Rockville Centre Herald 02-19-2026

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o’Shea, center, a special education

appeared on “the Kelly

on Feb. 1, alongside Kathy Higgins, Ceo of alliance for a Healthier generation, left, to highlight the Walking Classroom model.

By MADISoN GUSlER mgusler@liherald.com

The New York Police Department announced plans to rename its Police Academy for Detective Steven McDonald, a former longtime Rockville Centre resident.

McDonald became known nationwide for his messages of forgiveness and peace after being shot in Central Park on July 10, 1986, which left him a quadriplegic. He died on Jan. 10, 2017, at 59 shortly after suffering a heart attack.

My father’s message was not only forgiveness, but

about love and nonviolence.

By KYlE DENSoN Intern

Tara O’Shea, a special education teacher in the Rockville Centre School District, appeared on “The Kelly Clarkson Show” Feb. 1 to spotlight an innovative teaching approach that gets students out of their seats and learning while on the move.

O’Shea, who teaches at William S. Covert Elementary School, was seen on the nationally syndicated daytime talk show alongside Kathy Higgins, CEO of the Alliance for a Healthier Generation. They both promoted The Walking Classroom model, which combines physical activity with academics through audio-based learning.

The program allows students to listen to

hundreds of preloaded podcast lessons while walking outdoors with classmates and teachers, blending core subjects such as English language arts and social studies with exercise. O’Shea said the goal is to keep students engaged while helping them stay active.

“It really supports every child,” she said. “It also is able to kind of marry, in a very beautiful way, technology and movement.”

O’Shea has worked in special education for seven years and is now in her fourth year at Covert, where The Walking Classroom has become a regular part of instruction for fourth- and fifth-grade students. She also has led professional development sessions to introduce the program to colleagues, who can implement it with individual students or Continued on page 18

McDonald was breathing with the help of a respirator for 30 years after the shooting, while still remaining employed by the NYPD, offering support for wounded officers and appearing from time to time during roll calls.

through those doors will begin their career with a clear understanding of the kind of officer that this department hopes that they will strive to be.”

The NYPD Police Academy, an eight-story, high-tech training space based in College Point, Queens and opened in 2014, will be renamed the Detective Steven D. McDonald Police Academy. The official renaming will take place on July 16, 2026, which is 42 years after McDonald joined the academy and 40 years after he was shot.

CoNoR McDoNAlD NYPD captain

National spotlight shines on special education teacher Academy to be named after McDonald

“Steven McDonald is truly the embodiment of who we want our officers to be,” Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said in her State of the NYPD address on Feb. 10. “Going forward, every officer who walks

Tisch described McDonald as “a life that reshaped how the public understands this work and how this department understands itself.” She also praised “the character he demonstrated in his refusal to be defined by bitterness, and his commitment to dignity and forgiveness.”

Tisch shared the news with McDonald’s widow, Patti Ann, and son, Conor, on Jan. 29, which was Conor’s birthday.

“I’m not one that is usually

Continued on page 24

How Mesidor PLLC is changing the conversation

Helping Long Islanders fight for fair pay.

For many in the workplace, conversations about fair pay still happen in whispers — or not at all. Because of this, unequal pay remains one of the most persistent workplace issues, quietly affecting women and employees of color across industries.

At Mesidor PLLC, attorney Marjorie Mesidor is working to change that. She’s seen how wage discrimination often hides in the shadows — not as blatant unfairness, but as subtle disparities that build over time.

Sometimes it looks like two employees doing the same work, with the same credentials, but only one consistently earning less. Other times it’s the absence of raises, unexplained differences in bonuses, or vague salary structures that mask deeper inequities.

You shouldn’t have to work twice as hard to earn half as much

One of Mesidor’s clients, a woman working in professional sports, learned her male counterparts were paid significantly more despite performing the same job — and doing it better. When she raised the issue, instead of a solution, she was met with retaliation. It’s a story that mirrors countless others.

“Pay discrimination doesn’t always announce itself with a neon sign,” Mesidor says. “It shows up in subtle but deeply damaging ways.”

The hidden red flags of pay inequity

Unequal pay doesn’t just happen in corporate boardrooms — it happens in every industry. Often, the first warning signs can show up as someone being told their salary is based on “prior pay history,” being denied opportunities after asking questions or consistently earning less than coworkers in the same role. According to Mesidor, these

patterns don’t just reflect bad management — they can signal illegal behavior.

Transparency, she adds, is one of the most powerful tools for fairness. When salary information stays secret, inequities thrive. But the more open workplaces are about pay ranges and expectations, the harder it becomes for employers to justify discrimination.

Do you think you’re being unfairly underpaid?

Luckily, New York State law gives employees strong protections. Under both federal and state equal pay laws, it’s illegal to pay men and women differently for substantially equal work or to discriminate based on race, gender, national origin or other protected categories. New York’s laws go even further, prohibiting retaliation against anyone who discusses or discloses wages.

If you suspect you’re being underpaid, the first step is to gather proof — not confrontation. Mesidor advises employees to start by documenting everything related to their role and compensation. Keep a detailed record and any applicable paperwork of your job responsibilities, performance reviews and any verifiable salary information, including job postings or internal pay ranges if you can access them. Even small details, like changes in workload or title without corresponding pay adjustments, can strengthen your understanding of the situation.

Before approaching your employer, it’s crucial to speak with an employment attorney who can help evaluate the facts objectively. An attorney can determine whether the pay gap is legal or discriminatory, guide you on how to raise concerns safely and ensure your rights are protected if retaliation occurs. As Mesidor notes, being informed

and strategic from the start can make all the difference.

When one person speaks up, others benefit

Taking legal action can feel intimidating, but it often leads to far-reaching change. Mesidor has seen organizations overhaul entire pay structures after one employee came forward. Lawsuits, she says, don’t just resolve individual cases — they can force companies to reevaluate how they pay, promote and value their workers.

“On an individual level, it can mean recovering lost wages or getting reinstated,” Mesidor says. “But on a systemic level, it forces organizations to examine and change their practices.”

The emotional impact can be heavy. Many clients come to Mesidor feeling betrayed and discouraged — yet what sustains them is the realization that their

fight goes beyond themselves. “They’re fighting for everyone who deserves to be valued equally,” she explains.

At Mesidor PLLC, that fight starts with conversation. The firm offers consultations to help employees understand their rights, whether or not they ultimately pursue a claim. Sometimes, that clarity alone is empowering; other times, it’s the beginning of real accountability.

“You shouldn’t have to work twice as hard to earn half as much,” Mesidor says — a phrase that has become a guiding principle in her work. “No amount of overwork will fix systemic inequities. Only transparency, accountability and legal enforcement will.”

Equal pay isn’t a privilege — it’s your right. For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit https://MesidorLaw.com.

Gala honors dedication to Catholic education

The St. Agnes Cathedral School held its annual dinnerdance gala on at The Lannin in Eisenhower Park, honoring members of the school community for their commitment to Catholic education while raising funds for the school’s operating budget.

The Jan. 31 evening included honoree and committee photos, a cocktail reception and dinner, followed by opening remarks from Rich Coppola and a prayer and remarks by Bishop John Barres.

Awards presentations recognized Dominick and Kerry Davi with the St. Thomas Aquinas Award for ongoing

support of Catholic education, Kim Johnson Shaughnessy with the St. Catherine of Siena Award for commitment to Catholic education, and Sandra Collins with the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Award for dedicated service.

Closing remarks were delivered by Father Michael Duffy.

The annual gala celebrates families and individuals whose continued involvement strengthens the school community and helps sustain its academic and faith-based mission.

On Kindness

Crime watCh

Criminal misChief

On Feb. 11, a Maine Avenue resident reported that someone damaged the driver’s door lock on his vehicle while it was parked in Field #20 overnight.

harassment

On Feb. 13, a Rockville Centre code enforcement officer reported he was spit on by a female subject while they were in Dunkin’ Donuts on Merrick Road.

leaving the sCene

On Feb. 11, the foreman of a National Grid work crew reported that a vehicle drove through their construction site on Lincoln Avenue, striking a piece of digging equipment, before driving off.

On Feb. 14, a Valley Stream resident reported she was involved in an accident on Sunrise Highway, and the other vehicle fled the scene.

arrests

On Feb. 9, Carlos Zelaya, 53, of Elmont, was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated after he was observed traveling east in the westbound lanes of Sunrise Highway.

On Feb. 11, Lisa Bruce, 37, of Rockville Centre, was arrested and charged with assault following an investigation at her residence.

On Feb. 15, Khalik Davis, 29, of Ozone Park, was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated after an investigation at the scene of an auto accident on Peninsula Boulevard.

On Feb. 15, Christopher Lo, 30, of Rockville Centre, was arrested and charged with assault and criminal mischief after an investigation at his residence.

People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.

fire watCh

The Rockville Centre Fire Department is always looking for help in serving our community. If you live here or in any one of the adjacent communities and are interested in joining or just

February 8 – February 15

General Alarms – 24

Still Alarms – 4 Rescue – 2

Aided Cases (Ambulance) – 42

Mutual Aid Fire – 5

Mutual Aid Rescue – 0

Mutual Aid Ambulance – 0

■ WEB SITE: www.liherald.com/rockvillecentre

■ E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: rvceditor@liherald.com

have questions, please visit any firehouse on Sunday mornings and speak with one of the officers or call (516) 6789320. For emergencies dial 911 or (516) 766-0400.

Year To Date

General Alarms – 88

Still Alarms – 41 Rescue – 33

Aided Cases (Ambulance) – 303

Mutual Aid Fire – 20

Mutual Aid Rescue – 0

Mutual Aid Ambulance – 1 Total – 488

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Fundraiser supports family of fallen cop

By CHRIS COLUCCI ccolucci@liherald.com

More than 260 pizza parlors and restaurants across the Island will share a slice of Long Island Pizza Strong — a locally based fundraiser, which has gathered more than $380,000 for various causes since 2023.

This year, the event happening on Feb. 25 will direct proceeds to the family of Nassau County police officer Patricia Espinosa, a member of the Fifth Precinct and a nine-year veteran of the force, who was killed by an alleged drunk driver on Jan. 31.

Ifeel in moments of despair like this, people just step up to the plate and do the right thing.

