Lynbrook/East Rockaway Herald 08-14-2025

Driving for dough

Lynbrook’s annual Mayor’s Golf Outing on Monday raised funds for the Community Chest, while celebrating local leaders and activities.

Above, from left, were Alan Beach II; his father, Mayor Alan Beach; Jim Hunter; and village Trustee Michael Halbert. At right, Mayor Beach. Story, more photos, Page 10.

Clock is ticking on library’s bid for recognition

By AINSlEY MARTINEZ amartinez@liherald.com

The Lynbrook Public Library is under consideration for the National Register of Historic Places following a nomination approved by Gov. Kathy Hochul earlier this year and submitted to the National Park Service on July 18. A decision is expected within 45 days.

U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen recently sent a letter to the National Park Service supporting the library’s listing.

“The Lynbrook Public Library is much more than a building. It’s a treasured piece of our shared history on Long Island,” Gillen wrote in a statement. “It deserves recognition for its architectural beauty, its civic legacy and the important role it has played in the lives of generations of Lynbrook residents.”

Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom and war, are etched into the building’s stonework, underscoring its historical role as a center for learning.

Village Administrator John Giordano said the building’s architectural significance and civic legacy prompted him and Curran to begin the nomination process in 2020.

I think this nomination has shown what a jewel the library really is.

RoBYN GIllooN Llibrary director

The library is a prominent example of Neoclassical Revival architecture, featuring formal entrance, large windows, an expansive reading room, and classical details throughout. Exterior carvings of Pallas

“It was a smart move on the Village back then to preserve the space and not move,” Giordano said.

“It’s a beautiful building, and beautiful in its architecture,” said library director Robyn Gilloon. “We still live by the standard ideology set back in 1929.”

The library played a unique role in the early 20th century by hosting civic and women’s groups, including clubs linked to the women’s suffrage movement. Adult librarian Kathleen Curran also noted that women’s clubs were instrumental in establishing public libraries across the country during that period.

Gilloon said the library’s Continued on page 10

things to know MEDiCARE

Navigating Medicare: What seniors should know

By SARA LODESPOTO Intern

Many seniors ready to retire are still unsure about Medicare, with some finding it difficult to

Part A of Medicare

Many seniors are eligible for Medicare Part A, which primarily focuses on hospital insurance and inpatient care, at no cost as long as they have a job history of more than 10 years. Moss recommended that most seniors enroll in part A because it places them into the Medicare system, making later enrollment into other plans easier. Although, the coverage part A provides is limited. As soon as a senior is admitted to the hospital with part A, the immediate deductible is $1,676 for up to 60 nights. After the 60 nights, the co-payment is $419 per day and doubles after the 90 day mark. Aside from the hospital deductible, part A will only pay for Medicare-approved skilled nursing care facilities for up to 20 days.

decide what plan is best for their individual circumstances. Beth Moss, senior vice president of America Senior Benefits, aimed to assist seniors through the process by hosting a Medicare 101 workshop at Elmont Memorial Library on July 16 to explain the

Part B of Medicare

On the other hand, part B is an additional cost based on seniors’ adjusted gross income from two years prior. Part B covers many different doctor services, outpatient hospital services and medical supplies. When seniors are enrolled in part A with part B, their doctoral and hospital needs are covered up to 80% of the cost. There are monthly fees associated with part B, Moss said, adding that if a senior makes $106,000 or less, the average fee per month is $185. On top of the monthly fee, she continued, there is a yearly deductible that increases, just as groceries like milk and butter would, in response to inflation. The current deductible for 2025 is $257.

jargon and the complexity of senior healthcare. Here are three things to know about Medicare for seniors approaching 65:

Supplement Plan

To cover the remaining 20% of the original Medicare plan, seniors can purchase a supplement plan. These plans are from private companies used to cover uninsured things like prescription drugs, vision or hearing. Each of these private companies have different letters signifying the plans a senior can choose. Moss recommends finding the company with the cheapest supplement plan. They are identical among companies, Moss explained, comparing choosing plans to choosing a pen from BIC or Paper Mate they both work the same, but Paper Mate might be more expensive because people prefer the brand.

Aspiring weatherman forecasts a bright future Sixth

grader follows the sunny path to his dreams, marking tidal shift for parents

By AINSLEY MARTINEZ amartinez@liherald.com

Long before most kids are even aware of the weather beyond recess, 11-yearold Deen DeFrank has been keeping a trained eye on the sky.

Deen, who recently graduated from Marion Street Elementary and will be entering South Middle School this fall, has been fascinated with storms, cloud formations and severe weather since he was 5 years old.

“I started off reading books on storms and tornadoes,” Deen said. “And I really got into tornadoes and storms and weather and all that.”

Because we showed him that it was possible and encouraged him in stages, he held on to it and ran with it.

NAZIA DEFRANk

Mother of Deen, an aspiring weatherwan

While many children go through fleeting phases of interest, Deen’s passion has only intensified—so much so that he was recently invited to WPIX to meet longtime New York City weatherman Irv Gikofsky, also known as Mr. G, and received a private, behind-thescenes tour of the weather studio.

He explored the broadcast set, observed the technology behind the weather graphics, and even delivered his own forecast in front of the green screen.

“It was really fun because I’ve never really seen a real news studio,” Deen said. “We got to see the weather map, the computer who edits the weather map and the teleprompter.”

Deen shared that he would like to pursue a career in broadcast meteorology and storm chasing. He described with ease how tornadoes form and how they’re classified by strength.

“They form when cold moist air meets warm dry air,” he explained. “The warm air shoots up and they make a storm cloud. Then inside that cloud, the warm air goes up and the cool air goes down and they eventually start spinning until it makes a funnel cloud… and if it touches the ground, it’s a tornado.”

He also detailed the Enhanced Fujita scale used to measure tornado strength.

“The EF0 doesn’t really do any damage… Maybe just take off a few roof shingles,” he said. “The EF1 might damage a roof. The EF2 might uproot a tree. EF3 can lift up cars and damage half of a house. EF4 and EF5 can lift up trains and turn your house into a pile of rubble.”

But his awareness isn’t theoretical. Deen recounted observing gray stratus clouds at the park and predicting a rainstorm that arrived two hours later. He also accurately forecasted a thunder-

storm based on cumulonimbus formations spotted earlier in the day.

That ability to anticipate what’s coming is part of what he finds exciting about the field. His interest in science began even earlier, watching educational programs like “StoryBots,” which helped him understand the stars, the planets and atmospheric patterns.

His mother, Nazia DeFrank, recalls that it began with astronomy and planetary systems, but by first grade, weather had taken over.

“He always watched shows that had anything to do with weather—even if it was a cartoon tornado, he wanted to know more,” she said.

By third grade, his passion was undeniable. Deen’s teacher at the time noted that every assignment he submitted was related to weather.

“She said to me, ‘You know, he might just be a weatherman, you never know,’” Nazia said.

Rather than treat his interest as a passing phase, his family nurtured it.

They brought him to science fairs, museums and astronomy events across Long Island. Deen is now the youngest member of the Amateur Observers’ Society, a local astronomy club for adults, where he volunteers and learns from fellow stargazers.

The encouragement from his family and mentors has helped shape his confidence and ambitions. During his WPIX visit, Gikofsky offered him life advice that made a lasting impression. Deen paraphrased it as a reminder to surround himself with like-minded people and pursue his goals with focus.

Nazia emphasized the importance of fostering a child’s interests early and seriously, without patronizing children merely for their age.

“When they have those types of interests, it’s so important to grasp it early,” she said. “Because we showed him that it was possible and encouraged him in stages, he held on to it and ran with it.”

Outside of weather, Deen is also an emerging writer.

According to his mother, Nazia DeFrank, he was selected by the National Poetry Society to have one of his original poems published in a national anthology. She said the anthology will be archived in the Library of Congress and that he was chosen among hundreds of young poets across the country. Deen is expected to learn whether he wins the organization’s top prize by Sept. 30.

While preparing for middle school, he’s particularly excited about science classes, especially those that touch on climate, meteorology, or weather systems.

Even though he’s hesitant about traveling to tornado-prone areas —he admits places like Oklahoma scare him during storm season — he still dreams of storm chasing and becoming a broadcast meteorologist. He hopes to attend Harvard to study meteorology.

Second Marriage Planning

In second marriage planning, a co-trustee is sometimes recommended on the death of the first spouse. While both spouses are living and competent they run their trust or trusts together. But when one spouse dies, what prevents the other spouse from diverting all of the assets to their own children? Nothing at all, if they alone are in charge. While most people are honorable, and many are certain their spouse would never do such a thing, strange things often happen later in life. A spouse may become forgetful, delusional or senile or may be influenced by other parties. Not only that, but the children of the deceased spouse tend to feel very insecure when they find out their stepparent is in charge of all of the couple’s assets. If you choose one of the deceased spouse’s children to act as co-trustee with the surviving spouse there is a conflict that exists whereby the stepchild may be reluctant to spend assets for the surviving spouse, because whatever is spent on that spouse comes out of the child’s inheritance. Then what if stepparent gets remarried? How will the stepchild trustee react to that event? What if it

turns out the stepchild liked the stepparent when his parent was living, but not so much afterwards?

