ROCKVILLE CENTRE
Crystal Dunn brings home her first Olympic gold medal
By DANIEl oFFNER doffner@liherald.com
Rockville Centre native Crystal Dunn took home her first Olympic gold medal in Paris on Saturday, following the United States Women’s National Soccer Team’s thrilling 1-0 victory against Brazil.
“You think about all the sacrifices you made,” Dunn said in an interview with The New York Times following their triumphant gold medal winning performance. “Yeah, this game is hard but it’s not just this game. It’s everything you went through. It’s the whole tournament, the buildup.”
She previously won the bronze medal at the
2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, which due to the pandemic did not take place until August 2021 and was the only American soccer player to start in all six matches.
Dunn, now 32, might be considered as one of the national team’s veteran players, however, she continues to be a vital asset as a critical playmaker and one of the lead defenders in the world.
Team USA dominated the competition in Paris, going undefeated through all three group matches to advance to the elimination round of the tournament.
Things quickly intensified during the quarterfinals against Japan. Tied 0-0 after the full 90 min-
What’s
ahead in Rockville Centre
Rockville Centre is unique among communities in Nassau County, with a history that dates back nearly 150 years.
The Rockville Centre Herald is your community news source, and we take that mission very seriously. We’ve seen firsthand how neighbors come together to support one another and their village.
This week’s Herald is being mailed to every home, and includes a copy of our popular annual magazine, Living In Rockville Centre.
It’s filled with great information you can use throughout the year. And it features the many historic and hidden gems that make our village such a great community in which to live, work and play.
We hope a look at this week’s paper will convince you that you should be reading. Each week in these pages — and on our website — we cover the big issues in the village, and the local news that you can’t find anywhere else. And, of course, check out our in-depth feature stories about your friends, neighbors and local students and athletes who are making a positive impact on the community, and who give Rockville Centre its unique character.
If you’re already a Herald subscriber, thank you for your support. We hope you are pleased with our coverage. If you’re new to the Rockville Centre Herald, then you must know that our mission is to cover all the news of your neighborhood — from the schools to local sports. From houses of worship to the work of philanthropic organizations.
If you’re not currently receiving the Herald by mail each week, please help keep quality local journalism alive in your community by signing up for a subscription online, at LIHerald.com/ subscribe, or call (516) 569-4000, ext. 7. Also, please consider supporting the Herald with a small donation, at LIHerald.com/ donate. It can be a one-time or monthly contribution to help us continue to ensure that nothing but the best in hyperlocal community journalism comes straight to you.
Enjoy the paper, and thanks for reading! And feel free to reach out with suggestions. You can contact me at doffner@ liherald.com.
Tim Baker/Herald
Lindsay Von Arx, an incoming sixth grade student, strikes the ball during the Lady Cyclones Olympic soccer clinic on Aug. 12. Story, more photos Page 3.
Playing on the Porch returns in September
Rockville Centre celebrates five years of the community-wide music festival
By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com
The fifth annual Playing on the Porch festival in Rockville Centre is gearing up to be another unforgettable community event, building on the success of last year’s edition. Set to return on Saturday, Sept. 7, the festival is once again transforming the quiet, tree-lined streets of Rockville Centre into a lively, open-air concert venue.
The concept behind Playing on the Porch originated in Ithaca, New York, and was first brought to Long Island by festival founder Iyna Caruso, where it has quickly become a beloved tradition, celebrating local talent and the strong sense of community that defines the Village of Rockville Centre.
Last year’s event saw more than 30 musical acts performing on the porches, lawns, and driveways of homes throughout the village, with a diverse lineup that drew residents out in droves.
Caruso, who has been the driving force behind the event since its inception, said that because of the way Rockville Centre is structured, the community is architecturally perfect for hosting this kind of event. Its many homes, driveways, porches and lavish front lawns make it an excellent way to get neighbors to come together and enjoy
The 2024 Playing on the Porch Music Festival will take place on Saturday, Sept. 7 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
music.
This year’s festival promises to be just as vibrant, with many more bands and solo artists slated to perform. The lineup will offer something for every musical taste, from jazz and classical music to classic rock and pop.