SaLvatORe BUgLIOne

Nick’s owner

Long Island Pizza Strong coordinates with participating restaurants to collect $5 for every pizza pie sold during the one-day event. Residents can take part in the fundraiser as easily as ordering a pizza.

Four Rockville Centre pizzerias are participating: Camila’s on Front St., Nick’s, 3 Brothers Pizza and Mother Kelly’s.

“My son’s a city cop, that’s number one, and I like supporting the local stuff,” said Glenn Gobetz, owner of Mother Kelly’s. “I’m just happy to do it.”

Gobetz added that seeing restaurants unite for the cause matters beyond business.

“I think it’s great for the community; I think it’s great for that family. I mean, that’s a tragic thing, and that’s the least we could do to try to help.”

Nick’s owner Salvatore Buglione said he and his partner, Bartolomeo Agozzino, also quickly committed to participate.

“I’m just a big advocate of helping out in situations where people are in need, and we participated two years ago with it as well too,” Buglione said.

Buglione added that the scale of participation reflects the spirit of the region.

“It’s amazing,” he said. “This is what I feel America is about. I feel in

moments of despair like this, people just step up to the plate and do the right thing.”

The charity was founded in 2022 when Alyssa Guidice, Anthony Laurino and Jim Serpico pooled their collective backgrounds in fundraising, pizza making and restaurant ownership and found a way to give back to local communities. The organization connected eateries for support after three separate tragic incidents in recent years, with many establishments repeating the chance to cook for a good cause.

“We’ve done these fundraisers before,” said Anthony Alesia, co-owner of Sorrento’s of Long Beach. “I’m retired NYPD, myself. We’re just trying to give back.”

With previous iterations, Long Island Pizza Strong raised more than $180,000 in April 2024 for the family of fallen NYPD officer Jonathan Diller and first responder support groups, as well as raising over $100,000 after the Farmingdale High School marching band bus crash of 2023 and a similar amount in 2024 following the West Babylon car crash which killed two teens.

“We take part every time they do this event,” said Mike Quinn, one of the

owners of Borrelli’s Taproom. Emphasizing this year’s benefit for Officer Espinosa’s family, Quinn continued, “This one hits close to home because Mr. Borrelli’s son-in-law is a Nassau County cop. We’d participate anyway, but this definitely hits closer to home.”

Noting their hiatus from tragedybased activities in 2025, Guidice said the pause reflects the group’s desire to be thoughtful abouts its mission.

“To me, that’s a good thing,” the cofounder explained. “Things happen and we get requests, literally, every single day to do something. We don’t want to tire out the idea. We try to do it for the right causes and for the right reasons.”

At press time, Brixx and Barley, Francesco’s Pizzeria, and Sorrento’s of Long Beach are other confirmed locations. Restaurants — with full pizza pies on the menu — have until Feb. 22 to sign up to be a part of Long Island Pizza Strong.

The memory of Nassau County Police Officer Patricia Espinosa, a nine-year veteran of the Fifth Precinct, is being honored through this year’s Long Island Pizza Strong fundraiser.

South Side (14-0) secures conference title

By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

Shutting down one of Nassau County’s most prolific scorers for the second time in as many meetings propelled South Side to the Nassau Conference AA-3 girls’ basketball title Feb. 11.

The Cyclones held visiting Manhasset’s Danielle Perfetto to a pair of field goals and one free throw for 5 points in a 49-41 victory that sealed their second conference championship in four seasons. Junior Katelyn Mullen paced the offense with 18 points, including clutch back-to-back traditional threepoint plays in the third quarter when the hosts erased a three-point deficit to lead by eight entering the fourth.

“We were so focused in practice this week and in warmups,” Mullen said. “We’ve always talked about adding to the banner on the wall. It’s such a good feeling.”

Senior point guard Ellie Lennon was in command of the offense and chipped in 6 points and 6 assists. Junior Sophia Corvetti had 9 points

and 8 rebounds, and senior Maddie Woo had some key late buckets as part of an 8-point effort.

“It’s not easy to beat a team like Manhasset twice,” South Side head coach Dan Ferrick said. “I’m very happy for our girls. Winning the conference is a great accomplishment.

“Both times we played them were similar games,” he added. “Close throughout and we came up big in the second half. We didn’t have a great shooting night, but our defense more than made up for it. We threw a few different things at them and everything seemed to work.”

Junior Reese Long was instrumental on the defensive end and contained Perfetto for a second time in a month. Perfetto, who had 8 points in South Side’s 48-45 win Jan. 14 on Long’s buzzer-beating 3-pointer, entered the rematch averaging 19.4 ppg to rank fourth in the county. She had two points in the first quarter and three in the fourth. Brigid Loughlin, who didn’t score in the first meeting, led Manhasset with 14 before fouling out late.

“Perfetto is a terrific player and Reese did a fantastic defensive job,” Ferrick said. “We also held their second-leading scorer [Jream McLeod] to six points.”

A frantic opening quarter saw South Side (14-0 in AA-3, 15-5 overall) score the first seven points of the night but eventually fall behind 13-9. Lennon’s 3-pointer late in the second gave the Cyclones a 22-18 halftime lead.

Manhasset responded to open the second half, getting a pair of baskets from Mariah Rosado, one from McLeod and a trey from Loughlin to take a 27-24 lead.

“We just talked about keeping the defense up and the offense would follow,” said Mullen, who scored eight straight points to give South Side the lead for good at 32-27. Woo (6) and Long combined for 10 of its last 15 points.

“We worked really hard for this and I think we have what it takes to go all the way,” Mullen said.

The Cyclones will be the No. 2 or 3 seed in the Class AA playoffs and host a quarterfinal Feb. 25.

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What’s underground comes back around

Undoing the damage: the challenges of managing Long Island’s largest chemical spill

By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN & JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO of the Herald Community Newspapers

Second installment in a series about water.

It’s impossible to discuss Long Island’s groundwater without addressing Northrop Grumman.

The Long Island aeronautics industry was a key asset to the United States armed forces in the last century, testing and manufacturing nearly 30,000 airplanes for the U.S. Navy starting in the 1930s, and later producing the lunar module for Apollo 11’s landing on the moon. For over 50 years, the Northrop Grumman Bethpage Facility and Naval Weapons Industrial Reserve Plant Site was at the center of American defense and innovation — and one of the largest chemical contamination sites in New York.

According to the state Department of Environmental Conservation, the degreasing agent trichloroethene leaked from NWIRP’s plumbing and dumping sites into the Magothy Aquifer — which provides water to much of Nassau County — creating the Navy Grumman groundwater plume.

tions or captured in granulated carbon, preventing any future leaks.

The DEC’s 2019 Record of Decision was the first formal plan for cleaning up the site. Before then, there were around 10 extraction wells in the affected area. Since the ROD, the number of wells has risen to 26, supported by five watertreatment plants. The aggressive plan to stop the plume’s southward migration was motivated by the DEC’s zero-tolerance attitude toward chemical contamination, Pelton said.

“Groundwater exists in these voids between grains of sand and soils in what we call pore spaces,” Granzen explained. “Water moves in between those pore spaces. When the contaminants get mixed with the groundwater, that causes movement.”

RISING TIDES

“The water districts should not have to address this,” Pelton said. “That’s the primary driver here: removing the TCE from the aquifer system so that we’ve got a better drinking water source.”

The plume is a twomile-by-four-mile body of TCE with the potential to leach into Long Island’s South Shore waters and the Great South Bay, according to Jason Pelton, director of Remedial Bureau D in the DEC’s Division of Environmental Remediation.

“As plumes go, it’s probably the largest in New York state,” Pelton said. “It may be one of the largest in the country.”

Bethpage’s tarnished legacy

Shortly after the plume was identified in 1983, the DEC formed a partnership with both the responsible parties, the Navy and Northrop Grumman, to begin restoration efforts. The two groups operate extraction wells, large structures that siphon water out of the aquifer, filter out TCE, and send the water back underground by way of recharge basins.

“I’ve been very impressed with the Navy and Northrop Grumman’s ability to locate these wells precisely where they need to be, and to see the contaminant numbers that are coming out in these locations,” Kristin Granzen, DEC project manager for the U.S. Navy Bethpage site, said.

The joint cleanup effort processes about 10 million gallons of contaminated water per day, according to DEC documents provided to the Herald. The agency estimates that about 80 percent of the contamination — 276,000 pounds — has been removed from the Magothy Aquifer and destroyed in chemical reac-

The DEC’s goal is to reduce the aquifer’s TCE levels to 5 parts per billion, the groundwater safety standard, though much of the plume’s area is still over 50 ppb, according to DEC map data from May 2025.

“The fact that it’s predominantly TCE makes it a little bit easier,” Pelton added. “The challenge is the magnitude of the contamination … I would say maybe we’re pumping in the interior of the plume for 30 or 40 more years.”

Chemicals linger, at what cost?

While the cleanup continues, the plume’s public health effects have been a topic of endless discussion. Its cleanup is made possible by collaboration with local municipalities, home to the county’s hundreds of monitoring wells collecting data on groundwater. They are a strict quality-control measure assessing whether the water is safe to consume or to use in irrigation.

Kevin Reilly, who oversees the monitoring of the Massapequa Water District as its superintendent, told the Herald that if the chemicals posed no real health risks to the community, there would be no need for the decades-long cleanup effort. The district serves parts of Massapequa, Massapequa Park and North Massapaqua, all areas just south of Bethpage, where the plume originated.

After filtration, there are no risks to residents’ health, the DEC maintains. “I would say the overall health of the aquifer is healthy,” Pelton said. “It’s important that people know that their drinking water is really high quality, and it’s absolutely safe to drink that water.”

According to a chemical profile from the Agency for Toxic Substances and

Courtesy Department of Environmental Conservation this map shows the estimated extent of the navy grumman groundwater plume, which was first identifed in 1983, based on the most recent data from 2025.

Disease Registry, a division of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, TCE can be a carcinogen with high exposure, and the state Department of Health conducted an environmental health investigation in Bethpage, finalized in 2013, on whether long-term exposure to contamination from the sites had affected local cancer rates.

