Oyster Bay Herald 07-25-2025

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Middle School, got the chance to perform live at Long island High School for the arts’ Summer arts academy.

Joel Foundation supports youth art education program

Three students from Locust Valley, Glen Cove and Bayville are making the most of their summer vacation, trading leisure time for spotlight moments through a prestigious arts training program — thanks to full scholarships from the Joel Foundation. Stella Fraser, 15, of Locust Valley; Rose Sullivan, 14, of Glen Cove; and Jack Kelly, 13, of Bayville were among 14 Long Island students awarded full scholarships to attend the Long Island High School for the Arts’ Summer Arts Academy, a four-week intensive program that offers pre-profes-

sional, conservatory-style training in Syosset. The Joel Foundation, co-founded by legendary musician Billy Joel and his wife, Alexis, has made it possible for these students, and many others, to access high-quality arts education without the financial burden that often limits access to programs of this caliber.

“My husband and I want young people on Long Island to have access to high-quality music education,” Alexis Joel wrote in a statement. “They should not have to leave Long Island to supplement their passion and career path. Programs like LIHSA’s Summer Arts Academy give students a place to grow,

It takes more than a village to fight a fire

When a fire breaks out on Nassau County’s North Shore, the sound of sirens doesn’t just mean one fire department is responding; it’s a call to a broader network of support.

In the villages and hamlets from Bayville to Glen Cove, fire departments collaborate through a system known as mutual aid, a coordinated response plan in which departments rely on one another for equipment, personnel and expertise.

owhile we’re dealing with the fire at hand.”

The coordination happens through Firecom, Nassau County’s centralized dispatch service, which maintains preplanned mutual aid responses that take into account the nature and severity of an emergency as well as its location.

nce you say you’re a firefighter, you’re welcomed in with open arms.

“At the transmission of a working fire, if we feel that it’s necessary to call in mutual aid units, we’re getting three other departments to the scene of the fire,” Francesco Barbera, chief of the Atlantic Steamer Fire Company, in Oyster Bay, explained. “They’ll come to our headquarters and Company No. 1’s headquarters and stay here in case another alarm comes over

Fire Company

“We’ll radio to them and we’ll tell them what we need,” Barbera said.

The mutual aid system is both highly organized and flexible. Any of the county’s 71 fire departments can request specialized resources such as dive teams, tankers or marine units, depending on the unique challenges of the call.

These plans have evolved over decades, and the countywide coordination infrastructure predates even the Avianca plane disaster of 1990, in which 73 people were killed when a jetliner crashed in Cove Neck.

“It’s been something that’s

Continued on page 2

Courtesy Long Island High School of the Arts
Jack Kelly, an incoming eighth-grader at Locust Valley

Departments share manpower, equipment

been in the works to have an overarching set of goals,” Barbera said. “And it’s been established.”

Each fire department retains the authority to set its own local mutual aid plans — what departments respond, when, and with what equipment. Those plans are reviewed and updated periodically, especially when leadership changes or new equipment comes into service.

“It’s at the chiefs’ discretion,” Barbera said. “It can change as often as every year or every two years, or might not change for years on end. You apply logic to it, right? What works and what doesn’t work.”

Working together effectively in emergencies also depends on regular communication and training among departments. That happens through joint drills, formal training nights at the Bethpage Fire Academy, and quarterly meetings of the chiefs of the Fifth Battalion, which comprises nine departments in northeastern Nassau County.

“We also have quarterly meetings of the chiefs at battalion chiefs’ meetings,” Frank Ozol, Atlantic Steamer’s second assistant chief, said. “After we have our meeting, let’s all go downstairs, take a look.”

According to Barbera and Ozol, that kind of hands-on familiarity is key to knowing which neighboring depart-

ments can be relied on for certain types of calls. For example, Bayville and Atlantic Steamer are the only departments in the county that operate water tankers, which are crucial when fires occur in areas without hydrants or where water needs to be transported across long distances.

“I remember we had a fire in Locust Valley years ago,” Ozol recalled. “They had hydrants, but they had a driveway on a five-acre estate that was like a half a mile long. In situations like that, the

tanker makes a huge difference.”

The inter-departmental cooperation isn’t limited to firefighting. When Glen Cove needed a dive team to search for a missing fisherman after a boat overturned over a decade ago, the department called Atlantic Steamer, having seen its dive gear at a battalion meeting.

While mutual aid has long been part of fire response in Nassau County, evolving technology and firefighting gear have reshaped the job.

“Back in the day when you were

wearing roll-up boots and a trench coat and guys didn’t even have packs — now you’re fully encapsulated from head to toe, carrying an air pack, which is 40 pounds,” Barbera said. “You’re fatiguing the guys out a lot quicker than you used to.”

Ozol, who has been fighting fires since the late 1960s, noted that advances in fire science, better breathing equipment and more protective clothing have made fighting fires in buildings and homes safer and more effective, but also more physically demanding.

As fire departments across Long Island, and the country, continue to face recruitment challenges, the mutual aid system has only grown in importance. “I think it’s ultra critical,” Barbera said. “Because we’re all struggling. Everybody’s hurting for members.”

The strength of the mutual aid network lies not just in equipment or response times, but also in the relationships and trust departments build over years of working and training together. In a region where firefighters may live in one town and work in another, those ties are personal as well as professional.

“It’s a big family,” Barbera said. “We had a guy here the other day from Dublin. He was in the Dublin Fire Department, and his kids moved to Oyster Bay. He came by and we gave him a tour. Once you say you’re a firefighter, you’re welcomed in with open arms.”

A fairytale castle nestled in Locust Valley

A whimsical piece of European history nestled in Bailey Arboretum has been brought back to life after a major restoration, part of wider efforts to continue to make the historic space more welcoming to the community.

A miniature German castle, originally constructed in 1934 by German immigrant Joseph Schuhmacher for his daughter Alma, has long been a hidden treasure on the arboretum’s 42-acre grounds. For decades, time, weather and overzealous young climbers had reduced the structure to a crumbling shadow of its former self.

“So this castle was in huge disrepair as long as I’ve been involved here,” said Jan Hagner, a board member of Friends of Nassau County Bailey Arboretum. “And the granddaughter of the family that donated to the arboretum paid to have it restored last year. Now it reminds you of a fairy tale, which it was originally intended to.”

The $25,000 restoration, funded by Schuhmacher’s granddaughter Marlene Rehkamp O’Brien, was completed in fall 2024. The work, which included structural repairs using original materials like mica-laced schist and slate, was performed over a month by a restoration expert. Only one turret from the original structure could be salvaged.

Unfortunately, recent acts of vandalism have once again damaged the castle. Repairs are expected to cost approximately $3,000, and the board members encourage visitors to make sure their children do not climb on or touch the structure.

Despite the setback, the Friends of Bailey remain focused on continuing the arboretum’s transformation into a more family-friendly destination.

“Our intention is to clear all this out and have little trees and bushes around it,” board member Susan Giordano said.

The castle is located near Bailey’s Children’s Habitat, a natural play area established in 2009. It has become a focal point for visiting families.

“It connects with our children’s habitat,” Hagner said. “It’s just one more thing for families to come. It’s a circle of love.”

Future plans include installing a teepee and musical instruments to enhance the play area and linking it with Bailey’s newly restored sensory garden.

“We always try and, like, as we review our finances, put some money aside to do some upgrading here,” Hagner said.

The arboretum will also host the Grenville Baker Boys & Girls Club’s annual Old Fashioned Clam Bake on Aug. 23. To support the arboretum’s work and help with ongoing maintenance and improvements, donations can be made at BaileyArboretum.org.

Bailey Arboretum houses hidden gems to enjoy nature in, such as seating on Turtle Island.
Will Sheeline/Herald photos
The castle was constructed in 1924 by German immigrant Joseph Schuhmacher, who wanted his daughter to be reminded of the castles he had seen in his homeland as a child.
The arboretum is home to the world’s largest Dawn Redwood, a species of tree introduced from Szechuan in China.
Board members Susan Giordano, left, and Jan Hagner played some of the outdoor instruments available in the Children’s Habitat.

Protecting Your Future

In Elder Law Estate Planning There’s More Misinformation than Information

Recently, we came across an article by a syndicated columnist that claimed that if you put your house into an irrevocable trust you lose your exclusion from the capital gains tax on the sale of the primary residence — $500,000 for a couple and $250,000 for a single person. The writer, being a financial planner and not a trust and estates lawyer, and despite claiming to be an “expert”, was apparently unaware that there are many different types of irrevocable trusts. One of the most common irrevocable trusts, the Medicaid Asset Protect Trust (MAPT), is designed to preserve these exclusions. MAPT’s are “grantor trusts” which mean they remain in the grantor’s name for all income and capital gains tax purposes. This leads into a very common problem. Too often, clients receive advice on trusts from financial advisors, accountants and family lawyers, believing they are getting a professional opinion. We say that what they are actually getting is a personal opinion coming out of a professional’s mouth.

We often make the analogy that if, unfortunately, you have cancer then you want to

get advice from an oncologist, not your family doctor. If you have an elder law estate planning problem, you want to talk to an elder law estate planning attorney, not your general lawyer, financial advisor or accountant. Well-meaning professionals often give incorrect information.

Here are the most common myths about the MAPT:

• Myth: You can’t sell the house - Reality: We have done it thousands of times. The money is paid to the trust and remains protected. The trust can purchase another house, a condominium or simply invest the money and pay you the income.

• Myth: You can’t change the trust - Reality: You may change the trustees, or who you are leaving it to, at any time.

• Myth: You can’t take money out of the trust

- Reality: You get all the income (interest and dividends) and you may gift virtually any amount tax-free to your children.

• Myth: You cannot undo the trust - Reality: In New York you may revoke an irrevocable trust on the consent of all named parties. If one will not sign, we have a workaround.

ETTINGER LAW FIRM

NEWS BRIEFS

New passports available for town residents

To help residents looking to obtain new passports, the Town of Oyster Bay Clerk’s Office will offer a special onestop passport weekend on Aug. 9 and August 10 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at both Town Hall North in Oyster Bay and Town Hall South in Massapequa. Residents are required to book appointments in advance.

“Residents looking to apply for a new passport are invited to visit Town Hall during passport weekend to receive assistance,” said Town Clerk Rich LaMarca. “We can help you with organizing your documents, obtaining a photo and submitting the documents for approval.”

Requirements for applying for a passport include:

■ One 2x2 color photograph with a clear view of the applicant’s face against a plain white or light colored background. Photos will also be available for $10 at both Town Halls North and South during passport weekend.

