Seaford Herald 09-04-2025

Courtesy Girl Scouts of Nassau County Runners and walkers will take in the scenic views of Jones Beach while participating in the Thin Mint Sprint 5K — part of Girl Scouts Love State Parks Weekend.

Thin Mint Sprint returns Sept. 14

Annual 5K supports Girl Scouts of Nassau County

by CHArles sHAW cshaw@liherald.com

The Girl Scouts of Nassau County will host its second annual Thin Mint Sprint 5K Race and Family Fun Walk at Jones Beach State Park on Sept. 14, raising funds for programs that support local Scouts.

The event coincides with Girl Scouts Love State Parks Weekend, a nationwide initiative that encourages people to explore state parks and promote environmental awareness. Open to the public, the Thin Mint Sprint offers a family-friendly way to celebrate community, fitness and fun while supporting the Girl Scouts of Nassau County’s mission to make the Girl Scout Leadership Experience accessible to all girls.

Rande Bynum, CEO of the Garden Citybased Girl Scouts of Nassau County, said the

event is more than just a run or walk — it’s a celebration of leadership, togetherness and generosity. She added that whether participants are Scouts or running enthusiasts, all are welcome to join in and support current and future Girl Scouts.

“This fundraiser will help us not only celebrate our national Girl Scouts Love State Park Weekend,” Bynum said, “but also help us raise money to make sure that all girls have access to all the great things (that) happen in Girl Scouts.”

Bynum said the brainchild for a 5K fundraiser came after recognizing that participants wanted an active event that also highlights state parks through wellness activities. She noted that Scouts are planning to partner with the state parks department to offer additional programming at the Jones Beach

A commitment to kindness in Seaford schools

by CHArles sHAW cshaw@liherald.com

The Seaford School District welcomed new and returning educators last week to ring in the new school year, with administrators focusing on a commitment to kindness to create a positive environment.

District faculty filled the auditorium at Seaford High School on Aug. 27 for Superintendent’s Conference Day, on which they focused on preparing for the year ahead. Superintendent Adele Pecora said the focus was on encouraging educators to be agents of positive change for what she described as a generation of anxious students.

We want

every employee to walk into the building happy, so that’s the focus of our work this year.

ate positive change, the district introduced its version of the butterfly effect, called the Viking Effect, named for the school mascot. The initiative asks teachers to perform small acts of kindness toward students — offering patient explanations or words of encouragement, or sparking curiosity in a topic — that can inspire a child’s growth and passions, which in turn may influence others along the way.

Adele peCorA Superintendent, Seaford School District

“One of the most underrated words is happy, and we want every child walking into our buildings happy,” Pecora said. “We want every employee to walk into the building happy, so that’s the focus of our work this year.”

Encouraging faculty to cre-

“The most important thing is to realize that, at any point in time, you have the ability to say something positive, inspire a child to be more curious and to change their trajectory,” Pecora said.

The district also welcomed 22 new teachers at the conference. The group had already gathered in the high school library on Aug. 20 for a two-day orientation program, in which they toured the four schools, visited community landmarks and attended an informational session on the

ConTinued on PaGe 7

things to know: wantagh’s new teacher orientation

Over 20 educators join the school district

More than 20 first-year educators took part in a two-day orientation on Aug. 25 to prepare for their new roles in the Wantagh School District.

Just before the start of the new school year, more than 20 educators joined the Wantagh School District as first-year faculty members. They gathered Aug. 25 in the middle school library for a two-day orientation that introduced them to the district’s curriculum, culture and community.

— Charles Shaw

n A strong welcome from leadership

Superintendent John McNamara opened the program by highlighting Wantagh’s supportive environment of students, parents and staff. He reminded the group that success in the district comes from the collective K-12 effort and assured them that “there are plenty of supports in place.”

n Mentorship and collaboration ahead

Each new teacher will be paired with an experienced colleague as a mentor. McNamara also encouraged them to seek guidance from their gradelevel and department teams, emphasizing the value of collaboration.

Mount Sinai expertise, South Shore convenience.

The Mount Sinai Health System is committed to providing Long Island with exceptional, patient-centered health care, and has invested in your community with our state-of-the-art multispecialty practice in Wantagh.

Mount Sinai-Wantagh offers:

• Mount Sinai Tisch Cancer Center

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You will also gain access to the full resources of the Mount Sinai Health System, including the latest treatments, clinical trials, and research. Mount Sinai-Wantagh is fully integrated with Mount Sinai South Nassau in Oceanside, for hospital-based procedures.

Our goal is to provide an optimal patient experience and keep the South Shore healthy.

n Orientation covered curriculum and community

Over the two days, the new hires attended sessions on curriculum, communication, lesson planning and instructional technology. They also toured the district by bus and visited their assigned schools, preparing them for the year ahead.

more and make an appointment at

Mount Sinai-Wantagh

Veterans Valor Walk honors community heroes

Community members laced up their sneakers and wore their patriotic colors at Eisenhower Park on Aug. 23 for the inaugural Veterans Valor Walk, hosted by State Sen. Steve Rhoads.

The half-mile walk around Salisbury Lake was designed to honor the sacrifices of local veterans while also supporting those in need. Participants were encouraged to bring nonperishable food donations, which were collected for the Vet Mart food pantry in Nassau County, located behind Nassau University Medical Center.

Following the walk, registered participants gathered for a complimentary bagel breakfast and refreshments. The event offered neighbors an opportunity to come together in a show of unity, gratitude, and service to ensure no veteran in the community goes hungry.

Please join attorney Michael Ettinger for a live webinar, “Four Advantages of Using Trusts,” on Wednesday September 10 at 6:30 p.m. Register in advance at trustlaw.com

Leaving a Vacation Home to Family

We all know the road to you know where is paved with good intentions. Nowhere is this more true than leaving a vacation or beach home for the children to share after the parents have passed. We have often advised that if they are all happy and get along well this might very well lead to the end of those good feelings and relationships.

Inevitably, some will do more work on the premises than others, some will use the premises more than others, there will be disagreements as to maintenance and repairs. Some may never visit or use it at all.

Initially, all expenses tend to be shared equally, since all are equal owners. The foregoing issues, however, will quickly arise and then it will often be difficult or impossible to determine what each child’s fair share of the expenses should be. The one living across the country who never visits may insist that they be “bought out” or, if that’s unaffordable to the others, that the house be sold so that they can get their share.

Sooner or later, one of the siblings dies and

their share goes to a sister-in-law or brother-in-law who may remarry and bring a stranger into the shared arrangement. Or let’s say an owner of onethird of the house dies, and now their share goes to their four children. How is that going to work?

Vacation homes are an excellent example of why good estate planning is often more social work than legal work. In these cases we anticipate the problems and spend the time to figure out who wants and uses the home and perhaps leave it to those children only and compensate the others with money or other assets. If they all use and enjoy the home, we sometimes require that it be held jointly with the right of survivorship, allowing the last of the joint owners to decide who to leave it to.

While the possibilities are endless, each case should be looked at and thought through so as to keep harmony in the family by preempting any potential conflicts. Otherwise, it’s often a case of the old adage that “ no good deed goes unpunished”.

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Seaford to host 9/11 memorial ceremony

The Seaford community will gather for its annual 9/11 Memorial Candle Lighting ceremony on Thursday, Sept. 11, at 6:45 p.m. at the Seaford 9/11 Memorial, located at Seaford High School.

The tradition, which began in 2002, honors the memory of those lost in the Sept. 11 attacks and has drawn more than 1,500 attendees in past years.

This year’s program

will feature remarks and prayers from retired U.S. Congressman Peter T. King, Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick J. Ryder, local clergy from Seaford-area churches and synagogues, and U.S. Army Colonel David Haskell. The Nassau County Police Pipe and Drum band and color guard will also participate.

— Charles Shaw

If you go …

What: Seaford 9/11 Memorial Candle Lighting ceremony

When: Thursday, Sept. 11, 6:45 p.m.

Where: Seaford High School, 1575 Seamans Neck Road, Seaford

Members enjoy friendship and camaraderie

The Men’s Club of Congregation Beth Tikvah held its annual Picnic on Tuesday, Aug. 19. A fun evening was had by all, eating, drinking, catching up with old friends and welcoming new friends.

Some events that the Men’s Club members enjoy throughout the year include: Once a month bowling league, Putting up the CBT Sukkah, Organizing and running annual CBT Chanukah

party, Passover wine sale, Leading two special Friday night Shabbats, Movie night, Golf outing, Night at the gym, Fishing trip, World Series pool, NY Islanders night, November Membership Dinner, and other interesting and fun activities.

You do not need to join Congregation Beth Tikvah to join the Men’s Club. For more information, call the office at (516) 785-2445.

Hofstra eyes big final season for Nuttall

By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com

The Hofstra men’s soccer team is aiming for the program’s fifth straight conference title and sending its longtime head coach out a winner.

Richard Nuttall announced just before kickoff of the 2025 campaign this would mark his last fall leading the Hofstra sidelines. Nuttall has elevated Hofstra into a powerhouse during his 37 years leading the sidelines with eight NCAA Tournament appearances and led the Pride to a fourth straight Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) championship in 2024.

“Sometimes it’s just the right time,” said Nuttall, who will leave the program to associate head coach Stephen Roche, who was named head coach in waiting last year, and longtime assistant Shaun Foster. “My two assistants are great people and they’re ready to go.”

Hofstra entered Nuttall’s final season ranked 23rd in the United Soccer Coaches Preseason Poll on heels of a 14-5-2 2024 campaign in which it earned the seven seed in the NCAA Tournament. The Pride’s historic season ended in heartbreaking fashion with a 2-1 second round loss to Vermont, who proceeded to go on a Cinderella run to win the national championship.

