Rockville Centre Herald 07-09-2026

HERALD ROCKVILLE CENTRE

Red Storm ends run with title

Team captures first state cup with dominant win over E. Islip

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

The final chapter has arrived for one of Rockville Centre’s most accomplished youth soccer programs.

The Rockville Centre Red Storm Under-18 girls’ team closed out a remarkable run together with its first New York State Cup championship, capping years of success built on continuity, chemistry and sustained excellence across both club and high school competition.

That final moment of glory came May 30, when the Red Storm defeated East Islip 10-1 in the Girls Under18/19 New York State Cup championship game at the Blue Sky Sports Complex in Middletown. The victory earned Rockville Centre the Barbara Rodriguez Cup, the trophy awarded to the State Cup champion in that division. After advancing with a 7-0 semifinal victory over Brooklyn United, the championship performance served as the culmination of a dominant stretch for a group CoNTINUEd oN pagE 11

School board reorganizes, re-elects Barry as president

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

The Rockville Centre Board of Education officially began the 2026-27 school year at its annual reorganizational meeting and public work session on July 1, re-electing Kelly Barry as board president in a close vote among the district’s five trustees.

The 15-minute meeting marked the beginning of the new school year, following a 2025-26 budget cycle marked by extended financial debate over a $141.3 million spending plan that stayed below the state tax cap but included staff cuts and

program reductions. The process drew sustained public concern over potential classroom impacts and transparency, even as district officials maintained that the budget preserved core programs while addressing structural financial constraints.

Barry was nominated for board president by trustee Donna Downing, while newly elected Trustee Christa Dorrego nominated Erica Messier for the position. Barry was elected by a 3-2 vote after casting a vote for herself, with Downing and another new trustee, Mary Beth Joyce, also voting for her. Dorrego and Messier voted for Messier.

Barry nominated Downing for vice president, while Messier nominated Dorrego. Downing was elected by a 3-1 vote, with support from Barry, Downing and Joyce. Messier cast the lone vote for Dorrego. Messier was unanimously appointed board secretary.

Superintendent Matthew Gaven took the oath of office to begin his new term as superintendent, while Kerri Rinaldi was reappointed district treasurer. The board also unanimously approved the trustees to serve as the district’s audit committee.

Last month, Kevin Richmond was named assistant

superintendent for curriculum and instruction, William Herman was tapped as assistant superintendent for finance and operations, and the two men took over positions previously held by John DeTommaso and Jacqueline Rehak, respectively. They will begin work later this month.

Following the board’s

approval of his appointment, Brian Turk was welcomed as the district’s newest English Language Arts teacher at South Side Middle School.

“He was the clear number one pick from everyone that interviewed him,” Gaven said of Turk, “so we are super excited for him to join the staff at

Four officers earn department promotions

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

Four members of the Rockville Centre Police Department were recognized for advancing their careers during a promotion ceremony held during the Village Board of Trustees meeting at Village Hall last Monday.

Police Commissioner A. Randy Dodd announced the promotions of Joe Burnside to lieutenant, Tim Crosby and Brian Vacchio to sergeant, and Bret Ellers to police officer, praising each for the dedication, professionalism and leadership that earned them the new roles.

“There are very few days in a police commissioner’s career that are more rewarding than promotion,” Dodd said. “Today is not just about a new rank. It’s about recognizing those who have proven that they are ready to lead.”

Burnside previously served as a sergeant in the department. A graduate of the University at Albany with a degree in biology, he began his law enforcement career with the New York Police Department before joining the Rockville Centre Police Department in 2017.

Dodd noted that Burnside is believed to be the department’s second-youngest lieutenant.

Crosby began his law enforcement career with the NYPD in 2012 before joining the Rockville Centre Police Department in 2016. Before his promotion, he served as a field training officer, helping train and mentor new officers entering the department.

Dodd said Crosby’s promotion reflects more than 14 years of law enforcement experience and a strong work ethic.

Lt. Joe Burnside, from left, Sgt. Tim Crosby, Sgt. Brian Vacchio and police officer Bret Ellers were recognized for their promotions during the Rockville Centre Village Board of Trustees meeting at Village Hall last Monday.

Vacchio, a Lynbrook native and graduate of Delaware Valley University with a degree in criminal justice, joined the NYPD in 2008 before transferring to Rockville Centre. During his time with the village department, he has received several honors, including the Town of Hempstead Service Award.

Ellers was sworn in as the department’s newest police officer. Raised in Wantagh, he earned a bachelor’s degree in social studies from Buffalo State College, where he played football as a strong safety. After working as a teacher and coach, he began his law enforcement career with the New York State Police in 2023 before transferring to the Metropolitan Transpor-

tation Authority Police Department, where he served in the Highway Unit.

Dodd encouraged the newly promoted officers to lead by example as they take on their new responsibilities.

“They will not remember every order you gave them, but they will always remember the examples that you set,” Dodd said. “Never ask an officer to do something you wouldn’t do and always lead from the front.”

Family members, village officials, fellow officers and residents attended the ceremony to celebrate the four officers’ promotions.

Village Green launches summer music season

Families filled the Village Green for the opening night of the Village of Rockville Centre and Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce’s “Music on the Green” summer concert series, turning Maple Avenue into a relaxed evening gathering spot for live music, food and community fun.

The two-hour event on June 25 drew residents of all ages who spread out blankets and lawn chairs beneath the trees as the series officially kicked off its summer run. Warm weather and a festive atmosphere helped set the tone for what organizers say is intended to be a family-friendly tradition highlighting local entertainment and community connection.

The first performance of the series featured Those Damn Neighbors, who delivered an energetic set that engaged the crowd and set the stage for the summer lineup.

Organizers noted the concert series also includes local dining discounts and food delivery options, encouraging residents to support area businesses while enjoying the outdoor performances.

The “Music on the Green” series continues July 30 with The Basement, followed by the final scheduled performance on Aug. 27, with the band to be announced.

Launched as a collaboration between the village and chamber, the free summer concert series is designed to activate the Village Green as a central gathering space during the warmer months. The early evening performances encourage families to bring blankets and chairs while enjoying live music in a casual outdoor setting, while also supporting nearby restaurants and merchants through concert-night promotions.