Here is where the lawyer as co-trustee may provide an ideal solution. When one parent dies, the lawyer steps in as co-trustee with the surviving spouse. The lawyer helps the stepparent to invest for their own benefit as well as making sure the principal grows to offset inflation, for the benefit of the deceased spouse’s heirs. The stepparent in this case takes care of all their business privately with their lawyer. The trusts cannot be raided. These protections may also be extended for IRA and 401(k) money passing to the spouse through the use of the “IRA Contract”. Surviving spouse agrees ahead of time that they will make an irrevocable designation of the deceased spouse’s children as beneficiaries when the IRA is left to the surviving spouse, and further agrees that any withdrawals in excess of the required minimum distribution (RMD) may only be made on consent of the lawyer.

Second marriage planning offers numerous traps for the unwary.

Crime WatCh

Teen shot near LIRR station

A 17-year-old was shot Saturday evening near the Lynbrook train station in what MTA police believe was a targeted incident.

Authorities responded to reports of gunfire at the station just before 8 p.m. Officers recovered two shell casings at the scene, but no suspects or victims were immediately located.

Less than an hour later, a 17-year-old male arrived at a hospital roughly two miles away with a gunshot wound to the back of his shoulder. The teen told investigators he had been shot at the Lynbrook station.

Police said the suspected shooter acted alone and emphasized there is no ongoing threat to the public. No arrests have been made as the investigation continues.

In a statement received by the Herald, the MTA Police Department noted that on Saturday, August 9 at approximately 7:55 p.m., multiple 911 calls were

made reporting shots fired at the Lynbrook LIRR station. MTAPD and Lynbrook Police units responded within minutes and found evidence of gunfire, including two 9mm shell casings. No victims or suspects were found at the scene.

At around 8:40 p.m., Franklin General Hospital, located 1.9 miles from the station, reported that a 17-year-old white male had walked in with a single gunshot wound to the back of his shoulder. He was listed in “not likely” condition at the time.

Detectives confirmed with the victim that he had been shot at the Lynbrook station. Investigators believe the shooter targeted the victim and acted alone, and they reiterated that there is no ongoing threat to the public.

According to the LIRR, no train service was impacted by the incident.

Nassau H.S. football kicks off Sept. 5

By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

Kickoff for the Nassau high school football season is less than a month away.

On Aug. 18, all 53 public high school football programs in the county will begin preparations for the upcoming season, scheduled to open Friday, Sept. 5 with a handful of Conference IV games leading up to the first full slate the following week.

Aside from then eight-time defending Conference II champion Garden City moving to Conference III, which saw it dominate the competition on the way to another title, the biggest news last offseason was the decision to add an 11 a.m. kickoff slot. That’ll continue in 2025 and possibly beyond, first-year Section VIII football coordinator Joe Martillotti said, as the county builds its varsity officials staff.

“We’re definitely in better shape with officiating crews as we were last year,” Martillotti said. “Some are doubling up with 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. games on Saturday. We don’t have enough officials to play every game at 2 p.m. on Saturday, but there’s also more and more teams playing Friday night which helps.”

Some teams with multiple 11 a.m. starts this season include Clarke (four), Carey (three), Sewanhaka (three), South Side (three), Uniondale (three), Elmont (two), Valley Stream South (two) and Wantagh (two.)

Massapequa (Conference I), Carey (II), Garden City (III) and Wantagh (IV) won county titles last season, but the landscape has changed again with Rutgers Cup winner Garden City moving back to Conference II, Wantagh returning to Conference III where Carey also resides now.

Carey and Wantagh are seeded No. 1 and 2, respectively, but won’t meet until Week 7 (Oct. 25) at the home of the Seahawks. Carey, which defeated Half Hollow Hills East for the Long Island Class II crown to cap an undefeated campaign, opens at home Sept. 13 against Valley Stream South.

Massapequa, which won the Rutgers Cup in 2023 and seeks a third straight county title, is ranked second behind Farmingdale this season. The Chiefs won an overtime thriller over the Dalers in the Conference I championship game last November. The teams will meet again in Week 6 at Farmingdale. Massapequa opens at home versus Freeport Sept. 13; the Dalers host Syosset the previous evening.

Third-ranked Long Beach is tasked with opening the season against Garden City in the Trojans’ return to Conference II. Garden City has won a remarkable 54 consecutive games.

10

games to watch

Sept. 12 Freeport at Massapequa

Sept. 13 Garden City at Long Beach

Sept. 19 Farmingdale at Oceanside

Sept. 27 Carey at South Side

Oct. 4 Plainedge at Lynbrook

Oct. 11 Mepham at Garden City

Oct. 18 Massapequa at Farmingdale

Oct. 25 Wantagh at Carey

Oct. 25 Freeport at Oceanside

Oct. 31 Seaford at Plainedge

Conference IV runner-up Plainedge is ranked at the top this season and kicks off on the road at North Shore Sept. 6.

Teams choosing to play a full game scrimmage can do so once 10 practices are completed, making Aug. 29 the first potential date. Teams can conduct joint practices as soon as Aug. 23 and are permitted to play 7 on 7 and also run 10 plays (11 on 11) in full gear.

Nine teams switch conferences

Along with Garden City, Carey and Wantagh, six additional teams switched conferences for 2025 based on enrollment figures. East Meadow and Valley Stream Central slid from Conference I to II, Sewanhaka from II to III, BellmoreJFK from III to II, Valley Stream South from IV to III, and Lynbrook from III to IV. East Meadow and Kennedy meet Week 1 in Bellmore. Valley Stream Central opens at home against MacArthur, Sewanhaka hosts Floral Park, and Lynbrook hits the road to face Malverne.

Few coaching changes

Last season saw new head coaches debut at Baldwin, East Meadow, Freeport, Mepham, Seaford and at the midway mark, Lawrence. Most of those squads enjoyed success and were part of the Nassau County playoffs. This year there’s new sideline bosses at North Shore and Manhasset. Dan Agovino left a legacy at North Shore with 23 years at the helm and led the Vikings to a pair of county championships and their first-ever L.I. title in recent seasons. Longtime assistant Bill Madigan takes over. At Manhasset, Mike Lewis takes over for legendary Jay Iaquinta.

Eric Dunetz/Herald photos

Chase Samelson is set to be Lynbrook’s starting quarterback this fall.

Nick Carentz and Oceanside will take on Farmingdale Sept. 19.

—Lisa Basini, Baking Coach, Bellport

Lisa’s passion is baking. Opening a store was a big step—one she made with support from PSEG Long Island’s Business First Program. She earned incentives for choosing a vacant space and rebates for upgrading to efficient LED lighting. Now, she’s saving on energy costs and her thriving business has made life a little sweeter for all of us.

More ask, ‘Can we afford to live here?’

Breaking down Long Island’s housing affordability crisis, affecting both homeowners and renters

By JORDAN VALLONE, RENEE DeLORENZO & AINSLEY MARTINEZ of Herald Community Newspapers

First in a series about housing on Long Island.

On Long Island, where the cost of living continues to climb, the term “affordable housing” is often misunderstood — or dangerously oversimplified.

According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, housing is considered affordable if it costs no more than 30 percent of a household’s gross income. But even in Nassau and Suffolk counties, where the median household income hovers around $125,000, many families find themselves priced out of both the rental and homeownership markets.

This series — “Priced Out: the Fight for Affordable Housing” — begins by laying the groundwork: breaking down terms like “affordable” and “low-income” housing, and clarifying how programs like Section 8 fit in. It also examines who is impacted — not only low-income residents, but also middle-class workers, retirees on fixed incomes, and young adults trying to remain in the communities where they grew up. Through interviews with housing experts and advocates, and an analysis of Long Island housing data, this first installment provides context to help readers understand the scale and complexity of the crisis — and sets the stage for further installments in the weeks ahead.

Understanding affordable housing, and how Long Island measures up

According to HUD, “affordable housing” means housing that is affordable for people with low to moderate incomes. The definition of “low income” is based on Area Median Income, or AMI, which varies by region and household size.

Affordable housing should cost no more than 30 percent of a household’s monthly income — whether that’s rent and utilities for renters, or mortgage and housing expenses for homeowners. Households spending more than that are considered “cost burdened,” with many forced to sacrifice other essentials like food, transportation and health care.

A 2024 report by State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli found that nearly 3 million New York households spend more than 30 percent of their income on housing. One in five households experiences a “severe cost burden,” devoting more than half of their income to housing.

On Long Island, 36 percent of households fall into the cost-burdened category.

Programs like Section 8 — part of the public housing system administered by HUD — provide housing assistance for low-income residents. Eligibility varies by location, as does the availability of units.

Long Island is grappling with an affordable-housing crisis. The high cost of homes and high

make it nearly impossible for many people to find housing — an issue that has many causes.

Freeport is an affordable-housing community, but experts contend that there is a need for

Racism, said that the housing crisis disproportionately impacts minority communities due to extensive segregation in Long Island’s housing market. She added that there is often an implicit bias among residents about who affordable housing is designed to serve.