After a season-opening 2-1 loss to Bucknell on Aug. 21, Hofstra rebounded three days later with a 2-0 home victory against local Big East foe St. John’s on the strength of goals from seniors Laurie Goddard and Daniel Burko.

Nuttall said Goddard and Burko will play key roles in directing the offense this season on a squad that graduated much of last year’s starting lineup. Goddard, a midfielder from London, was named the Preseason CAA Player of the Year after tallying nine goals and five assists last season. Burko, a Norway native, transferred to Hofstra from Syracuse and will play a striker role with the Pride at forward.

Senior midfielder Aleksei Armas has

also factored into the offense early this season registering an assist on a goal from Goddard in the season-opening loss to Bucknell. The Floral Park High School product entered Hofstra last fall after playing two seasons at Adelphi University.

The backline is anchored by senior defender Gabriel Pacheco, a Brazil native who was named Honorable Mention Preseason All-CAA. The defense

held St. John’s to just two shots on goal in the Pride’s shutout of the Red Storm Aug. 24.

Senior goalkeeper Sean Bohan recorded two saves in the St. John’s clean sheet. The Dublin, Ireland native is patrolling the Pride net after playing the last two seasons at William Penn University in Oskaloosa, Iowa where he recorded a program record 20 shutouts.

“He’s got such a great presence about

him and we just named him a captain,” Nuttall said of Bohan. “He’s a vocal leader and gets people organized.”

Nuttall’s two other goalies on the roster are from Hofstra’s backyard in Gino Cervoni, an Elmont native and Carey High School alum, and freshman Aidan GaNunHear from Garden City South, a Chaminade product.

Hofstra’s next home match is scheduled for Sept. 13 against Long Island rival Stony Brook in its CAA home opener at 7 p.m. The Pride will then face Monmouth at home for another Saturday evening conference match on Sept. 20 before hosting Columbia on Sept. 23 at 7 p.m.

The Pride were picked to finish first in the CAA’s North Division, which also features Monmouth, Drexel, Northeastern and Stony Brook. The top three finishers will advance to the CAA Tournament with a chance to add to Nuttall’s championship resume and claim the league’s automatic bid into the NCAAs.

School district encourages positive change

district’s vision, mission and goals as well as the Seaford Scholar profile.

The profile, which highlights 10 traits — communicators, flexible, humorous, innovators, mindful, networkers, principled, reflective, resilient and risk takers — has become familiar to students and teachers since it was created in 2023. The orientation also included presentations on the district’s curriculum and instructional technology resources.

The new faculty members will be teaching a range of grades and subjects across the district’s schools, including English, English as a New Language, computer science, math, music, science, special education and technology.

Sheena Jacob, assistant superintendent for human resources and instructional support, said it is important for teachers to show the Seaford community that they support the children. “I always say to the teachers, ‘Treat them as your own children,’” Jacob said. “You can’t go astray from that. You come in with empathy and you give it 110 percent.”

The new school year will also bring a student voice to the Board of Education. Incoming senior Matthew Kind, president of the class of 2026, will serve as the board’s first ex-officio student member, with junior Michael Kofod, president of the class of 2027, as his alternate. Both were sworn in at the board’s reorganization meeting on July 9.

Kind will sit at the table during business meetings, and share updates on student life, while Kofod will step in if needed. Although they will not vote or attend executive sessions, one of the students will present a report as part of the agenda at each regular meeting.

“It is truly an honor to became ex-officio student member of the board of education,” Kind said in a

news release. “I am so incredibly excited to represent the student community here at Seaford, and I am prepared to advocate for and speak on behalf of my classmates.”

Both students are active in school life. Kind serves on the Shared Decision-Making Committee, the Athletic Leadership Team and Best Buddies, is a member of the National Honor Society and plays varsity football and baseball. Kofod is involved in student government and plays football, basketball and lacrosse.

Both students are proven student leaders, according to Pecora, with strong communication skills that make them suited for the role.

With the school year set to begin on Tuesday, the district set the tone for maintaining a supportive community, with faculty, staff and students working together to promote kindness, growth and positive change. “Being a Viking is something that’s palpable right now,” Pecora said. “Viking pride is very real, and we just want to keep the momentum going.”

5TH

6TH

7TH

8TH GRADE - BOYS

NIMBYs, YIMBYs and the great divide

Communities are split on the value of new housing developments, and their effects on quality of life

By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO, JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO & RENEE DELORENZO of Herald Community Newspapers

Fourth in a series on housing on Long Island.

Communities across Long Island often fall into one of two camps: those in favor of new developments, and those against.

For some residents, the common refrain is “Not in my backyard!” — disapproving of the construction of new residential and commercial projects near where they live. The would-be neighbors of these developments are directly affected by their construction in the short term, and often see lifestyle changes for years to come.

Marge Congello, president of the Central Bellmore Homeowners Association, disapproved of recent plans to develop an apartment building on Bedford Avenue in Bellmore. After attending a public event reviewing the proposal, she described the project as “too robust.”

“Am I against apartment buildings? No, but I think that there’s becoming an influx of them in Nassau County,” Congello said. “The builder wants to make money, the developer wants to make money, and then they go live somewhere else. They’re not living in my backyard.

“Our main priority is maintaining and improving the quality of life here in Uniondale and all of Nassau County,” Jacobs said.

Another housing program Jacobs regarded with skepticism was accessory dwelling units — an initiative spearheaded by Gov. Kathy Hochul in 2024 state budget talks to add extensions to existing homes to create more — and less expensive — living spaces.

“ADUs — the vast majority of people that I speak with are totally against it,” Jacobs said. “With ADUs, they come with more people, more cars.”

While accessory units may not be a welcome solution, Jacobs acknowledges a need for housing on Long Island. “I do believe that there should be some affordable housing,” she said. “We want to retain our children and our grandchildren. We want them to stay here.”

On the flip side . . .

“There were lots of issues,” she added of the Bedford Avenue proposal. “There’s the traffic congestion that comes along with the overdevelopment. There’s the overburdening of utilities that comes along — the overburdening of schools and emergency services.”

Congello cited the loss of green space to new real estate developments as a major cause for concern, describing it as a type of urbanization that disrupts Nassau and Suffolk counties’ way of life.

“You can’t go and change the zoning in a residential area to allow an apartment building and then ‘save our suburbs,’” she said. “You can’t have both.”

Congello has been a member of Bellmore’s homeowners’ association for 25 years, serving as “the eyes and the ears for the local residents,” she said.

“We’re here to protect the quality of life that we feel very strongly about, not to hurt any businesses,” she said. “It’s definitely not about stopping growth, but it’s maintaining both.”

Congello’s criticisms of overdevelopment extend beyond apartment projects. She was a prominent voice of the Say No to the Casino movement, which opposed plans by Las Vegas Sands to build a casino resort in Uniondale. She worked with Pearl Jacobs, president of the Nostrand Gardens Civic Association, who shares similar concerns about overdevelopment.

Other community activists disagree, welcoming new projects with open arms as YIMBYs — “Yes, in my backyard!”

According to Hunter Gross, vice president of the Hempstead Housing Coalition, combating the NIMBY movement remains a challenge. When towns hold meetings on housing projects — such as apartment buildings with affordable units — the key demographic those projects aim to serve is usually underrepresented, Gross noted. Instead, he said, the attendees are often homeowners, many of them older than the group that would benefit most.

New York state’s 2025 Nassau County Rent Guidelines Board explanatory statement — compiled by the state’s Home and Community Renewal agency — reports that 81.9 percent of homes in the county are owner-occupied, and 18.1 percent are renter-occupied in the county.

“You’re always going to have people who show up who don’t have valid concerns about the project,” Gross said. “It creates this sentiment that every single person is objecting to a housing project.

“Oftentimes, elected officials listen to the loudest people in the room,” he continued. “I don’t think economic development and housing policy should be dictated by the small minority of people.”

The National Low Income Housing Coalition reports that about 40 percent of people in need of affordable housing are in the workforce, with 42 percent working more than 40 hours a week. As well, 33 percent of extremely-lowincome households are seniors, and 18 percent are people with disabilities.

The dynamic often becomes one of “ladder-pulling,” when homeowners block opportunities for those trying to enter the market, Gross said.

He recalled an older man at a Sayville

The real estate development firm Economic Development Strategies submitted to a third round of community feedback on plans to build a new apartment building on Bedford Avenue in Bellmore on April 2. Bill Bonesso addressed would-be neighbors, answering questions and getting feedback.

public hearing saying that he had worked multiple jobs to afford living on Long Island. Gross responded that he also juggles more than two jobs, but structural issues like wages failing to keep pace with inflation leave younger workers at a disadvantage.

“It has nothing to do with you working hard enough,” he said.

Gross also noted that homes bought decades ago would be unaffordable for those same buyers today. In a 2024 survey conducted by the real estate brokerage Redfin, nearly 40 percent of homeowners said they could not afford their homes if they were purchasing them now. Redfin cited population growth, housing shortages and rising mortgage rates as explanations, adding that the median home sale price has doubled in the past decade.

“If we truly care about our communities on Long Island, I think it’s time to say that we’re not going to close the gates,” Gross said. “We’re not a gated community, and we can ensure that people can afford to live here.”

Why some support new development

In communities across Long Island, new housing developments often spark debate, as they try to balance the need for growth with residents’ desire to preserve the neighborhood character.

In Lynbrook, that tension was visible with the opening of the Langdon, a sixstory apartment building at Broadway and Langdon Place that added 201 rental units to the village. While some residents raised concerns about traffic, crowding and other changes to the community, others, including local business leaders and many residents, viewed the project as an opportunity for revitaliza-

tion.

Polly Talbott, a former president and the current executive director of the Lynbrook Chamber of Commerce, lives in the village and has seen the transition firsthand. Her dual perspective as resident and chamber leader informs her view of the YIMBY approach. While construction created temporary disruptions, the project was thoughtfully executed, Talbott said, and recent improvements, including updated streets and parking, have already enhanced the surrounding area.

