Rockville Centre Herald 05-28-2026

HERALD ROCKVILLE CENTRE

Side High School sophomore, had his hand raised after his second-round tKo victory over alverio Rodriguez in his kickboxing debut on May 16.

SSHS wrestling star wins kickboxing debut by

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

In the final seconds before his amateur kickboxing debut at the “Combat at the Space” event in Westbury, South Side High School sophomore Frank DiBenedetto stood calmly inside the ring, carrying years of training and preparation into one defining moment.

He wasn’t pacing or searching for confidence — because he already had it.

The May 16 bout against Alverio Rodriguez marked DiBenedetto’s first amateur kickboxing fight, but the 16-year-old entered

with the mindset of someone who believed he belonged in that ring.

Nearly a decade of training at Tiger Schulmann’s Mixed Martial Arts in Rockville Centre, combined with a standout wrestling career at South Side, had prepared him for the opportunity.

When the bell rang, DiBenedetto immediately pressed forward, controlling the pace and forcing exchanges in the clinch. A series of punishing knees overwhelmed Rodriguez and forced multiple standing eight counts before the referee stopped the bout 53 seconds into the second round, awarding

16

By AlYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

More than 1,000 members of Molloy University’s class of 2026 celebrated a milestone moment on the South Shore oceanfront last week, crossing the stage at the Northwell at Jones Beach Theater, cheered on by thousands of family members and friends beneath sunny skies.

The graduating class included 703 bachelor’s degree recipients, 295 graduate students who earned master’s degrees and 30 doctoral graduates.

Please do not be disheartened or discouraged by what you are seeing right now, even if some of it breaks your heart.

“This is always a triumphant day, and even better that it’s here at an iconic Long Island location where we can all celebrate,” James P. Lentini, Molloy’s president, said. “We hear a lot about challenges for new graduates, but our students have studied in practical fields, and they always find success when they leave us.”

The university recognized

two top graduates during the May 18 ceremony. Isabella Schaefer, of East Rockaway, was the valedictorian, and Grace Wilson, of Hicksville, was the salutatorian. Schaefer earned a bachelor’s degree in adolescent education with a specialization in biology, along with minors in physical science and earth science and a biliteracy seal.

Jo NAPolItANo Commencement speaker

“These experiences have taught me the importance of staying open-minded and true to myself, values Molloy has truly instilled in me,” Schaefer said in her remarks to her classmates. “I encourage each and every one of you to reflect on the moments from your time here that have shaped you, whether they are shared or uniquely your own.” Wilson graduated with a degree in interdisciplinary studies, with concentrations in philosophy and theology and religious studies.

“St. Dominic suggests pursuContinued on page 10

Newest board members outline priorities

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

Rockville Centre voters signaled a shift in direction for the Board of Education on May 19, electing challengers Christa Dorrego and Mary Beth Joyce in a three-seat race shaped by a difficult budget cycle, staffing reductions and calls for greater transparency in district decision-making.

Dorrego led all candidates with 1,955 votes, followed by Joyce with 1,947, unseating incumbent Janet Gruner, who received 1,347 votes. The same day, voters approved a $141.3 million school budget by a 1,915-1,195 margin.

Both will take office July 1.

Dorrego said she felt the vote reflected not only a desire for change, but also a sense of trust placed in her by voters as she emerged as the top vote-getter in the race.

“I was pleased that I felt that they put their confidence in me,” she said. “It made me feel good that they had the trust in me, and I’m committed to continuing that and maintaining their trust.”

Joyce said her campaign focused on financial oversight and long-term planning, which she believes resonated with voters.

“I think a lot of voters were looking for someone with a strong financial

Christa Dorrego and Mary Beth Joyce were elected to the Rockville Centre Board of Education on May 19, filling two seats and unseating incumbent Janet Gruner in a race shaped by budget concerns and calls for greater transparency.

background,” she said. “They want someone to take strong leadership on the finance side of the board.”

The approved budget includes a 1.03 percent increase in spending and a 2.06 percent tax levy increase, equal to an estimated $309 annual rise for the average homeowner.

To offset costs, the district is reducing more than 20 teaching positions, along with cuts to teacher assistants and administrative staff, largely

through attrition and retirements. Officials said they aim to preserve core classroom instruction.

A $2 million capital transfer will fund projects including renovations at South Side Middle School, HVAC upgrades at Jennie E. Hewitt Elementary School, playground improvements at Covert and Watson elementary schools, and districtwide infrastructure repairs.

Dorrego said her immediate focus in her new role will be listening and learn-

BELMONT PARK VILLAGE

ing district operations before making changes, with an emphasis on student support and maintaining program stability during the transition. She said one of the biggest concerns she has heard from residents centers on this year’s budget process and a lack of clarity around how decisions were made.

“I think people are frustrated and asking, ‘How did we get here, and why didn’t we know sooner?’” she said. “We need to improve how we communicate budget issues and program changes so the community understands what’s being discussed and why.”

Dorrego added that a stronger and more transparent dialogue could help rebuild trust and ensure residents feel informed about district decision-making.

Joyce said she plans to prioritize long-term financial planning, clearer budget communication and improved transparency in how district data is presented to the public.

She said her election reflects a desire for stability and clearer direction from the board.

“I think that the community elected Chris and I because they want to see change on the board and we both have really positive views on the potential of the district long term,” Joyce said. “I think people are looking for stability and kind of hoping that this is putting everything on the right path.”

Island

from

Memorial Day spirit endures despite rain

Despite rain forcing the cancellation of the annual Rockville Centre Memorial Day parade on May 25, residents still gathered to honor the nation’s fallen service members during an indoor memorial ceremony at the John A. Anderson Recreation Center.

The ceremony drew a large crowd of veterans, local officials, Scouts from throughout Rockville Centre and community members who filled the center after weather conditions made it unsafe for the parade to proceed through the village streets. Organizers moved the observance indoors to ensure the village’s annual tradition of remembrance continued uninterrupted.

This year’s parade grand marshal, retired Colonel Edward G. Casazza, addressed attendees during the ceremony. Casazza, a longtime U.S. Army officer with more than three decades of military service, spoke about the importance of remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice and preserving the meaning behind Memorial Day.

Throughout his military career, Casazza served in numerous transportation and artillery leadership roles and supported operations including Desert Shield, Desert Storm and the Global War on Terrorism. He received several military honors, including the Legion of Merit and the Meritorious Service Medal. Casazza’s brother, Paul, served as the parade’s grand marshal in 2005.

Rockville Centre Mayor Francis X. Murray and American Legion Post 303 Chaplain Mark Getman also spoke during the ceremony, thanking veterans and residents for continuing to honor Memorial Day despite the weather.

By the conclusion of the indoor ceremony, the rain had stopped, allowing participants to move outside the recreation center for the traditional wreath-laying ceremony beside the Vietnam War memorial in tribute to fallen military service members.

The seven wreaths featured red, white and blue floral arrangements with sashes representing the Rockville Centre Police Department, Rockville Centre Fire Department, the Police Benevolent Association, Cub Scout Pack 163, Scouting America Troops 163, 214 and 40, Legion Post 303 and Glynn Funeral Home.

–Brian Kacharaba

4

Crime watCh

homiCide (natural)

On May 21, an 86-year-old resident was discovered deceased in her Nottingham Road residence.

larCenies

On May 16, a Rockville Centre resident reported that someone stole his AirPods when he briefly left them on a table in Panera on Merrick Road.

ProPerty damage

On May 18, a Rockville Centre Department of Public Works employee reported damage to the newly installed edging on the bridle path in Hempstead Lake State Park.

unauthorized use of a vehiCle

On May 21, the manager of U-Haul on Maple Avenue reported that a vehicle was not returned at the agreed-upon time and was several weeks overdue.

On May 23, a Hempstead resident reported that someone stole her wallet containing her credit cards from her purse while she was at a party on Merrick Road.

On May 24, a Banks Avenue resident reported his package was delivered but stolen from the mailroom of his apartment building.

unusual inCident

On May 19, a TD Bank employee reported that someone tampered with the ATM at their Merrick Road branch.

arrest

leaving the sCene

On May 22, a Baldwin resident reported that she was involved in an accident at Long Beach Road and Lakeview Avenue and the other vehicle fled the scene.

On May 21, Randy White, 42, of Westbury, was found to have an open arrest warrant from Nassau County for assault after he was stopped by police due to his disorderly conduct at 7-11 on Merrick Road.