“It isn’t just about welfare,” Taylor said.

On Long Island, some village or town-level housing authorities administer public housing and Section 8 programs, though inventory is usually small or seniorfocused, according to information from the Long Island Center for Independent Living.

What do experts have to say?

Hunter Gross, vice president of the Huntington Township Housing Coalition — which advocates for the Long Island Housing Coalition — said that Long Island’s housing crisis touches a wide range of residents.

“The affordable housing crisis on Long Island is affecting you unless you’re rich,” Gross said simply. “It’s affecting most people, regardless of ethnicity, skin color and profession.”

April Francis Taylor, acting president of ERASE

Many families — particularly in communities of color — have not had the economic opportunity to accumulate generational wealth, Taylor explained. That wealth is often passed down in the form of cash, investments or property.

Those who have never owned homes are still playing catch-up, she said. And the harder it is for them to purchase homes, the harder it becomes to improve their economic conditions. This reinforces the need for fair housing in achieving racial equity, a key mission of ERASE Racism.

“There’s generational things, there’s racial things — the economic piece of those is huge,” Taylor said.

One of the policies that helps address the issue, Gross explained, is inclusionary zoning, which sets aside a portion of apartment units at below market rates.

Currently, Long Island has income-restricted rental housing funded by low-income tax credits, as well as workforce housing, Section 8 housing and senior affordable housing developments. But, Gross said, there is not nearly enough of it.

Expanding the types of affordable housing on Long Island — while increasing access to what already exists — is essential to meeting the needs of all demographics, he said. That includes building more accessory dwelling units, higher-density housing, and senior housing options, so older residents can downsize and make room for younger families in the market.

“It’s a domino effect,” Gross said.

Without meaningful efforts to make Long Island

This crisis spares none ‘unless you’re rich’

more affordable, young professionals looking to start families are leaving, he added. The median home price continues to climb, making ownership less attainable. “There’s a mass exodus of young professionals because they can’t afford a home here,” Gross said. “We’re losing so many folks.”

When young people are driven out of communities, the National Low Income Housing Coalition states, it weakens local economies by shrinking the workforce and straining public services.

Expanding affordable housing, Gross said, would help lower housing prices across the board.

A 2024 study by Urban Wire, a blog by the Urban Institute, found that new housing construction in areas with less restrictive zoning laws resulted in lower prices — evidence of which was observed in Houston, Texas.

But that’s only part of the picture. On Long Island, Gross said, there are still many barriers to building affordable housing. Zoning laws, land-use policies and a lack of public assistance all need to be addressed comprehensively.

“The only way we can actually make a difference in this crisis is by changing our policy,” Gross said. “We can work with our town boards, but they have to be willing to accept the reality of the crisis that we’re in and agree we really need to start making changes.”

What the data says: a Herald analysis of L.I. home prices

A Herald analysis of 1,052 homes currently listed on Redfin, a real estate brokerage website, across 27 municipalities in Nassau and Suffolk counties and surrounding areas reveals a regional housing market under pressure, with high prices and a shrinking pool of affordable homes.

Across all listings, the median home price was $809,500, roughly 9.5 times the median income, according to U.S. Census data. The homes averaged 2,161 square feet. Only 0.76 percent of the listings — just eight homes — were under $255,000, and considered affordable under a standard affordability metric, with prices no more than three times the median household income of $85,000.

Oyster Bay and Glen Head had the highest average list prices, more than $3.4 million, with their average home sizes nearing 5,000 square feet. Homes in the top 5 percent of the market cost more than $2.57 million, with several listings above $10 million.

The most expensive home per square foot was a 320-square-foot bungalow in Freeport listed at an eye-popping $2,343 per square foot, more than four times the regional average.

Other towns with high price-persquare-foot values included Sea Cliff and Oceanside, all indicating strong demand for smaller, high-end properties in desirable waterfront or coastal-adjacent locations.

A handful of communities — East Rockaway, Freeport, Lynbrook, Rockville Centre and Valley Stream— had

the chart above shows the median list prices of homes in 28 areas of Long island,

Herald file photo

Zoning laws in local municipalities impact housing on Long island. throughout her term as governor, Kathy Hochul has tried to adjust laws to bolster housing here. She was met with criticism from area officials who campaigned to “Save our Suburbs.”

the only listings flagged as potentially affordable. Each had one or two homes priced below $255,000.

Still, these were outliers. In most towns, even entry-level listings exceeded $600,000. The average price per square foot across the region was $510, but several areas exceeded $600, making them among the most expensive for their size.

The gap between municipalities is stark. The average home in Oyster Bay costs nearly five times as much as the

average home in Freeport.

Despite the variety of housing stock, most homes shared certain characteristics: around four bedrooms, two to three bathrooms, and measuring between 1,700 and 2,400 square feet.

With prices elevated and affordability metrics strained, first-time buyers and middle-income families face daunting odds in securing homeownership on Long Island without substantial wealth or financing.

Key terms, explained

■ Affordable housing: Defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development as housing that costs no more than 30 percent of a household’s gross monthly income, including rent or mortgage plus utilities.

■ Cost burdened: A household that spends more than 30 percent of its income on housing. “Severely cost burdened” applies when more than 50 percent of income goes toward housing.

■ Section 8: A federal housing program providing rental assistance to low-income households. It includes:

■ Project-based subsidies tied to specific buildings

■ Housing Choice Vouchers: portable subsidies tenants can use to pay rent

Big swings and donations at Mayor’s Golf Outing

By AINSLEY MARTINEZ amartinez@liherald.com

The Lynbrook Community Chest Mayor’s Golf Outing returned August 11: celebrating the community and local leaders.

The event, co-sponsored by the Lynbrook Chamber of Commerce and the Village of Lynbrook, took place at Inwood Country Club at 50 Peppe Dr. and Seawane Club at 1300 Club Dr.

Combined, the two courses held about 200 golfers. Chairman Jeff Greenfield said the decision to expand to two courses came after an influx of registrations.

“It keeps getting bigger and better,” Greenfield, who has been involved with the outing for more than a decade, said.

Proceeds support the Lynbrook Community Chest, a nonprofit charitable organization that provides financial assistance and essential services to Lynbrook residents facing economic hardship.

The outing serves as one of the Community Chest’s most vital fundraisers of the year, Greenfield said.

“This is a time for the village to come together, raise funds for a worthwhile cause, and have a little fun in the process,” mayor Alan Beach said.

Organizers honored Lynbrook Superintendent Paul J. Lynch, Cindy Screiner, executive committee member and managing director and head of US Wealth Management, and Johnny McGorey’s owner Dave Baker.

Just when it seems like ever yone has fully settled into your summer groove, it’s time to get back into the school routine, which can be cause both relief and stress at the same time for parents and students alike. Even if your kids are fairly adaptable, big changes like heading back to school after a summer of limited scheduling can be stressful.

Head off potential problems during the transition into the busy back-to-school season to get ever yone back on the schooltime track.

Set A Family Schedule

Rather than rushing into school season all at once, try to plan your schedule ahead of time. Easing into school season can make for a much smoother transition.

This means gradually tapering off later bedtimes and enforcing an earlier wake up call. If meal times have gotten lax, it’s also a good idea to start work ing back toward your school-time schedule.

Stay Organized

From weekly meetings to extracurricular activities and weekend sports, try using lists and charts to stay organized Especially as kids grow older and their activities lists and school deadlines expand, keeping track of ever yone can become a real chore. Find a place in the house where you can post calendars and lists that ever yone can

Dusting off the cobwebs

see. Try color-coding by child or type of activity (school, work, sports, etc.) for extra organization.

Communication Central

Many kids struggle in school simply because they can’t manage the paperwork: field trip permission slips didn’t make it out

of the book bag, completed homework doesn’t make it back into the book bag. Create one designated place to drop off book bags and gear, collect important school papers for signatures and communicate family announcements and plans. Establish another place for homework that’s always clean, stocked with supplies,

inviting, well-lit and away from TV and other distracting devices. Add comfor table seating at a table or desk. This will also be where you double-check for teacher notes and assignments and repack the book bag Remember to have them clean up each night!

List Family Goals

Have each person in the family list out his or her goals for this school year. They can be small or challenging, but it can give everyone something to strive for.

It’s also a good way to remind kids about family values like encouraging one another and making time to support ever yone’s individual interests.

Buy Supplies Ahead

Don’t wait until the last minute to search for school supplies like notebooks, pencils and paper or the bigger ticket items like backpacks. Seeking out necessary items ahead of time can alleviate the stress of not being able to find what you need, and spreading out purchases over time can eliminate a major one-time hit to the family budget.

Photo: Getting kids ready for a new school year is about more than updating their wardrobe or organizing carpools with fellow parents. Reacclimating everyone in the family to the routine of school after a relaxing summer is a significant undertaking,

New service dog joins Special Victims Bureau

Samosa III will be busy at Nassau County district attorney’s office,

By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com

Samosa III, a Labrador-golden retriever mix nearing her second birthday, has become a key member of the Nassau County district attorney’s office.