According to the department’s report, there was no correlation between the presence of TCE in the aquifer with cancer rates on Long Island. The most commonly diagnosed cancers in the areas affected by the plume were those typically seen most often in adults, and no single rare cancer type appeared more than once. Most diagnoses occurred at ages when cancer is generally most common. There was no indication that the cancers were linked to environmental findings.

The health department continues routine monitoring of drinking water and remediation efforts to protect public health as the cleanup progresses.

At the request of the Bethpage community, the department is revisiting the

2013 study, and its work is expected to be completed by the end of this year. In a written statement, the department told the Herald that the update cannot provide a direct link between cancer cases and environmental exposure, including the plume. Evaluations of environmental exposure can draw some health associations, but they cannot determine causality.

“There is no new threat to public health, and prior exposures have been addressed for more than a decade due to the efforts of New York State,” the statement read. “The Department is currently working on the study and upon completion of the report will announce findings and host a public meeting.”

The race against the spread

The state continues its effort to clean up the plume while keeping the affected communities informed. The DEC facilitates regular community meetings through its Community Participation Working Group, comprising elected officials, agencies, businesses and experts

Saga of Navy-Grumman plume continues

Continued from PreViouS PAGe

that meet on a quarterly basis. The group was established to foster dialogue, improve public understanding, and encourage discussion of the cleanup.

The DEC staff also provides regular project updates at Bethpage Community Council meetings, which are held at the Bethpage Public Library and open to the public.

According to the DEC’s January Groundwater Plume Cleanup Update, public water suppliers treat groundwater using established methods to contain regulated contaminants before they reach homes and businesses. Water is drawn from designated sources, treated to meet all federal and state drinking water standards, and distributed through a network of mains and storage tanks. Throughout the process, water quality is continuously monitored to ensure that it remains safe to drink.

The challenge is the magnitude of the contamination.

Jason PelTon Remedial bureau director, Department of Environmental Conservation

“We work really closely with the water districts in Nassau County,” Pelton said. “Every single day they provide high-quality drinking water that meets all of the New York State Department of Health drinking water requirements.”

The system relies on multiple safeguards to maintain high water quality and protect public health. This approach ensures that if standards are not met, suppliers notify customers and take corrective action, which can include temporarily taking wells out of service.

Negotiations among public water suppliers, the DEC, Northrop Grumman and the Navy have focused on funding the treatment systems used to maintain safe drinking water. The Bethpage Water District, for example, operates treatment systems that are considered among the most advanced in the nation, according to the DEC.

Though it is currently not affected, the Massapequa Water District is just outside the current spread of the plume. “We are not an active part of the cleanup yet,” Reilly said. “We monitor — there’s monitoring wells that we get the data from the Navy and their consultants and the DEC. But we don’t have any contamination in our wells from the Grumman Navy plume at this time.”

Common misconception has led many Long Island residents to believe the entirety of the South Shore has been impacted, which is not the case. Nonetheless, Reilly said, “The plume is migrating and flowing towards our district.”

He explained that while large-scale, permanent systems for treating the underground water are currently under construction, temporary systems have been installed along the leading edge of the plume. They operate on a smaller scale, but they are designed to be mobile, and can be relocated as needed to respond to changing conditions while the permanent treatment infrastructure is being completed.

“The water districts to the north of us are already treating their wells for the contaminants, and they’ve spent millions upon millions of dollars to get these treatment systems in place,” Reilly said. “We haven’t had to do that yet — we’re watching. We don’t want to have to do that, and we’re constantly involved in pushing to get these Navy treatment systems up and running, to treat the groundwater.”

Northrop Grumman did not respond to requests for comment.

the northrop Grumman rW-21 Area Groundwater extraction and treatment system processes water when

pumped out of the aquifer, before sending it back underground.

Courtesy Northrop Grumman northrop Grumman was a major manufacturer in the aeronautics industry for the u.S. armed forces. Above, airplane parts in of one its factories.

study that shows local governments and corporations working together to protect communities. The plume’s development and spread also show that the consequences of a mistake can be challenging to deal with, and that decades of damage require as much or more time to repair. The DEC’s expertise, Northrop Grumman and the Navy’s willingness to take responsibility, and the help of local water districts, were essential in making the restoration effort possible.

The public can receive updates about the plume cleanup effort at the DEC’s Bethpage Community Council meetings at the Bethpage Public Library, the Navy’s semi-annual Resident Advisory Board meetings online at NAVFAC.Navy.Mil/Divisions/Environmental, and Northrop Grumman’s website, NorthropGrumman.com/Sustainability.

deCeX6 is an early exploration well designed to support the cleanup of the plume. the well, installed in the town of oyster Bay by the State department of environmental Conservation, awaits potential future use if needed.

Riverside second graders rock the ‘Barnyard’

Riverside Elementary School’s “barn” came to life as 15 second-graders delighted families and friends with their lively performance of “Barnyard Moosical.”

The show was the culmination of the children’s theater workshop, guided by South Side High School theater teacher Russell Dembin, who helped students develop stage presence and voice projection, along with Riverside music educator Kirsten Ruvolo.

Set on a bustling farm preparing for a special celebration, the heartwarming production on Feb. 3 featured cows, chickens, pigs, and sheep learning that everyone has a special role to play. Guided by a friendly Farmer narrator, the young performers brought humor, music, and plenty of barnyard charm to the stage.

The story centered on a group of animals who doubted whether they had unique talents to contribute to the farm’s big event. Through cheerful musical numbers — complete with enthusiastic “moos,” “clucks,” and “oinks” — the animals discovered that each of them plays an important part in keeping the farm running smoothly.

Audience members clapped along as “funky” chickens strutted across the stage and sheep square-danced in a crowd-favorite scene. The show concluded with a high-energy finale celebrating teamwork, friendship, and the idea that the barnyard is one big family.

The performance was met with cheers and proud smiles from parents, marking a memorable evening for the Riverside second-graders’ first stage production.

–Brian Kacharaba

Residents sound alarm on budget deficit

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

Residents filled the South Side High School Commons Room to voice concerns over how the Rockville Centre Public School District plans to close a projected $3.78 million budget deficit for 2026-27.

The shortfall, first revealed at the Board of Education’s Jan. 29 work session, has sparked debate over rising costs, declining enrollment, and whether district leaders failed to plan for mounting financial pressures.

Roxanne Rizzi urged the board to make the same “difficult decisions” families face at home. She questioned the cost of smaller buildings, particularly Riverside Elementary School, which she said costs roughly $15,000 more per student due to low enrollment.

Rizzi proposed reorganizing schools — including moving administrative offices and creating a centralized UPK and kindergarten center — rather than closing buildings or cutting programs.

“It’s not okay not to have the difficult conversations,” she said during the Feb. 12 meeting. “We’re parents, we’re taxpayers, and you need to be better stewards of our money.”

Special education funding quickly became a flashpoint.

Elizabeth Carnaval pushed back on rhetoric she said unfairly frames special

Michael Rechter/Herald

Rockville Centre Superintendent Matthew Gaven, center, announced a projected $3.78 million budget deficit for 2026-27 during the Jan. 29 Board of Education work session, a revelation that alarmed some village residents.

education students as a financial burden. Citing district budget data from 2019 to 2025, she said special education spending has declined as a share of the overall budget, from roughly 15 percent to about 13.5 percent.

She pointed to a projected $6.38 million in out-of-district placement costs next year — a 71 percent increase over 2024-25 actual spending — and called for greater transparency.

“Special education is not optional,” Carnaval said. “These students are not

budget lines to be trimmed. They are children entitled to services.”

Superintendent Matthew Gaven emphasized mandated services will not be reduced.

“I want everyone to understand that clearly, because I’ve said it not only to the teachers, I’ve said it here two weeks ago, and I’ll say it here again,” he said. “No one is advocating to change or not meet mandates in terms of special education students.”

Others focused on staffing and long-

term planning.

Michael Schwartz, a South Side High School alumnus, questioned whether the current structure — including four assistant principals at the high school — is sustainable amid enrollment declines.

Carolyn Schwartz cited a 2021 state comptroller audit that found the district lacked a multi-year financial plan. With enrollment down 288 students over the past decade, she questioned whether administrative growth and contractual obligations had outpaced revenue.

“We have lost 288 children,” she said. “Teachers’ positions have been lost due to attrition and the teachers are the only ones on the chopping block.”

Gaven disputed claims of administrative expansion, noting the district has 23 administrators — the same as when he started — and that staff reductions have occurred through attrition, including eight teaching positions districtwide. He said contractual raises are built into collective bargaining agreements and that the state tax cap limits revenue growth to the lesser of 2 percent or inflation.

Some residents defended the board. Barry Hochhauser said the district remains a cornerstone of property values and pledged support for the eventual budget.

“You have my full support and I will be voting yes on whatever budget comes down,” he declared.

State Republicans rally around Blakeman

County executive, now the GOP nominee for governor, has plenty to say about Hochul at convention

By Chris ColuCCi, ABig Ail grieCo & AngelinA Zing Ariello of the Herald

After three days of official business, rallying the party faithful and nominating the state Republican slate, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman was front and center at the party’s convention in Garden City last week, and accepted the GOP’s nomination to be its gubernatorial candidate.

If elected, Blakeman would be only the second Long Islander to become governor, 127 years after Teddy Roosevelt did so, and the first Nassau County executive to hold the state’s top office.

Blakeman criticized Gov. Kathy Hochul and pledged to cut income taxes for middle-class families, reduce electricity bills by rolling back stateimposed fees and mandates, and redirect spending he said is being wasted to instead fund schools, infrastructure, hospitals and services for veterans.

“Taxes are soaring, electric bills and insurance premiums keep climbing out of control,” Blakeman said on Feb. 11, the third and final day of the convention. “Crime is rising. Businesses are leaving the state in record numbers. Families and seniors are being priced out of their homes. New York ranks dead last for economic development, and number 45 out of 50 states in the nation for affordability, and it’s all a direct result of Kathy Hochul’s failed policies.” He vowed to oppose congestion pricing, protect Second Amendment rights and support law enforcement, including keeping violent offenders in prison and revisiting criminal justice policies such as cashless bail and parole standards.

“I will bring the experience, leadership and focus on public safety,” Blakeman said. “We will make you safer in your homes and your communities, and we will continue to fight for your families. I will be governor for all the people, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, abilities and lifestyles.”