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.

Subtitled “The Art and Science of Thriving in Life’s Second Half”, this book reflects the natural progression of our desire to increase our lifespan (the number of our years), to increasing our healthspan (the number of our healthy years), to increasing our joyspan (the number of our joyful years). The author defines joy as an inner feeling of well-being or contentment, as opposed to happiness, which comes and goes, often according to external circumstances.

Burnight writes, “To thrive in old age means to live a fulfilling, purposeful, and satisfying life despite the challenges of aging. It involves maximizing physical health, cognitive function, emotional well-being, social connections, and a sense of meaning. Thriving doesn’t mean being free of all health problems or challenges, rather, it emphasizes resilience, adaptability, and the ability to find joy and value in life.”

Research shows that those who thrive late in life:

Grow: They continue to explore and expand

Connect: They put time into new and existing relationships

Adapt: They adjust to changing and challenging circumstances

Give: They share themselves

As a Professor of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, Dr. Burnight was struck by the radical difference in how people experienced their own aging process. “For some it is a frustrating, degrading, painful trajectory of ever-increasing decline. For others, there is visible delight, spirituality, and joy in occupying their eighth, ninth, and tenth decades.”

The thieves of joy are (1) comparison with others (2) frustration with health and mobility limitations (3) feeling like you are a burden (4) feeling heartbroken over the loss of a loved one, and (5) feeling defeated as if your best days are behind you. Nevertheless, she says, “Like the sun, joy is always there. But when it’s hidden by clouds, we mistakenly say it’s gone. Joy is resilient and can break through the clouds because it’s an innate part of the human experience.”

“One might say that following this doctor’s prescription will increase your “joyspan” and decrease your “oyspan”!

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

May 17 – Ma y 24

General Alarms – 17

Still Alarms – 5

Rescue – 9

Aided Cases (Ambulance) – 49

Mutual Aid Fire – 0

Mutual Aid Rescue – 0

Mutual Aid Ambulance – 0

Total – 80

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 – 225

Still Alarms – 128

Rescue – 93

Aided Cases (Ambulance) – 1,013

Mutual Aid Fire – 32

Mutual Aid Rescue – 0

Mutual Aid Ambulance – 4

Total – 1,495

Community unites for Smith Pond cleanup

In observance of Earth Day, Nassau County Legislator Scott M. Davis joined forces with Rockville Centre Mayor Francis X. Murray, New York State Assemblywoman Judy Griffin, and State Sen. Siela A. Bynoe to host a community cleanup at Smith Pond, drawing about 15 volunteers to help restore the area following the event’s postponement due to inclement weather.

Residents, families and local organizations gathered onaround the pond on May 16 to collect litter and debris, filling more than 15 bags of garbage during the cleanup effort. Volunteers included members of the Hispanic Brotherhood, Operation SPLASH, the Rockville Centre Civic Association, the Rockville Centre Conservancy and the Rockville Centre Police Benevolent Association.

The cleanup was originally scheduled for April 26, shortly after Earth Day, but it was postponed it because of inclement weather. The rescheduled event took place under beautiful sunny skies.

“I am so grateful to the individuals, children, families and organizations who joined together to participate in our Earth Day Cleanup at Smith Pond,” Griffin said. “Together, we made a difference and demonstrated why it is essential to nurture and protect our environment and keep our shorelines pristine.”

Bynoe emphasized the importance of

environmental responsibility as warmer weather brings more people outdoors.

“As the weather gets warmer, we all want to get out and enjoy the sunshine, but it is important that when we do, we treat our environment with respect,”

Bynoe said. “Gathering with the dedicated group on Saturday morning

GLYNN FUNERAL HOME

allowed us to do our part in keeping our neighborhoods beautiful.”

Davis said preserving public spaces requires a collective community effort.

“Smith Pond is one of Rockville Centre’s most tranquil destinations, and as community stewards, each of us has a role in preserving it for the benefit of

our children and for generations to come,” Davis said. “It is always a pleasure to roll up my sleeves alongside my partners in government and so many dedicated volunteers to protect our planet.”

–Brian Kacharaba

At Mercy Hospital, putting patients first means delivering better outcomes—through advanced technology, a growing option of surgical services, greater cardiac services provided by St. Francis Heart Center, an enhanced Emergency Department, and exceptional family and maternity care.

This focus on better care defines us—and has earned national recognition, including a CMS 5-Star rating and an “A” grade from The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Group.

Because better is something we live every day. And it never stops.

Learn more at chsli.org/mercy-hospital

Israeli Elite hockey comes to UBS arena

With late third-period rally, Jerusalem Capitals capture Challenge Cup, defeating HC Tel Aviv 6-5

By HAILEY FULMER hfulmer@liherald.com

No matter who scored, fans throughout UBS Arena jumped to their feet, waving Israeli flags, proudly cheering on competitors from the Israeli Elite Hockey League last week during the Challenge Cup championship between the Jerusalem Capitals and HC Tel Aviv. In a thrilling game, the Capitals mounted a late comeback to win 6-5.

The Challenge Cup, originally scheduled for February but postponed because of a blizzard, finally brought the two teams together on the ice in Elmont for a hard-fought game.

The atmosphere inside the arena on May 17 felt like more than just a hockey game. Families packed the stands dressed in blue and red, and there was loud chanting and spirited flag-waving throughout the crowd, creating a strong sense of pride and unity among fans celebrating both the sport and Israeli culture.

“It’s nice when you get to see support a lot for Jews and the country,” said spectator Hillel Kober, who was rooting for HC Tel Aviv.

Brooklyn resident David Silverberman said the game provided a comforting atmosphere amid a culture of rising antisemitism. “It’s a good game,” he said.” It’s very competitive scoring, but not too much. The fans are into it. It’s an exciting day, and you know, if you’re Jewish, there’s so much antisemitism going on right now, it feels very comfortable to be here. It’s nice to see the families too.”

The IEHL, founded in 2020 and approaching its sixth season this summer, was founded by Marc Brunengraber, a former goaltender for the Israeli national team. Brunengraber said the league was created not only to develop hockey talent in Israel, but also to highlight another side of the country.

“The goal is to raise Israel from the world championship Division II level to Division I,” Brunengraber said. He added that the league aims to positively represent Israel beyond the conflict-focused narratives that often dominate coverage of the country, emphasizing that its citizens continue to live everyday lives as ordinary people.

The championship game was intense from start to finish, marked by heavy physical play, shifting momentum and a UBS Arena crowd that fed off every moment of drama. Tel Aviv controlled play for much of the first two periods, keeping Jerusalem players on their heels and forcing them to fight just to stay within reach heading into the third.

Capitals player Nathanel Peretz described the surreal feeling of stepping onto the ice at UBS Arena.

“There’s kids growing up dreaming of this moment, and you’re seeing Jerusalem against Tel Aviv, and a bunch of Jewish people just playing the sport they love,” he said.

Peretz admitted that the locker room atmosphere was tense after the second period with Jerusalem trailing by two goals. “It’s the second year that we [were down by] two goals going into the third,” he said. “We trusted our coaches, we trusted our captain, we trusted our players, and we got out there in the third.”

Late in the third period, the Capitals suddenly took over. Two goals came just seconds apart, and suddenly Tel Aviv was scrambling to keep up. The energy in the arena flipped instantly as fans rose to their feet, and the game intensified dramatically in the final minutes.

Capitals head coach Craig Brunengraber said the team had to manage intense emotions to complete the comeback. “You have a lot of strong personalities,” he said. “At the end of the day, we won the game, and that’s the hardest part about being a coach.”

He also praised Peretz’s performance, saying, “Peretz is all heart and soul. He shows the world he can do this on a world stage.”

Despite the loss, Tel Aviv captain Mike Gennello reflected on the broader meaning of the game. “Guys can get on the ice and it can be an absolute war out there, and then we get off and it’s all smiles,” he said.

As Jerusalem celebrated its comeback victory on the ice, fans throughout the arena remained standing, waving Israeli flags, giving the scene a powerful sense of pride in their country — and the game of hockey.

St. Agnes show to feature Beethoven’s Ninth

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

The powerful sounds of Beethoven, Bach and Mozart will fill St. Agnes Cathedral on May 29 when the South Shore Symphony and the cathedral’s choir join forces for a performance headlined by Beethoven’s monumental Symphony No. 9.