■ Proof of U.S. Citizenship – Previously issued undamaged U.S. passport, cer-

tified birth certificate, consular report of birth abroad or certification of birth, naturalization certificate, or certificate of citizenship.

■ Proof of Identity – Naturalization certificate, valid driver’s license (cannot have been issued or renewed in the last six months), current government ID (city, state or federal), current military ID (military and dependents).

■ This service does NOT apply to adult renewals unless the passport is expired for over five years.

LaMarca has offices located at Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Avenue in Oyster Bay and Town Hall South, 977 Hicksville Road in Massapequa. Passport appointments are available Monday through Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and during this passport weekend. For appointments in Oyster Bay, call (516) 624-6324. For appointments in Massapequa, call (516) 797-7962.

For information on passport requirements and processing times, as well as instructions for passport renewals, visit Travel.State.gov.

Hockey clinic opens for O.B. Islanders fans

A special New York Islanders learnto-play Hockey Clinic is returning to the Town of Oyster Bay for children ages 5 through 9 and includes 8 on-ice training sessions beginning on Aug. 6. Part of The Future Islanders Program, this clinic introduces the game of hockey to young children and serves as a transition program for first-time players interested in house leagues.

“We are pleased to partner with the New York Islanders to offer this exciting clinic for children looking to learn the fundamentals of hockey in a fun environment,” said Town Councilman Andrew Monteleone. “This Future Islanders program, taught by former players and coaching staff from the New York Islanders organization, includes hands-on training skills and all necessary equipment in the early stages

of learning hockey.”

Sessions of the ‘Learn to Play’ clinic will be offered on Wednesdays at 6:15 p.m. or Thursdays at 6:00 p.m. at the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center, located at 1001 Stewart Avenue, Bethpage. The program will run from Aug. 6 through September 25.

Registration is $295 per child and includes full hockey equipment for firsttime participants (jersey, stick, gloves, helmet, skates, shoulder pads, pants, shin guards, equipment bag.) There will also be special appearances by Isles alumni Arron Asham and Radek Martinek.

Registration is now open and space is limited. For more information, visit NewYorkIslanders.com/learntoplay or contact jocelyne.cummings@newyorkislanders.com or call (516) 501-6764.

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oyster bay

Area teenagers shine in elite arts program

be challenged, and find their voice. Nassau BOCES, along with our foundation, have worked to pair world-class artists, dancers and professional musicians with LIHSA students at the Syosset campus. This access is game-changing for children. We are so proud of this collaboration as we prepare our students for success in any path they pursue.”

The Summer Arts Academy serves as both a skill-building opportunity and a trial run for those considering LIHSA’s year-round programs. With 89 students enrolled in the 2025 session, the academy offers tracks in musical theater, music performance, visual art, film, scene-construction and game design. Students spend nearly six hours a day immersed in their disciplines, culminating in live performances.

Kelly, an incoming eighth-grader at Locust Valley Middle School and a pianist, took part in the Art of the Band program. Though he didn’t play piano during camp, he brought his keyboard skills to life alongside vocalists and guitarists — something he had never experienced before.

“My mom found the program while looking for summer camps,” he said. “We saw the scholarship and thought it would be good for me to go here.” His group performed “Fly Me to the Moon,” by Bart

Howard; “Pressure,” by Billy Joel; and “Santeria,” by Sublime. “I think my improvising skills greatly improved,” Kelly added, noting that students began each morning by jamming to a new chord progression. “We were taught more about music theory, and every day we had to build on it.”

Sullivan, an incoming freshman at Glen Cove High School, joined the musical theater program, and will perform in a production of “Beetlejuice” at LISHA during the academy’s final week.

“Ever since I was very little, I would always sing,” Sullivan said, recalling how listening to Taylor Swift with her family sparked her love of music. She sings at St. Patrick’s Church, in Glen Cove, and has been part of school and community choruses since third grade. “I do whatever I can to keep music part of my life,” she said.

really professional.”

She plays Maxie Dean in “Beetlejuice,” and takes part in group numbers like “Day-O (The Banana Boat Song).”

The experience has affirmed her desire to pursue theater long-term. “This program solidified that I want to do theater in high school,” Sullivan said, “but I probably already knew that.”

Fraser, a rising sophomore at Locust Valley High School, already has years of musical theater experience under her belt, including performances in “Once Upon a Mattress” and cabarets at Don’t Tell Mama, in Manhattan. But LIHSA’s program, she said, raised the bar. “My mom was looking for a more professional-level camp where I could do a full production,” she said of the musical theatre program. “I knew some students already here and thought it would be a great opportunity.”

with a group that’s this talented.”

LIHSA Assistant Principal Lindsay Rogan said that the goal of the Summer Arts Academy is to challenge and nurture students while preparing them for professional careers or advanced academic training. “Rose and her colleagues are getting the experience of working at a professional pace and level,” Rogan said. “It stretches them as artists and prepares them for competitive college programs and life in the arts.”

She emphasized the impact of the Joel Foundation’s funding. “The full scholarships make it possible for students who otherwise would not be able to attend,” Rogan said. “And when they come here, we see them grow as artists. They return to their home schools in the fall with new skills, greater confidence and a passion for the arts that stands out.”

Sullivan, a mezzo-soprano, said the fast pace of the program has been challenging but invigorating. “We come in around 8:30 a.m., do physical and vocal warmups, and then split into groups to block scenes or learn choreography,” she explained. “After lunch, we either continue rehearsals or run the show. It’s

Fraser, a soprano, said the biggest difference was the program’s intensity. “During the school year, we usually have months to prepare a show. Here we’re doing it all in four weeks — setbuilding, choreography, vocals. It’s a lot in a short time,” she said. “But everyone here is so good, and it’s so nice to work

Locust Valley Library

AUGUST PROGRAMS

For more information visit us at: www.locustvalleylibrary.org

Perfumery Workshop

Saturday, August 9 at 11:30 AM

Explore the science of perfumery in this hands-on workshop led by Rey Foyouzi, founder of Rey Foyouzi Perfumery. Create your own fragrance to take home. A $25 material fee is required.

Create and Express

Monday, August 11 at 6 PM

An introduction to the idea of art as wellness. Presented by Cassandra Stoffers, Community Wellness Specialist at CEC Health Care.

Retirement Planning Workshop Thursday, August 14 at 6 PM

Uncover secrets to building a robust retirement portfolio, understanding investment options, and navigating the complexities of retirement income. Presented by PALUMBO Wealth Management of Great Neck.,

Empire Defensive Driving Class Friday, August 15 from 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM Register online. Cost is $33 per person. Pay by cash or credit card (https://square.link/u/hdDH2RKc), a $2 processing fee is applied or bring payment day of class.

Medicaid Help is Here with Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council Tuesday, August 19 from 10 AM - 2 PM No registration required.

With enrollment still open for LIHSA’s 2025-26 academic year, staff members hope that programs like the Summer Arts Academy will inspire more students to apply through their school districts. “We believe that arts education is life-changing,” Rogan said. “Whether our students pursue careers in the arts or not, the discipline, creativity and collaboration they develop here will serve them for life.”

ONGOING PROGRAMS

CREATIVE WRITING CONSULTATION

SATURDAY, AUGUST 2 FROM 12:30 - 1:30 PM

LOCAL POET IN RESIDENCE PATTI TANA IS AVAILABLE FOR ONE-ON-ONE CONSULTATIONS WITH ASPIRING WRITERS SEEKING AN EDITOR’S PERSPECTIVE.

MATINEE THURSDAY AT 1 PM BOOK TO MOVIE READ IT, WATCH IT, TALK ABOUT IT AUGUST 14 - LORD OF THE FLIES 1 HR, 32 MIN - RATED PG-13

YOUNG ARTIST SHOWCASE AUGUST 5 FROM 6 - 7:30 PM

JOIN US TO CELEBRATE THE AMAZING ART WORK THE COMMUNITY YOUTH HAVE TO OFFER!

Stella FraSer

Entrepreneur and veteran Robert Kramer, 89

Robert “Bob” Kramer, 89, a longtime East Norwich resident and former vice president of personnel at Pergament Home Centers, died July 11 after a nearly decade-long battle with kidney cancer.

Born on Dec. 18, 1936 in Evansville, Indiana, Kramer’s early years were marked by humble beginnings according to his family. He lived for a time in a farmhouse in Ft. Myers, Florida, without running water or indoor plumbing. In his early teens, his mother moved the family back to Brooklyn, where Kramer finished his education before enlisting in the Army in 1954. He served in the Third U.S. Infantry Regiment, an Honor Guard unit stationed in Washington, D.C. known as “the Old Guard” since it is the oldest active unit in the Army.

“He was a very, very proud American,” his daughter, Lynn Kramer, said of his service. “He just was a very giving person and proud of his service.”

Following his time in the military, Kramer met his wife Joan in 1956 at Stella D’Oro Italian Restaurant in Kew Garden Hills. The two were married for 69 years and raised their children, Lynn

and Mitch, in the home they built in East Norwich in 1965.

Throughout his life, his daughter said Kramer embodied the values of self-reliance, hard work and generosity. He ran several businesses, including a chain of dry cleaners in Queens and Great Neck, and later a fiberglass factory in Staten Island.

Even after a fire destroyed the factory, Kramer remained resilient, eventually finding a home at Pergament Home Centers, where he worked for over three decades. Starting as personnel director, he quickly rose to vice president.

But more than his title, his daughter said it was his philosophy of giving others a chance that defined his impact.

“My dad had changed so many people’s lives because he was very innovative,” Lynn said, “and he was a very big believer in giving people chances to succeed where maybe other people might not have given them a chance.”

Kramer also instilled the value of entrepreneurship and responsibility in his children.

“If there’s anything you want, you have to work for it in order to get it,” Lynn recalled her father saying. “He taught us about record keeping, writing

receipts, how to build things and fix things ourselves.”

That business spirit carried into a family woodworking venture, where the Kramers crafted chess boards, terrariums and wood toys, eventually selling at flea markets and even Fortunoff’s in Westbury. Kramer kept small handmade wooden cars in his car to give to wellbehaved children in restaurants as surprise gifts, one of many acts of quiet kindness that defined his life.

“He would literally give the shirt off his back if somebody needed it,” Lynn said. “Every winter he’d go up and down the street clearing snow off everybody’s driveways before even doing his own.”

In retirement, Kramer’s favorite pastimes included spending time with his family and visiting casinos to play poker. Even after his cancer diagnosis in 2016, he maintained a positive attitude and appreciation for the care he received.