Upstate Madison County Sheriff Todd Hood was introduced as Blakeman’s running mate, the candidate for lieutenant governor. Hood pledged to support Blakeman and help lead what he described as an effort to fix the state’s pressing problems. A third-term elected sheriff with more than 30 years of law enforcement service, Hood framed his candidacy around public safety and government accountability. He argued that the state has become less safe and more expensive under oneparty rule, criticizing bail laws, antipolice rhetoric and high taxes that he said have hurt communities and driven families and small businesses out of the state. Hood said that he and Blakeman would stand with law enforcement and crime victims, cut taxes, rein in state spending and work to make New York more affordable.

“That’s the kind of leadership that I’ll bring to the lieutenant governor’s office,” Hood said. “Bruce Blakeman and

the party’s nominee for governor, noted Gov. Kathy Hochul’s “failed policies” on Feb. 11.

I are running to restore common sense.”

Former Gov. George Pataki, New York’s last Republican governor, who served three terms, from 1995 to 2006, offered his support as well, making clear the party’s push to win back the governor’s office.

“I’ve known Bruce for decades,” Pataki said of Blakeman. “He is someone who loves this country and loves this state. He is someone who has dedicated his life to public service to make the lives of others better. And he hasn’t just tried. He has succeeded.”

Delegates also nominated Saritha Komatireddy, a former federal prosecutor, for attorney general, with 86.3 percent of the vote. She defeated Brooklyn attorney Khurram Dara. Komatireddy emphasized her experience prosecuting terrorism and public corruption, and pledged to focus on public safety.

“I’ve spent my life in public service and public safety,” she said. “New Yorkers are tired of seeing criminals released over and over again while families feel

the office.

unsafe in their own communities.”

The party’s nominee for comptroller, Joseph Hernandez, shared his family’s story of emigrating from Cuba after his father was a political prisoner. He criticized current Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli and outlined plans to invest $1 billion in Israeli bonds and launch a proposed $10 billion “Empire Opportunity Fund.”

“I know a communist when I see a communist,” Hernandez said of DiNapoli. “My friends, he is a communist.”

Long Beach Republican Chairman Jim Moriarty pointed to Nassau County as a microcosm of the state.

“In Nassau County, the demographics and all other statistics mirrors the state of New York,” Moriarty said on the second day of the convention. “He’s got tremendous executive experience,” he added of Blakeman. “He’s shown he can win and attract bipartisan support. He’s going to be a tremendous candidate and a great governor.”

Along with Hochul, the Democratic

slate includes incumbents Attorney General Letitia James and DiNapoli, a native Long Islander. The lieutenant governor candidate is Adrienne Adams, the former speaker of the New York City Council.

Hochul received a boost in her campaign when current Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado suspended his campaign for governor, deciding not to challenge her in the Democratic primary.

Blakeman is expected to face a challenge in the Republican primary from Libertarian candidate Larry Sharpe. That election is June 23. The general election is on Nov. 3.

Despite Republican support inside the building, Democrats outside made their presence known on Feb. 11.

“We’re here to send a message to our Republicans over in the hotel across the street that we’re not going to stand for electing a man as governor of this state who’s going to kowtow to Donald Trump,” state Democratic Party Chairman Jay Jacobs said.

Lentini named higher education trailblazer

Molloy University President James P. Lentini was named the recipient of Insight Into Academia magazine’s 2026 Trailblazer in Higher Education Award, a national honor recognizing senior leaders whose strategic innovation has strengthened institutions and expanded opportunities for students and communities.

The award highlights leaders who have demonstrated measurable impact across the higher education landscape through bold initiatives, institutional growth, and community engagement. Lentini was selected for his role in transforming Molloy University through record enrollment growth, expanded academic offerings, and significant financial and reputational gains.

“President James Lentini’s recognition by Insight Into Academia as a trailblazer in higher education is a welldeserved testament to his exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to student success,” said John J. Bishar, Jr., chairperson of Molloy’s Board of Trustees. “Under his guidance, Molloy University has strengthened its academic excellence, expanded its reach, and embraced innovative pathways that reflect the evolving needs of our students and our community.”

Since assuming the presidency in 2020, Lentini has overseen Molloy’s transition from college to university status and guided the institution through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic while reinforcing its financial stability. During his tenure, Molloy achieved designation as a Carnegie-classified institution for community engagement and earned recognition as a Hispanicserving institution. The university also nearly doubled its endowment.

Lentini’s leadership has emphasized innovation and workforce relevance.

Initiatives launched under his administration include the Talent Solutions program, which provides workforce development education tailored to the needs of regional employers, the creation of a physician assistant degree program, and the expansion of online certificates and degree offerings. Molloy has also incorporated artificial intelligence tools to enhance student recruitment and support services.

These efforts have contributed to growing national recognition. The Wall Street Journal recently ranked Molloy University 75th nationally and sixth in New York State in its 2026 Best College Rankings, citing strong outcomes for students after graduation.

Before joining Molloy, Lentini served

as provost at Oakland University, where he led the formation and initial accreditation of the William Beaumont School of Medicine. His prior roles include dean of the College of Creative Arts at Miami University, founding dean of the School of Arts and Communication at The College of New Jersey, and professor at Wayne State University, where he developed an innovative music technology degree program.

Lentini is also active in national and regional leadership organizations, serving on boards and councils including the Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities, the Long Island Association, the East Coast Conference President’s Council, and the Long Island Arts Alliance.

In addition to his administrative career, Lentini is an award-winning composer and professor of music and is a voting member of the Recording Academy for the Grammy Awards.

“We believe the future of higher education depends on leaders who are willing to challenge convention and embrace bold, impactful innovation,” said Lenore Pearlstein, owner and publisher of Insight Into Academia magazine. “The 2026 Trailblazer honorees represent the highest levels of strategic leadership in the field.”

will be featured alongside 17 other honorees in the March 2026 issue of the magazine.

–Brian Kacharaba

Nominate a student under 18 for the Sustainability Champion Award to recognize their efforts in driving sustainable change.

Submit a nomination of approximately 100 words or less describing the student’s leadership in promoting sustainability: What motivates them? What impact have they had?

Be sure to include a photo or an example of their work—whether it’s a community garden, an environmental campaign, or a creative solution to a sustainability challenge.

Compiled by Herald Staff

Ariel Borkowsky

Farmingdale

Someone paid for my coffee in front of me, and I paid for the person in back of me

Christie Leigh Babirad/Herald

Joe Mascaro Merrick

I shoveled my elderly neighbor’s driveway after the snowstorm.

Abbey Salvemini/Herald

Jarrod Murphy

Rockville Centre, age 10

When somebody was being mean to me at recess, my friends invited me to play football with them. Then, when they were feeing sad, I helped them back and let them play with my friends.

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Maria DeLuca

Glen Cove

Somebody on the Glen Cove neighbors Facebook created a group for people to come together and ideate on ways they can help homeless people in the area.

Roksana Amid/Herald

Carson Giacopelli

Lynbrook, age 18

A neighbor with dementia didn’t have anybody to help her shovel. So, my family and I showed up to shovel her property for her. No money, it is all part of Lynbrook Cares.

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Deliah Roberts/Herald

Rockville Centre Homemakers president Maryann Grandazza welcomed Frank Colon Jr., past post commander of American Legion Post 303, to the Rockville Centre Parks and Recreation Center on Feb. 3 to collect the donations.

Homemakers launch first food drive for veterans

By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

The Rockville Centre Homemakers are expanding their support for local veterans — this time through a food drive that brought in dozens of donations from members during the group’s February meeting.

Held at the Rockville Centre Parks and Recreation Center on Feb. 3, the drive marked the first time the Homemakers collected food specifically for

veterans. The effort was inspired by the work of American Legion Post 303 in Rockville Centre, which supports the Nassau County Veterans Service Agency.

“We donated the food to the Nassau County Veterans Service Agency,” said Homemakers President Maryann Grandazza. “All the members of the Rockville Centre Homemakers brought in different types of food, basically food that can be prepped in a microwave, since not everyone has an oven. Over the years, we’ve collected food for different food pantries and different organizations.”

More than 40 members contributed, with many shopping in bulk at stores such as BJ’s to donate items including canned tuna and chicken noodle soup. Local veterans attended the group’s monthly meeting to collect the donations.

Frank Colón Jr., past post commander of American Legion Post 303, said the partnership with the Homemakers builds on years of shared service.

“When I meet with the Homemakers, I tell them about what’s going on with veterans, what we’re doing and the different programs,” Colón said. “So the ladies collected food.”

The Homemakers have supported veterans in a variety of ways since 2013. One of their long-standing traditions includes donating socks each year.

“We have been donating to the veterans since 2013 with socks, and that will be a tradition that we continue every year,” Grandazza said. “This year, we decided on the veterans because we had donated more than 300 pairs of socks to them back in November, and they told us they were short on food.”

Many donations from the group are handmade by members. The Homemakers, which began more than a century ago, were originally founded for women to teach each other skills while men served in war. Today, they describe themselves as a group of women with expertise in crafts, healthy cooking, sewing, knitting, crocheting, card games and more.

“We’re a big organization that donates to the community,” she said. “We also make shawls for Mercy Hospital for cancer patients, surgery dolls that go to different hospitals to help children understand what types of surgery they’re having, and breast pillows for Bethany House to help cancer patients. So, if anybody is looking to do community service, it’s a great place to be.”

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Covert teacher’s success gains national recognition

small groups.

During a session, students head outside and put on headphones connected to podcast devices. Once instructed, they enter the lesson number assigned for the day so everyone can listen simultaneously as they walk.

“It feels like you’re giving kids a break — and it is a walk, which feels like a break — but you’re not sacrificing instructional time because it complements and supports the curriculum,”

O’Shea said.

Although the program was originally introduced to assist neurodivergent learners, it has proven effective for many students, she said.

“The kids are able to digest and retain a lot of the information that they get while on that walk better,” O’Shea said. “They’re more awake, they’re more alert, and they’re more eager to learn.”

The format has also been used to support the district’s “passion projects,” in which students select topics that interest them, conduct research and present their findings. Some students have even created podcasts of their own to showcase their work.