The annual concert, presented by the Rockville Centre Guild for the Arts and St. Agnes Cathedral Parish, will feature about 140 performers between the orchestra and choir, according to music director Michael Bower.

“It’s going to be pretty powerful,” Bower said. “Beethoven’s Ninth is a powerful piece to begin with. The orchestra is going to be about 70 players, and the choir is going to be about 70, so there’s going to be like 140 people playing and singing, and of course in our cathedral. It’s a powerful sound with the acoustics and everything.”

The performance, scheduled for 7:30 p.m., will open with Mozart’s “Regina Coeli in C Major,” Bach’s “Mass in B Minor: Dona Nobis” and Beethoven’s “Christ on the Mount of Olives: Hallelujah” before concluding with Symphony No. 9 in D minor, also known as the “Choral” symphony.

The South Shore Symphony will be conducted by Adam Glaser and the con-

Deliah Roberts/Herald

Michael Bower will conduct the Choirs of St. Agnes Cathedral as they join the South Shore Symphony for a performance of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 and other classical works on May 29.

cert will also feature soloists Risa Renae Harman, Elizabeth Sarian, Eric Carey and Scott Lefurgy.

Bower said the production marks the fourth time St. Agnes has staged Beethoven’s Ninth, with previous per-

formances taking place in 2000, 2009 and 2017.

“The words are so powerful, it’s talking about love for fellow man,” Bower said. “The words are beautiful about enjoyment of life and also for loving

POTENTIAL

care for one another.”

The choir has been preparing for the performance since September, rehearsing portions of the challenging work week by week. Bower said the piece pushes singers vocally while also requiring them to learn German lyrics.

“This piece is crazy hard, and it’s also crazy high, like, the voices have to sing at the top of their ranges a lot,” he said.

One of the concert’s featured performers also has local roots. Carey, a tenor soloist, grew up in Rockville Centre and previously sang with Bower in the boys’ choir program before pursuing a professional opera career.

“He’s coming back to be our soloist,” Bower said. “It’s like a hometown boy that’s making it big, so that’s a very exciting thing.”

Bower said he hopes the concert provides an uplifting experience for the broader community at a time when people are searching for connection and positivity.

“It’s an opportunity for the entire Rockville Centre community, no matter what your religious beliefs are, your political beliefs, that we’re all one together,” he said. “This is an opportunity for us to welcome everyone into St. Agnes, to just have a beautiful evening, like the gift of music, something we can all share together, a positive evening.”

in Rockville Centre’s

Molloy University honors class of 2026

ing truth with charity in our hearts,” Wilson said in her speech. “After listening to my twin sister, I learned that education is an act of love in which we give ourselves wholly in pursuit of the truth. The desire for truth and love is written within our human nature, yet is satisfied only when we transcend the self.”

Wilson also received this year’s Hope Award, the university’s highest mission honor, recognizing devotion to the Catholic Dominican faith.

“Isabella and Grace represent the very best of Molloy University,” Michelle Piskulich, the university’s provost and vice president for academic affairs, said. “Together they embody the spirit of service and purpose that defines Molloy University and will undoubtedly inspire our graduates as they step forward into lives of impact and meaning.”

One of the ceremony’s highlights was a musical performance featuring Lentini and the Molloy CAP21 Theater graduates. The group performed Green Day’s “Good Riddance (Time of your Life),” with Lentini accompanying the graduates on acoustic guitar.

The ceremony’s commencement speaker, award-winning journalist Jo Napolitano, received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree in recognition of her work in education and social justice. Napolitano, a nationally recognized education journalist, has reported for The New York Times, The Chicago Tribune, Newsday and The 74, where she continues investigative reporting focused on equity and student opportunity.

“When I look at the world you are inheriting, I see so many opportunities for you to make positive change,” Napolitano told the graduates. “Please do not be disheartened or discouraged by what you are seeing right now, even if some of it breaks your heart. You are the change agents we need.”

The graduates were also encouraged to reflect on the personal experiences and defining moments that shaped their time at Molloy.

“I’m a transfer student, but I spent three years here and met so many new people,” Cadence Calderone, of Oceanside, said. “I’m sad to leave them, but I’m also ready to go. I feel prepared.”

Selin Kahyaoglu, of Franklin Square, also reflected on her experience at Molloy. “We’ve been working really hard,” she said. “We’ve all been in so many classes together struggling, so we’re really excited to finally accept that diploma and feel like we’re taking the next step.”

Molloy, based in Rockville Centre, was founded in 1955 by the Dominican Sisters of Amityville. The independent Catholic university has roughly 5,000 undergraduate and graduate students, and offers programs in nursing, allied health, business, education, social work, music therapy and other fields.

Local runner raises $13K for mental health cause

By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

For Rockville Centre resident Matthew Nolan, running the Boston Marathon was about more than crossing the finish line of one of the world’s most prestigious races. It also became an opportunity to support mental health awareness and advocacy.

Nolan, 42, completed his first Boston Marathon last month while representing the Mental Health Collaborative, raising nearly $13,000 for the organization along the way.

Although Nolan originally qualified for the 2020 Boston Marathon based on his 2019 race time, the COVID-19 pandemic prevented him from participating during the traditional Patriots’ Day race in April. Organizers later rescheduled the event for the fall, but Nolan opted not to run then, instead hoping to eventually experience Boston in its traditional spring setting.

Over the following years, marathon running took a back seat as Nolan and his wife, Wesley, welcomed their second child, Lucille. After returning to distance running and completing the New York City Marathon last fall, Nolan decided to pursue Boston once again.

Because he had missed the qualification window through time standards, Nolan applied to several charity teams before connecting with the Mental Health Collaborative, a Massachusettsbased nonprofit focused on mental health education and awareness.

“Matt was incredibly passionate about our mission from the very beginning,” Abbie Rosenberg, Founder & CEO of Mental Health Collaborative said. “His positivity, energy, and commitment to helping others were contagious. He truly embodied the values of resilience, community and well-being, and was an outstanding advocate for mental health awareness both on and off the marathon course.”

The connection carried additional significance because the organization recently partnered with South Side High School to host a Mental Health Essentials presentation for coaches,

physical education teachers and health staff. The workshop focused on recognizing signs of mental health challenges in student-athletes, reducing stigma surrounding mental illness and helping educators identify when students may need additional support.

Representing the Mental Health Collaborative held special meaning for Nolan, who said he was drawn to the organization’s mission of encouraging people to seek support and reducing stigma around mental health treatment.

“We’re at this place where it feels like we’re talking about mental health too much, and that it’s being used as a crutch or a weakness to not address real challenges and issues that we all face,”

Nolan said. “To me, it was just very poignant and very timely to get to represent an organization that just wants people to understand that we need to keep fighting the stigma.”

As part of his commitment to the team, Nolan originally set a fundraising goal of $10,000 but ultimately surpassed it, raising nearly $13,000.

Nolan completed the marathon in approximately 3 hours and 12 minutes, improving his time from the New York City Marathon by roughly 20 minutes. He trained throughout one of the harshest winters in recent memory, often completing long outdoor runs in freezing temperatures and snowy conditions while preparing for Boston’s challenging hills.

The marathon also became a family event, with relatives, friends, clients and colleagues cheering Nolan along the course. His son, Eli, celebrated his seventh birthday just days before the race, and family members traveled to Boston to support him.

“You feel like you’re doing this not only for yourself and your own goals and achievements and desires but also knowing that you have people that also want to see you succeed,” Nolan said.

Nolan is preparing for another marathon this August in upstate New York, where he hopes to achieve a faster qualifying time and earn entry into the 2027 Boston Marathon through standard race qualification.