He is survived by his wife Joan, daughter Lynn, son Mitch, daughter-inlaw Donna, and granddog Dottie. He will be remembered not only as a dedicated family man, but as a generous neighbor, mentor, and builder of opportunities for others.

Courtesy Kramer family Robert Kramer lived in East Norwich in 1965, where he raised two children, ran multiple businesses, volunteered in the community and woodworked and played poker in his spare time.

Making the most of summer in Oyster Bay

With Oyster Bay in the middle of summer, the hamlet is enjoying one of the most beautiful periods of the year. While the humidity has not been quite as kind this season, the lovely flora, stunning sunrises and refreshing water of the Sound more than make up for it.

Noelle Hatalovsky/Herald photos
The waters of Oyster Bay Harbor offer a chance to cool of from the summer sun.
Walking along the waterfront and dockyard in Oyster Bay one can see the result of centuries of baymen working the waters.
School may be out for the summer, but the scenic weather can make even class look appealing.
The flowers are in full bloom as summer is in full swing.
Oyster Bay’s historic buildings come into their own during the height of summer.

ON THE ROAD WITH A TAKEOUT QUEEN

Soulmates on Plates

I’ve always felt like a misfit. No matter who I’m with, I feel as if I’m the quirky one. So, when I go out to eat, I gravitate toward dishes with offbeat, unexpected combinations of ingredients that somehow come together. I guess I’m looking for a food soulmate. This month, I found food soulmates in two new restaurants, plus one that’s reopening and another under new management.

Max & Mina’s Pop Up

(96 South St., Oyster Bay)

This new ice cream summer pop up shop is a haven for those who love to try flavors they’ve never seen before. To name a few, there are ice cream scoops called Entenmann’s Crumb Donut, Raspberry Cinnamon Muffin, Chocolate Fudge Poundcake, Cap’n Crunch Oreo and Cap’n Crunch Peanut Butter. My food soulmate is the Sponge Bob ice cream because I’m a sponge as well. I absorb all the problems in the world plus my own and sink to the bottom of the ocean.

Ravagh Persian Grill

tossed salad the next day. I marvel at the offbeat combinations I create that somehow come together.

La Bottega

(6245 Northern Blvd., East Norwich)

In this newest addition to the La Bottega restaurants, the menu matches the one in Glen Cove. It features chicken, meat, steak, turkey and vegetarian entrees, as well as six types of bruschetta, soups, salads, tacos, pizza and pasta. I couldn’t resist trying the pea, zucchini and leek soup because I’d never tasted those vegetables together in a bowl. Now, I can’t get enough of this perfectly pureed, silky soup the isn’t made with milk or cream. Each mouthful brings me back to my grandmother’s kitchen.

Arata’s Deli

(303 Sea Cliff Ave., Sea Cliff)

PureCare is more than just a pharmacy; it’s a European-inspired destination where quality care meets luxurious living.

At the heart of our mission is the belief that everyone deserves to live fully. Every visit to PureCare is designed to be a meaningful experience, where we don’t just meet your needs, we enhance your well-being

To provide truly personalized care, we offer VIP Concierge Services to help you feel and look your best.

(210 Mineola Ave., Roslyn Heights)

After a recent renovation, this family-friendly restaurant has a chic, sleek setting with an inviting vibe. For those who search for unusual food combinations, there are 16 kabobs to choose from including lamb chop kabobs and Cornish hen kabobs. Five traditional stews join authentic Persian appetizers, soups, falafels and salads. (The Shirazi salad is my favorite.)

I must say, the unexpected ingredients in the basmati rice specials have become my dearest friends. The Zereshk Polo basmati rice dish includes almonds, pistachios and saffron. The Albaloo Polo basmati dish includes sweet and sour cherries, and the Green Rice version dances with dill and fava beans. The portions are large, so I bring the leftovers home and mix them in a

This longtime neighborhood deli is under new management. So, every time I walk into the store there’s something new on the shelves. I’m most excited about the purple Coleslaw (made with purple cabbage). It’s super fresh, delightfully crunchy and it’s not drowning in mayonnaise. I’m happy I found a purple food soulmate.

For breakfast, the egg sandwiches are a huge hit. There are also muffins, bagels and cups of the finest Columbian coffee. The lunch menu is blossoming with sandwiches plus chicken cutlets and sides. As the weather gets cooler, the new owner, Matt Garry, told me he’ll offer heartier lunches such as chicken parmigiana and meatloaf with gravy. He said, “I’m figuring out what customers want, and I welcome suggestions. Someone asked for rainbow bagels and now they’re here.” Hmmm…what can I ask for?

See you next month!

Visit purecarepharmacyny.com or scan the QR code below to learn more!

One lucky member of the audience will WIN 2 TICKETS to watch New York Mets vs San Francisco Giants at Citi Field. Sunday, August 3 at 1:40 p.m. Contest ends July 27 at midnight with the winner chosen on July 28

Directions for ticket acquisition will be explained when winner is contacted.

Meet Oyster Bay’s youngest board member

The Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District has officially appointed Giovanna Lisa as the 2025-2026 student liaison to the Board of Education, giving the 17-year-old East Norwich resident a seat at the table to represent her classmates’ voices.

Lisa, a rising senior at Oyster Bay High School, brings a wide array of experience to the role. A self-described active member of the school community, she participates in numerous clubs and music ensembles, including Students Against Destructive Decisions, pit band, jazz band, and the school’s Wind Ensemble.

“I feel like I’m very active in my school community,” Lisa said. “I’m also a pretty dedicated writer. I really enjoyed my time in my class, AP Lang, AP Language and Composition, and I write a lot of poetry and things like that.”

Lisa plays the clarinet, and her involvement in pit band for the high school’s spring musical has given her a sense of the time commitment and dedication required for a leadership position.

“Pit band required a lot of responsibility, a lot of scheduling,” she said. “There would be Tech Week, which is this long week where you have to stay really late after school, so you have to communicate with your teachers about homework. You have to communicate with the director about anything that’s going on.”

Lisa first learned about the opportunity when she was called to the guidance counselor’s office near the end of the school year.

“They said, ‘We’re picking like students that we

think would really fit for the role of senior liaison,’” she said. “I was like, ‘You know what? This sounds like a pretty interesting role.’ I feel like I have the experiences to take on this role in a really effective way.”

Her past leadership roles include serving as treasurer of the International Club, where she will be president next year, which helped hone her communication and organizational skills.

The selection process was multi-layered. Lisa was first elected senior liaison through the Student Council, before submitting a written application that included essay responses and letters of recommendation from two teachers.

“You have to be a junior currently and will be senior next year, of course,” she explained. “You have to be in the Student Council, be in good academic and behavioral standing, write short essay questions, and then you also need to have two teachers write letters of recommendation.”

She interviewed with a panel of administrators, teachers, and guidance counselors, and learned she was selected the following week.

“I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, I’m so happy. I’m so proud of myself. I actually did it. This is fantastic’,” she said. “It was just a very, extremely happy experience for me.”

Now in her new role, Lisa is looking forward to acting as a bridge between students and district leadership.

“I’m most excited to just have an important role in my school,” she said. “Talking about comments that my peers have and then bringing that back to the board and being like this collaborative person and really congregate with adults about certain topics that the school has is really exciting.”

Courtesy Giovanna Lisa
Giovanna Lisa, 17, left, was sworn into the Oyster Bay-East Norwich Board of Education on July 3. Superintendent Francesco Ianni praised her intelligence, character and good attitude.

Suozzi says cuts to Medicaid are ‘heartless’

In a virtual town hall that drew more than 13,000 participants, U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi addressed a range of constituents’ concerns across Long Island and Queens on July 21 — from the chilling effect of recent immigration enforcement to mounting anxiety over Medicaid cuts and the housing crisis.

The event, livestreamed on Facebook and accessible by phone, offered voters a chance to speak directly with Suozzi, a Democrat who represents New York’s 3rd Congressional District — a swing district that former President Donald Trump won by 19,000 votes in 2020. Suozzi said he gained re-election in the district by building a bipartisan coalition and now serves as chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus, a group of 25 Democrats and 25 Republicans.

“I’ve got voices in my head all the time — not just my own — but from people across the political spectrum,” Suozzi said. “Some are terrified about what’s happening in our democracy, and others think we need to shake things up. But most just want us to work together and solve real problems.”

One of the most discussed topics during the hour-long forum was the recent changes to Medicaid eligibility requirements. A caller named Sam, who

works at a nursing home in Nassau County, said several residents had been evicted after losing coverage due to confusion over new rules in the recently passed “One Big Beautiful Bill,” which Suozzi derided as the “Big Ugly Bill.”

“It’s just heartless,” Suozzi said. “To pay for tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans by cutting off health care and food benefits for the most vulnerable — it’s morally wrong and economically backward.”

Suozzi explained that 93 percent of Medicaid recipients who can work already do, and that many who cannot are caregivers or people with disabilities. He also warned of a ripple effect on hospitals and insurance premiums, saying that as more people lose Medicaid coverage, they will turn to emergency rooms for care — driving up costs for everyone.

Suozzi pledged to have his office assist residents in navigating the new requirements and said he would explore launching a public awareness campaign to help people retain their benefits. “Government bureaucracy is hard enough for anyone to deal with — let alone people in desperate situations,” he said.

Sherry, a caller from Glen Cove, shifted the conversation to the skyrocketing cost of housing on Long Island. “I’ve been working for 37 years and I

still can’t afford the rent,” she said, adding that so-called “affordable housing” often exceeds $3,000 for a one-bedroom.

Suozzi acknowledged that housing costs were a crisis across the nation and called for a return to basic economic principles. “If you work hard, you should be able to afford a home, feed your kids, and retire without fear,” he said.

He proposed using profits from the government-run Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae mortgage conservatorships — an estimated $250 billion — to fund affordable housing construction using union labor. “We need to build more housing, especially in our downtowns, to lower rents and bring back the middle class,” Suozzi said.

Another caller, Toria from Bayville, raised concerns about stagnant wages and soaring credit card interest rates. Suozzi agreed that the federal minimum wage, still $7.25 an hour in 20 states, was far too low. “On Long Island, even $15 an hour is barely enough to live,” he said. “America needs a raise.”

He also acknowledged that he had not yet studied credit card interest rate legislation in depth, but agreed that the lack of regulation — especially on rates as high as 25 percent or more — was unfair to people forced to rely on credit for basic needs. “It’s usury, plain and simple,” he said. “And it’s a sin.”

U.S. Representative Tom Suozzi spoke to constituents across Long Island and Queens at a virtual town hall on July 21.