I was obviously a little bit nervous ... to share what an amazing program it is on such a large scale.

Tara O’Shea Teacher, Covert Elementary School

“It kind of wipes away that perception of, ‘Oh, I’m just a kid. I can’t do that,’” she said. “’Like, you can do that.’”

After building an ongoing relationship with the leadership team at Alliance for a Healthier Generation and participating in the national nonprofit’s webinars, O’Shea was invited to join Higgins on the Feb. 1 broadcast.

“I was obviously a little bit nervous, but more so, just excited to be able to share what an amazing program it is on such a large scale,” she said.

School administrators said O’Shea’s work reflects the type of innovation happening across the district. Michelle DeMartino, Covert’s principal, said O’Shea located and applied for the original grant that helped launch the program at the school.

“I’m extremely proud of her,” DeMartino said. “It’s a great way to showcase the great things we are doing in Rockville Centre and specifically at Covert school.”

District leaders echoed that praise, saying the program aligns with efforts to support both students’ academic and physical needs.

“She’s an amazing teacher — we’re so lucky to have her,” Marie Dalton, assistant superintendent for special education and pupil services, said of O’Shea.

Dalton said the district is encouraged by the positive response from students and staff and hopes to expand the program in the future.

While O’Shea welcomed the chance to share her experience on national television, she said what happens day-to-day in the classroom matters most.

“When you see them come and say, ‘I want to take it so bad’ and ‘I’m so excited,’ that’s one of the best feelings,” she said. “They’re eager to learn.”

LIMITEDTIMEACTNOW!

STEPPING OUT

Hoops, hijinks and history

By Andrew Coen

Acentury after the team’s founding, Harlem Globetrotters storied history comes alive when the latest iteration of the quickfingered hoops stars return here.

The Globetrotters bring their 100 Year Tour to Nassau Coliseum, on Feb. 21, giving fans a chance to see the team’s well-known acrobatic dunks, trick shots and long-range shots up close. This special appearance marks the first time the iconic team — debuting their new 100 Year jerseys — has performed in the arena against longtime rivals, the Washington Generals, since 2017. From gravity-defying dunks to game-changing tricks, everyone will certainly feel the history, the joy, and those “wow” moments in true Globetrotters style.

What started with Curly, Meadowlark, Wilt, and Geese continues on today with Hammer, Torch, Bulldog, Cheese, Jet, Wham, Thunder, TNT — and so many more. Taking inspiration from the fun-loving and awe-inspiring players of the past, today’s Globetrotters stars are ready to wow you on the court and in the crowd

The team is full of a number of talented men and women basketball players who were for various

Harlem Globetrotters at 100

courtesy Harlem Globetrotters Andrew “Big Dog” Whitsett, right, a 7’1” forward/finisher, commands attention with his size and presence on the court.

Wild days in the Bronx

reasons counted out throughout their lives, according to Lucius “Too Tall” Winston, who has spent the last nine years with the Globetrotters. Winston, despite his nickname, only measures 5’11’’ and was told by a former coach at age 15 he was too short to play college or professional basketball.

“You have a ton of guys through our team that had to face adversity and that builds character,” he says. “I got a chance to see that coach a couple years ago after he saw me play and he said he wanted to apologize for what he said to me and I told him if he didn’t tell me those words at that age I probably wouldn’t be where I am today.”

The centennial season’s “5th Quarter” postgame session gives fans some special moments with players. and

Chazz Palminteri is back on the Paramount stage with his electrifying solo performance of “A Bronx Tale,” the autobiographical one-man show that launched his remarkable career. Riveting and deeply personal, it draws on Palminteri’s bruising Bronx childhood, including the moment — at nine-years-old — when he witnessed a gangland killing that forever shaped his view of the world. Palminteri inhabits 18 vivid haracters, seamlessly shifting between friends, foes and family members to conjure an entire neighborhood with nothing but his voice, physicality and storytelling prowess. First written and performed in 1989, “A Bronx Tale” became a sensation, hailed as one of the most sought-after properties since “Rocky.” The original production paved the way for the acclaimed film adaptation — directed by Robert De Niro — and later a hit Broadway musical.

Sunday, Feb. 22, 7:30 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny. com.

• Feb. 21, 2 p.m.

pursue their dreams — anything is possible with good

Winston is as fanatical about basketball today as he was as a young player in his hometown of Russellville, Ala. His love of the sport has crossed from player to coach to motivational speaker. Winston dedicates his personal time to organizations that shine a light on the sport with emphasis on leadership, team work and focus. True joy for him comes with motivating kids to get out of their comfort zone and pursue their dreams — anything is possible with good character, good grades and hard work.

• Tickets range from $50-$200; available at ticketmaster.com and harlemglobetrotters.com

The Globetrotters have revolutionized the sport of basketball throughout its 100-year history, including popularizing the slam dunk The team’s roster includes Zeus McClurkin, who set a record for the most dunks in a minute with 16 in 2016.

• Nassau Coliseum, Hempstead Tpke., Uniondale

Guard Lucius “Too Tall” Winston’s favorite trick is the 2 Ball Spin. He holds eight Guinness World Records, including Most Figure Eight Dribbles in One Minute (2020 and Most Three Point Shots Made By a Pair in One Minute (2020).

In addition to the Globetrotters’ famed high-flying dunks, the number of longdistance shots are always a thrill.The Globetrotters famously introduced a 4-point shot in 201, 30 feet from the basket, which is seven feet longer than the NBA’s three-point line.

Winston, who played college basketball at Tuskegee University, relates that interaction with the fans is what makes attending a Globetrotter game particularly unique. Among the signature moments, the team holds a free postgame autograph session. And during the game those in the crowd are frequently called down to the court to participate in stunts. Everyone can also take part in premium options that enable pregame access to meet players along with joining the team for warmups on the court.

“You get to see guys that can play the game at a high level who can jump out of the gym and shoot the ball extremely well and you’ll also see plenty of entertainment as well,” Winston says. “It’s a high quality game from start to finish and then at the end fans are allowed to come down courtside and get autographs and take pictures with us.”

McClurkin, who set a record for the most dunks in a minute courtside and get autographs and take pictures with us.”

future Hall of Famers like Wilt Chamberlain and Connie Hawkins; or Curly Neal and Meadowlark

International icons, the Globetrotters are considered “ambassadors” of the game, beloved the world over for their special brand athleticism that combines the skills and foundations of basketball with a uniquely theatrical flare. From breaking the NBA color barrier with alums like Nat “Sweetwater” Clifton signing a pro contract as a member of the New York Knicks or courting future Hall of Famers like Wilt Chamberlain and Connie Hawkins; or Curly Neal and Meadowlark Lemon dazzling sellout crowds; to ushering women into professional basketball; to the current group, the Globetrotters’ reach and impact attract attention.

Tilles Center Atrium becomes an intimate lounge to showcase exciting up-and-coming jazz talent Sarah Hanahan, presented in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center. The dynamic, soulful alto saxophonist is swiftly emerging as one of the most compelling new voices in jazz. A graduate of both the Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz and The Juilliard School, she blends deeprooted swing and bebop traditions with a bold, modern intensitySince stepping onto the scene, Hanahan has performed with an extraordinary range of jazz luminaries. =Her commanding tone, technical mastery, and melodic imagination have taken her to major stages across the U.S. and abroad, with regular appearances at premier New York City venues. Whether fronting her own quartet or collaborating with some of the music’s most revered artists, Hanahan plays with passion, precision and an unwavering commitment to the ever-evolving art of jazz.

The current team of elite men and women, holders of an unprecedented 60+ Guinness World Records, including 18 set just last year — the most of any team in any sport — bring a fresh look of gravity-defying dunks and game-changing tricks against their renowned rivals in this special centennial season.

Thursday, Feb. 26, 7:30 p.m. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

FEB

19

Meet the animals

The Center for Science Teaching and Learning hosts Amazing Animals Week. Visitors can enjoy hands-on, close-up animal shows featuring the museum’s resident reptiles, mammals, and birds, including some behind-thescenes animals rarely seen, along with face painting and animalthemed crafts. The program is included with regular museum admission: $15 adults, $12 seniors, $12 ages 1–12,

• Where: 1450 Tanglewood Road

• Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., through Feb. 22

• Contact: (516) 764-0045

FEB

‘The Wedding

Singer’ Molloy University’s CAP21 Musical Theatre students stage the musical comedy based on the iconic film. The show will have you partying like it’s 1985! Travel back to the outrageous 1980s, when hair was huge, neon ruled fashion and everything MTV was “like, totally tubular.” Based on the mega-hit Adam Sandler movie, this Broadway romance about a heartbroken rock star wannabe finding love again is jam-packed with big laughs, dazzling dance numbers, and a score as bold and electric as the decade itself. From popped collars to power ballads, “The Wedding Singer” is a nostalgic, feel-good celebration of love, friendship, and all things ‘80s.

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

• Time: 8 p.m.; also Feb. 21, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; Feb 22, 3 p.m.

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

Family theater

Long Island Children’s Museum stages “Pete the Cat,” the charming musical based on the book series by Kimberly and James Dean. Life is certainly an adventure for Pete, no matter where he winds up. So the minute the groovy blue cat meets The Biddles, he gets the whole family rocking. That is, except for young Jimmy Biddle, the most organized second grader on planet Earth. But when Jimmy draws a blank in art class during the last week of school, it turns out Pete is the perfect pal to help him out. Together, they set out on a mission to help Jimmy conquer second grade art, and along the way, they both learn a little something new about inspiration. $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

FEB

27

University Performing Arts Center.

For 25 years and counting, the quartet has redefined chamber music for the 21st century through an “exhilarating blend of precision and anarchy, rigor and bedlam” (The New Yorker). Their commitment to the creation and amplification of new work have made them a trusted partner for composers, allowing the writing of music that expands the style and capacity of brilliant voices of our time.

