Rockville Centre Herald 11-13-2025

ROCKVILLE CENTRE

HERALD

Erik Lee/Herald

Back-to-back county titles for Cyclones

South Side High School’s girls’ volleyball team repeated as Nassau Class A champs last Saturday with a straight-set victory over Plainedge. Story, more photos, Page 6.

mptrg.com/heraldnote or call 516.715.1266

Historical Society launches new survey

By KElSIE RADZISKI

kradziski@liherald.com

The Rockville Centre Historical Society has begun an intensive survey of the Riverside Park neighborhood, the first step toward having the area recognized by National Register of Historic Places and local landmark ordinances.

The survey follows preliminary approval from the New York State Historic Preservation Office, which found that Riverside Park could potentially qualify as a historic district. The area is bounded roughly by Merrick Road to the north, Lincoln Avenue to the east, Shell Bank Place to the south and the Mill River to the west.

“This Riverside Park is so historic at a high level that the New York State Office of Historic Preservation said go forward,”

Continued on page 9

RVC Little League celebrates another successful year

By AlYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

The Rockville Centre Little League celebrated the 2025 season with its 72th annual awards dinner last week, at which league Vice President Paul Sewell was honored with the Mort Geller award for his years of dedication to the organization.

Hundreds of young players crowded the Coral House in Baldwin on Nov. 5 for appetizers and dinner. League President Peter Klugewicz reminded the gathering that league teams had won six championships in the national organization’s Dis-

trict 30 in each of their respective age brackets.

Mayor Francis Murray spoke next. “I’d like to thank Vice President Paul Sewell for his dedication and commitment to the young ladies in the softball,” he said, referring to the league’s softball division. “Thank you so much for all you’ve done playing. I’ve seen how much this league has grown, and I’d like to thank the parents and coaches and the board for all they do to advance this program and teach our children what it’s like not just to play sports, but camaraderie and how to really act with one another.”

Nassau County Legislator

Scott Davis, a former youth football coach himself, offered some advice to the families in attendance. He told a story of how he got upset one year with his quarterback — who happened to be his son — for throwing an interception, and benched him. “When I went back to work on Monday, sitting at my desk, I thought about that, and I said, ‘That was the worst thing that I could ever have done,’” Davis recalled. “So what I did was, I called that young man, and I apologized to that young man. I tried to use it as a lesson that that young man would take with him the rest of

his life. And that lesson was that although we are adults, we can make mistakes, too.”

Sewell introduced the next speaker, Leah Boggs, who plays for the professional fast-pitch softball team the New York Rise. “A star softball player at the University of Virginia, four-year starter, one of the top catchers in the (Atlantic Coast

Conference), which I can appreciate as a former catcher myself,” Sewell said. “Before her collegiate career, she was a standout multi-sport athlete in high school, playing basketball and volleyball. Today she shares her passion for softball by training inspiring young players in teamwork, dedication

Continued on page 10

Annual 5K and Family Fun Run to return

By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

Get ready to strap on your sneakers as the 46th annual 5K and 1-mile Family Fun Run return to RVC. Elite Fleats will record the race.

It all begins on Nov. 15, with the Family Fun Run at 8:30 a.m. followed by the 5K at 9:30 sharp. The Rockville Centre Recreation Department, the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce and the Village of Rockville Centre organize this event each year.

“The Department of Public Works, the police department, everyone helps out the day off with making sure the race is safe and secure with barricades and that the streets are closed down for the runners to run through safely. So it truly takes a full village to make this safe race run,” Karen Polito, superintendent of recreation said.

The Family Fun Run will line up on Front Street turning down N. Centre Avenue where runners will head down to a turnaround and return to the start. The following run will begin near the Rockville Centre Train Station on Front Street, with the run going throughout the village leading back to the starting point once again.

“The Chamber has always participated as a partner by paying for and supplying the participant race shirts,” Ed

Hundred of residents from Rockville Centre and beyond attended the 5K and Family Fun Run last year on Nov. 16.

Asip, president of the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce said. “These shirts highlight the Chamber’s Platinum Members and is one of the perks of their membership. Chamber members also support the event by participating in medal distribution and the award ceremony.”

Fun for the whole family, hundreds of residents from Rockville Centre and beyond are expected to run this year, with the race having 17 different categories for winners based on age and gender with an overall winner.

“As mayor, I always look forward to our annual Family Fun Run and 5K,”

Mayor Francis X. Murray said. “It’s one of those special days that truly captures the spirit of our village. Each year, you can feel the energy and pride as families, neighbors, and friends come together to cheer one another on.”

For more information and to sign up for the race, visit Events.EliteFeats. com/25RVC.

RVC honors local vets with annual ceremony

By DANIEL OFFNER

Special to the Herald

In observance of Veterans Day, the Village of Rockville Centre held a ceremony Tuesday morning inside the John A. Anderson Recreation Center to honor and recognize local veterans, including U.S. Army veteran Mike Betzag, and thank them for their service.

“It was an eye-opening experience,” Betzag said of his time in the military. “I got to see and meet different people from different parts of the country, with such a wide variety of personalities.”

Betzag, now 81, said he “grew up in the service.” He was only 18 when he enlisted and served from 1962 to 1965, stationed at Fort Dix in New Jersey — where he completed eight weeks of truck driver training — and at Fort Sill in Oklahoma, in a transportation unit.

“We had over a hundred and some odd trucks,” he said. “The first year we drove from Fort Sill up to Fort Carson, Colorado, picked up the Fifth Infantry Division, and then went to the Yakima firing range in Washington.”

Although he never left the United States or saw combat, Betzag said he took part in war games for several weeks before returning to base.

“The next year, I drove a 1,200-gallon gas truck from Fort Sill out to the Arizona-California border and lived in the Mojave Desert for about four weeks,” he said. “We played war games and came back.”

When he returned home at age 20, Betzag admitted he didn’t yet know what to do next.

“I was mixed up. I was confused. I didn’t know what was going on,” he said. “Finally, I came to my senses, met a girl and got married.”

Rockville Centre is home to more than 1,000 veterans like Betzag, several of whom attended Tuesday’s ceremony.

“We have to support our veterans and

our military,” Betzag said. “We got to keep this country strong.”

Veterans Day was first celebrated on Nov. 11, 1918, to commemorate the armistice between the Allies and German forces, effectively calling for the ceasefire that ended World War I. Originally dubbed “Armistice Day,” it is observed each year on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.

The ceremony opened with the Pledge of Allegiance led by the Boy Scouts of Rockville Centre, followed by a presentation of colors by the Rockville Centre Fire Department and a benediction from American Legion Post 303 Chaplain Mark Getman.

“On this Veterans Day, we pause with reverence to honor the men and women who have worn the uniform of our nation,” said Joe Scarola, past county commander and member of American Legion Post 303, who led the ceremony. “All veterans have carried the weight of liberty on their shoulders. Our safety and freedoms were earned by those in uniform. We are here to say that we do not take their service for granted.”

Scarola also spoke of veterans’ continued service beyond the battlefield — mentoring youth, responding to disasters, and honoring the fallen — before calling for a moment of remembrance for those still missing in action. An empty chair was placed in front as a symbolic gesture to represent the thousands of American POWs and MIAs unaccounted for from all wars and conflicts.

“Honoring veterans is not confined to a single day,” Scarola said. “It is a lifelong commitment reflected in how we care for those who serve, how we teach future generations, and how we live as citizens worthy of their sacrifice.”

Congresswoman Laura Gillen, who represents roughly 16,000 veterans across her district, also shared her thoughts about the holiday and the importance of recognizing those who answered the call of service to protect our freedoms.

“It is a privilege to join each and every one of you to honor the veterans who have so nobly served our country,” Gillen said. “It’s often said, but should often be repeated, that freedom is not free. As Americans, we owe a deep debt of grati-

tude to every single service member. And as a country, we have a solid responsibility to do everything we can to take care of our veterans.”

Gillen recognized all of the military veterans and Gold Star families in attendance, adding, “you represent the very best of Long Island. You are patriots, leaders and heroes right here in our community, who make this place a better place to live. Your courage, resilience, and service inspire us all.”

Mayor Francis X. Murray closed by thanking American Legion Post 303 for organizing the event and keeping the tradition alive.

“Each year, we gather to express our deepest appreciation for those who have served and continue to serve,” Murray said. “Seeing our residents, families, and children come together to honor our veterans is a powerful reminder of how deeply gratitude runs in Rockville Centre.”

The ceremony concluded with the

ringing

Thomas

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Planning For and Executing Inheritances

(Part Two)

Early on, we learned the estate planning phrase “There’s nothing so unequal as the equal treatment of unequals.” Who has children that are all the same?

Some children have received significant help from parents during their lifetimes while others haven’t. Many parents choose the “forgiveness provision” to address this situation at death, to either “equalize” any gifts made to some children during lifetime with those who did not or, in the alternative, to “forgive” any loans made to children and then make a gift in like amount to each of the other children by inheritance, before the estate is divvied up in equal shares. Conversely, lifetime gifts may also be ignored. Next up is the problem of children who are partially or wholly estranged. Many clients wish to leave them a token amount but there are pitfalls to consider. One who is left considerably less than their siblings will often be angry and upset. They may demand that their siblings disclose what they received and even to pony up an equal share. Not only that, but the burden of telling that estranged child

they are getting less and delivering the paltry amount is left to the children who you wish to favor!

In our view, it is sometimes better to leave an estranged child out altogether than to stir up all the issues surrounding an inheritance much smaller than equal.