In closing, Suozzi called for continued public engagement and cooperation across party lines. “If we keep going eye for an eye, we’re all going to end up blind,” he said. “But I’ve got faith in the people and in our system.”

Stay Connected this Year:

Propel project sparks debate at G.C. hearing

Dozens of North Shore residents crowded into the Knights of Columbus hall in Glen Cove on Tuesday to voice opposition to the proposed Propel NY Energy project, a $3.26 billion underground network of transmission lines slated to be routed through local neighborhoods and under Hempstead Harbor. While state officials say the initiative would modernize New York’s power grid and boost clean-energy access, residents and business owners say the cost to their communities would be too high.

The afternoon hearing, hosted by the New York State Public Service Commission, featured impassioned testimony from nearly every speaker, all but a few of whom opposed the project. The transmission line would pass through Glen Head, Glenwood Landing and Glen Cove to a new substation in Glen Head, and extend under the Long Island Sound to Westchester County.

Nassau County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, the Legislature’s minority leader and a Glen Cove resident, said she could not support the project in its current form, despite being a Democrat, like Gov. Kathy Hochul, and an advocate of green energy.

Thaven’t seen any hydrology studies on how this project might affect our water supply.”

Sea Cliff real estate agent Dawn Costello warned that the proposed cable route would pass close to four of the area’s five schools, and that construction would exacerbate already severe traffic congestion. “This project would be a direct hit to our small businesses,” she said.

Lauren Peart, owner of a new insurance agency in Glen Head, said she learned of the project only after opening her business. “I was planning to buy a home here and raise my child here,” she said. “Now, with concerns about (electricial and magnetic fields) radiation and construction, I no longer feel safe. Please do not do this.”

After the hearing, Shannon Baxevanis, director of public affairs for New York Transco, one of two developers working with the New York Power Authority, emphasized the project’s long-term benefits.

his project would be a direct hit to our small businesses.

“I have major concerns,” DeRiggi-Whitton said in her testimony. “This is not the first time I’ve come out publicly. Everyone loves the idea of green energy, but the transparency here is sorely lacking. It’s been incredibly difficult to get accurate information.”

She also noted the PSC’s prior handling of rate hikes by American Water and Liberty Water in Sea Cliff, saying her trust in the commission had eroded after residents were “left behind” during past rate restructuring. “I couldn’t even get a meeting with them then,” DeRiggiWhitton said. “Now we’re here again, asking for answers we can’t get.”

She raised environmental concerns about lithium-ion battery storage units she believes will be part of the infrastructure despite developers’ denials. She cited studies on battery fires and potential contamination of the North Shore’s sensitive water table.

“My home is within the four-mile risk radius,” she added. “This is personal.”

Other residents shared similar worries. Nancy Benchimol, president of the Gold Coast Public Library, said she feared that traffic disruptions along Glen Head Road could severely impact access to the new library building now under construction, especially with the expected uptick in population as a result of new development in Glen Cove.

“Our library is more than books — it’s the center of our community,” Benchimol said. “Even minor disruptions can have big consequences for our residents, especially children and seniors. And we

“This is not new technology,” Baxevanis said. “New York already has 241 miles of underground 345-kilovolt cables operating safely, many in densely populated areas like New York City and Long Island.”

She noted that the cables would meet state safety thresholds. “Electric fields are eliminated because the cables are buried and shielded,” Baxevanis said.

She also addressed concerns about transparency. “We’ve held over 26 community meetings and pop-up events, mailed notices to property owners and met with municipalities and civic groups,” she said. “We’re always in a cycle of evaluating how we can do better.”

Baxevanis acknowledged traffic concerns, but said that construction crews would work in rolling segments of 150 feet per day. “Our goal is to get in, install safely and efficiently, then get out,” she said. “And anything disturbed will be restored to prior or better condition.”

Despite those assurances, many of the attendees said they remained skeptical. Several questioned the relevance of the project in light of the PSC’s recent decision to cancel a separate offshore wind cable project into New York City, citing permit delays and cost issues.

Residents also emphasized the need for detailed economic disclosures, such as how local school districts, libraries and municipalities would be compensated — something they said the Long Island Power Authority had done in the past.

Construction on the Propel NY Energy is expected to begin in mid-2026 and continue through 2030, pending PSC approval, which hinges on whether the project receives a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need.

STEPPING OUT Forever ‘Wild about Harry’

The beat goes on in the annual tribute to the beloved musician

Decades have passed since Harry Chapin’s tragic death, still his music and philanthropic initiatives remain at the heart of Long Island’s collective consciousness. Stuart Markus, the longtime mainstay of the local folk and acoustic scene, is committed to guardianship of the Chapin legacy, organizing what are now two memorial concerts each year.

Markus, based in Malverne, is clearly as fervent about Chapin’s music and humanitarian zeal as when he took on the role of organizing the tribute 22 years ago. From its start at Hall’s Pond Park in West Hempstead in 2004 to what became its longtime home at Chapin’s namesake theater in Eisenhower Park, and now in its second year at the Chapin Rainbow Stage at Huntington’s Heckscher Park, the concert’s appeal continues to grow. So much so that a second show has been added — at the Landmark theater in Port Washington on Dec. 2.

“Sunday Morning Sunshine.”

Meanwhile over 30 musicians will gather with fans, on Sunday, to share in the joy of the man and his music.

“Sometimes it’s hard to believe I’m still at this,” he reflects. “[After the first concert] I thought it would be cool to do this for a couple of years. Ultimately it became a cultural phenomenon.”

Folks livestream the event around the world, according Markus, who relates an unexpected email he received from a fan in Scotland.

“He wanted to plan a vacation around the concert, Markus says, chuckling, about the international response. “As long as there is enthusiasm, then I’ll keep doing it.”

Certainly that fervor shows no signs of waning.

“I’ve long thought it would be wonderful and extremely appropriate to do the show in Huntington, where Harry and Sandy lived and raised their family,” Markus says. “Harry is still held in such beloved regard by residents and public officials at all levels.”

Chapin’s shocking death on the Long Island Expressway en route to that ill-fated Eisenhower Park performance in July 1981 is very much rooted this tribute — for performers and the audience. In fact, several show regulars were among the crowd when what was supposed to be a joyous event turned into a vigil, according to Markus.

“Harry is so beloved in memory on Long Island,” Markus says. “You don’t have to look too hard to find someone who met him, whose school he did a benefit for, or someone who’s been helped by one of his charities. It’s so meaningful for the music community to come together and, in effect, do the concert he might have given.”

The troubadour’s catalogue always gets a creative interpretation by each act.

“I’ve always encouraged everyne to make the songs fresh and treat them as their own, however they imagine them. They’re not just reproducing them the way Harry did.”

Markus excited to include guitarist Gerald Bair, a longstanding member of Huntington’s folk scene, in this year’s lineup. Bair performs his rendition of

“A fan favorite, it’s an optimistic happy song about being in love,” Markus says.

Cantor Lisa Wharton, of Temple Beth Emeth in Mount Sinai, who performs with her husband Akiva Wharton, a percussionist, and Cantor Judy Merrick, of Plainview Jewish Center, return for their second appearance. They’ll do “I Wonder What Would Happen,” which Markus describes as an appropriately chosen “spiritual, gospel-feeling song.”

“They were a well-received addition last year and we’re glad to have them back, he adds.

The trio is, of course, joined by staples of the area’s music community. Returnees include Judith Zweiman, Martha Trachtenberg, Karen Bella, Roger Silverberg, Debra Lynne, Patricia Shih and Stephen Fricker, Roger Street Friedman, Media Crime, Christine Solimeno, Grand Folk Railroad, Robinson Treacher, Wonderous Stories, Toby Tobias, Mara Levine and Matthew Ponsot, in various ensembles.

As is their signature, Markus, with his trio Gathering Time, arrive on stage as the show nears its conclusion. Markus, with Christine Sweeney and Gerry McKeveny, perform their annual rendition of the iconic “Cat’s in the Cradle.” By then everyone is singing along.

Finally, as always, in the true spirit of Harry Chapin, all the musicians join together on stage for “Circle,” Chapin’s traditional closing.

“It’s such a philosophical but uplifting song and a fitting end,” Markus adds.

Just the way Chapin would want it.

More than just a concert, the free event, of course, involves a food drive. Concertgoers are asked to bring donations of nonperishable items to support Long Island Cares, the regional food bank and humanitarian organization founded by Chapin in 1980. Long Island Cares’ staff and volunteers will collect donations at a tent near the entrance to the stage.

Bring seating to the show, which is held rain or shine. It will also be livestreamed on Facebook and the Harry Chapin Foundation YouTube channel.

Magical Mystery Doors

If you missed Magical Mystery Doors during the band’s spring visit to Long Island, now’s your chance to check out this unique tribute act. The tight bandmates blend and layer the music to create something new and unique. The Beatles, Led Zeppelin and The Doors changed the face of music as we know it. Their melodies have moved people everywhere to “Come Together” in their love of music. And that’s what happens at an MMD concert. Throughout the concert, the band combines some of these classic tunes in ways that surprise and delight time and time again. The melody from The Doors’ “Hello, I Love You” laying atop Led Zeppelin’s “Misty Mountain Hop.” The pounding beat of Zep’s “When The Levee Breaks” coupled with the serene strumming of The Beatles’ “Dear Prudence.” Also the thematic sequence of “The Rain Song” – “Riders On The Storm” – “Here Comes The Sun.” These arrangements take you on an unexpected and exhilarating journey. Friday, July 25, 8 p.m. Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. Tickets available at madisontheatreny.org or call (516) 323-4444.

Best of Broadway

Sounds of the Great White Way return to Eisenhower Park with Neil Berg’s “100 Years of Broadway.” Back for its annual celebration of the greatest songs from the finest shows, the acclaimed touring Broadway concert never disappoints. The lively musical revue, hosted by Neil Berg, on piano, brings performers to light up the stage with songs from the hit shows in which they starred. He presents creatively revived arrangements of Broadway classics as well as thrilling numbers from some of the newest hits, along with his fascinating commentary and historical notes in between songs. This gorgeous, guided tour of the American art form that is musical theater, is a production both hypnotic and historical. The dazzling new edition is sure to have everyone humming along. Berg, an awardwinning composer-lyricist-producer, and his cast of vocal powerhouses brings everyone to their feet time and again.

Saturday, July 26, 7 p.m. Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, Eisenhower Park, East Meadow. Contact nassaucountyny.gov for more.