• Where: Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: adelphi.edu/pac or 9516) 877-4000

“Don’t

stop believin’…

Voyage rocks on with another dynamic tribute to Journey. The popular band takes everyone back to the ‘80s when Journey’s timeless music ruled the airwaves. Hailed by fans and critics alike, the band performs the music with chilling accuracy. Voyage is celebrated for their uncanny ability to recreate the legendary sound, energy and passion of one of rock’s greatest bands. With their blistering guitar solos, lush keyboard arrangements, electrifying stage presence, and stunning harmonies, the band has earned a reputation as the ultimate homage to Journey’s timeless music. Fronted by vocalist Pedro Espada, whose range and tone is acclaimed as rivaling the iconic Steve Perry, he’s backed by a lineup of world-class musicians — Robby Hoffman, Greg Smith, Lance Millard, and Dana Spellman — who bring every note to life with precision and heart. Voyage doesn’t just perform Journey’s greatest hits, they transport audiences back to the height of arena rock glory. From the soaring ballads of “Faithfully” and “Open Arms” to the anthemic energy of “Don’t Stop Believin’” and “Separate Ways,” every performance is a journey through the soundtrack of a generation. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering the magic of Journey for the first time, Voyage promises a night of unforgettable rock ‘n’ roll.

• Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.: also Feb. 25-26

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

FEB

Defensive driving class

Rockville Centre Public Library hosts a defensive driving class. Lower your insurance premium or reduce points on your license. The cost is $29 for drivers 60 and over; all other drivers are $38. Fee is payable to the Empire Safety Council the day of instruction. Register in person, by phone or online. Bring a light snack

• Where: 221 N. Village Ave., Rockville Centre

• Time: This is an all day event; the library opens at 9 a.m.

• Contact: rvclibrary.org or (516) 766-6257

Billy Joel and Elton John tribute

Celebrate the unforgettable hits of Billy Joel and Elton John in this lively tribute at the Rockville Centre Public Library featuring pianist and vocalist Jay Daniels. With rich vocals and jazz-

infused flair, Daniels performs classics like “Piano Man”, “Your Song”, “Rocket Man” and more- bringing fresh life to the music of two pop legends in an afternoon of timeless tunes and nostalgic charm. The show was rescheduled from Jan. 25.

• Where: 221 North Village Ave.

• Time: 2 p.m.

• Contact: rvclibrary.org or (516) 766-6257

Estate planning basics

Join attorney Kathleen Rose of Feldman, Kramer and Monaco at the Rockville Centre Public Library. She covers wills, trusts, probates, Medicaid tips, planning for the future, and avoiding caregiver stress disorder. Rose, who is also a social worker, will answer questions and offer practical guidance.

• Where: 221 N. Village Ave., Rockville Centre

• Time: 6:30 p.m.

• Contact: rvclibrary.org or (516) 766-6257

The St. Agnes Cathedral School Board holds its monthly meeting in the faculty room. This

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

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

is an important opportunity for parents, students, and community members to stay up to date on key developments in local education, including upcoming initiatives.

• Where: 70 Clinton Ave., Rockville Centre

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 678-5550

Property tax seminar

Understanding your property assessment can affect your tax bill. Town of Hempstead Supervisor John Ferretti and Receiver of Taxes Jeanine C. Driscoll host forums to guide homeowners through the assessment challenge process, explain important deadlines, and outline next steps. This session at Rockville Centre Public Library will offer practical information for anyone looking to review their assessment.

• Where: 221 N. Village Ave., Rockville Centre

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: rvclibrary.org or (516) 766-6257

The Grammy-winning percussionists return to the

Carnival Long Island Children’s Museum invites families to a celebration of Caribbean and Latin American culture. Feel the rhythm and embrace the color at the Carnival Festival! Inspired by Caribbean and Latin American traditions, this high-energy celebration welcomes the changing of the seasons with music, dance, and joyful cultural activities for all. Decorate a parade float fit for the Carnival King and Queen; sample the sweet and savory flavors of the

• Where: 11 Davis. Ave., Garden City

• Time: 11 a.m.- 4 p.m.

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

Having an event?

Items on the Calendar page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to kbloom@ liherald.com.

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LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

Supreme Court County of Nassau Citizens Bank, N.A. s/b/m to Investors Bank, Plaintiff AGAINST Michael Brooks a/k/a Michael Ossam, Juliet Brooks a/k/a Juliet Ossam, et al, Defendant Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on January 15, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, North sides of the steps, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 18, 2026 at 2:00 PM premises known as 20 Woods Place, Rockville Centre, NY 11570. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the County of Nassau, State of New York, SECTION: 38, BLOCK: 396, LOT: 56. Approximate amount of judgment is $995,576.20 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 002813/2017. Brian James Carmody, Referee FRENKEL

LAMBERT WEISMAN & GORDON LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-084276 -F00 88882 158317

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF NASSAU

WILMINGTON

SAVINGS FUND

SOCIETY, FSB, D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT AS TRUSTEE FOR PRETIUM MORTGAGE

ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST

ARTHUR EDWARDS, ELIZABETH EDWARDS AKA ELIZABETH MC ARDLE, ET AL.,

Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered December 16, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 17, 2026 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 259 Lincoln Avenue, Rockville Centre, NY 11570. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Rockville Centre, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 38, Block 347, Lot (s) 380 & 381. Approximate amount of judgment $723,702.12 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Ind ex #609188/2019. Karen C. Grant, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 18-009233 88614 158313

LEGAL NOTICE

Public Notice to Bidders

Sealed Bids will be received by the Purchasing Department of the Village of Rockville Centre, One College Place, Rockville Centre, New York for the matter stated below until 11:00 am prevailing time on MARCH 12, 2026 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud. The contract will be

McDonald’s memory honored by NYPD

Continued from page 1

speechless, but she rendered me speechless,” Patti Ann, a former Malverne mayor who served that village from 1996 to 2019, said. “(Tisch) said how important Steven’s life and legacy was, his story about forgiveness, how he lived his life after being injured, and how important it is for future police officers to know his story.

“I was completely taken aback,” she added. “His name is going to be on the New York City Police Academy and every police officer that goes to train there is going to not only remember Steven and what he gave to the City of New York, but all the police officers who gave their lives for the city.”

breathe, he couldn’t move by himself. My dad never let that destroy him. My father’s message was not only forgiveness, but about love and nonviolence.”

Soon after the shooting, McDonald began speaking to community groups, schools and other organizations about the power of God and compassion, and did so until his death. McDonald traveled the world speaking about the power of forgiveness in places such as Northern Ireland, the Middle East, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

awarded as soon thereafter as practicable for: STORAGE GARAGE ROOF REPLACEMENT @ 10 SUNRISE HIGHWAY Bid No. 2603CP2(1178) The contract documents, specifications and plans can be examined on the Village’s website at www.rvcny.gov. Follow the link to the Purchasing Department. Each bid must be accompanied by a certified check, bank check or bid bond payable to the Incorporated Village of Rockville Centre in the amount of five (5%) percent of the gross amount of the bid. All questions should be directed to the Purchasing Department. Please contact Lisa Strazzeri via email only at Lstrazzeri@rvcny.us. Questions must be submitted no later than March 5, 2026. All potential bidders on this contract are required to attend mandatory site visit on February 26, 2026 at 11:00am at the Department of Public Works located at 10 Sunrise Highway, Rockville Centre. Award of Contract will be made to the lowest responsible bidder in accordance with applicable provisions of the law. The Village reserves the right to reject all bids or make such determination as in the best interests of the Village, as provided by law.

Purchasing Department

Lisa Strazzeri Purchasing Agent 516-678-9213 158470

LEGAL NOTICE

Public Notice to Bidders

Sealed Bids will be received by the Purchasing Department of the Village of Rockville Centre, One College Place, Rockville Centre, New York for the matter stated below until 11:00 am prevailing time on March 5, 2026 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud. The contract will be awarded as soon thereafter as practicable for: MISCELLANEOUS ASPHALT IMPROVEMENTS (VARIOUS LOCATIONS) Bid No. 2603CP1(1177) The contract documents, specifications and plans can be examined on the Village’s website at www.rvcny.gov. Follow the link to the Purchasing Department. All questions should be directed to the Purchasing Department. Please contact Lisa Strazzeri via email only at Lstrazzeri@rvcny.us. Questions must be submitted no later than February 26, 2026. Award of Contract will be made to the lowest responsible bidder in accordance with applicable provisions of the law. The Village reserves the right to reject all bids or make such determination as in the best interests of the Village, as provided by law.

Purchasing Department Lisa Strazzeri Purchasing Agent 516-678-9213 158469

Conor, who’s an NYPD captain, said, “My father felt it was his mission to keep going, to be a living representative for all the members of the NYPD who never made it home. My father wanted to make sure that their lives were never forgotten.”

McDonald was born in Queens Village in 1957 before his family moved to Rockville Centre seven years later. One of eight children, McDonald was a third-generation New York City police officer. His grandfather died in the line of duty, and a dozen members of his family also have been part of the NYPD. McDonald was a U.S. Navy hospital corpsman for four years before he joined the police force in 1984.

He married Patti Ann in November 1985, and only eight months later, after just two years as an officer, McDonald was shot in Central Park while investigating a bicycle theft. Fifteen-year-old Shavod Jones shot him three times, leaving him paralyzed from the neck down.

In a 2016 interview with the Herald, McDonald, a Catholic, said he had a spiritual awakening following the shooting. He publicly forgave Jones several months after the shooting, although the two never met. Jones was killed in a motorcycle accident three days after being released from prison in 1995, having served nine years of a 10-year sentence.

“Not only did he forgive him once, my dad forgave him every single day,” Conor said. “The pain my father experienced after the shooting was excruciating. He depended on a machine to

“My dad truly believed that the grace of God gave him the power to overcome that experience,” Conor said. “He wanted to connect with people. He was able to create peace and love in the world. He was just a man that had a wholesome heart and wanted to help.”

In 1989, McDonald wrote “The Steven McDonald Story” with the help of his wife and writer E.J. Kahn III.

After his death, several memorials were dedicated to McDonald, including a portion of the Southern State Parkway, named the Detective Steven McDonald Memorial Highway, and the Steven McDonald Garden of Forgiveness in Malverne’s Westwood Park.

“Detective Steven McDonald is not only a legend in our community but a world icon on what it means to forgive and live one’s life for others,” Malverne Mayor Tim Sullivan said. “It is only befitting that the City of New York is bestowing this wonderful honor, in his memory, to a department he so loved and dedicated his life to.”