Playing on the Porch is a unique, roving concert series that encourages
attendees to explore the neighborhood as they walk, bike or drive from one performance to the next. Residents and visitors alike can experience a wide range of musical styles in this informal and more intimate setting. The festival is designed to be accessible to everyone, with performances taking place outdoors where anyone can stop by to listen.
Sponsored by the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce, with additional support from local businesses, the event has become a staple of the community calendar. The Chamber organizes “porch patrons,” who sponsor the different home venues, ensuring that the festival remains a free event for all to enjoy. However, attendees are encouraged to support the event through the “virtual tip jar” available on the Chamber’s website, with all proceeds going to the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce’s South Side High School Scholarship program.
As the festival’s popularity continues to grow, attracting other communities to take part in the fun, the Chamber remains committed to keeping things a truly community centric event.
Thanks to Caruso’s vision and the community’s ongoing support, Playing on the Porch is poised to continue to grow even bigger in the years to come, bringing music, joy and togetherness to the Village of Rockville Centre year after year.
For those looking to get involved or simply enjoy a day of music, the fifth annual Playing on the Porch festival is not to be missed. Be sure to follow the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce at RockvilleCentreChamberOfCommerce.com for updates and more information on becoming a porch patron.
Coming S eptember 9 from 3-6pm Rain date: S eptember 10
Multiple Stages. D ozen of Bands. S cores of Musicians. Rockville Centre's celebrated music festival returns to porches, front lawns and driveways of homes all around the village. Mark your calendar for this free, family-friendly event, sponsored by the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce. Funds raised through donations will suppor t the Chamber's S outh High S chool S cholarship Progr
Multiple Stages. Dozen of Bands. Scores of Musicians. Rockville Centre’s celebrated music festival returns to porches, front lawns and driveways of homes all around the village. Mark your calendar for this free, family-friendly event, sponsored by the Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce. Funds raised through donations will support the Chamber’s South High School Scholarship Program. For more information, visit RVCChamber.com For more information, scan here: A Celebration of music and community Coming September 7 from 3-6pm
For more information, visit RVCChamber.com
This is the ideal moment to make a move! With inventory at a low, there are fewer homes available on the market, putting your home in high demand. Get in touch with me today to explore how selling now could be the right move.
Tim Baker/Herald
Lady Cyclones host Olympic soccer clinic
Girls’ varsity soccer team inspires youth athletes to reach for the stars
By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com
The United States Women’s National Team continue to inspire and motivate young girls everywhere, who are hoping that one day they will get to compete in the Olympics. To help inspire youth soccer players to reach for their potential, the South Side High School girls’ varsity soccer team hosted an Olympics-themed clinic on Aug. 12.
“We want to get girls to know about our team, to come to our games, while getting shirts and getting some spirit building,” Sarah Schaefer, an incoming senior at South Side and one of the three co-captains of the Lady Cyclones, said. “I like seeing that the girls are so happy and seeing what our team is all about.”
Nearly 75 players from third- to eighth-grade were split up into seven of the Olympic teams that competed this year. The students in second- to fourthgrade represented teams from Germany, Canada and Australia, while the fifth- to eight-grade students represented teams from Brazil, France, Spain and Japan.
During the clinic, young athletes participated in a series of competitions and drills, which included dribbling, a penalty shootout, and a round-robin style tournament.
Sienna Connolly, one of the team’s cocaptains, said that she remembers participating in similar events, organized by the high school seniors at the time, when she was younger and how it made her feel invigorated to follow in their footsteps.
Her fellow co-captain, Charlotte Rathjen, added that one thing they hope that the younger girls will take away from the experience is that while it takes a lot of hard work and determination, its important to still have fun in the process.
The theme of this year’s clinic was inspired by Crystal Dunn, a former girls’ varsity soccer player at South Side High School turned international superstar, who, over the weekend, won her first Olympic gold medal with the U.S. Women’s National Team. Although it has been over a decade since Dunn led the Lady Cyclones to three state championships, she continues to inspire others in her own hometown and all across the world.
