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Vol. 36 No. 35

AUGUST 28 - SEPTEMBER 3, 2025

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Eagle Scout builds altar for RVC church lot of other things about the church on the outdoors that also needed some fixing up, The Church of the Ascen- such as painting, and there sion, in Rockville Centre, has a were some potholes in the new outdoor stone altar, thanks ground of the church that we figured needed to be fixed so to the hard work and vision of people don’ t g et 15-year-old Eagle hurt by tripping in S c o u t c a n d i d at e them.” Christian CarbonAfter consulting aro. with the Rev. Kevin Carbonaro, a Morris, rector of resident of OceansChurch of the ide and a member Ascension on N. of T roop 332 in Vi l l a g e Ave n u e, E a s t Ro c k aw ay, Carbonaro got chose to dedicate approval to move his Eagle project to forward. Together his church after they finaliz ed a reflecting on how design for the new he could give back altar. But there was to the community. REV. KEVIN much more to do, He had noticed that MoRRIS as Carbonaro needthe Episcopal Rector, ed to raise funds church’s outdoor Church of the for the stone altar. altar and grounds The altar came were in disrepair, Ascension with significant and decided to take on a project that would improve costs, he said. To cover them, the worship space for years to he organized a fundraiser. He created fliers and promoted a come. “We found that the old altar GoFundMe campaign, to which for our church, that was out- parishioners contributed gendoors for outdoor services, was erously. He raised about $10,000, kind of in disrepair, and it was exceeding the $7,000 he origivery outdated,” Carbonaro, a nally needed. The additional sophomore at Oceanside High money was directed to other School, said, “and there were a Continued on page 17

By AlYSSA R. GRIFFIN

agriffin@liherald.com

Deliah Roberts/Herald photos

Music, family and fun at Community Day Above, members of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center gathered to hold their annual West End Community Day on Aug. 23 for the Rockville Centre community. Right, Edianny Canela, 8, and Jordyn Ocasio, 8, celebrated the end of the summer with bounce house fun and tasty treats. Story, more photos, Page 3.

his has led to the beautification of a sacred space that exists within the heart of the village.

August 28, 2025 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

West End walks for fitness and wellness By JANE BAGATTA Herald Intern

August is National Wellness Month, and two local physical and mental health advocates are working hard to bring awareness to the community. On the morning of Aug. 23, Alicia James, a maternal mental health advocate, speaker, writer and marketing coach from Rockville Centre, led the West End Community Fitness and Wellness Walk. Participants walked the trail along Smith Pond, which has been recently revitalized by New York State’s Living with the Bay Program. As a result of refurbishing the trail and pond, the area now has a variety of ecological hallmarks that made it a scenic place for the Wellness Walk. These attributes include a greenway path, floodwalls, bulkheads, a new lighting system and a fish ladder in the pond. “As a person who is a huge mental health advocate and wellness advocate, I strongly believe in utilizing parks, utilizing public spaces to get reconnected to nature, the environment, and that’s healing in doing that,” James said. Along with James, physical therapy specialist Andrea A. McFarlin also led a workout for people to get active. McFarlin, who has been practicing physical therapy for over 46 years, met James at Shiloh Baptist Church located in the West End. The two have been friends for about 20 years, according to James. “This is definitely a collaboration,” James said about her and McFarlin’s involvement in the walk. “Andrea and I have worked together in different (capacities), because being physically active, walking, engaging, are also part of mental health and mental wellness.” James currently lives in New York City but grew

Courtesy Alicia James

Residents from Rockville Centre and Lakeview joined Alicia James on the West End Community Fitness and Wellness Walk on Aug. 23. up in Rockville Centre as a third generation West End resident on both sides of her family. “Both of my parents…my maternal and paternal grandparents all lived in the West End,” James said. “I grew up in that community from the time I was born, I resided in that community, so it’s very dear to me.” She works with the Preserve A Mom Project, where she advocates for and promotes the mental wellness of Black mothers throughout their entire motherhood journey, starting from pregnancy. “We’re addressing the stigma of mental health and mental illness in communities of color and creating awareness, connecting moms to resources and also promot-

ing what wellness looks like, to create an environment where it’s safe to talk about people’s challenges,” she said. James expresses hope that Rockville Centre residents will begin to integrate the Smith Pond Trail, as well as other outdoor recreational areas into their wellness routines. “It really is important that, regardless if you live in the West End or any part of Rockville Centre, or any part of Long Island that you reconnect with nature, the environment,” James said. “I hope that they are encouraged to be more conscious of their well-being,” James said of those who participated in the walk. “It’s a beautiful thing.”

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Playing on the Porch is Rockville Centre’s movable music festival. Live bands perform on porches, decks, front yards, and driveways throughout the Village in this free, family-friendly event.

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — August 28, 2025 Deliah Roberts/Herald photos

40 Plus Double Dutch Club came out to celebrate the 24th annual West End Community Day on Aug. 23 with Legislator Scott M. Davis, center, and Patrick Morris, director of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, back right.

Families and leaders celebrate at MLK Center By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

The 24th annual West End Community Day filled the streets outside the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center on Aug. 23, bringing families, friends and neighbors together for an end-of-summer celebration. The block party marked another year of fun, music and community pride. “We’ve been fortunate to have great weather when we have this community day,” Patrick Morris, director of the MLK Community Center, said. “I’m excited about the music. We have a DJ, we also have a live band, with a live singer. People love live music, myself included...We celebrate the end of the summer, the end of the youth summer program, and just the community come together as one.” This year’s activities included bouncy houses, slides, face painting, and live entertainment from Malika Mo & The Bands of Soul. Tables were stocked with free school supplies, while other vendors offered items for sale. Community partners such as the Rockville Centre Lions Club and the Rockville Centre Coalition for Youth staffed booths with information and giveaways. Residents from all over came down to celebrate the end-of-the-summer party with the community. Some returning past residents even came to experience the joy amongst old neighbors. “I got an opportunity to meet Pat Morris, our director at the youth center,” said Sal Bush, a past Rockville Centre resident who now lives in Baldwin. “I saw some of the elder parents around here, and a lot of the young people. So I’m very excited about this and hope that it grows.” First-time attendees were just as excited as the returning crowd for this year’s celebration. Sasha Welcome and her sixyear-old son Kingston came from Linden-

Jahmela Jacobson, president of Jahmela Child Advocate, dressed to impress for the end-of-the-summer celebration. hurst to experience the fun. Her son was most excited for the bouncy houses. “This is actually my first time here. My son went to the camp for summer, and then they told us about the event for today,” said Welcome. “We’re looking to just enjoy the day and it’s beautiful weather.” Village board members were also in attendance this year including Mayor Francis X. Murray and Deputy Mayor Kathy Baxley. “The whole community comes out. They get together, they have a great time, celebrating the Martin Luther King center,” said Murray. “Rockville Centre is a wonderful community and this is part of it, and I love being here.” Now in its 24th year, West End Community Day remains a Rockville Centre tradition — part block party, part youth program send-off and always a celebration of the people who call the village home.

Malika Morris, singer of Malika-Mo & The Band of Soul, gave a performance for all attendees to enjoy. The community cherished the time they had together for this year’s block party event.

Crime watCh

August 28, 2025 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

harassment On Aug. 20, an Old Mill Court resident reported receiving threatening texts from an acquaintance.

UnUsUal inCident On Aug. 18, a Richmond Road resident reported that an unknown person altered a bank check that was sent through the U.S. Mail. On Aug. 19, an Andover Road resident reported that an unknown person altered a bank check that was sent through the U.S. Mail. On Aug. 20, an Eton Road resident reported that an unknown person altered a bank check that was sent through the U.S. Mail. On Aug. 20, an employee of Summit Health Orthopedics reported they were the victim of a phone scam. On Aug. 22, a Sherman Avenue resident reported that an unknown person made unauthorized transactions using his Optimum account and credit card.

arrest On Aug. 18, Stephen J. Sacchi, 38, of Rockville Centre, was arrested and

charged with Assault and Menacing after an investigation on Banks Avenue. On Aug. 23, Gerald Cuthbert, age 21, of Old Mill Court, Rockville Centre, was arrested and charged with Criminal Mischief in the Fourth Degree after an investigation on Old Mill Court.

noteworthy events On Aug. 20, our Traffic Enforcement Unit conducted a targeted commercial vehicle inspection detail. Six trucks over the weight of 10,000 lbs. were inspected and a total of 38 traffic tickets were issued. Four of the vehicles inspected were taken out of service due to serious violations that made them dangerously unsafe to be operated on the roadway. This past week, our Traffic Enforcement Unit participated in the New York State Police Traffic Services Grant, funded by New York State. During this, 23 traffic tickets were issued, two vehicles were impounded for being operated with suspended registrations, and two motorists were charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle for driving with a suspended driver’s license.

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.