“It will help our village to flourish,” she said. “I think it’s inspiring to see our community embracing it. We understand that people, some people, have a hard time with it, but it is a great opportunity for young people to find a home here, and it will bring just life and vitality to our streets.”

The project included 20 affordable apartments designated for households earning up to 80 percent of the area median income — six studios, 11 onebedroom apartments and three two-bedroom units, with monthly rents ranging from $2,212 to $3,147.

Asked about the cultural resistance often associated with NIMBYism, Talbott acknowledged that some residents worry about overpopulation or losing the village’s small-town character, sometimes expressed as a fear of “turning Long Island into the city.” From her perspective, these concerns are understandable but overstated. She emphasized that Lynbrook continues to offer green spaces, parks and community amenities, and that adding housing does not diminish the village’s character; rather, it strengthens it by welcoming

Debating the pros and cons of new housing

new residents who are invested in the community.

“Are we going to put one on every corner? No, we’re not,” Talbott said. “We can’t stop change. We can’t stop progress. And I think we’ve done it tastefully.”

Affordable housing and rental options are also critical in the broader context of Long Island’s housing crisis. With the rising cost of homeownership, apartment complexes like the Langdon provide alternatives for young professionals and families who would otherwise be priced out.

While NIMBY resistance often focuses on perceived disruptions, housing developments are increasingly seen as necessary to ensure that communities remain vibrant, inclusive and economically sustainable.

Bob Barker, president of the Locustwood Gotham Civic Association, in Elmont, said he believes that building affordable housing — or changing zoning laws to allow it — could help solve a nagging issue in some neighborhoods vacant houses.

“There are a lot of unoccupied buildings that are causing a blight in the community,” Barker said. “Let’s get rid of these zombie homes. Let’s get rid of these structures that have been there for years that are boarded up and look tacky.”

Barker argues, would benefit the community twofold: It would create more options for young people or families in need of affordable housing while eliminating properties that are poorly maintained and increasingly dilapidated. The economic benefits, Barker added, could also help towns attract new residents, generate more property tax revenue and boost local businesses.

And, he said, renovating existing homes to create accessory dwelling units could create jobs for local contractors.

“You want people to say, ‘You know what? This is a great program,’” Barker said.

But, he cautioned, community input is essential in determining what kinds of affordable housing make sense — whether apartments or smaller homes that can be converted into multi-family rentals.

NIMBYism vs. YIMBYism on Long Island

NIMBY (Not In My Backyard)

■ Oppose apartment projects as too extensive

■ Cite traffic, utility strain, crowded schools, and loss of green space

■ Fear suburban character will be lost

■ Skeptical of accessory dwelling units

■ Support quality of life over rapid growth

YIMBY (Yes, In My Backyard)

Marge CoNgeLLo President, Central Bellmore Homeowners Association

Best Neighborhood, a website that tracks real estate data, reports that the average vacancy rate in Nassau County is roughly 6 percent.

Converting vacant homes into affordable housing,

“These are things you have to look at in terms of how best the community agrees with it,” Barker said. “The community should play a vital part in what kind of structures and buildings are built.”

And, he stressed, just because current laws may limit development doesn’t mean they can’t be changed. As the community evolves over the years, laws need to reflect that change, and existing ones may not truly benefit the community.

“You can make amendments to the laws to make them better,” Barker said. “Progress is about change, and the only way you can do that is by amending the laws. We have to be proactive, and not reactive.”

■ Welcome new housing, including affordable units

■ Say opponents dominate public hearings while younger renters are absent

■ Argue that housing shortages and rising costs price out new residents

■ View projects like the Langdon, in Lynbrook, as revitalization

■ Advocate reusing vacant “zombie homes” as affordable housing

Salk sixth graders get ready for first day

Sixth graders at Jonas E. Salk Middle School in Levittown got their first look at their new building during orientation on Aug. 25, ahead of the start of the school year.

The event began in the auditorium, where administrators and staff welcomed students and shared guidance on what to expect in middle school. Older Peer Leaders then led small groups on tours of the building,

pointing out important offices and sharing advice on activities such as clubs and athletics. Students also received their locks, located their lockers, and practiced using their combinations.

Similar sessions were also held at Wisdom Lane Middle School, giving Levittown’s incoming sixth graders a chance to get comfortable before classes begin on Sept. 2.

TOWN

SPORTS

Massapequa hosts Wrexham soccer camp

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

The iconic Welsh soccer club Wrexham AFC (Association Football Club) touched down in Massapequa, bringing with it a wave of excitement, skill, and inspiration during a two-week youth soccer camp that captivated young players and families from across Long Island beginning Aug. 18 at John J. Burns Park.

The camp, hosted by the Massapequa Soccer Club, was made possible through the combined efforts of the Massapequa Soccer Club, the Long Island Junior Soccer League, the American Soccer Club, and the Town of Oyster Bay. According to Paul Bigilin, director of coaching for Massapequa Soccer Club, the collaboration with Wrexham was a dream come true for the local soccer community.

“We were able to connect with Wrexham and collaborate to hold a camp here for two weeks in August,” said Bigilin. Wrexham AFC is co-owned by actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.

The camp was a huge hit, drawing young soccer enthusiasts from Long Island and beyond. Kids not only had the chance to learn the game from toplevel coaches but also to connect with fellow players in a positive, high-energy environment.

“It has been very well received by the parents,” Bigilin said. “We’ve had kids from all over Long Island coming to participate in this camp. As the director of coaching for a community-based club, just to provide this experience and opportunity for the kids is amazing. It’s life-changing for these kids to see professionals on TV and now being able to train with coaches from Wrexham is fantastic.”

One of those kids is Charlotte Rismiller, an 8-year-old Massapequa resident who enthusiastically shared her favorite parts of the camp: “My favorite part is how fun the drills are. They are teaching us cool moves and they’re really good coaches,” she added. “This camp is very fun and we will totally come back again next year.”

Her brother, Noah, 9, echoed the excitement: “My favorite part is making new friends and learning new moves. I saw my sister playing soccer and it looked fun so I wanted to play too.”

For the coaches from Wrexham AFC, the camp was just as rewarding. Josh Evans, one of the visiting coaches, emphasized the value of cultural exchange and building connections through sport.

“I think it’s experiencing different cultures that makes this cool,” Evans said. “I’ve done this for many years now and working with different children and different age groups never gets old. We’re trying to make it educational

Wrexham coach Josh Evans spoke to kids

at Massapequa’s John J. Burns Park.

while also having fun at the same time. We are running and teaching drills for all different aspects of the game.”

Parents, too, have been impressed by the professionalism and passion brought by the Wrexham team. Roman Seltenreich, a father from Farmingdale, praised the camp’s atmosphere and impact on his children.

“It’s awesome! They really look like they live and breed soccer,” Seltenreich said. “Both my kids [Lillian, 9, and Charles, 6] have learned so much from the coaches while also having a great time. I’m definitely going to be talking this up to other parents. Every kid that plays soccer should be participating in this camp.”

Looking ahead, Bigilin hopes this inaugural partnership is just the beginning of a lasting relationship between Massapequa and Wrexham.

“We’d like to create a relationship, especially here for the community of Massapequa, where we would continue to host Wrexham AFC coaches for camps, and then have the opportunity to send Massapequa players, coaches and families over to Wales to experience the soccer culture they live over there,” Bigilin said.

Town goes mobile with feral cat program

By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

The increasing stray cat population in the Town of Hempstead has moved officials to unveil changes to its Trap, Neuter, Return program.

This month, there will be a new addition to the program: a vehicle to make the functions of the town’s animal shelter mobile.

“Today we’re announcing the return of our mobile Trap, Neuter and Return program — that’s TNR,” Supervisor John Ferretti said at a news conference in Franklin Square’s Rath Park, which is home to many feral cats, on Aug. 26. “An important initiative that addresses the feral and stray cap population in a way that is both humane and effective.”

Feral cats cannot be put up for adoption because they are accustomed to living outdoors, so the initiative will help the town prevent overpopulation and reduce the strain on animal shelters.

Officials said the cats would be trapped humanely, and that residents could rent traps.

After they are safely caught, the cats will be neutered and, when they recover in 48 hours or so, released.

The TNR program is making its return after being halted in 2015 by the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter in Wantagh. Officials did not comment on

Alyssa R. Griffin/Herald

Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter Director Ashley Behrens, far left, Town Clerk Kate Murray, Town Supervisor John Ferretti, Deputy Supervisor Dorothy L. Goosby and Town Councilman Thomas Muscarella discussed expansion of the town’s Trap, Neuter, Return program at Rath Park on Aug. 26.

“This program is to come out to the community, not just have trappers have to come to Wantagh to do it, so it’s more accessible for the people in the community,” Ashley Behrens, the animal shel-

across Long Island charge a fee.”

The new town vehicle will target Floral Park, Franklin Square, Lawrence, Levittown, Lynbrook, Malverne, Oceanside, Rockville Centre, Seaford and Wantagh for the remainder of the year. The animal shelter will also be expanding its availability from three days a week to four.

“The cats are allowed to recover on site in a controlled environment,” Ferretti explained. “Then they return to the exact location they were found, where they can live without adding to the overpopulation.”

The TNR program is described by the town as a humane, effective and widely recognized initiative that will reduce and manage the feral cat population. The neutering of cats will address the challenge by preventing the birth of kittens that often struggle to survive, and the program will also eliminate mating behaviors such as yowling, fighting and spraying, which in turn will help protect public health.

“This is about being proactive, compassionate and responsible,” Ferretti said. “With the launch of our mobile TNR vehicle, we’re making it easier than ever for residents to be part of the solution. Together we can create healthier communities for both people and animals.”