–Brian Kacharaba

GLYNN FUNERAL HOME

Crime watCh

homiCide (natural)

On July 5, a 71-year-old Lakeview Avenue resident was discovered deceased in his home.

leaving the sCene

On June 30, an Oceanside resident reported that she was involved in a motor vehicle accident on Oceanside Road and the other vehicle fled the scene.

unusual inCidents

On June 29, a Muirfield Road resident reported that someone fraudulently altered and cashed a check she mailed.

On July 3, a Winding Road resident reported fraudulent transactions on her debit card account.

arrests

On June 30, Cesar Ocasio, 52, of Rockville Centre, was arrested and charged with aggravated criminal contempt of court, burglary, robbery, assault, and strangulation after he was involved in a domestic incident at his residence in violation of an order of protection.

On July 1, Marcellis Mays, 43, of Baldwin, was arrested and charged with petit larceny after he stole merchandise from Home Goods.

On July 1, Meghann Jones, 43, of Hempstead, was arrested and charged with petit larceny after she stole merchandise from Home Goods. This was a separate incident from the arrest of Mays.

On July 3, Shawn Saroop, 54, of Baldwin, was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated after he was involved in an auto accident 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.

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

June 28 – July 5

General Alarms – 7

Still Alarms – 6 Rescue – 3

Aided Cases (Ambulance) – 51

Mutual Aid Fire – 0

Mutual Aid Rescue – 0

Mutual Aid Ambulance – 1

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 – 279 Still Alarms – 167 Rescue – 113

Aided Cases (Ambulance) – 1,327

Mutual Aid Fire – 39

Mutual Aid Rescue – 0

Mutual Aid Ambulance – 6

Total – 68

Total – 1,931

HERALD SPORTS

Racing fans say final goodbye to Aqueduct

By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

was announced by the New York Racing Association.

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

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

The mural outside Aqueduct depicts Secretariat, who made his career debut there in 1972.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Foundation hosts first pickleball fundraiser

By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

The Rockville Centre-based Mary Ruchalski Foundation welcomed more than 150 pickleball enthusiasts to Pickleball Prime in Mineola for its inaugural pickleball tournament, raising thousands of dollars for pediatric cancer awareness while introducing a new community of supporters to the foundation’s mission.

The June 14 fundraiser was made possible through the support of Pickleball Prime owners the Regan and Coghlan families. The facility donated the use of its courts, provided instructors, helped organize raffles and played a key role in launching the tournament.

“They were so generous with their time in helping us kick off this event,” said Carol Ruchalski, the foundation’s co-founder and Mary’s mother. “We’re so grateful to them. They were really instrumental.”

About 150 players from across Long Island participated, with some traveling from as far as East Setauket. The tournament introduced many participants to the foundation’s work while expanding its reach beyond its traditional base of supporters.

Alice Moreno/Herald

More than 150 participants gathered at Pickleball Prime in Mineola on June 14 for the Mary Ruchalski Foundation’s inaugural pickleball tournament, raising funds and awareness for pediatric cancer research.

as part of the foundation’s annual Light the Way Lantern Campaign, along with a gold awareness ribbon to display during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in September. Ruchalski said she hopes the lanterns will help spread awareness throughout communities across Long Island.

The tournament also featured raffle prizes and is estimated to have raised several thousand dollars to support the foundation’s programs and awareness efforts. Beyond its fundraising success, the inaugural event introduced the organization’s mission to a broader audience.

The tournament marked the first major fundraiser organized by the foundation’s next generation of leadership. Ruchalski’s daughter, Lindsay Ruchalski-Robinson, and her husband, Stephen Robinson, chaired the event and oversaw its planning and execution.

“That’s the first event that they’ve chaired and run,” Ruchalski said. “I think, right out of the gate, they did a great job.”

Throughout the day, participants learned about the foundation’s mission and the legacy of Mary Ruchalski, whose memory continues to inspire the organization’s efforts to support children and families affected by pediatric cancer.

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“My favorite part was just meeting all these people and telling Mary’s story,” Ruchalski said. “Telling them about our foundation.”

One of the day’s highlights came through conversations with participants who shared their own experiences with childhood cancer, creating meaningful connections while reinforcing the importance of the foundation’s mission.

Each participant received a lantern

Following the tournament’s success, the foundation hopes to hold another pickleball event in January and expand the competition by offering multiple tournament dates during the winter season.

For more information, visit TheMaryRuchalskiFoundation.org.

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A musical celebration of America’s past

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

The show must go on. And for the Paul Effman Band, it did.

The band took the audience on a musical journey through American history during its June 25 performance at the Rockville Centre Public Library, celebrating the nation’s upcoming 250th birthday with patriotic favorites and timeless classics that have helped shape the country’s cultural identity.

Although bandleader Paul Effman was unable to attend because of a brief medical issue, the performance continued as scheduled, with pianist Tom Beckman quickly stepping in to redistribute musical parts among the ensemble.

Joining Beckman on stage were Roy Sparacino on bass guitar and vocals, Ilya Shteynmann on trumpet and Bill Resvanis on drums.

“It was the first performance I’ve ever missed in my career,” Effman said after returning to performing following his recovery. “I was devastated. But everybody was extremely pleased with how the show went.”

Because the decision came just hours before the 7 p.m. start time, there was no option to postpone the concert. Beckman, who also works with Effman on arranging the group’s music, reorganized the performance on short notice so the program could continue in full ensemble form.

“Tom has enough musical knowledge to regroup and redistribute parts so that the songs still sound entertaining without a sign of, ‘Hey, what’s missing from this?’” Effman said. “He’s never had to do it before in this band, but he did.”

Effman said the program itself was developed about 18 months ago after a library requested a concert to commemorate America’s semiquincentennial. He and Beckman spent extensive time arranging the music into a cohesive presentation of American musical history.

“From my memory, it’s about 1,000 hours of arranging,” Effman said.

The program features two major patriotic medleys. One traces American history through music, beginning with Revolutionary War-era selections and moving through World War I and World War II themes before concluding with Woody Guthrie’s “This Land Is Your Land.” The second is an Armed Forces medley highlighting the music of each branch of the military.

In addition to the patriotic material, the concert includes American popular music spanning the 1920s through the mid-20th century, with selections such as Irving Berlin’s “Blue Skies,” George Gershwin’s “‘S Wonderful,” Glenn Miller’s “Moonlight Serenade,” Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World,” and songs by the Beatles.