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MAIN PHONE: (516) 569-4000 ■ WEB SITE: www.liherald.com/rockvillecentre ■ E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: rvceditor@liherald.com ■ EDITORIAl DEPARTMENT: Ext. 205 E-mail: rvceditor@liherald.com ■ SUBSCRIPTIONS: Press ”7” E-mail: circ@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4942 ■ ClASSIFIED ADVERTISING: Ext. 286 E-mail: ereynolds@liherald.com Fax: (516) 622-7460 ■ DISPlAY ADVERTISING: Ext. 249 E-mail: rglickman@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4643 ■ PUBlIC NOTICES: Ext. 232 E-mail: legalnotices@liherald.com The Rockville Centre Herald USPS 74660, is published every Thursday by Richner Communications, Inc., 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Periodicals postage paid at Garden City, NY 11530 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster send address changes to Rockville Centre Herald, 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Newsstand Price: $1. Annual Subscription Rates, $12.50 per quarter auto-pay or $60 one-time payment within Nassau County or $76 outside of Nassau County. Copyright © 2025 Richner Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — August 28, 2025

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HERALD SPORTS Hofstra seeks to regain CAA supremacy By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com

Hofstra women’s soccer kicked off the 2025 season on Aug. 14 with a flair for the dramatic that served as springboard for the program’s best start in four years. In muggy conditions that caused multiple players to go down with cramps, the Pride appeared headed for an opening night draw before sophomore forward Hailey Moschitta headed in a feed from Maggie Peterson with 5.6 seconds remaining for a 2-1 victory against St. Joseph’s (Pa.). It marked the latest game-winning goal in the program’s 32-year history. “We were just knocking on the door all day,” said 20th-year Hofstra women’s soccer head coach Simon Riddiough of the Monmouth match in which the Pride outshot the Hawks 22-2. “We’ve got enough individual talent on this team that we can make a big play at any time.” Momentum from the St. Joseph’s victory carried over into a commanding 3-0 victory against Quinnipac back home at Captains Field on Aug. 17. Hofstra (3-1) then knocked off Columbia 2-1 last Friday for the program’s first 3-0 start since 2021 with its unbeaten streak ended in a a 4-0 setback at Yale on Sunday. The Pride are looking to reach the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2022 with a veteran squad of 19 returning players fueled for a deep postseason run after falling to Monmouth in the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) semifinals for a second straight season. Hofstra captured five CAA titles in six seasons from 2017 to 2022. The many returners include last year’s leading scorer Millie Davies, who tallied seven goals and five assists. The senior midfielder from Manchester, England was an All-CAA selection the last two seasons and Riddiough said she has a solid chance to play professionally after college. The offense also returned graduate forward Mathilde Braithwaite, a Third Team All-CAA selection who had five goals as a senior. Senior midfielders Thorhildur Thorhallsdottir and Aimee Hodgson are also back on the pitch after tallying points last fall. Hofstra got a big scoring boost with the addition of Manon Lebargy, a Middle Tennessee State transfer who was C-USA Midfielder of the Year last season after scoring 13 goals with four assists. “She is a fantastic addition,” said Riddiough of Lebardy, who scored two goals in the Quinipac

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victory. “She brings a tremendous amount of energy that resonates with the whole team.” Peterson and Moschitta, who connected on the winning goal in the opening match, arew also expected to play an integral part of the offense this season. Alexia Des Croisselles, a Quebec native and Jacksonville State transfer, has also been involved with the offense early on registering a key goal in the Columbia victory. The defense has veteran leadership from graduate students Gabriella Marte and Olivia Pearse, a former standout at Seaford High School. Sasha McTiffin and Emma Johnson also bring plenty of experience in the backline. Pearse, who missed most of last season with an injury, has also displayed offensive ability this season on set pieces with two goals including the tying tally against St. Joe’s. “She’s a tremendous athlete,” Riddiough said. “She brings a lot of physicality and is a huge threat on set piece situations.” The depth of Hofstra’s defense was stung in the opening match when senior defender Ava Lanfredi went down with a high ankle sprain injury. The first-year starter from East Greenwich, R.I. is expected to miss a few weeks and Riddiough hopes she can return for when the heart of the CAA schedule commences. Sophomore goalie Lily Bailey has started in net this season after transferring from Morehead State where she recorded five shutouts as a freshman. Graduate student Carly Travers, a former URI and Eastport South Manor High School keeper, is a capable backup in net. Hofstra will look to continue its solid start to the 2025 campaign with home matches this Thursday against Fairleigh Dickinson at 7 p.m. and Sept. 6 versus Loyola (Md.) at 1 p.m. The Pride conclude the non-league schedule on Sept. 14 at home against Dartmouth before hosting Elon in the CAA opener on Sept. 18. The Pride was picked by CAA coaches to finish third in the conference’s north division behind defending champion Stony Brook and runner-up Monmouth. The top three finishers in the division, which also comprises Drexel, Northeastern and Towson, will qualify for the six-team CAA Tournament and a chance to earn an automatic bid into the NCAA Tournament. “If we stay healthy I think we can make a really good push for it,” said Riddiough, who has guided Hofstra to nine NCAA tournaments and seven CAA titles in his two decades leading the sideline.

Courtesy Hofstra Athletics Communications

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Prices, stalled growth fuel housing crisis

State pushes pro-development programs as Long Island towns weigh costs and community impacts By AINSLEY MARTINEZ, CHARLES SHAW & ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN of Herald Community Newspapers

Third in a series about housing on Long Island. Long Island’s housing crisis is more than bricks and mortar — it’s a battleground where zoning, politics and community identity collide. At its root, the issue is a chronic lack of supply, Richard Murdocco, a land use columnist and lecturer at Stony Brook University, says. “Our housing supply has always been inadequate,” Murdocco said. “The pandemic only amplified the problem.” Murdocco said that zoning laws, while often criticized, generally serve a purpose by preventing overbuilding and protecting the environment, including Long Island’s sole-source aquifer. Still, he noted that some restrictions could be updated to allow for more diverse housing types, adding, “Planning is about the balance of economic and social development.” Many Long Island communities rely heavily on single-family zoning, which limits options for renters and first-time homebuyers. Murdocco pointed to examples like allowing accessory dwelling units and legalizing safe basement apartments as steps that could help ease the affordability problem without contributing to overdevelopment. Vision Long Island, a Northportbased nonprofit, promotes Smart Growth planning by working with residents and local leaders to revitalize downtowns, encourage mixed-use development and build transit-oriented housing. Its director, Erik Alexander, said these efforts have produced more than 18,000 units near public transit in 45 communities over two decades, with over 60 downtowns completing visioning or master plans. “The balance comes from the planning — not from us imposing our will,” Alexander noted. “When regional authorities do that, it backfires.” He pointed to Matinecock Court in East Northport — a 146-unit affordable housing project proposed in the 1970s but delayed for decades by lawsuits, opposition and zoning hurdles — as emblematic of Long Island’s housing struggles. Construction finally began in 2021, and as it nears completion, advocates see it both as a symbol of resistance to affordable housing and a hardwon step forward. Alexander said the barriers extend beyond zoning or community opposition to include economics and funding. “Affordability is largely a function of subsidy,” he said, “and Long Island doesn’t get its fair share.” Alexander noted that although Long Island accounts for 15 percent of New

York’s population and contributes over 2 percent in taxes, it receives only about 3 percent of the state’s affordable housing funds. “People want walkable downtowns, community, affordability, safety,” he said. “We can have all of that, but it has to come from within.” Vision Long Island also collaborates with the Long Island Housing Partnership, the region’s oldest affordable housing organization. Since 1988, President Peter Elkowitz has led its mission to preserve affordability while respecting Long Island’s suburban character. Their efforts focus on accessory dwelling units, targeted zoning reforms, and large-scale redevelopment designed to fit into existing communities. Long Island’s complex governance — two counties, 13 townships and 95 villages — adds hurdles, with overlapping approvals from school districts, health departments, and sewer authorities slowing progress, Elkowitz said. “We are inundated with different levels of government that also have overlapping responsibilities,” he said. Programs like down payment assistance, offered through county and town governments, remain key to making homeownership more accessible. Accessory dwelling units, also known as ADUs — small units within or beside singlefamily homes — are also growing in popularity, helping homeowners offset taxes and support multigenerational living, the Long Island Housing Partnership’s executive vice president, James Britz, said. “You’re renovating a single-family home, you’re not creating density in those cases,” Britz said. ADUs have been implemented in several Suffolk towns, including Huntington, Southold, Brookhaven, and soon Riverhead and Islip, while new developments are incorporating them from the start. A Bellport project will add 32 single-family homes with ADUs, and in Bay Shore, a multi-phase revitalization replaced blighted blocks with 118 new homes, sparking further investment and transforming the neighborhood. Advocates stress that there’s no onesize-fits-all solution, but sharing successes, prioritizing quality design and engaging communities early can build support, Elkowitz said. “If you do it right and you include the community, and you include something aesthetically pleasing and creative, the community usually gets behind you,” he said.

