The streets of Sea Cliff will come alive once more with music, artistry, and food, as thousands are expected to enjoy the 53rd annual Kiwanis Sea Cliff Mini Mart on Sunday, Oct. 5.
Mini Mart returns for 53rd year
Annual street fair blends food, art, and community spirit
By lUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com
The streets of Sea Cliff will come alive once more with music, artistry, and food, as thousands are expected to enjoy the 53rd annual Kiwanis Sea Cliff Mini Mart on Sunday, Oct. 5.
Mini Mart, held on the first Sunday in October and scheduled this year for Oct. 5 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., has become a hallmark of the North Shore. The event annually attracts more than 12,000 visitors to Sea Cliff Avenue, where over 200 retail vendors and artisans showcase a wide range of handcrafted goods, original artwork, specialty items, and unique retail finds for holiday shopping.
It is one of the biggest fundraisers for North Shore Kiwanis, a chapter of Kiwanis International that has served the community for over 55 years. Its mission is to improve the lives of children through service projects, scholarships, and partnerships with local nonprofits.
Kiwanis President Chris Salmon described the day as having a festival atmosphere. “People love it, being there, walking up and down the streets, seeing the vendors,” the 70-year-old Glen Cove resident said, explaining between the music, food, and beverage options for attendees in various locations, “the whole day is like a big party.”
The origins of the Mini Mart date back to
Sea Cliff local is knighted
Victoria Bjorklund honored with France’s highest civilian award, Légion d’Honneur
By lUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com
Sea Cliff resident Victoria Bjorklund has loved France — and knights — since she was a child. This month, both passions came together in a way she never expected. She was named a Knight of the Légion d’Honneur, France’s highest civilian honor.
“I’ve loved France since I was a kid,” said Bjorklund, 73, who was recognized for her decades of work strengthening French-American ties.
To be recognized as a knight — when my passion, from a 12-year-old on, was knights — it’s just amazing.
VicToRia BjoRKlUNd Sea Cliff resident
She was also a founding board member of Le Fonds de Dotation du Louvre, and currently serves on the boards of the Robin Hood Foundation, the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, and the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. She previously served on Princeton University’s board, and continues to co-chair its Planned Giving Advisory Committee. The award was created by Napoleon Bonaparte while he served as the country’s First Consul for Life in 1802. It recognizes exceptional civil and military contributions of outstanding merit to France. Recipients do not know they are nominated, and their nomination must come from French ministers or by members of the Legion of Honour itself. The French president must approve all nominations. Friends of Fondation de COnTinued On page 14
Bjorklund has had a prolific career. A founding member of Princeton University’s first women’s basketball team, a former scholar of the Anglo-Norman dialect spoken by Viking invaders in Norman France, co-founder of Doctors Without Borders USA and founder of the Tax Exempt Organizations Group at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett, an international law firm based in New York City that specializes in litigation and corporate practices.
North Shore Kiwanis
Sea Cliff
53rd Annual Mini Mart
Sunday, October 5, 2025 • 10 am – 5 pm Rain or Shine
THINGS TO KNOW SEA CLIFF BOT MEETING
Public hearings, meetings and planning for the future
From zoning changes to tax relief for volunteer firefighters, the Sea Cliff Board of Trustees addressed several issues at its latest meeting on Sept. 8, the board’s next meeting is Oct. 6 at Village Hall. Here are three key takeaways from the meeting.
Sea Cliff Avenue, Sea Cliff, NY
Come and Enjoy over 200 unique
Local Craft and Retail Vendors, Community and Non-Profit Groups, Delicious Tempting Foods & Sounds by Local Musicians!
A Festival with Purpose!
Sea Cliff Mini Mart is a Kiwanis community tradition—Where every step you take helps support every booth you visit:
• Scholarships for Local Students
• Back to School Winter Clothing & Supplies
• Kamp Kiwanis Experiences for Children
• Support for Local Families
• Kiwanis Pediatric Trauma Center
FREE ADMISSION!
Free parking at Tappen Beach (Shore Road)
Free shuttle buses from Tappen Beach, 10 am – 6 pm
For the safety of your dog, children, and vendors: No dogs permitted (except service dogs)!!! Together with Kiwanis, your presence makes a difference!
n Zoning public meeting coming up
Mayor Elena Villafane announced a Zoning Community Meeting will take place on Monday, Sept. 29 at 7 p.m. at St. Luke’s Parish Hall. The last comprehensive update of the Sea Cliff Zoning Regulations was conducted in 1979, a few years after the previous Village Master Plan was adopted in 1970.
The new village plan, adopted in September 2023, outlined a number of recommendations seeking to address and guide new development and redevelopment within the community in an environmentally sustainable manner while also meeting the service demands that come with community growth.
New York State legislation requires that zoning be undertaken “in accordance with a Comprehensive Plan”. With this Zoning Regulations Update, the Village aims to codify the recommendations and objectives identified in the Comprehensive Plan to align the Zoning Code with the current Plan.Residents can learn more and follow updates at SeaCliffZoningUpdate.com.
n Firefighter tax exemption heads to public hearing.
The Board of Trustees are moving forward on a potential property tax exemption for volunteer firefighters. Sea Cliff already offers a 10% property tax exemption to qualifying volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers, according to Village Code.
However, statewide legislation was passed in 2022 allowing any municipality to offer a 10 percent property tax exemption to volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers. The new law originally required municipalities, like the Village of Sea Cliff, to pass their own local laws conforming to the statewide standard by this date. If they did not, their existing, pre-2022 exemptions would have expired. The village is working on crafting its updated exemption for first responders. A public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 14 at 7 p.m. at Sea Cliff Village Hall to gather input from residents.
Garden reception approved
The board approved a facility use request from the Friends of the Sea Cliff Museum to host an exhibit opening reception in the Centennial Garden on Thursday, Sept. 26.
Friends of the Sea Cliff Museum is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the Sea Cliff Village Museum. It was established to strengthen the museum’s ties with the community and advance its mission as a center for lifelong learning, information, and culture by providing financial assistance for archival supplies, exhibit expens-
The Centennial Garden located near Village Hall, features annuals and perennials and serves as a focal point for local events, such as the Village Museum’s exhibits and the Sea Cliff Civic Association’s “Scrooge Stroll.”For more information, head to the museum’s web-
News Brief items including awards, honors, promotions and other tidbits about local residents are welcome. Photographs may be emailed as well. Deadline for submissions is noon Thursday, week prior to publication.Send to execeditor@liherald.com
— Luke Feeney
The ceremony began at 8:46 a.m. in front of the memorial clock at the Sea Cliff Children’s Library, which is the village’s memorial to the victims of the attacks.
Sea Cliff honors victims of 9/11 attacks
By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com
Sea Cliff honored the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks with its annual memorial ceremony in front of the memorial clock at the Sea Cliff Children’s Library.
The ceremony, which observed the 24th anniversary of the attacks, began at 8:46 a.m., the same time hijackers crashed American Airlines Flight 11 into floors 93 through 99 of the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Around 40 residents attended, while several local officials delivered remarks about the day.
Sea Cliff Mayor Elena Villafane spoke about the importance of remembering the attacks and honoring those lost.
“There is a generation of kids who have been born since that day,” she said, explaining that many view the attacks as distant history.
She added that it’s vital for young people to “understand and remember,” adding that it places “responsibilities on all of us to never forget and to talk to our children and grandchildren of our memories of that day.”
The event opened with a welcome, followed by a prayer from the Rev. Jesse Lebus of Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church in Sea Cliff. Rabbi Irwin Huberman, of Congregation Tifereth Israel in Glen Cove, offered reflections on loss and gratitude.
“We cherished that it can be taken away from us at a blink, or in a few moments through an airplane,” Huberman said, adding that the attacks “helped us understand what an amazing country this is and will always be.”
Sea Cliff resident Cathy Virgilio sang “Amazing Grace,” and following the mayor’s remarks, the bell in front of the village hall and library rang. The ceremony concluded with a performance of “Taps.”
The idea for the memorial came when former Village Trustee Phil Como observed a fundraising effort to install the clock at the Children’s Library.
Como asked then-Village Administrator Dan Maddock if it could serve as the location for Sea Cliff’s 9/11 memorial. Como read the poem “No Man Is an Island” by John Donne. The time on the clock remains frozen at 8:46 a.m., a tribute to the moment the attacks began.
Sea Cliff joined the countless tributes throughout Long Island and the country to the victims of the Sept. 11 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center.
Courtesy Peter Budraitis photos
Local officials and leaders, including Mayor Elena Villafane as well as Rabbi Irwin Huberman, of Congregation Tifereth Israel, delivered remarks about the day’s impact and legacy.
Around 40 residents attended the ceremony, which observed the 24th anniversary of the attacks, on Sea Cliff Avenue.