• Sunday, July 27, 8 p.m.
• Admission is free
• Heckscher Park, located off Main Street (Route 25A) and Prime Avenue, Huntington
Photos courtesy Keith Rossin
Everyone gathers to salute Harry Chapin during the rousing finale that closes the concert.
Cantors Judy Merrick, left, Lisa Ann Wharton and Akiva Wharton are all in for Harry.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

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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 entertainmentrelated 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 Folies-Bergère in Paris. On view until Nov. 9.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: Ongoing

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

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Mindful

Morning View Nassau County Museum of Art’s galleries in a small group session. Take time to observe, question and reflect without hurry, distraction, or judgment. Explore one or two works of art in the galleries, with intention as you focus on color, texture, form and personal connections during the series of three sessions. Join for as many sessions as you like. Each will be a different opportunity to enjoy art together. Program is capped at 12 people. $20 per session, $10 members. Registration required.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: 10-11 a.m., also Aug. 8 and Aug. 22

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

Little Learners’ Water Animals

Planting Fields Little Learners series continues with adventure for the little ones to explore the wonders of pond life. Listen to a pond-themed nature story, exploring the fascinating animals that live in and around the water. Then, get creative by making a froggy friend puppet to take home. The fun doesn’t stop there, alsoexplore the sensory

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Magic Rocks!

introductory class led by Donatas Nacajus of Ballroom Boutique, Mondays, and take your first steps on the dance floor with confidence and style. The aim is to teach you how to move to the music, as well as the passion and character of dance. Sign up for one class or all three. Experience is not needed, no partner required and all ages are welcome. $66, class series; $29 for one class.

• Where: 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point

• Time: 7-8 p.m., also Aug. 4 and Aug. 11

• Contact: sandspointpreserveconservancy. org or call (516) 571-7901

Water Authority Meeting

The Water Authority of North Shore meets. It continues its mission to acquire the privately held water supply systemon the North Shore.

• Where: 200 Glen Head Road, Glen Head

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: info@wanorthshoreny. gov

• Time: 7 p.m.

Illusionist Leon Etienne has sold out venues all over the world with his blockbuster performances of Magic Rocks! Now he arrives on Long Island with his jaw-dropping, critically acclaimed hit show. You’ve seen him on “America’s Got Talent,” “The Tonight Show” with Jimmy Fallon, “Masters of Illusion,” and “Penn & Teller: Fool Us!” Hailed by critics as “America’s Rock Illusionist,” Leon is a worldwide hit with audiences, critics and producers. He’s recognized for his onstage charisma, a fast-paced, high energy, rock n’ roll performance style — and his no-nonsense approach to magic. This interactive, family-friendly spectacular showcases mind-blowing tricks, award-winning sleight of hand and non-stop laughter. Perfect for audiences of all ages, it’s an immersive experience filled with wonder, laughter and jaw-dropping moments you won’t soon forget. From Radio City Music Hall to Planet Hollywood Casino and from Studio City Casino in Macau to his very own theater on the beautiful island waters of Saipan, Etienne’s performance style attracts worldwide attention. Join in this unforgettable night of magic and you’ll see why. $71.75, $60.25, $49.25, $37.25, $31.25.

pond, where hands-on discovery awaits. For ages 2-5. Registration required. $15 per child.

• Where: Education Center, 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay

• Time: 10-11 p.m.

• Contact: plantingfields.org or call (516) 922-9210

Walking with the Olmsteads

Step into a world where history and horticulture intertwine on this guided walking tour of Planting Fields. Explore the stunning landscapes shaped by the renowned Olmsted Brothers firm and discover how W.R. Coe’s vision transformed this estate into a living masterpiece. As you wander through lush gardens, winding pathways, and historic structures, you’ll uncover stories of the Coe family’s lasting influence and the artistic brilliance of the Olmsteds’ naturalistic designs. From vibrant seasonal blooms and majestic trees to elegant architectural details, each stop reveals a new chapter in this extraordinary estate’s history. Also take the time to visit the Main House.

• Where: 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay

• Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.; also Aug. 1

• Contact: plantingfields.org or call (516) 922-9210

Dancing in the Streets

The Oyster Bay Main Street Association presents their annual Dancing in the Streets, Fridays, right in the heart of Oyster Bay. Welcoming all ages and skill levels, each evening features live music, group dance instruction, and feel-good vibes in the heart of the hamlet’s historic downtown.

• Where: 74 Audrey Ave.

• Time: 6:30-9:30 p.m., through Aug. 15

• Contact: (516) 922-6982 or info@oysterbaymainstreet.org

Unbox A-Saurus

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Dr. Patricia Osiris visits with young paleontologists from Long Island Children’s Museum’s “Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed” gallery. She plans to unveil a never-beforeseen dinosaur, if she can find a way to open its crate. Join her in the LICM Theater for this highly interactive show, when the audience will assist Dr. Patti in this “scientific” comedy. $5 with museum admission, $10 theater only.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; also July 30

• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

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

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

Monthly

meditation

Join H.E Gegye Yongyal Tulku Rinpoche, a 3rd seat reincarnate Buddhist Master and scholar in Buddhism, for one-hour session mindful meditation session at Planting Fields.. The program harnesses the profound natural qualities of Planting Fields park, which serves as a place of peace for many. The sessions take place in a different location on the site and teach participants how to lead more mindful lives through meditation. Whether you’re experienced or someone new to mindfulness, these sessions offer a gentle yet profound way to quiet your thoughts, release stress and experience the deep stillness that comes from aligning with the natural world. No prior experience is necessary. Registration required.

• Where: 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay

• Time: Ongoing monthly, 8:30-9:30 a.m.

• Contact: plantingfields.org or call (516) 922-9210

JULY

Step on the dance floor

Take the first step and learn how to dance today. Discover the joy of ballroom dance in a fun, relaxed setting at the Sands Point Preserve. Join an

JULY 30

‘Ceaselessly Into The Past’ Visit Sands Point Preserve for a tour and talk on how 100 years of “The Great Gatsby” shaped life on the Gold Coast. Start with a guided tour of Hempstead House, one of the grand Gold Coast mansions that provided the inspirational backdrop for F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel. Then, instructors from The Story Round lead a table discussion on the novel’s lasting impact on the North Shore and Port Washington. Admission is $25, $20 members. Purchase tickets online.

• Where: 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point

• Time: 6:30-8 p.m.

• Contact: sandspointpreserveconservancy

FREE CONCERTS in the Park at 7:00pm

2025 TITLE SPONSOR

SPONSORED BY DATES

RXR

The Terian Family/Rallye Motor Company

Bruce and Roberta Waller

- In Honor of the Suozzi Family

Glen Cove Neighborhood Association

Golden Benefactors

In Memory of Nancy Epstein

Sondra and David Mack

PSEG

Glen Cove Hospital

Golden Benefactors

July 6 | “GLEN COVE NIGHT”

Headliner: The Lords of 52nd Street featuring Richie Cannata

The Music of Billy Joel. Also performing Glen Cove High School Select Chorale and Shyezee (Shye Roberts), Talented Contestant on Season 26 of “The Voice”

July 13 | Kenny & Luke’s Country Beach Party

The Music of Kenny Chesney & Luke Bryan

July 20 | Netty & Friends and The Men of Soul

An Evening of Soul, Motown and R&B

July 27 | Beginnings

A Celebration of the Music of Chicago

August 3 | Harvest

An Evening of Neil Young

August 10 | Gershwin and Bernstein on Broadway Massapequa Philharmonic - David Bernard, Conductor

August 17 | The Midtown Men

Jersey Boys cast members perform songs from the 60s

August 24 | Are You Ready for It? - A Taylor Experience

The Music of Taylor Swift

August 31 | Miami Sound Revue

The Music of Gloria Estefan and the Miami Sound Machine

Morgan Park overlooks the harbor at Germaine Street between Landing Road and McLoughlin Street in Glen Cove. Bring chairs or blankets, and a picnic if you wish. Children are welcome.

Morgan Park Summer Music Festival is a not-for-profit organization, administered by an all-volunteer team. No taxpayer money is used or requested for these concerts. Our seasons of professional, family-oriented performances are funded entirely through tax-deductible contributions. Website: morganparkmusic.org Email: morganparkmusic@yahoo.com Find Us On Facebook

All concerts are subject to change. Call 516-671-0017 for information and updates.

Public Notices

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SNAP/TANF/FDPIR Households: Households that currently include children who receive the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) but who are not found during the Direct Certification Matching Process (DCMP), or households that currently receive Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), or the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) must complete an Application for Free and Reduced Price School Meals/Milk, listing the child’s name, a valid SNAP, TANF, or FDPIR case number and the signature of an adult household member. Eligibility for free eligibility benefits based on participation in SNAP, TANF or FDPIR is extended to all children in the household. When known to the School Food Authority, households will be notified of their children’s eligibility for free benefits based on their participation in the SNAP, TANF or the FDPIR programs. No application is necessary if the household was notified by the SFA their children have been directly certified. If the household is not sure if their children have been directly certified, the household should contact the school.

Other Source Categorical Eligibility: When known to the School Food Authority, households will be notified of any child’s eligibility for free eligibility benefits based on the individual child’s designation as Other Source Categorically Eligible, as defined by law. Children are determined Other Source Categorically Eligible if they are Homeless, Migrant, Runaway, a foster child, or Enrolled in Head Start or an eligible pre-kindergarten program. Foster children that are under the legal responsibility of a foster care agency or court, are eligible for free benefits. Any foster child in the household is eligible for free eligibility benefits regardless of income. A separate application for a foster child is no longer necessary. Foster children may also be included as a member of the foster family if the foster family chooses to also apply for benefits for other children. Including children in foster care as household members may help other children in the household qualify for benefits. If non-foster children in a foster family are not eligible for free or reduced-price meal benefits, an eligible foster child will still receive free benefits

If children or households receive benefits under Assistance Programs or Other Source Categorically Eligible Programs and are not listed on the notice of eligibility and are not notified by the School Food Authority of their free meal benefits, the parent or guardian should contact the school or should submit an income application.

Other Households: Households may complete the Application for Free and Reduced-Price School Meals/Milk sent home with the letter to parents. One application for all children in the household should be submitted. Additional copies are available at the principal’s office in each school. Applications may be submitted any time during the school year to Ingrid Wright at 22 Horse Hollow Road, Locust Valley, NY 11560. Please contact Ingrid Wright at 516-277-5020 with any questions regarding the application process.

Households notified of their children’s eligibility must contact the School Food Authority if they choose to decline the free meal benefits. Households may apply for benefits at any time throughout the school year. Children of parents or guardians who become unemployed or experience a financial hardship mid-year may become eligible for free and reduced-price meals or free milk at any point during the school year.