FREE SUMMER CONCERTS

CHAPIN LAKESIDE THEATRE

IN EISENHOWER PARK

Sunday, June 7th

FUN LOVIN’ CRIMINALS AND BLESSID UNION OF SOULS

Thursday, June 11th - 6:00pm

Senior Afternoon Concert

featuring Amber Ferrari and Debra Toscano

Thursday, June 18th

Juneteenth Celebration – Earth Wind & Fire Tribute by D’votion, Gospel Choir and DRIFT featuring members of TAUK and MJT

Friday, June 19th - 3:00pm FIFA World Cup Watch Party USA vs. Australia

Monday, June 22nd - 6:00pm

Senior Afternoon Concert

The Chiclettes and Vinnie Medugno

Friday, June 26th

The Allmost Brothers BandAllman Brothers Tribute, Sons of Skynyrd –Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute

Saturday, June 27th

FREESTYLE MEETS SALSA –featuring BRENDA K. STARR, TITO PUENTE JR., TKA/K7, JOEY CRUZ, LA SONORA 495 AND FOREVER FREESTYLE BAND

Sunday, June 28th

REGGAE NIGHT WITH INNER CIRCLE, WAYNE WONDER AND IRIEspect

Thursday, July 2nd – 5:30pm

TD PRESENTS CELEBRATE AMERICA FIREWORKS & DRONE SHOW with Live Music By: Glenn Strange, Chicken Head and Let Freedom Rock

Friday, July 3rd

Fireworks Rain Date

Thursday, July 9th

Oldies Night with E’stefano DiSanto, Johnny Farina, Bobby Wilson, Vito Picone & The Elegants and The Brooklyn Bridge

Saturday, July 11th

Disco Unlimited

Thursday, July 16th

Harry Chapin Day – Corey Rieman and The Dilemma Band with Scarborough Fair - Simon & Garfunkel Tribute

Saturday, July 18th

Simply Stapleton –Chris Stapleton Tribute

Sunday, July 19th - 6:00pm

Last Exit – Pearl Jam Tribute

Foo For All – Foo Fighters Tribute

Thursday, July 23rd

LANIE GARDNER & BROOKE MORIBER

Friday, July 24th

ZBTB – Zac Brown Band Tribute and Guys with Guitars

Saturday, July 25th - 6:30pm

JEFFERSON STARSHIP, ATLANTA RHYTHM SECTION, FIREFALL AND PURE PRAIRIE LEAGUE

Sunday, July 26th - 4:00pm

Family Day On The Lake, featuring Beauty and The Beat, Princesses and wide-ranging entertainment for children and families

Thursday, July 30th

3 Decades Rewind

Rock Hits of the 60s, 70s and 80s

Friday, July 31st

Half Step – Grateful Dead Tribute

Saturday, August 1st

SALUTE TO VETERANS with Desert Highway – Eagles Tribute and American Bombshell

Sunday, August 2nd

Lovesong – 80s New Wave Tribute

Thursday, August 6th

THE OUTLAWS

Friday, August 7th

COLE SWINDELL

Saturday, August 8th

Neil Berg’s 100 Years of Broadway

Monday, August 10th - 6:00pm

Senior Afternoon Concert

Gerry Ferretti and the Mutant Kings and Jenna Esposito

Thursday, August 13th

Neil Diamond Tribute

Friday, August 14th

Swingtime Big Band

Saturday, August 15th

MIDTOWN MEN

ORIGINAL CAST OF JERSEY BOYS

Thursday, August 20th

Let’s Sing Taylor – Taylor Swift Tribute

Friday, August 21st

LOUD LUXURY with OPENING BY DJS CAFFEINE ACADEMY, DJ DENNIS THE MENACE AND JUST JOE

Sunday, August 23rd

WORLD RENOWNED PUERTO RICAN SALSA ORCHESTRA

Thursday, August 27th

Long Island’s American Idols featuring Constantine Maroulis, Kevin Covais and Robbie Rosen with Special Guests

Friday, August 28th

Dancing Dream – ABBA Tribute

Monday, August 31st

FLO RIDA

Tuesday, September 1st

ZZ TOP

Thursday, September 3rd

THE LORDS OF 52ND STREET

Friday, September 4th

LOS LOBOS

Saturday, September 5th

Streetfighter – Rolling Stones Tribute, Who’s Next – The Who Tribute

New trees sprout across village

Newly planted trees line neighborhoods throughout Rockville Centre as village officials announced that 72 trees were added May 15 through the

Program and the annual RVC Conservancy tree initiative, including

maple tree planted in front of the Recreation Center to help expand the community’s tree canopy and

STEPPING OUT

Nature, brick by brick

Wild wonders in LEGO form at Old Westbury Gardens

By Christie Leigh Babirad

Art, nature and imagination come together this summer at Old Westbury Gardens with the arrival of Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects Made with LEGO Bricks, an outdoor exhibition that transforms familiar scenes from the natural world into larger-than-life works of art.

Now on display through Sept. 7, the exhibit features 17 larger-than-life intricate sculptures crafted entirely from LEGO bricks, many inspired by the landscapes, wildlife and beauty found throughout the historic gardens. Blending creativity with environmental themes, the installation invites visitors of all ages to experience the grounds in a fresh and unexpected way.

For Maura Brush, president and CEO of Old Westbury Gardens, bringing the exhibition here has been especially rewarding after years of planning and anticipation.

“We’re really excited to be hosting this exhibit,” Brush says, explaining that whenever she and her team choose a temporary exhibit, they strive for the display to blend with the grounds — and this does exactly that.

“When you see the exhibit and you see the sculptures it really fits so beautifully within the landscape,” she continues. “Old Westbury Gardens is home to foxes, butterflies and hummingbirds, and to see these exaggerated, large-scale sculptures in the landscape, it feels like it fits pretty beautifully.”

All of the displays are tucked into natural places throughout the garden areas where visitors might see these creatures and flora naturally. Each includes is a sign that indicates how many bricks were used, how many hours it took the artist to make each one and facts about the creature or flora.

Angela and Martin Pavlovic attended the preview opening with their 5-year-old son Niko who was excited to see the hummingbird and gave rave reviews for the wheel barrel made completely out of LEGOs.

“I like the wheel barrel,” Niko enthused. “It’s a 10 out of 10.”

Anne Caminiti, who attended with her daughters Nina and Mia, noted their eagerness to see the exhibit as her eldest daughter loves LEGOs.

South Shore Symphony

“I’m excited to see this display in one of our favorite places and see how many LEGOs it took to make each one,” Caminiti says, adding that she appreciates how many great family programs are offered at Old Westbury Gardens.

Ashley Friel, spokesperson for Imagine, which manages the exhibit, explains that Sean Kenney, who has been involved with Imagine for over 10 years now, is an artist who likes to invoke a sense of whimsy and fun for the whole family.

• Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects open daily, except for Tuesdays, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., through Sept. 7

• 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• For more information and program/events schedule visit oldwestburygardens.org or call (516) 333-0048

“Nature Connects is a super inspiring show and really about how the beauty of nature is interconnected in the same way that LEGO bricks are,” Friel says.

She added that she is eager to hear visitors’ reactions to the sculptures and hopes the exhibit encourages guests to see the natural world through a new and more imaginative lens.

The fun does not stop with the sculptures. Throughout the Nature Connects’ duration, Old Westbury Gardens will host a series of LEGOthemed events and programs designed to inspire creativity and bring together visitors of all ages.

Laura Erwin, education manager, explained that the exhibit will be complemented by a variety of special events, including Family Nights and the Seasonal Sprouts program, held on select Wednesdays from July 1 through Sept. 2. Created for children ages 4 through 10, Seasonal Sprouts combines exploration and creativity through guided outdoor tours of the exhibit followed by hands-on activity in a LEGO free-play space.

“There are a lot of fun events coming up and the Family Nights are going to be big,” Erwin says.

Another preview visitor, Claudine Krause, stopped by with her son Tatum, who she said loves LEGOs and goes to all the master LEGO events and has been following Sean Kenney’s work.

“There’s a lot you can learn through LEGOs and they have a lot of great events for children here,” Krause says.

Adults can also join in the creativity when Bricks and Brews returns on Aug. 6, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

The adults-only evening pairs art and socializing, beginning with a guided tour of the exhibition and continuing at the Barn at Orchard Hill, where guests will build with official LEGO Botanical Daisies kits while enjoying refreshments in a relaxed setting.

The beloved orchestra, under direction of Adam Glaser, returns to St. Agnes Cathedral for its annual spring concert, joined by St. Agnes combined choirs, directed by Michael Bower. The inspiring program showcases beloved masterworks, including Mozart’s Regina Coeli, and Bach’s Mass in B Minor: Dona Nobis and Beethoven’s Christ on the Mount of Olives: Hallelujah.The evening culminates with Beethoven’s monumental Symphony No. 9, the groundbreaking 1824 masterpiece that transformed symphonic music by introducing a chorus in its final movement and giving voice to Friedrich Schiller’s enduring “Ode to Joy,” a celebration of unity and shared humanity. More than 65 musicians and approximately 75 vocalists join acclaimed soloists soprano Risa Renae Harman, mezzosoprano Elizabeth Sarian, tenor Eric Finbarr Carey, and baritone Scott Lefurgy. Admission is free, with donations requested.