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2. Takes a social approach to estate planning by fleshing out potential sources of conflict ahead of time and taking steps to prevent discord and preserve family harmony.
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GREETING MESSAGE
The remaining days of our lives
Astatistic that recently occurred to me will either upset or empower you.
After performing some quick math, I realized that if each of us possesses the capacity to live into our late 80s, we will wake up about 32,000 times.
For many of us, our early days passed in a flash.
We were busy having fun, establishing and maintaining relationships, building careers, raising families, and navigating this often-challenging world.
Understanding that, in Judaism, this is the time of year to ponder that reality. For indeed, Judaism is less a faith and more a system of living.
Jewish holidays have helped pace us, providing us with opportunities to rejoice, express gratitude, acknowledge sadness and celebrate freedom.
Rather than chase the next passion or experience, how can we pursue meaning in our lives?
And perhaps most importantly, what is holding us back?
And so, on Rosh Hashanah, which launches the 10-day period culminating on Yom Kippur, we ask, “Are there things we need to let go of?”
“Are there times when I lose my patience too quickly?”
“Who am I holding responsible for my own situation?”
The late newspaper columnist Ann Landers, defined holding onto these negative feelings as having someone “live rent-free in your head.” Indeed, do our grudges come with an expiry date? And is that date now?
And once a year for a 10-day span, Judaism observes a period to ponder our very existence. In short, it asks, “Why are we here – and what are we supposed to be doing with our lives?”
The Talmud, our collection of ancient laws and stories, asks this question and answers in the words of the Prophet Micah – only to “do justice, love goodness and walk humbly with your God.”
On Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, we take these three concepts a bit deeper: How many of our 32,000 days do we have left? And during that precious time, how can we do the most good for ourselves, our family, our community and the world?
■ WEB SITES: seacliff.liherald.com glenhead.liherald.com
It doesn’t make that recent or past act acceptable, but it asks, whether it is helping us -- in the long run – to hold on to it.
More than anything, it reminds us that we have a few thousand days remaining in our lifetime.
How do we wish to spend it –within an environment of blame or deflection – or with an attitude of positivity and forgiveness that will carry us in peace for the rest of our days.
Rosh Hashanah presents us with options. Shall we embrace life’s blessings or perceived curses?
Ultimately, during this time of the year, our tradition teaches, “the choice is ours.”
Rabbi Irwin Huberman is the spiritual leader of Congregation Tifereth Israel in Glen Cove.
E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: seacliffeditor@liherald.com, glenheadeditor@liherald.com
■ PUBlIC NOTICES: Ext. 232 E-mail: legalnotices@liherald.com
R abbi i Rwin H ube R man
With new Time-of-Day Rates, 3 PM to 7 PM is now “me time.” By doing chores that use a lot of electricity before or after those hours on weekdays, you take advantage of the times when energy costs less to produce. So, think laundry at 12 PM. Read a book or catch up on emails at 4 PM. Dishes at 8 PM. It’s all about timing your savings and saving your time. Some of the appliances that use the most energy are shown below. For the complete
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JAYDEN MOYA
MALVERNE Senior SOCCER
IT’S IMPOSSIBLE TO tell Malverne/East Rockaway’s boys’ soccer team is coming off a winless 2024 campaign. To say the Rockin’ Mules have enjoyed an incredible start would be an understatement. Moya has been front and center of a club with four wins in its first five matches. He leads Nassau County in goals with 12 and has three or more games with at least a hat trick. He scored 5 times in wins over Valley Stream South and Clarke.
GAMES TO WATCH
Friday, Sept. 19
Girls Soccer: Manhasset at Carey 3 p.m.
Girls Soccer: Mepham at Calhoun 5 p.m.
Girls Soccer: South Side at Oceanside 5
Football: Farmingdale at Oceanside 6 p.m.
Football: South Side at Division 6 p.m.
Football: New Hyde Park at East Meadow 6:30 p.m.
Girls Volleyball: Freeport at Baldwin 6:45 p.m.
Football: Long Beach at Glen Cove 7 p.m.
Football: Plainedge at C.S. Harbor 7 p.m.
Football: Lynbrook at Carle Place 7:15 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 20
Football: Floral Park at Carey 11:00 a.m.
Boys Soccer: Lynbrook at Plainedge 12 p.m.
Football: Wantagh at Elmont 12:30 p.m.
Football: V.S. North at Hewlett 1 p.m.
Football: Baldwin at Garden City 2 p.m.
Football: Roosevelt at Calhoun 2 p.m.
Football: Lawrence at East Rockaway 2 p.m.
Football: Roslyn at Kennedy 2 p.m.
Football: West Hempstead at Malverne 2 p.m.
Football: Sewanhaka at V.S. South 2 p.m.
Football: MacArthur at Mepham 3 p.m.
Football: Port Washington at Freeport 3 p.m.
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a fall sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
Adjustment phase for North Shore
By MARC BERMAN sports@liherald.com
When the North Shore girls’ soccer team faced Seaford on Sept. 6 and got walloped, 7-1, it was a reminder things are different for the Vikings.
There is a first-year coach in Jaden Galluzzo, who inherits a squad that lost seven key seniors. The Vikings had a phenomenal 2024 season, winning Conference AB with a 7-2-1 record.
New-look North Shore is off to a 1-3 start. The bright spots have been seniors Erin Lily La Rosa and Isabel Guerrero. They each have netted two goals.
“We definitely have a younger squad,’’ Galluzzo said. “Our main issue we’re having is team chemistry because of the age gap. It’s gotten better. As first-year coach, I’ve had to set the tone and make sure they are ready. It’s the main priority because they’re such a young squad.’’
The Seaford defeat was an eye-opener to the girls from last season’s ambitious squad. “Mental fitness is a huge thing for us,’’ Galluzzo said. “That game destroyed us a little mentally. I’m trying to build them back up. Instead of dwelling on the loss. (It’s) learning from it.’’
The Maroon could still be adjusting to former coach Lauren Gotta’s resignation. Gotta was a high-school soccer head coach for 20 years, the last 13 in Sea Cliff/Glen Head. Gotta said she needed more time for her four daughters who’ve started school sports. Gotta now coaches the JV. “It was a hard decision, but I’m a mom
Spring Harbor for win No. 1 of 2025.
first,’’ Gotta said. Galluzzo has solid coaching credentials, part of the Sousa Academy staff. Her assistant is Donatella Tocco, a former North Shore soccer standout. “I’m very familiar with coaching at a high level,’’ Galluzzo said.
But Galluzzo has tried to temper expectations.
“It’s definitely tough considering they had such a great season last year,’’ Galluzzo said. “We lost almost everyone. Coming in, I made it transparent with the parents already what the season
could look like. I’ve been overcommunicating with the players and parents making sure they don’t think it’s a player or coaching error.
“This season will be about building that bond with the players and coaches. Hopefully we start to come together more as a team and grow together.’’
Isabel and La Rosa are two of the Vikings’ three seniors. The other is centerback Catherine Perciballi. “She’s a good player, good captain and good role model for the girls,’’ Galluzzo said of Perciballi.
The offense is centered on La Rosa, a forward, and Isabel, a midfielder. “(La Rosa) is very good with the ball at her feet,’’ Galluzzo said. “She’s aggressive and strong on the ball. Isabel is the playmaker. She takes all the free kicks, corners. Both are a huge part of our team.’’
La Rosa notched a goal in each of the last two games, against Seaford and its lone win over Cold Spring Harbor, 1-0, Sept. 9.
Goalkeeper Charlotte Healy has allowed 4 goals in the three non-Seaford games. “She’s very consistent, besides the Seaford game, but made a lot of saves that game as well,’’ Galluzzo said.
North Shore starts an eighth-grader, defender Despina Tzournas. Attacking center Alessia Marotta and outside back Kashvi Bhogadi are key contributors.
Galluzzo has a system in which the emphasis is “keeping the ball on the ground’’ with passes. Moving the ball with few turnovers has been the team’s staple amid a building season.
Sue Grieco/Herald
Senior Erin Lily La Rosa had the lone goal Sept. 9 as the Vikings defeated Cold
City’s fall soccer season begins with parade
By ROKSANA AMID ramid@liherald.com
The Glen Cove Junior Soccer League opened its fall season last Saturday with a parade through the city, followed by the first games of the year. Children marched in their team uniforms, many carrying country flags that matched their teams, before heading to the fields.
Although the program is headquartered in Glen Cove, it has become a regional draw. “It serves the entire community. Everyone is welcome to register and participate from anywhere,” said league president James Greenberg. “We have kids as far away as Uniondale, Bayville, Locust Valley, you know, the surrounding areas. But we also have kids that come from Elmont, all over town.”
The league runs two sessions annually. “We have a fall season and a spring season,” Greenberg said. “During the fall season, it’s a larger program. We play at City Stadium, and most of the kids play twice a week. They play during the week, in the evening, because we have lights at Maccarone Stadium, and then they play on Saturday.”