“The other songs are the fabric of our American culture,” Effman said. “Going from the ’20s up until the Beatles, it’s what we listened to in this country.”

Effman noted that library performances remain among the band’s most rewarding venues because audiences attend specifically for the music.

“It is a concert,” he said. “Everybody in that room is there for one purpose — to hear the band.”

Now back performing with the full ensemble, Effman said he hopes to return to Rockville Centre in the future.

“I’d like to thank them for being a great, appreciative audience,” he said. “We are honored they were there, and we will be back again.”

The Paul Effman Band’s Playlist

■ “The Star-Spangled Banner”

■ “America 250th Birthday Medley”

■ “Blue Skies”

■ “America the Beautiful”

■ “Battle Hymn of the Republic”

■ “S Wonderful”

■ “Embraceable You”

■ “All of Me”

■ “And the Angels Sing”

■ “My Country, ‘Tis of Thee”

■ “Moonlight Serenade”

■ “Sing, Sing, Sing”

■ “Simple Gifts”

■ “Bei Mir Bist Du Schön”

■ “Sentimental Journey”

■ “You’re a Grand Old Flag”

■ “Besame Mucho”

■ “The White Cliffs of Dover”

■ “What a Wonderful World”

■ “I Love Paris”

■ “Shake, Rattle and Roll”

■ “When I’m Sixty-Four”

■ “Amazing Grace”

■ “Penny Lane”

Three years later, middle schoolers move up

Nearly 300 South Side Middle School eighth graders marked the completion of their three-year journey during a moving-up ceremony in the school’s auditorium, celebrating their academic growth, lasting friendships and readiness for the transition to high school this fall.

Student speaker Antonio Mitchell opened the June 26 ceremony by reflecting on the challenges and growth that defined the class’s three years at South Side Middle School.

“Middle school is about finding yourself,” he said, joking that “judging by the overflowing lost and found, some of us are still working on that.”

Mitchell recalled the transition from elementary school, when students suddenly found themselves juggling lockers, multiple teachers and a larger campus.

“For many of us, opening our lockers were harder than some of our assignments,” he said.

He also reflected on the friendships formed and strengthened over the past three years while thanking teachers, staff and families for their support.

South Side High School Student Government Association President Addison Wilson encouraged students to embrace the opportunities ahead and to step outside their comfort zones as they prepare for high school life.

“Don’t be afraid to try new things,” she said. “It’s okay to feel a little uncomfortable when you’re trying something new. That’s how we learn and grow.”

Principal Shelagh McGinn, who was concluding her tenure in the role, expressed pride in the graduating class and the school community, describing South Side Middle School as “a tradition of caring.” She emphasized values of kindness, responsibility, and community, and reminded students of the importance of support systems as they move

forward.

Board of Education Vice President Erica Messier encouraged students to define success by their own personal growth.

“The distance between who you are and who you were is the only measure that will ever tell you something true about yourself,” she said.

Student farewell speaker Sydney Lamparello urged her classmates to embrace the next chapter without rushing through it, encouraging them to make the most of every experience along the way.

“Don’t read the last page before you even finish the first few chapters,” she said. “Your story is still being written.”

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates.

–Brian Kacharaba

Cup win caps decade of success for Storm

long regarded as one of New York’s premier youth teams.

The Red Storm delivered a balanced attacking performance in the final, with Makaela Brennan and Maeve Martin each scoring twice. Sofia Anisansel, Molly Barry, Ella Faranda, Julie Faranda, Anne Schiller and Ryann Zydor also scored.

“Our experience in playing at a high level for years made a difference in the game,” Co-coach Ciaran Barry said. “They’ve been together a long time, and it all came together at the right moment.”

The Red Storm will not make the trip to next week’s U.S. Youth Soccer National Championships in Murfreesboro, Tenn., as originally anticipated. Roster limitations created by the players taking summer jobs while preparing for college ultimately brought the team’s journey to an end on a championship high note.

“At the end of the day, I get it,” Barry said. “These girls have done so much for so long. You don’t want to just go; you want to do it together. We’ve done everything together and we’ll continue to do it together, so instead of being disappointed, we’ll just appreciate what we have.”

For Co-coach Janet Gruner, the ending was less about missing the nationals than appreciating nearly a decade spent watching the same group grow together.

“It’s definitely bittersweet,” she said. “It’s been a great run. It’s been a great team. They accomplished so much working together, and it’s really nice to see it come to an end in a positive way.”

Many of the players had been teammates since kindergarten, remaining together through years of club soccer while balancing school, other sports and high school competition. About 10 members of the Red Storm also helped South Side High School capture the Nassau County Class AA championship last fall, giving many of the seniors the opportunity to finish both their high school and club careers as champions.

“It was just the culmination of a lot of our work over the last few years together,” Barry said. “A lot of these kids have been together since kindergarten. They’ve been a dominant team for years in the state and have played in national tournaments, earning that recognition. It was a nice culmination for them to win the state championship.”

The club’s success was built on balance at both ends of the field. Abigail Gruner emerged as one of the top goalkeepers in the state, while Ryan Zydor, Molly Barry, Maddie Woo, Mikayla Brennan and Julie Baldacchino formed a cohesive back line whose communication and chemistry developed over years of playing together.

The Red Storm also established itself as one of the premier teams in the region beyond the state level, finishing undefeated in the National League’s North Atlantic Conference at 6-0-1. Its players scored 35 goals while allowing just eight for a plus-27 goal differential and finished the season ranked No. 1 in New York and No. 12 nationally, according to GotSport.

For Abigail Gruner, the champion -

Rockville Centre

Red Storm roster

Players:

Sofia Anisansel

Julie Baldacchino

Kiley Barry

Molly Barry

Makaela Brennan

Gabby Caminiti

Ella Faranda

Julie Faranda

Abigail Gruner

Viv Haley

Maeve Ledwith

Lilly Sullivan Lopez

Maeve Martin

Julia Quinn

Molly Reardon

Anne Schiller

Maddie Woo

Ryann Zydor

Coaching staff:

Ciaran Barry (co-coach)

Janet Gruner (co-coach)

Nic Vacarro (trainer)

Nicole Woo (team manager)

ship represented the perfect ending to a journey shared with lifelong teammates.