“We’re making the extra effort to bring our commitment to humane animal care directly into local neighborhoods,” Ferretti said. “This is further evidenced by the fact that our TNR program is free, whereas other programs

For more information on the Town of Hempstead’s program, visit HempsteadNY.gov.

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Volunteers will see Ryder Cup up close

By JEFFREY BESSEN jbessen@liherald.com

On the floor of the David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex at Hofstra University on Aug. 23, the atmosphere was quiet and simultaneously busy — like a golf tournament. Volunteers picked up their uniforms and credentials, while organizers moved briskly, helping them with size changes.

More than 4,300 volunteers, from 46 states — including over 2,700 from New York — and 28 countries will play a pivotal role in the historic Ryder Cup competition Sept. 23 to 28. The biennial showdown between the United States and Europe will take place on Bethpage State Park’s famed Black Course in Farmingdale — the first time the prestigious event has been held in New York.

Kasey Minnigan, who manages volunteer operations for the Ryder Cup through the PGA of America, said the event simply wouldn’t be happening without the thousands of people who signed up to help.

“We are just so excited to be a part of it,” said Minnigan, a Rockville Centre resident who grew up playing golf in Frisco, Texas, where the PGA is headquartered. “We get to give (the volunteers) access to the event for all six days, and they will be provided with two uniform shirts, a jacket, a headwear item and, most importantly, our credential.”

Minnigan, who captained golf teams in both high school, in Frisco, and college, at St. Francis, in Brooklyn, said that each volunteer becomes an ambassador for the event, whether on or off shift.

“We have shifts that cover up to 30 committees — from accessibility shuttles to the shops to on the course — every little thing is covered by volunteers,” she said. “The event would not be possible without them. When they’re on property during non-scheduled shift times, we ask that they wear their headwear so they can be easily noticed and able to step in if we need them.”

The merchandise tent — the largest the park has ever had for a golf event — will be manned by 1,200 volunteers, and there will be 1,300 marshals (also volunteers) stationed on the rope lines of Bethpage Black. Course marshals are tasked with crowd control, managing the pace of play and maintaining safety on the course.

“They are the backbone of this event,” Minnigan said of the volunteers. “We are just so grateful that they are excited to be a part of it.”

For many, the motivation to volunteer was simple: to experience world-class golf from just feet away. Sara Blau, a native of Brookville who now works for Citibank in Manhattan, said the bank offered slots to employees, and she jumped at the chance.

“I thought it would be a really cool opportunity for me to see the tournament up close,” Blau said. “I’m personally trying to get into golf more, taking lessons. I thought this would be a good opportunity for the start of my golf career.”

She said she sees golf as both a sport and a business tool. “It’s a lifelong sport, a great way to network, to take out clients,” she said. “And it’s just a lot of fun.”

For Andres Diez of Austin, Texas, the Ryder Cup will be a new volunteer experience, though he helped out at a Formula One race in his home state.

“I started playing as a kid, then took a hiatus,” he said. “It’s a great sport, especially playing with your friends in the summer. It’s a really nice way to ground yourself. You’re outdoors, it’s amazing. I love golf.”

Diez, a University of Texas graduate, said he was especially excited to see Scottie Scheffler — a fellow Longhorn who happens to be the top-ranked golfer in the world — lead Team USA.

“Honestly I think it’s worth it,” Diez said of the time and expense of traveling to New York.

Other volunteers are veterans of past tournaments at Bethpage. Diane and

Mark Wojcik, of upstate Troy, volunteered at the 2019 PGA Championship — also contested on Bethpage Black — and signed up for the Ryder Cup.

“We really enjoyed it, we had a great time, it was a great experience and we wanted to do it again,” Diane said.

She will work at the entry gates checking credentials, while her husband will serve as a marshal on the fourth hole — one of his favorites to play on the Black Course.

“It’s a lot longer than the courses that I usually play, and a lot more difficult, with the sand traps and the fescue,”

Mark said of the course’s tufted grass.

“It’s not what we’re used to. But that’s what makes it so special.”

“What I’m really excited about is just meeting new people,” his wife added.

“We’ve got Europe coming over, USA, I just think the whole experience is going to be amazing.”

The couple rented a recreational vehicle site near Bethpage for the week.

“After we win,” Mark joked, “the party is at our RV camp.”

For Hicksville resident Jonathan Gotto, this Ryder Cup has personal meaning. His father-in-law, Judge John Marks, who died in April 2024, first encouraged him to volunteer for the PGA tournament in 2019.

“He’s the reason that a lot of us are here,” Gotto said. “He was the guy who would call you up and say, ‘Hey, what are you doing? We’re doing the Ryder Cup in September.’”

Gotto admits that he’s not much of a golfer. “The best thing I have in my bag is a machete to find my ball after I tee off,” he said, adding that his fondest memory was of serving as a flagman for tee shots in 2019.

“I actually had goose bumps because it was one of the coolest experiences,” he said. “(John) Daly was teeing off, I’m standing right next to him shaking, hoping I didn’t mess it up. I’ve got photos of Tiger (Woods), (Phil) Mickelson walking right next to me. It’s just amazing.”

This year, Gotto will serve as a marshal on holes 4 and 11. “It’s a great week to see some of the pros,” he said. “It’s just amazing to be part of it.”

The Ryder Cup is one of the few sporting events in which volunteers can be part of the action without swinging a club. For Long Islanders, it’s also a chance to showcase their home course to the world.

Bethpage Black has built a reputation as one of the most demanding layouts in golf, with a sign at the first tee warning that it is “extremely difficult” and recommended only for highly skilled players. Previous major tournaments there drew enormous, raucous galleries, something both players and volunteers expect again.

And for many, the reward will be what Blau called “seeing the tournament up close and personal” — an experience no TV broadcast could match.

the girl Scouts of nassau County will host their second annual thin mint Sprint 5K race and family fun Walk at Jones Beach State park on Sept. 14 to raise funds, celebrate girl Scouts Love State parks Weekend, and support programs that make Scouting accessible to all girls.

5K run raises money for Girl Scout programs

Energy & Nature Center, on the west end of the park.

Bynum said last year’s inaugural event drew more than 550 participants to the Jones Beach boardwalk and raised just under $10,000 for Girl Scout programs.

“It was really fun,” she said of last year’s event. “I had a great time. It was a beautiful day, beautiful location at Jones Beach, one of my favorite places. And it was just great to see folks of all ages from across the island come out to support us and our efforts.”

She said the funds raised are designed to help girls overcome financial barriers to participation, whether that means covering membership dues, uniforms or program fees. Fundraising efforts like the Thin Mint Sprint allow the organization to offset those costs and ensure every girl has access to the Scouting experience.

“It allows girls to participate in all of the experiences that Girl Scouts has,” Bynum said.

Volunteers will include both Scouts and longtime supporters, assisting with water and t-shirt distribution and race coordination. Last year, Wantagh Troop 3305 member Faith Stallone handed out medals while dressed as the Thin Mint mascot, adding a fun touch to the event.

“I was handing out medals to all the girls that were crossing the finish line,” she said. “There were all these little kids that were coming up to me, and they were so cute. They were so happy when they were crossing.”

Her mother, Kerri, who leads Troop 3305, also volunteered by photographing runners as they crossed the finish line. Both plan to return as volunteers for this year’s run.

“It’s just such a great fundraiser with

such a great end cause,” Kerri said. “Everybody has such a great time.”

Bynum said preparing for the event teaches Scouts valuable lessons in organization and communication, supporting the mission of building girls of courage, confidence and character while working together to make the world a better place.

The occasion also gives troop leaders a chance to share resources with one another, reflecting the Girl Scout Law’s principle of using resources wisely. Leaders can exchange ideas and strategies that have worked for their troops, while younger Scouts have the opportunity to learn from their peers.

“I enjoy building bridges with the younger Scouts, but she’s making friends as leaders,” Faith said.

Participants in the 5K Race and Family Fun 1-mile Walk will enjoy scenic views of the park, along with special activities at the nature center.

In addition, this year’s event will highlight team participation, with prizes for categories such as largest team and best outfits or costumes. Schools and local companies are encouraged to form teams to help raise funds.

While there is no set financial goal, Bynum expressed hope that this year’s race and walk will attract even more participants than last year and inspire greater support for the fundraising efforts.

“I’m hoping we have beautiful weather again,” Bynum said. “I love the volunteer support that we get, and also just the seeing all the families out there really reminds you of the importance of Girl Scouts.”

For more information on registration and sponsorship opportunities, visit GSNC.org/thin-mint-sprint.

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Nassau unveils new strategic police unit

Forty-member squad to deploy as academic year begins, with focus on school and public safety

By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman has announced the formation of a new specialized strategic response team, set to be deployed across the county, which he said would provide an added layer of security and help keep communities safe.

“Our new strategic response team will be equipped with people who are experienced, who will be privy to intelligence and information on a real-time basis,” Blakeman said, “to make sure that they have the information they need to make sure that our communities are safe.”

The 40-person team will be rolled out as the school year begins, with members working closely with county schools and colleges to identify potential threats and ensure the safety of students, teachers and faculty.

“They will be able to travel and have the flexibility to go to places where they are needed,” Blakeman said at a news conference on Aug. 27 at the Nassau County Police Department Center for Training and Intelligence, alongside Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder, county Council of School Superintendents President Marie Testa and Legislators Samantha Goetz, Thomas McKevitt and Rose Marie Walker.

The team will receive weekly intelligence briefings, according to Blakeman, who added that drones would also be used to monitor schools and communities. While he said that the unit’s initial purpose is the monitoring of schools, its responsibilities could expand to handling large public gatherings, such as concerts and protest, as well as increased crime activity.

The new response team will serve as another arm

County Executive Bruce Blakeman announced a new police response team at the NCPD Center for Training and Intelligence on Aug. 27, along with a $1.4 million investment in cameras equipped with artificial intelligence.

of one of the largest police departments in the state. The NCPD currently has the largest mounted unit on the East Coast outside New York City, and fully staffed K-9 and motorcycle units, alongside 84 tactical officers. And the department will be adding 10 members to its Emergency Service Unit, according to the county executive’s office.