This year, the fall program features 48 teams, from the Pre-K “Tiny Tots” division beginning at age three, through eighth grade. Divisions are split by gender beginning in first grade. “For the beginning of the season, we emphasize
learning the kids to have fun. Every child gets to play, whether they mispractice or what have you,” Greenberg said. “We don’t keep a record. We don’t keep standings. We just want the coaches to concentrate on teaching the kids.”
The fall season culminates with Soccer Fest, set for Nov. 1. “It starts at 8 in the morning and it ends at 7 o’clock at
night. It’s a full one-day tournament,” Greenberg said. Teams compete in uniforms representing countries, with sponsors helping offset costs.
Between intramural and travel divisions, the league has grown to more than 700 players. “All of the volunteers, even in the travel program, we’re all volunteers. No one’s paid,” Greenberg
said.
Spring registration will open in early October, and remains open through February 2026. Families can sign up online or in person during fall events, including Soccer Fest. “The cost is only $80, around $80 or $90. It ends up being like $10 per game, which is pretty affordable for a fun season,” Greenberg said.
Courtesy Roni Jenkins Photos
The Glen Cove Jr. Soccer league kicked off its season last Saturday with a parade.
Volunteer intramural and travel soccer coach and new board member Kevin Hernandez starts the season with Team Portugal.
Intramural soccer players on Team England are sponsored by The Med Station. They sponsor a boys and girls team.
Sea Cliff fair brings out crowds, creativity
1964, when then–Mayor Edward Stiles sought to put Sea Cliff “on the map” as an arts destination. Resident and artist Madeline Kle organized “A Square Mile of Art,” which drew thousands and established Sea Cliff’s reputation as a creative, welcoming community.
When the growing fair became difficult to manage, the North Shore Kiwanis Club stepped in to help. Since then, Kiwanis, partnering with the Village, has kept this beloved tradition thriving for over five decades. “We’re hoping for good weather and good spirits,” Salmon said, “as we’ve always had in the past.”
Mayor Elena Villanfane wrote in a press release that Mini Mart “is one of our village’s most cherished traditions,” and added that “It brings neighbors together, supports local artists and businesses, and showcases the spirit of community that makes Sea Cliff so special.”
A complimentary shuttle bus will run continuously from Tappan Beach between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., during the day stopping at both Prospect and Carpenter Avenues. Visitors are strongly encouraged to take advantage of this service. The combination of narrow streets, vendor setups, and large crowds is why according to organizers, dogs are
of organizing and preparation. “There’s just a very good vibe around the mini mart,” Lisa Larsen Hill, mini mart event planner and volunteer for the past
a festival with a purpose,” the 69-yearold added, “It’s not just a street fair.”
Hill’s husband, Roger, echoed his wife’s sentiments; the 74-year-old described Mini Mart as a great community event with a “definitive purpose,” adding that “once you get there, no mat-
ter where you live, you’ll keep coming back.”
Proceeds from the event enable North Shore Kiwanis to sustain several of its community programs, such as its Klothes/Koats/Kicks for Kids, which provides clothing and sneakers for children in need; the Kiwanis Pediatric Trauma Center which offers critical support for children’s health; the Kamp Kiwanis for Children, a summerlong camp for kids and adults; scholarships for local students and partnerships with organizations like the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Mama’s House, and NOSH, serving families with food and care.
North Shore Kiwanis Board member Doug Barnaby has attended every Mini Mart since 1972. The 83-year-old explained that the event evolved from a craft-focused fair to a more commercial and social gathering over the decades.
“It’s becoming more of a happening than it was years ago,” Barnaby said, “it became a merchandise exchange type of thing, as opposed to people selling their handmade items.”
Despite the change, however, Barnaby still remains steadfast in his love for the annual fair. “It’s nice for the community to get together and just meander around the different booths and see what they have to offer,” he said, “buy a hot dog or a hamburger or get a soda, a beer. It’s just a fun day.”
Herald file photo
Mini Mart, held on the first Sunday in October and scheduled this year for Oct. 5 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., has become a hallmark of the North Shore.
Nassau County marks Sept. 11 anniversary
Nassau County paused to remember the lives lost on Sept. 11, 2001, as hundreds gathered at Eisenhower Park last week for the 24th anniversary of the attacks. The annual memorial service, held at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, combined music, reflection and solemn tributes against the backdrop of the county’s lakeside memorial.
The ceremony featured remarks from county leaders, including Executive Bruce Blakeman, as well as parents who lost children in the attacks. Chris Macchio, an internationally recognized tenor, led the audience in musical performances that underscored the evening’s tone of remembrance.
At the heart of the memorial are two semi-transparent aluminum towers symbolizing the fallen World Trade Center, alongside the inscribed names of 344 Nassau County residents who perished that day.
–Jordan Vallone
Tim Baker/Herald photos
Nassau County residents and first responders commemorated the 24th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks at a moving ceremony in Eisenhower Park.
Maria Mittel of Wantagh reflected on the day while looking at the park’s memorial.
Chris Grillo, who is the U.S. Army and grew up in Hickville, in front of the park’s memorial.
Susan Hutchins, held up a photo of her son, Kevin Colbert, during the ceremony.
Residents young and old paid their respects. Roy Xu, 17-months, of Westbury, laid flowers on Eisenhower Park’s memorial.
First L.I. Heroes breakfast set for Oct. 22
By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com
A celebration of Long Island heroes is back — with a twist. On Oct. 22, the annual event hosted by the American Red Cross on Long Island will take place in the morning: The inaugural two-hour breakfast will be held at the Heritage Club at Bethpage, in Farmingdale, at 8 a.m.
And after years of having three or so honorees, the Red Cross will honor six heroes in categories including Community Impact Hero, First Responder Hero, Global Citizenship Hero, Disaster Hero and Military Hero. “This was just brought to our attention by our wonderful board and volunteers saying, ‘There are a lot more people that deserve some recognition,’” the organization’s CEO, Jose Dominguez, said.
Luv Michael is the Community Impact Hero honoree this year. Founded in 2015, Luv Michael is a nonprofit created by Michael Kessaris and his parents, Dr. Dimitri Kessaris and Dr. Lisa Liberatore, which is dedicated to producing meaningful work and independent living opportunities for young adults on the autism spectrum.
This year’s First Responder Heroes are Officers Timothy Deegan and Matthew Walling. These graduates of the
Nassau County Police Academy demonstrated exceptional bravery on Jan. 5, when they responded to an off-duty crash involving a fellow officer, and swiftly provided lifesaving care while awaiting EMS.
Dr. Tochi Iroku-Malize is the Global Citizenship Hero being honored. The president of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the founding chair of the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Iroku-Malize dedicated her career
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to expanding accessibility to family medicine and shaping a more inclusive future for health care.
The Disaster Hero of the year is Jennifer Keane. When a referee collapsed mid-game, Keane quickly prepared an automated external defibrillator and made a lifesaving intervention. As an athletic director and a certified athletic trainer, she had the ability to stay in control under pressure.
Mel Cohen is this year’s Military Hero honoree. A U.S. Air Force veteran
and a retired Suffolk County police officer, Cohen has spent his life serving the community in honor of his brother Gerald, who died in Vietnam. He supports veterans across New York state, as well as Gold Star families, while staying active in various organizations including Vietnam Veterans of America and Wreaths Across America.
Along with the six honorees, two teens will be honored as Youth Heroes. Charlie Dubofsky and Sydney Hassenbein founded the HERO Project, a peersupport group for grieving students, after both experienced personal losses. The group allows middle and high school students to experience and share their grief in a safe space.
Active on Long Island for over 100 years, the American Red Cross on Long Island continues to serve the area and recognize its local heroes. “The mission of the Red Cross is to alleviate human suffering in so many different categories,” Dominguez said. “It is possible through the generosity of our donors and the time of our volunteers.”
All proceeds raised during the fundraiser will allow the Red Cross to continue its mission of helping those affected by disasters like hurricanes, fires and other crises. For more information on the organization and on attending the event, visit RedCross.org/LIHeroes.
Courtesy American Red Cross on Long Island
The 2024 L.I. Celebration honorees, from left, Anthony Lagos, Jon Ledecky and Kevin J. Losse, at the gala.
Thousands turn out for city’s biggest street fair
By ROKSANA AMID ramid@liherald.com
The City of Glen Cove’s annual Street Fair drew its largest crowd yet on Sept. 15, filling downtown streets with music, food and family fun.
Presented in partnership with Nassau County Fairs, the event attracted thousands of visitors throughout the day. More than 90 vendors set up along Glen Street, offering a mix of crafts, food and specialty items. Families also enjoyed children’s attractions including a bounce castle, pony rides, face painting and a petting zoo.