“Senior year is kind of full of lasts,” she said. “To close it out in such an amazing way after growing with them and watching everyone grow around me for so many years was really awesome. I’m really lucky to have been able to do it with this team.”

She added that the bond extended well beyond soccer.

“We’ve really seen each other through every stage of life,” Gruner said. “We’ve grown up together both on and off the field. These are the girls you’re seeing at school and growing up with. I think that really made us closer, and it showed on the field.”

Janet Gruner said she hoped the players would carry more than championships with them as they begin the next chapter.

“They’ve sort of been the underdogs for a lot of years,” she said. “I think they’ve learned a lot about hard work and grit and determination, and how important truly connecting as a team can be. They couldn’t have really asked for a better youth soccer experience.”

As the Red Storm’s story comes to a close, the next chapter for the Rockville Centre Soccer Club is already underway.

The Red Devils Under-12 girls’ team also captured the Girls Under-12 New York State Cup championship that same weekend, defeating Glen Cove 2-0 in Middletown behind goals from Felicity Brown and Kiera Endy, while goalkeeper Risa Maccione recorded the shutout. The victory earned Rockville Centre the Joanne Roth Cup, the trophy awarded to the Girls Under-12 State Cup champion.

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Cover Story

Summer in motion Fitness beyond

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

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

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

Beat the heat

Summer temperatures can quickly turn a workout into a health risk. Exercising during the hottest parts of the day can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion or even heat stroke. Whenever possible, schedule outdoor activities during the cooler morning or evening hours, typically before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m. Check the heat index before heading outside, and if temperatures or humidity levels are extreme, consider moving your workout indoors to an air-conditioned gym, recreation center or your own home.

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

Protect your skin

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

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

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

body cooler during outdoor activities.

Hydration matters

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

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

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

After exercise, experts recommend consuming 20 to 24 ounces of water or a sports beverage for every pound of body weight lost during exercise.

Don’t skip the warm-up

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

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

Try something new

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

Consider adding activities such as:

• Walking or jogging on local trails

• Swimming or water aerobics

• Outdoor yoga classes

• Kayaking or paddleboarding

• Hiking

• Recreational sports leagues

Our parks, beaches and community organizations also o er free or low-cost fitness classes throughout the summer. Rev up the heart and cardiovascular system with sports you can play in the great outdoors. Eschew indoor racquetball for a game on an outdoor court. Try pickleball instead.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Take advantage of the beach

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

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

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

core and hips.

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

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

Keep moving all summer long

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

Summer is the perfect season

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

The Best Outdoor Workouts to Try

1. Trail Running

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Surfing

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

“It’s a great anaerobic exercise that will help strengthen the trapezius, abdominals, and obliques, as well as the lats, triceps, biceps, and deltoids,”

Jimmy Minardi, C.P.T., founder of Minardi Training, says.

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

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

gear, such as a leash and personal flotation device.

3. Hiking

What it works: Cardiovascular system, lower body, and aerobic endurance Benefits: Hiking intensity is highly customizable, making it an accessible outdoor workout.

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

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

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

Long Beach Boardwalk

Mhealth

at Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Community Wellness Center

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

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

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

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

The American Academy of Dermatologists recommends you:

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

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

• Reapply sunscreen every two hours, even on cloudy days

• Wear clothing that covers the body and shades the face

• Schedule an annual skin cancer screening

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

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

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

• Keep a safe distance from boat propellers

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

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

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

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

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

intervention is key to avoiding further injury

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

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

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

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

• Keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot

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

• Discard all leftovers

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

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

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

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

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

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

Noon-3 p.m. — Lung health*

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

106 East Boardwalk, Long Beach

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

June 1- September 4, 2026

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

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

*30-60 minute sessions available within this timeframe.

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

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

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

*30-60 minute sessions available within this timeframe.

Diabetes Risk Assessment Screenings* | 12 pm - 2 pm

*30-60 minute sessions available within this timeframe.

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

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

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

*30-60 minute sessions available within this timeframe.

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

• Blood Pressure

• Body Mass Index (BMI)

• Colorectal Screening

• Diabetes Risk Assessment

• Memory Screening

• Stroke Risk Assessment

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

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

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

Be sun smart

Take precautions so that the sun is friend not foe

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

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

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

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

Have your fun but proceed with caution

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

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

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

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

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

Avoid the burn

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

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

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

Seek shade

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

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

Cover up

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

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

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

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

woven fabrics.

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

Wear sunscreen — and reapply it

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

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

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

Don’t overlook commonly missed areas, including:

• Ears

• Back of the neck

• Scalp or part line

• Tops of the feet

• Hands

• Lips

• Around the eyes

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

Forget the ‘base tan’

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

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

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

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

Protect your eyes

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

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

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

Children require extra precautions

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

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

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

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

Know when to seek medical care

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

• Extensive blistering

• Fever or chills

• Severe pain

• Confusion or dizziness

• Signs of dehydration

• Nausea or vomiting

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

The Freedom To Hear and Stay Independent.

very Independence Day, we celebrate freedom.

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

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

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

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

from social situations that once felt effortless.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Freedom To Hear and Stay

Program Director The New Terminal One MEREDITH VANDEGRIFT, MD, FACS Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Vandegrift Plastic Surgery KRISTIN THORNE Emmy-Award Winning Investigative Reporter

THERESA PORCARO Vice President, Growth & Marketing Pelvic Rehabilitation Medicine

Congregants and community members gathered at the United Church of

Centre for the Community Pride worship service on June 7, which featured music, readings, and participation in a symbolic color-themed segment.

Celebrating Pride through worship, music, fellowship

The United Church of Rockville Centre held its Community Pride worship service earlier this month, bringing together congregants, community members, public officials and visitors for a morning service featuring music, readings and fellowship.

The June 7 church service took place as part of the congregation’s centennial observance. The church, located at 430 Morris Ave., is an Open and Affirming congregation of the United Church of Christ and states that it has a public commitment to welcoming LGBTQ+ individuals and their families.

The program included guest vocalists Kris Carrasco, Katie Travis and Eric Jordan Young, with Brian Sweeney accompanying on piano. Musical selections included songs from “Hercules,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” and “The Prom.”