Children in households receiving Women, Infants and Children (WIC) benefits may be eligible for free or reduced-price meals through the application process.

For up to 30 operating days into the new school year (or until a new eligibility determination is made, whichever comes first) an individual child’s free or reduced-price eligibility status from the previous year will continue within the same School Food Authority.

The information provided on the application will be confidential and will be used for determining eligibility. The names and eligibility status of participants may also be used for the allocation of funds to federal education programs such as Title I and National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), State health or State education programs, provided the State agency or local education agency administers the programs, and for federal, State or local means-tested nutrition programs with eligibility standards comparable to the NSLP. Eligibility information may also be released to programs authorized under the National School Lunch Act (NSLA) or the Child Nutrition Act (CNA). The release of information to any program or entity not specifically authorized by the NSLA will require a written consent statement from the parent or guardian.

The School Food Authority does, however, have the right to verify at any time during the school year the information on the application

Under the provisions of the policy, the designated official will review applications and determine eligibility. If a parent is dissatisfied with the ruling of the designated official, he/she may make a request either orally or in writing for a hearing to appeal the decision Karen Horoszewski, Asst Superintendent for Business, whose address is 22 Horse Hollow Road, Locust Valley, NY 11560 has been designated as the Hearing Official. Hearing procedures are outlined in the policy. However, prior to initiating the hearing procedure, the parent or School Food Authority may request a conference to provide an opportunity for the parent and official to discuss the situation, present information, and obtain an explanation of the data submitted in the application or the decisions rendered. The request for a conference shall not in any way prejudice or diminish the right to a fair hearing.

Only complete applications can be approved. This includes complete and accurate information regarding: the SNAP, TANF, or FDPIR case number; the names of all household members; on an income application, the last four digits of the social security number of the person who signs the form or an indication that the adult does not have one, and the amount and source of income received by each household member. In addition, the parent or guardian must sign the application form, certifying the information is true and correct.

In the operation of child feeding programs, no child will be discriminated against because of race, sex, color, national origin, age, disability or limited English proficiency.

In accordance with federal civil rights law and USDA civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its agencies, offices, employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the state or local agency that administers the program or contact USDA through the Telecommunications Relay Service at 711 (voice and TTY). Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at How to File a Program Discrimination Complaint and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:

•       mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; or          • fax: (833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442; or          • email: program.intake@usda.gov This institution is an equal opportunity provider. 1310719

LEGAL NOTICE

LOCUST VALLEY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

22 HORSE HOLLOW ROAD

LOCUST VALLEY, NY 11560

The Board of Education of the Locust Valley Central School District (hereinafter referred to as the “District”) hereby invites the submission of proposals for the following professional services: UNIVERSAL PREKINDERGARTEN PROGRAM

Due Date: August 1, 2025 at 11:00am Specifications and forms may be obtained from the Business Office beginning July 24, 2025 or you may request a copy by email to khoroszewski@locustv alleyschools.org. All addenda will be transmitted via email. 154772

LEGAL NOTICE

Oyster Bay - East Norwich Public Library Board Meetings are open to the public and are typically held on the 3rd Monday of each month at 7:30 pm unless otherwise noted, but are subject to change. Additional meetings may be scheduled when necessary 154798

LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE

INC. VILLAGE OF LAUREL HOLLOWBOARD OF ZONING APPEALS

Laurel Hollow Road, Laurel Hollow, NY to consider the following: ZV4-2025: The public hearing on the application of Marciano Stanco on behalf of Gary Andriotis to construct an accessory building (garage) at 44 Timber Ridge Drive, Laurel Hollow, NY, where the proposed structure does not comply with the following section of the Laurel Hollow Zoning Code:

1.No accessory building shall exceed 25% of the building area of the principal building, and in no event shall the building area of an accessory building exceed 1,000 square feet as per Section 145-5 A.(1)(c) of the Laurel Hollow Zoning Code. The proposed garage has a building area of 1,480 square feet, which represents 51.4% of the building area of the principal dwelling.

2.No accessory building shall exceed 25% of the building area of the principal building, and in no event shall the building area of an accessory building exceed 1,000 square feet as per Section 145-5 A.(1)(c) of the Laurel Hollow Zoning Code. The proposed garage has a building area of 1,480 square feet, which exceeds the maximum building area of an accessory building by 480 square feet.

Nondiscrimination Statement: This explains what to do if you believe you have been treated unfairly.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a public hearing and meeting will be held by and before the Board of Zoning Appeals of the Inc. Village of Laurel Hollow, Nassau County, New York, on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 6:00 P.M. at the Village Hall, 1492

3.An accessory building or structure having a building area of more than 500 square feet up to 1,000 square feet shall be set back at least 50 feet from every lot line not abutting a street as per Section 145-5 B.(2) of the Laurel Hollow Zoning Code. The proposed garage is greater than 500 square feet and is set back 34.9 feet from the side property line.

4.No accessory building or structure shall exceed 20 feet in height as per Section 145-5 C. of the Laurel Hollow Zoning Code. The proposed garage has a height of 25.1 feet as calculated according to the Code. This property is designated as Section 26 Block 2 Lot 11 on the Land and Tax Map of Nassau County.

ZS6-2025: The public hearing on the application of Marciano Stanco on behalf of Gary Andriotis to construct an accessory building (garage) at 44 Timber Ridge Drive, Laurel Hollow, NY, where the proposed structure does not comply with the following section of the Laurel Hollow Zoning Code:

1.Section 145-12(A)(2) states that within any steep or very steep slope area, no disturbance of the land or any vegetation thereon.… shall be permitted without a permit from the Village of Laurel Hollow Board of Zoning Appeals. The proposal will disturb very steep slope areas. This property is designated as Section 26 Block 2 Lot 11 on the Land and Tax Map of Nassau County.

ZV5-2025: The public hearing on the application of Edward Gleason on behalf of Joseph and Danielle Vitagliano to maintain various accessory structures at 1576 Laurel Hollow Road, Laurel Hollow, NY where the proposed structures do not comply with the following sections of the Laurel Hollow Zoning Code:

1.An accessory building or structure having a building area of up to 500 square feet shall be set back at least 40

feet from every lot line not abutting a street, according to Section 145-5 B.(2) of The Laurel Hollow Zoning Code. The 156 square foot Existing Masonry Shed is proposed to be maintained with a 17.7 foot set back from the side yard property line.

2.An accessory building or structure having a building area of up to 500 square feet shall be set back at least 40 feet from every lot line not abutting a street, according to Section 145-5 B.(2) of The Laurel Hollow Zoning Code. The 94 square foot Existing Tool Shed is proposed to be maintained with a 23.4 foot set back from the side yard property line.

3.An accessory building or structure having a building area of up to 500 square feet shall be set back at least 40 feet from every lot line not abutting a street, according to Section 145-5 B.(2) of the Laurel Hollow Zoning Code. The Existing “LILCO Elect. Box” is proposed to be maintained with a 16.2 foot set back from the side yard property line.

4.An accessory building or structure having a building area of up to 500 square feet shall be set back at least 40 feet from every lot line not abutting a street, according to Section 145-5 B.(2) of the Laurel Hollow Zoning Code. The Existing “Electric Panels” are proposed to be maintained with a 13.1 foot set back from the side yard property line.

5.An accessory building or structure having a building area of up to 500 square feet shall be set back at least 40 feet from every lot line not abutting a street, according to Section 145-5 B.(2) of the Laurel Hollow Zoning Code. The Existing

Public Notices

“Garbage Enclosure” is proposed to be maintained with a 30.1 foot set back from the side yard property line. This property is designated as Section 26 Block 2 Lots 19 on the Land and Tax Map of Nassau County.

By Order of the Board of Zoning Appeals

Russell Mohr, Chairman July 16, 2025 154771

LEGAL NOTICE

INCORPORATED

VILLAGE OF LAUREL

HOLLOW

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that, on July 15, 2025, after a Public Hearing duly held by the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Laurel Hollow, the following local law was adopted by the Board of Trustees:

Local Law No. 2-2025

A LOCAL LAW authorizing the Board of Trustees, to amend Chapter 125, Trees Local Law No. 3-2025

A LOCAL LAW authorizing the Board of Trustees, to amend Chapter 110, Streets and Sidewalks Local Law No. 4-2025

A LOCAL LAW

authorizing the Board of Trustees, to amend Chapter 85, Peace and Good Order Local Law No. 5-2025

A LOCAL LAW authorizing the Board of Trustees, to amend Chapter 124, Members of the Board of Zoning Appeals and Planning Board

Copies of the local law, as adopted, are available at Village Hall for review. This local law was effective immediately upon filing in the office of the Secretary of State.

By Order of the Board of Trustees

Dated: July 16, 2025

Cathryn Hillmann Clerk-Treasurer 154770

CATHERINE RAMONA

HARPER AKA

CATHERINE R. HARPER

AKA CATHERINE HARPER; MELVIN HARPER NKA

EBESWAMB MBAKA, AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF CATHERINE RAMONA HARPER AKA

CATHERINE R. HARPER

AKA CATHERINE HARPER, if he be living and if he be dead, the respective heirs-at-law, next-of-kin, distributes, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said defendant who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or inheritance, lien or otherwise any right, title or interest in or to the real property described in the complaint; NATHALIA SELTMAN AKA

NATHALIA BANKS, AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF CATHERINE RAMONA HARPER AKA

CATHERINE R. HARPER

AKA CATHERINE HARPER; DORIAN PEREZ, AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF CATHERINE RAMONA HARPER AKA

CATHERINE R. HARPER

AKA CATHERINE HARPER; KATHRYN RAMONA HARPER, AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF CATHERINE RAMONA HARPER AKA

CATHERINE R. HARPER

AKA CATHERINE HARPER; VERONICA S. HARPER, AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JOHN HARPER, AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF RAMONA HARPER AKA

CATHERINE R. HARPER AKA CATHERINE HARPER; ANY AND ALL KNOWN OR UNKNOWN HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHER PARTIES CLAIMING AN INTEREST BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST THE ESTATE OF JOHN HARPER; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, ACTING ON BEHALF OF THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, ACTING ON BEHALF OF DEPARTMENT OF TREASURY - INTERNAL

REVENUE SERVICE; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; DISCOVER BANK; BANK OF AMERICA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO FIA CARD SERVICES, N.A.; EBONY HAMM AS JOHN DOE #1, Defendants - Index No. 006294/2013

Plaintiff Designates Nassau County as the Place of Trial. The Basis of Venue is that the subject action is situated in Nassau County. To the above named DefendantsYOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff’s Attorney(s) within 20 days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. That this Second Supplemental Summons is being filed pursuant to an order of the court dated July 1, 2025. NOTICE-YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOMEIf you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH

THE COURT. The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of the Honorable R. Bruce Cozzens, Jr., J.S.C. Dated: July 1, 2025 Filed: July 8, 2025. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage and covering the premises known as 65 1st Street, Locust Valley, NY 11560. Dated: March 23, 2025 Filed: July 9, 2025 Greenspoon Marder LLP, Attorney for Plaintiff, By: Monica G. Christie, Esq., 1345 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 2200, New York, NY 10105 P: (212) 524-5000 F: (212) 524-5050 No Service by fax) Service purposes only: Trade Centre South 100 W. Cypress Creek Road, Suite 700, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 P: (888) 491-1120 F: (954) 343-6982 154738

LEGAL NOTICE VILLAGE OF UPPER BROOKVILLE BOARD OF APPEALS

PUBLIC NOTICE CORRECTED NOTICE

A continued public hearing and meeting will be held before and by the Board of Appeals of the Incorporated Village of Upper Brookville, Nassau County, New York at the Village Hall - 24 Wolver Hollow Road on July 30, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.