State efforts to provide affordable housing have faced backlash on L.I. To address the state’s housing shortage, Gov. Kathy Hochul proposed the New York Housing Compact, which aimed to build 800,000 homes over the

Herald file/Courtesy Town of Hempstead

Then Hempstead Supervisor Don Clavin, center right, joined by other Long Island officials in 2023, opposed Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Housing Compact. next decade. The plan, proposed for the 2024 fiscal year Executive Budget, included statewide zoning mandates requiring suburban towns to allow higher-density development near transit. The initiative was intended to address New York’s housing shortage: 1.2 million jobs had been added over the previous decade, but only 400,000 homes had been built. In that time, rents had risen 60 percent, and home prices 50 to 80 percent. According to the governor’s office, restrictive zoning, red tape and lengthy approvals had made building new housing more difficult. “The New York Housing Compact is a comprehensive plan to spur the changes needed to create more housing, meet rising demand, and make our state a more equitable, stable, and affordable place to live,” Hochul stated in a news release. The initiative faced strong opposition throughout the state, with over 200 elected officials in both parties voicing their opposition, according to Alexander. “It was completely out of touch — designed to help New York City developers build more cheaply out here,” he said. Long Island elected officials argued that the compact would strip local control over zoning. In March 2023, a month before the 2024 state budget deadline, local leaders — including former Town of Hempstead Supervisor Don Clavin — gathered at the Capitol in Albany, promoting a petition signed by more than 20,000 residents against the initiative. “Removing the ability for local municipalities to oversee their housing development is wrong,” Clavin said, “and that’s why we brought a collective voice from all over New York state to Albany.” State Sen. Steve Rhoads called the housing plan “reckless and irresponsi-

ble,” saying residents should have a say in their communities. “Allow those of us who actually know Long Island, the streets of Syracuse or Buffalo, to determine what we are going to do with respect to our own jurisdictions and housing,” Rhoads said. According to reports, Hochul’s housing compact was pulled from the 2024 state budget after receiving little legislative support, but the state has made progress in expanding affordable housing. In February, the State Senate advanced a package of affordable housing bills aimed at helping homeowners and renters, including a home savings program for first-time buyers, free counseling and legal services through the Homeownership Protection Program, and a two-year look-back for senior and disability rent increase exemptions. The bills are currently awaiting action in the Assembly.

Pro-Housing Community Program sees strong support in Suffolk, but not Nassau After the Housing Compact plan collapsed, Hochul signed Executive Order 30 in July 2023, creating the Pro-Housing Communities program, which provides up to $650 million annually to communities that commit to modestly increasing housing supply. To date, over 340 communities have been certified. “There’s only one solution to New York’s housing affordability crisis: we’ve got to build more housing,” Hochul said in a statement. “The ProHousing Communities initiative is delivering the incentives communities are looking for, and this latest round of grant funding will make a real difference in every region of New York.” Downstate municipalities can earn ConTInueD on neXT paGe

State incentives feed local development fears Pro-Housing Community certification by showing 1 percent housing growth in the past year or 3 percent over the past three years, or by committing to future development through a Pro-Housing Resolution. Localities must earn Pro-Housing Communities certification to access key discretionary funding programs, which includes the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, the NY Forward program, the Long Island Investment Fund, and the Public Transportation Modernization Enhancement Program. Suffolk leads Nassau in Pro-Housing certifications and letters of intent, reflecting a regional shift toward broader policy acceptance. A Herald analysis, which accounts for land mass and acreage, shows that about 58 percent of Suffolk communities are certified or have submitted a letter of intent, compared to roughly 13 percent in Nassau. Although several municipalities in the Town of Hempstead — such as Valley Stream and Freeport — are certified as Pro-Housing Communities, the town itself is not and has no plans to seek certification. The Village of Hempstead, however, recently earned certification, as development began on two buildings by Conifer-LeChase Construction with 258 affordable units, plus a 96-unit apartment complex on Bedell Street, half reserved for veterans, making it eligible for a $10 million Downtown Revitaliza-

Illustration by Ainsley Martinez

Suffolk leads nassau in Pro-Housing certifications, with about 58 percent of communities participating versus 13 percent, signaling broader regional acceptance in Suffolk. tion Initiative grant. In 2019, the state selected the township to receive a $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative award for Baldwin. Its assets — including the Long Island Rail Road, strategic downtown investments, and infrastructure improvements — positioned it as an ideal candidate with a head start on the process. “Currently, two housing projects contained within the DRI are underway in Baldwin, with another two projects in the planning phase, and another transit-

oriented development is approaching completion in West Hempstead,” Brian Devine, the Town of Hempstead’s director of communications, said. The town’s efforts to address affordable housing didn’t start with Baldwin. The Archstone Westbury project, which opened in 2006 at Meadowbrook Crossing, provided 396 units. According to Devine, it was the first Long Island project with an affordable housing component, with 20 percent of units designated as affordable and 10 percent specifically for residents ages 62 and older.

Except for the Village of Farmingdale, the Town of Oyster Bay is also not part of the Pro-Housing Community program. Public Information Officer Brian Nevin said that such programs come with strings attached, pressuring municipalities to meet “unrealistic growth quotas” that could strain infrastructure, schools and public safety while raising taxes for current homeowners. “The Town of Oyster Bay has consistently opposed Albany’s one-size-fits-all housing mandates,” Nevin said in an emailed statement, “which fail to recognize the unique character and alreadydeveloped nature of our suburban communities like ours.” Nevin added that the town is committed to development that balances growth with preserving suburban quality of life. Nearly 500 residential units are underway in Hicksville, including mixed-use and transit-oriented projects. The town, he said, is encouraging the state to remove “unrealistic mandates” and return to the original Downtown Revitalization Initiative, which has proven successful in Hicksville, Westbury and other nearby communities. “Our priority is to promote affordable and attainable housing options in a way that protects taxpayers and maintains the character of our neighborhoods,” Nevin said, “without ceding local control to Albany bureaucrats.”

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August 28, 2025 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

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David and Lisa Rosenthal brought their 15-month-old son Dawson to enjoy dinner at the this year’s Music on the Green performace by Two Euros.

Summer nights shine on the village green Residents from Rockville Centre and beyond filled the Village Green on Maple Avenue last Thursday for a memorable evening of live music by local duo Two Euros. Families, friends and neighbors arrived with lawn chairs and blankets in tow, ready to relax under the stars and enjoy the final weeks of summer. The concert, part of the “Music on the Green” series, featured Two Euros, a duo made up of Paul Livanos on guitar and Jimmy Moongamakal on vocals. The group performed a dynamic mix of classic rock and alternative favorites. Their energetic set struck just the right chord, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere that resonated with the crowd. The event was organized by Deputy Mayor Kathy Baxley, who launched the concert series about seven years ago with the goal of fostering community spirit through live music. Her vision was to create a casual, inclusive space where residents could unwind and connect with one another. Since its inception, Music on the Green has grown into a cherished seasonal tradition in Rockville Centre, drawing both longtime locals and new residents. The series not only highlights local talent like Two Euros but also celebrates the unifying power of music across generations and backgrounds. Village officials also extended thanks to the Department of Public Works and the Electric Department for their behind-the-scenes efforts to ensure the event ran smoothly. Although summer is winding down, any local artists interested in performing at future concerts can reach out to the Mayor’s office at (516) 678-9264. –Kelsie Radziski

Angela McNulty and Rose Gebbia enjoyed snacks while listening to the show.

Jimmy Moongamakal, left, and Paul Livanos performed a dynamic mix of classic rock and alternative favorites.

Two Euros performers Jimmy Moongamakal, left, and Paul Livanos warmed up before the concert.

People from Rockville Centre and surrounding towns came out to enjoy the lively music and get together with friends and neighbors.

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Concerned about impact of Medicaid cuts By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

As they discussed what are considered to be the harmful impacts of Medicaid cuts included in the Republican tax bill signed into law last month, U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen and Dr. Jeffrey L. Reynolds toured THRIVE Nassau in Westbury on Aug. 18. Reynolds is CEO of the Family and Children’s Association Long Island, a nonprofit that offers assistance to Long Island’s most vulnerable residents, with help in areas such as substance abuse, youth services and mental health. “We really wanted to make sure that people know about the really devastating impact the big, not beautiful, bill is going to have on our community — not just those in need, but all across our community, the threat to health insurance,” said Gillen, who also met with THRIVE’s staff and clients. “So many people, 1.5 million New Yorkers, are going to lose their health insurance.” THRIVE Nassau, created in 2019 by the Family and Children’s Association, provides a safe and supportive environment for patients’ recovery from addictions such as alcohol, drugs and gambling. THRIVE, which stands for transformation, healing, recovery, inspiration, validation and empower ment, offers interactive educational programs, peer-based support and more.

Courtesy Congresswoman Laura Gillen’s office

Dr. Jeffrey L. Reynolds, CEO of the Family and Children’s Association Long Island, and U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen discussed the impact of Medicaid cuts on Long Islanders. Concerns have risen as programs like it are now at risk of losing their funding. THRIVE is state-funded will not be immediately impacted, but others potentially will. At a time when similar programs began to see hope for the future, Reynolds said it was taken away by political changes in Washington. “We are heartened by the Long Island delegation’s commitment to fight against these potential cuts to make sure that the

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by the Family and Children’s Association would have provided an integrated clinic with support for substance use, mental health care and some primary care as well. But the future of Medicaid coverage and federal grants for next year and 2027 is currently unclear, so the project was canceled. THRIVE is far from the only program in Nassau County concer ned about the future not only for their prog rams, but their patients as well. Among the others is Confide Counseling Center, in Rockville Centre, which offers a substance abuse outpatient program staffed with addiction specialists, social workers and more. “We hope it’s not to the point where benefits are removed from patients to access the services provided,” Confide told the Herald. The concer ns among nonprofits focus not only on coverage for their patients, but potential cuts to their grant funding. Without that funding, programs like THRIVE wouldn’t be able to treat patients regardless of the status of their health insurance coverage. Some programs and services will be able to continue operating as planned. Integrity Treatment Partners, in Baldwin, is not at risk of losing funding, and there is currently no threat to its patients’ coverage for drug and alcohol treatment, according to partner Josh Goldfeder.