“I think that her presence has always been felt here,” Coach Judi Croutier said. “Four years ago, she sent the girls a video when we went up to states. She still has the connection here at South Side, but I think that for the town it’s such a great thing for everybody to grab onto.”
Croutier said that the South Side seniors and co-captains on the team came up with the idea and led the planning and execution of both the Olympic clinic and the one held last year, in celebration of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
“They thought it kind of went hand in hand with the World Cup,” she said.
“And then it just kind of followed suit this year because Crystal made the Olympic team and they just won.”
Team USA won its fifth gold medal in women’s soccer on Aug. 10, following its thrilling 1-0 victory against Brazil. The event was watched by millions all over the world, and will continue to inspire many youths to chase their international soccer dreams.
Tim Baker/Herald photos
Rockville Centre Deputy Mayor Kathy Baxley and Village Trustee Katie Conlon join the participants of this year’s Lady Cyclones soccer clinic.
Lady Cyclones co-captains Charlotte Rathjen, left, Sienna Connolly and Sarah Schaefer were instrumental in organizing the Olympic soccer clinic.
Abby Tucker, who will be headed into fifth grade in September, hones her dribbling skills during the Lady Cyclones’ Olympic soccer clinic on Aug. 12.
Lily Sciortino, who will be headed into the third grade in September, runs soccer drills during the clinic.
Thomas
Thomas
Thomas A. Glynn & Son Inc. Funeral Home
Protecting Your Future
“Protecting Your Future” has been Ettinger Law Firm’s slogan since we began in 1991. These words have deep meaning to us and our clients. Following are the eight ways an Ettinger Elder Law Estate Plan protects your future:
1. Makes sure your assets go to whom you want, when you want and the way you want. This can be all at once, at stated ages, managed by someone more responsible, leaving someone out and preventing them from challenging, protecting heirs from themselves, etc.
2. Takes a social approach to estate planning by fleshing out potential sources of conflict ahead of time and taking steps to prevent discord and preserve family harmony.
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Probate • Medicaid FREE CONSULTATION: 516-327-8880 x117 or email info@trustlaw.com 100 Merrick Rd., Rockville Centre • 3000 Marcus Ave., Lake Success Other offices in Huntington
Melville
Islandia
Crime watCh
arrest
Rockville Centre Police arrested Sandy Javier Valladares Chavez, a 39-year-old undomiciled man, on Aug. 8. Chavez was charged with petit larceny for theft from a motor vehicle, following an investigation along Wright Road. He was released from police custody at 10:35 a.m. with an appearance ticket returnable to Nassau County First District Court, as required by New York State law. At 11:20 a.m., a resident of North Forest Avenue reported that someone was inside his girlfriend’s vehicle and stole her pocketbook. Evidence found at the scene included a large envelope with the undomiciled man’s property he was released from police custody with, along with the appearance ticket that was issued upon release from police custody for the aforementioned crime.
Rockville Centre police arrested Jeremy Ramirez, 28, of Hempstead Avenue in Rockville Centre, on Aug. 10. He has been charged with criminal obstruction of breathing and assault following an investigation at his residence.
Leaving the sCene of an aCCident
A motorist reported on Aug. 7 that her vehicle was struck by another vehicle, which fled the scene, while she was parked on Sunrise Highway.
A motorist reported on Aug. 11 that her vehicle was struck by another vehicle, which fled the scene, while she was parked on South Park Avenue.
CriminaL misChief
A resident of North Long Beach Road reported on Aug. 10 that someone damaged his vehicle while parked in the driveway of his residence.
LarCeny
A resident of Grand Avenue reported on Aug. 6 that someone stole his bicycle from the garage of his apartment building.
A resident of Lenox Road reported on Aug. 9 that someone stole his bicycle from outside of his building.
ProPerty damage
A resident of Terrell Avenue reported on Aug. 10 that a tree limb fell on his vehicle while it was parked on the roadway.
UnUsUaL inCident
A resident of North Centre Avenue reported on Aug. 10 that she was the victim of a phone scam, in which she revealed personally identifying and banking information.