Blakeman detailed another county initiative, a $1.4 million investment in 100 license-plate-reading cameras equipped with artificial intelligence that will be purchased with asset forfeiture funds. The technology, Blakeman said, will help the department recover license plate information on cars in Nassau County with greater efficiency.

“If there is a white car that has a golden retriever hanging out the window,” he said, “that AI will get us every car that is white with a golden retriever hanging out the window.”

Ryder praised both initiatives, arguing that they demonstrate the lengths the county will go to “protect your kids,” and “make sure that they’re safe.”

Testa, the North Bellmore School District superintendent, said that the updated security measures introduced in schools are something that she and the council of superintendents “respect, appreciate and admire.”

“We have kept students safe together,” she said. “We have kept students happy to come to school together.”

STEPPING OUT

From to table

By Karen Bloom

Labor Day may have come and gone, but there are still opportunities to fire up that grill to savor summer’s waning days before we head into apple picking, pumpkins and all those harvest season delights around the corner.

When it comes to entertaining outdoors, easy yet flavorful dishes that spotlight the season’s bounty can keep prep time to a minimum. Plus, they’re sure to please guests’ palates.

Skirt Steak with Roasted Corn Salad

• 1 1/2 pounds skirt steak, cut into 4-inch pieces

• 1/3 cup Tabasco Chipotle Pepper Sauce

• 1 tablespoon ground cumin

• 1 large garlic clove, crushed

In a large bowl, combine chipotle pepper sauce, cumin and garlic; add skirt steaks. Toss to mix well; cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes or overnight.

Preheat grill to high. Grill skirt steak about 5 minutes, or until of desired doneness, turning once. To serve, plate steak with corn salad.

Corn Salad

• 4 ears corn on the cob, shucked

• 2 large tomatoes, chopped

• 1 small red onion, diced

• 1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted and diced

• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped basil

• 2 tablespoons lime juice

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon Tabasco Chipotle Pepper Sauce

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

To prepare corn salad: Preheat grill to medium. Grill corn about 5 to 10 minutes, turning frequently, until tender-crisp. When cool enough to handle, cut corn from cob. In medium bowl, combine corn, tomatoes, red onion, avocado, basil, lime juice, olive oil, chipotle pepper sauce to taste, and salt; toss to mix well.

End-of-summer dining al fresco

Hoisin Garlic Drumsticks with Tomato-Corn Salad

Foreigner

Legendary rock band Foreigner visits Tilles Center for a special one-nightonly benefit concert, hosted by original lead singer Lou Gramm. Hear special acoustic renditions of the band’s biggest hits such as “Cold As Ice,” “Juke Box Hero”, “Waiting For A Girl Like You,” “I Want To Know What Love Is,” “Hot Blooded,” and more in a rare and intimate unplugged format. The concert celebrates the band’s groundbreaking collaboration with Tilles Center LIU Post Theatre Company to develop and stage “Feels Like The First Time — The Foreigner Musical.”All proceeds from the evening will support the production and LIU and Tilles Center’s New Works Initiative. This exciting new production is to be directed directed by Broadway icon Adam Pascal (“Rent,””Aida,” “Cabaret,”, “Chicago,”, “Something Rotten!” ) slated to premiere in April 2026. Pascal also performs with Foreigner in what is sure to be a truly memorable event.

• 8 chicken drumsticks, about 2 pounds total

• Kosher salt, to taste

• Ground black pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup hoisin garlic sauce or hoisin barbecue

sauce

• 3 ears corn

• 1 pound tomatoes, cut into small dice

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• Thinly sliced basil leaves, for garnish

Season drumsticks with salt and pepper, and rub with about 1/3 cup hoisin sauce, reserving rest for basting.

Marinate at least 30 minutes, up to four hours.

As chicken is marinating, prepare grill for both direct (medium-high heat) and indirect cooking. Discard used marinade.

Grill chicken, starting with skin side down, about 8-10 minutes, keeping lid closed as much as possible and turning chicken once or twice.

Move to indirect heat, cover grill and continue to cook for another 25-35 minutes until juices run clear and an internal temperature of 165∫F has been reached, basting with extra sauce occasionally in last 10 minutes of cooking.

To make salad, boil corn if needed for about 2-3 minutes, then cut kernels off cob.

Toss with tomatoes and olive oil. Season to taste with salt and pepper and stir in basil. Serve salad and drumsticks together.

Mediterranean Vegetables

• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar (seasoned)

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 1 teaspoon salt, plus extra, to taste

• 1/2 teaspoon pepper, plus extra, to taste

• 1 tablespoon, plus 1 1/2 teaspoons, fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh garlic, minced

• 1 cup fresh zucchini, sliced into 1 3/4-inch long, 1/4-inch thick planks

• 1 cup fresh green pepper strips

• 1 cup fresh red pepper strips

• 8 fresh stalks asparagus, slicing off 1/4 inch from bottom of stalk

• 1 fresh portobello mushroom, sliced into 1/2- inch squares

• 1 cup fresh eggplant, diced into 1/2-inch squares

Heat grill to 375 F.

In large bowl, mix together rice vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper, parsley and garlic to create marinade.

Clean vegetables then place them in marinade in small batches. Toss to coat then place in foil pouch. Pour remaining marinade over vegetables and seal pouch.

Bake in oven or over indirect heat on grill 25 minutes. Add salt and pepper, to taste, after removing pouch from heat.

Chef’s tip: Open pouch after 20 minutes of cooking and allow vegetables to crisp slightly under direct heat for remaining 5 minutes.

Friday, Sept. 5, 8 p.m. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

Maren Morris

Maren Morris brings “The Dreamsicle Tour” to the Paramount stage with special guest Jade LeMac. Morris has broken boundaries, smashed records and affirmed herself as a dynamic vocalist, prolific songwriter and showstopping performer. Her catalog encompasses a trio of acclaimed albums, namely “Hero” (2016), “Girl” (2019), and “Humble Quest” (2022). She’s the rare force of nature equally suited to collaborating with Zedd on the 6x-platinum “The Middle” or duetting with everyone from Taylor Swift, Stevie Nicks and Sheryl Crow to Teddy Swims and Hozier. She entered a bold new era with the release of her “Intermission” EP in August, which features the MUNA-produced and playful single “Push Me Over.” Maren promises to be unapologetically herself — and it shows in this music and in what is next to come.

Wednesday, Sept. 10, 7:30 p.m. $114.25, $92, $71.75, $65.25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

AUG

28 YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CALENDAR

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 entertainmentrelated activities to the fascinating personalities involved. It encompasses dance, music, theater, movies, circus, boating, and beach scenes, along with horseracing and various sports, both active and passive Also featured are archival items from The Metropolitan Opera and the New York Philharmonic, including costumes by Marc Chagall for Die Zauberflöte, vintage fashion items by such designers as Alfred Shaheen, and iconic costumes from the Folies-Bergère in Paris. On view until Nov. 9.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: Ongoing

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

Storybook

SEPT

Stroll

6

Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for the next storybook adventure. Stroll the gardens and enjoy a telling of Allison Sweet Grant’s “Leif and the Fall.” With a take-home craft. For ages 3-5. Storybook Strolls start at the Beech Tree (next to Westbury House), and end at the Thatched Cottage.

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.

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

Art Talk

SEPT

7

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

The Australian Pink Floyd Show

SEPT

19

Parti-gras at the park

Poison frontman Bret Michaels and former Eagles member Don Felder bring their spirited concert to Eisenhower Park. Rock on to fan favorite tunes.

• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov

Jazz Age Grooves

The Sparrows are back at Old Westbury Gardens, during Gatsby at the Gardens weekend. After four sold-out productions the Sparrows return with an all new vaudeville revue. Enjoy highenergy jazz, show-stopping choreography, and cheeky comedy of the 1920s. $40. Limited availability. Reservations required.

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: 7 p.m.

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

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

• Time: 7:30 p.m.

After over 40 years performing, it is time to shine on again with The Australian Pink Floyd Show. Be there when the band returns from Down Under to the Paramount stage. The seminal album Wish You Were Here is performed in its entirety, including all nine parts of “Shine On You Crazy Diamond,” along with more of Pink Floyd’s greatest hits from The Dark Side of the Moon and The Wall. See what critics have acclaimed as “the gold standard” of tribute acts with stunning special effects that re-create Pink Floyd’s legendary stage shows. The band delivers a memorable experience. — with colorful lighting and video, pinpoint lasers, gargantuan inflatables and flawless live sound that was the benchmark of Pink Floyd shows. Replicating music from every phase of Pink Floyd’s journey, this tour reinforces the band’s dedication to the heritage of Barrett, Waters, Gilmour, Wright & Mason. With songs that mean so much to Pink Floyd fans everywhere, this is an unforgettable tribute to an iconic band’s classic album. $105.25, $88, $77.75, $66.25, $55.75.

seating. Registration required.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: 3 p.m.

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

SEPT

10

Bingo at Temple B’Nai

Torah

Temple B’nai Torah hosts weekly bingo with prizes, progressive games, and refreshments every Wednesday and Thursday.

• Where: 2900 Jerusalem Ave., Wantagh

• Time: Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m.; Thursdays, 7:15-10 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 221-2370

SEPT 11

Game time

Play Mah Jongg and Canasta every Thursday at Congregation Beth Tikvah. Snacks and drinks are provided. $5 contribution.

• Where: 3710 Woodbine Ave., Wantagh

• Time: Thursdays, noon-4 p.m.