Friday, May 29, 7:30 pm. 29 Quealy Place, Rockville Centre. Visit sssymphony.org for more.

The blues-rock guitarist-singersongwriter has built a reputation as one of the most exciting live performers of his generation. Blending electric blues, rock, soul, R&B, and hints of hip-hop, Clark’s sound is both rooted in tradition and boldly modern. His guitar tone often recalls legends like Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan, but his songwriting, socially aware lyrics, and willingness to experiment make him stand out as a contemporary artist. On stage, he is known for extended solos, dynamic arrangements, and emotionally charged vocals that move from soft falsetto to gritty growls, making every concert feel unforgettable. Anyone who has listened to a Gary Clark Jr. album or watched the four-time Grammy Award winner perform live knows that he’s a gifted multiinstrumentalist, songwriter and performer.

Wednesday, June 3, 8 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

‘Something Rotten! The Musical’

See the comedy musical, set in the 1590s, which follows two playwright brothers competing with William Shakespeare as they attempt to create the world’s first musical. From tap dancing eggs to beautiful love stores, this musical really has it all. Songs include “A Musical!,” “It’s Hard to Be the Bard,” and “Welcome to the Renaissance.” The cast is comprised of New York City professionals, including David Hibbard, who was in the original Broadway production, with CAP21 alumni and current students. Performances are scheduled throughout the fourday run.

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

• Time: Varied times, through May 31

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

MAY

30

Family Night: Backyard Bugs

Old Westbury Gardens welcomes families to discover the fascinating world of bugs during this special after-hours experience. Explore Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects exhibit, a handson bug information station, the LEGO free-play area, along with a live bug show. Participants will meet incredible insects up close and learn what makes them so amazing, plus the bug station for further exploration and discovery. Registration required. $34, $24 children (20% member discount).

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: 5-8 p.m.

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

Sprout and Bloom

Families can dig in and get their hands dirty at Long Island Children’s Museum. The museum welcomes all to celebrating all the beautiful May flowers by planting your own at the drop-in program. Take it home and watch it grow!. For ages 3+.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: Noon-2 p.m.

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

JUN

1

David Lee Roth

JUN

7

Wills and trusts workshop

Attorney Kathleen Rose discusses wills, trusts, probate and related

(Washington Street between North Village Avenue and North Centre Avenue), Rockville Centre

• Time: 9:30 a.m.

• Contact: Susana at smarchiano@rvcny.us

Whatever Floats Your Boat

Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes families to celebrate the opening of the H2Oh! Water Play exhibit by creating a floating boat. Put your boat to the test in a water tub to see if it sinks or floats at the dropin program. For ages 3+.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: Noon-2 p.m.

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

Dueling Pianos

Get ready to jump! Diamond Dave is back! The iconic, high-flying frontman of Van Halen is bringing his legendary swagger and a massive arsenal of rock anthems to the Paramount stage. Fans can expect a high-octane night packed with timeless hits like “Jump,” “Panama,” and “Runnin’ with the Devil.” This tour marks a massive return for the rock legend, who officially ended a five-year hiatus from the stage last May with a triumphant, headlinemaking debut at the M3 Rock Festival. Far from a stripped-down nostalgic act, Roth is backing up his signature showmanship with a powerhouse new eight-piece band to perfectly replicates those massive, classic Van Halen harmonies. Between the fresh musical muscle and Roth’s undiminished, charismatic stage presence, this promises to be an unforgettable night of nostalgia and high-energy rock ‘n’ roll. If you’re looking for a night of pure, unadulterated arena-rock energy right in our own backyard, this is the ticket of the season.

planning topics at Rockville Centre Public Library. Rose, an attorney and social worker with Feldman, Kramer and Monaco, also provides guidance on Medicaid planning, preparing for the future and avoiding caregiver stress. Attendees are encouraged to bring questions for discussion.

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

• Time: 6:30 p.m.

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

Village meeting

The Village of Rockville Centre Board of Trustees holds their next meeting.

• Where: Village Hall, 1 College Place

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: RVCNY.gov

JUN

2

performs four-part a cappella harmony in the barbershop style, entertaining audiences at libraries, assisted living facilities, hospitals, and local events. All are welcome to visit one of their weekly rehearsals. Come listen, meet the chorus, and — if you’d liken— join in and sing. No musical experience is necessary, just a love of singing and a desire to have fun making music together.

• Where: Faith Lutheran Church, 231 Jackson Ave, Syosset

• Time: Tuesdays, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

• Contact: Call: Rich, (516) 5214779, or Dennis, (516) 680-8036, or visit longislandharmonizers. org

JUN

4

Board of Education meets The BOE public work meeting is open to the public and provides an opportunity to learn about district matters and upcoming initiatives. All are welcome.

• Where: 140 Shepherd St., Rockville Centre

• Time: 7 p.m.

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

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

JUN

Check out “Dueling Pianos” with Savage Pianos at James & Main. This interactive musical event features live dueling piano entertainment, hosted in partnership with the Rockville Centre Breast Cancer Coalition. $125 includes cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, a pasta station and full entertainment.

• Where: 1 Main St., East Rockaway

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: RvcBcc.org/Events

Garden tour

• Contact: (516) 255-8947

American Revolution documentary

The third installment of The American Revolution by Ken Burns, titled “The Times that Try Men’s Souls,” is screened at Rockville Centre Public Library. The show spans from July 1776 to January 1777. The 114-minute episode follows George Washington as his forces are driven from New York by British General William Howe before regrouping in New Jersey and launching a pivotal counterattack at Trenton.

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

• Time: 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

• Contact: 516-766-6257

JUN

6

5 Harmonize with Long Island Harmonizers Love to sing? So do the Long Island Harmonizers. The chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society is a chorus of more than 20 singers, now welcoming new members. The ensemble

Vintage car and fire truck show

The village hosts a vintage car and fire truck show in Parking Field 2. Guest-hosted by the village’s Fire Department, it showcases classic vehicles. Car owners are invited to register in advance by email. A rain date is scheduled for June 7.

• Where: Parking Field 2

JUN

10

Bethany House

RVC holds a garden tour, which offers a self-guided look at local private gardens in support of community programs. The tour invites residents to explore a variety of curated outdoor spaces while supporting Bethany House of Nassau County, which provides assistance to women and children in need. Proceeds benefit the organization’s services and outreach efforts.

• Where: 600 N. Long Beach Road, Rockville Centre

• Time: 10 a.m.

• Contact: Bhny.org/Events/6-10Rvc-Garden-Tour/

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.

Pride Month shines a spotlight on community and inclusion

By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN

agriffin@liherald.com

Every June, Pride Month brings communities together to celebrate LGBTQ+ identity, history and advocacy through parades, educational events, performances and community gatherings. In Rockville Centre and across Long Island, the month also serves as an opportunity to promote visibility, inclusion and support for LGBTQ+ residents.

Looking

back on Pride Month’s roots

to Stonewall

The origins of Pride Month date back to the 1969 Stonewall uprising in New York City. In the early morning hours of June 28, police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in Greenwich Village. At the time, raids targeting LGBTQ+ gathering places were common, but this encounter sparked resistance from patrons and neighborhood residents, leading to several days of protests in the surrounding streets. The demonstrations became a defining moment in the LGBTQ+ rights movement in the United States. In the months that followed, advocacy groups formed across the country, and on the first anniversary of Stonewall, activists organized the Christopher Street Liberation Day March in New York City, considered the nation’s first Pride march.

Pride Month highlights celebration, awareness and support

Although Pride Month is often associated with parades and celebrations, it also highlights the history of LGBTQ+ advocacy and the ongoing push for equality, visibility and acceptance. Advocacy efforts over the years have contributed to expanded legal protections, increased representation in media and public life, workplace protections and the legalization of same-sex marriage in the United States in 2015. Pride Month also serves as a time to recognize the challenges LGBTQ+ individuals have faced and the continued efforts toward inclusion and equal treatment. Throughout June, schools, libraries, businesses and local organizations frequently host educational programs, performances, panel discussions and community events to raise awareness.