Live entertainment kept the fair buzzing from morning into late afternoon. Hometown favorites The Jam Brothers opened the music lineup, performing from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Their upbeat set had fairgoers singing and dancing in the streets. Later in the day,
Matt Pinto & Friends took the stage from 2 to 5 p.m., closing out the fair with crowd-pleasing classics.
A highlight of the day was the Glen Cove Junior Soccer League parade, which kicked off right through the heart of the fair. Young players marched with their teams and later returned with families to enjoy the festivities.
Mayor Pamela Panzenbeck said the turnout reflected the city’s strong sense of community. “It’s wonderful to see so many families come together downtown,” she said. “The fair just keeps growing every year.”
Organizers credited the increased number of vendors and expanded activities for drawing a record-breaking audience. They called the event one of the city’s most successful community gatherings, reinforcing its role as a staple of the late-summer calendar.
Joanne Yee/ Herald Photos
The Glen Cove Street fait featured 90 vendors across School; and Glen Streets.
Bayville residents Having Chen,9, Rachael Chen, Hajoon Chen,6, came to Glen Cove to enjoy the city’s street fair. Joe Ross, General Manager at Smok-Haus served savory meals.
Decades of transatlantic work recognized
France, a public charity established in 2000 to provide an efficient and cost-effective way for American individuals, families, corporations, and foundations to give to nonprofits in France, Europe and around the world nominated Bjorklund for the knighthood.
Bjorklund provided legal support to create the charity and has served as Secretary of its Board of Directors for the past quarter-century. “Lawyers are not generally people who get celebrated,” she said, “They’re the folks behind the scenes doing the legal plumbing.”
She recalled feeling “flabbergasted,” when Domitille Marchal Lemoine, executive director of the Friends of Fondation de France’s American branch told her over the phone on Aug. 20 that she had received the award. “I had tears in my eyes,” Bjorklund said, explaining that she couldn’t “think of anything more meaningful to me to receive.”
The insignia of the French Legion of Honor features a five-armed Maltese Asterisk with enameled white arms. The award typically is presented in France and must be done on French soil. In the United States, it can only be presented at the embassy, in Washington, D.C. or at a consulate.
Her award was presided over by Cédrik Fouriscot, Consul General of France in New York, and introduced by speeches by Axelle Davezac, President of the Board of Friends of Fondation de France, and Dr. Francis Charhon, a board member of the Friends of Fondation de France.
“To be recognized as a knight,” she explained, “when my whole passion, from a 12-year-old on forward, was knights. It’s just amazing.” Bjorklund received her insignia at Villa Albertine, the French Institute for Culture and Education before a crowd of 160 attendees on Sept. 10. Of those in attendance, half
were guests of the French Embassy, and the other half were family, friends and coworkers of Bjorklund. The institute is a division of the French Embassy based in New York City.
“It was amazing,” Bjorklund said of the evening, adding that she considered it “one of the most important evenings of my life.” Hank Bjorklund, former player for the New York Jets and Victoria’s husband, said the ceremony was “beautiful, and it was such a joy to hear such nice things being said about my wife.”
Hank and Victoria married each other in February 1972. The 75-year-old said he was “not surprised,” when he found out his wife was a recipient but added that it was unexpected. “It takes a lot to surprise my wife,” he said, explaining that she was “genuinely surprised.”
“It really came out of nowhere,” he said, “I’ve spent virtually my entire life with her, I know how brilliant she is, I know her passion for helping others.”
Sea Cliff residents Ann and Dan DiPietro were among those in attendance at the French Consulate. The couple has known Victoria for over a decade and found out that she had received the award at the Sea Cliff Civic Association’s celebration of the 100th anniversary of “The Great Gatsby’s” publication.
The couple were unfamiliar with the award at first but after a quick google search they explained that it was clear how significant it was and how rare it is for an American to get such an award. “I have this belief that Sea Cliff is the vortex of the world,” Ann said, “This just was a validation of that feeling that I have.”
Carol Vogt, Victoria’s neighbor, said she was “delighted,” when she found out Victoria would be recognized “but I was not surprised,” she added, pointing to “all the work that Victoria does to make this world a better place, it was a very deserved tribute.”
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Bjorklund received her insignia that comes with the knighthood at Villa Albertine, the French Institute for Culture and Education at a ceremony attended by 160 people.
Courtesy Motionette L.L.C.
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News brief
Ryder Cup Youth Day is Sept. 25
The PGA of America will host Youth Day at the 2025 Ryder Cup on Sept. 25, at Bethpage Black, furthering its commitment to helping the game grow through PGA Jr. League and local youth initiatives.
PGA Jr. League players from the Metropolitan PGA Section and local high school students are invited to attend free of charge with a ticketed adult. Youth Day provides access to Ryder Cup practice rounds and the decisive Junior Ryder Cup singles matches, featuring the top 24 junior golfers from the U.S. and Europe.
Jeffrey Bessen/Herald Youth Day at the 2025 Ryder Cup is on Sept. 25. Above, volunteers Sara Blau and Andres Diez picked up their uniforms last month.
The Junior Ryder Cup, established in 1997, has launched the careers of some of golf’s biggest stars, including Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, Scottie Scheffler, Lexi Thompson, Rose Zhang and Rory McIlroy.
A select group of participants will also take part in Beyond the Green, a career exploration program led by the PGA of America REACH Foundation. The event will feature New York-based sports organizations and brands, with youth representatives from groups such as First Tee of Metropolitan New York, The Bridge Golf Foundation and 100 Black Men of New York. Youth Day attendees will also be invited to the Ryder Cup opening ceremony that evening.
As part of the PGA’s mission to
increase inclusion and participation, juniors ages 15 and under receive free admission on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of Ryder Cup week with a ticketed adult (limit two juniors per adult). Tickets for juniors are available only at the Main Spectator Entrance on the day of play.
Additionally, PGA Jr. League Day at Ryder Cup Live will take place on Sept. 27, at Rockefeller Center. Players wearing their PGA Jr. League jerseys will enjoy a watch party, simulator competition, activities, prizes and raffles. For more, go to Bit.ly/3VaI8EN.
For more information, visit RyderCup.com.
–Jeffrey Bessen
STEPPING OUT
‘Love’ is all around us
Photos from the streets on view at Hofstra Museum
By Abbey Salvemini
Hofstra University Museum of Art opens its gallery to “Love Is The Message: Photography by Jamel Shabazz,” an inspiring exhibition honoring the decades-long creative output of the renowned street photographer. With his keen eye, Shabazz’s powerful images reflect pop culture, fashion and especially hip-hop, spanning the 1980s through today. The exhibit is on view in the Emily Lowe Gallery though Dec. 16.
Shabazzz’s striking black-and-white and color photography radiates joy and human connection, offering a deep sense of empathy and cultural pride. Alongside his photographs, visitors can also explore his personal collection of cameras, artwork and memorabilia.
“Jamel Shabazz is history, and it is a real gift that we are able to share this with our community,” Museum Director Sasha Giordano says.
As Giordano puts it, so thoroughly articulated in her forward in the exhibition catalogue: “Community is the heart of a museum.”
The exhibit was conceived with this spirit and curated by “Team Love,” a collective partnership composed of Shabazz; Robert Dupreme Eatman; Dr. Bilal Polson, principal of Northern Parkway School in Uniondale, Erik Sumner, art educator at Northern Parkway School; and the Hofstra University Museum of Art. Over two years, slowly and carefully, through meeting after meeting, the exhibition took shape from concept to fruition.
With Team Love’s valuable insights, “Love Is The Message”honors 50 years of Jamel Shabazz’s artistic achievement and is his first solo exhibition on Long Island — a fitting location as he is a longtime resident of Hempstead.
“Love Is the Message” explores how Shabazz’s work occupies a vital space at the intersection of art, activism and cultural storytelling. Deeply influenced by trailblazers like Gordon Parks, Shabazz embraces the camera not just as a creative tool, but as a means of witnessing everyday life within Black and Brown communities. Shabazz centers dignity, resilience, and beauty in his portraits by capturing not only how his subjects look, but how they live and love. His lens is one of empathy, inviting viewers not simply to observe but to feel and to witness the quiet strength of a
father holding his child, the joy in a group of friends dressed for a block party, or the pride in a young person striking a confident pose. In this way, Shabazz’s work does more than document; it cultivates understanding, mends division and illuminates the shared humanity that connects us all.
“Jamel wanted the team to put fourth an exhibition that showed love of community, friends, family and music,” Giordano explains.
As for Shabazz, he considers this retrospective a significant honor.
“When I look at the current situation of the country and the world, this exhibition is one of the most important shows of my life because we need love in the world right now,” he says. “I’m sharing my work to help inspire the next generation by using this universal global language of photography to create conversation.”