BUrgLary
A resident of Atkinson Road in Rockville Centre reported on Aug. 6, someone stole a bicycle from his garage. A short time later, the owner observed someone riding the bicycle on a nearby street, and when challenged by the owner, the subject ran from the location without the bicycle.
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Morning kickoffs for Nassau football
By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
Are you ready for some football?
Next Monday, all 53 Nassau County public high school football programs can begin preparations for the upcoming season, scheduled to open Friday, Sept. 6 with six games leading up to the first full slate the following week.
Aside from eight-time defending Nassau Conference II champion Garden City moving to Conference III, perhaps the biggest news during the offseason was the decision to add an 11 a.m. kickoff slot to Conferences II and IV for the 2024 campaign, and potentially Conferences I and III next year, due to a shortage of officials.
“At this time we don’t have enough officiating crews to cover so many games at the same time,” said Section VIII football coordinator Matt McLees. “We’re at about 16-17 crews. Moving some games to 11 a.m. and others to 3 p.m. allows us to double up certain crews on Saturdays.”
One team largely affected by the earlier start time is Sewanhaka. Not only is head coach George Kasimatis’ squad debuting the school’s new nickname, the Ravens, half of its games will begin in the morning. Fortunately, Kasimatis noted, three of the four 11 a.m. kickoffs are at home. “We travel to Roosevelt in Week 2 and it’ll be interesting,” he said.
Massapequa (Conference I), Garden City (II), South Side (III) and Seaford (IV) won county titles last season, however the landscape has changed with Trojans moving to Conference III. Carey, the new top seed in II, seeks its first county title since going back-to-back in 2013-14 and opens at home versus Glen Cove Sept. 14.
Garden City’s first taste of Conference III football is Sept. 6 at Bethpage. Seaford, which must fend off conference newcomers Wantagh and Plainedge, opens at home Sept. 13 against Island Trees.
Massapequa, which last season was awarded the Rutgers Cup, presented annually to the most outstanding team in Nassau, opens at Oceanside Sept. 6 in game originally scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 10.
Teams choosing to play a full game scrimmage can do so once 10 practices are completed, McLees said, making Aug. 30 the first potential date. Teams can hold joint practices as soon as Aug. 24 and are permitted to play 7 on 7 and also run 10 plays (11 on 11) in full gear. “It’s not a scrimmage by definition but teams can accomplish a lot with the joint practice,” he added.
Nine teams switch conferences
Along with Garden City, eight other teams have switched conferences for the
10 games to watch
Sept. 6: Massapequa at Oceanside
Sept. 14: Sewanhaka at Baldwin
Sept 20: Elmont at South Side
Sept. 21: Massapequa at Uniondale
Sept. 28: Calhoun at Mepham
Oct. 5: Oceanside at Freeport
Oct. 10: MacArthur at Carey
Oct. 10: Plainedge at Wantagh
Oct. 10: South Side at Garden City
Oct. 25: Wantagh at Seaford
upcoming season based on enrollment figures: Baldwin, Elmont, Manhasset, Herricks, Wantagh, Plainedge, Roosevelt and Glen Cove. Baldwin returns to Conference II where it spent the 2022 campaign and is seeded No. 10 this season. The Bruins, under new head coach Mike Robinson, open at home on their new turf field Sept. 14 against Sewanhaka. Elmont is the No. 3 seed in Conference III, whilst Manhasset is No. 7. Herricks is seeded eighth in Conference I. Longtime Conference III powers Wantagh and Plainedge are in Conference IV and will meet face to face Oct. 10 at Wantagh. Roosevelt, not long ago a member of IV, bounced to II and opens at New Hyde Park.
Thursday games Oct. 10
The sixth week of the season (fifth for many Conference III teams) will be played on Thursday, Oct. 10 due to Yom Kippur. Games will kick off as early as 2:15 p.m. (Elmont at Sewanhaka) and as late as 6 p.m.
Local coaching changes
Baldwin, East Meadow, Freeport, Mepham, Seaford all boast new sideline bosses.