The continued hearing will be on the amended appeal of LJC-KZD, LLC, owner of a parcel of land located at 1611 Cedar Swamp Road in the Village, designated as Section 18, Block A, Lot 1006 on the Nassau County Land and Tax Map, and located within the Village=s R-1 (2acre) zoning district.

The Appellants seek variances to maintain the following construction:

1.Basement walkout patio with steps to grade which has a side yard setback of 59.7 feet rather than the required 75 feet and is located within a regulated slopeland;

2.Utility equipment pad which has a side yard setback from Old Cedar Swamp Road of 60.3 feet rather than the required 75 feet.

The Appellant also seeks variances to permit the following construction:

1.Courtyard which would have a side yard setback of 69.4 feet from Old Cedar Swamp Road rather than the required 75 feet; 2.Retaining wall which

It Takes a Village

Dear Great Book Guru, My friends and I love StoryTime at Sea Cliff Beach. Every Wednesday throughout the summer at 10:30 we meet up for a story, songs, and a bubble parade under the lovely blue canvases. Last week, one of the parents mentioned a new book made up of the voices of twenty-one residents of a small village in County Limerick. It sounds interesting – thoughts?

Storytime Fan

Dear Storytime Fan, Donal Ryan’s “Heart Beat Peace” tells the story of a village coming back from disastrous economic turmoil. But old grudges and new problems beset the community.

Twenty-one residents -all interconnected - tell their stories in short, lyrical chapters. Bobby is a middle-aged man with a loving wife and a booming business but is beset with terrible rage. Milly is a young girl torn by love for her grandmother and a very dangerous

THE GREAT BOOK GURU NEWS BRIEF

young man. Pokey is a young man running a bogus school that provides illegal visas. Lily is a witch by training and makes her living selling potions to needy neighbors.

Dylan is a young boy who was kidnapped for two days and troubled for years after. Sean is torturing a lifelong friend with compromising photos. Jim is a retired policeman who says: “Madness comes circling aroundevery ten years - as sure as the sun rises.”

Each of the residents tells his/her story and we come to see the value of village life and – yes - its vexations. Some stories are more nuanced but all show a deep understanding of difficult situations - the most difficult being an insidious drug ring. Both young and old are impacted and the eventual resolution is disturbing but inevitable. Recommended! Would you like to ask the Great Book Guru for a book suggestion? Contact her at annmdipietro@gmail.com.

Town residents invited to submit photos

Town of Oyster Bay residents are invited to submit photos taken in the communities in the town to be considered for future use in official publications.

“We accept photos year-round submitted by our residents which depict people, places, community events and scenery throughout our Town,” said Town Councilman Andrew Monteleone. “We accept photos for the calendar, as well as other town publications, including our website, social media pages and brochures.”

Monteleone noted that photos should be taken within the confines of the Town of Oyster Bay. Digital submis-

would have a side yard setback of 53.8 feet rather than the required 75 feet and which would be located in a regulated slopeland. The above application is on file at the office of Humes & Wagner, LLP, attorneys for the Village, 147 Forest Avenue, Locust Valley, New York where it may be seen by appointment during the regular hours of the usual business days until the time of the hearing.

All interested persons will be given an opportunity to be heard at said time and place. If any individual requires special assistance to attend, please notify the Village Attorney at 516676-4600 at least 48 hours in advance of the hearing. Philip H. Wachtler Chairman Z-458 July 18, 2025 154808

sions are preferred, but high-quality photos may also be submitted. Emailed photos should be sent to photos@oysterbay-ny.gov.

Printed photos can be submitted to the Town’s Public Information Office, 54 Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay NY 11771. Residents should make sure their name, address, phone number and brief description of the photo are included with their submission.

The photographer is responsible for the correct spelling of the names and subjects in the photos, as well as notifying subjects they may appear in a Town publication.

ANN DIPIETRO

OPINIONS

Admiration of a former president from across the aisle

When I was elected to Congress in 1992, I certainly didn’t anticipate the close working relationship I would have with Bill Clinton, who was elected president that year. I was a lifelong Republican from New York, elected with strong Conservative Party support. Clinton was a staunch Democrat from Arkansas with roots in the anti-war movement.

I had met him in Manhattan in April 1992, two days before New York’s Democratic presidential primary. I was still the Nassau County comptroller, and had not yet announced my candidacy for Congress. A group of New York Irish-American Democrats led by elder statesman Paul O’Dwyer had scheduled a meeting with Clinton and his remaining challenger, Jerry Brown, the former California governor. Though we were far apart on the political spectrum, O’Dwyer and I were good friends.

When Clinton arrived, I was standing in the rear of the room. He made a brief opening statement before answering questions from a panel of four. What I

It’s

Iquickly noted was his relaxed familiarity with Ireland’s 800-year struggle with Britain and its most recent iteration, the more than two decades of war being waged in the streets and hills of Northern Ireland, euphemistically labeled “the Troubles.” There were no pandering references to green beer or shamrocks. Nor did he make the ritualistic denunciation of terrorism.

HIn an answer to a burning issue that would have lasting consequences later, Clinton said he would grant a visa to Gerry Adams, the leader of Sinn Fein, the political party affiliated with the Irish Republican Army. He also said the United States had the obligation to speak out against human rights violations even if the offending nation was Britain, our closest ally. More than what he said was his ease in dealing with an issue that rendered most politicians tongue-tied or made them fall back on timeworn clichés.

comptroller was — and with both of us being entirely unaware how much our lives would be interlocked over the next several years, and not just on the Irish issue.

onoring Carolyn McCarthy recently, Bill Clinton was as eloquent as ever.

Remaining in the back of the room while photos were being taken near the front, I waited until Clinton was leaving the room by the rear door. I shook his hand, and said, “Good job, Governor.” He smiled, thanked me and walked on, not having the slightest idea or caring in the least who the Nassau County

Clinton went on to become the 42nd president, and just a year later kept his campaign promise when he granted Adams a visa to enter the United States, which was followed by meetings with Adams in the White House and Congress, which caused seismic reactions throughout the British government and the American State Department as well. But Clinton’s leadership and determination, which included unprecedented presidential visits to the most dangerous locations in Northern Ireland, on which I accompanied him, as well as the diplomatic alliances he forged with British and Irish Prime Ministers Tony Blair and Bertie Ahern, led to the signing of the Good Friday Agreement in April 1998, ending that brutal 800-year-long struggle.

There was more to the Clinton years than Ireland. There was also his decisive action that successfully ended the Balkan wars in Bosnia and Kosovo. Domestically, he worked across the aisle with Newt Gingrich to achieve welfare reform as well as the only balanced bud-

get in the more than three decades since.

While all this was happening, of course, Clinton faced the first presidential impeachment in more than 130 years, and until then only the second in American history. While he had made serious mistakes in judgment, I strongly believed that what he was accused of did not meet the Constitution’s requirements for impeachment, or for removing from office the duly elected president, and would set a dangerous precedent for future presidencies. I was proud to stand with Clinton as one of only two Republicans who voted against all four articles of impeachment. And I have never questioned that decision.

All this and more came rushing back to me several weeks ago, when I joined Clinton as one of the speakers at the Celebration of Life for former Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy, who died last month. Though he had been out of office for almost 25 years, the former president was as eloquent as ever, movingly describing his admiration and affection for McCarthy’s heroism and strength of character in overcoming horrific personal tragedy to achieve so much good for America. Once again, President Clinton came through.

Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.

long past time to shut down the cellphone

am a person of infinite patience. My friends compliment me on my ability to patiently listen to ideas from both sides of the aisle. I love watching the daily news on my laptop and on my cellphone. I read opinion columns, and occasionally get to read a nonfiction book on some current topic. But I must confess that I am now in a state of news overload. I’m not quite sure when this illness kicked in, but if you think about all of the news events in recent weeks, you’ll easily understand why I, or anyone, could easily fall into a state of media-nausea. I think the first story that engulfed my ability to digest facts was President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill.” Shortly after it passed in the House of Representatives, my phone began ringing off the hook with calls from important clients, asking about the impact of the budget cuts on Medicaid, SNAP and

other significant programs.

Alerted to the terms of the bill, I began a line-by-line review, and became more horrified once I understood the scope of the cuts. I couldn’t understand how the House could find billions of dollars to cut from Medicaid and claim that they were all related to rooting out “waste, fraud and abuse.”

Taking food away from children isn’t the way to save taxpayers real money. By mid-June I was wilting under the barrage of calls asking for advice on how to get the attention of the region’s federal officials.

F
irst the bill, then the primary, then Epstein. It’s time to escape, and to ditch the device.

Come July, the Senate bill was ready for a formal vote, and its contents were even uglier. Rather than scale back the Medicaid cuts, the Senate found ways to increase them. The promised expansion of the SALT cap was altered to providing three years of an expanded credit and then reducing it to the old $10,000 cap. The elimination of taxes on Social Security disappeared, and the no-taxes-on-tips provision is scheduled to expire after 2028.

Now, weeks later, I’m being asked who I favor in the contest between Andrew Cuomo and Eric Adams. I have no preference between the two, but there appears to be no way to beat Mamdani unless there is one independent candidate. At this point, neither Adams nor Cuomo shows any signs of getting out of the race in the interest of harmony. If both stay in, there’s no chance that Mamdani can be stopped.