Patti Ann continues to support the NYPD through her participation in Survivors of the Shield, an organization that aids widows of police officers. She also continues to spread her husband’s message of love and forgiveness.

“Steven would be extremely humbled to know the commissioner thought of him and wanted to name the academy after him,” she said. “To have his name on that building is just a tremendous honor.”

Conor said that in the future, “most of us who personally knew my father won’t be around, but the recruits who go to the academy and see the name Steve McDonald, they might wonder who that guy is, look into his story and see how he lived his life as a police officer and detective.”

News brief

Chamber looking for Snowman winner

After children spent a month hunting for snowmen around town, the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce is now hunting for the winner.

With the holiday season complete, the chamber has drawn the winning ticket in its Snowman Hunt promotion — but as of press time, no one had come forward to claim the prize.

Ticket No. 0733054 was announced Jan. 19 on the chamber’s social media

accounts. The post featured a video of Vice President Donna O’Reilly Eineman and Immediate Past President Lisa Umansky drawing the ticket.

The winner is asked to contact Umansky, owner of Polka Dot Pound Cake, at 516-544-2253.

The new deadline to claim the ticket is Feb. 28.

–Alyssa R. Griffin

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Gutter Care 101

Q. I just took a $2,500 contract to have gutter screens added to my rain gutters. Would you recommend this instead of the biannual flush cleaning I do, which costs $450 per service?

A. It is great that you monitor routine maintenance around your house, including rain gutters. The cost, if you pay $450 twice a year for your biannual gutter cleaning, is $900 per year. An expense of $2,500 for the rain gutter covers would pay for itself in a timeframe determined by dividing 2500 by 900, which would be 2.7 years. So in two years and nine months, your outlay of $2,500 would be paid off — but only if the gutter screens do not also need maintenance.

I went through a learning phase with my own rain gutters, except that I would flush the gutters by myself. At first I had gutters that were open and, with all the trees surrounding my home, the gutters filled every fall with leaves and the debris that had to be removed. I then bought gutter screens that snap in, although there were places where they couldn’t snap in because of the long nail shafts used to attach the gutters to the face board, referred to as fascia. In those places, the metal screens had to be trimmed with a hacksaw and tin snips. It was tedious but rewarding, because the leaves did not clog the gutters. Unfortunately, twigs and smaller debris managed to find their way through the screens, and the metal rusted.

Those screens lasted six years, before another product, called Leafguard Gutters, was brought to my attention. It is a gutter with a top that wraps around and is bent in a curve so water flows over the top of the rain gutter and then, by a phenomenon called adhesion, the water clings to the gutter top and flows into a thin opening that runs the length of the gutter. It works very well, and hardly anything gets into the thin horizontal continuous opening except the rain.

I did not touch the gutters for 15 years. Then one day a contractor noticed that my roof edge trim boards had discolored in places, and said he would gladly take care of it for me. I awoke one morning to loud banging, and when I looked out the window, several very energetic men had ripped all the trim from my home along with those rain gutters. It lay in a heap in the back of a pickup truck, and within two hours my fascia boards were covered in spanking new white aluminum and I had brand new, open-top gutters.

So, back at square one, I began cleaning gutters again, every fall, until one day, when I saw Leafguard stainless mesh gutter covers with a lifetime guarantee. They completely eliminated the debris, but require occasional brushing to keep clean, at a much higher price. It still pays to put on the screens. Good luck!

© 2026 Monte Leeper

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

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I’m focused on getting New York’s tax dollars back

For decades, New Yorkers have faced high taxes, rising prices and infrastructure in need of repair. At the same time, we’ve been subsidizing other states with our federal tax dollars. New York is a big “donor” state, while most red states are “taker” states. I’m always trying to bring money back to my district, and in the past couple of weeks I’ve had some new success doing just that. I announced more than $17 million in funding for community projects in my district.

Everyone knows that we’re facing a cost-of-living crisis. From health care to housing, energy to groceries, prices are sky-high. To make matters worse, New Yorkers bear one of the heaviest tax burdens in the country, which only adds to our cost of living. People are leaving our state at a record pace.

When I was born, New York had more than 40 representatives in the U.S. House. Now we only have 26. That number will be smaller after the next census,

tOas low-tax states continue to grow rapidly while New York’s population stays essentially the same. That’s not just a loss of political power, but a referendum on how expensive it is to live here. Between our skyhigh property taxes and the loss of our full SALT deduction (which I continue to fight to reinstate), it’s no wonder people are moving out.

They’re fleeing to red states in the South with much lower state taxes.

The irony is that states like New York have long sent more money to the federal government than we get back, and Washington spends it propping up “poor” states like Florida, South Carolina and Tennessee. For every dollar we pay in federal taxes, we get 91 cents back. Kentucky gets $2.50. It’s just unfair.

in Congress is simple and direct: bring our money back home.

I’m working to make sure my constituents get a fairer return on the dollars we contribute to the federal government. That means fighting for federal funding that eases the burden on local governments, strengthens our infrastructure and protects public health and safety.

hat means fighting for federal funding to ease the burden on local governments.

Recently that work paid off. I secured millions of dollars worth of projects for my district, making sure federal money was included in a funding package that Democrats and Republicans worked together to craft. Those funds will support a wide range of critical projects that directly affect my constituents’ lives.

the Glen Cove Police Department. In Bethpage, the money will help build infrastructure to remove chemicals from the water supply linked to the Navy-Grumman plume. It will help create a vibrant downtown in Huntington by supporting affordable housing and business spaces. And in Lattingtown, these funds will go toward repairing emergency evacuation routes along East Beach Drive, improving our roads and safety during severe weather.

Securing funds for sewer repairs and water wells isn’t glamorous work, but it’s crucial. It’s not only about improving public health, environmental protection and local infrastructure; it’s also about fairness. New Yorkers contribute massively to the federal government, subsidizing growth in other states, and it’s time we got our fair share back.

Meanwhile, our town and village governments are under water. Our infrastructure is older and more expensive to maintain, and local budgets scramble to keep up. While New Yorkers fund new projects in the South, our own infrastructure risks lagging behind and our taxes continue to rise. We have been subsidizing our own demise.

That’s why one of my core missions

They’ll help replace old sewer pipes in Roslyn and Manorhaven, and replace old cesspools with new sewer lines in Sea Cliff. They will help prevent harmful runoff into Hempstead Harbor and Manhasset Bay, helping preserve our Long Island Sound ecosystem. Other projects will protect drinking water supplies from so-called “forever chemicals” and other contaminants.

The funding will also provide muchneeded technology and equipment for

I’ll never stop fighting to make sure we get back as much of the money we send to the federal government as possible, and use it to lessen the pressure on local budgets, improve our public health and safety, and reduce costs. In the months ahead I’ll propose a dramatic change to the federal tax code to try and bring more of New Yorkers’ money back to New York, to reduce our tax burden. Stay tuned.

Tom Suozzi represents the 3rd Congressional District.

The question ‘why’ haunts county government

ften as a Nassau County legislator, I find myself questioning why certain issues unfold the way they do. On many occasions and with increased frequency in this hyper-partisan age, the operations of government are closely tied to politics.

The “why,” however, isn’t always readily apparent — and it’s our job as legislators to dig deeper and identify the cases in which that connection is found beneath the surface. Take contracts for outside legal counsel, for instance. While the county continues to benefit from an attorney’s office staffed by many qualified lawyers, it is occasionally necessary to outsource highly complex cases to firms with special expertise. The emphasis, however, should be on “occasionally.”

During the administration of former County Executive Laura Curran, the county spent approximately $5 million for this service. Fast-forward to 2025 and the administration of Bruce Blakeman, and a recent audit by the Nassau Inter-

im Finance Agency identified more than $23 million in spending on outside legal counsel last year alone.

Many of these outside-counsel contracts are for cases that are ill-advised legally or should be handled in-house. Some recent examples include spending $3.2 million to defend county fee practices that courts have already ruled illegal or unconstitutional; millions to defend a case brought by Newsday, alleging financial retaliation over critical coverage; and millions more right after Election Day 2025.

It’s time for the Legislature to reassert its role as a coequal branch.

The last included a contract for a Republican legislative candidate. While Blakeman’s administration initiated it last spring, they failed to disclose it until after Election Day, when it arrived at the Legislature for our consideration.

While the “why” was abundantly clear in that example, the answer for many of the other contracts can be found only in the fine print. Every proposal the Legislature receives comes with a list of the firm’s political contributions, as required by county law. Most, if not all, of those donations go to the county executive or his Republican colleagues in the Legislature.

The same holds true for Blakeman’s

disastrous handling of the Department of Assessment. According to one assessment expert, the tax rolls are more inaccurate now than they have been at any point in the past 25 years — so why has Blakeman chosen to keep them frozen, do nothing, and then dishonestly claim that he “fixed” the system? Campaign donations.

The firms that challenge homeowners’ assessments each year make huge sums of money by taking advantage of dysfunctional, indefensible tax rolls that are riddled with inaccuracies and discrepancies. And, right on cue, those firms donate generously to Blakeman and the Republicans, who keep the system broken for their benefit — and county property owners are the ones who end up paying the price.

Finally, the “why” I find hardest to accept is related to the county’s nearly $100 million in opioid fund reserves. For nearly five years, most of these funds have sat in bank accounts, and as of December, a review of Nassau’s financial system shows that less than 7 percent of the money has made it out of those bank accounts and into actual treatment initiatives.

The technical nature of the “why” in

this case makes it no less an outrage. The county’s financial condition is monitored by Moody’s and other rating agencies, and municipal reserves are a major factor in their determinations. Instead of delivering resources to agencies that offer lifesaving prevention, treatment and recovery resources to people struggling with addiction, Nassau has released the funds at a snail’s pace. Having these funds on the books artificially increases the county’s total reserves. While that may have helped our bond ratings, that’s little comfort for families that are desperate for help and hope.

Now that we understand the “why” behind these glaring examples of dysfunction, it’s incumbent on us all to answer the next-most-important question — “how?” How do we correct these errors? How do we install guardrails to prevent their return? And most important, how do we ensure that we are always serving the people of Nassau County to the best of our ability?