• Contact: mahjonggCBT@ yahoo.com or (516) 785-2445

SEPT

13

Heroes Against Heroin 5K Walk

The John Brower, Jr. Foundation and Outreach host the 10th annual Heroes Against Heroin 5K Walk at Jones Beach State Park. The event raises awareness and funds for overdose prevention, education, and treatment services. Registration is $25. All are welcome to participate.

• Where: Jones Beach State Park, Parking Field 1, Wantagh

• Time: Check-in at 9 a.m., walk begins at 10 a.m.

• Contact: opiny.org/donate/ brower-walk or contact Marsha Radulov at (718) 847-9233 ext. 2310

In concert

Eisenhower Park welcomes country singer-songwriter Ashley McBryde. She delivers tales of broken hearts and the honky-tonk life.

• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow

• Time: 6 p.m.

• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

Thin Mint Sprint/ Family Fun Walk

Join the Girl Scouts of Nassau County for the 2nd annual Thin Mint Sprint 5K and 1-mile Family Fun Walk at Jones Beach during Girl Scouts Love State Parks Weekend. All ages welcome. Proceeds support Girl Scout programming across Nassau County.

• Where: Jones Beach State Park, Wantagh

• Time: 5K starts at 8:30 a.m., 1-mile walk starts at 10 a.m.

• Contact: gsnc.org for registration and info

Wantagh Warrior 9/11

Memorial

5K and Fun Run

Join in the second annual Wantagh Warrior 9/11 Memorial 5K and Fun Run, presented by the Gary Sinise Foundation. The event honors those lost on 9/11 and supports community remembrance efforts.

• Where: Wantagh High School, 3297 Beltagh Ave.

• Time: Fun Run begins at 8:15 a.m., 5K begins at 9 a.m.

• Contact: wantaghschools.org/ ww911m5krun

SEPT

20

Block Party With Imagination Playground

Get the kids ready to join in an oversized “block” party at Long Island Children’s Museum! Stack them, crawl through them or team up to make dream designs come true. Back by popular demand these giant, lightweight blocks turn playtime into extraordinary adventures. Construct castles, mazes, fantastical creatures or secret hideaways in this incredible exhibit experience. Imagination Playground blue blocks provide a blank canvas for children to express their creativity and bring their ideas to life. Giant and lightweight, these blocks encourage handson exploration and problemsolving, collaboration and spatial awareness. Through Nov. 2.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

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

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.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17

6:00-9:00PM

The Heritage Club at Bethpage 99 Quaker Meeting House Road Farmingdale, New York

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4,

Public Notices

MORTGAGE LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST MARK VAUGHAN, CASEY VAUGHAN, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered January 8, 2020, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 17, 2025 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 3982 Kingsberry Road, Seaford, NY 11783. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Plainedge-Wantagh, partly in the Town of Oyster Bay and Partly in The Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 52, Block 450, Lot 19A & 19B. Approximate amount of judgment $433,510.28 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #008440/2015. Jared Kasschau, Esq, Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 16-000 890 86618 155069

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that a resolution was duly adopted by the Board of Fire Commissioners of the WANTAGH FIRE DISTRICT, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, on the twenty fifth day of August 2025, subject to permissive referendum as provided for by the General Municipal law. An extract of the resolution is as follows: The WANTAGH FIRE DISTRICT has by appropriate resolution established a certain capital reserve fund designated as the Capital Reserve Fund, established pursuant to Section 6(g) of the General Municipal Law, in an account for deposit of said Capital Reserve Fund entitled, “The Wantagh Fire District, Section 6(g) General Municipal Building and Grounds Capital Reserve Fund”; and; in which account is sufficient funds to accomplish the

purposes herein after set forth, namely, Station 1 & 2 Roof Replacement Project including labor, material, inspection and delivery, incidental expenses, advertising, and attorney’s fees, in order to maintain the efficiency of the Wantagh Fire District in the discharge of their duties in preserving the lives and property of the residents of the community and the said project is deemed in the best interest of the residents of the Wantagh Fire District.

The resolution further provides that there be transferred from the present Capital Reserve Fund entitled, “The Wantagh Fire District, Section 6(g) General Municipal Building and Grounds Capital Reserve Fund” of the Wantagh Fire District a sum not to exceed Four Hundred Thousand ($400,000) dollars and the District Treasurer is authorized to effect such transfer from time to time as necessary for the project.

This resolution is subject to a permissive resolution and shall not take effect until thirty (30) days, as provided by the General Municipal Law.

Dated: August 25th 2025

By order of The Board of Fire Commissioner Brendan J. Narell Superintendent 155522

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that a resolution was duly adopted by the Board of Fire Commissioners of the WANTAGH FIRE DISTRICT, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, on the twenty fifth day of August 2025, subject to permissive referendum as provided for by the General Municipal law.

An extract of the resolution is as follows: The WANTAGH FIRE DISTRICT has by appropriate resolution established a certain capital reserve fund designated as the Capital Reserve Fund, established pursuant to Section 6(g) of the General Municipal Law, in an account for deposit of said Capital Reserve Fund entitled, “The Wantagh Fire District, Section 6(g) General Municipal Building and Grounds Capital Reserve Fund”; and; in which account is sufficient funds to accomplish the

purposes herein after set forth, namely, Station 6 Shop Roof Replacement Project including labor, material, inspection and delivery, incidental expenses, advertising, and attorney’s fees, in order to maintain the efficiency of the Wantagh Fire District in the discharge of their duties in preserving the lives and property of the residents of the community and the said project is deemed in the best interest of the residents of the Wantagh Fire District. The resolution further provides that there be transferred from the present Capital Reserve Fund entitled, “The Wantagh Fire District, Section 6(g) General Municipal Building and Grounds Capital Reserve Fund” of the Wantagh Fire District a sum not to exceed One Hundred Twenty-Five Thousand ($125,000) dollars. dollars and the District Treasurer is authorized to effect such transfer from time to time as necessary for the project. This resolution is subject to a permissive resolution and shall not take effect until thirty (30) days, as provided by the General Municipal Law.

Dated: August 25th 2025 By order of The Board of Fire Commissioner Brendan J. Narell Superintendent 155523

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a resolution was duly adopted by the Board of Fire Commissioners of the WANTAGH FIRE DISTRICT, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, on the twenty fifth day of August 2025, subject to permissive referendum as provided for by the General Municipal law. An extract of the resolution is as follows: The WANTAGH FIRE DISTRICT has by appropriate resolution established a certain capital reserve fund designated as the Capital Reserve Fund, established pursuant to Section 6(g) of the General Municipal Law, in an account for deposit of said Capital Reserve Fund entitled, “The Wantagh Fire District, Section 6(g) General Municipal Building and Grounds Capital Reserve Fund”; and; in which account is sufficient funds to

accomplish the purposes herein after set forth, namely, Station 4 HVAC Replacement Project including labor, material, inspection and delivery, incidental expenses, advertising, and attorney’s fees, in order to maintain the efficiency of the Wantagh Fire District in the discharge of their duties in preserving the lives and property of the residents of the community and the said project is deemed in the best interest of the residents of the Wantagh Fire District. The resolution further provides that there be transferred from the present Capital Reserve Fund entitled, “The Wantagh Fire District, Section 6(g) General Municipal Building and Grounds Capital Reserve Fund” of the Wantagh Fire District a sum not to exceed One Hundred Thousand ($100,000) dollars and the District Treasurer is authorized to effect such transfer from time to time as necessary for the project. This resolution is subject to a permissive resolution and shall not take effect until thirty (30) days, as provided by the General Municipal Law.

Dated: August 25th 2025

By order of The Board of Fire Commissioner Brendan J. Narell Superintendent 155521

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS

Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Old Town Hall, 350 Front Street, Room 230, Second Floor, Hempstead, New York on 09/10/2025 at 9:30 A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals: THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M. 476/25. - 477/25. SEAFORD - Glaywson Rodrigues, Variance, lot area occupied, maintain roof over patio attached to dwelling; Special exception to maintain

Volleyball tourney helps collect food donations

State Sen. Steve Rhoads hosted the First Annual 4-on-4 Charity Beach Volleyball Tournament at the Jones Beach volleyball courts on Aug. 9. Eleven teams participated, each donating canned and nonperishable food items in place of an entry fee. The donations supported the Bellmore-Merrick Community Cupboard during a time when need is typically high.

The tournament collected enough food to fill the pantry’s bins, helping provide for local families during the summer months when school-based food programs are paused.

Rhoads congratulated the winning team—Luke Peckham, Alec Bloch, Tommy Dillon, and David Bein—who received trophies following their championship victory.

“This tournament was more than just a great day at the beach—it was a reminder that when our community comes together, we can make a real difference,”

Rhoads said. “The support for the Bellmore-Merrick Community Cupboard will help families right here at home, and I’m proud of the generosity and spirit shown by everyone who participated. We proved that sports can be more than a game— they can be a way to bring people together, strengthen bonds, and create lasting change.”

Josephine Parlagreco, representing the Bellmore-Merrick Community Cupboard, shared her appreciation for the effort.

“The Community Cupboard families are grateful for the support of Senator Rhoads and his office,” she said. “The volleyball tournament was a fun way to raise awareness for the issue of hunger in our local area.”

Rhoads said he hopes to continue the tournament as an annual event.

Public Notices

shed higher & larger than permitted & exceeding horizontal maximum on 2 sides., W/s Joyce La., 275.39’ N/o Marilyn Dr., a/k/a 1442 Joyce La. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550. This notice is only for new cases in Seaford within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different

hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals

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

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

properly come before it.

155500

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

LEGAL NOTICE Notice

Please take notice the Wantagh Fire District of the Town of Hempstead County of Nassau, New York, has changed the date of 2026 Budget Hearing and their regular meeting for October 2025. The original date of October 14th 2025 was published in error. The 2026 Budget Hearing will now be

held on Monday, October 20th 2025 at 7:00pm. The October 2025 meeting of the Board of Fire Commissioners will follow at 8:00pm. Both events will take place at the District Administrative building located at 2045 Wantagh Avenue, Wantagh, New York By order of The Wantagh Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners Brendan J. Narell

Superintendent Dated: August 155520

Can we just handle some problems later?