• Now through Dec. 16
• Programs require advance registration; call (516) 463-5672 to register
Shabazz commutes to his day job daily but returns to his Hempstead studio, where he immerses himself in reflection and creativity.
“The Town of Hempstead offers me a space where I can get into deep thought and develop my ideas,” he says.
Among the many photographs and artifacts on view, Shabazz shares that a photograph of his mother holds especially deep meaning for him. Entitled “‘The Giver of Life,’ it’s the work of which he is most proud.
“I went out to Jones Beach with my mother and I caught an incredible photograph of her with bread in her hand as the seagull approaches her. She’s never experienced anything like that before.”
Beyond that moment, his eye offers his special perspective on the world around us.
“My objective was to contribute to the preservation of culture for this generation. It is my hope that the younger generations can look at my work and get a glimpse of the style and culture of back in the day. I want young people to understand the importance of love and see the power of photography,” he adds.
As always, related programming enhances the viewing experience. Upcoming on Oct. 1, 6-7:30 p.m., join Giordano for an exhibition tour. She’ll discuss the community collaboration that shaped the exhibit, offering insight into the artist’s creative process and the legacy of love reflected in the work.
Meet the man behind the camera at “Love Is the Message: A Conversation with Jamel Shabazz,” on Oct. 23, 10 a.m.-noon. He’ll talk about his creative process, personal influence and the impact of his work documenting everyday life in Black and urban communities. It’s followed by an audience Q&A session.
The events schedule also includes “Feel the Love – Experience the Photography of Jamel Shabazz with a Heart Meditation,” on Nov. 6. Denise Peterson, of Denise Peterson Yoga, brings mindfulness and meditation techniques to the art experience.
NYC Ska Orchestra
The NYC Ska Orchestra blends the exuberant musical layers of the jazz era with Jamaican roots music. The top-notch musicians, led by arranger-trumpeter-vocalist Kevin Batchelor, deliver a lively concert that surely will lead you to want to get up out of your seat and dance. This 20-piece big band features star turns from celebrated octogenarian percussionist/vocalist Larry McDonald and master drummer Carl Wright. Alongside a powerhouse collective of instrumental artists from the reggae recording scene, band members have performed with Peter Tosh, Bob Marley, Lee “Scratch” Perry, Toots & the Maytals. Together they play a non-stop selection of lush original compositions and arrangements of songs from the richly historic and culturally iconic Jamaican musical styles of 1950s and ’60s ska, mento, rocksteady and jazz.
Friday, Sept 26. 8 p.m. $42, $37 members. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.
Soulful notes with Vincent Ingala
Contemporary jazz saxophonist/ multi-instrumentalist Vincent Ingala and his electrifying band bring their funky grooves to the Madison Theatre. Declared by Jazziz Magazine as “one of the most exciting artists to emerge this past decade,” Ingala remains an unstoppable, creative force in urban contemporary jazz. His career includes10 #1 Billboard hits, 23 Top 10 singles, with more to come from his latest release and eighth album, “Escape With Me.” Ingala’s unique dual ability to electrify fans while connecting emotionally with them has made him one of the genre’s most popular talents on the scene today. He draws the audience in; becoming part of an exciting musical experience that bridges the gap between the music of his father’s R&B, funk and soul collection ( which he was heavily immersed in) and Ingala’s well executed horn lines.
Saturday, Sept. 20, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $45. Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. Tickets available at madisontheatreny. org or (516) 323-4444.
Photos courtesy Jamal Shabazz and Hofstra University Musem of Art
A Time of Innocence Series, Flatbush, Brooklyn, 1981
The Giver of Life, Jones Beach, 2005
Youth and Age, Hempstead, Undated
Church Ladies, Harlem, 1997
YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CALENDAR
SEPT 18
On Exhibit
Nassau County
Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “At Play,” surveys artists’ perennial fascination with entertainment in all forms. Framing this topic between the nineteenth century Belle Époque and today, the exhibit includes works by Pablo Picasso, Reginald Marsh, Everett Shinn, and Max Beckmann among many others. The works are gathered to represent a wide range of expressions, from entertainment-related activities to the fascinating personalities involved. It encompasses dance, music, theater, movies, circus, boating, and beach scenes, along with horseracing and various sports, both active and passive Also featured are archival items from The Metropolitan Opera and the New York Philharmonic, including costumes by Marc Chagall for Die Zauberflöte, vintage fashion items by such designers as Alfred Shaheen, and iconic costumes from the Folies-Bergère in Paris. On view until Nov. 9.
• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor
• Time: Ongoing
• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337
Board of Education meeting
The North Shore Board of Education meets. Keep up with important issues pertaining to the school district.
• Where: 505 Glen Cove Ave., Glen Head
• Time: 7:45 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 277-7801
Paint Sea Cliff
SEPT
The Sea Cliff Arts Council, in partnership with Sherman Art Conservation, hosts
Paint Sea Cliff: a plein air event. $50 fee. Registration required.
• Where: 86 Roslyn Ave., Sea Cliff
• Time: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Contact: seacliffartscouncil.org
Costal cleanup
The Coalition to Save Hempstead Harbor participates in the international coastal cleanup at four sites throughout the North Shore. Prior registration is required. Bring rakes, gloves, and pails to help clean the Town of North Hempstead Beach Park, Tappen Beach, Sea Cliff Beach and Morgan Park Beach.
• Where: Multiple locations
• Time: 9-11 a.m.
• Contact: cshh.org or (516) 801-6792
‘…We will rock you’
Get ready to sing along — Queen-mania is back on Long Island. Almost Queen, the acclaimed tribute band, is set to return to the Paramount stage, bringing with them the soaring vocals, electrifying guitar riffs, and theatrical flair that defined one of rock’s most legendary groups. Almost Queen isn’t just another cover band. Their performances are carefully crafted to honor the spirit of Freddie Mercury, Brian May, John Deacon, and Roger Taylor while delivering a concert experience that feels fresh and alive. The lineup features Joseph Russo as the dynamic and charismatic Mercury, Steve Leonard as guitar virtuoso May, Randy Gregg as bassist Deacon, and John Cappadona as drummer Taylor. Together, they recreate Queen’s iconic sound with impeccable four-part harmonies, precise musical interludes, and the kind of stage energy that pulls audiences to their feet. Attention to detail sets the band apart. From authentic costumes to faithful renditions of classic hits like “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We Will Rock You,” and “Somebody to Love,” the band captures both the power and the playfulness of Queen’s original shows. Their devotion to accuracy — paired with undeniable chemistry on stage — has earned them a loyal following that grows with every tour. $108.75, $98.25, $76.25, $64.75, $54.25, $48.75.
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
Explore Sea Cliff Avenue
Check out local restaurants and shopping when Sea Cliff Avenue is transformed into a hub of outdoor activity for a final time for the season.
• Where: Sea Cliff Avenue
• Time: 5-10 p.m.
• Contact: info@seacliff-ny.gov
Annual golf outing
Sea Cliff Lions Club hosts its annual fall classic golf outing to rais funds for the Guide Dog Foundation and local charities. Registration required.
Sea Cliff Arts Council hosts a screening of “Stranger/ Sister,” a 41-minute documentary exploring the powerful alliance between Muslim and Jewish women fighting hate together. The film
follows the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom and their grassroots efforts to build unity. $20.
• Where: 86 Roslyn Ave., Sea Cliff
• Time: 4-5:30 p.m.
• Contact: seacliffartscouncil.org
Fall Fun Fest
Celebrate autumn at Sands Point Preserve. Families can participate in activities for all ages including pumpkin painting at the Upadhyay Family Pumpkin Patch, face painting, puppet shows, animal presentations, games, bird watching with North Shore Audubon Society, meet Oriana, the Harvest Bubble Fairy, and more. With food trucks and an autumn market. $45 per car.
• Where: 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point
• Time: Noon-4 p.m.
• Contact: sandspointpreserveconservancy. org or call (516) 571-7901
Board of
meet The Sea Cliff Board of Trustees meets to update residents on the ongoing work on
Vincent in Arles
OCT
Former Sea Cliff Mayor Edward Lieberman examines the history of Vincent Van Gogh’s time in Arles at Sea Cliff Library.
• Where: 300 Sea Cliff Ave., Sea Cliff
• Time: 4-5:30 p.m.
• Contact: seaclifflibrary.org or (516)-671-4290
Monthly meditation
Sands Point Preserve’s reserve’s historic mansions and waterfront grounds are the backdrop for an evening of nature-based mindfulness and meditation with Hildur Palsdottir, first Thursday monthly. Classes are held in the beautiful rooms of the Preserve’s mansions, or in the Hempstead House Garden when weather permits. Explore techniques specifically aimed at stress reduction. Hildur adapts ancient Buddhist teachings to modern applications for calming the mind. With transformative practices you will access wisdom and clarity to live a more compassionate life. In addition to facilitating these monthly groups, Hildur offers support with establishing a home meditation practice. No feeling is final. $17 per class.