During the service, the congregation reflected on the story of Joseph and his coat of many colors. The message invited worshipers to consider how many LGBTQ+ people learn to hide parts of themselves in order to feel safe, and how

Pride can become a way of recovering what fear taught people to hide. A participatory moment, “Sacred Mischief: Adding Color,” invited the congregation to help create a colorful stole as a sign of belovedness restored and carried together.

Following the worship service, attendees gathered for a reception on the church lawn. Guests received heartshaped Pride pins.

Rev. Scott A. Ressman, pastor of United Church, addressed the congregation during the service.

“A Pride flag, a pin, or a sign can matter,” Ressman said. “Public symbols can help someone know they may be safer with you than in other places. But allyship does not stop with a symbol. It grows through listening, learning, speaking, and showing up when it matters.”

United Church has held its Open and Affirming designation for 22 years. During its centennial year, the congregation has described its mission as continuing its ministry in Rockville Centre.

–Brian Kacharaba

Leos unleash support for guide dogs

Members of the South Side High School Leos Club hosted a walk-a-thon on June 13 to raise money for the Guide Dog Foundation. The event, held under the supervision of Leos Club advisers Josie Bishop and Marcelle Manteria, featured music, community walkers and a visit from Guide Dog Foundation volunteer Carol Tepper and Jackson, a breeder dog. Proceeds from the fundraiser benefited the foundation.

Inspirational drawings from our youngest readers

AMERICA

By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

Farming fueled Long Island before suburbia

Angelina

Zingariello/Herald

While the landscape and industries of Long Island have changed over the years, the East End holds onto its farming roots. Every spring, the Waterdrinker Family Farm & Garden in Manorville plants over a million tulips for the annual Tulip Festival.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

helped shape the conditions under which later development would occur.

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

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

AMERICA

ABy BRIAN KACHARABA, ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN & LAYLA EASON

of the Herald

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

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

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

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

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

1 2 3

Landmarks define Long Island’s history

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

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

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

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

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

of civic institutions across Long Island.

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

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

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

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

shape the nation itself.

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

Brian Kacharaba/Herald

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

Layla Eason/Herald

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

Library of Congress Prints and Photographs

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

Layla Eason/Herald

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

Alyssa R. Griffin/Herald

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

Alyssa R. Griffin/Herald

By Leah Ramai (Hunter) Sewanhaka High School freshman

AReader, three centuries is a long time.

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

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

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

AMERICA America at its 300th anniversary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Look into the future

YBy JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

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

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

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

MARY BERENsON

Art historian

As a teenager and young adult, Whitman worked as a printer, teacher and journalist across Long Island and New York City. When he returned to Huntington, he founded The Long-Islander, a local newspaper that is still being published.

His formative years placed Whitman in close contact with people from every corner of American life: laborers, commuters, families, readers, voters and strangers passing through the world around him. That broad human canvas helped shape the ideals that came to define his poetry — a sweeping appreciation for everyday Americans.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STEPPING OUT

Photos courtesy LICM

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

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

More than art

Cool off with an ‘Artventure’

By Stacy Driks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fireworks with the South Shore Symphony

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

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

What program is best for you?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Clay holds a special place for Mansfield.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And this is only the beginning.

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

Until then, paint, sculpt, squish and create all summer — one colorful adventure at a time. For schedules, admission and registration information, visit licm.org.

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

The Bronx Wanderers

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

Sunday, July 12,7:30 p.m. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

Lights, camera, Long Island!

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

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

• Time: Varied, through July 16

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

jul

10

‘The American Revolution: Episode 5’

The Rockville Centre Public Library’s Friday Flicks series featurs Episode 5 of Ken Burns’ The American Revolution, titled “The Soul of American December 1777May 1780.” The French-American alliance changes the war and moves it to other theaters; navies battle off England and in the Caribbean, while armies advance in Indian Country and the South; the British take Charleston.

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

• Time: 2 p.m.

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

‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’

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

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

• Time: Various dates and times, through Aug. 2

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

Wild Child

• Time: 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

• Contact: John Madson at 516-306-9127

2026 Summer Sing

Calling all singers! From experienced choral veterans to shower singers with a taste for the classics, all are welcome at Long Island Choral Society’s sing-in happening. The repertoire includes Faure Requiem and assorted choral works to honor America. Summer Sing is an opportunity for people who love to sing, love choral music or both to get together with like-minded individuals and sing some great musical compositions. It’s not a performance. There aren’t any rehearsals. There’s no audience. We just sing for our own enjoyment. Don’t worry if you don’t know all the notes. The point is not perfection, it is to have fun. Bring your own musical score or borrow one. $10 donation.

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

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: LICS.org

jul 11

Family theater

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

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

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

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

Disco grooves

Eisenhower Park’s Summer Concert Series continues with Disco Unlimited. When Sista Soul, Sparkle Sista, Joe Cool,

Strat Cat Ricky Smooth and The MacDaddy, all hit the stage, you are instantly transported to a time when Saturday nights meant white suits, platform shoes and your very best dance moves. And dance you will – when you experience the magic created when the boogie begins.

• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow

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

Singles mixer

Join in the Rockville Centre Singles Mixer 2026, hosted by DateFaster. The relaxed social event will feature drink specials, name tags, and guided icebreakers designed to help attendees meet and mingle in a casual, pressure-free setting. Organizers say the mixer offers a fun way for local singles to connect through conversation and shared activities at their own pace.

• Where: Available after ticket purchase

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: EventBrite. com/E/Rockville-CentreSingles-Mixer-2026Tickets-1988846742144

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

• Time: 8 p.m.

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

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

Fireworks celebration and concert

The village hosts its annual fireworks celebration and concert, featuring a performance by the South Shore Symphony and a fireworks display by Grucci. The concert begins at 7 p.m., with the fireworks accompanied by a coordinated musical score. Residents are invited to bring family and friends for one of the village’s most popular summer traditions. In case of inclement weather, it will be rescheduled for July 12.

• Where: Pette and Barasch Fields, Rockville Centre

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 678-9300

Blood Drive

The St. Agnes Knights of Columbus Council No. 2548 hosts a community blood drive at the St. Agnes Parish Center. Organizers encourage both regular and first-time donors to take part, noting that just three percent of the community currently provides 100 percent of the blood supply. New donors are welcome to join that effort.

• Where: 29 Quealy Place, Rockville Centre

The World Goes

Rounnd: Songs of Kander & Ebb

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

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

• Time: 2:30 p.m.