The easygoing puppy took part in Canine Companions’ National Graduation Ceremony last Friday at the organization’s Northeast Training Center in Medford. The group was one of the country’s first service dog providers, and is celebrating its 50th year in operation. Samosa III will serve as a facility dog, bred and trained specifically to support people testifying in sensitive court cases.

She was one of 56 dogs who graduated from Canine Companions. On stage, her leash was officially handed off from Puppy Raiser Kelsey McGraw to Amber Kemperman, the assistant district attorney for the D.A.’s office’s Special Victims Bureau.

“We’re very excited to have Samosa in the Nassau D.A.’s office,” Kemperman said. “We’re excited to see her personality come through a little more, with how affectionate and playful she can be.”

As a part of the D.A.’s team, Samosa will be involved in many cases, helping victims of crimes process their feelings while working with law enforcement. “Samosa will be coming to work with me every day,” Kemperman explained. “She will be able to sit in on meetings and interviews with victims of domestic violence and child sexual abuse victims and provide comfort for them as they talk through the details of everything that they’ve gone through.”

McGraw, a volunteer trainer, raised Samosa through a program offered at the University of Pitts-

Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly, left, Assistant District Attorney Amber Kemperman and Puppy Raiser Kelsey McGraw celebrated Samosa III’s graduation last Friday.

burgh. After she passed the leash to Kemperman at Friday’s graduation, she welled up.

“It’s kind of surreal to think about the past year of my life with her,” McGraw said of her four-legged trainee. “When I look at her, I see a little three-and-ahalf-month-old puppy, and now she’s off to do really

great things. Being a part of this organization has just honestly changed my life, and I couldn’t recommend it more.

“Samosa taught me as much as I taught her,” McGraw continued. “I’m just so proud of her, and I couldn’t picture a better match and better fit for her than to work with people who really need her.”

District Attorney Anne Donnelly was a special guest speaker at the graduation. “These dogs will make an enormous difference in so many lives, especially my Special Victims Bureau,” she told the crowd of people and canines. “I am grateful for our partnership with Canine Companions.”

Donnelly praised Samosa as a dog with a gift for relaxation.

“She was paired with our Special Victims Bureau because of how easygoing she is,” she explained. “Those qualities are desperately needed when it comes to helping victims of physical and sexual abuse feel a sense of calm.”

The graduating class was made up of four-legged experts in over 40 areas, able to support people of all ages with special needs or disabilities, helping them live with a greater degree of independence. The dogs are provided to clients at no cost.

Beyond the graduates, the ceremony also celebrated a new chapter for two longtime staff members at Canine Companions’ Medford center. Debra Dougherty is stepping down as executive director, and Ellen Torop, a mentor trainer of 36 years, is retiring.

“It was absolutely my dream job,” Torop said. “It was a beautiful marriage of what fascinated me about dogs, and also having an opportunity to feel like I had

Adelphi’s business school earns top recognition

Adelphi University’s Robert B. Willumstad School of Business has been named one of the nation’s top MBA programs in The Princeton Review’s 2025 rankings, reinforcing its growing national profile for excellence in graduate business education.

The school was recognized in two major categories — Best On-Campus MBA Programs and Best Online MBA Programs —highlighting Adelphi’s commitment to high-quality learning across both traditional and digital platforms. Only 213 schools made the prestigious on-campus MBA list.

The annual rankings are based on survey data from 390 business schools and 34,700 students nationwide. The methodology includes more than 60 data points ranging from academic rigor and faculty credentials to student satisfaction, career services and experiential learning opportunities.

“Being named one of the best MBA programs in the country is a tremendous honor that reflects the strength of our curriculum and the dedication of our faculty, staff and students,” MaryAnne Hyland, dean of the Willumstad School of Business, said in a news release. “We prepare our students to lead with agility and strategic insight in

a global business landscape shaped by innovation and AI.”

The Princeton Review’s profile of Adelphi praises the MBA program’s flexibility for working professionals, personalized approach, and careerfocused curriculum. Students surveyed cited the program’s supportive faculty, strong alumni network, and real-world business training as standout features.

Rob Franek, editor-in-chief of The Princeton Review, said all schools on the 2025 list excel in four key areas: strong academics, hands-on learning, career services, and high student satisfaction. “We highly recommend Adelphi University’s Robert B. Willumstad School of Business,” he said, in the release.

Adelphi, a nationally ranked doctoral research university in Garden City, continues to earn accolades. In addition to this recognition, the university has been named a 2025 Best College, Best Value College, and Top Performer in Social Mobility by U.S. News & World Report. Forbes and The Wall Street Journal also rank it the top private university on Long Island.

–Jeffrey Bessen

Former Senator Al D’Amato reflects on career Al D’AmAto

By KEPHERD DANIEL kdaniel@liherald.com

Alfonse “Al” D’Amato, a longtime Island Park and current Lido Beach resident, served as U.S. Senator from New York for 18 years from 1981 to 1999, following a decade as supervisor of the Town of Hempstead. He earned the nickname “Senator Pothole” for his hands-on approach to constituent service.

Long Island’s own “Senator Pothole” turned 88 on Aug. 1. A three-term U.S. Senator, D’Amato once fillibustered for 15 hours to prevent the US government from providing financial assistance to New York City during its fiscal crisis.

Now founder of the lobbying firm, Park Strategies and a perennial voice on WABC Radio,

he reflected about his proudest achievements and today’s politics.

Q:What accomplishments from your public service career mean the most to you?

A: “I loved fighting for the people of our state. I was proud to help elect Governor Pataki, and it was a great privilege to serve as supervisor of the Town of Hempstead for almost 10 years. During that time, we were able to acquire 40 acres on the ocean in Lido Beach and the Lido Beach Golf Course—both for approximately $2 million. That was extraordinary. I also worked to shut down the incinerator in Oceanside and help secure the land for the waste facility that’s there today. I moved to Island Park more than eight years ago,

and I still live nearby in Lido Beach. Many of my family members, including my daughter and grandchildren, live in or near Island Park. It’s been an honor to serve the community in ways that helped it grow and prosper.”

Q: You were called “Senator Pothole.” Where did that nickname come from?

A: “I loved that nickname because it meant that no issue was too small or too big. Even a pothole needed attention, and I would work to get it fixed. It was important—for the safety of the community and for showing that we cared.”

Q:You held one of the longest filibusters in Senate history. What led to that?

A: “Yes, it was the second or third longest filibuster in Senate history. I stood up to block a bill that would have cost New York more than 1,000 jobs. The House had left town, so I stood up and spoke to try to protect our workers. It was about doing what was right for New Yorkers.”

Q: After leaving the Senate in 1999, what came next?

A: “When I lost, I was very for-

I’ve been blessed to enjoy life with my wife and two children.”

Q: What keeps you busy today?

A: “I’ve helped send 17 grandchildren to college—six of them went to Notre Dame. One graduated number one in math at Notre Dame. I’m very proud of them. I also have two young children now—one is in a sophomore in high school, and the other’s a senior. I’ve been very fortunate.”

Q: What’s changed most in Washington since you served?

A: “They don’t work together anymore. We used to have real bipartisanship. Senator [Patrick] Moynihan and I became a team during my last two terms. Now, Democrats and Republicans just fight. It’s not good for the country.”

tunate. Friends stepped in to help—one built me an office, another helped me find a house. I had no car, no place to go, but we built a very successful practice and enjoy the private sector. I now live not far from where I grew up, not to far from where I grew up in Island Park. We built a home right off the ocean, and

Q:What advice would you give to young people considering public service?

A: “If you think you can make a difference in government, and you truly care about people, go for it. There’s no greater public service than working on behalf of the people you represent.”

things to know

Uptick in ticket prices:

What riders should know

By BRIAN KACHARABA

bkacharaba@liherald.com

On July 30, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority released a proposal outlining a series of fare and ticket changes for the Long Island Rail Road, as well as increases in bridge and tunnel tolls. If approved by the MTA this fall, the changes would take effect in January 2026. Here’s a breakdown:

LIRR ticket price increases

The MTA is proposing an average fare increase of 4.4% on one-way peak, monthly, and weekly tickets for most Long Island Rail Road routes.

An off-peak city ticket would be raised by 25 cents to $5.25 and a peak city trip will have the same increase at a cost of $7.25.

Monthly fares would be capped at $500.

If approved, this would mark the LIRR’s first fare hike since August 2023, when prices rose by 4.5%.

Ticket activations

All one-way mobile tickets would automatically activate upon purchase and expire after four hours. Paper tickets would also expire four hours after purchase.

Currently, LIRR one-way and round-trip tickets are valid for 60 days from the date of purchase, and 10-trip tickets are valid for six months.

A new “Day Pass,” allowing unlimited travel, would replace the roundtrip ticket. It would be valid from the time of purchase until 4 a.m. the following day.

Bridge and tunnel tolls

Tolls on MTA bridges and tunnels are expected to rise by 7.5% for E-ZPass users with Tolls by Mail.