Robinson is a Baldwin graduate who spent the past two seasons coaching the Bruins’ JV team after six years as a varsity assistant. Keith Lizzi takes over from Vin Mascia at East Meadow, the No. 6 seed in Conference I. Longtime Freeport assistant Jimmy Jones succeeds the legendary Russ Cellan at Freeport. The seventh-ranked Red Devils open at Massapequa. Tom Mazeika is the new head coach at Mepham, the No. 5 seed in Conference II, opens at home versus MacArthur. Seaford and new head coach Mike McHugh kick off defense of the Conference IV title at home against Island Trees.
Chase Bier and Oceanside open the season at home on Sept. 6 vs. Massapequa.
Michelle Ebel/Herald photos
Jake Classie, right, and Mepham will be playing for a new head coach this fall as Tom Mazeika takes over the helm of the Pirates.
• ExperiEnce the Joy of Dance techniquEs in a non competitive atmosphere
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USA wins gold for the first time in 12 years
utes of regulation time, Dunn made a long pass downfield to forward Trinity Rodman for a goal, to win 1-0 in extra time and advance to the semifinals against Germany.
Sophia Smith, one of Dunn’s former teammates on the Portland Thorns FC, who scored a pair of goals against Germany during group play, went on to score the game-winner in another 1-0 nailbiter against the Germans to advance to the finals against Brazil.
The Parc du Princes stadium in Paris was brimming with excitement on Saturday, Aug. 10, as these two historic rivals walked onto the field for a shot at Olympic gold.
Showing determination from the start, Brazil had scoring opportunities. Only 16 minutes into the first half, it seemed like the team had the upper-hand, as Brazilian forward Ludmila da Silva sent one flying past goaltender Alyssa Naeher. But the excitement was short-lived as it was ruled offside.
Naeher would make several amazing stops to keep her team in contention as the Brazilian offense continued to drive the ball towards the net.
Scoreless at the half, things quickly shifted in Team USA’s favor as Mallory Swanson made a daring rush towards the net to give Team USA a 1-0 lead and win the team its first gold medal in 12 years.
“I always believe this team can do absolutely anything,” Dunn said in her interview with the Times. “If we are at our best, if we are clicking, if all things are firing on all cylinders, I truly believe this team can be unstoppable, but it’s not easy. It’s about showing up every day and really believing in the system and believing in the players.”
Before she would become a global soccer phenomenon, Dunn led the South Side High School Lady
Cyclones to three New York state championships in 2006, 2007 and 2009 — amassing an impressive 46 goals and 35 assists. She was also the team’s captain through all three seasons, during which she only lost two games.
One of the most notable moments of her high school career took place during the 2009 state championship, where she managed to net a hat trick within the first 20 minutes of the match.
Dunn went on to attend the University of North Carolina where she would lead the Tarheels to their 21st NCAA championship, before deciding to turn pro. She was selected first overall by the Washington Spirit during the 2014 National Women’s Soccer League draft. Over the course of her professional career, she has played for the Washington Spirit, the North Carolina Courage, the Portland Thorns, and NJ/NY Gotham FC.
Dunn made her first Olympic appearance at the 2016 games in Rio de Janeiro , where the United States Women’s National Soccer team placed fifth after being knocked out in the elimination round by Sweden.
In the years that followed, she continued to sharpen her skills to become a more versatile and strategic soccer player. Making the switch from midfield to defense, Dunn carved out an essential role for herself on the national team, and in 2019 helped lead the U.S. to its second consecutive FIFA Women’s World Cup victory.
In response to news of Team USA’s victory on Saturday, national and local leaders shared messages on social media to congratulate the team on its achievement.
President Joe Biden tweeted, “on top of the world once again — congratulations. You never backed down from a challenge, and together, you have redefined what’s possible.”
“Congratulations to the U.S. Women’s Soccer team on their gold victory at the Olympics,” U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, whose Congressional district includes Dunn’s hometown of Rockville Centre, said in a tweet. “Crystal Dunn has made her home and the world
Courtesy US Soccer/Getty Images
rockville Centre native Crystal dunn and the united States Women’s national Soccer team win gold at the 2024 olympic games in paris, france.