RVC Pride continues expanding local events and outreach

RVC Pride was established in 2022 to promote LGBTQ+ visibility, rights and acceptance in Rockville Centre. The organization works to create a safe and inclusive environment through events, outreach and community engagement aimed at supporting LGBTQ+ residents and allies. Throughout Pride Month, the group organizes events such as its annual Pride Caravan through Rockville Centre, community gatherings, educational programs and partnerships with local businesses and organizations. RVC Pride also participates in outreach initiatives designed to encourage understanding, inclusion and support across the community. The organization works year-round to connect residents with resources and supportive spaces.

Wrestling star delivers in kickboxing debut

DiBenedetto a technical knockout victory in his debut.

That confidence was already visible before the fight even started.

“When I’m staring at him, it’s not like I think I’m going to beat him,” DiBenedetto said. “It’s, I know I’m going to beat this kid. I know 100 percent that he’s not training more than me. He’s not putting in more work than me. He’s not sweating more than me. And I know that there’s no way that he could beat me.”

That mentality was shaped through years of training and personal tragedy. When he was 7 years old, DiBenedetto lost his father, Sergio, to colon cancer in 2017 after a long illness that deeply affected the family.

“They had to watch their dad pass away over 10 months,” his mother, Lauren, said. “He got sick in November and died in July. They watched him lose weight, not be able to eat, not being able to walk or speak.”

For DiBenedetto, the loss disrupted everything. He struggled emotionally and briefly pulled away from training before eventually returning to the gym and finding stability in routine.

“When that happened, I kind of just shut down,” he said of his father’s death. “I didn’t really want to come here. I always complained about coming. But my mom forced me every time.”

Over time, the gym became more than a place to train.

“It was a distraction,” DiBenedetto

LEGAL NOTICE

said. “It was one of the main things that helped me at the time, because it was pretty much the only thing I had outside of my house.”

His mother said maintaining that structure became critical after his father died.

“Sergio was a big football player and football coach,” she said. “(Tiger Schul-

Public Notices

Notice of Public Hearing Village of Rockville Centre Nassau County, New York

Meeting Date: June 1st, 2026

Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 330 Rockville Centre Village Code NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Exterior Design Review Board of the Village of Rockville Centre will have a Public Hearing at the Eugene J. Murray Village Hall, 1 College Place, Rockville Centre

LEGAL NOTICE

June 1st, 2026 at 7:00

PM Case No. 05-2026

Orchard Land Group LLC

28 Jefferson Avenue Rockville Centre, NY 11570

Description: New single-family dwelling.

Premises known as:

47 Pine Street Case No. 06-2026

Michael Fagan

306 DeMott Avenue

Rockville Centre, NY 11570

Description: Additions and alterations to a singlefamily dwelling.

Premises known as: 306 DeMott Avenue

The Exterior Design Review Board OF THE VILLAGE OF ROCKVILLE CENTRE

Eugene Murray Village Hall, Rockville Centre, New York

George Bella, Chairperson of the consultants to The Exterior Design Review Board

Thomas Domanico, Secretary to The Consultants Information and records for Exterior Design Review cases are available the Office of the Secretary, 110 Maple Avenue, RVC 160449

LEGAL NOTICE

Public Notice to Bidders

Sealed Bids will be received by the Purchasing Department of the Village of Rockville Centre, One College Place, Room

204, Rockville Centre, New York 11570 for the matter stated below until 11:00 am prevailing time on JUNE 25, 2026 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud. The contract will be awarded as soon thereafter as practicable for: MISCELLANEOUS MATERIALS 2026

Bid No. 2606E1(1192)

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 June 11, 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 160444

PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…

To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF FORMATION of CJ MARTINO

CONSULTING LLC. Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on April 29, 2026 Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to 14 May Court Rockville Centre, NY 11570. Purpose: any lawful act. 160397

and earned the Mike Mazzella South Side Outstanding Wrestler Award.

“I’m more of like a forward moving, high pressure wrestler,” DiBenedetto said. “Strong on top more. Frank holds you down and tires you out.”

South Side wrestling coach Mike Robinson said DiBenedetto’s work ethic and passion for combat sports separate him from many athletes his age.

“It’s refreshing to see an athlete who truly enjoys combat sports, which is becoming rare these days,” Robinson said. “I’m excited to see him excel on the mat next season. Frank is an exceptional kid. He’s tough and has a strong work ethic.”

That wrestling background translated naturally into kickboxing, particularly in the clinch, where DiBenedetto controlled Rodriguez.

“His base is solid,” George said. “No one can push him back. Very easily, he can take people down. His strength is at a very high level.”

George has worked with DiBenedetto since he was 7 and said his confidence and discipline have grown over time.

mann’s owner and coach, Jobin George) was like, ‘Don’t let him quit, because once he quits, we’re going to get out of that routine.’”

That discipline eventually helped DiBenedetto become one of Nassau County’s top high school wrestlers at 175 pounds. Standing 5-foot-8 and competing at both 175 and 190 pounds, he completed a standout sophomore season this winter, his second on South Side’s varsity team.

His season was highlighted by a fourth-place finish at the Nassau County Division I Section 8 tournament at Hofstra, which earned him All-County honors for the second consecutive year after first earning the distinction as a freshman in 2025.

DiBenedetto also captured the Nassau Division I Qualifier title at Jericho High School and won the Frank Giampaolo Cyclone Tournament at South Side, where he blanked Chaminade’s Chris Ferranti in the 175-pound final

“(He’s the) hardest worker in the room,” George said. “He goes 125 percent. He pours his heart out into the class.”

Despite the dominant victory, DiBenedetto said the result felt more validating than emotional.

“It’s a mix of relief and confirmation that all the work you put in, all the time and things you give up to train, that all made up for it,” he said.

Outside of wrestling and kickboxing, DiBenedetto plans to work this summer as a lifeguard in Atlantic Beach while continuing to train and prepare for another fight. He is also expected to earn his black belt in the coming weeks.

For DiBenedetto, the place that helped him through childhood still feels like home.

“They’ve just become such a monumental part of my life that there’s nothing that could replace it,” he said of Tiger Schulmann’s. “I’ve known them for 11 years out of my 16 years. They’re basically family to me.”

DRIVERS WANTED

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE Full Time/Part Time

Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multi-task, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines.

Salary Range is $17 per hour to $20 per hour.

For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: circulationassociate@liherald.com

COMPANION AVAILABLE

Responsible & Experienced With Luxury Car To Assist With Doctor Appointments, Errands, Shopping, Etc. or Just Going Out For An Enjoyable Day! Call 646-708-2160

Full Time and Part Time Positions Available! Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome! $22 - $27/ Hour Bell Auto School 516-365-5778

Email: info@bellautoschool.com

EDITOR/REPORTER

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

To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT

Inside Sales

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

HomesHERALD

Timeless Charm

Fmaintained

showcases timeless architectural character, including high ceilings and hardwood floors throughout, paired with the spacious interior today’s buyers desire. Offering approximately 2,674 square feet of interior living space, the residence features five generously sized bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, and an office and den, providing exceptional comfort for everyday

appeal, this is a rare opportunity to own a truly special home in a premier village location.

Christine Ferramosca Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Mobile: 516-835-8468 Office: 516-669-3700

Christine.Ferramosca@elliman.com Douglas Elliman Real Estate. 304 Merrick Road Rockville Centre, NY 11571

Rent Your

Apartment

through the Herald and PrimeTime Classified section. Call us for our great *specials. 516-5694000, press 5 for Classified Dept. *(private party only)

Do I need to file a plan just to build a stone wall? Part 2.

Q.. I planned and started building a stack stone wall in my front yard, but I was stopped by a building inspector. He told me the wall was structural, and needed a professional plan to be approved before I could do the rest of the work. It’s just a landscape wall instead of a fence or hedges at my front sidewalk, so why should it matter? A lot of my neighbors have them, and he told me to file a complaint, and he would check the others out, but I don’t want to tell on my neighbors. What do you suggest?

A. Continuing my answer from the last column, which addressed the technical issues, the approval side is often more complicated, especially when we attach the stigma of living among neighbors in this condition we refer to as “civilization.”