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August 28, 2025 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

Scianablo challenges Ferretti’s appointment cshaw@liherald.com

Charles Shaw/Herald

Joe Scianablo, the Democratic candidate for Hempstead town supervisor, with supporters outside Nassau County Supreme Court on Monday after filing a lawsuit challenging John Ferretti’s appointment to the post. Public Officers Law, which requires 24 hours’ public notice for resolutions scheduled at meetings. Attorney Josh Kelner, who is representing Scianablo in the lawsuit, stated in a news release that the violations are “clear-cut.” “The Public Officers Law is explicit: public bodies must give notice so that citizens can make their voices heard before major decisions are made,” Kelner said. “The Town of Hempstead’s failure to comply with this requirement constitutes a clear violation of the statute.”

Ferretti’s appointment, Scianablo contends, was prearranged, and Ferretti acknowledged that both his and Clavin’s resignations were planned days in advance. The official meeting agenda for Aug. 5 omitted the resignation and appointment, but quietly transferred Clavin’s salary to fund Ferretti’s new role. In a statement emailed to the Herald, Brian Devine, director of communications for the Town of Hempstead, called the lawsuit a “publicity stunt” and added that the appointment did not

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Joseph Scianablo, the Democratic candidate for Hempstead town supervisor, filed a lawsuit in Nassau County Supreme Court on Monday, challenging the appointment earlier this month of his Republican opponent, John Ferretti, calling it an illegal power grab that gives Ferretti, already a Nassau County legislator, the advantages of incumbency. Town officials, however, defended the appointment, saying it was made in full accordance with the law. Scianablo, a Garden City resident, sought to contest what he described as a GOP power grab and overturn Ferretti’s appointment. “What happened the other day in the Town of Hempstead was not democracy, it was political theater,” Scianablo said. “The script was written well in advance, the stage was set, but the taxpayers were locked out of the room.” Scianablo appeared with supporters outside the courthouse, nearly three weeks after Ferretti’s appointment on Aug. 5, the same day Supervisor Don Clavin resigned. Ferretti, of Levittown, was sworn in as interim supervisor. As a county lawmaker, he represented Levittown, Bethpage, North Massapequa, and parts of Farmingdale. Scianablo’s lawsuit alle ges that Republican officials violated the state’s

break any laws. “Supervisor Ferretti’s appointment was made in complete accordance with the law,” Devine wrote. “Scianablo even acknowledged this point when he announced his backing for legislation to amend the law with regard to local government succession of officials. This is a silly and disingenuous maneuver that will cost taxpayers money as a result of Scianablo’s frivolous lawsuit.” In June, Scianablo proposed an ethics-reform bill aimed at banning the practice of appointing town supervisors without a public election. In a longstanding pattern in the Town of Hempstead, six out of the last 10 supervisors, according to Democrats, were appointed rather than elected, often behind closed doors. Scianablo’s bill would prohibit midter m appointments to the town supervisor position and require a special election instead, ensuring, he has said, that residents — not political insiders — choose who leads the town. Scianablo, a veteran of the Marines and a former New York City police officer, argued that Ferretti’s appointment gives him the advantages of incumbency, including name recognition through taxpayer-funded mailers, public signage, media coverage and appearances at town events. “This is not democracy,” Scianablo said. “This is rigging the game on the taxpayers’ dime.”

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — August 28, 2025

By CHARLES SHAW

Over 40 arrested in county gang crackdown By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com

Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald

County Executive Bruce Blakeman with a weapon obtained during a gang-related arrest, at a news conference on Aug. 19. playing Whac-a-Mole. You poke your head up, we’re going to knock it back down. “We promised in the beginning that we were going to go after the worst of the worst,” he added. “You’re looking at it on the screen, that is the worst of the worst — and we’re not done yet.” The team was formed quickly after a home invasion and shooting on Aug. 9, according to Ryder, which was followed

by a stabbing that night and another shooting on Aug. 12, involving members of MS-13 and the 18th Street gang. Among the incidents was an attack and attempted robbery in Hempstead’s Kennedy Park, where a young pedestrian was injured with a machete and chased for two miles by four men involved with MS-13, Ryder said. The victim ran from Kennedy Park to Roosevelt, where he evaded the men.

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Suspects are now being held in various jails and ICE detention facilities. Half of them are alleged gang members, authorities said. “I am pleased to say that 33 of these offenders are in ICE custody without bond pending removal,” ICE Field Office Director Bryan Flanagan said. “ICE is working diligently to implement the administration’s goals, to clear the backlog of illegal aliens that pose a threat to the security of our communities.” During the arrests, law enforcement recovered hatchets, knives, machetes and a loaded firearm, which were displayed at the news conference, as well as cameras and hand radios. The charges against those taken into custody included home invasion, attempted murder, sex trafficking and other felonies, Blakeman said. “These arrests are a testament to how committed we are in Nassau County to dismantling gangs and their toxic influence in our communities,” Donnelly said. “My office will continue to work closely with Commissioner Ryder and the Police Department to investigate, prosecute and take down criminal organizations that put families at risk. Thanks to the cooperation between agencies, the D.A.’s office was able to bring charges against 13 alleged MS-13 gang members connected with “brutal attacks” at the end of 2024, Donnelly added.

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One of the largest gang takedowns in Nassau County history unfolded from Aug. 13 to Aug. 18, apprehending alleged members of the MS-13, 18th Street and Trinitaros street gangs. County Executive Bruce Blakeman, District Attorney Anne Donnelly and Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder highlighted the more than 40 arrests at a news conference at Nassau County Police Department headquarters on Aug. 19. “We had a very important sweeping pickup of people that were dangerous to our community and the whole region, not just Nassau County,” Blakeman said. “We want to send a clear message that gang activity in Nassau County will not be tolerated. “We in Nassau County are grateful for the federal partnership that we have with ICE, FBI, DEA and other agencies,” he added. “As a result, we are a safer community.” Undercover NCPD officers worked with federal agencies, including Immigration Customs and Enforcement and the FBI, in an intensive multi-day search to arrest the alleged gang members and charge them with a variety of crimes. “In total, we had 42 arrests over the four days,” Ryder said. “This is like

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August 28, 2025 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

New altar, new energy for local church

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — August 28, 2025

Continued from page 1

Photos courtesy Peter Carbonaro

members of troop 332 helped Christian Carbonaro as he began the demolition. for generations and generations after I’m gone, so I can help even more people than are currently here.” The shiny new addition is the first step toward other planned renovations

and renewals in the area, Morris said. “It is a little oasis of quiet beauty just steps from the busy train station,” he said. “We look forward to using it for outdoor worship services and public cel-

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Christian Carbonaro, of oceanside, dedicated his eagle Scout project to his church in rockville Centre. ebrations for generations to come. Christian’s project has been an important first step in our overall plan to renovate the entrance to our parish hall and renew the surrounding gardens.”

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parish improvement projects. After one last approval from the church vestry, Carbonaro started to get his hands dirty, with help from fellow members of Troop 332, who helped with the project from start to finish. “We did our demolition of the old altar in March, and the new altar was put in place in May, and we had a bunch of scouts come out to get rid of the old arch and also fill in the potholes in March,” Carbonaro explained. “And then in June, we were able to start doing the last part, which was painting the outside of the church, which we also had a bunch of scouts come out for.” The project was officially finished in late July, and Morris said it has been a wonderful asset to the church since then. “I think that we can say that this has led to the beautification of a sacred space that exists within the heart of the village,” Morris told the Herald. “The altar is a reminder that the parish garden is not simply a park, but a place for quiet reflection and prayer.” Although the project is finished, it made an impact on Carbonaro — and the Rockville Centre community — that will last for years to come. “It is something that will be used all the time,” Carbonaro said, “and not only that, since it’s this granite altar that’s outside, this is going to be there

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Free games of bowling for Maple Lanes anniversary Maple Family Centers is marking its 65th anniversary with a celebration of fering free bowling g ames and announcing a major fundraising milestone in support of veterans. From Aug. 30 to Sept. 1, bowlers at Maple Lanes RVC, or any of Maple’s other four locations in New York and Florida, will receive every other game free, with the promotion allowing guests to double their play. Participating centers include Maple Lanes RVC, Coram Country Lanes in Coram, Jib Lanes in Flushing, Maple Lanes Countryside in Clearwater and Maple Lanes Lakeland in Lakeland. The anniversary also marks the launch of the company’s “One Small Company, One Million Dollars” campaign, aiming to surpass $1 million in total funds raised for veterans’ causes. Over the past 20 years, Maple Family Centers has raised $900,000 for Bowlers to Veterans Link, the nation’s oldest and largest bowling charity. BVL funds therapeutic programs for veterans and

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directs resources to local services in the communities Maple serves. “We are grateful for the generosity of our team members and customers, who have helped make a positive difference in the lives of countless heroes, and who have helped put us in striking distance to achieve the $1 million milestone in our 65th anniversary year,” John LaSpina, president of Maple Family Centers, said in a news release. Founded in 1960 in Brooklyn by Peter LaSpina Sr., Maple Family Centers has re m a i n e d a f a m i ly - r u n bu s i n e s s through three generations. The company continues to emphasize customer service, affordable pricing and partnerships with local organizations. Maple’s support for veterans began in the aftermath of the Sept. 11 attacks, as the LaSpina family sought to make a lasting impact in honor of the sacrifices made by military service members and first responders.