Naginder Singh proudly serves her village
Shares
her
journey from refugee to Rockville Centre
By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com
Naginder Singh embodies the American Dream, having spent over four decades in Rockville Centre, where she has become an integral part of the community.
She was born and raised in India, just a few years before the 1947 partition, which forced her family to flee Pakistan and resettle in New Delhi.
“We became refugees,” Singh explained. “We had to leave our house. We grew up without electricity and were forced to take quarters in Delhi.”
I am so fortunate to live here in this village. We have a wonderful community here in Rockville Centre
NAgINDER SINgh
Rockville Centre
resident
There, she earned a master’s degree and began her career as a history teacher, before getting married and giving birth to her first son. When her husband, Dr. Harbhajan Singh was offered a chance to pursue a career in medicine in the United States, the family moved to Massachusetts in 1968, and nine years later made their way to New York, where they made a home in Rockville Centre.
“Some of the people we met in Massachusetts we are still friends with to this day,” Singh said.
But adjusting to life in America was not easy, particularly for Naginder, who left behind family members, friends and a fulfilling career.
After spending five years in the country on an F2 Visa, she and her husband were able to apply for citizenship in 1979. Soon after she would give birth to her youngest of two boys.
Naginder struggled with feeling isolated at the time, and was at home raising two young children, while husband was working.
“I wanted to do something,” she said. “My husband spent so much time in the hospital.”
Her husband was well-respected and well-liked by everyone. She recalled that he was a very social person and was regarded with high esteem from patients, coworkers and staff.
“He was such a giving person,” she said. “As a spouse, I really admired him.”
Things eventually changed for Naginder, when she decided to embrace the opportunities in front of her. She returned to school to earn a second master’s degree in early childhood education and eventually became a caseworker with the Nassau County Department of Social Services, a role she held for 11 years.
Daniel Offner/Herald
Naginder Singh, 85, enjoys spending her time at the Sandel Senior Center in Rockville Centre. Since she moved to the village in 1977, she has been committed to serving numerous causes throughout Rockville Centre.
Naginder said that at three different times in her life, she became friends with women who helped shape her as a person and provided her the guidance and support that becomes essential when navigating life’s complexities.
Maggie Knowlton, Carole Lerman, and Ann Cerulli were more than friends — they were her anchors in a foreign land. Their advice and companionship shaped Naginder’s approach to life, encouraging her to be proactive in pursuing her goals and to immerse herself in the community.
She considered these three women as family. They were always there for her to lend a sympathetic ear. Naginder said that while Carole and Ann died ten years ago, their influence carries on through her. As for Maggie, nearly 55 years later, she still remains a dear friend.
Naginder’s contributions to Rockville Centre extend far beyond her professional work. She has been an active volunteer, dedicating her time to numerous causes — including helping local veterans, the disabled and children.
Her commitment to service has been a cornerstone of her life, inspired by both her own values and the example set by her late husband, who was a highly respected physician at Mount Sinai South Nassau hospital for more than 41 years.
The hospital honored his legacy on Feb. 17, 2017, before he passed away, renaming the library after him, which continues to have an impact on the local medical community to this day.
Her two sons played soccer in RVC and were both Eagle Scouts. Her eldest son, Dr. CJ Singh, would follow in his father’s footsteps, and has run a medical
with local leaders such as Mayor Eugene Murray and former Recreation Superintendent Tony Brunetta, affectionately known as Mr. B. These friendships have not only enriched her personal life but have also enabled her to contribute meaningfully to the community.
She has also been involved in various initiatives, including “Mr. B’s Playground,” a project named in memory of Brunetta, who died in 2018.
“Growing up in India, I learned from my mother who would knit things for people in our neighborhood,” Singh said. “I think my inspiration also comes from my husband. He was a person who cared beyond himself. I do too… As a spouse, I really admired him.”
Her story is one of resilience, gratitude, and a deep commitment to giving back. Today, Naginder remains an active member of the Rockville Centre community, particularly through her involvement with the Sandel Senior Center. There, she has forged new friendships that continue to enrich her life.
practice in Rockville Centre for the last 25 years. Her youngest son, Sarbjit, is currently a professor of sports management at Farmingdale State College. They are both married to accomplished women. One is an author and business school professor, and the other is a pediatrician and a leader in global health. Naginder said she also takes great pride in her two granddaughters who bring her immense joy.