There are many valid reasons, however, to treat children differently. Some may have alcohol or substance abuse issues, learning disabilities or special needs, they may be immature and irresponsible, poor at handling money or a “soft touch” and, finally, they may have a spouse that dominates them and you do not want to see that controlling spouse get your money.

Sometimes parents leave more to the “needy” child, the old adage being that “the tongue always turns to the aching tooth”. If so, other children’s feelings may need to addressed. A letter to be opened after your death, explaining what you did and why, may go a long way towards soothing hurt feelings and avoiding misunderstandings, what we term the “emotional legacy”.

Crime watCh

Leaving the SCene of an aCCident

On Nov. 6, a motorist reported their vehicle was struck by another vehicle which fled the scene while driving on N. Long Beach Road.

On Nov. 9, a motorist reported their vehicle was struck by another vehicle which fled the scene while driving on Merrick Road.

On Nov. 9, a motorist reported their vehicle was struck by another vehicle which fled the scene while driving on S. Long Beach Road.

UnUSUaL inCident

On Nov. 4, someone reported an unknown person altered a check mailed through the U.S. Postal System. On Nov. 6, someone reported an unknown person altered a check mailed through the U.S. Postal System.

arreSt

On Nov. 9, Kenneth Napravnik, age 36, of Lenox Road, Rockville Centre, was arrested and charged with Criminal Mischief in the Third Degree and Assault in the Third Degree.

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

fire watCh

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

November 2 – November 9

General Alarms – 5

Still Alarms – 4 Rescue – 4

Aided Cases (Ambulance) – 31

Mutual Aid Fire – 0

Mutual Aid Rescue – 0

Mutual Aid Ambulance – 0

Total – 44

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

Year To Date

General Alarms – 399 Still Alarms – 254 Rescue – 158

Aided Cases (Ambulance) – 2025

Mutual Aid Fire – 72

Mutual Aid Rescue – 2

Mutual Aid Ambulance – 8

Total – 2918

newS brief

National Merit Commended HS Students

South Side High School students were named National Merit Commended Students last month. William Barriocanal, Megan Chiara, Eric Greene and Matthew Tomossonie were among the four students recognized for their outstanding academic performances.

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation, a nonprofit organization that was established in 1955, makes this possible.

–Alyssa R. Griffin

Each year, more than two-thirds (roughly 34,000) of the high scorers are designated Commended Students. They are named on the basis of a nationally applied Selection Index qualifying score that varies every year.

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South Side repeats as county champion

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

South Side’s girls’ volleyball team swept its way to a second straight Nassau Class A title.

Senior Allie Fingleton had 11 kills and junior Lena Miller and senior Keira Mullaney each added nine as the topseeded Cyclones (14-1) won all nine sets during their county playoff run, including a 25-19, 27-25, 25-16 victory over No. 2 Plainedge on Saturday afternoon at Farmingdale High School.

Senior Amy Berenbroick had 39 assists and junior Maeve Britt had 24 digs for the Cyclones, who blanked No. 8 Floral Park and No. 5 Wantagh on their way to the county final. They faced Section XI representative Half Hollow Hills West for the Long Island title at Hauppauge High School on Wednesday.

“It feels amazing,” South Side coach Steve Mariano said. “This group is such a close-knit family, and we always preach playing for each other and having each other’s backs. No matter what adversity we face, we just have to be mentally sound and strong — and they really proved that tonight.”

South Side sophomore Caitlin Ferrari produced eight points alone in the third set, including a spike off a long Plainedge volley that clinched the title. She accounted for four of the Cyclones’ final five points of the match.

“I couldn’t have asked for a better point to end it on,” Ferrari said. “But I just played for them and for the bigger picture — my team defending our championship title. It was all for them, and I dedicated it all to them.”

Ten of the Cyclones’ 14 wins this season have come by 3-0 scores, including each of their last four matches. They have won their last 14 sets, dating back to a second-set loss in a 3-1 victory at Plainedge on Oct. 24.

Sophomore Kennedy Murnane had 10 kills and Angelina Puglisi added seven during Plainedge’s first-ever county final appearance.

“I don’t think anything really went wrong,” Red Devils coach Colin Fratik said. “I think we played really well. I thought South Side just played a little bit better than us. They did a really good job getting their hands on a lot of our attacks, and they made a couple of incredible defensive plays.”

Plainedge (13-6) capitalized on numerous South Side unforced errors early, jumping out to a 7-1 lead in the opening set. The Red Devils then scored four straight points to push their advantage to 11-3 before the Cyclones recovered with an 18-4 run to take control for good.

Plainedge scored the next three points — including two Pugliese kills — to close within 21-18, but a Red Devils

Maeve Britt, left, and Tess Rakeman celebrated after the Cyclones’ sealed their second straight county championship.

serving error, a Miller ace, and a Mullaney kill sealed the set.

“I think it was honestly just nerves going into counties,” Miller said of the first set. “Everyone knew it was a big game, and I think it was just nerves. We have a lot of chemistry as a team, so it was great that we came together and bounced back.”

South Side carried that momentum into the second set and jumped out to a 10-4 lead before a 9-3 Plainedge run tied it at 13. Three straight Miller kills and two more by Berenbroick highlighted a 7-0 Cyclones run immediately after, but Plainedge showed resilience by fighting off three set points and taking a 25-24 lead on Murnane’s soft volley that found a gap in the South Side defense.

But a double-hit violation on Plainedge, another Miller kill and a Red Devils kill attempt that sailed long gave the Cyclones the set.

The thwarted rally appeared to deflate the Red Devils as South Side jumped out to a 4-0 lead in the third set — including a powerful Miller kill that knocked a Plainedge defender to the ground — and later went on an 8-2 run for an 18-9 advantage on its way to the title.

SPORTS

West Islip defeats South Side in LIC

By NICK MONGIOVI sports@liherald.com

After a 10-win season and capturing the Nassau Class AA championship, the South Side girls soccer team’s season ended last Saturday with a 3-0 loss against West Islip in the Long Island Class AA title game at Walt Whitman High School.

Three seniors helped the Lions punched their ticket to the New York State Final Four as Leah Tomeo, Alexandra Livingston and Francesca Tofano had the goals.

“I think it was a tremendous game, we really took control of the game and put a lot of pressure on them when it was all said and done,” West Islip coach Ed Jablonski said. “They’re a tremendous team that we were able to shut down and find the back of the net. Their goalie stood on her head for so much of that game and she really played a tremendous game, as did they all. I’m so proud of what the girls were able to do and defend their Long Island championship.”

Despite the loss, goalkeeper Abby Gruner kept the Cyclones in the game. In the first few minutes, West Islip swarmed South Side in the box, but Gruner was able to put together two key saves that would prevent the Lions from getting on the board. She finished with seven saves.

“She’s always strong in the goal,” South Side coach Judi Croutier said of Gruner. “Just her presence on the field, she leads the team.”

Tomeo opened the scoring with a shot that passed the

outstretched reach of Gruner and then Ava Bianca found Livingston on a crossing pass, which Livingston buried with a header for a 2-0 lead. A goal that was described as “the biggest goal of the season” by Jablonski. The Lions slammed the door shut on feed from Leah Tussie to Tofano later in the 64th minute.

West Islip’s goalkeeper in Jillian Olfano picked up right where she left off in the regular season and Suffolk County finals win over Harborfields with a shutout in the victory. For a team that allowed just five goals all season, Jablonksi credited Olfano as a huge contributor for that.

“She gutted out everything,” Jablonski said. “She went out there and anything that was near her, she controlled.”

South Side grinded this game out until the final buzzer.

“I’m proud of the girls,” Croutier said. “They played hard all year. They worked through injuries and we won the counties and here it just wasn’t the outcome we wanted.”

Croutier will be without standouts Julie Faranda, Brooke Doreste, Maddie Woo, Gruner, Sophia Anisansel and Molly Barry in 2026, but will be returning a “great core.”

“We’re going to celebrate our seniors first,” Croutier said regarding what’s next for the Cyclones. “They’re [the seniors] just part of a great team and we’re proud of all the hard work they did,”

Brooke Doreste, left, is one of a handful of seniors who helped lead the Cyclones to the Nassau Class AA title this fall.

LIPA chief discusses L.I.’s energy future

By MADISON GUSLER mgusler@liherald.com

At the Long Island Association’s Energy and Environment Committee meeting on Nov. 5, Carrie Meek Gallagher, the new CEO of the Long Island Power Authority, spoke about the future of energy on Long Island.

“Energy is very significant to our economy, our businesses and just our way of life here on Long Island,” Matt Cohen, LIA president and CEO, said. LIA is a nonprofit association that works to ensure Long Island’s economic vitality.

Gallagher, who took over at LIPA from John Rhodes in June, spoke with dozens of energy experts and local business owners about her priorities for the public authority, which owns the electric transmission and distribution system serving Long Island and the Rockaway peninsula. She has over 25 years of experience working in energy and sustainability in the public sector, having directed the Long Island office of the state Department of Public Service, and been the acting deputy secretary to the governor for energy and environment, and the regional director of the state Department of Environmental Conservation.

“Everyone here is committed to making sure that Long Island’s energy need are met in a clean, efficient and safe way,” Pat Guidice, business manger of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1049, said. “I can’t tell you how happy we at IBEW-1049 are that Carrie is now at the helm of LIPA, ensuring we have clean and efficient energy that will be provided to Long Island.”