Own own professional-grade camera Must a DSLR or Mirrorless camera Flexibility to to work work days, evenings and weekends Flexibility evenings and weekends Reliable Transportation transportation Reliable Strong work&ethic, and the ability to meet deadlines Punctuality abilitypunctuality, to meet hard deadlines Ability to to communicate interact with subjects and collaborate with our editorial team. Ability with sources and editorial team

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HERALD

Courtesy Maple Family Centers

Maple Family Centers focuses on fundraising for veterans, and this past June they presented a check for $50,000 to Long Island State Veterans Home after its bowling tournament.

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August 28, 2025 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

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ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — August 28, 2025

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August 28, 2025 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

How are you getting ready to go back to school? Compiled by Herald Staff

Ariana Johnson

Kilian McNichol

I like to do math and I like to do reading and writing, because I learn a lot of words in writing, and I get and I know how to do multiplication, and it makes me really good when I do multiplication.

I’ve spent this summer prepping for the SAT. I took a 16 hour class, studied the workbooks and I am continuing to take practice exams. I’ve also started to set my alarm clock a bit earlier in the mornings to get ready for the first day of classes.

8, Freeport

16, Oceanside

Photo by Mashiat Azmi

Photo by Lauren McNichol

Amanda Prescia

Social worker at Uniondale High School

Max Greenberg 16, Oceanside

I’ve been starting to prepare myself mentally, starting studying up a little bit on the upcoming classes. I’m trying to take it easy, through college applications, and everything coming up. Kepherd Daniel/Herald

Ashley Fernandez 14, Uniondale

I actually know a lot of people here already, so I’m looking forward to talking to more people and doing more things. Photo by Alexia Croll

The biggest thing for every staff member is just to come in with positivity. We shouldn’t come in thinking, ‘Oh, summer’s over.” Our staff members are really good about avoiding that. They come in and welcome everyone with a refreshed attitude. For me, it’s about taking care of myself and getting ready for what the school year looks like. From left: Ashley Fernandez, Amanda Prescia and Abigail Petgraves. Photo by Alexia Croll

STEPPING OUT

The longtime festival returns with another lively tribute to the ‘World’s Greatest Entertainer’ By Iris Wiener

ecause Al Jolson is forever embraced by many as “The World’s Greatest Entertainer,” celebrating him every year has become an unmissable tradition. The Al Jolson Society is ready with the 26th edition of its annual festival, on Sept. 6, when guests will enjoy an exciting day of music, memorabilia and laughs. Jolson once said: “A responsive audience is the best encouragement an actor can have.” It was immediately clear to audiences that there was an incredible amount to which they would want to respond. The star of the ﬁrst talking picture, 1927’s “The Jazz Singer,” Jolson was an eponymous performer famous for his work in vaudeville and musical theater. In fact, there’s a street named after him on Broadway outside of the Winter Garden Theatre, where he sold out nine vaudeville musical revues. This is why Jan Hernstat, the International Al Jolson Society president and founder, feels it’s important to remember his stamp on entertainment as we now know it. “I always tell people that he was the ﬁrst superstar before that phrase was coined,” says Hernstat. “He was an international star at a • Sept. 6, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. • Information and tickets time when there was no available at Jolson.org or real media to promote call Jan Hernstat at what he did. There (516) 678-3524. wasn’t radio and TV. For • Lambrou’s Catering Hall, 4073 Austin Blvd., Island Park somebody to be as big as he was worldwide. At a time when there was nothing to promote yourself, it really talks about your talent. You think of him and the guys who followed him, and there are so few people in the same category. Frank Sinatra. The Beatles. Bing Crosby. Elvis Presley. “This is why I’m celebrating his talent, his singing and his voice. He was an incredible star. I think it’s important for us to remember who he was and what he did.” The word “celebration” is an understatement when considering the many experiences planned for festival guests. One of the highlights is the auction of Jolson items. “We have a lot of good stuff up for auction that we haven’t had in the past,” Hernstat says. “People donated collections that go back 60 or 70 years. If someone comes as a collector, they would really enjoy it!” The schedule includes a number of unique performances and a luncheon buffet. Eddie Cantor’s grandson, Brian Gari, will be on hand to share stories and greet lucky attendees. Ed Greenbaum will once again be sharing his audio rarities. This year’s festival is serving up unique comedy with new acts from some old favorites. Noah Diamond demonstrates the iconic humor of Groucho Marx with

‘Well my heart went boom…’

Courtesy Jan Hernstat

Tony B gives a rousing rendition of the Jolson standards, an annual festival performance not to be missed.

a re-creation of a radio program the comedian did with Jolson. The unforgettable Bob Greenberg and Jonathan Smith (who have previously graced the stage as Laurel & Hardy) change gears this year and take on Abbott & Costello (expect to hear a rendition of “Who’s On First?”). Jeff Greenberg is returning with his delightful comedy. Plus, for the first time, guests will enjoy Jack West’s comedic stylings as he takes on the great Jack Benny. No Al Jolson Festival is complete without the main event, the musical stylings of Tony Babino. Known as “The Heart of Al Jolson,” Babino performs an entire concert tribute to Jolson, including hits “My Mammy” and “Swanee.” “He gets better every year,” says Hernstat of Babino. “One of the main reasons that we can continue to do things like this is because we have a Courtesy Jan Hernstat guy like Tony who is so talented and Al Jolson in a scene from his fi lm “The Singing Kid” sounds so much like Jolson. It’s a joy. in 1936. It was his final lead role in a musical film. Nobody else does what he does like he does it.” A part of what makes the full-day festival so special is that enthusiasts from all over come together to reflect on their shared passion. Hernstat says guests will be traveling from Philadelphia, New Jersey and even Kansas City to be in a room of likeminded individuals who appreciate Jolson’s magic. “Where can you go nowadays to see the old-time entertainers recreated?” asks Hernstat, as he considers the unique programming planned for the day. “[For us Long Islanders] it’s right in our backyard.” Hernstat hopes that through the work of the Al Jolson Society, members will be able to continue to reach out to Jolson fans who will help keep his legacy alive. “It’s harder and harder to find those people out there who are true Jolson fans. We’re not looking to convert anyone to become a Jolson fan; we just want to find the ones out there who are and let them know that they have this outlet for their enjoyment.”

Courtesy Iris Wiener

The festival “gang” includes, from left, Jeff Greenberg, Richard Halpern, Al Jolson Society President Jan Hernstat, vocalist Tony Babino, and Bob Greenberg.

Experience Beatlemania again when 1964 The Tribute brings the early 1960s Fab Four back to life. Hailed by Rolling Stone as “the best Beatles tribute on earth,” the band channels the pre-Sgt. Pepper era with uncanny authenticity — from period instruments and vintage suits to spot-on vocals and playful onstage banter. This meticulous re-creation captures the energy and joy of The Beatles’ early live performances, offering a rare chance to feel what it was like when Beatlemania swept the globe.“1964” captures the quintessential moment in history, when The Beatles actually played before a live audience. For those that never saw The Beatles live and always wanted to know what it must have been like, this may be as close as anyone could possibly get — to feel the magic.

Friday, Aug. 28, 8 p.m. $82, $66.25, $54.75, $44.25, $31.25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Brave Strangers Get ready to rock when Brave Strangers hits the stage with the music of Bob Seger. Founded by the passionate and talented Tony Paulino, this powerhouse 14-piece group delivers an authentic concert experience that captures the ﬁre, soul, and storytelling that made Seger a rock legend. From “Night Moves” to “Turn the Page” to “Old Time Rock & Roll,” Brave Strangers takes audiences on a high-energy ride through the songs that deﬁned a generation — and continue to win new fans today. With a three-piece female chorus line known as the Segerettes, the Runaway Train horn section, and a blistering eight-piece core band, their sound is as big and bold as the Motor City itself. If you’ve seen Seger live, you know the thrill. If you haven’t, this is the next best thing.

Friday, Sept. 5, 7:30 p.m. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org.

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — August 28, 2025

Forever in tune with

August 28, 2025 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD Exhibit AUG On Nassau County

CALENDAR • Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor • Time: 3 p.m. • Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “At Play,” surveys artists’ perennial fascination with entertainment in all forms. Framing this topic between the nineteenth century Belle Époque and today, the exhibit includes works by Pablo Picasso, Reginald Marsh, Everett Shinn, and Max Beckmann among many others. The works are gathered to represent a wide range of expressions, from entertainmentrelated activities to the fascinating personalities involved. It encompasses dance, music, theater, movies, circus, boating, and beach scenes, along with horseracing and various sports, both active and passive Also featured are archival items from The Metropolitan Opera and the New York Philharmonic, including costumes by Marc Chagall for Die Zauberflöte, vintage fashion items by such designers as Alfred Shaheen, and iconic costumes from the Folies-Bergère in Paris. On view until Nov. 9. • Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor • Time: Ongoing • Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

AUG Rock on at the park

Get in the groove with Led Zeppelin tribute band Misty Mountain and The Who tribute band Who’s Next at Eisenhower Park. • Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow • Time: 7 p.m. • Contact: nassaucountyny.gov

Summertime AUG tunes

Eisenhower Park welcomes Puerto Rican merengue singer Elvis Crespo.

• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow • Time: 7 p.m. • Contact: nassaucountyny.gov

Farmers AUG Market

Shop at the Rockville Centre Farmers Market, run by the Long Island Growers Market, every Sunday until Dec. 21. • Where: 510 Sunrise Highway, across from Rockville Centre GMC dealer • Time: 7 a.m.-noon • Contact: Ethel Terry at (631) 466-8939

SEP

Village Board of Trustees Meeting

The Village Board welcomes residents to their next meeting,

• Where: Village Hall, 1 College Place • Time: 7 p.m. • Contact: (516) 678-9300

SEP

Maren Morris

Maren Morris brings “The Dreamsicle Tour” to the Paramount stage with special guest Jade LeMac. Morris has broken boundaries, smashed records and affirmed herself as a dynamic vocalist, prolific songwriter and showstopping performer on her own terms. Among numerous accolades, she has garnered a Grammy, five ACM Awards, five CMA Awards, and three Billboard Music Awards. She has earned dozens of multi platinum and gold certifications worldwide and tallied billions of streams. Her catalog encompasses a trio of acclaimed albums, namely Hero (2016), Girl (2019), and Humble Quest (2022). Speaking to her versatility, she’s the rare force of nature equally suited to collaborating with Zedd on the 6x-platinum “The Middle” or duetting with everyone from Taylor Swift, Stevie Nicks and Sheryl Crow to Teddy Swims, Hozier, and Jessie Murph. Morris has sold out tours on multiple continents. Along the way, she also co-founded The Highwomen with Brandi Carlile, Natalie Hemby, and Amanda Shires. In September 2023, Maren shared The Bridge, an EP featuring “The Tree” and “Get the Hell Out of Here,” and followed with a cover • Where: The Paramount, 370 of Billy Idol’s classic track “Dancing With Myself” in February 2024. She entered a bold new New York Ave., Huntington era with the release of her Intermission EP in August, which features “Cut!” and the MUNA- • Time: 7:30 p.m. produced and playful single “Push Me Over.” Maren promises to be unapologetically herself • Contact: ticketmaster.com — and it shows in this music and in what is next to come. $114.25, $92, $71.75, $65.25. or paramountny.com

Pterodactyl Flyers

Bring the family to Long Island Children’s Museum to find about Pterodactyls, which are not classified as dinosaurs. Learn about these flying reptiles, make a flying creature and watch it soar in our wind tube at the drop-in program. For ages 3+. • Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

Inc. (formally the Rockville Centre Choral Society) for auditions and rehearsals, Wednesdays. All voices are welcome. Members are from Queens, Nassau and Suffolk counties and are expanding ever year since 1984. • Where: St. James UMC, 11 St. James Place, Lynbrook • Time: 7:30 p.m. • Contact: licchorus@gmail. com or call (516) 599-5705

SEP

Mary Ruchalski Foundation Tree Lighting

The village tree lighting kicks off Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month for RVC.

• Where: RVC Village Hall, 1 College Place • Time: 7 p.m. • Contact: themaryruchalskifoundation@ gmail.com

SEP

Calling all singers

A new season and a new name. Join the Long Island Community Chorus,

Rockville Centre BOE meets

The Board of Education holds its next meeting. Stay informed on district issues. • Where: South Side High School 140 Shepherd St. • Contact: (516) 255-8957

SEP

Playing on the Porch

Bands perform on porches, decks, front yards and driveways throughout the village during this free, family-friendly event. • Where: Throughout the village • Time: 3-6 p.m. • Contact: eric@mingomedia. com

Storybook Stroll

Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for the next storybook adventure. Stroll the gardens and enjoy a telling of Allison Sweet Grant’s “Leif and the Fall.” With a take-home craft. For ages 3-5. Storybook Strolls start at the Beech Tree (next to Westbury House), and end at the Thatched Cottage. • Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury • Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m. • Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048

SEP

Art Talk

Join John Grande when he visits Nassau County Museum of Art. The New York-based artist reflects upon modern and contemporary culture with his constructed paintings, sculptures, and murals while carefully utilizing techniques and traditions as far-reaching those of Old Master painters, 19th-century artists to 20th-century advertising and Pop Art. His subjects are diverse, often readily recognizable and at times quite humorous: from glamorous Hollywood stars to the art world itself and the grittier subjects of street art. $20, $15 seniors, $10 students, members free. Limited seating. Registration required.

Civic Association Meeting

Hear current updates on the improvements proposed by the Civic Association. • Where: Rockville Centre Public Library, 221 N Village Ave. • Time: 7-9 p.m. • Contact: rvc.civic@gmail.com

SEP

Antiques Appraisal Day

All items except jewelry are welcome to be brought in for a verbal appraisal by well known appraiser and auctioneer Phil Weiss. All proceeds benefit the Rockville Centre Historical Society and Museum. • Where: Phillips House Museum, 28 Hempstead Ave. • Time: Noon-4 p.m. • Contact: (516) 670-5737

SEP

Blood Drive

Support the St. Agnes Knights of Columbus fall blood drive. Stop by to donate.

• Where: St. Agnes Parish Center, 29 Quealy Place, Rockville Centre • Time: 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. • Contact: (516) 306-9127

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

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August 28, 2025 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

RVC library hosts village’s local heroes Over 100 local children and their families gathered at the Rockville Centre Public Library for the ninth annual Heroes Day, an end-of-summer event celebrating local first responders. Children had the opportunity to explore emergency vehicles, try on firefighter helmets, operate sirens and learn how police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians serve their community. This year’s event on Aug. 15 featured the largest vehicle turnout to date, according to Jen Marino, Head of Youth Services, at the library, including two Rockville Centre Police Department cruisers, two fire trucks and an ambulance. Throughout the morning, volunteers from the Rockville Centre Fire Department and Police Department led interactive tours and demonstrations. Firefighters suited up in their gear to show children how they prepare for emergencies and gave children a chance to use a fire hose. Lieutenant Nick DeLuca and police officer Jillian Sementini represented the department at the event, giving kids the chance to get to know the local police force. The event also aimed to foster positive relationships between children and local first responders. Library organizers emphasized at past events that the low-pressure environment helps make police officers and firefighters more approachable to young attendees.

Courtesy Office of Assemblywoman Judy Griffin

Assemblywoman Judy Griffin, left, Deputy Mayor Kathy Baxley, Mayor Francis X. Murray and Legislator Scott Davis, right, visited the Rockville Centre Public Library for Heroes Day on Aug. 15. Local officials were also in attendance, including Mayor Francis X. Murray, Deputy Mayor Kathy Baxley, Assemblywoman Judy Griffin and Legislator Scott Davis.

Public Notices

LROC1 0828

LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE TO BIDDERS Sealed Bids will be received by the Purchasing Department of the Village of Rockville Centre, One College Place, Rockville Centre, New York for the matter stated below until 11:00 am prevailing time on SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud. The Contract will be awarded as soon thereafter as practicable for: MARLEY COOLING TOWER REMOVAL Bid No. 2509E1(1165) The Contract documents, specifications and plans can be examined on the Village’s website at w w w. r v c . n y. g o v. 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. Potential contractors

are recommended to participate in a site walk through to be completed by September 4, 2025. Please contact Stephen Blom at SBlom@rvcny.us to confirm attendance. Please do not forward bid questions to Stephen Blom. Please contact Lisa Strazzeri in the Purchasing Department via email only at LStrazzeri@rvcny.us with any questions you may have. Questions must be submitted no later than September 4, 2025. 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 split awards between multiple bidders or reject all bids. Purchasing Department Lisa Strazzeri Purchasing Agent (516) 678-9213 155419 PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… To place a notice here call us us at

516-569-4000 x232

or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com

LEGAL NOTICE 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 SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud. The contract will be awarded as soon thereafter as practicable for: 2025 DRAINAGE PROGRAM Bid No. 2509CP1(1164) The contract documents, specifications and plans can be examined on the Village’s website at w w w. r v c n y. g o v. 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 September 4, 2025. 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 155417

Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232

“Rockville Centre’s first responders exemplify the spirit of selfless service, and it is important to create opportunities for families and especially our youth to interact with them and appreciate their efforts,” Davis said. “It was a privilege to join my neighbors as we honored our everyday heroes – each of whom works tirelessly to help and protect all of us in the community.” The event began in 2015 as “Real Heroes Day,” inspired by that year’s superhero-themed summer reading pro-

gram. Librarian Jen Rebmann organized the first event after lear ning about a similar program at another library. Its popularity helped establish Heroes Day as a staple in the library’s annual programming. Now in its ninth year, Heroes Day continues to be one of the most anticipated events of the summer at the Rockville Centre Public Library. –Kelsie Radziski

Courtesy Rockville Centre Public Library

This year had the biggest vehicle turnout, and some kids got the chance to try out a fire hose.