Always looking on the bright side, I was pleased that the bill included such items as raising the state-and-local-taxes deduction cap to $40,000, and reduced taxes on tips and Social Security and many other goodies that were consistent with promises Trump made. I assumed that the Senate would support many provisions of the House bill and trim the Medicaid cuts. I assured many of my callers that there was hope that cooler heads would prevail, and the Senate bill would be palatable.

The torrent of calls asking for my opinion had just about ended when New York City Democrats chose the inexperienced Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani as their nominee for mayor. When the final results came in on primary night, I shut down my cellphone. Dozens of friends and neighbors wanted to know how to stop Mamdani. Ironically, many of them didn’t vote in the primary because they were registered Republicans or independents, and in some cases they were registered Democrats who failed to vote. I refused to console any qualified voter who failed to vote.

Burdened by all of these panicked calls, I decided that the best thing I can do for my wife, Suzan, and I is to go away for a week or so and maybe shut down my phone. I can check messages from time to time, but that’s it. We’re leaving in search of a change of scenery.

No sooner I had made our airline reservations than the Jeffrey Epstein saga erupted. I told callers that we weren’t interested in visiting Epstein’s island or anywhere else attached to his name. My cellphone is now in the freezer, so don’t bother calling.

Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. Comments about this column? jkremer@ liherald.com.

PETER KING
JERRY
KREMER

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Long Island’s water needs to be protected

Long Island water users just won a major legal battle — but we are still far from winning the war for clean water.

A $10.5 billion national settlement with the multinational chemical manufacturer 3M over the widespread contamination of drinking water with PFAS — so-called “forever chemicals” — includes over $250 million for public water providers in Nassau and Suffolk counties. This hard-fought-for financial relief will help cover the staggering cost of removing toxic substances from our drinking water. But it will be payment for damage already done, not a fix for what still threatens our sole-source aquifer every day.

Long Islanders rely entirely on a single underground water source, an aquifer that provides drinking water to more than 2.8 million people. It has been under assault for decades by chemical pollutants that seep through soil, spill into drainage systems and leach from landfills and industrial sites.

Among the most dangerous threats are PFAS compounds, man-made chemicals used in everything from firefighting foam to non-stick cookware that do not break down over time and accumulate in both the environment and our bodies. Exposure to these chemicals has been linked to health problems such as decreased fertility, developmental complications in children and an increased risk of some cancers and immune system issues.

In more than a few of our communities, these pollutants have created brownfields — usually industrial or commercial sites that are abandoned,

LETTERS

Lights of Hope against cancer

To the Editor:

I would like to thank the Herald for its support of the first annual American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network’s Lights of Hope celebration at Glen Cove’s Morgan Memorial Park on July 12. The evening was a celebration of cancer survivors as well as a remembrance of those who have passed. By adding the event to your calendar, and printing a well-thoughtout story, you helped to raise awareness of the event.

I would also like to thank the City of Glen Cove and the wonderful people in the area for their support. And I would like to thank Loggia 1016 of the Sons and Daughters of Italy for their sponsorship. The event would not have been possible without the community support.

I’m happy to report that donations exceeded expectations, and we will definitely be back

vacant or under-used, and where redevelopment or reuse is complicated by the presence or potential presence of at least one, if not more, contaminants.

The settlement is a victory for local water providers, many of whom have led the charge in holding chemical companies accountable. But it also shines a light on an uncomfortable truth: Long Island is already paying dearly for decades of environmental neglect.

Since 2017, more than $1 billion has been spent on installing and maintaining sophisticated water-treatment systems, according to federal estimates. And even with this financial award, residents and ratepayers will continue to bear the burden of ongoing operating costs.

So, while restitution is essential, it is not enough. The fight for clean water cannot begin at the filtration plant. It must begin at the source — with laws, oversight and habits that will keep our groundwater clean in the first place.

To policymakers: This is your moment to act. Strengthen oversight of chemical manufacturing, storage and disposal. Expand groundwater protection zones, especially near vulnerable recharge areas. Invest in forward-thinking, sustainable water infrastructure that protects our aquifer before contaminants reach it. Laws must reflect the seriousness of the threat, the indispensability of the resource and the fact that the water cannot be replaced.

To state and local agencies and appointed officials: It’s time to audit the regulatory framework governing industrial, agricultural and even residential activities that affect water quality. Permitting and enforcement must be rigor-

ous. No project, permit or loophole should be allowed to jeopardize our only supply of drinking water.

Long Island residents and business owners are part of the solution. Everyday actions matter — from how you dispose of household chemicals to the fertilizers and cleaning agents you use. Learn about the long-term impact of routine habits. Information is available from a variety of sources, beginning with local and state health departments. Support local clean-water initiatives. Vote for leaders who prioritize the environment. And above all, treat water conservation not as a suggestion, but as a shared responsibility.

This is not alarmism. It’s realism. The aquifer beneath Long Island cannot be replaced, rerouted or remade. We have no second source to draw from if it becomes too polluted or depleted. Every gallon of water pumped from below is a gallon we must protect with vigilance, policy and foresight.

Yes, the 3M settlement is a victory — but it should also be a warning. We cannot afford to celebrate a payout while the source of our water remains under threat. Financial settlements help heal wounds, but they do not prevent the next injury. That requires a cultural shift — from passive reliance to proactive stewardship.

Clean water is the foundation of our health, our economy and our communities. Long Island must now recommit — urgently, and collectively — to safeguarding the aquifer that sustains us all. Let’s make sure that in the future, headlines about our water celebrate prevention, not just compensation.

OPINIONS

Nassau County has a partisan grant fund blockade

Each of Nassau County’s 19 legislative districts is allocated an equal sum in capital infrastructure funds to be applied toward hyperlocal initiatives through the Community Revitalization Program. This empowers each legislator to meet the needs of his or her school districts and communities by supporting projects for local schools, libraries, parks and first responder agencies.

The process for accessing those funds — which have already been allocated through approval of the capital plan — should be simple.

After a legislator completes an application, CRPs go to the county executive’s office. There it should be reviewed to ensure that it is complete, and that the project is suitable for county funding with a CRP. The completed item should then be sent to the County Legislature, where it should be placed on the calendar and approved. I say “should” because, since the

start of this legislative term, County Executive Bruce Blakeman has been fulfilling requests for the Republican majority, and stonewalling the Democratic minority.

TThe numbers speak for themselves. Since January 2024, Republicans have had 46 of their grant requests approved, while Democrats have seen none of their pending requests approved or considered in regular order. The only grants we received came after we drew a line in the sand with the county executive and forced his hand. This spring, we successfully leveraged our votes for the 2025 capital plan — which requires a 13-vote supermajority to pass — and secured funding for 14 pending CRP grants for first responders, totaling $1.3 million, as part of the 2025 capital plan bond ordinance.

um, in Glen Cove; and $100,000 for a local history center at Port Washington Library.

he county executive is blocking the use of funds OK’d for Democratic districts.

Beyond the individual projects, what does all this mean for you? Simply put, County Executive Blakeman is blocking Democratic legislators from using funding that has already been accounted for and allocated for improving their districts. Not only is this grossly inequitable, but by failing to complete his ministerial role in the CRP process, Blakeman is once again ignoring the job he was elected to do and bringing his exclusionary approach to governing into sharp focus.

The most galling part of all of this is how little sense it makes. Shouldn’t the county executive — who serves all 1.4 million residents of Nassau County, and is elected by the voters in all 19 districts — want to see projects move forward in every district? District 11 has a nearly even split of registered Democrats and Republicans, and this community is well aware of how Blakeman has been the biggest obstacle to progress on initiatives they care deeply about.

Still, more than 30 Democratic CRPs remain caught in the partisan blockade, and in District 11, that includes grants for $350,000 to improve Pascucci Field, in Glen Cove; $275,000 for an allability playground in Port Washington; $110,000 to upgrade Maccarone Stadi-

LETTERS

next year. Proceeds from Lights of Hope go toward cancer prevention, education and advocacy.

PETER O’CONNOR American Cancer Society volunteer

Editors’ note: The American Cancer Society’s 32nd annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Long Island walk will take place on Oct. 19, from 7 to 10:30 a.m., at Jones Beach’s Field 5. For more information, go to MakingStridesWalk.org/ LongIsland.

We’re safeguarding wildlife and waterways

To the Editor:

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s Division of Law Enforcement enforces the 71 chapters of the state’s Environmental Conservation Law, protecting fish and wildlife and preserving environmental quality across New York.

Last year, the Division of Law Enforcement fielded more than 105,700 calls, resulting in Environmental Conservation police officers and investigators across the state responding to more than 30,000 complaints and working on cases that resulted in 15,755 tickets or arrests for violations ranging from deer poaching to solid waste dumping, illegal min-

ing, the illegal pet trade, and excessive emissions.

On July 7, three officers partnered with the Nassau County Police Department and the U.S. Coast Guard for a boat patrol on the Long Island Sound. The officers checked boats and anglers for compliance with state fishing regulations, navigation law and overall boater safety. They inspected a vessel north of Glen Cove, and discovered an expired fire extinguisher, expired flares, and only four personal flotation devices for the five people on board. The officers issued a ticket and warning to the boat captain, terminated the voyage, followed the vessel back to a nearby marina and advised the captain that they could take the boat back out if they brought another PFD on board.

In separate incidents that day across the Sound, officers ticketed anglers for possessing undersized porgy and fluke, including one angler who had more than two dozen undersized porgy, the smallest measuring 8.5 inches. Porgy must be at least 11 inches to be kept when fishing from a vessel.

DEC officers are on patrol to safeguard the state’s air, water, wildlife and public safety. To report an environmental violation or incident, call (844) 332-3267 for 24-hour dispatch, or report nonurgent violations at dec.ny.gov.

Since joining the Legislature in 2012, I have never witnessed this level of blatant partisanship in the handling of the CRP program. These funds belong to county taxpayers, and they cannot be used for any other purpose. With the refusal to process Democratic projects, many worthwhile endeavors are being held up, and the taxpayers in the districts we serve — Democrats, Republicans and independents alike — are the ones who are harmed.

As the leader of the Democratic minority delegation in the Legislature, I, along with my colleagues, will continue to call out this inequitable and, frankly, incompetent approach to governing that Blakeman has employed for the past three and a half years. As we continue fighting for resources that our communities demand and deserve, I encourage you to contact the county executive’s office, at (516) 571-3131, or bab@nassaucountyny.gov, and respectfully implore him to serve every community in the county equitably and fully.

Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, of Glen Cove, represents Nassau County’s 11th Legislative District and is the Legislature’s minority leader.

FRAMEWORK by Tim Baker

In the Marine Nature Study Area — Oceanside
DELIA DeRIGGI-WHITTON

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