You wondered why neighbors have gotten away with building their walls and fences without permits, and yet you are being called out for your venture into building without approvals they didn’t seem to need. You may also wonder why the inspector suggested you file a complaint so that there is cause to look into violations created by your neighbors the same kind of violation you feel singled out for. We, collectively, wonder why this happens. It is a regular occurrence to be taken to a potential customer’s door and pointed out violations others have, completely visible to all, which are either prohibited or require building permits and zoning variances. Things like extra-tall fences, pools, sheds, decks and porches extended into front yards even garages and “temporary” carports. I know that once I have to explain the rules and regulations, it isn’t convincing, and I may be dismissed, mainly because the neighbors are “getting away with it, so why should I have to spend all this money and time when they didn’t have to?”

or

You, like most, believe that if an inspector sees a violation, they will act. In many incorporated villages, that is the case. In the larger jurisdictions, however, that isn’t always the case. You are requested to file a complaint. People I have spoken to won’t do that, because that pits neighbor against neighbor, even if the authorities tell you that your complaint is confidential. The violator immediately becomes suspicious, and when I get called to meet and try to clear a violation, the first part of the conversation is spent by the owner pointing at the suspected neighbor’s property, and vindictive language follows.

I never really had a name for it until recently, when the phrase “The system is rigged” prevailed. Now I understand, as you should, too, that the way violations are handled actually creates stress among neighbors and goes against public safety, as more and more of us want to do uncertified, unsafe construction without approvals. Financially, those municipalities that double their fees for already-built work benefit from the violations they encourage. If public safety is most important, it’s overshadowed by administration. Good luck!

2026 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the

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opinions Celebrating traditions in Rockville Centre

summer has a way of bringing Rockville Centre to life. From longstanding traditions to evenings we spend together on the Village Green, the months ahead will be filled with the moments that make our community special.

This week, we came together for a Memorial Day ceremony, even though the rain prevented us from holding our annual parade. Memorial Day reminds us of the sacrifices made to preserve our freedoms, and it was heartening to see our community once again gather in remembrance.

In the weeks and months ahead, our calendar will be crowded with cherished events that bring neighbors, families and friends together. One of the highlights of the season will be the return of the Vintage Car and Fire Truck Show on June 6, from 9:30 a.m. to noon at Parking Field 2. The annual show offers residents of all ages the opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the craftsmanship and history behind these

remarkable vehicles. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and enjoyable morning, it’s an event not to be missed.

We’re also excited about the return of Music on the Green, a favorite summer tradition of live performances. This year’s lineup includes Those Damn Neighbors, on June 25; the Basement, on July 30; and another performance, to be announced, on Aug. 27. I encourage everyone to bring a blanket or chair, gather with friends and enjoy these special nights under the summer sky.

The village continues to be defined by its sense of community and civic pride.

Another cornerstone of the season is our annual Fireworks Celebration and Concert.

This year’s event will take place on July 11 at Pette and Barasch fields. It will feature a performance by the South Shore Symphony, followed by the renowned Grucci fireworks display, synchronized to music. It is a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together in celebration, and we look forward to another memorable night.

As we enjoy these traditions, we are also continuing to make meaningful improvements to village services. One is the transition from the Flowbird park-

Aing app to ParkMobile, expected to be completed by June 30. This change will give residents and visitors a more seamless and user-friendly parking experience while maintaining all existing meters and infrastructure. During the transition, both apps will operate concurrently to ensure continuity. ParkMobile’s expanded platform, improved reliability and ease of use will enhance the overall experience for everyone who lives in or visits our village.

Our commitment to the future of Rockville Centre is also reflected in our ongoing focus on sustainability. Some 72 new trees were recently planted throughout the village as part of both the 2025 Road Program and the Rockville Centre Conservancy’s annual Tree Program. While these initiatives serve different purposes, together they expand our tree canopy, beautify our neighborhoods and strengthen our environment for generations to come. We’re especially grateful to the conservancy for its continued partnership, including the generous donation of a maple tree planted in front of the Recreation Center. That same spirit of partnership was evident at a recent village board meet-

ing, at which the Chamber of Commerce presented a $10,000 contribution to the Beautification Committee. This generous support will help continue the important work of enhancing our shared spaces and maintaining the village’s character and charm. We’re thankful for the chamber’s ongoing commitment to our community.

I also congratulate the chiefs and elected officers of the Rockville Centre Fire Department following their recent swearing-in ceremony. We commend Chief of Department Tony Rugolo, 1st Assistant Chief Patrick Healey and 2nd Assistant Chief Brian O’Toole, along with 4th Battalion delegate and Ex-Chief Mark Murray. Their dedication, leadership and service are vital to the safety and well-being of our residents, and we wish them a safe and successful year ahead.

As summer begins, Rockville Centre continues to be defined by its strong sense of community, civic pride and shared purpose. Whether gathering for a concert, enjoying a local event or working together to improve our village, these are the moments that bring us closer and make Rockville Centre such a special place to call home.

I look forward to seeing you throughout the season.

Francis X. Murray is the mayor of Rockville Centre.

Let’s take our daughters outside

sk a girl in Elmont, Freeport or Hempstead what she did last weekend, and chances are her answer would sound a lot like that of girls across Long Island. She spent time scrolling on her phone. Maybe on social media. Maybe texting friends. Maybe watching a show. What she likely wasn’t doing was exploring the outdoors, or simply lying in the grass and watching the sky. June is National Great Outdoors Month, and as CEO of Girl Scouts of Nassau County, I want to say something plainly: Girls need to spend more time outside, unplugged and reconnecting with the world around them.

The good news is we already have the solution, one that has been working for more than a century. According to the Outdoor Foundation, participation in outdoor recreation among girls ages 13 to 17 has fallen to roughly 50 percent. Research published in the Journal of American College Health confirms that screen time is a significant predictor of

higher anxiety, depression and stress in young people, while time spent outdoors predicts lower rates of stress and depression. Nature is good for girls, and the absence of it is doing harm.

TWhat makes this urgent is that girls are disproportionately affected. Studies show that girls spend less time outdoors than boys, and that the drop-off accelerates sharply in early adolescence — the years when confidence, identity and resilience are being forged. At a time when we’re already grappling with a youth mental health crisis, this is a trend we can’t afford to ignore. Outdoor experiences don’t just reduce anxiety. They actively build the skills girls need to lead. The Girl Scout Research Institute has found that girls who regularly spend time outdoors are better problem solvers, more likely to seek out challenges and stronger environmental stewards. They develop leadership skills, forge deeper friendships and report greater happiness overall.

them become leaders.

Nassau County Communities are home to thousands of girls who deserve every opportunity to experience the outdoors. Many of them face real barriers, including fewer green spaces, limited transportation and tighter family budgets. The idea of sending a daughter to sleep-away camp in the Hamptons can feel like a luxury that belongs to someone else’s life.

here they can discover what they’re made of without the Wi-Fi.

Every girl, regardless of Zip code, family income or whether she has ever seen a tent stake, deserves the chance to discover what she’s made of when the Wi-Fi is gone and there are stars overhead.

Across acres of woods, trails and private beachfront, girls spend summers canoeing, swimming, building fires, sleeping under the stars, and doing something that is increasingly rare in young people’s lives: being fully, completely present.

thought she was “not outdoorsy” finds herself paddling a canoe across open water and realizing she loves it. These are moments that shape who a girl believes she can be, and that belief follows her home.

Every girl should have the chance to get outside in a meaningful, supported, joyful way. Not just girls whose families can easily absorb the cost of summer camp. Not just girls who already love hiking or have spent weekends on trails. Every girl, including the one in Elmont who has never left Nassau County, the one in Hempstead who thinks camping sounds miserable, the one in Valley Stream who just needs someone to hand her a canoe paddle and say, “You’ve got this.”

Heading into summer, I’m asking Long Island families, school leaders, community organizations and businesses to join us in making the outdoors accessible to every girl in Nassau County. Because the research is clear, the need is urgent and the girls are ready.

For girls from lower-income communities, access to the outdoors is even more transformative. Research shows that they are significantly more likely to credit outdoor experiences with helping

The girls I see during the school year undergo a transformation at camp. They become — dare I say — wild and free. They are independent, curious and brave. The girl who was nervous about sleeping away from home discovers she can navigate a trail. The girl who

The girl who builds a fire, sleeps in a tent and wakes up to birdsong instead of notifications isn’t just having a fun summer adventure. She’s becoming a leader for Long Island, for our communities, for the future. Those leaders start here.

Rande Bynum is CEO of Girl Scouts of Nassau County.

Brian KacharaBa

aHERALD

Water safety starts with vigilance

s summer approaches on Long Island, our communities eagerly embrace the joys of swimming, boating and waterfront leisure. From backyard pools to the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, aquatic activities are woven into our seasonal traditions.