Spacious Duplex

Q. We are in contract for a house we were lucky to find. The price is right, fortunately, but we think it has some problems, mostly legal. The basement has a bathroom but is otherwise unfinished, except for the walls on either side of the stairs and a closet underneath. The sellers are selling as-is, so we want to just handle it later, but is this going to be a problem?

A. The answers are yes and no. In all of the selling cycles I’ve witnessed, issues seem to be mostly based on what the market is like, rather than the reality that it’s always best to have everything legally wrapped up before the closing. I’ve noticed that when there are fewer properties to sell, real estate and lending businesses tend to be less concerned with permits and more concerned with cash flow. Close now and worry about the open issues later.

It’s just like during the coronavirus pandemic, when prices climbed because there were fewer buyers of products, food and services, but the bills still had to be paid. The federal government sent out funds to help businesses survive.

You faced possibly overlooking the legality and absorbing considerable expenses later, when you decide to take care of issues or are forced to at the next sale, when banks have more foreclosures on their books and must make certain the properties they are selling are legal.

All the professionals helping you through the closing are doing their job, but I’m not certain they know how expensive the permit process can be for you. When I sit with clients for the first time, I look at their records and compare them with their property, becoming the “bad guy” for pointing out that the proposed work will now have to include these open items, complicating the cost and the process. This happens weekly. There is often a glut of permit applications for old issues.

Knowing that you really want this house, you’ll have to face the fact that building officials look at your property from a position of safety, and can easily require you to legalize the finished basement, even with only a few finished walls. In the beginning sections of the state code, building officials are given authority to interpret the regulations. You definitely would need to have plans for the basement, to show the bathroom and a plumbing permit as well as an electrical inspection and building permit.

In most jurisdictions, the plans examiners have leaned toward saying that even one or a few finished walls — like the bathroom, closet and stairway walls — constitute a finished basement. In that case, you would also need to have a second way to escape, by either adding a taller window and a 9-square-foot escape well or a door and stairs on an outside wall, so you could exit from the main basement room. I have watched the cost of doing just this rise from $3,000 to over $12,000. Good luck!

the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

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Autos Wanted

College football just ain’t what it used to be

Besides the excellent education I was fortunate to receive at Notre Dame Law School, and the interesting people I had the opportunity to meet, and the lasting friendships I forged during those years, there was the added benefit of watching up close as the Fighting Irish won the 1966 college football national championship. As an IrishCatholic kid from Sunnyside, Queens, that was as good as it could get.

In Catholic neighborhoods in those days, Notre Dame football personified IrishAmerica’s acceptance into the American mainstream. Beginning in the 1920s and continuing through the mid-1950s, Notre Dame won more national championships and had more All-Americans than any other college football team. But by the time I got there, the famed Golden Dome had lost its luster. During eight long seasons under three head coaches from 1956 to 1963, Notre Dame lost more games than it won. The prevailing wisdom was that its academic standards precluded it from becoming a major college football power again.

TThen, in 1964, Notre Dame hired Ara Parseghian as its head coach. The “Era of Ara” had begun. In 1964 and ’65, the Irish were back in the Top 10, and in 1966 they won it all, clinching the national championship with a 51-0 victory over longtime rival Southern California, led by such luminaries as Heisman Trophy finalist and All-American quarterback Terry Hanratty, eventual four-time Super Bowl champion Rocky Bleier and future NFL Hall of Famer Alan Page.

A less-heralded but vital member of that championship team was substitute quarterback Coley O’Brien, who would have been the starter on almost any other college team. Stricken with diabetes halfway into the 1966 season, O’Brien hadn’t played for four weeks when, in the second-to-last game of the season against Michigan State, he was suddenly called into action to replace Hanratty, who’d suffered a fractured shoulder with the Irish losing 10-0. O’Brien played brilliantly to lead two scoring drives, and Notre Dame tied Michigan State and preserved its unbeaten record.

ship-clinching victory over USC.

After his college career, O’Brien attended Notre Dame Law School and became a successful attorney in Washington, D.C. When I chaired the House Homeland Security Committee, he served as a committee counsel. I was proud to call him my friend, and it meant a lot when he, Hanratty, Bleier and other members of the 1966 team would come to my district to campaign for me.

he ‘student athlete’ has become a hired gun, and school loyalty is traded for big bucks.

O’Brien died several weeks ago. Reflecting on his life and career got me thinking about how much the whole concept of college football has been altered, in many instances not for the better. The attraction of the game was that it wasn’t professional. There was the appeal of watching young athletes competing for their schools, cheered on by an often fanatical fan base. And there were the bitter rivalries: Notre Dame-Michigan State, AlabamaGeorgia, Michigan-Ohio State.

IThe following week, despite the fact that four starting players were sidelined with injuries, O’Brien led Notre Dame to the resounding, national champion-

Sure, some of it was mythical. There were recruiting violations. Some athletes were given academic shortcuts. But there was so much that was genuine. Hanratty might be on the cover of Time magazine or Sports Illustrated but then be seen on campus, eating in the same dining hall and trudging to the

same classes as other students. That world of college football — school loyalty, amateurism and tradition — barely exists anymore. Now paid for their name, image and likeness, recruited players can go to the highest bidder for millions of dollars. And they can opt out of the following season and the season after that by entering the “transfer portal,” again able to go to the highest bidder. (Years ago, Minnesota was sanctioned by the NCAA when the coach gave a player $100 to fly home for his father’s funeral.) So you can have a fiveyear senior suddenly playing starting quarterback for a team whose campus he has never set foot on and will be leaving at season’s end. Players can even go back and forth from one team to the other in succeeding seasons. The “student athlete” becomes hired gun. School spirit and loyalty are traded for big bucks.

Sure, there will still be pageantry and marching bands, and I’ll still be watching on Saturdays. But it won’t be the same. What I will always have, though, is the lasting memory of what Coley O’Brien and his 1966 national championship teammates meant to their many fans, and to college football.

Go, Irish!

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

Now Trump wants to put lipstick on this pig

’ve been thinking about President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill, which Congress passed in July. Recently Trump stated that it was time to call the legislation something else. But what do you call a bill that is highly unpopular with the public and is set to do much damage?

Shakespeare said it best in “Romeo and Juliet,” when he wrote, “What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” So Shakespeare might have agreed that no matter what you call this bill, it will have the same impact on the American public.

To begin with, when you pass a thousand-page piece of legislation, it will have good parts and bad parts. Members of the majority party in Congress are forced to vote for the entire bill, and they don’t have the luxury of stripping out the bad from the good. So they have to live with the results.

A poll last month by the Pew Research Center found that 46 percent of the country disapproved of the law, and just 32 percent approved of it, with 23 percent saying they weren’t sure. It seems obvious that calling it something else won’t change the public’s feelings about it.

NWhy is the bill so broadly unpopular? Much of the publicity about it prior to its passage was negative. Almost every part of it got people’s attention, and those who opposed it were much more vocal than its supporters. Perhaps most important, it was clear that millions of people who are now eligible for health care were going to be knocked off the eligibility rolls.

costs for families, and raise premiums for employer-sponsored plans.

o matter what the president calls his signature legislation, it’s not popular.

In the lead-up to the passage of the bill, supporters in the House of Representatives portrayed it as being aimed at eliminating “waste, fraud and abuse.” There is no doubt that there are some Medicaid participants who should be disqualified, but the vast majority of people in the program are worthy recipients. Supporters of the legislation claimed that no person in the program who was currently employed would lose their coverage, but that is not true. Because states will get less federal revenue, they will be forced to drop qualified people from the Medicaid rolls.

the United States experience food insecurity, meaning they have limited or uncertain access to adequate food. Most SNAP recipients go to work every day, but don’t earn enough to feed their loved ones. The SNAP program provides the help they need.

Historically, the Republican Party has favored letting the states run assistance programs and keeping Washington out of it. But the Big Beautiful Bill cuts federal allocations to the states, and leaves them to decide who should participate in federal programs. The net result is that the states will be the bad guys when it comes to doling out assistance funding.

The law will cut more than $1 trillion in Medicaid funding, and it’s estimated that more than 10 million people will lose their health coverage by 2034, including seniors, children and people with disabilities. States with high poverty rates are particularly at risk, because they rely on federal funding to maintain Medicaid and related programs. The loss of coverage will increase medical

For years, the more conservative members of the House expressed their opposition to the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or food stamps, on the grounds that it was too progressive and costly. They got their wish in the new bill, which would, by some estimates, cut federal spending on the program by more than $200 billion over 10 years. It’s worth noting that nearly 50 million people of all ages in

In the next few months, at the insistence of the president, there will be efforts to change the conversation about what is in the bill. Even though many of its provisions take effect after next year’s midterm elections, however, many millions of Americans are firmly opposed to it, and no amount of slicing, dicing and finessing of the contents will make them change their minds.

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.

Never forget: 9/11’s legacy lives through us

Next Thursday will be the 24th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks. Remembrance ceremonies will take place across Long Island. They serve as more than solemn commemorations — they are living reminders of the strength and resilience that define us as New Yorkers, and as Long Islanders.

Nearly 3,000 lives were lost on that day in 2001, and among them were hundreds of men and women who called Long Island home. Nearly every area community lost someone: a parent who kissed her children goodbye at dawn before catching a train to Manhattan, a firefighter who answered the alarm, a neighbor who never made it home from his office in one of the twin towers.