This would increase the toll from $6.94 to $7.46 for crossings such as the RFK, Whitestone, Throgs Neck, and Verrazzano-Narrows bridges, as well as the Queens-Midtown and Hugh L. Carey tunnels.

The Cross Bay and Marine Parkway bridges would go from $2.60 to $2.80. Like the LIRR, the

was in 2023.

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News briefs

Lynbrook firefighters wash down burning towels outside the Bristal

8 Freer St. on July 30 where a dryer fire occurred.

Firefighters extinguish dryer fire at Bristal

Lynbrook firefighters extinguished a dryer fire at the Bristal Assisted Living at 8 Freer St. on July 30.

Firefighters, under the command of Chief Clayton Murphy, responded to the call shortly before 2:30 p.m. Vulcan Company was the first engine on the scene and secured the hydrant outside the building. Crews stretched a hose line to the rear of the building and extinguished the fire in the dryer.

Firefighters removed burning towels from the building and washed them down outside. They used two fans to ventilate the first floor. Residents on the first floor were evacuated during the incident. No injuries were reported. Firefighters remained on the scene for approximately 40 minutes.

— Ainsley Martinez

STEPPING OUT

Unleash a

The Midtown Men

Jump in to solve a prehistoric ‘mystery’

Former stars of the award-winning jukebox musical “Jersey Boys,” reunited as The Midtown Men, are back with their ‘60s vibe at Eisenhower Park. During their time in the mega-hit, Tony Award winner Christian Hoff, Michael Longoria, Daniel Reichard and Tony nominee J. Robert Spencer shared the stage for over 1,000 performances. These Broadway veterans, with their powerhouse band, are realizing the dream they brought to life as the iconic Four Seasons. The Midtown Men is the next chapter for these accomplished entertainers, making them the first vocal group ever formed by the principal cast of a high-profile Broadway show. Not only have they continued to win over audiences of all ages in nearly 2,000 live shows, their self-titled debut album, “The Midtown Men: Sixties Hits” was met with critical acclaim and garnered five star album reviews across iTunes and was followed by their first radio single “All Alone On Christmas.”

By Abbey Salvemini

Long Island Children’s Museum goes prehistoric this summer, bringing dinosaurs to life both in the exhibit space and on stage! Budding paleontologists have been digging into the exhibit “Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed,” where they uncover ancient secrets through real fossils and life-size skeletal replicas.

That prehistoric excitement leaps to the stage in the form of the museum’s latest original production. Newly installed theater co-directors Lisa Rudin and Austin Costello share visitors’ dino-fever and welcome everyone to “Unbox A Saurus For Us!”

Using the exhibit as its starting point, everyone enjoys what Costello describes as “a chaotic, interactive half hour of dinosaur comedy.”

For those who have yet to experience it, now’s the time, as show will soon be extinct — it closes Aug. 27!

The escapades actually begin within the exhibit area itself, where Rudin and Costello discuss the production and educate families about the fossil display.

“We wanted to do something fun, lighthearted and really interactive. We decided to start the show in the exhibit. We do about 10-15 minutes where we talk to kids and tell them about the show. When they come in, they get to go through the process of “un-boxing our saurus.” If they don’t come to the exhibit, that’s okay too, it’s not like you have to have one to understand the other,” Rudin explains.

The original storyline is based on the fictional eccentric Dr. Patricia Osiris, who works for the organization Dinorama. She’s set to uncrate a huge dinosaur she “discovered” for the museum, but misplaced her keys to the crate. She then calls out for help get the creature out of the box, encouraging everyone to use their imaginations. Each audience essentially carries out the remainder of what unfolds on stge by becoming problem solvers to assist scatterbrained Dr. Patti.

“The children have the power in that the show will not continue if they don’t play along,” Costello adds. It involves some creative improvisation, which gives each staging a special twist, depending upon the involvement of the audience.

“We do have a point in the show where we ask the kids to help us name the dinosaur. We also have a

• Aug. 20 and 27, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; Aug. 24, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

• $5 with museum admission, $4 members, $10 theater only

• Tickets can be purchased at licm.org/theater or at the box office

• Museum Row, Garden City

moment where they get to ask the dinosaur questions, and of course, Austin [Costello], who is in the dinosaur costume, comes up with some really good answers,” Rudin says.

One thing is for certain: the “Saurus” will always be unboxed one way or another.

“My favorite moment is when the dinosaur is finally revealed because people really don’t know what to expect. They don’t know if it’s going to be a puppet or a costume and we do our best in not giving it away until the moment so that’s a really fun bit. A lot of excited, happy screaming,” Costello shares.

Rudin, who also a teaching artist when not involved with her museum theater duties explains that she specifically chooses comedy — and material — that young children respond to effectively.

“I like to bring a lot of joy to our audiences. They leave the show having had a lot of fun and the parents have had the joy and the pride in seeing their child participate. It’s just a joyful, fun, happy experience,” Rudin says.

And there’s even more to look forward to — the museum is already planning a series of original stage productions inspired by its upcoming exhibits, bringing hands-on learning to life in new and exciting ways.

Saturday, Aug. 16, 7 p.m. Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, Eisenhower Park, East Meadow. Contact nassaucountyny. gov for info and updates.

Monster Truck madness

day-only performance is part of the

Also don’t miss “Beezy County Fair: A Bee Tale,” a delightful stage adaptation of Gay Thomas’s heartwarming book, on Aug. 16. The story celebrates the power of working together toward a shared goal — all wrapped in a fun, fact-filled adventure buzzing with bee-related tidbits. The oneday-only performance is part of the museum’s annual sweet summer celebration, Honey Hoopla.

Rudin and Costello bring an energetic mix of comedy and imagination with an educational component to their productions, which introduce young audiences to live theater. The duo cultivates a joyful and engaging environment that encourages curiosity, creativity and laughter — leaving children and adults with lasting memories.

“Who wants to help uncover a dinosaur?” Yashaun Harris rallies young “paleontologists” for hands-on dinosaur fun during a pre-performance introduction inside the Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed exhibit.

UBS Arena explodes with the raw power of epic machines at Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live. “Kids” of all ages can watch their favorite Hot Wheels trucks come to life in Glow-N-Fire action. Everyone will enjoy the added fiery twist: pyrotechnic effects light up the arena. To make this show even more special, get ready an adrenalinefueled birthday party as the original monster truck that started it all, Bigfoot, marks its 50th year of entertaining fans. Of course, there’s so much more to grab your attention. Check out Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark, HW 5-Alarm, Bone Shaker, Gunkster, and the newest entry, Skelesaurus, the giant that unleashes his fossil fury. Fans can also witness a special appearance from a transforming robot, plus the high-flyers of the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks freestyle motocross team.

Saturday, Aug, 16, 12:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 17, 2:30 p.m. UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont. Tickets available at hotwheelsmonstertruckslive. com or ticketmaster.com.

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CALENDAR

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14

‘Summer of Love’ Pet Adoption

The Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter welcomes summer with the return of its “Summer of Love” pet adoption program. Now through Sept. 1 all pet adoption fees will be waived, making it easier than ever to adopt a pet. Each adoption includes free spaying/neutering, vaccinations and microchipping. Additionally, there is only a $10 licensing fee for dogs. This summer, spread the love and provide a fur-ever home to these shelter animals. Check out the friendly faces of the dogs and cat before arriving at shelter. Browse photos and profiles at hempsteadny.gov/179/animalshelter or on the shelter’s Facebook page.

•Where: 3320, Beltagh Ave., Wantagh

•Time: Ongoing

•Contact: at hempsteadny. gov/179/animal-shelter or (516) 785-5220

On Exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “At Play,” surveys artists’ perennial fascination with entertainment in all forms. Framing this topic between the nineteenth century Belle Époque and today, the exhibit includes works by Pablo Picasso, Reginald Marsh, Everett Shinn, and Max Beckmann among many others. The works are gathered to represent a wide range of expressions, from entertainment-related activities to the fascinating personalities involved. It encompasses dance, music, theater, movies, circus, boating, and beach scenes, along with horseracing and various sports, both active and passive Also featured are archival items from The Metropolitan Opera and the New York Philharmonic, including costumes by Marc Chagall for Die Zauberflöte, vintage fashion items by such designers as Alfred Shaheen, and iconic costumes from the FoliesBergère in Paris. On view until Nov. 9.

•Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

•Time: Ongoing

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

Summer grooves

‘Have the time of your life’ with Dancing Dream’s tribute to Abba at Eisenhower Park.

•Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow

•Time: 7 p.m.