With those pleasures, however, comes a paramount responsibility: ensuring water safety for all.

New York ranks fourth in the nation in drowning deaths. The state now requires all operators of motorized vessels, regardless of age, to possess a valid boating safety certificate. The requirement, established as part of Brianna’s Law — named in memory of 11-year-old Brianna Lieneck, who lost her life in a 2005 boating accident in the Great South Bay — is intended to make waterways safer.

Boaters can enroll in approved safety courses available in person and online. The BoatUS Foundation offers a free, state-approved online course, and the New York State Parks Adventure License program encourages boaters to add an anchor icon to their driver’s license to indicate completion of the course.

Water safety extends well beyond boats, to backyard and public swimming pools and Long Island’s many miles of beaches. Drowning remains a leading cause of accidental death

letters

Where is Hempstead’s affordable-housing plan?

To the Editor:

among children.

Suffolk County reported 24 drownings in 2024, a 60 percent increase over the prior year, based on statistics from Stony Brook University. Experts noted what they called an “alarming shift,” with 66 percent of drownings happening in backyard pools rather than open water, driven largely by a post-pandemic surge in pool installations. Nationwide, drowning remains a leading cause of unintentional-injury deaths among children ages 1 to 4.

To reduce the risks:

■ Always supervise children closely when they are in or near water. Avoid distractions, even when lifeguards are present.

■ Install fences with self-latching gates around pools to prevent unsupervised access. State law requires fences to be at least 4 feet high and to fully enclose pools.

■ Teach children to swim, learn yourself if you never have, and understand basic water safety rules.

■ Ensure that supervising adults are trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation so they can respond effectively in emergencies.

■ State law requires children under 12 to wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved lifejackets on boats smaller than 21 feet.

Re Joseph Scianablo’s op-ed, “We can’t solve a housing crisis with hypocrisy or politics,” in the May 14-20 issue: Scianablo, the Democratic candidate for Hempstead town supervisor, clearly stated the issues involved in dealing with the housing crisis. He also delineated steps that need to be taken to solve the problem.

One must wonder, what has the town’s leadership, under Supervisor John Ferretti, been doing about this housing crisis? No cogent plan has been followed to deal with the shortage of housing that’s affordable for young families or seniors wanting to downsize. A predictable pattern has developed, which we have witnessed with the Woodmere Country Club and Inwood/North Hempstead projects: A project is proposed by developers, there is an outcry from community residents who have reasonable concerns, and then there is expensive litigation, paid for with taxpayers’ hard-earned dollars.

Ferretti and the Town Board should have had a forward-looking housing plan in place. As proposed by candidate Scianablo, stakeholders

Lifejackets accessible to all passengers are essential on any vessel.

■ At public pools and beaches, pay attention to lifeguards, who are trained to identify hazards such as rip currents — fast-moving channels of water that can quickly pull swimmers away from shore.

■ Ask lifeguards about dangerous conditions, and swim only in designated areas. If caught in a rip current, stay calm and swim parallel to shore until free of the current.

Another major danger is after-hours swimming. When lifeguards are off duty, swimmers who are inexperienced, overconfident or impaired are left unmonitored, and that is when many drownings occur.

Early-season swimmers should also remember that ocean water remains dangerously cold well into late spring. Cold water quickly drains energy and increases the risk of distress, even for strong swimmers.

Water safety is everyone’s responsibility. Whether you’re watching children at a pool, enjoying a day at the beach or heading out on a boat, a few simple precautions can mean the difference between a close call and a tragedy. Long Island’s waters are meant to be enjoyed, but only if we treat them with the respect they demand.

including developers, union workers and residents must be engaged in planning housing projects for the needs of each unique community.

Instead of blaming Albany, our town

to deal with the housing crisis.

opinions

Protecting our suburbs from overdevelopment

Long Island’s suburbs weren’t created by accident. They were built to offer families a place to grow, to feel safe, and to put down roots in communities that reflect shared values and a commitment to quality of life. In the Town of Hempstead, we take that responsibility seriously.

Right now, however, that way of life is being challenged from two directions: Albany’s push to override local zoning authority, and unchecked overdevelopment that threatens the character of our neighborhoods. I want to be clear that my administration is not opposed to growth. We understand the need for more housing, including more affordable housing, to ensure that the next generation can stay on Long Island. But growth must be thoughtful, balanced and locally driven. It can never be dictated by Albany bureaucrats who neither live in nor understand our communities.

Governor Kathy Hochul’s latest plan to circumvent local zoning regulations is a direct threat to suburban Long

Island. It is a one-size-fits-all mandate that ignores the unique needs, infrastructure and character of towns like Hempstead. Local zoning exists for a reason. It allows communities to plan responsibly to ensure that roads, schools, public safety services and utilities can support new development. Stripping that authority away undermines decades of careful planning and silences the voices of the very residents these policies impact.

albany’s plan to curcumvent local zoning is a direct threat to suburban L.I.

Decisions about our neighborhoods should be made by the people who live here and the officials they elect, not by distant policymakers focused on solving problems specific to New York City. Long Island is not Manhattan, and it should not be treated as such.

At the same time, we have taken decisive action at the local level to protect the integrity of our neighborhoods. In Levittown, one of the most iconic suburban communities in America, we recently passed a zoning reform to address the rise of so-called McMansions. Often built by developers looking to maximize profit, these oversized homes, which dwarf neighboring properties and fundamentally alter the character of entire neighborhoods, have been replacing

Letters

Voters deserve to hear more from the candidates on housing

To the Editor:

Mr. Scianablo is half right. Politics is the only means we have to reconcile civil issues. What is required is the sort of politics Mr. Scianablo describes, where leadership seeks to “rise above the noise” and “tell the truth” to promote “honest conversations” and form “partnerships” that will work toward “thoughtful, community-driven planning.” That would mean a constructive confrontation with some hard words.

Nassau County’s leaders must acknowledge the truth that the housing issue can’t be “solved” at the county level, but progress can be

facilitated. Candidates for leadership must dismiss the noise to center the honest conversations on those few factors and limited partnerships within their purview and jurisdiction. This means devising a thoughtful plan for changes in zoning to encourage density at sites that provide transportation and public services — which will encourage builders and bankers to construct affordable units that make Nassau attractive to buyers, preferably families with children.

There are hard words here, but voters deserve to hear from each candidate some opening position from which they will begin their honest conversation, and what their vision is for a Nassau community plan to ameliorate its portion of the “crisis.”

BRIAN KELLY Rockville Centre

modest, affordable houses. Levittown was built as a symbol of opportunity. After World War II, it provided affordable homes for returning veterans and their families. It was a place where the American Dream was within reach and where legacy mattered. We listened when residents came forward, voicing concerns about privacy, overcrowding, infrastructure strain and the loss of neighborhood character.

After extensive public hearings and community input, the Town Board unanimously voted to reduce the allowable building area on residential lots to align it with the majority of residential zoning restrictions in the Town of Hempstead. This strikes a balance between allowing homeowners to improve and modernize their properties and preventing overdevelopment that erodes the very charm that makes these neighborhoods special. When modest homes are replaced with million-dollar structures, we aren’t expanding opportunity. Rather, we are pricing families out and changing the fabric of our neighborhoods in ways that cannot be undone.

These two issues — Albany’s overreach and local overdevelopment — are connected by the need to protect our suburbs from decisions that prioritize

volume over value and expediency over community.

We also cannot ignore the broader context. As Albany struggles to pass a budget, we see proposals that include record spending increases, bailouts that disproportionately benefit New York City, and little meaningful relief for Long Island taxpayers. At a time when families are already feeling the pressure of rising costs, this approach is simply unsustainable.

I am proud to stand with many of Long Island’s leaders to say to Albany that enough is enough. We need a state government that respects local control, exercises fiscal responsibility and recognizes that Long Island deserves its fair share and should not be left as an afterthought in a city-centric agenda.

Protecting the suburbs doesn’t mean resisting all change. It means guiding change in a way that preserves what works while addressing what doesn’t. It means building housing that is attainable, not excessive. It means empowering local communities, not overriding them.

The Town of Hempstead will continue to stand firm on these crucial matters. We will defend our neighborhoods, uphold local decision-making and ensure that our suburbs remain places where families can thrive today and for generations to come.

John Ferretti is the Town of Hempstead supervisor.

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