That must be our mission throughout 2026. It’s time for the Legislature to reassert its crucial role as a coequal branch of government, and challenge the county executive when his administration’s actions conflict with the best interests of county residents.

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

Established 1990 Incorporating

Brian KacharaBa

alyssa r. Griffin

rhonda GlicKman Vice President - Sales

2 Endo Boulevard

City,

Phone: (516) 569-4000

Fax: (516) 569-4942

HERALD

aMisleading safety data could hurt kids

Feb. 2 report, “Violent and Disruptive Incidents and Bullying in New York Schools,” from State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli should serve as a wake-up call for anyone tempted to declare victory on school safety.

While official data shows that rates of “serious” violent and disruptive incidents are near zero, bullying, cyberbullying and drug-related incidents are rising statewide — in many cases exceeding pre-pandemic levels. That disconnect matters, because it reveals a system that risks measuring safety by definitions rather than by students’ lived experiences.

According to DiNapoli’s analysis of seven years of School Safety and Educational Climate data from the State Education Department, bullying is now the most frequently reported school safety incident.

In the 2023-24 school year, bullying, not including cyberbullying, accounted for nearly two-thirds of all reported incidents statewide. Almost 30,000 bullying incidents were reported, translating to 12.4 incidents per 1,000 pupils. In schools that reported at least one incident, the rate was far higher.

Cyberbullying, meanwhile, remains officially “low” in the data, but that is precisely the problem. Anonymity, offcampus activity and the digital lives students have after dismissal make cyberbullying notoriously difficult to detect and report. The report itself acknowledges that many incidents likely go unreported. When nearly 35 percent of public schools report no bullying or

letters

Our schools need financial transparency

To the Editor:

cyberbullying incidents, the question is not whether bullying exists, but whether schools are capturing it honestly.

Drug-related incidents tell a similar story. After dropping during the period of remote learning, the number of drug incidents in secondary schools has risen above pre-Covid levels. Statewide rates climbed from 4.2 incidents per 1,000 students in 2017-18 to 6.5 in 2023-24, with especially high rates in upstate districts. These are not abstract numbers. They reflect daily realities that students, teachers and families confront in hallways, bathrooms and social spaces.

Yet at the same time these troubling trends are rising, reports of serious violent and disruptive incidents — such as assault, sexual offenses and weapons possession — have plummeted. That decline coincides not with a dramatic transformation of school culture, but with changes to reporting definitions implemented in 2021-22. Under the revised rules, incidents are only reportable if the offender is at least 10 years old, the incident meets felony criteria, and it has been referred to law enforcement.

The result is a dataset that may be technically accurate under state rules, but deeply misleading if taken at face value. Schools may still experience serious incidents that never meet the threshold for state reporting, creating a false sense of security for parents and policymakers who rely on these numbers to assess safety.

This is not the intent of New York’s school safety laws. The Safe Schools Against Violence in Education Act,

Our community is standing at a financial and academic crossroads that many of our neighbors have yet to realize. The Rockville Centre School District is facing a staggering $7 million deficit. While administrators claim half of this gap will be closed by not replacing retirees, we are still left to contemplate a remaining $3.5 million deficit.

The proposed short-term solution — deeper staff reductions and higher taxes — is known to be generally ineffective in the long run. Yet viable alternatives, such as school mergers/consolidations, learning model redesigns and resource re-alignments, are not being considered.

As a parent-taxpayer, I have been following the budget meetings. Thus far I have yet to see the one thing any responsible person needs to make an informed decision: the district’s financial data. If you asked to see your bank statement and were met

enacted in 2000, and the Dignity for All Students Act, adopted a decade later, were designed to protect young people and ensure transparency in reporting harassment, bullying and violence. After the Sandy Hook tragedy in Connecticut, New York state rightly sought to refine and streamline reporting to focus on prevention. But refinement must not become minimization.

Limiting cellphone use during the school day is a modest step in the right direction. It will reduce in-school distractions. But bullying and cyberbullying don’t stop at the dismissal bell. Students carry their social worlds and their conflicts home in their pockets. Without sustained education, intervention and accountability, phones will simply resume their role as weapons after school hours.

Schools need to be honest with themselves about what these incidents are and properly report them to the State Education Department. That honesty isn’t about protecting reputations or presenting a picture of perfect calm. It’s about identifying real problems so they can be addressed.

Pretending a school or district is blissful may look good on paper, but it does nothing to protect students. Reliable, transparent data is the foundation of meaningful solutions.

If we want safer schools in reality and not just safer statistics, we must confront bullying, cyberbullying and substance use head-on, report them accurately, and commit to prevention that extends beyond the school day. Our children deserve nothing less.

Nurses get the short end of the educational stick

Dr. William osler, one of the founders of Johns Hopkins Hospital and a pioneer in medical education and history said, “The trained nurse has become one of the great blessings of humanity, taking a place beside the physician and the priest.” Now, though, we have nurses on strike for safer working conditions and greater compensation, and educators decrying federal action to withdraw graduate nursing education from the category of “professional.”

The members of a profession are highly educated, with specialized knowledge, may be required to pass stateapproved licensure exams, and pledge to certain ideals. In the case of nursing, the pledge is to patient welfare, compassion and trust, building knowledge in the field, lifelong learning, teamwork, professional integrity, an ethical code, skillful care, and humanity. Like other professions, nursing requires prolonged learning and licensure.

So imagine the surprise to nurses, nurse educators, nurse researchers, nurse executives, hospital administrators and others when the U.S. Depart-

ment of education declared that an advanced degree in nursing did not qualify for federal student aid. Yet advanced education is one of the pathways for advancement in nursing, and many employers require a master’s degree.

In response to critical reactions to its decree, the department said it did not mean that nursing is not a profession, just that advanced nursing education at the master’s and doctoral levels did not qualify for federal student loans. In addition to reducing the amount students can borrow under the Graduate PLUS program, which previously allowed up to the full cost of a program, the government has cut in half the amount that students in nursing and social work, among others disciplines, can borrow for advanced education.

es universities to raise tuition even in fields that have limited employment opportunities and low compensation. That is certainly not the case in nursing. others support the department, arguing that there is a strong correlation between extended graduate study for women and our low rate of childbearing.

a n advanced degree in nursing doesn’t qualify for federal student aid.

No such limits have been proposed for medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, veterinary medicine, optometry, osteopathic medicine, podiatry, chiropractic, theology, law or clinical psychology. Architects, physical therapists, social workers, computer scientists and accountants, however, join nursing in losing their professional status.

The education Department is trying to limit access to government-backed loans for graduate degrees because, it says, the availability of loans encourag-

Letters

with silence, you’d be worried. If you were told you had to pay a huge bill without seeing the charges, you’d be outraged. Yet this is exactly what the district is asking of Rockville Centre taxpayers.

We are being pressured to “debate” and fund a budget without being shown a Fund Balance Report (i.e., a snapshot of the district’s bank account). The community has requested this information, but it has not been made available. If our savings are trending downward (as spending has skyrocketed), we need to see that trajectory in black and white, not in PowerPoint slides. Change requires conversations that the district seems intent on delaying. Some community members believe we have viable options for structural reform, such as moving to a Princeton Plan (grade-level schooling) or consolidating our elementary schools. Many have also proposed that the district re-evaluate our general-education learning model — which requires “advanced for all” and IB curriculum, regardless of students’ ability. While this formulation is touted by the district as core to our identity, the current implementation is fiscally unsustainable and, as evidenced by our rankings and proficiency rates, is not producing the results we would hope for.

At the same time, our teachers are expected to deliver an increasingly complex curriculum, but because training

According to public reports, there are approximately 57,000 registered nurses on Long Island, with an average age of 46. In New York City and the Downstate region, there is a critical shortage of certain categories of nursing, with “disaster emergencies” declared in Manhattan, the Bronx and Nassau County. In upstate New York, over 93 percent of hospitals report extreme difficulty in recruiting RNs, and 97 percent struggle with retention. Hospitals and nursing homes have the most difficulty recruiting and retaining RNs.

Long Island is fortunate to have universities that offer baccalaureate and higher nursing programs, including Adelphi, Farmingdale, Hofstra, LIU, Molloy, NYIT, St. Joseph’s and Stony Brook. Yet even with these resources, shortages remain. With the new federal guidelines, those shortages will likely persist, while retention rates drop.

I have seen the profession of nursing

from four distinct vantage points. As assistant commissioner of Higher education in Indiana in the 1970s, I was involved in a national study of nursing supply and demand commissioned by the National Governor’s Association. In the 1980s I initiated a nursing program at Ramapo College of New Jersey, in partnership with the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, which did not offer nursing.

In the 2000s I led the rebuilding of Adelphi’s historic nursing program, which had been neglected by a previous administration. We built new, state-ofthe-art nursing labs and teaching spaces, with the help of leaders at Winthrop and Northwell hospitals.

From these experiences, I learned a great deal about nursing education and practice. They are professionals at every level of education.

More than 150 Republicans and Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives have authored a bill, the Professional Student Degree Act, that would include graduate nursing education in the category of professional degree, and give graduate nursing students access to the federal student-aid programs for which they were eligible just last year. Let’s hope that wisdom prevails in Congress, with hearty encouragement from grateful patients.

Robert A. Scott is president emeritus of Adelphi University and the author of “How University Boards Work.”

was/is delayed, they are stuck in a cycle of always playing catch-up. This forces teachers to prioritize new state mandates over foundational skills, which is exhausting our staff and eroding morale. With educators already stretched, cutting additional staff will have a direct negative impact on our children.

When I moved back to this district in 2010, South Side High School was ranked the 46th best high school in the country (and No. 1 on Long Island) by U.S. News & World Report. In 2025-26, South Side was ranked 611th. During that time, our budget increased from $93.5 million to $139.89 million. But the district continues to send the message that the problems were factors beyond our control — aid cuts, insurance hikes and inflation — but these are issues that all school districts are navigating. Something must change.

The district should be more transparent about the state of our finances. A starting point would be to provide the Fund Balance Report so we can have an educated discussion of what’s best for us, our teachers and, most important, our children. We’re all in this together, but the only way to have a constructive dialogue is to provide residents with the critical information needed to make informed decisions.

MARLeeN MACCoNe Rockville Centre resident and parent