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

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

MTA board ratifies LIRR wage agreements

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority board gave final approval to new collective bargaining agreements with Long Island Rail Road unions, formally closing out contracts that emerged from last month’s three-day strike and raising wages by nearly 15 percent over four years.

The four-year agreement provides members of the five unions with annual wage increases of 3 percent in each of the first two years, followed by a 3.5 percent increase in the third year and a 4.5 percent increase in the final year. Over the life of the contract, those raises compound to a total pay increase of approximately 14.7 percent.

The vote, taken during a June 24 board meeting following an executive session, ratified agreements that had already been approved by unions representing about 3,500 LIRR workers. Those unions include the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen, Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and Transportation Communications Union.

Union members across the coalition overwhelmingly ratified the agreements in recent weeks, with votes exceeding 97 percent approval in several cases. In the

Alyssa R. Griffin/Herald

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority board approved new four-year contracts for Long Island Rail Road unions, finalizing agreements reached after a three-day strike and delivering nearly 15 percent wage increases for about 3,500 workers.

final ratification round, Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen members approved their contract by 98 percent, according to union officials.

Union leaders said the deal resulted from a prolonged bargaining process that stretched more than three years and included federal mediation and a strike.

“We went three years without raises and negotiated in good faith. We negotiated to the buzzer,” said Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen General Chairman Gil Lang in a state-

ment, adding that his members “never wavered” during the dispute and credited solidarity across the coalition for securing the agreement.

International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers International President Brian Bryant also praised members for their unity.

“This victory belongs to the members who stood together and never wavered,” he said in his statement. “Their solidarity carried them through every challenge and ultimately delivered this his-

toric result.”

MTA CEO Janno Lieber said the board’s action marks the completion of a lengthy bargaining process.

Speaking during the meeting, Lieber said the board “voted to approve those agreements,” noting they were the same labor deals previously ratified by the unions involved.

He said the final economic terms came in slightly lower than earlier projections once offsets were factored in. While the fourth year includes a 4.5 percent general wage increase, Lieber said cost-saving measures reduced the overall impact to the MTA by about seventenths of a percentage point.

He said those savings came in part from extending the agreement’s length and changing how required computerbased training is delivered, allowing workers to complete it on straight time rather than requiring overtime coverage and replacement staffing.

Lieber said the net cost of the deal is “well under 4 percent,” allowing it to fit within the MTA’s financial plan.

The agreement follows a period of intense labor negotiations that culminated in a three-day strike last month, the first at the Long Island Rail Road since 1994. The strike halted regular commuter rail service across Long Island and affected tens of thousands of daily riders before a tentative settlement was reached.

July 9, 2026 — ROCKVILLE

LEGAL NOTICE

Public Notices

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 JULY 23, 2026 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud. The contract will be awarded as soon thereafter as practicable for:

WELL NO. 2C PUMP COLUMN REPLACEMENT

Bid No. 2607W1(1197)

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 July 16, 2026. All contractors and subcontractors submitting bids or performing construction work on public work projects or private projects covered by Article 8 of the Labor Law are required to register with the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) under Labor Law Section 220i and must include a copy of the registration with their bid response. 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 161113

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS

Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 07/22/2026 at 9:30 A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:

THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M.

373/26. SOUTH HEMPSTEAD - Joseph Incao, Renewal of grant for a variance to maintain interior alterations to a legal non-conforming detached garage with apartment above., N/s Oak St., 60’ W/o Maple Ave., a/k/a 347 Oak St.

ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550.

This notice is only for new cases in South Hempstead within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals

The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo

Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it.

161100

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE OF COOPERATIVE APARTMENT SECURITY BY VIRTUE OF A DEFAULT

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: By virtue of a default under a Security Agreement dated January 10, 2005, executed by ROBERT ROMANO A/K/A ROBERT S. ROMANO (“Debtor”), as assigned to STATE OF NEW YORK MORTGAGE AGENCY (“Secured Party”), said Secured Party, by Auctioneer(s): Richie Schultz, John Roman, Michael Campbell or Stephan G. Marcelin, will conduct a public sale of the security consisting of 373 shares of stock of JEFFERSON AVENUE OWNER’S CORP. (“Corporation”), and all right, title, and interest in and to a Proprietary Lease between said Corporation and Debtor for the apartment known as 1 JEFFERSON AVENUE, APT/UNIT G11, ROCKVILLE CENTRE, NY 11570, together with all fixtures and articles of personal property now or hereafter affixed to or used in connection with said apartment on July 30, 2026 at 1:00 PM, on the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501, in satisfaction of an indebtedness in the unpaid principal amount of $62,262.23 plus interest, late fees,

attorney fees, maintenance in arrears, and all other advanced charges. The apartment is sold “AS IS” AND POSSESSION TO BE OBTAINED BY THE PURCHASER. Said sale is subject to residency requirements of the Corporation, payment of all sums due, if any, JEFFERSON AVENUE OWNER’S CORP., and the consent if necessary, of said Corporation; any existing tenancy; payment of all expenses and fees of the secured party with respect thereto; terms of sale and auctioneer’s fees; flip-tax; State, City, and County transfer tax. The Secured Party reserves the right to bid. Terms: an official bank or certified check made payable to Stern & Eisenberg, P.C., as attorneys for the Secured Party for ten (10%) percent of price bid. No cash accepted. Balance shall be due within thirty (30) days.

ATTORNEYS FOR SECURED PARTY: Stern & Eisenberg, P.C. 20 Commerce Drive, Suite 230, Cranford, NJ 07016, and 1131 Route 55, Suite 1, Lagrangeville, NY 12540 P. 516-630-0288 F. 732-726-8719

Dated: June 18, 2026 Firm File No. NY202600000035-2 161105

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION of Rooted Motherhood LLC. Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 4/23/2026. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to 147 Cleveland Avenue, Rockville Centre NY 11570. Purpose: any lawful act. 161115

Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com

Kelly Barry, from left, Superintendent matthew gaven and South Side High School senior Callie mann are sworn in during the rockville Centre Board of education’s July 1 reorganizational meeting. Barry began a new term as board president, gaven as superintendent and mann as student board member.

Board of Ed. reorganizes for 2026-27 school year

Continued from page 1

the middle school.”

Earlier in the meeting, South Side High School senior Callie Mann was sworn in to her second term as student board member, the student representative on the board.