“Carrie’s commitment to the people of Long Island is second to none,” Guidice added.

Madison Gusler/Herald Long Island Power Authority’s new CEO, Carrie Meek Gallagher, spoke at the Long Island Association’s Energy and Environment Committee meeting on Nov. 5.

Gallagher said that her priorities are to ensure that there is a clean, reliable and affordable power supply, and to strengthen LIPA’s partnership with PSEG Long Island, which provides electrical service to customers.

“We need power — we need energy to run our economy,” she said. “We know affordability is really critical right now, so that’s something we’re continuing to

focus on.”

Entering contract negotiations with local and outof-state energy providers over the next three years, Gallagher said she is focused on cutting costs without impacting performance. She has also continued outreach about LIPA’s Time-of-Day program, which allows customers to choose when they use electricity, at varying rates.

Gallagher assured attendees that LIPA is prepared for days of high-energy demand. “We have enough capacity on any given day to meet even our peak demands,” she said.

Clean energy — which, she said, Long Island is very committed to — helps relieve the grid in times of high demand. South Fork Wind, she said, has been providing LIPA with power for over a year. She said that Long Island leads the state in solar installations, with nearly 100,000 customers and businesses receiving solar energy. While federal tax incentives for solar power will expire at the end of the year, Gallagher said that LIPA is working with state and local partners to create an alternative option for residents looking to go solar.

“Solar works here,” she said. “We know Long Islanders are willing to adopt it, and we want to continue that momentum, as it really does make a difference.”

According to the state Department of Public Service’s 2024 Electric Reliability Performance Report, Gallagher said, LIPA has outperformed all other overhead electric utilities in New York for five years. This shows that the agency has consistently provided energy to Long Islanders, and, she added, it continues to invest in ensuring that it can provide reliable and affordable service in the future.

Survey has documented nearly 200 sites

Matt Cliszis, of the historical society, said. “This looks great, but in order to actually approve it, we need an intensive-level survey.”

Society members will photograph and document the nearly 200 buildings and structures in the area. “We will be doing archival research on multiple buildings within there, but we will be photographing and documenting building details for every building within that proposed district,” Cliszis explained. “For every single house, we have to write: What year was it built? Is there any historical significance of that house? What is the roof made of? What is the outside made of? All those details.”

The survey, he said, will likely take the organization over a year to complete, with many doing the work in addition to their regular jobs, but Cliszis said he hoped it would end up taking less time.

“It’s however quickly we can photograph and document each of those buildings,” he said. “I’m hoping that throughout the winter we can get this done, and then submit it maybe midway through 2026 for approval.”

Currently, he said, the only building in the village listed on the National Register of Historic Places is the post office.

The register is a federal recognition program managed by the National Park

Service that honors buildings, sites or districts with historical, architectural or cultural significance, according to the NPS website. A listing is honorary, not regulatory — it does not restrict what the property owner can do with the property. The designation brings public recognition of a site’s historic value, and can make owners eligible for certain tax credits and grant programs for rehabilitation work.

“The National Register is an honor

that opens the door to these credits for qualifying renovations,” Cliszis said.

A local preservation ordinance, on the other hand, is a law enacted by a city or village that provides legal protection for designated historic properties or districts. These ordinances can regulate changes to the exterior of designated buildings, which often require local approval for demolitions, additions or major alterations. While this kind of regulation provides for stron -

ger local-level protection of a community’s historic character, it also introduces specific requirements for property owners.

Cliszis stressed that the goal is only to earn registration in the national register and that the historical society will not recommend new village ordinances. Residents of the proposed historic district would not be affected by new regulations or restrictions.

“The Rockville Centre Historical Society continues to do incredible work preserving and sharing our community’s rich history,” Village Trustee Katie Conlon said. “The village is proud to support their work, and looks forward to seeing the results of this important project. The board and I are grateful for their continued commitment to preserving the character and heritage that make Rockville Centre such a special place to live.”

Once the survey is complete, the historical society plans to host community meetings with the State Historic Preservation Office to answer questions and discuss the next steps.

Cliszis encouraged residents to get involved by sharing any information they have about their homes. Anyone with questions or information can contact the historical society at rvchistoricalsociety@gmail.com.

Additional reporting by Alyssa R. Griffin.

League honors the season’s title winners

and love for the game.”

Boggs talked about her journey as a professional athlete. “I was never the best hitter or the fastest runner or the strongest kid on the field,” she said, “but I love the game, and I worked hard, and I never stopped learning and believing in myself more than anyone else did. I now am entering my third year as a professional athlete. I just finished my first year as a Division I assistant coach in the ACC, the same conference that I played in, and today I get to speak to a group of people in the same position that I once was all those years ago.”

The next speaker, Mets pitcher Nolan McLean, had all the kids running up to the stage. As a young baseball player turned professonal athelte in adulthood, McLean shared some advice for young people who may put so much pressure on themselves that they don’t enjoy the game.

“I was a hitter and a pitcher, and just from the kids’ standpoint, this game will bring you to your knees if you care about it enough, and you’ll be in some super vulnerable positions,” McLean said. “You’ve got to embrace those uncomfortable situations, and it’s never really failures. It’s just kind of learning moments.”

Asked about his favorite part of playing professionally, McLean said that it’s meeting new peope from unigue areas and different places in their lives.

The young players all gathered to ask McLean questions. Then dozens of players from the league’s baseball and softball teams were presented with awards, and Sewell was honored for his work as vice president of softball as he enters retirement.

“At this time, the most important award that the Rockville Centre Little League presents to anybody — and there is nobody in the history of Rockville Centre Little League, and especially our softball program, that deserves an honor more than our guy, Paul Sewell,” Klugewicz said. “He was the guy that was down there doing all the dirty work that nobody else likes to do. He stepped up, and again, very proud to work side by side with him for probably too many years.”

Sewell a league board of directors member from 2013 to 2025 and softball vice president from 2018 to 2025, was honored with the Mort Geller Award, given to longtime volunteers — the league’s highest honor — and was described as the “heart and soul” of the softball teams.

For more information on the Rockville Centre Little League, visit RVCLittleLeague.org.

Molloy donates new athletic sign to RVC

By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

South Side High School welcomed a new athletic sign to Rockville Centre to display its championship years. Donated by Molloy University, the sign was revealed to the community on Oct. 26 during a ceremony led by Nassau County Legislator Scott Davis.

Dozens of residents and students came out to check out the new sign and see all their championships recognized for the village’s viewing. The sign sits at the corner of Ocean Avenue and Sunrise Highway.

“I want to thank you all for coming here today, we really appreciate it,” Davis said. “So there’s a sign right down the block and that sign has seen a lot better days. So I thought that this town deserves better than that.”

Davis started the conversation about a new sign, however bringing it to a reality was going to take some more work. He then looked to Molloy for the answer. After speaking with James Lentini, the university’s president, the deal was made in 10 minutes.

“In addition to this great partnership that gets assigned here and Molloy’s name on the bottom, we also want to announce a scholarship that Molloy is working on now with South Side,” Lentini said. “We’ll offer two $2,500 scholarships to Molloy each year for a male and female athlete. And that would be, in addition to any other merit aid that student would get coming to Molloy, and we’re doing some great things there.”

This movement is in part with Molloy’s “Communiversity,” which bonds the university with Rockville Centre village.

“When we think about a day like today, we think of three things, really,” Matthew Gaven, superintendent of Rockville Centre Schools said. “We think of community and the Rockville Centre community is an unbelievable

community. We think of tradition and outstanding excellence in all of our sports and in the classrooms.”

Patrick Maguire, the athletic director for Rockville Centre Schools, ensured that the correct information was collected and each championship was displayed prominently.

“He was so instrumental in making sure that I see all of you here, and you’re looking at the names and the gears and those who are on this board, that’s the man who made it happen,” Davis said.

“Scott Davis was instrumental, that we’re grateful for the president of Molloy showing up and helping us

with this,” Gaven said. “And of course, the village we’re grateful to all of them for working together to celebrate our kids and Pat Maguire’s work to kind of collate everything all together.”

The village board also attended the unveiling with Mayor Francis Murray.

“I’d like to thank all the coaches, the parents and the students, because without any of you, none of these numbers would be up here,” he said. “We will continue to back the school, and we will continue to back our athletes and whatever they need from whatever we can do with the village.”

Isles awarded 2027 NHL All-Star Weekend

By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

The next National Hockey League All-Star Game will be played at UBS Arena in Elmont.

For only the second time in franchise history, the New York Islanders will host the NHL’s All-Star game. The league announced Oct. 24 UBS Arena will be the site of the 2027 Honda NHL All-Star Weekend. The event is scheduled for Feb. 5, 6 and 7, and the weekend’s festivities will be broadcast by ESPN and ABC. Additional information on the midseason showcase, including ticketing and broadcast information, will be announced when available.

Islanders season ticket members will receive priority access to the event.

“We have been looking forward to UBS Arena playing host to one of our major League events since before construction of this wonderful arena began,” NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said in a statement. “We have every confidence that the Islanders organization, led by Scott Malkin and Jon Ledecky, will deliver a celebration that will make the greater New York region and the NHL proud.”

Tim Baker/Herald

UBS Arena in Elmont will host the NHL All-Star Weekend Feb. 5-7, 2027, the league announced Oct. 24.

The Islanders had originally been awarded the 2026 All-Star Weekend, but that was cancelled this past spring when the league decided not to hold the game in the same year as the Winter Olympic Games taking place in Milan, Italy. The idea then became to turn the weekend into a pre-Olympics event, but the NHL decided to nix that as well to allow players to focus on travel and preparation for the Olympics.