• Where: 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point
• Time: 6-8 p.m., also Nov. 6
revamping the villages zoning code.
• Where: 253 Glen Ave., Sea Cliff
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 671-0080
SEPT
30
Senior safety
Members of the Northwell Health Glen Cove emergency team and the Sea Cliff Fire Department discuss the hospital’s age-friendly process for seniors.
• Where: 253 Glen Ave., Sea Cliff
• Time: 12:30 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 671-0080
Emergency workshop
State Citizen Preparedness Corps members instruct residents how to prepare for any kind of disaster, natural or manmade at American Legion Post 336. Registration required.
• Where: 190 Glen Head Road, Glen Head
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 571-6211
• Contact: sandspointpreserveconservancy. org or call (516) 571-7901
Mini Mart
OCT
6
The Village of Sea Cliff hosts its 52nd annual mini mart. Stroll throughout downtown and enjoy one of the largest artisan craft fairs on the North Shore.
• Where: 253 Glen Ave., Sea Cliff
• Time: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 671-0080
Having an event?
Items on the Calendar page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to kbloom@ liherald.com.
Long Island Railroad strike on hold... for now
By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com
A potential Long Island Rail Road strike that was looming on Sept. 18 has been paused for now after the five unions threatening to halt service announced they are requesting intervention from the Presidential Emergency Board.
The move means negotiations will continue under federal mediation, postponing any immediate threat of a strike. The development comes amid mounting tension between the Metropolitan Transportation Authority and the five remaining unions that have yet to reach a contract agreement with the railroad. These unions represent more than half of the LIRR’s workforce, and their decision earlier this month to pursue a strike authorization alarmed the MTA and the commuters who depend on the system every day.
More than 270,000 daily riders would be affected by a walkout. While the latest action delays that possibility, the disputes over wages and work rules remain unresolved, leaving the longterm outlook uncertain.
Aabove $300,000,” Free said. “That’s largely the result of antiquated work rules that allow multiple days’ pay for one day of work. And now they want a bigger raise while keeping those rules in place.”
The BRS’s 809 members voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike as talks stalled. About 600 BLET workers also approved a work stoppage.
“[The] Long Island Rail Road has not negotiated in good faith and has not been serious from the onset of bargaining,” said BRS Vice President of Commuters and Passengers Tim Tarrant in a Sept. 11 statement. “[The] LIRR’s ontime performance has never been better and it’s time for them to recognize their hard-working men and women by offering a fair contract that keeps up with the cost of living in New York.”
fter months of radio silence, these outlier unions have finally admitted that they weren’t serious about negotiating.
JOHN J.
MTA
During a Sept. 11 news conference at Penn Station, MTA President Rob Free said negotiations had broken down after the National Mediation Board expedited the release of the unions. That opened the door to a strike that could have begun at 12:01 a.m. on Sept. 18.
MCCARTHY
chief of policy and external relations
The last LIRR strike occurred in 1994.
“We have attempted to negotiate in good faith with these five remaining labor organizations,” Free said. “A fair offer has been made and accepted by the majority of all the other represented employees at the Long Island Rail Road, including the largest union, SMART, and four others.”
The five unions still holding out include the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen, the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, and the Transportation Communications Union. Collectively, they form the Long Island Rail Road Bargaining Coalition, representing 55 percent of the unionized workforce at the LIRR.
According to the MTA, its current proposal calls for a 9.5 percent wage increase over three years. But the unions are pushing for an additional 6.5 percent raise on top of the existing deal, without giving ground on work rules that management says are ‘outdated.’
“Locomotive engineers make over $49 an hour currently. The average salary is over $160,000 a year, with top earners
BRS General Chairman Mike Sullivan echoed the frustration.
“Our members will not stand for a contract that results in a loss of real wages, and we are prepared to use all means available to achieve a fair contract,” he said in the same statement.
While the Taylor Law prohibits public employees in New York from striking, LIRR workers are covered under the federal Railway Labor Act. That law allows for strikes under certain conditions, though it also provides a process for federal mediation—such as the Presidential Emergency Board request now underway.
The MTA has repeatedly stressed its desire to resolve the dispute without disruption and was preparing contingency plans in case of a walkout. The plan would have included limited shuttle bus service from three LIRR stations—Bellmore, Hicksville, and Ronkonkoma— running every 10 minutes during peak hours to subway connections in Queens.
Riders were also encouraged to use Nassau Inter-County Express buses for connections to Jamaica and Flushing.
“We couldn’t possibly replace the full service that LIRR runs every day, but we are trying our best to accommodate those essential workers in an effort to not leave anyone stranded,” said Shanifah Rieara, MTA senior adviser for communications and policy.
The MTA also announced that monthly ticket holders would be eligible for prorated refunds on strike days, subject to board approval.
The strike would have also affected the upcoming Ryder Cup, scheduled for Sept. 23–28 at Bethpage Black.
“Does the union really want to disrupt that and have that on their heads— that they caused Long Island to miss out on this huge economic boom?” Free asked.
The Long Island Rail Road strike set for Sept. 18 has been put on hold for now after the five unions announced on Sept. 15 that they are requesting federal mediation from the Presidential Emergency Board.
Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF NASSAU
The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, NA, successor to The Bank of New York Trust Company, NA, as trustee, for the Chase Mortgage Finance Trust Multi-Class Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2006-S3, Plaintiff AGAINST Horace Patrick; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered May 10, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 25, 2025, at 2:30PM, premises known as 2502 Cedar Swamp Road, Glen Head, NY 11545. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section: 17. Block: 14 Lot: 1. Approximate amount of judgment $1,785,886.15 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 601382/2018. Willis Carman, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792 Dated: July 29, 2025 For sale information, please visit Servicelinkauction.com or call (866) 539-4173 86671 155339
LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will be held as to the following matter: Agency: Zoning Board of Appeals, Village of Sea Cliff Date: September 30, 2025
Time:7:00 pm
Place:Village Hall, 300 Sea Cliff Avenue, Sea Cliff, New York
Subject:Application of Michael and Brittany Dutt, 85 Lafayette Avenue, Sea Cliff, New York, to construct a carport and reconfigure a driveway, which construction requires variances of the following Village Code sections: (a) 138-511, in that the side yard setback on the eastern side will be 3 feet, where a minimum of 15 feet is required, and (b) 138-514.1, in that the floor area will be 4,041 square feet, where a maximum of 3,750 square feet is permitted. Premises are designated as Section 21, Block 61, Lot 137 on the Nassau County Land and Tax Map.
Application of Kyle and Linsay Novellano, 55 Summit Avenue, Sea Cliff, New York, to construct a one story addition, which construction requires a variance of Village Code §138-414.1, to permit a floor area of 3,071 square feet, where a maximum of 2,852 square feet is permitted. Premises are designated as Section 21, Block 128, Lot 2 on the Nassau County Land and Tax Map.
Application of Daniel and Katherine Gold, 332 Carpenter Avenue, Sea Cliff, New York, to construct a rear deck, dormer and stone patio, enclose an open
porch and modify a driveway, which construction requires variances of the following Village Code sections: (a) 138-513, in that the dormer will be at a height of 33.83 feet, where a maximum of 30 feet is permitted, (b) 138-514.1, in that the floor area will be 5,161.96 square feet, where a maximum of 4,200 square feet is permitted (c) 138-519, in that the impervious coverage will be 10,547 square feet where a maximum of 6,559.75 square feet is permitted. Premises are designated as Section 21, Block 60, Lot 57 on the Nassau County Land and Tax Map.
Application of Mittersill Realty, LLC, as owner and Campground Beer Market, Inc. as tenant, to convert premises located at 208 Sea Cliff Avenue, Sea Cliff, New York to a restaurant use with additional proposed uses of the premises, including a 3,758 square foot outdoor area of the property to serve food and drinks, hosting of food trucks and maintaining a shed in a front yard, which proposed uses would require the following approvals from the Zoning Board: (a) a special use permit pursuant to Village Code §138-802 to operate a restaurant with an outdoor area for food and drink service, and (b) variances (i) to permit the hosting of food trucks, where such use is not permitted as a permitted, special use or accessory use under Village Code §§138-801 or 802, (ii) to permit the maintenance of a shed in a front yard, where Village Code §138-815 prohibits an accessory
structure in a front yard, and (iii) to permit 8 on-site parking spaces, where Village Code §138-1102 requires 40 parking spaces for the proposed use. Premises are designated as Section 21, Block 134, Lot 2 on the Nassau County Land and Tax Map. Application of 209 Glen Cove Avenue LLC, 209 Glen Cove Avenue, Sea Cliff, New York, appealing the Building Inspector’s determination that the proposed use of the premises as a 3 story mixed use building containing retail uses and 10 apartment units is not a permitted use. Premises are designated as Section 21, Block 96, Lot 223 on the Nassau County Land and Tax Map. At the said time and place, all interested persons may be heard with respect to the foregoing matters. All relevant documents may be inspected at the office of the Village Clerk, Village Hall, 300 Sea Cliff Avenue, Sea Cliff, New York, during regular business hours. Any person having a disability which would inhibit attendance at, or participation in, the hearing should notify the Village Clerk at least three business days prior to the hearing, so that reasonable efforts may be made to facilitate such attendance and participation.