Barry then announced committee assignments for the new year. In addition to serving on the audit committee, all five trustees will serve on the building visitation committee.

Messier was appointed to the district safety team and, along with Joyce, will serve on the finance committee. Dorrego and Downing were appointed to the Committee on Special Education and the Committee on Preschool Special Education. Dorrego will also serve on the Parent Advisory Title I Committee and the district’s wellness committee. Downing and Joyce were appointed to the policy committee, while Downing will continue serving as the board’s liaison to the Rockville Centre Education Foundation.

During his superintendent’s report, Gaven reflected on the district’s recent end-of-year celebrations, recognizing graduating seniors, students advancing to new schools and the faculty and staff who helped make those milestones possible.

He also highlighted the recent discovery and opening of a time capsule buried at South Side Middle School, which was then known as South Side Junior High School, by students in 1976, after an unidentified former student alerted the district to its existence.

READ THEM

“Inside of that time capsule from 1976 were cassette tapes, slides, letters, poems and reflections from students all imagining their future,” Gaven said. “Their hopes included the opportunity for maybe stronger medicine, curing cancer, electric cars, and they even hoped that the Beatles would get back together.”

The contents, he said, provided a fascinating glimpse into the aspirations of students five decades ago, and will be incorporated into educational activities

2026-27 trustee leadership roles and assignments

Kelly Barry — board president; audit committee; building visitation committee

Donna Downing — board vice president; policy committee; Committee on Special Education and Committee on Preschool Special Education; liaison to the Rockville Centre Education Foundation; building visitation committee

Erica Messier — board secretary; district-wide safety team; finance committee; building visitation committee

Christa Dorrego — CSE/CPSE; Parent Advisory Title I Committee; wellness committee; building visitation committee

Mary Beth Joyce — finance committee; policy committee; building visitation committee

at the middle school during the upcoming school year. School officials said that a ceremony focusing on the time capsule will take place when students return to school.

As the district transitions into its summer programs, Gaven emphasized that learning continues well beyond the end of the school year. “So just when anyone thinks that we are not busy and we’re closed for the summer, it starts again on [July 6],” he said.

He reminded parents to be mindful of traffic and parking around school buildings during the summer and to avoid blocking driveways or neighborhood streets during drop-off and pick-up.

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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

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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

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

PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for

Contemporary Coastal Living

Stunning

What to do about cracking concrete

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© 2026 Monte Leeper

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

July 9,

Stuff HERALD

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opinions

Our town is standing up for mothers, fathers and families

At a time when many Americans feel that common sense is increasingly under attack, the Town of Hempstead has taken a stand.

Last month the Town Board voted to approve my resolution to protect mothers and fathers, making our township the first municipality in New York state to formally preserve the terms “mother” and “father” throughout our municipal code, forms and official documents.

For many residents, this may seem like something that shouldn’t require government action. After all, mothers and fathers have been the foundation of families and communities since the beginning of our nation. Yet recent actions in Albany have made it clear that what once seemed self-evident can no longer be taken for granted.

Legislation recently passed by the State Legislature would replace longstanding family terminology in state law with terms such as “gestating parent” and “non-gestating parent.” Many

parents across Long Island see something much larger at stake than mere terminology. They see an effort to remove language that has reflected the reality of family life for generations.

The language we use shapes how we understand our institutions, our traditions and our values. When government begins replacing universally understood terms like “mother” and “father” with bureaucratic alternatives, it sends a message that these roles are somehow outdated or unworthy of recognition. I reject that notion, and so does the Town Board.

Wnot deserve to be erased.

The Town of Hempstead has always been a place where families come first. Our residents choose to live here because of our neighborhoods, schools, parks, houses of worship and sense of community. These are the institutions that make suburban life possible and help families thrive.

e don’t want any part of terms like ‘gestating’ and ‘non-gestating parent.’

This resolution is not about excluding anyone. It is not about judging how people choose to live their lives. Rather, it is about affirming a simple truth that mothers and fathers play unique and indispensable roles in raising children and building strong families.

As a husband and father, I know firsthand the importance of family. I know what it means to hear children call out for their mom or dad. I know the sacrifices parents make every day to provide for their families, teach their children values and prepare the next generation for success. Those roles deserve respect, recognition and preservation. They do

That’s why our local government has consistently focused on policies that improve quality of life. We have worked to keep taxes affordable, strengthen public safety, invest in parks and infrastructure, and deliver essential services efficiently. But protecting our community also means defending the values that unite us. When Albany extremists advance policies that touch on fundamental aspects of family and community life, local governments have a responsibility to speak up on behalf of the people they represent.

Hempstead is America’s largest township. With that distinction comes a responsibility to lead. We cannot simply sit on the sidelines and hope someone else will defend the principles that matter to our residents.

Our resolution sends a clear message that the mothers and fathers of Hemp-

stead will not be ignored. It tells families that their local government hears their concerns and shares their belief that traditional parental roles remain worthy of recognition. And it demonstrates that local communities still have a voice, even when they disagree with the direction coming from Albany.

As we continue to celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence, we should reflect on the values that have sustained this country through its greatest challenges. Family is one of those values. Strong families create strong neighborhoods. Strong neighborhoods create strong communities. And strong communities create a strong nation. This simple principle is as true today as it was generations ago.

The town’s resolution to protect mothers and fathers is about preserving that foundation for future generations. It is about ensuring that common-sense language remains part of our public institutions. And it is about standing up for the families who make our township such a special place to live.

I’m proud that Hempstead has led the way. My hope is that other communities across New York will join us in affirming the importance of mothers, fathers and the families they help build. These are values worth defending.

John Ferretti is supervisor of the Town of Hempstead.

We must ensure the Drug Pricing Program helps patients

At a time of economic uncertainty and rising costs, affordability matters more than ever — especially for New Yorkers battling serious illnesses and navigating the health care system. For this reason, we must ensure that government programs meant to reduce costs and increase access to care are working for the people.

One such program is the 340B Drug Pricing Program, which the federal government created to allow safety-net hospitals and community health centers to help vulnerable patients access their medications at discounted prices. Unfortunately, the 340B program has strayed far from its original purpose, becoming a major source of revenue for health care systems, and not just for safety net providers. An analysis by the Empire Center for Public Policy found that some of New York’s most well-funded hospitals are taking in hundreds of

millions of dollars through the program each year. But there is remarkably little transparency into whether patients are truly benefiting from that funding.