It is now expected each NHL Club will organize an Olympic Winter Games send-off for its respective players traveling to Italy, with more details to be announced in the near future.

Islanders forward Mathew Barzal, who has appeared in the NHL All-Star

Game three times (2019, 2020 and 2024) and in 2020 won the fastest skater competition, is excited about the event coming to Elmont.

“It’s exciting that the All-Star Game is coming to Long Island,” Barzal said. “UBS Arena is one of the best buildings in the league so it will be great to show off the dressing room and the amenities we have as players. It’s going to be great for our fans to see the best of the best take the ice on the island.”

Fans can sign up to receive news and updates on the 2027 Honda NHL All-Star Weekend by going to nhl.com/events/ all-star/nhl-all-star-weekend.

The NHL experienced a new wave of interest last winter when the traditional All-Star Game was replaced by the 4 Nations Face-Off, a four-team tournament contested by winners Canada, the United States, Sweden and Finland.

The 2027 Honda NHL All-Star Weekend will mark just the second time the Islanders will host NHL All-Star activities, with the first being the 1983 edition, featuring the Campbell Conference AllStars defeating the Wales Conference All-Stars 9-3, and Wayne Gretzky claiming NHL All-Star MVP honors at Nassau Coliseum with a then-record four goals.

It’ll also mark the first All-Star Game in the state of New York since 1994, when the New York Rangers hosted it at Madison Square Garden.

South Side ‘kicks it’ at Burning Bases

By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

Burning Bases, an annual kickball tournament, attracted over 10 high school schools from Nassau County, including South Side High for the competition held at Long Beach High School on Oct. 17.

This year’s event was highlighted by an opening ceremony led by the Long Beach High School’s Pep Band and Color Guard.

“The event was filled with excitement as teams played six spirited games, with lively music and a pep band adding to the fun atmosphere,” Patrick Walsh, principal of South Side High School said. “It was a day of teamwork, sportsmanship, and smiles — a truly successful and enjoyable event for everyone involved!”

During the opening ceremony, all schools were announced while the marching band performed and the

HERALD

ATTENTION STUDENTS:

THE HERALD IS HOLDING A CONTEST TO DESIGN HOLIDAY WRAPPING PAPER

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CONTEST RULES:

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One entry per student

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Friday, November 14, 2025

Requirements: All entries should have the student’s name, age, address, telephone number, email, grade and school printed on the back. Design can be reflective of all religious holidays. Entries will not be returned.

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cheerleaders pumped up the crowd. Long Beach High seniors served as coaches for the participating students. Every 20 minutes, the schools switched off to play against another team.

South Side sophomore Lyla Shimkin attended for her first time this year.

“My favorite part is when we danced like we had a dance party at the end,” she said. “I liked seeing the middle school teachers and the middle school students.”

For 10th-grader Joshua Brown it was not his first kickball game.

“My favorite part was kicking like the ball, and then I ran into first, second, third and fourth, base and home run,” he said.

This event is held for students with disabilities to have a fun and active time with their peers not only from their school, but surrounding schools as well.

All the students then ate lunch together and looked to build long-lasting friendships too.

Creative Tips

• Must use 8 1/2 x 11” unlined paper, copy paper or construction paper.

• Be creative & original.

• Use bright colors.

• Fill the entire page.

News brief

Gatti is Small Businessperson of the Year

Susan Gatti of the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce was named Small Businessperson of the Year 2025 during the Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce’s 40th Annual Businessperson of the Year and Legislative Breakfast. The event was held at the Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury on Oct. 31.

As a top-rated business adviser, Gatti has been nationally recognized for being a learning strategist, published author and speaker on wellness in the workplace. Her career began in public education, where she went on to work as an executive leader in banking, retail and hospitality. She then rose into entrepreneurship 15 years ago, launching the professional growth model, “Disruptive Spark.”

The model now is a thriving boutique performance consultancy and education company. It was designed to empower leaders to build their brand, while driving revenue and achieving their goals. Her spirit for the transformation of businesses through high-performance workplace habits speaks for her work.

STEPPING OUT

Gaelic Storm

‘Jump’ right in with Mickey and his pals

By Karen Bloom

Before we get ready for the big feast, take some time with your family to feast on some Disney magic. The holiday season lights up, once again, as the latest Disney On Ice tour skates into UBS Arena with “Jump In!,” now through Nov. 16. As always, Mickey and the gang start audiences off on some wild adventures from the moment everyone settles in their seats. It’s a jumpin’ and jivin’ ride that begins with a touch of Mickey’s Magical Mouse Pad. Yeah, that’s right, even Mickey has embraced technology with his special version of an iPad!

Truly an outsized spectacle, over 50 characters gather in this —all-new — extravagant showcase of some of Disney’s most beloved tales. Disneyphiles will jump for joy when new characters from “Moana 2” and Anxiety, the newly-introduced emotion in the “Inside Out 2” sequel, appear on ice. Anxiety is, of course, joined by the other characters we all know so well: Joy, Sadness, Disgust, Anger, and Fear.

Everyone can navigate those thrilling high seas with Moana and feel all the feels in the vibrant world of “Inside Out 2” when these beloved films come to life on ice for the first time. And, naturally, there’s so much more.

Help Stitch fix a glitch as mayhem ensues across the ice, stroll the bustling metropolis of “Zootopia,” glide through the icy realms of “Frozen,” marvel at the playful“Toy Story” universe and travel to the vibrant world of Colombia with the Madrigal family in “Encanto.” Plus, everyone is always in awe when Ariel, Jasmine, Rapunzel, and Tiana arrive in a dazzling parade of Disney princesses.

These unforgettable characters and their adventures are fully alive as families are transported to world where imaginations soar — and in true Disney spirit “anything can happen if you just believe.”

And that’s how it is for Andrew Austin. The Chicago, Ill.-based skater, who joined the Disney On Ice ensemble in 2022, after concluding his competitive skating career — is certainly living his dream.

He, naturally, has been a Disney fan since childhood (a prerequisite of sorts for skaters in the show). His first experience with Disney on Ice came around age 6, Austin recalls.

“I’ve always loved Disney, especially ‘The Lion King’ and ‘The Little Mermaid.’ A truly poignant memory for me is when my godmother took me [to the show]. I

• Now through Sunday. Nov. 16; times vary

• Tickets start at $40; available at ticketmaster.com or disneyonice.com

• UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont

have such a fond memory of being there with her.”

That memory has since become reality for Austin, who first laced up skates as 6-year-old.

“I soon realized I had a talent for skating and wanted to see how far I could push myself,” he says.”

At 23, Austin decided it was time, as he put it, “to make a new start and begin a new chapter.”

Disney beckoned and he never looked back.

“It’s all magical,” Austin says enthusiastically.

That word again. The Mouse House goes big on the magic — and the magic brings everyone together.

“It’s really about family togetherness and learning the magic of family so it’s a great time for all ages,” Austin says.

Like always, the skating brings a new dimension to the stories we know so well. You’ll see exciting visuals, thrilling stunts and mesmerizing choreography that fully immerse those both on ice and in their seats. The solos, pairs and fast-paced ensemble skating, along with acrobatic routines, keep everyone transfixed to the action unfolding.

“We’ve worked so hard to get to this point, the skating is truly top notch,” Austin adds.

Expect to see acrobatic stunts throughout the show. High-flying performers elevate skating to the next level, with gravity-defying aerial stunts.

It’s hard to imagine a band just coming into their own after 20 years of success, but that’s exactly what makes Gaelic Storm a true anomaly. The multi-national, Celtic juggernaut grows stronger with each live performance, and after two decades and over 2000 shows, they are a true force to be reckoned with. fans of every genre are attracted to their rich storytelling, energetic instrumentals, devotion to Celtic traditions and passion for their stagecraft. This dedication to their live show dates all the way back to the mid-1990s, when the band kicked off their career as a pub band in Santa Monica, Calif. Those performances ultimately led to their discovery that found the band appearing in the blockbuster film “Titanic” (where they performed “Irish Party in Third Class”), laying the groundwork for what would come, all while gaining a reputation as a genre-bending Irish rock band whose songs mix Celtic traditions with something uniquely creative.

Friday, Nov. 14, 8 p.m. $68, $58, $48. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.

Princess Ariel soars above the ice to “Kiss the Girl,” and Rapunzel’s golden hair is brought to life by flowing aerial silks in a dazzling aerial routine with Flynn Rider.

Throughout it all, you’ll be singing along — no matter your age. Disney’s timeless catalog, including “Let It Go” (Frozen), “Try Everything”(Zootopia), “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” (Encanto), “Get Lost” (Moana 2), and many more favorites, are all part of the exciting soundtrack.

Excitement is certainly a descriptive of the entire spectacle.

“It’s really special and exciting for the cast to see all those smiling faces. We’re so happy to see the how the kids connect with the characters ... I’m so grateful for this opportunity,” he continues.

A final word from Austin: “This really is about family togetherness and learning the magic of family, so it’s a great time for all ages. You’ll see how the magic comes from within.”