•Contact: nassaucountyny.gov

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Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons: The Last Encores

For over 60 years, Frankie Valli has captured the hearts and souls of fans worldwide with unforgettable hits such as “Sherry” “Walk Like a Man” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.” Now Frankie makes his way back to New York on his farewell tour at Flagstar at Westbury Music Fair. It promises to be a poignant celebration of Valli’s legendary career, showcasing his timeless music and incredible showmanship. The original Jersey boy himself, Frankie Valli is a true American legend. Now 91, Valli is the only original member still performing with the group, which has been entertaining fans for more than six decades. His incredible career with the Four Seasons, as well as his solo success, has spawned countless hit singles. With unforgettable tunes like “Sherry,” “Walk Like A Man,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll,” “December ‘63 – Oh What A Night,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You,” and of course, “Grease.” His songs have been omnipresent in other iconic movies such as “The Deer Hunter,” “Dirty Dancing,” “Mrs. Doubtfire,” “Conspiracy Theory” and “The Wanderers.” As many as 200 artists have done cover versions of Frankie’s “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” from Nancy Wilson’s jazz treatment to Lauryn Hill’s hip-hop makeover. Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons have sold over 100 million records worldwide. They continue to tour throughout the U.S. and abroad to packed houses receiving nightly standing ovations from thrilled fans of multiple generations. Valli’s long-lasting career led to the overwhelming success of the Broadway musical “Jersey Boys,” which chronicles Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons incredible career and features all of their greatest hits. The 12th longest-running show on Broadway has been seen by over 30 million people.

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Families are invited to “bee” amazed at Long Island Children’s Museum’s Honey Hoopla. Celebrate National Honey Bee Day with a buzz-worthy lineup of activities. Meet a local beekeeper and explore the fascinating world of bees, from their ancient history and anatomy to their vital role in our ecosystem; take part in fun bee-themed crafts; sample different types of honey; also enjoy live theater performances inspired by the book “Beezy County Fair: A Bee Tale.” Reservations are recommended to reserve your spot.

•Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: 11 a.m.-2:45 p.m.

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

Bat Walk

Join wildlife biologist Nic Comparato to explore the fascinating world of bats at Old Westbury Gardens. He’ll guide visitors in learning how bats use echolocation to navigate the night and hunt for insects. Listen for bat calls with specialized equipment, search the skies for their silhouettes, and discuss their important role in local ecosystems and ongoing conservation efforts. All ages

welcome. Free with admission. Space is limited; advance registration required for all attendees, including members. Rain date is Aug. 17.

•Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

•Time: 8-9:30 p.m.

•Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048

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Lynbrook Village Board Meeting

The Village Board meets. Open to the public.

•Where: 1 Columbus Dr.

•Time: 7 p.m.

•Contact: lynbrookvillage.net

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Family movie Stop by Lynbrook Public Library for a family screening of “The Unbreakable Boy.” A young boy with both a rare brittle-bone disease and autism transforms everyone around him with his joyous, funny, and life-affirming world view.

•Where: 56 Eldert St.

•Time: 2-4 p.m.

•Contact: lynbrooklibrary.org

•Where: Atlantic Ave. (Between Merrick and Stauderman)

•Time: Ongoing Thursdays through Aug. 28, 6- 9 p.m.

•Contact: lynbrookusa.com

Little

Learners Art Lab

Each week in this engaging workshop, participants are introduced to hands-on materials, artmaking, and inspiration from artists and techniques. Young kids, ages 2-5, build critical thinking skills, expand vocabulary, and support imaginations as they play, create and explore. This week, experiment with creating drip paintings. $4 with museum admission.

•Where: Museum Row, Garden City

•Time: 11:30 a.m.-noon

•Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

Swifties in the park

Get your Taylor groove on with

Let’s Sing Taylor, with the Taylor Swift Experience tribute.

•Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow

•Time: 7 p.m.

•Contact: nassaucountyny.gov

•Where: 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury

• Time: 8 p.m.

•Contact: livenation.com

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Unbox A-Saurus for Us!

Young paleontologistsin-training are sure to enjoy Long Island Children’s Museum’s new stage production. This interactive theatrical experience invites visitors to join an eccentric paleontologist (a.k.a. “Dr. Patti”) as she attempts to reveal a neverbefore-seen dinosaur specimen — if only she can figure out how to open the crate it’s locked in. Along the way, the audience becomes key players in solving problems, sparking laughter and exploring the world of dinosaurs in a lighthearted “scientific” comedy that blends imagination and learning. $5 with museum admission, $10 theater only.

•Where: Museum Row, Garden City

•Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; also Aug 24 and Aug. 27

•Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

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Lynbrook Summer Car Show

Check out the weekly car shows with live music and community fun. Free for spectators and participants.

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17

Lynbrook Chamber of Commerce Casino Night Don’t miss out on a fun evening support the Lynbrook community. With casino games, food, drinks, and raffles. Delicious food, drinks and great company. Try your luck at the poker table, roll the dice and more. Sponsors are needed.

•Where: Knights of Columbus, 78 Hempstead Ave.

• Time: 6-9 p.m.

•Contact: lynbrookusa.com or Audrey Donaldson at (516) 670-2057

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.

U.S. office to decide on library’s nomination

mission remains rooted in community service, literacy, and education, even as architectural and technological changes have altered some internal operations.

Lynbrook Mayor Alan Beach also expressed his support for the designation.

“The library is one of Lynbrook’s architectural treasures and has played a significant role in many cultural and political events of our nation,” Beach wrote in a statement.

Deputy Mayor Michael Hawxhurst, who serves as liaison to the Library Board, echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the importance of local history.

“As a community it is important to preserve our past,” Hawxhurst stated. “We are grateful that the NYS Historic Preservation Office nominated our application and are hopeful the National Park Service will add the Library to [the] National List of Historic Places.”

The Lynbrook Public Library, located in Nassau County, was designed by architect Hugh Tallant and completed in 1929. It is one of 20 sites statewide nominated this year for the historic designation. According to state officials, it is the only location on Long Island to receive this recognition in 2024.

The library faced demolition in 1985 due to its limited space. The original building, totaling just 9,000 square feet including the basement, was deemed insufficient for the community’s growing needs. A proposal was introduced to build a new facility at the site of the former Village Hall on Merrick Road, but

LEGAL NOTICE

residents rejected it by a 61 percent majority.

In response, the Library Board approved expansion in 1986. The 11,000-square-foot addition was completed in 1992 and was designed to complement the historic character of the original structure.

Despite the expansion, parts of the library still require restoration. Giordano noted that repairs to the building’s stonework may cost several hundred thousand dollars. Designation in the

Public Notices

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU GHA HOLDINGS, LLC, -against65 PHIPPS AVE LLC, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on March 14, 2023, wherein GHA HOLDINGS, LLC is the Plaintiff and 65 PHIPPS AVE LLC, ET AL., are the Defendants. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, NORTH SIDE STEPS, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on September 17, 2025 at 2:00PM, the premises known as 65 PHIPPS AVENUE, EAST ROCKAWAY, NY 11518; tax map

identification 38-506-52-53; and description: ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE INCORPORTATED VILLAGE OF EAST ROCKAWAY, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK . Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 602603/2020; Brian J. Davis, Esq., as Referee; Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION

OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 155079

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 FLOYD KLEINERT, VAITIARE RAYMOND, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered August 14, 2024, 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 September 15, 2025 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 47 Wood Street, Lynbrook, NY 11563. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Village of Lynbrook, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37 Block 304 Lot 62. Approximate amount of judgment $812,294.32 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #605885/2023. Michael W. Alpert, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1 775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 23-000763 86381 155061

the Lynbrook public Library, designed by architect Hugh tallant and built in 1929, is known for its neoclassical revival style and ornate stonework, featuring classical motifs.

National Register would make the library eligible for both federal and state preservation grants that could help fund needed improvements.

“It’s very exciting because we could eventually receive grants for preserving the library,” Giordano said.

Library officials said the recognition process has already generated renewed appreciation for the building and its legacy.

“It is a very exciting time as the Lynbrook Library continues through the process of being designated on the National Register of Historic Places,” Gilloon said. “The outpouring of support from Congresswoman Gillen, Mayor Beach, the Library and Village Board and residents is a reassurance of the importance of libraries throughout our history and into the future.”

The building was commissioned in 1928 as Lynbrook’s population grew with the expansion of the Long Island Rail Road. Tallant, who designed the structure, was known for his work on notable New York City landmarks, including the New Amsterdam Theatre and the Brooklyn Academy of Music, alongside his partner Henry Beaumont Herts.

The nomination was first announced on March 21. If approved by the National Park Service, the Lynbrook Public Library will officially join the National Register of Historic Places, a designation that affirms its historical and architectural significance.

“I think this nomination has shown what a jewel the library really is,” Gilloon said.

under review for the national register of Historic places, the library’s historic architecture reflects its nearly century-old civic legacy.