Hospitals participating in 340B purchase medications at steeply discounted prices while still billing insurers and patients at much higher rates. For cancer treatments, some hospitals charge nearly five times what they paid to acquire the medications through the 340B program. Those markups can drive up deductibles and coinsurance costs, harming patients who are already facing financial challenges.

TOur bill is intended to improve rather than undermine the integrity of the 340B program. It is a common-sense reform to make sure the program works for the people it was designed to help.

he 340B program is now a major revenue source for health care systems.

That’s why Democratic Assembly member Amanda Septimo, of the Bronx, and I introduced legislation requiring 340B-covered entities in New York to report how much revenue they generate through the program and how those funds are spent. Under our bill, the State Department of Health would make that information publicly available so patients, taxpayers and lawmakers could better understand whether the program is fulfilling its mission.

Patients who generate substantial 340B revenues for hospitals often have no idea the program even exists. Hospital patients rarely see those savings reflected at the pharmacy counter or in their medical bills, and there is currently no clear public accounting of where the money generated by the program ultimately goes.

That demonstrates a clear need for transparency in the system.

As a breast cancer survivor, I understand that a cancer diagnosis takes a physical and emotional toll on the patient and their family. Expensive treatments are often unavoidable, and no one battling cancer should have to question whether they can afford the care needed to survive. But people battling cancer often do face financial hardship as medical bills, prescription costs, transportation expenses and lost income

add up. Nearly half of cancer patients and survivors have medical debt, and cancer patients are five times more likely to experience bankruptcy.

Programs intended to support vulnerable patients should be accountable to the public and focused on delivering measurable benefits to the people they were created to serve. New Yorkers and policymakers should have a full accounting of whether hospitals are or are not using these resources to reduce patient costs, expand charity care, improve access to treatment, and strengthen health care services in underserved communities. And if those benefits are not reaching patients, we need to have honest conversations about how to fix and improve the program. Patients and families are already carrying enormous emotional and financial burdens. We need to make sure that medication discount programs are there to provide relief — not to simply boost the revenues of large health care systems. New Yorkers deserve to know whether a program created to lower costs and expand access to care is truly delivering on that promise.

Siela Bynoe represents the 6th State Senate District.

Fax: (516)

HERALD

Investing in libraries pays dividends all year

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

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

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

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

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

letterS

Scott’s column should be required college reading

To the Editor:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The administration just won’t let up on deportation

There was an especially poignant happening on Long Island recently, amid the Trump administration’s campaign against immigrants, when honor student Sara Lopez Garcia returned — virtually — for graduation ceremonies at Suffolk County Community College and gave a video presentation.

A year earlier, Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents had raided Garcia’s home in Mastic and arrested her.

As Bart Jones reported in Newsday, Garcia, who had a 3.9 GPA, “told the crowd … that while she joined in celebrating their new degrees, including hers, the day was bittersweet, as she was forced to watch from 2,500 miles away in South America.”

“This day brings really difficult memories for me,” Garcia, dressed in graduation regalia, said from Colombia. Of her arrest, she added, “It was one of the moments of my life when I felt fear. I was so scared, and everything was uncertain. I didn’t know what would happen to me, to my family, to my future.”

LeTTers

She was sent to an ICE detention facility in Louisiana. She had been brought to the United States by her mother, who was also arrested, and has no criminal record.

Jones wrote that SCCC English Professor Cynthia Eaton had nominated Garcia to speak at graduation because “she was a model of determination in the face of adversity.” Said Eaton: “She is a good thinker. She’s a good learner. She’s a good person … Everybody on our campus knew Sara’s smile. They all loved Sara. She was like a magnet … upbeat, positive.”

A

former Border Patrol chief talks of deporting over 100 million people.

followed by laws enacted by New York state that prohibit “local governments, state and local police, and state and local corrections” from entering into “agreements with the federal government that allow for state and local enforcement personnel and facilities to be used for civil immigration enforcement purposes” — and that also ban “state, local and federal officers from wearing face covering while interacting with the public.”

immigrants who are here.”

The website Mediaite commented that this is one-third of the nation’s population, and “the true number of illegal immigrants peaked at 14 million in 2023, according to Pew [Research Center].”

Jim Morgo, ex-chief deputy Suffolk County executive, a former vice chair of the college’s board of trustees and a teacher, said that Garcia “is the perfect example of everything that’s wrong with mass deportation. There’s no distinguishing the honor students from the rapist.”

On Long Island, as is the case in the rest of the nation, there’s opposition to President Trump’s deportation program. For months there have been protests. The Town of East Hampton and, before that, East Hampton Village passed laws blocking their participation with ICE.

The town and village actions were

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

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

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

But Tom Homan, the exdirector of ICE who was given the title of “border czar” by Trump, has vowed that if New York passed “this ridiculous legislation,” ICE would “flood the zone. You’re going to see more ICE agents than you ever seen before.”

And in a party-line vote in the U.S. Senate, Republicans passed $70 billion in new funding for ICE and the U.S. Border Patrol, in addition to $150 billion the agencies received last year.

Meanwhile, Greg Bovino, the former Border Patrol chief who was removed in January after Renee Good and Alex Pretti were killed by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis, has announced that he is running for president, and said, “My one and only priority is deporting the 106 million illegal

FrAmework by

Tim Baker

Back to earth and Long Island, the Bridgehampton Museum recently held an exhibition titled, “What We Carry: Memory & Migration.” “Rooted in themes central to the East End and beyond, What We Carry underscores how migration stories are embedded in local history while resonating on a global scale,” the museum wrote, and was co-curated by Jeremy Dennis, a Shinnecock Native American; Mark Wilson, who has roots in Australia; and Darius Yektai, who has an Iranian and Greek background.

The exhibition was scheduled to be followed by presentations by East Hampton attorney Lenny Ackerman, the author of “Leibisch’s Journey,” a book about his father’s escape from the horrors of the Russian Revolution through Europe to the U.S., and Tara Rider, a Stony Brook University professor of history, to speak about her book “Journey of Hope: The Irish in New York.”

Karl Grossman has been an investigative reporter in a variety of media for more than 50 years. He is a professor of journalism at the State University of New York at Old Westbury.