Matt Friend

Matt Friend has been described as “a gift to comedy.” If you’re not familiar with him yet, now’s the time to find out what he’s all about. Truly an old soul in the body of a 26-year-old, the comedian-actor-impressionist — a 2020 graduate of NYU’s Gallatin School — discovered a love for comedy at the tender age of four after watching Austin Powers and mimicking the characters’ voices. His passion has since propelled him to great heights, amassing over 1 million followers on social platforms. Known for his impressive repertoire of over 250 impressions, from Rami Malek to Timothee Chalamet, he’s a beloved comedic figure on social media, stages and red carpets worldwide. Mattcontinues to captivate audiences with his stand-up shows across the U.S. and abroad. Impressions aside, Matt is a true intellect — wise beyond his years — a student of show business, comedy, politics, and culture.

Friday, Nov. 14, 8 p.m. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CALENDAR

NOV

‘Once Upon A Song!’

Join L.I. Cabaret Theatre for their latest performance. In this spirited show books in a library are brought to life in song and dance. A cast of 40 keeps the action moving along, with a live band and and a special appearance by Steve Mitchell as Elvis. The singers and dancers perform current hits, oldies and tunes from the Broadway stage, with a tribute to Woodstock and “Wicked.” With refreshments and post-show dancing until 1 A.M. Seating is night-club style at round tables. $30 per person, available in advance or at the door. Refreshments provided; guests can bring in your own food (just no pork or shellfish).

• Where: Temple B’nai Torah, 2900 Jerusalem Ave., Wantagh

• Time: 7:30 p.m.

• Contact: licabaret@aol.com or (516) 946-7207

Village of Rockville Centre 5K and 1 Mile Family Fun Run

Enjoy an energetic Saturday run with family and friends. Register online.

• Where: Front Street, between N. Village and Centre avenues

• Time: 8:30 a.m.

• Contact: RVCNY.us

Defensive Driving Course

Lower your insurance premium or reduce points on your license at Rockville Centre Public Library. $29 for drivers 60 and up; all others $38. Fee payable to Empire Safety Council day of instruction.

• Where: 221 N. Village Ave.

• Time: 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

• Contact: rvclibrary.org

Drive-up Food/Toy Drive

Rockville Centre PBA hosts their third annual food/toy drive to benefit the Hispanic Brotherhood Food Pantry at Police Department headquarters.

• Where: 142 N. Maple Ave.

• Time: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Collage workshop

Join Nassau County Museum of Art’s first Artist-inResidence, John Grande, on a creative journey through personal expression and visual storytelling. Compose your own collage while exploring a variety of tools and techniques used by professional collage and mixed media artists. Each participant will have their pick from a

BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet

Let’s Talk Turkey

As Thanksgiving approaches, get ready by creating some colorful turkeys at Long Island Children’s Museum. Take your terrific turkey home to adorn your Thanksgiving table. For ages 3 and up. This is a drop-in program.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: 1-3 p.m.

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

NOV

28

‘Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive

• Where: Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: landmarkonmainstreet. org or (516) 767-6444

For 50 years, two-time Grammy winner BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet has been hailed as the best Cajun band in the world. The band has been making some of the most potent and popular Cajun music on the planet. Born out of the rich Acadian ancestry of its members, and created and driven by bandleader Michael Doucets spellbinding fiddle playing and soulful vocals, BeauSoleil is notorious for bringing even the most staid audience to its feet. Their distinctive sound derives from the distilled spirits of New Orleans jazz, blues rock, folk, swamp pop, Zydeco, country and bluegrass, captivating listeners from the Jazz and Heritage Festival in New Orleans, to Carnegie Hall, then all the way across the pond to Richard Thompsons Meltdown Festival in England. They are joined on this special tour by their good friend Richard Thompson. An iconic figure in British folk-rock, Thompson is arguably the genre’s greatest triple threat: a dazzling guitarist, an outstanding songwriter, and a strong and evocative vocalist. As one of the founding members of the group Fairport Convention, Thompson would have a seismic impact on both U.K. folk and rock, incorporating elements of traditional music (most effectively on 1969’s Liege and Lief) in a way that sparked a new interest in authentic British folk. He left the group by age 21, which was followed by a decade long musical partnership with his then-wife Linda, to over 30 years as a highly successful solo artist. A wide range of musicians have recorded Thompson’s songs including Robert Plant, Elvis Costello, R.E.M., Sleater-Kinney, Del McCoury, Bonnie Raitt, Tom Jones, David Byrne, Don Henley, Los Lobos, and many more. Thompson wavered between acoustic projects (2005’s Front Parlour Ballads) and more robust full-band efforts (2013’s Electric), but despite his status as an elder statesman of the singer/ songwriter community, he remained active and engaged as a writer and musician, releasing the powerful 13 Rivers in 2018, when he was 69-years-old. $75, $65, $55.

variety of vintage, printed and colorful papers, fabric and trim samples, post cards, magazine clippings, books, and other collaging materials. $50, $45 members. For ages 16+.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: Noon-3 p.m.

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

LuminoCity Festival

LuminoCity is back at Eisenhower Park. Walk through a winter wonderland. Timed admission fee.

• Where: Eisenhower Park, East Meadow

• Time: 4:30-5:15 p.m., 6-6:45 p.m., 7:30-8:15 p.m., through Jan. 1

• Contact: luminocityfestival.com

Let’s Skate

Get ready to enjoy all the thrills of the snowy season, while staying warm and cozy as Long Island Children’s Museum’s popular “Snowflake Sock Skating rink returns, Slip on “sock skates” and take a spin on the indoor rink, made from a high-tech synthetic polymer surface that

lets kids slide around without blades. Kids can stretch, twirl and glide. As visitors step off the “ice” they can jump into winter dramatic play in Snowflake Village. Become a baker in the holiday sweet shop, step inside a giant snowman and serve up some hot cocoa, take a turn in the rink “ticket booth” and “warm up” around a rink side “fire pit.” With special opening weekend activities.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: Opening drop-in programs start at 1 p.m.

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

NOV

Champagne & Chopin

Join The Friends of Old Westbury Gardens for an enchanting evening of music, elegance and celebration. Enjoy a sparkling program featuring internationally acclaimed pianist Julian Gargiulo, the charismatic “Pianist with the Hair,” known for blending virtuosity, humor and heartfelt storytelling in his performances. Set within the intimate ambiance of the Red Ballroom, this special concert pairs Champagne and light bites with an unforgettable

program of Chopin and other beloved works. $125, $200 for two tickets.

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: 6:30-8 p.m.

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

Paddle-making and storytelling at Long Island Children’s Museum

Step into the world of traditional Indigenous craftsmanship with Chenae Bullock, the artist who crafted the mishoon (Indigenous canoe) featured in the Saltwater Stories exhibit. In this drop-in program, families discover the deep connection between paddles, water, and the land as you learn about their cultural significance. Visitors will have the opportunity to design and create their own mini paddles, while exploring stories, traditions, and creative activities that highlight the beauty of Indigenous craftsmanship.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: Stop by anytime between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

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

The Bus! The Musical’ Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes back this delightful production, based on Mo Willems’ awardwinning “Pigeon” picture books. Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! is even more fun than staying up late and having a hot dog party. It’s not easy being the Pigeon — you never get to do anything. But when the Bus Driver has a crisis that threatens to make her passengers (gasp!) late, maybe that wily bird can do something. Featuring an innovative mix of songs, and feathers, this show is sure to get everyone’s wings flapping. $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; also Nov. 29, Dec. 3-Dec. 4

• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

DEC

Sandel Center Holiday Fair

Check out over 20 unique vendors to kick off the holiday season at the Sandel Center.

• Where: 50 S. Park Ave.

• Time: 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

• Contact: rvcny.us or (516) 678-9350

Having an event?

Items onthe 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.

NOVEMBER 19 • 5:30-9:00PM

The Heritage Club at Bethpage

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

ISAO “SAMMY” KOBAYASHI PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER CANON U.S.A., INC.

ELECTRIC

INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR

ISAO “SAMMY” KOBAYASHI

President & CEO

Canon U.S.A., Inc.

ACCOUNTING

JERRY P. WARD

Managing Partner

EY Long Island Office

KIRTHI MANI

Chief People Officer

CLA

LOUIS C. GRASSI, CPA, CFE

Founder & CEO

Grassi Advisors Group, Inc.

SHEILA KURMAN

Chief Human Resources Officer

Prager Metis CPAs

ADVERTISING

BENJAMIN COGGIANO

President Walter F. Cameron Advertising

CONSTRUCTION

JOSH SEIDEN

Owner & President

LMJ Management & Construction

EDUCATION

EDWARD T. BONAHUE, PH.D.

President Suffolk County Community College

MARIA CONZATTI, PH.D.

Chief Administrative Officer

Nassau Community College

RACQUEL A. BROWN

Associate Dean Administrative & Fiscal Affairs

St. John’s University

TIMOTHY E. SAMS, PH.D.

President

SUNY Old Westbury

PATRICIA GALTERI

MICHAEL STEWART

Chief Financial Officer L.E.B Electric

ENGINEERING

MAQSOOD MALIK, P.E.

Founder, President & CEO

M&J Engineering, D.P.C.

MOHAMMAD MALIK

Chief Operating Officer

M&J Engineering, D.P.C.

Managing Attorney Meyer Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C.

RONALD FATOULLAH, ESQ. CELA , Chair Elder Law Practice Group, Partner Trusts & Estates Practice Group Meltzer, Lippe, Goldstein & Breitstone, LLP

MANUFACTURING & DISTRIBUTION

FRANK PALMA

PRINTING

NOREEN CARRO

President

LMN Printing of NY, Inc.

REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT

ROBERT M. GITTO

Vice President

The Gitto Group

TAX PROPERTY REDUCTION SERVICES

SEAN ACOSTA

President

BILLY HAUGLAND II

Chief Executive Officer Haugland Group ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION

FINANCE

MICHAEL MARRERO

SBA Director, SVP BankUnited

HEALTHCARE

MICHAEL N. ROSENBLUT

President & CEO Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care & Rehabilitation Center

SOFIA AGORITSAS, MPA, FACHE Vice President, Business Development Cohen Children’s Medical Center

HOSPITALITY

MICHAEL LESSINGS

Chief Executive Officer Lessings Hospitality Group INNOVATION IN HEALTHCARE

LAURA BONELLI President LifeVac LLC

LEGAL

ALLAN COHEN

Managing Partner Nixon Peabody, LLP

President Liberty Coca-Cola Beverages, LLC

MORTGAGE BANKING

DONATO (DANNY) NICOLO

President/Owner Meadowbrook Financial Mortgage Bankers Corp.

NOT-FOR-PROFIT

ANNE BRIGIS

President & CEO YMCA Long Island

JEFFREY L. REYNOLDS, PH.D. President & CEO Family and Children’s Association (FCA)

KATHERINE FRITZ President & CEO Long Island Cares

LONNIE SHERMAN

President General Needs

MIKE ROSEN

Chief Marketing Officer Guide Dog Foundation & America's VetDogs

TAMMY SEVERINO President & CEO Girls Scouts of Suffolk County

THERESA REGNANTE President & CEO United Way of Long Island

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

TECHNOLOGY

EUGENE SAYAN

Founder,Chairman, CEO Softheon

JOE SCIOSCIA

Executive Vice President

Vormittag Associates, Inc. (VAI)

MICHAEL CHAMBERS AND SEAN INFANTE

President & Vice President

Central Business Systems

TOM BIANCULLI

Chief Technology Officer

Zebra Technologies

TOURISM

MITCH PALLY

Interim President & CEO

Discover Long Island

SHARON WYMAN

Chief Operations Officer

Discover Long Island

TRANSPORTATION

MARLON TAYLOR

President

New York & Atlantic Railway

PALMINA WHELAN, CCM, FCMAA, MCIOB, NAC

Founder & Capital Program

Director of New Terminal 1 at JFK

Palmina Whelan Strategic Solutions

ROBERT FREE

President

Long Island Rail Road

13,

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE AVISO DE ELECCIONES ANUALES DISTRITO DE LA BIBLIOTECA PÚBLICA DE LAKEVIEW DEL CIUDAD DE HEMPSTEAD CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK A LOS VOTANTES CALIFICADOS DEL DISTRITO DE LA BIBLIOTECA PÚBLICA DE LAKEVIEW: POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que, de conformidad con el Capítulo 403 de las Leyes del Estado de Nueva York de 1977, se celebrarán elecciones en el Distrito de la Biblioteca Pública de Lakeview el 2 de diciembre de 2025. Las urnas se abrirán entre las 16:00 y las 22:00. hora estándar, en la Biblioteca Pública de Lakeview, ubicada en 1120 Woodfield, Rockville Centre, Nueva York, en dicho Distrito, con el fin de elegir a un (1) Fideicomisario de la Biblioteca, por un período de cinco (5) años, para suceder a Andrea Maddison, cuyo mandato vence el 31 de diciembre de 2025. La votación se realizará mediante papeleta. Las urnas abrirán a las 16:00 h y permanecerán abiertas hasta las 22:00 h, o el tiempo que sea necesario para que los votantes presentes puedan emitir su voto. SE NOTIFICA ADEMÁS que, de conformidad con la resolución adoptada en la reunión de la Junta Directiva del Distrito de la Biblioteca Pública de Lakeview, celebrada el 15 de octubre de 2025, los candidatos a la Junta Directiva de la Biblioteca deberán presentar sus candidaturas ante el Secretario del Distrito en la Biblioteca Pública de Lakeview, 1120 Woodfield Road, Rockville Centre, Nueva York, al menos diez (10) días antes de la fecha de dicha elección, con la firma de veinticinco (25) electores cualificados (según se define más adelante) del Distrito. Un elector cualificado es una persona registrada para votar y que ha residido en el Distrito de la Biblioteca al menos 30 días antes de la elección. Solo los

electores cualificados residentes pueden ejercer el cargo de Junta Directiva de la Biblioteca o votar en las elecciones del Distrito. Los formularios de solicitud están disponibles en la Biblioteca.

TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que las solicitudes de papeletas de voto en ausencia para las elecciones de la Biblioteca Pública de Lakeview pueden presentarse en la Biblioteca Pública de Lakeview, ubicada en 1120 Woodfield Road, Rockville Centre, Nueva York 11570. Las solicitudes completas deben ser recibidas por la Biblioteca Pública de Lakeview al menos siete (7) días antes de la elección si la papeleta se enviará por correo al votante, o un (1) día antes de la elección si la papeleta se entregará personalmente al votante. Las papeletas de voto en ausencia deben recibirse en la Biblioteca Pública de Lakeview a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. del 2 de diciembre de 2025. Una lista de todas las personas a quienes se les habrán emitido papeletas de voto en ausencia estará disponible para su inspección en la oficina administrativa de la Biblioteca Pública de Lakeview entre las 10 a. m. y las 5 p. m. de cada uno de los cinco (5) días anteriores al día de la elección, excepto los domingos, y entre las 10 a. m. y las 5 p. m. y las 12 del mediodía del sábado anterior a las elecciones. Dicha lista también estará disponible para su consulta en el centro de votación durante la elección de los miembros de la Junta Directiva.

Por Orden de la Junta Directiva del Distrito de la Biblioteca Pública de Lakeview.

Fecha: 15 de octubre de 2025

Rockville Centre, Nueva York

Biblioteca Pública de Lakeview

Secretario de Distrito 156794

LIBRARY DISTRICT OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF THE LAKEVIEW PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT:

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in accordance with Chapter 403 of the Laws of the State of New York for 1977, an election will be held in the Lakeview Public Library District on December 2, 2025, the polls to be opened between the hours of 4 p.m. o’clock and 10 o’clock p.m. standard time, at the Lakeview Public Library, 1120 Woodfield, Rockville Centre, New York , in said District for the purpose of electing one (1) Library Trustee, one for a term of five (5 ) years to succeed Andrea Maddison which term expires on the 31st day of December 2025. The voting will be by paper ballot. The polls will opened at 4:00 p.m. and remain opened until 10:00 p.m. and as much longer as may be necessary to enable the voters then present to cast their ballot.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that pursuant to a resolution adopted at a meeting of the Trustees of the Lakeview Public Library District held on the 15th day of October 2025, candidates for Library Trustee shall file their names with the District Clerk at the Lakeview Public Library, 1120 Woodfield Road, Rockville Centre, New York, at least ten (10) days prior to the date of such election, subscribed by twentyfive (25) qualified electors (as defined below) of the District. A qualified elector is a person who is registered to vote and who has resided in the Library District at least 30 days prior to the Library District election. Only resident qualified electors are eligible to hold office of Library Trustee or to vote at a Library District election. Petition forms are available at the Library. NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that applications for absentee ballots for the Lakeview Public Library election may be made

at the Lakeview Public Library at 1120 Woodfield Road, Rockville Centre, New York 11570. Completed applications must be received by the Lakeview Public Library at least seven (7) days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter or one (1) day before the election; if the ballot is to be personally delivered to the voter. Absentee ballots must be received at the Lakeview Public Library no later than 5:00 p.m. on December 2, 2025.

A list of all persons to whom absentee ballots shall have been issued will be available for inspection in the administrative office of the Lakeview Public Library between the hours of 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on each of the five (5) days prior to the day of the election except Sundays, and between the hours of 10a.m. and 12 noon on the Saturday prior to the election, and such list will also be available for inspection at the polling place at the election of members of the Board of Trustees. By Order of the Board of Trustees of the Lakeview Public Library District.

Dated: October 15th, 2025

Rockville Centre, New York Lakeview Public Library District Clerk 156792

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: BOWA Ventures, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 11/5/2025. NY Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as an agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: 91 Dorchester Rd, Rockville Centre, NY 11570

Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity. 156729

Remembering the Bristol and Mexico ship sinkings

By EESHA BUTT Correspondant

Historian Art Mattson recounted the twin tragedies of the Bristol and Mexico shipwrecks — two disasters that claimed more than 200 immigrant lives along Long Island’s coast in the winter of 1836–37 — at The Philips House on Nov. 5.

“We had two ships nearly weeks apart that sank, carrying 215 people combined,” said Thomas Hodge, Philips House trustee.

Mattson’s book “Water and Ice,” discusses the two shipwrecks in deep detail and was featured in the discussion.

“A group of people buried 139 of them, and that’s what this is all about today, telling about that tragedy,” Hodge said.

The two events are often discussed together due to its similarities and how close both horrific events were from one another.

About 20 attendees gathered to hear Mattson’s lecture, which began with a discussion of the Bristol shipwreck.

“It was a beautiful day in November when a huge wave hit the ship,” Mattson said.

Out of the 144 passengers on board, 100 died. Negligence of the crew and pilots was to blame, according to authorities.

“A 100 lives were lost because they were at a picnic, and weren’t out to move the ships in,” Mattson said.

Noting the historical aspect of the Mexico sinking Mattson said: “The wreck of Mexico was the largest loss of accidental life in the history of the United States, at the time.”