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August 28, 2025 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

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Did we have the right kind of engineer? Q. We were looking at our permit plans and noticed that they were stamped by an engineer we never met. I looked him up, and found out he’s a chemical engineer, but he sealed our plans for the structure. It made me wonder, can a chemical engineer do that, seal plans for structural? I know there are many different types of engineers from reading your column, like electrical engineer, mechanical, plumbing, etc. Can a chemical engineer be responsible for beams in our house? It just seems like the contractor, who took care of everything, just got a guy to stamp the plans. What can you tell us? A. That’s a great question, but you may find the answer confusing, as I did when I posed it to the Engineering Division of the New York State Office of the Professions. This is the board that qualifies professionals through exams, issues licenses and reviews complaints for prosecution. The person I spoke to was articulate and clearly had onte eeper been asked this question before. She stated that the state Office for Engineering Licensing does not license by “discipline.” This means they do not specifically differentiate among mechanical, electrical or plumbing engineers, and they “assume” the person providing the service will use good professional judgment. They also told me that a complaint can be filed if the person has acted in a way that shows they were not qualified or competent to perform the service. This means you would have a structural failure, revealing that the person acted outside the scope of their competency, education and training. In every instance, the answers I got were sprinkled with assumptions that a person would not knowingly practice in a field they were not qualified for. Clearly, or actually unclearly, the answer to your question would seem simple, but nothing I researched, and nobody I spoke to, had a clear answer, leaving it up to the licensed professional to “do the right thing.” I remember designing a large renovation for a family in which the father was an aeronautical engineer who had designed the wing attachments on aircraft. He asked to sit with me while I designed the main beams of his home. I took him, step by step, through the process, and he was very confident at the end that his home was structurally sound. Even though he had the capability to follow the process as an engineer, he didn’t do this kind of work, and admitted that it was different from what he did. It makes me wonder if the chemical engineer even knows his seal was being used for this structural design, or whether it was properly calculated. I often find that structure is over-compensated and more expensive than necessary in these instances. There are even cases of plans bearing the seal of people long deceased, so at least the chemical engineer is still alive to answer your question. Good luck!

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opinions

s many may know, I was raised in a family that was deeply involved in politics and government. My father, Donald DeRiggi, served as mayor of Glen Cove, a finance commissioner, a city councilman and a Nassau County court judge before he retired. For as long as I can remember, he taught us that it was a privilege to be a public servant, and that, even though governance may sometimes be contentious, it was important to govern fairly and in the best interDELiA ests of the people, DeRiGGi-WHiTTon regardless of political affiliation. The three and a half years of the administration of County Executive Bruce Blakeman have therefore been a jarring experience for me. His administration has erected countless roadblocks to shield itself from scrutiny — so much so that my colleagues Scott Davis and Debra Mulé were forced to sue the county executive to secure information about

his armed “militia” — including simple details about how its members are being trained, equipped, supervised and paid. Similarly, Blakeman’s administration has refused to say how the future of the Nassau University Medical Center would be protected. This regional hospital network is an essential safety net for the community, and must not be neglected. To get any answers, we’ve had to resort to using the Freedom of Information Act. It has been such a challenge that, after Matthew Bruderman was fired as the NUMC’s board chairman following the mysterious break-in and alleged theft of sensitive documents from his Centre Island home, we had no other recourse but to call on the FBI to conduct a probe and to demand a criminal investigation. As NUMC’s board spiraled out of control, the hospital’s leadership was accused of taking advantage of the public. After learning this summer that former CEO Meg Ryan was ousted after allegedly giving herself and 12 other employees $1 million in wages and leave payouts they were not entitled to, News-

day revealed that members of the top hospital brass were treating themselves to lobster dinners on the taxpayers’ dime while this essential facility was on the verge of collapse. You might think that Blakeman would rightly condemn such damaging behavior by appointees in such crucial roles, but to date his silence has spoken volumes. His actions have similarly sent a clear message demonstrating a lack of interest in fair, equitable and responsive government. We are continuing to fight for fairness in the distribution of Community Revitalization Program grants, where Blakeman’s partisan bias is obvious. To date, districts represented by Republicans have had a staggering 50 grant requests approved, while districts served by Democratic members have received zero approvals through the normal legislative process. In fact, the only grants we received came after we successfully leveraged our votes for the 2025 capital plan — which required a 13-vote supermajority to pass — to force Blakeman to add funding for 14 CRP grants for first

e doesn’t appear interested in fair, equitable and responsive government.

responders, totaling $1.3 million, into the capital plan bond ordinance. More than 30 Democratic CRPs remain caught in the blockade. Specific to District 11, this includes $350,000 to improve Pascucci Field in Glen Cove, $275,000 for an all-ability playground in Port Washington, $110,000 to upgrade Maccarone Stadium in Glen Cove and $100,000 for a local history center at the Port Washington Library. These funds are not being held up on their merits. Rather, they’re being held up over partisan politics. During my two decades as a public servant and an elected official, I have learned that effective leaders, regardless of political affiliation, must not operate in secrecy. They must not demand political allegiance — and they must not unilaterally shut out opposition voices. To operate in a purely partisan manner, as the Blakeman administration has done for the past three and a half years, betrays the spirit of community service and our duty to fight for the greater good of the people — all of the people. Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, of Glen Cove, represents Nassau County’s 11th Legislative District and is the Legislature’s minority leader.

Finding the car keys in the refrigerator

here comes a time in family life when the balance of responsibility begins to shift. After decades of caring for our infants, toddlers and teens, and launching our children off to careers and relationships — and if we’re lucky, a decade or two, or even three, of joyful independence — we realize that we’re slowing down a bit. The grown children have their own years of freedom before new responsibilities as caregivers arise. Adult children begin to realRAnDi ize that they have KREiss aging parents. Older parents need an occasional hand up. But when to step in, exactly, and how much? Hear me: The critical factor is for kids to offer help without diminishing their parents. When your kids start checking up on you, if they want to do no harm, they best have a light touch and a sense of humor. Recently, one of our grown kids visited. “You’re walking really well, Mom,” he said. OK, I thought; he must have

read an article about older people having mobility issues. However, I am not one. I walk just fine. And fast. And steady on my feet. I let the moment pass. The next day he offered to arrange my pillbox. “What’s to arrange?” I said. I take two pills, and one of them is Vitamin D. On another visit, my daughter examined the house for “fall risks.” Despite her good intentions, I was not going to let her toss the Tabriz rug I personally carried back from Istanbul. There were other moments, like the kids saying, “You already told me that story,” or “Why not leave your car keys in the same place every day so you won’t keep looking for them?” My sonin-law spent at least an hour going through my pantry and tossing anything with an expired date. All of these intrusions come from a place of good intentions, but chuck that. It feels like hovering to me, and patronizing and ageist. I’ll know when I need help, and I won’t hesitate to ask. And yes, I realize this sounds slightly unreasonable. On the other hand, I am very grateful

to be living in a multigenerational family that keeps a watchful eye on us and visits often, even when we aren’t that much fun. We all know that millions of older people don’t have the blessings conferred by caring children. They may not get to go out or eat the right foods or enjoy the support of family and friends. I’m speaking from a point of privilege in that regard. This is tricky emotional terrain on all sides, best negotiated openly and with a light touch. With that in mind, I am ready now for my kids’ next visit/inspection next month. I put my shoes in the fridge and four cans of refried beans in the bathtub. Finding humor in advancing age isn’t always easy. Toward the end of my mother’s life, she lived with us for a few months. She had a helper who took her to the supermarket, where she enjoyed picking up a few things. One day they walked in the front door with a fresh challah bread. “Look at this bread,” my mom beamed. “It’s a beauty.” She forgot she had bought the same bread the day before. But before I could summon the grace required in the moment, I said, “That’s the second

hen your kids start checking up on you, they better have a sense of humor.

bread you bought for tonight.” That was seven years ago, and I can still see the flustered embarrassment on my mother’s face. We might have made a joke of it, but my tone was chiding, and I regret not summoning my better angels. Now that I am in my eighth decade, heaven help the kid who says, “You told me that already” or shows impatience when I can’t find my phone or walks around my house dimming the bright lights. The landscape of older age holds perils for me and some of my fellow boomers who may have replaced hips or knees or failing eyesight or chronic pain. Some of us can remember everything just fine. Some can remember everything, but not right away. Some can’t remember much. Kindness lies in not pointing out the lapses, but listening to a story a second time. When we’re among our own kind (that would be other older people), we make jokes about fading memory and increasing wrinkles. When our kids point out any diminishing capacities, it feels like a rebuke. My advice and wish: Walk more slowly, kids, when you walk alongside us; soon you will be walking in our footsteps. Copyright 2025 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — August 28, 2025

The Blakeman administration governs in secrecy

Herald editorial

Rockville centRe

August 28, 2025 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

HERALD Established 1990 Incorporating The News & Owl of Rockville Centre in 2001 Kelsie RadzisKi Senior Editor alyssa R. GRiffin Reporter RHonda GlicKman Vice President - Sales