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

CSC Holdings, LLC seeks a Data Analyst to develop business-critical insights and provide technical and operational recommendations. Conduct reporting analytics focused on solving critical business issues identified by senior executives across the company's product, marketing, sales, and operations business units. Create analytics reports on a weekly, monthly, and ad hoc basis from advanced web analytics reporting and business intelligence tools, including ga360, Power BI, Tableau, and Adobe Omniture based on business-defined KPIs. Perform quality assurance tests to ensure the accuracy and relevance of data reporting. Collaborate with web operations team to implement new web analytics tracking tools. Utilize e-commerce web analytics to perform website buy-flow purchase funnel and product category analysis. #LI-DNI Position requires a Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Business Administration, or a related field, and 3 years of experience with driving operational solutions through data analytics. Experience must include at minimum: 3 years of experience with business intelligence and reporting tools including SSIS, SSRS, Tableau, Power Query, and PowerBI; 3 years of experience with web analytics and digital analytics platforms including Google Analytics, GA4 Query Explorer, Universal Analytics, and Adobe Experience Cloud; 3 years of experience with scripting languages including HTML, CSS, Python, and JavaScript; 3 years of experience with CI/CD processes including GitHub, GitLab, and Cloud Build; 3 years of experience utilizing Data Analysis Expressions (DAX) reference in Power BI, Analysis Services, and Power Pivot in Excel data models; 3 years of experience with cloud-based databases, including Microsoft Azure and Google Could platform; and 3 years of experience with relational database management systems, including SQL, MS SQL, and T-SQL. Job location: Long Island City, NY. Rate of Pay: $141,170.00 - $151,170.00 per year. To apply, please visit https://www.alticecareers.com and search by job title or enter Job ID number: 9934

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

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

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YAre columns made in pieces?

Q. Our front porch is falling apart and we want to replace it, just as it is. The original columns are rotted at the bottoms and there are cracks where the columns were put together, vertical joints that appear as if the columns were made from many pieces. Is that common, that columns are made from many pieces? Do you have a recommendation for who can make new columns and what kind of wood is best? I’m not choosey, because they will be painted. What do you suggest? Also, I know you recommend getting permits, but I want to do the work myself, and it’s a direct replacement, so I want to just dismantle it and put it back. The roof concerns me most, so I plan to take a lot of pictures. Do you think this is as much of a problem as it would be if the porch were new?

A. So this is a column about columns. I remember working in a firm 40 years ago, when a renowned surgeon from Texas purchased 100-plus acres with a mansion on Long Island Sound, and I was assigned to design the additions and redesign the exteriors to be a modernized traditional shingle-style home. I was called into the firm’s principal, who chastised me for recommending synthetic trim and engineered shingles. The shingles I chose were pre-finished, and would still be performing well today, but instead, the house was finished in traditional wood, necessitating the expenditure of over $100,000 every three to four years for staining and painting. It was such a large expense that when I coincidently showed up 30 years later on that estate, to redesign for the new owner, they told me the surgeon grew tired of all the maintenance.

Wood columns are made in sections and bonded together at vertical seams. The sections are made from either steam-curved or shaped planks, cut to develop the rounded segments. You will notice that there has to be a space at the bottom to allow humidity and rain to drain and evaporate. Without that air space, the rotting is accelerated.

Because the columns will be painted, you’re better off with fiberglass columns, which come in a variety of shapes, lengths and styles. They are structural, and you’ll never need to replace them. Due to their stability, they hold a painted finish much longer, requiring painting only once a decade or two, but they still require an air space at the base.

The main reason for a permit isn’t just to have a piece of paper or cover the local government for liability should anyone get hurt. The permit process also confirms the replacement construction is safe and will last. The roof attachment, porch floor, foundation and how columns are spaced to transfer loads is critical. Incorrectly placed fastening, and a lack of structural checking and code compliance can create water problems and cause the replacement porch to require premature replacement. Just do things safely. Good luck!

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This ain’t Texas: We must end Hochul’s partisan war

When voters passed a constitutional amendment in 2014 creating New York’s Independent Redistricting Commission, the goal was clear: to take politics out of the process and put the people back in charge of drawing their political maps.

But Albany is at it again.

Democratic lawmakers are now pushing a constitutional amendment to allow mid-decade redistricting — not because the law requires it, and not because populations shifted, but because it might help them win. Their excuse? “Texas is doing it.”

That’s not governance. That’s retaliation. And it’s dangerous.

Let’s remember: In 2022, the Court of Appeals resoundingly struck down Albany Democrats’ gerrymandered maps for violating the state Constitution. It was a clear rebuke. The voters had spoken in 2014, and the court reaffirmed their will.

And yet, despite already spending over $20 million of taxpayer money on

lawyers, consultants and failed commissions, Albany Democrats want to try again. They want to build a permanent partisan escape hatch into the Constitution — so they can redraw maps whenever it suits them.

This time, they’re declaring war. Literally.

Gov. Kathy Hochul recently called for dismantling the IRC entirely, saying, “This is a war … the gloves are off … we’re done playing nice.” She even hosted Texas Democrats who fled their state to break a quorum over redistricting — then floated that New York should fight fire with fire.

This is not leadership. It’s constitutional vandalism.

VIntegrity. Instead it became a $10 million deadlocked commission whose maps were ignored. Lawmakers seized control, chaos ensued, and the courts had to clean up the mess.

Now Albany wants to enshrine that chaos into law.

oters should choose their representation — not the other way around.

Let me be clear: I’m not a Texas Republican, and I’m certainly not a New York Democrat trying to hijack our electorate. I’m a Long Island assemblyman who believes voters should choose their political representation — not the other way around. I believe in decency, the rule of law, and the idea that these ends do not justify the means.

And if this amendment passes the Legislature, I will see them in court.

The IRC may be imperfect, but it was created by the people of New York with one goal in mind: stability. Fairness.

Let’s look at the price we’ve already paid: $7 million in outside redistricting contracts; $3 million in State Senate legal fees; $1.5 million by the Assembly; and $2.4 million in direct litigation costs. All funded by taxpayers. And what has this endless redistricting battle delivered? Confusion. Distrust. Broken promises. The only thing worse than politicians choosing their voters is asking those voters to pay for it.

I won’t stand idly by while our Constitution becomes a casualty of partisan warfare. And I won’t let Hochul — or anyone else — rip it up just because they’re losing the game.

What we need now is not another power grab. We need a peace deal — not between political parties, but between our elected officials and the people of New York. A ceasefire in the redistricting wars. A commitment to play by the rules we all agreed to.

Because if we don’t, the consequenc-

es will cascade: more lawsuits, more court-drawn maps, more public cynicism. And while Albany’s political class obsesses over lines on a map, the real issues — our affordability, housing, immigration, mental health, insurance, and rampant fraud crises — go unaddressed.

This moment demands more than partisanship. It demands principle. If Albany Democrats push this amendment forward, they will betray the voters, break the public trust, and ignite another political firestorm. And I will meet them — with legislation, with public opposition and, if necessary, with litigation in both state and federal courts.

To my colleagues, I offer a final word of caution, and a plea: You don’t defend democracy by undermining it. You don’t restore public trust by rewriting rules to stay in power. You don’t govern by declaring war on the very voters you serve.

Let’s put the voters first. Let’s honor the Constitution. Let’s broker a peace deal — not to help one party win, but to help New Yorkers win, and heal. I stand ready to fight, but more important, I stand ready to lead.

If this becomes a war, I’ll see you in court. But I’d rather see us return to decency, together.

Jake Blumencranz represents the 15th Assembly District.

For Mets fans, this year was supposed to be different

in early June, I was planning my October.

The Mets, whose record at the time was 41–24, led the National League East by3½ games on June 7. They didn’t just look like contenders — they looked like one of the best teams in baseball. Their pitching rotation was sharp, leading the major leagues with an ERA of 2.4. Their bats were delivering timely hits. And for once, the bullpen didn’t make me want to walk into traffic. It was, dare I say, fun to be a Mets fan. But these are the Mets. Fun is fleeting. Hope is hazardous, and being a fan is not for the faint of heart. And now, two months later, I’m left wondering what happened to the team that had me believing. Since that June date, the Mets had gone 22–31 as of Sunday night. That’s not just a slump; that’s a collapse. At press time, they trailed the Philadelphia

Phillies by 5½ games in the N.L. East and were once again staring down the possibility of a late-season scramble just to get into the postseason. Sound familiar? It should. Last year’s agonizing, stress-filled play-in saga added to my existing gray hair.

And the worst part? It didn’t have to be this way.

In the days before the July 31 trade deadline, the front office made moves — smart ones, even. Acquiring left-hander Gregory Soto and right-handers Tyler Rogers and Ryan Helsley — all three are relievers — and outfielder Cedric Mullins.

Htheir heads.

ope is hazardous, and being a fan of this team is not for the faint of heart.

Being a Mets fan means riding the emotional equivalent of the Cyclone at Coney Island — except instead of screaming with joy, you’re mostly screaming at the bullpen. We’ve been here before: 2007, 2008, 2015’s near-miracle, 2022’s 101win team that fizzled in the Wild Card Series. Even last year’s appearance in the League Championship Series, just to lose to the Dodgers, felt like a cruel joke.

chises play meaningful baseball while we stew in what-ifs.

There’s still time. Two months remain, and the National League is crowded. If the Mets can rediscover what worked — if their arms stay healthy, if the lineup settles into a groove, if the new acquisitions mesh quickly — this team can still avoid the play-in.

They can still push deep. But those ifs are starting to feel heavier by the day.

They added those arms and a little pop to the lineup, trying to patch what was clearly fraying. For a moment, it looked like the front office had figured it out: Invest in the stretch run, avoid the one-game elimination trap and push for an actual run in October.