Raynor “Rock” Smith led the rescue efforts. He was able to save some passengers. Out of the 123 passengers on

board, 115 died. Charles Winslow, the ship’s captain, was one of the few survivors who abandoned his crewmembers, saving himself and his prize possessions.

Passengers being stranded on a sandbar roughly 200 yards off Long Beach’s east coast is considered the reason that fewer people survived the Mexico sinking compared to the Bristol. The water’s frigid temperature played a huge part in the deaths of both boats passengers.

“The temperature was 3 degrees above zero,” Mattson said. “You could hear the screams of the women and children, mostly the high pitched, coming from 200 yards away.”

In 1840 a monument was erected at the Rockville Cemetery at the Mariner’s Burying Ground in remembrance of the victims of both wrecks.

“I’m from Ireland and didn’t know about this till six years ago,” Rockville Centre resident, Donna Quinn said. “I didn’t know they had this monument so now we go to every anniversary.”

The monument is also a burial ground with the bodies of 139 victims.

“I started crying, it’s sad to think about. I am Irish and I feel an injustice for those Irish people on these ships,” Rockville Centre resident Cathleen Cavanagh said.

Both ships were carrying Irish immigrants, coming to America to seek a better life for themselves and their families, only to be met with a tragic fate.

“They all literally froze to death or drowned,” said Mary Bossart, a Philips House trustee.

Mattson answered questions and signed editions of “Water and Ice.”

“We are “the people of the sea,” so this local story is something we all should care about,” Rockville Centre resident, Carol Zinser said.

Costs have gone up how much?

Q. We’re wondering what to do, whether to act now or wait to redo our kitchen and bathroom. We got estimates last spring, but thought we should wait because of the way the economy is going. Our contractor now says costs may have doubled since then. How can that be? We know some materials have gone up, but enough to nearly double? What are you seeing, since you’re involved in this, and are there any suggestions you can make? Our bathroom plumbing is leaking and our kitchen is at least 70 years old, with cabinet doors that are ready to fall off the hinges. Is there any reason to wait?

A. I doubt that, for the foreseeable future, you’ll get a great price to do the work you describe, unfortunately. We’re experiencing a “perfect storm” event in slow motion, and unless people start making themselves heard by either voicing their concerns to those with power or responding by not paying the higher prices, this spiral of rising costs is going to take time to reverse.

There are many parts to any project. Let’s start with planning. I’ve seen that many people naively believe they can just hire somebody or do the job themselves. They believe that within the walls of their home they can do anything. Well, you can — until you get caught. When trucks with a company name, a dumpster or a delivery are spotted in front of your house, a roaming official may show up to inspect, then give you an unreasonable time frame, like 14 to 30 days, to get plans submitted by a licensed architect or engineer or face fines. So you hire the professional and, little by little, learn of things you didn’t know you needed, like a permit for your air conditioning and higher costs for insulation to pass the energy code. Your design professional must submit a detailed set of energy-compliance pages showing how your new work will meet strict requirements. These are already three expenses you may not have expected. A fourth extra cost could be for legalizing, with a time-involved zoning variance, the outdoor A.C. unit if the installers never bothered to check or inform you that where they put the unit won’t pass local zoning requirements, and they avoided the permit you now need.

Now you’re ready for estimates. One will be almost double the others, because competition does that. But you want great quality and Americanmade. So the price rises back up to nearly the level of the higher bidder. Why? Labor increased due to obvious shortages of employees who will work for less. Materials were affected by tariff reactions, and energy costs have risen. Many homeowners are trying to get work done in a mild panic, so demand causes shortages in supplies, which were just catching up after the pandemic.

It may take a groundswell of people choosing not to do work to change things, but historically, prices won’t drop significantly. Good luck!

© 2025 Monte Leeper

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Local triumphs on a night Republicans didn’t expect

nassau County Republicans scored outstanding victories in last week’s elections, which, with the other exception of our neighbors in Suffolk County, were a political disaster for Republicans across the country. And those Nassau victories didn’t come easily, or without tension. Anyone who has ever jumped into the political caldron and run for elective office knows the surreal experience and anxiety of election night. Everything that could have been done has been done. It’s all over but the waiting — for either the joy of victory or the agony of defeat.

As is the tradition under county party Chairman Joe Cairo, Republicans held their electionnight gathering at the Coral House in Baldwin. The crowd began gathering about 8:30 p.m., a half-hour before the polls closed. Within an hour, the ballroom was filled to capacity. In a private room at the rear of the building, candidates and party leaders waited to receive and analyze vote tallies from the hamlets, villages, towns and cities that

comprise the nation’s oldest suburbs.

In the lead-up to election night, Nassau Republicans were as upbeat as they could be. The ticket was led by Bruce Blakeman, who was seeking re-election as county executive after a very successful first term. Blakeman had held the line on taxes and, most important, the county was judged the safest in America. Amid growing concern that the anti-police proposals of the favorite to become New York City mayor, Zohran Mamdani, would increase the crossover crime from Queens into Nassau, Blakeman’s proven propolice, anti-crime policies had strongly resonated with the Nassau electorate. To buttress his strong law-and-order stand, there were District Attorney Anne Donnelly, a career prosecutor, and Police Commissioner Pat Ryder, who stood 24/7 with his men and women in blue.

Tmore than an outside chance. Instead, barely an hour after the polls closed, Democrat Abigail Spanberger was declared the winner in what appeared to be a landslide. Not a good omen.

he election wasn’t proving to be the quick knockout that we anticipated.

But New Jersey would be different, we thought. Polls had shown Republican Jack Ciattarelli closing the gap on Democrat Mikie Sherrill (whom I’d served with in Congress). The final pre-election polls showed Sherrill with just a 2-point lead, and Ciattarelli having all the momentum. Instead, as soon as the state’s polls closed, Sherrill jumped to an immediate lead, which steadily grew.

was always a commanding presence at these moments, had not yet appeared. Shortly after 10 p.m., he entered the room, explaining that he was “under the weather” and been feeling rotten all day. He did, however, have numbers showing that with about 60 percent of the votes counted, Republicans were holding all our current offices, and might possibly pick up one or two more. There was a huge sigh of relief.

But all did not go smoothly on election night. The Nassau results came in slowly, so our attention was focused on the governors’ races in New Jersey and Virginia as possible indicators of what Nassau’s results might be. While the Virginia race had been expected to lean Democratic, Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears was thought to have

Then, just after 9 p.m., there was more bad news. Mamdani was headed to a clear victory over former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, as Curtis Sliwa siphoned off votes that might have made the difference. In Nassau the votes were still barely trickling in, and all we could see was a blue wave everywhere. There was a feeling of foreboding about what might await us amid reports that the turnout in some Republican areas had been less than expected. This night wasn’t proving to be the quick knockout victory that had been anticipated.

Adding to the concern, Cairo, who

Cairo cautioned, though, that the night wasn’t over until all the votes were counted, saying, “There’s nothing more meaningless than the score at halftime.” About a half-hour later, he returned to announce that the Republican trend had continued. In fact, we had swept every contested seat on the City Council in Long Beach, where Democratic voters have a 7-1 majority, for the first time since 1971.

About 11:30, led by Blakeman and Cairo, Republicans made their way through the Coral House ballroom onto the stage to claim victory, to acknowledge the roaring crowd and to thank them for their efforts and support. Another election night was in the books. It wasn’t easy, but the blue wave had been stopped at the Nassau border!

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

Getting elected looks easy. Governing is the hard part.

The die is cast. New York City will have a new mayor, Zohran Mamdani. But it’s one thing to campaign for public office, and another thing altogether to run one of the biggest cities in the world, with a demanding populace and innumerable challenges. It reminds me of the Robert Redford movie “The Candidate.”

On the morning after he succeeds in winning his senatorial election, Redford’s character, Bill McKay, asks, “What do we do now?”

Having observed a number of mayoral contests, I feel qualified to opine on what first steps a new mayor must take that will make or break his years in office. While there are many positions that Mamdani must fill starting Jan. 1, the most important one is budget director. New York City has a somewhat shaky financial picture, and having someone who can crunch the numbers and package the spending plan will be life or death for him.

The next-most-visible job is that of police commissioner. The New York City Police Department currently has an intelligent and respected leader in Jessica Tisch, who has served with distinction since November 2024. Prior to that she was commissioner of the city Department of Sanitation, where she won the respect of union leaders, who admired her smarts and her approach to the job.

At this stage, Tisch has nothing new to prove. She works well with the police rank-and-file, and has never run afoul of law enforcement unions. She could easily take a job in the private sector and get a big pat on the back for a job well done. On the other hand, she may be willing to continue in the police commissioner’s job until such time as the mayor asks her to take some action that she finds objectionable.

on departmental staffing levels. During the mayoral campaign, both former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Mamdani pledged to hire 5,000 new patrolmen, a pledge easier made than accomplished.

M amdani, like Robert Redford’s Bill McKay, may wonder, ‘What do we do now?’

The city needs thousands of new police officers to replace the large number who have opted to retire in recent years, but building up the department isn’t an easy job. Because of the city’s low starting salaries, the pay is unattractive. Many current members of the department have decided to take jobs in the suburbs, where entry-level pay is typically much higher. A new mayor can make all kinds of promises, but the key to getting new cops is higher pay, and as few policy challenges as possible. An overbearing mayor with too many liberal policies will chill the force’s future.

I’ve heard a variety of views about Mayor Eric Adams’s record in office, and there’s no question that he has had a number of ethical issues. Key commissioners and their assistants have been forced to resign due to conflicts and questionable actions. His most ardent supporters claim that the ethics issues have been overstated, but the record is there for everyone to examine, and it doesn’t look good.