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A school year of excitement and uncertainty

s August winds down, another academic year is approaching for Nassau and Suffolk’s 124 school districts. Yellow buses are getting their final inspections, teachers are setting up classrooms, and families are shopping for supplies with that mix of excitement and anxiety that marks the end of summer vacation. But this coming school year carries more uncertainty than usual. Long Island schools are preparing students for a world that seems to shift beneath our feet daily. Kindergartners are beginning their educational journey in schools grappling with fundamental questions about the future of education itself. While 5-yearolds will still learn to read and write, they will also encounter technology that was science fiction just a few years ago. Artificial intelligence is already reshaping how students access information, complete assignments and develop skills. The question isn’t whether AI will transform education — it’s how quickly, and whether our schools can adapt fast enough to harness its power while teaching students to think critically about its limitations. Teachers will learn alongside their students, figuring out when to embrace AI tools and when to insist on traditional methods. Administrators will write policies for technology they don’t yet fully understand. Parents will try to help with homework that involves apps and platforms they’ve never seen. We’re all on this learning curve together, and that’s not something to be embarrassed about — it’s the reality of living through a technological revolution. Perhaps nowhere is this uncertainty more acute than in our middle schools, where students are forming their first serious academic interests and beginning to imagine their futures. These young people will eventually graduate from high school and college into a job

market where artificial intelligence may have eliminated entire career categories while creating others we can’t yet envision. How do we prepare seventh-graders for careers that don’t exist? How do we teach them to value human creativity and critical thinking in an age of machine learning? Long Island’s high schools face an even more complex challenge. They must prepare students for college admissions that increasingly emphasize authentic achievement over test scores, in an environment where the priorities of colleges and universities have become politically charged. The specter of federal education cuts adds another layer of complexity. The proposed elimination of the Department of Education could reshape everything from special education funding to college financial aid. Programs that have supported Long Island students for decades — from Title I funding in our most challenged districts to federal student loans that make college accessible — face an uncertain future. Combined with rapid technological changes, the gap between Long Island’s poorest and most affluent school districts — sometimes right next door to one another — could expand to unthinkable size. We must not lose sight of districts that need resources the most. These potential cuts extend beyond education budgets. Federal research funding that has sustained STEM careers could evaporate. Environmental programs that employ thousands of Long Island residents hang in the balance. Government functions that provide stable middle-class employment may be transformed or eliminated. These challenges are causing real anxiety for families across the Island. Parents wonder whether they’re preparing their children adequately for an unknowable future. Students feel pres-

letters Extremism, too, will affect the world’s future To the Editor: Re Peter King’s column last week, “Isolation, antisemitism will affect the world’s future”: It seems the world has to wait for those who have survived the horrors of war to pass into history before it can be primed for the same mistakes to be made again. Ignorance or agenda rule the day, and people, as ever, are easily led by demagoguery. I find it frightening that neither party practices commonsense, moderate approaches to problems. Whereas once upon a time, the two political parties orbited closely around a center point, those halcyon days are but a dim memory. Nowadays, each party orbits far, far away from a center that I believe is the American character. The answer to our problems will not be

sure to make educational choices without knowing which paths will lead to viable careers. Teachers question whether their expertise remains relevant as technology advances. And all of this is compounded by the new statewide cellphone ban, whose consequences on learning, behavior and social dynamics are nervously anticipated by students, parents and teachers. The anxiety is valid and understandable. Rather than pushing these concerns aside or pretending everything is fine, our communities need to create spaces where families can voice their worries and seek support. School counselors, parent groups and community organizations must be prepared to help families navigate not just academic decisions, but the emotional toll of living with constant uncertainty. Success in this coming year won’t be measured solely in test scores or college acceptance rates, though those remain important. The real measure will be whether our students graduate with the adaptability to thrive amid constant change, the critical thinking skills to navigate an information landscape increasingly shaped by AI, and the resilience to build meaningful careers even as traditional paths disappear. Long Island has faced uncertainty before and emerged stronger. The key has always been acknowledging challenges honestly while focusing on what unites us: Ensuring that every child develops not just knowledge, but wisdom. As classroom doors prepare to open, we must acknowledge that we’re sending our children into uncharted territory. Our job — as parents, educators and community members — is to give them the tools to draw their own maps. School bells are about to ring. The future is speaking a language that we’re all still learning.

opinions

’m extremely fortunate to have a talented group of summer students participating in a program that introduces them to how government functions. they work together as a think tank, researching and discussing the pressing issues of the day. We have plenty of those. We have analyzed the declaration of independence, the 14th amendment’s guarantee of birthright citizenship, and researched President theodore Roosevelt’s beliefs about what it means to be an american. it is no surprise that the students have difCHarLes ferent and opposLaVine ing views. My objective is to collaborate with them to provide a space in which their views can be considered in a meaningful and civil exchange. as part of the program, we attended the Nassau county Legislature’s session on July 28. We met with Minority Leader delia deRiggi-Whitton, Legislators Olena Nicks, seth Koslow and scott davis, and democratic staff. One of my fondest memories of visiting the Legislature was when my friend Norma Gonsalves, then the presiding officer, took time out of her busy day to

speak at length with my students about the importance of civic responsibility and bipartisan relationships. that was truly meaningful to all of us, and an experience none of those students will ever forget. after touring the theodore Roosevelt executive Office Building, the students and i went to the legislative chamber to see democracy in action. What we witnessed, however, left me with cause for concern. When the time for community comment began, Presiding Officer howard Kopel noted that many in the audience were there to speak about immigration. he stated that the Legislature had absolutely nothing to do with that issue. his attitude was dismissive, and sent the message that he had no interest in their statements. We heard several people express their heartfelt concerns about the effect of ice raids on their communities. they spoke of fear for their neighbors and the damage to our economy. Fernanda Mejia spoke with great emotion. her father, Fernando, managed the schmear Bagel & café in Port Washington. although looking for someone else, ice arrested him. another speaker compared what ice is doing to events in Nazi Germany. Kopel became visibly upset, and said

that such comments were out of place. he threatened to remove the speaker. Undeterred and unintimidated, the speaker continued. Kopel then announced that he was suspending the session, stood up and left the chamber, followed by every other Republican legislator. even though the microphone had been turned off, members of the community approached the lectern and continued to speak. in all the years that i have served in public office, i have never seen anyone denied their constitutional right to speak at a government hearing. the First amendment guarantees “the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” New York’s own constitution guarantees free speech and the right to petition government. Kopel had unknowingly set a trap for himself when, at the beginning of the open comment period, he announced that the Republican-dominated Legislature had nothing to do with immigration. he must have forgotten that county executive Bruce Blakeman ordered the county Police department to assist ice. he must have forgotten that Blakeman had stated, “there is no reason to be afraid because they’re only going after people who have committed rapes

ven in the County Legislature, citizens can’t always speak their minds.

Letters found in jackboots, nor will they be discovered in those wearing flowers in their hair, but somewhere in between. RichaRd PeteRs Merrick

‘Hochul’s partisan war’ started in Texas, Jake to the editor: Re assemblyman Jake Blumencranz’s op-ed in the aug. 14-20 issue, “this ain’t texas: We must end hochul’s partisan war,” decrying the push for redistricting in New York: it’s hard to disagree with Mr. Blumencranz’s statement that “voters should choose their representation — not the other way around.” But then what, exactly, should New York do to counter texan efforts to subvert that very principle with their blatant attempt to create more Republican districts so that the house of Representatives represents only one party? We should certainly be above such partisan tactics. But we cannot passively be held to a higher standard while others are pushing us toward one-party rule. this is “hochul’s partisan war”? i suggest that Mr. Blumencranz address his valid concerns to the texas lawmakers. RichaRd schWaRz Bayville

Are those in power aware of seniors’ struggles?

and burglaries.” that statement was certainly cold comfort to Fernanda Mejia, whose father had been in the United states for 20 years, contributed to our economy, provided for his family and committed no crime. the Legislature approves the executive’s budget, and therefore has the inherent authority to reject or reduce his spending requests, and the power to influence his decisions and exercise independent action. Kopel must also have forgotten that the very purpose of having a Legislature is to serve as a check and balance on the executive — in this case, the county executive. as James Madison wrote in Federalist No. 51 in 1788: “the accumulation of all powers, legislative, executive and judicial in the same hands, whether of one, a few, or many, and whether hereditary, self-appointed, or elective, may justly be pronounced the very definition of tyranny.” Matters worsened when Kopel intentionally censored a citizen from speaking her mind. that wasn’t just demeaning and disrespectful; it was un-american. i am proud of our fellow citizens who spoke truth to power, and of the many citizens there to support them. i am also sure that my summer students got to experience democracy in action, something they will never forget. Charles Lavine represents the 13th Assembly District.

Framework by Caroline Opinsky

to the editor: senior citizens like me have had to adapt our purchasing habits, often choosing less expensive alternatives or forgoing some foods, like beef, completely. as reported, the major driver of the rise in the cost of beef is drought. so, what does President trump do? he ends all initiatives that would curtail climate change. that and imposing taxes (tariffs) on the beef we import has made seniors on fixed incomes think twice, not about whether they can afford steak, but hamburger meat. couple that with the deportation of america’s ranch hands and meat-packers, and some seniors are facing food insecurity for the first time. this disregard for senior citizens is apparent in local government, as well. a staggering 12.1 percent increase in hempstead’s tax levy at a time when many seniors are having a hard time brings it to a crisis level. While seniors struggle for sustenance, it is unconscionable that the town spends our tax dollars on raises to undisclosed friends and family and utilizes public funds for partisan campaign mailers. For the town to then hand out t-shirts that prominently list their candidates’ names at senior events shows a pro-

A summer day on the Mediterranean — Tel Aviv, Israel

found insensitivity to their plight. Reminds me of when trump tossed paper towels to hurricane victims in Puerto Rico, underscoring the disconnect between those

in power and the communities they serve. cLaUdia BORecKY President, Bellmore Merrick Democratic Club

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — August 28, 2025

Democracy in action that my students will never forget

WE ARE FUELING A CAUSE: BECAUSE OF THE SUPPORT OF OUR LOYAL CUSTOMERS, WE ARE PROUD TO MAKE A DONATION OF $2000 TO THE TUNNEL TO TOWERS FOUNDATION! TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

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August 28, 2025 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD