albany Democrats went right back at it, advancing another constitutional amendment that would make it easier to redraw maps in the middle of the decade and give the Legislature more control when the commission doesn’t produce the maps it wants.

Voters should choose their representatives, not the other way around. This is a clear attempt by politicians to consolidate power, and it’s all the more insulting to New Yorkers that in the waning days of the 2026 legislative session, the majorities’ focus was on solving their own political problems rather than New Yorkers’ financial struggles.

Residents expect a budget that respects taxpayers, policies that make communities safer, and a Legislature focused on the problems that families are actually facing. I will keep fighting for a safer, more affordable New York, and for a state government that finally puts New Yorkers’ priorities first.

Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick represents the 9th State Senate District.

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