Dated: September 16, 2025 BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS 155849
OPINIONS
On the stump and on the field, the pressure builds
We’re just past the midway point of September, the month that traditionally signifies key flashpoints in two very competitive American pastimes: Major League Baseball and American politics.
Before MLB initiated division play and wild cards, there were just two leagues, the National and American, and the team with the best record in each league at the close of the regular season, at the end of September, made it to the World Series. That made the league pennant races do-or-die. Sudden death. No “postseason” or second chances.
There were years in which the pennant race had as much drama and tension as the World Series. In 1951, for instance, the Brooklyn Dodgers and the New York Giants finished the regular season in a dead heat, necessitating a three-game playoff, which the Giants won on Bobby Thompson’s three-run homer in the bottom of the ninth inning of Game 3 — the fabled “shot heard
Baround the world.” That was one of the most famous moments in baseball history, and the fact that the Giants went on to lose the World Series to the Yankees is barely a footnote.
Now there six divisions, and 12 teams qualify for the postseason, taking away the suddendeath aspect. The flip side of the coin is that with more teams in the hunt and more games to be played, there’s sustained fan interest almost to November. That’s especially welcome news for New York fans this year, since neither the Yankees nor the Mets will win their division, but both are good position to be wild card teams.
TLabor Day. Voters are back from vacation or home from the beach. All that went before was but a prelude to the nine-week race that won’t end until late on election night, Nov. 4.
This campaign run to the finish is both a sprint and a marathon. Having run for elective office 19 times, I can tell you that a campaign is both exhilarating and exhausting. A candidate who has run a serious race should have nothing left at the end.
he candidates and the playoff contenders head down the stretch.
And the postseason is a brand new ball game. Last season, the Mets won postseason series over the Brewers and the Phillies, both of which had finished ahead of the Mets in the regular season. The Mets then pushed the Dodgers to six games before finally succumbing, falling short of the World Series by just two games. This year’s September challenge for the Mets is to make sure they nab a wild card slot so they can go on to October, where anything can happen.
Much like baseball, the American political season begins in earnest after
This is especially true in Nassau County, where there are few easy races. I assure you that despite Bruce Blakeman’s excellent record as county executive, with Nassau being rated the safest county in the United States and no tax increases, he is not taking his re-election for granted. Yes, polls show that Blakeman has a solid lead over his challenger, Democratic County Legislator Seth Koslow, but he also knows there are 100,000 more registered Democrats than Republicans in Nassau County.
Blakeman remembers just four years ago, when he was the challenger and incumbent County Executive Laura Curran was the frontrunner, clearly leading in the polls. But Blakeman waged a strong, hard-fought campaign,
and on election night in November 2021, he was victorious.
Similarly, in the race for county district attorney that same year, Democratic State Sen. Todd Kaminsky was the clear favorite over career prosecutor Anne Donnelly, a Republican. The consensus among political insiders was that Kaminsky would use the D.A.’s office as a steppingstone to state attorney general, and then governor. But Donnelly ran as a strict law-and-order candidate, opposed to the so-called “bail reform” legislation supported by Kaminsky. Election night saw a landslide win for Donnelly.
While national and statewide races get the most media attention, it’s county and town races that are closest to, and most intense for, voters. There are no flyover candidates or Rose Garden campaigns. The candidates are right there in our communities, at local events. We see them up close, and get to know who they are and what they stand for. And the issues are ones that affect us directly: safe streets and neighborhoods, support for our police, preventing tax increases and creating jobs. All of it leading to Nov 4, Election Day, the World Series of politics.
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
The battle of egos in the Big Apple
eing a former elected official, I am asked frequent questions about political matters. Some are about national developments or personalities, but lately, almost all are about New York City’s mayoral contest. For most of this year, many people, city and suburban voters, have been transfixed by fear about the possibility that a total unknown, Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, could become the city’s first socialist mayor.
My initial comments have been intended for city dwellers who failed to show up at the June Democratic primary and are now brooding about the potential of having someone so controversial and unqualified running a city of more than 8 million people. I remind them that the city primary elections now use a ranked-choice voting system, which favors unknown candidates, who may have little funding but know how to run a campaign. Mamdani was able to raise a substantial amount of money through
small donations, and ran a professional campaign that is now the envy of the political establishment. The first political shockwave was on primary night, when, early in the evening, it became evident that he would be the clear winner. He won so handily that his opponent, former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, made an early concession speech.
UBy the time the sun was up the following day, my telephone was ringing off the hook. While the summer months are usually la-la time, the inquiries continued on a daily basis. In August I switched my responses from “I don’t know” to “Let’s see who will run against Mamdani,” hoping that Mayor Eric Adams, Cuomo and the Republican candidate, Curtis Sliwa, would agree on one independent challenger who could give Mamdani a real contest.
have massive egos, there has been a lot of pushback, though Adams has appeared to leave the door open to “a challenge where my country calls me.”
nless there’s a show of humility, New York City will be led by a political novice.
The “country” Adams is referring to is President Trump, who has made it clear that he doesn’t want Mamdani to win. Even though having a socialist mayor would give Republicans a great issue against traditional Democrats, the president is a New Yorker at heart and has many interests to protect if the city were to take a downturn. It’s possible that Adams will be enticed to drop out, and that may have happened by the time this appears, but even then the picture would still be cloudy if Curtis Sliwa stays in the race.
is hard-nosed, and the winner will be Mamdani.
There is another facet to this New York City battle. Few city elections have ever attracted national attention, but this one is attracting national and even international poll watchers. The Republican Party would love for Mamdani to win, so they could label all Democrats socialist sympathizers. Gov. Kathy Hochul endorsed Mamdani over the weekend, but many other major Democratic officeholders have yet to take a position on the race. The few who have were almost forced to act, because their party base is made up of all factions, which include socialist backers.
But now the September clock is ticking, and there is daily buzz about who will stay in the race and who will drop out. Behind the scenes, prominent conservatives, such as the philanthropist Ronald Lauder and the supermarket mogul John Catsimatidis, have been trying to get either Adams or Sliwa, or both, to drop out. But because both men
A recent Siena Research/NY Times poll concluded that if the only candidates in the race were Cuomo and Mamdani, Mamdani would win 48 percent of the vote, and Cuomo 44 percent. But those figures may not take into account how, in a race that tight, voters in all political parties might coalesce around Cuomo because of their fear of the Democratic designee. I expect that on Election Day it will be a three-person contest, because Sliwa
The November date of destiny is coming at us quickly. There are an impressive number of young voters in the city who have been smitten by Mamdani’s pledge of free buses, rent freezes and public grocery stores. But they don’t pay the real estate taxes and support the infrastructure that make New York the most important city in the world. And if the political novice gets elected, all of New York City and state will suffer.
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.
PETER KING
JERRY KREMER
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HERALD
TOur disagreements must stop at debate
he United States has long prided itself on being a nation in which political differences are aired by way of ballots, not bullets. In recent years, however, violence has too often invaded our public square, shattering lives, feeding a general atmosphere of fear and distrust, and undermining the democratic ideals we claim to cherish.
As we count down to Election Day on Nov. 4, we must recommit to the principle that civil political discourse — not intimidation, assault or bloodshed — is the only legitimate path forward.
Consider the troubling list of recent events. On Jan. 6, 2021, rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol, brutally attacking police officers in an effort to halt the peaceful transfer of power to then President-elect Joseph Biden, a Democrat. Five people died in the rioting. Since then, President Trump, a Republican, has survived two assassination attempts.
In 2022, Paul Pelosi, the husband of former Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, was bludgeoned with a hammer in the Pelosis’ home in San Francisco. In April of this year, a man attempted to burn down the residence of Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, a fellow Democrat.
In June, Minnesota State Rep. Melissa Hortman, a Democrat, was killed in a targeted attack at her home, along with
LETTERS
Blakeman has a narrow definition of ‘safe’
To the Editor:
Re County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s op-ed last week, “Protecting our kids and keeping Nassau County safe”: Blakeman’s myopia ought not be ours. Though the Nassau County Police Department is top-notch in both competence and compensation, “safety” is a far broader sentiment than armed personnel.
With the most foreclosures in the metropolitan region, Nassau is not a safe place for those who can’t keep up with the Joneses. Our growing population of residents dependent on food bank services, absentee landlords and gig work surely appreciate our police, but don’t feel safe from economic predation. And neither drivers nor pedestrians are especially safe in Nassau, and the roadways themselves would win no awards.
Our famed police are no comfort to anyone viewed through ICE-eyes as dusky, dusty or dawdling. We are not yet saved from Nassau’s dual-action dysfunctional
her husband, Mark Hortman. In a separate incident, Minnesota State Sen. John Hoffman, also a Democrat, and his wife were wounded, allegedly by the same gunman.
On Sept. 10, one day before our national commemoration of the worst terrorist attack on U.S. soil, the assassination of conservative political activist Charlie Kirk shook the nation.
All of these acts, though politically motivated in different ways, shared a tragic theme: a rejection of reasoned debate in favor of violence. The perpetrators’ actions defied both justice and ethics. Political leaders, regardless of party, must unequivocally denounce violence not only when it is directed at their allies, but also when it strikes their adversaries.
The answers to bitter disagreements can be found instead in the very foundation of American law: our Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech, association and petition. These rights were spelled out so that individuals and groups could argue, persuade and organize without fear of reprisal.
Violence, by contrast, seeks to silence opponents permanently. It is not an expression of political conviction but rather a repudiation of it — an attempt to destroy debate rather than contribute to it. That is why every civilized society criminalizes assault, murder and terrorism. To resort to such methods is not
only to break the law but also to tear at the moral fabric that holds communities together.
Violence corrodes democracy itself. When citizens and leaders live under constant threat, they retreat from public engagement. Ordinary people withdraw from activism. Elected officials alter decisions out of fear for their families’ safety. Journalists censor themselves to avoid becoming targets. These chilling effects shrink the civic space, and create an atmosphere of suspicion and anger.
The way forward requires a cultural shift that emphasizes respect, empathy and resilience even in the face of profound disagreements. Everyone from students to business executives to politicians to the media should refuse to share disinformation, avoid demonizing those with whom we have differing opinions and welcome calm, reasoned argument that can change minds more effectively than threats ever could.
Passionate debate is fine. Disagreement is natural in a diverse society, and progress often emerges from that vigorous discussion. In stark contrast, every time a political leader is targeted, every time a citizen is attacked for his or her beliefs, the American experiment itself is weakened.
At this point in our country’s history, the stakes could not be higher. We must choose civility over cruelty, and persuasion over violence.
OPINIONS
Legislation that’s critical to L.I. firefighters’ safety
Firefighters across Long Island, especially volunteers, face growing risks not just in the line of duty, but also from the very gear meant to protect them. That’s because many of the region’s fire departments — including those in Nassau and Suffolk counties as well as Brooklyn and Queens — have relied on turnout gear and firefighting foam that contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, a class of synthetic chemicals now strongly linked to a variety of serious health problems. As a result, many fire service personnel around the region deal with repeated and prolonged exposure to toxic compounds, often without access to safer alternatives.
The issue has become even more concerning as PFAS have leached into the water and soil, which ultimately caused widespread contamination. While federal and state agencies have begun to address this ongoing issue, the occupational health risks tied specifically to firefighters remain insufficiently prioritized.
The PFAS Alternatives Act — first introduced in Congress in July 2023 — presents a targeted and science-driven response. By investing in the development of PFAS-free turnout gear and training programs focused on reducing exposure, the legislation advances measures that protect not only full-time firefighters, but also volunteers.
ESince the 1950s, PFAS have become a staple in various commercial goods because of their remarkable resistance to extreme temperatures and moisture. The problem is that, because of their strong carbon-fluorine bond, these so-called “forever chemicals” don’t break down easily. Instead, they accumulate in the environment and even the human body, triggering many catastrophic illnesses, including cancer, immunosuppression, liver damage, Type 2 diabetes in women, and developmental delays in children. These medical facts prompted the Environmental Protection Agency to issue an advisory stating that no level of PFAS is considered safe, and even the slightest exposure can have serious repercussions. Unfortunately, this danger is almost unavoidable for hundreds of firefighters on Long Island, in nearly 70 fire depart-
LETTERS
property-tax regime, its failed bus patrol tax, its Nassau University Medical Center mess nor wasteful BLAKEMAN signage. Nassau’s water safety is in question. Discoveries of buried chemical toxins and depleted shorelines threaten real estate, and the police cannot arrest viruses. Nassau has enough police, but not enough security.
BRIAN KELLY
Rockville Centre
Honoring veterans through service and support
To the Editor:
On Sept. 12, the day after 9/11, the National Day of Service and Remembrance, PSEG Long Island, National Grid and the nonprofit General Needs came together to host the first-ever Veteran Warm Up event, serving more than 100 local veterans. At this drivethrough event, veterans received bedding, pillows, heaters, LED light bulbs and information about financial and energy-efficiency
programs designed to help them keep warm when the weather gets colder.
Why would PSEG Long Island step into this role? The answer is simple: because veterans are our neighbors, and many are among the most vulnerable members of our communities. Long Island is home to one of the largest populations of veterans in the country, and too many of them face challenges related to housing, health and employment. At PSEG Long Island, we believe our responsibility goes beyond keeping the lights on — we have a duty to support the well-being of the communities we serve.
That’s why, year after year, our employee-volunteers give their time, energy and compassion at events that provide direct aid to veterans and other neighbors in need. Collaborating with organizations like General Needs amplifies that impact, ensuring that resources reach those who need them most.
This commitment to community is an extension of our mission: to provide safe, reliable energy while also strengthening the fabric of the neighborhoods we call home. By supporting veterans, we
ments in Nassau County and over 100 in Suffolk County. Despite their critical roles in safeguarding their communities, these brave firefighters are often forced to respond to emergencies using contaminated equipment.
quipment meant to protect them contains harmful ‘forever chemicals.’
This public health issue has also led to a big wave of legal battles involving the firefighting community. Thousands of firefighters nationwide have filed lawsuits in multidistrict litigation to hold chemical manufacturers, such as 3M and DuPont, accountable for distributing hazardous products without providing proper warnings about the dangers. As of early last month, there were more than 12,000 active cases. Although this mounting legal pressure indicates a growing awareness among victims of their right to hold chemical manufacturers liable, it also underscores the urgent need for legislative solutions.
The PFAS Alternatives Act is a crucial federal initiative aimed at tackling the severe health risks firefighters are compelled to confront because of their prolonged exposure to PFAS. First introduced by U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick in July 2023 and reintroduced by Rep. Debbie Dingell and other lawmakers this May, the bill reflects a longstanding and even growing concern over firefighter
safety. The bipartisan group that initiated it included Long Island Reps. Andrew Garbarino and Michael Lawler, as well as former Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, all of whom signed on as cosponsors, recognizing the urgent need for action in New York state.
The latest iteration of the legislation prioritizes a vital investment of $25 million annually, through fiscal year 2029, for the innovation and testing of PFASfree turnout gear. Besides this, a $2 million yearly budget is likewise set to be allocated during the same period to support training programs that will help first responders reduce PFAS exposure while safer gear is being developed. This funding is particularly critical on Long Island, where many volunteer fire departments continue using contaminated equipment simply because affordable alternatives are unavailable.
But for the region and the entire state to fully benefit from this legislation, local leaders must strongly support its immediate ratification and effective implementation. Until PFASfree equipment becomes standard statewide, firefighters will continue to confront serious risks from the very gear that’s supposed to safeguard them.
Jonathan Sharp is chief financial officer of the Environmental Litigation Group, a firm that helps fast-track compensation claims filed by victims of toxic exposure and their families.
the
of Hempstead sunrise Sept. 11 memorial service — Town Park Point Lookout
honor their service and sacrifices while building a culture of understanding and respect that benefits us all.
The Veteran Warm Up event is just one example of how PSEG Long Island strives to live out its values of safety, security and
service. We do this because it’s the right thing to do — for our veterans and for our communities.
Interim president and chief operating officer, PSEG Long Island
JONATHAN SHARP
FRAMEWORK by Tim Baker
At
Town
DAVID LYONS
Join Us in Fighting Hunger on Long Island!
Daniel Gale Foundation x Island Harvest Food Bank
September is Hunger Action Month
– Together, We Can Make a Difference
This September, help us support Island Harvest Food Bank, Long Island’s largest hunger relief organization. Every can, box, and dollar collected helps families right here in our community.
Ways You Can Give:
Drop off any non-perishable donations at any Daniel Gale office throughout the month of September. Items most needed include:
• Canned vegetables and soup
• Pasta, rice, or ramen
• Stuffing & instant potatoes
• Cereal, oatmeal, grits
• Toiletries & personal care items (soap, shampoo, toothpaste, feminine hygiene products, etc.)
Or you can donate online: $1 supports 2 meals
With your help, we aim to collect 10,000 lbs. of food for Island Harvest.
Your generosity will make a real impact. Together, we can feed our neighbors in need.