The path forward for the new mayor will be most challenging. He is a neophyte, and knows nothing about the city’s true challenges. If he chooses qualified people for his administration, their successes will speak for themselves. If he makes serious mistakes, the Republican establishment will broadcast to the entire world that “we told you so.”

Mamdani hasn’t offered many opinions on how the Police Department should operate, other than suggesting that mental health professionals should accompany officers on patrol on calls involving people with mental health issues. He hasn’t offered any opinions on such programs as Stop and Frisk, or

One of the city’s current weaknesses is its Law Department. The corporation counsel’s office is badly in need of staff to handle the thousands of challenges it faces annually. There are about a thousand people in the department, but because it’s understaffed, taxpayers wind up paying a price in lost cases.

Even though Nassau is a borderline county and Suffolk is even more distant, we need a New York City that has low crime rates and is fiscally sound. An old political sage once told me that “when New York City sneezes, Long Island catches a cold.” Let’s hope the adage doesn’t hold true.

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

Rockville centRe

Established 1990

Incorporating

The News & Owl of Rockville Centre in 2001

Kelsie RadzisKi Senior Editor

alyssa R. GRiffin

RHonda GlicKman

2

Hochul must sign police radio access bill

at a time when we are grappling with an erosion of public trust, a new threat to transparency is emerging. Across New York, police departments are encrypting their radio systems — cutting off journalists, and, by extension, the public, from critical, real-time information.

It’s not just a press freedom issue. It’s a public safety issue.

HERALD

From Atlantic Beach to Babylon, Long Islanders deserve to know what’s happening in their communities, especially during moments of crisis — a school lockdown, a shooting or a natural disaster. Instead, we are increasingly forced to rely on rumor, fragmented updates or, worse, no information at all.

In the age of social media misinformation, that’s not just frustrating. It’s dangerous.

Fortunately, state lawmakers have passed a bill that seeks to reverse this perilous trend. The legislation, S.416/A.3516, sponsored by two Democrats in the Legislature, Sen. Mike Gianaris and Assemblywoman Karines Reyes, would guarantee credentialed journalists secure, real-time access to encrypted police radio communications.

It is now on Gov. Kathy Hochul’s desk, awaiting her signature. She must sign it.

letters

Let’s hear about the other sides of Trump, Peter King

To the Editor:

I have always respected Peter King’s political opinions, although I may not have agreed with some of them. I especially appreciate his efforts in bringing about the Good Friday Agreement and peace in Northern Ireland in the late 1990s.

In his op-ed in the Oct. 30-Nov. 5 issue, “Trump has written the first chapter of a new Mideast history,” King praises President Trump, and rightly so, for his excellent work in bringing together a number of countries and leaders to bring an end to the horrific war in Gaza. Let’s hope it holds. Now, I hope King devotes a column to Trump’s actions (or lack thereof) and behavior as our “domestic” president. We are currently more than 40 days into a government shutdown in which military personal and federal workers are not being paid (but Congress is!), 42 million people have lost most of their SNAP benefits and health insurance prices will double in January. Surely our president could use his power — and he loves doing that — to bring solutions to these important issues. He could order his puppet, Mike Johnson, the speaker of the

For nearly a century, journalists have monitored police radio frequencies and alerted the public to developing emergencies. That’s how people on Long Island and beyond have learned about major accidents, crimes in progress and natural disasters. In some cases, lives have been saved thanks to timely, verified information reported by local media.

Now that lifeline is being cut off.

Proponents of encryption argue that it protects sensitive information and personal privacy. That’s a valid concern — but this legislation addresses it. Under the bill, access would be password-protected, monitored and limited to credentialed journalists. Reporters would not be able to transmit on the channels or interfere in any way. If anyone were to abuse the privilege, his or her access would be revoked. Critically sensitive communications would remain encrypted.

This is not about giving journalists a backstage pass to law enforcement. It’s about making sure the public isn’t left in the dark when seconds count.

We’ve already seen the consequences of delayed information. In Chicago, a delay in releasing police communications during a courthouse shooting in July prevented timely warnings to the

public.

Police departments that initially embraced full encryption are rethinking the policy. In 2022, the Palo Alto Police Department, in California, reversed its policy of encrypting police radio communications and restored real-time access for the public and the press. The reversal came after the department had encrypted its radio feeds in January 2021, citing a state memo that required the protection of personal identifying information.

New York should learn from that example. At a time when trust in institutions is fragile, blocking information — especially during emergencies — only fuels suspicion and confusion. It invites misinformation to fill the vacuum, and puts lives at risk.

Journalists are not adversaries of public safety. In many cases, they are its allies, helping to get accurate information to people who need it. Whether it’s a car crash that shuts down the Southern State Parkway or a threat that necessitates a school lockdown, the public has a right to know — and know quickly.

Hochul has long described herself as a defender of open government and transparency. Now she has a chance to prove it.

House, to reconvene Congress, negotiate and end this disgrace.

Also, I hope King will address the president’s manner and words in dealing with people. Shouldn’t a president try to unite people, and not mock and insult them, as he

has done on many, many occasions and probably will continue to do?

I look forward to those columns.

opinions

When Long Island changed history

Long Island is well known for its beaches, the Hamptons, our pizza places and diners. But we harbor certain secrets — places where generally unknown events shaped history in big ways.

I stumbled on one several years ago, and it triggered the writing of my newest novel, “The Einstein Conspiracy.” It’s a historic thriller based on actual events that occurred on Long Island just as the world was descending into World War II. The secret I uncovered was actually hidden in plain sight: a modest cottage overlooking a harbor on the North Fork. I’d read that Albert Einstein rented the home in the summer of 1939, and there he composed a letter to President Franklin D. Roosevelt that changed the world.

The letter itself is well known to followers of Einstein. He and a colleague,

Letters

We need journalists now more than ever

To the Editor:

Your editorial in the Oct. 16-22 issue, “Real journalists, reporting real stories,” on the vital importance of journalism, resonated with me. I subscribe to three newspapers: the Herald, Newsday and the Daily News. I am a strong believer in the First Amendment, and the power and freedom of the press. We need you now more than ever.

The skepticism for the media lies in the current regime’s constantly labeling it “fake news.” It’s only “fake” when it doesn’t conform to the regime’s edicts. The man in the White House is unilaterally imposing his will, bullying universities, corporations, law firms and the press, and sending troops into states to suppress crime that doesn’t exist.

Our democracy is fragile. We must continue to use our voices and peacefully protest the eroding of our rights and freedoms, the inhumane treatment of non-criminal immigrants, and so much more, lest we become an autocracy. I will continue to support the press, and I thank you for your truth, integrity, honesty and hard work.

MARGUERITE WESTBROOk Lynbrook

Leo Szilard, drafted it to warn FDR that Germany was researching the production of an atomic bomb, and that the science of a chain reaction leading to massive destruction was feasible. At that point, the Holocaust was expanding in intensity, and Germany was planning war across Europe. While an atom bomb in Hitler’s arsenal was unthinkable, the United States government had no serious research program.

My fascination with that cottage ignited the spinning of my own imagination. I spent two years researching Einstein’s stay on Long Island. He arrived on the North Fork on May 1, 1939, right after giving a speech on opening night of the World’s Fair in Flushing. He brought his rickety 14-foot sailboat, which was named Tinef — Yiddish for junk, trash or rubbish. He sailed the Peconic, shopped locally, strolled on the beach at Nassau Point, played the violin with the neighbors. Einstein’s life wasn’t entirely idyllic. He had fled deadly persecution by the

Nazis, including several threats on his life. In America he sought freedom and tolerance. But it wasn’t long before Hitler’s dark shadow reached him.

A fter Albert Einstein spent some quality time in a cottage here, we built the bomb.

In February 1939, a proNazi rally in Madison Square Garden attracted 20,000 people. In Yaphank, 32 miles from Einstein’s North Fork cottage, the Aryan residents of a restricted neighborhood flew swastika flags, trained children to be American storm troopers and named their roads after Hitler, Goebbels and Goering. The community campgrounds were used for pro-Nazi demonstrations and rallies. They were so popular that the Long Island Rail Road ran a train from Penn Station called the Camp Siegfried Special. Meanwhile, in New York City, the FBI pursued an extensive, widespread network of Nazi spies seeking to penetrate our military facilities, defense plants and government offices.

As a member of Congress, I occasionally dabbled in the arts of spin and embellishment. The skill came in handy

FrAmework by Tim Baker

in the writing of “The Einstein Conspiracy.” In the weeks after my first encounter with the old Einstein cottage — now privately owned — I began my own spinning of a novel that pits two FBI agents against a Nazi undercover agent trying to stop Einstein from warning Roosevelt about Hitler’s bomb. It’s based on real places, people and events.

Nearly three months after Einstein and Szilard began drafting their letter, it was finally delivered to FDR on their behalf. A mutual friend insisted on reading it aloud in the Oval Office. The president responded, “What you are after is to see that the Nazis don’t blow us up.” That night, a committee was formed to coordinate a response. An embryonic atomic research program was organized to race Adolf Hitler to an atom bomb.

In time, it became known as the Manhattan Project.

Conceived right here, on Long Island.

Steve Israel represented Long Island in Congress for 16 years, and now owns Theodore’s Books in Oyster Bay. Information on his latest novel is available at einsteinconspiracy.com. He is currently on a national book tour.

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