Names etched in memorials — usually near a piece of steel from the towers — are not simply markers of history. They are reminders that the victims were our neighbors, classmates, teammates and friends. And attending remembrance ceremonies is not mere ritual. It is an act of collective will — a promise that those lives will never be reduced to a statistic. When communities gather at candlelight vigils, at town memorials and at firehouses, they reaffirm the values that carried us through the aftermath: sacrifice, unity and perse-

letters

Young Professionals Network collects school supplies

To the Editor:

verance.

The shared experience of loss binds us, within and across different communities. And each ceremony, whether on a village green or in a community park, serves as a bridge between past and present — between those who remember that day vividly and those who were not yet born.

It is vital that younger generations come to understand why we gather. Students returning to school this year were not alive on Sept. 11, 2001. For them, the images of collapsing towers are history lessons, not lived memory. Yet the lessons of that day — the bravery of first responders, the resilience of families, the unity of strangers who became helpers — are timeless. Attending these ceremonies ensures that young people see remembrance as a civic responsibility.

For the firefighters of Nassau County who still gather in uniform, and for the police officers, EMTs and volunteers who rushed to the site of the attacks from Long Island, the ceremonies are also about recognizing the continuing toll in the decades since: More than 4,350 additional people have died after suffering long-term health problems, such as cancers and respiratory illnesses, linked to the toxic environment at the World Trade Center site. That number grows

United Way of Long Island’s Young Professionals Network hosted its Summer Social at Blue Point Brewery on Aug. 7, gathering more than 200 neighbors for an evening of networking, entertainment and purpose.

Thanks to the generosity of attendees, the event raised over $20,000 and collected several boxes of school supplies for United Way’s Stuff-A-Bus initiative, which delivers backpacks and essentials to elementary students across Long Island.

Now in its 17th year, Stuff-A-Bus helps ensure that children from underserved communities step into classroom confident and ready to learn. Funds from the Summer Social will be used to purchase supplies for the coming school year — investments that make an immediate, tangible difference.

“The donations we’ve received through the StuffA-Bus initiative have made a profound impact on our school community,” Hannah McCarthy, assistant principal at Laurel Park Elementary School, in Brentwood, said. “Each year, our teachers share supply lists with families, but we know that many students arrive with only a few items, or sometimes none at all. Thanks to these donations, our staff can confidently ensure that every child has the tools they need to succeed from day one.”

McCarthy recalled a student living in a shelter

every year, and we cannot forget the need to provide health care and other resources to those heroes and their families, too.

When we gather to pay tribute, we do more than keep memory alive — we look to the future. “Never Forget” isn’t just a slogan or a rallying cry. It implores us to take seriously the responsibility of building stronger, more compassionate communities by bonding with our neighbors, supporting local volunteers, and ensuring that the ideals of service and unity overcome fear and division.

Long Islanders have always known what it means to come together in times of crisis. The outpouring of support after Sept. 11 — food drives, blood donations, and neighbors taking care of one another’s children — showed us our best selves. At our many memorials, we honor not only those we lost, but also the spirit of community that helped carry us forward.

Next Thursday, let’s recommit ourselves to remembrance. Attendance isn’t just symbolic. It is a living act of devotion to the people we lost, the families who still grieve, and the generations who must carry the hard lessons of a dark day forward.

Long Island’s promise is simple, but profound: We will never forget.

who arrived carrying supplies in her arms after losing her backpack — which her family couldn’t replace. Thanks to Stuff-A-Bus, the school provided a brand new backpack in the child’s favorite color. That small act, made possible by community support, is the kind of dignity and hope this initiative delivers every day.

This year’s Summer Social succeeded through the dedication of event cochairs Justin Merk, of FourLeaf Federal Credit Union; Lauren Grasso, of Ruskin Moscou Faltischek P.C.; Brendan Bateman, of Flushing Bank; the Young Professionals Network committee, and generous sponsors. Attendees enjoyed craft brews, live entertainment

opinions

When drawing lines, two wrongs don’t make a map

every 10 years, the U.S. Census is taken, and states redraw their congressional and legislative districts. In theory, this process is supposed to ensure fair representation as populations shift. In practice, it often becomes an exercise in gerrymandering — manipulating maps so politicians choose their voters rather than ensuring that voters choose their representatives.

New Yorkers know this history all too well. For decades, Albany insiders from both parties have used redistricting to entrench power. Districts were often bizarrely shaped, stitched together more to preserve political advantage than to accurately reflect the communities living in them. Voters recognized the abuse, and in 2014 they overwhelmingly passed a constitutional amendment creating the Independent Redistricting Commission, a bipartisan body designed to ensure a fair and transparent process for redrawing legislative and congressional districts. For the first time, both majority and minority parties had equal seats at the table.

Just seven years later, in 2021, voters were asked to weaken those safeguards with a constitutional amendment that would have made it easier to gerrymander districts. New Yorkers rejected it, and they were right to. In 2022, Democratic lawmakers advanced maps that were so blatantly partisan that one congressional district stretched from Suffolk County all the way up to Westchester. That sprawling 3rd District was engineered purely for political gain.

Now Gov. Kathy Hochul is forcefully talking about “war” on the IRC, with the intent of dismantling the system New Yorkers voted for. She points to what is happening in Texas, as if bad behavior elsewhere justifies bad behavior here. But as we know, New York has already walked this road long before Texas, California, Ohio and Missouri catapulted the issue onto the trending pages. When the courts struck down Albany’s unconstitutional maps in the last redistricting cycle, it was the IRC’s bipartisan plan that offered a fairer alternative. Instead of respecting that process, Democratic leaders ignored it and rammed through their own version.

ew Yorkers must defend the Independent Redistricting Commission.

out. Elections become less competitive. Politicians become less accountable. Voters stop believing that their voices matter. In Connecticut, for example, more than 40 percent of voters supported a Republican for president, yet the state has zero Republican representatives in Congress. Illinois is another example, where partisan maps have locked in incumbents and undermined meaningful representation. That is the future New York risks if we abandon the safeguards currently in place.

Gerrymandering breaks up neighborhoods, discourages civic engagement and ultimately deepens political divides. When voters feel powerless, participation drops and local concerns fall by the wayside. New York already leads the nation in population loss because of high taxes, a crushing cost of living and an adversarial business climate. If maps are carved up to protect politicians instead of communities, even more families will decide they’ve had enough and leave.

stand, but one our governor is determined to disregard. She presents her actions as well-intentioned, as if bending the rules is somehow for the public good. She hopes the electorate will somehow forget her previous attempts to undermine and ignore the independent process put in place. Accepting gerrymandering here because it happens elsewhere surrenders the principles that protect our democracy.

That’s not what New Yorkers voted for. They voted for the Independent Redistricting Commission in 2014. They rejected efforts to weaken it in 2021. And they deserve leaders who will defend it, not wage war against it. For Democratic leadership to now use Texas as a cover story while undermining the system New Yorkers demanded is the height of hypocrisy.

The IRC is a critical defense, but it is not foolproof. We should seek to strengthen it, not weaken it, as my Democratic colleagues seem hell-bent on doing. I reject the notion that undermining democratic processes is somehow a means to protect democracy. If we sit silent, this very rhetoric justifying gerrymandering will gain traction, and efforts to manipulate power will take hold here.

Across the country, we’ve seen what happens when gerrymandering wins

Letters

and raffles, and made connections with young professionals committed to making a difference.

Thank you, Long Island, for showing up for our students.

Democracy only works if power flows upward from the people to their elected officials, not the other way around. Two wrongs don’t make a right, a principle even children under-

tourism generated $945 million in state and local taxes last year. Without that revenue, the average Long Island household would face nearly $1,000 more in annual taxes.

Ed Ra, of Franklin Square, represents the 19th Assembly District and is the ranking Republican member of the Assembly Ways & Means Committee.

Island

THERESA REGNANTE President and CEO, United Way of Long

Long Island is breaking tourism records

To the Editor:

Long Island has long been known for its beaches, wineries and charming downtowns, but new data confirms what residents and visitors alike already know: Our region is thriving as a premier travel destination. For the third consecutive year, tourism on Long Island has broken records, with travelers spending $7.9 billion in 2024 — an impressive 3.8 percent increase over 2023.

This surge in tourism is more than a point of pride; it is a vital driver of our local economy. According to the recently released state Tourism Economics report, visitor spending supported 78,418 jobs in 2024, up from 76,227 in 2023.

From restaurant servers and hotel staff to retail clerks and tour operators, these are real, local jobs that sustain families and strengthen our communities. In addition,

The benefits ripple across the economy. Food and beverage spending alone accounted for 36 percent of all tourism dollars, while lodging comprised another 21 percent. Retail and service stations saw $1.2 billion in visitor spending. Suffolk County, in particular led the way, experiencing a 7 percent increase in tourism spending, while Nassau County’s numbers held steady, with only a slight decline. Overall, Suffolk now makes up nearly 60 percent of Long Island’s tourism tax base.

This remarkable growth did not happen by chance. It is the result of tireless efforts by Discover Long Island, whose leadership and innovative marketing strategies continue to attract visitors year-round. Looking ahead, the region is well positioned to keep building momentum, with major international events like this year’s Ryder Cup and next year’s U.S. Open drawing global attention.

Tourism is more than visitors coming and going — it is an investment in our quality of life, our small businesses and our future. Long Islanders should take pride in this achievement and continue supporting efforts that keep our region shining on the national stage.

MITCH PALLY, INTERIM PRESIDENT/CEO SHARON WYMAN, COO Discover Long Island

Help Us Improve Cardiac Care on The South Shore

THE LANNIN EISENHOWER PARK | SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2025, 6:30 PM | DINNER & DANCING

Join us to celebrate the work of Mount Sinai South Nassau and support the expansion and advancement of Mount Sinai South Nassau’s cardiac services on the South Shore.

Enjoy a delightful culinary experience with dinner, a live 10-piece band, and dancing.

Your contributions—no matter the amount—will have a meaningful impact in helping us reach our overall goal of “Bringing Heart Home.”