But good decisions in the front office don’t always translate into wins on the field. Injuries happened. Slumps happened. And maybe, just maybe, the pressure of being “the team to beat” got into

This year was supposed to be different. And for a while, it was. The earlyseason version of the Mets played like a complete team. Watching them was a reminder of why we stick with baseball — for the rhythms, the tension, the slowburn drama of a team finding itself. It felt earned. It felt genuine.

Now? I watch games bracing for the bullpen to unravel in the seventh inning. I second-guess every swing with runners in scoring position. I wonder if we’ve already seen the best this team has to offer — and if we’re about to spend another fall watching other fran-

Baseball is cruel that way. The highs don’t last. The lows can seem to stretch forever. And sometimes the worst thing the sport can give you isn’t heartbreak, it’s hope.

The frustrations and stresses of being a Mets fan have no boundaries. Especially after a weekend series in which they lost three games to the Central Division-leading Milwaukee Brewers. A team with so much promise now must pick up the pieces, starting this week with a series against its annual nemesis, the Atlanta Braves. So I’ll watch, and hope the turnaround starts there. Because I’m a Mets fan. And that is what we do.

Established 1994

Get involved — join your local civic association

We Long Islanders pride ourselves on our tight-knit neighborhoods — where we know our neighbors, care about our schools and keep an eye on the quality of life around us.

But strong communities don’t happen by accident. They take work, collaboration, and a willingness to roll up our sleeves when challenges arise. That’s where civic associations have a role.

Civic associations are the heartbeat of thriving communities, bringing neighbors together to solve problems, advocate for resources and foster meaningful connections. They are volunteerdriven organizations that give residents a collective voice and a platform for making changes. And in a time when so many people are frustrated by governmental red tape and feel disconnected from the work our legislators do, civic groups offer a way to take action where you live — and see the results.

Across Nassau and Suffolk counties, civic associations are tackling the issues that matter most to their residents: keeping streets safe, preserving open space, making infrastructure improvements, protecting the environment, supporting local businesses. They hold pub-

letters

Nassau County isn’t a police state. ICE is just making it

To the Editor:

lic forums at which residents can question elected officials face to face. They organize cleanup days to beautify parks and playgrounds. They rally for traffic safety measures, improved lighting, and the repair of roads and sidewalks. They speak out at zoning board meetings.

These groups also help knit together the social fabric of our neighborhoods. Civic associations often host holiday celebrations, block parties, cultural festivals, and other events that bring residents together. They foster a sense of belonging that is too often missing in our lives these days, when it’s easy to retreat behind doors and screens.

When residents band together, it’s harder for elected officials to ignore their concerns. A single phone call or email might go unanswered, but a unified letter from a civic association — backed by dozens, or hundreds, of neighbors — commands attention.

Long Island has a proud tradition of grassroots involvement. Many of our strongest civic victories — from preserving coastal wetlands to blocking irresponsible overdevelopment — were made possible by everyday residents who refused to sit on the sidelines. They showed up, spoke out and organized.

safer.

Re Claudia Borecky’s letter in the July 31-Aug. 6 issue, “Nassau County is showing signs of becoming a police state”: Perhaps another way of looking at County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s reallocating 10 brave detectives to work with Immigration and Customs Enforcement is that they are being deployed exactly where they should be.

They will be removing criminal illegals and continuing to make Nassau County safe. Dismantling gangs like MS-13 and Tren de Aragua, which are transnational criminal organizations, is another move toward public safety. Under the current administration’s immigration policies, securing our borders will reduce the volume of fentanyl that has been flowing into our country. This will save many thousand of lives per year.

As a proud first-generation immigrant, I am all for legal immigration. But in New York state, there has been a burden placed on our school systems and hospitals due to mass illegal immigration. The cost of housing illegals was estimated to be well into the billions in 2023 alone.

The Democratic party of my father is gone. Replacing it is a party of open borders, defunding the police, defending criminals, the “green new scam,” men in women’s sports, DEI, election

And they did it not for personal gain, but because they cared about the place they call home.

Civic associations need new members to survive — and that’s where you can help.

Too often, a small group of volunteers carries the load year after year. Without fresh ideas and extra hands, these groups risk fading away — along with the community’s ability to respond to challenges.

If you’ve never been to a meeting, try attending the next one in your area. You’ll learn about local issues, meet new neighbors, and see how quickly your voice can make a difference.

In the end, joining your local civic association is about more than fixing a pothole or stopping a bad development. It’s about ensuring that Long Island remains a place where people look out for one another, where our neighborhoods stay safe and welcoming, and where the future reflects the values we share.

Your community needs you. Those who show up — in person, around the table, ready to listen, prepared to speak and willing to work together, will write Long Island’s future. Be one of them.

interference, and high crime due to bail reform. National Democrats claim to be the party for women’s rights, yet turned a blind eye to the fact that so many of the women crossing the southern border

under the previous administration were raped. How many people were complicit with the cover-up of President Biden’s cognitive decline?

As the policies of the Trump adminis-

opinions

Nonprofit grant program helps secure houses of worship

aLaUra a. GiLLen

s the representative of New York’s 4th Congressional District, I am urging houses of worship across Nassau County’s South Shore to apply for the fiscal year 2025 Nonprofit Security Grant Program. The NSGP is a critical tool that provides federal funding to houses of worship and other nonprofits for security enhancements, including physical security infrastructure, emergency alert systems and certain contracted security personnel.

Earlier this month, I urged the acting administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to issue NSGP

grant applications for fiscal year 2025 during a hearing of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. I spoke directly with the acting administrator about how synagogues, churches and many other houses of worship and religious institutions across the South Shore rely on this critical funding to keep worshippers safe.

After months of delay, I am pleased that the administration has finally made these funds available for fiscal year 2025. My office has already begun working with houses of worship across the 4th District to prepare their applications, and I encourage all those interested in applying for this federal funding opportunity to reach out for more information on the application process.

a nd it’s an urgent need as we face an increase in hate and extremism.

must apply for the NSGP through the state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. More information on how to apply will be available from the division. In the meantime, I encourage houses of worship interested in applying to make use of the Getting Started Guide, available on the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services’ website, to make sure you are prepared to apply.

to safeguard our institutions is particularly urgent as we face an increase in hate and extremism in New York and across the country.

As threats against houses of worship rise, the need for contracted security personnel has become a reality for many of our faith-based communities. I have also spoken with faith leaders in my district about the need to increase the ability of houses of worship to use NSGP funding for those personnel. While that funding supports physical security enhancements, there is a real need to help reimburse personnel costs.

Houses of worship and nonprofits

Letters

tration start to take hold, we find secure borders, fair tariffs, lower fuel costs, multiple peace treaties, energy independence, and a renewed pride in the USA. The Democrats have tried to cheat, impeach (two times), bankrupt and imprison President Trump. I look forward to seeing the outrage and pearl clutching as the president presides over the country’s 250th anniversary, the 25th anniversary of Sept. 11 and the Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028. Coming soon, the hammer is going to drop on everyone involved win the Russian collusion hoax, with multiple mug shots to follow.

TOM O’CONNOR North Bellmore

Ryan will be missed at NUMC

To the Editor:

Under the leadership of Megan Ryan, the Nassau Health Care Corporation (NuHealth) experienced a revitalization that had been absent for over a decade. As CEO, Ryan brought back a clear mission and vision centered on patient care, operational integrity and long-term sustainability.

Her approach to restructuring the finance department significantly improved revenue through more efficient billing practices. In addition, Ryan expanded access to care by extending clinic hours to better serve our community. She led a successful fundraiser to acquire a

brand new, state-of-the-art Mammography Van, and construction is now underway for a first-time catheterization lab.

Ryan’s leadership extended beyond the walls of the Nassau University Medical Center. When it was revealed that New York state owed NuHealth nearly $1 billion in Medicaid funding, Ryan took action. She organized and financed a bus trip to Albany, where she and NuHealth employees lobbied lawmakers — having previously testified at budget hearings — demanding the funds NuHealth was rightfully owed. Her advocacy for NuHealth and its patients also included standing firm against the Nassau County Interim Finance Authority, which proposed downsizing. She fought to protect both the workforce and the quality of care for the community.

Ryan’s previous efforts had ensured that NuHealth continued to deliver high-quality services to families, even in the face of political and financial pressures. Unfortunately, it appears that those efforts to stand up for NuHealth’s interests drew political retaliation. The proposed state takeover of NuHealth by Gov. Kathy Hochul, with the help of NIFA’s chairman, Richard Kessel, may be viewed as silencing a CEO who had simply been doing what was right for the people.

Ryan should be commended, not condemned, for her courage, advocacy, and dedication to the community and employees she served.

I am committed to making sure that our religious institutions have the necessary resources to protect themselves so that every community can worship and practice religion free from fear. It is important to bring back more of our tax dollars from Washington to better protect our communities from terrorism and other threats. Securing this funding

The NSGP is a critical tool to help secure our houses of worship and other nonprofits. I will continue to work on this important issue, and look forward to helping these entities bring back federal dollars to keep our communities on Long Island safe.

Laura Gillen represents the 4th Congressional District.

Framework by Mallory Wilson