Her life in Rockville Centre has also been marked by her strong relationships
In addition to her involvement at the Sandel Center, she is an active supporter of the Lion’s Club of Rockville Centre, the Mount Sinai South Nassau Veterans committee, SIBSPlace, the RVC Homemakers Club, Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, the Backyard Players & Friends and Molloy University.
Despite all of the challenges she has faced along her journey, Naginder Singh considers herself blessed to be living the American Dream in a village that she now calls home.
“I am so fortunate to live here in this village,” she said. “We have a wonderful community here in Rockville Centre.”
She will be receiving the Helen Wrenn Memorial Award from SIBSPlace at its annual fundraiser dinner and auction later this year.
Theresa Press/Herald
Naginder’s husband, Dr. Harbhajan Singh, left, admired the sign bearing his name outside Mount Sinai South Nassau hospital’s medical library during the unveiling in February 2017.
“I’m
saving about $1,800 a year in energy costs with LED lighting.”*
—Guy Brogna, All Music Inc, Plainview
Meet Guy. He’s a local small business owner, rock bassist, and fan of LEDs. It didn’t hurt that he got $5,900 in rebates to replace his store’s old lighting with energy-efficient fixtures.* He says his store and his guitars look great in the new LED glow. And, with the monthly energy cost savings, he couldn’t be happier.
psegliny.com/businessrebates
*Rebates and savings will differ with every energy efficiency project.
Campers partake in some summertime fun
The 70th annual Summer Playground program comes to a thrilling conclusion
Campers and counselors gathered to bid each other a fond farewell, on Aug. 9, marking the conclusion of the 70th annual Summer Playground program.
The program, which has become a cherished tradition in the community, once again provided a summer filled with joy, laughter, and lasting memories for the participants.
Throughout the summer, children from first- through seventh-grade engaged in a wide range of daily activities that catered to their diverse interests. The program was designed to be both fun and enriching, offering opportunities for creativity, teamwork, and physical activity.
Arts and crafts sessions allowed the campers to explore their talents by creating colorful projects that they could take home as keepsakes.
The sports activities were always a highlight, giving the kids a chance to burn off energy, develop new skills, and enjoy some friendly competition.
Contests and friendly competition added an extra layer of excitement, with everyone eager to participate and showcase their abilities.
The bonds formed between the campers and their counselors were evident as the summer came to a close.
Counselors, who played an essential role in guiding and mentoring the kids,
were more than just supervisors — they were friends and role models who helped make this year’s program special.
As they said their goodbyes, there was a mix of smiles and tears, with everyone
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already looking forward to next summer when the program will return for another season of fun and adventure.
–Daniel Offner
courtesy Village of Rockville Centre Campers with the Summer Playground program hosted an Olympic-themed color war at the Recreation Center, where they competed in a variety of different sporting events including basketball and tug-of-war.
prices are holding strong
Photos
Enjoying the summer at the MLK Center
This summer, the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center has been a hub of excitement and adventure for young participants. The center organized a diverse range of activities and trips that ensured every child had an unforgettable experience. The program aimed to fill the summer months with fun, learning, and new friendships, and it delivered on all fronts.
Children had the chance to engage in various thrilling activities, from riding horses to getting an up-close view of a giraffe. These experiences allowed the kids to explore and learn about different aspects of the world around them in a hands-on and interactive way. The trips across Long Island exposed them to new environments and adventures, broadening their horizons and sparking curiosity.
Back at the MLK Center, the fun didn’t stop. The chil-
dren participated in numerous craft projects, which not only allowed them to express their creativity but also to bond with their peers. These activities helped foster a sense of community and teamwork among the participants. The kids spent quality time making new friends, learning new skill, and creating lasting memories.
The summer program at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center has proven to be much more than just a way to pass the time during the school break. It has been an enriching experience that provided children with opportunities to grow, learn, and enjoy themselves in a supportive and nurturing environment. This summer was truly a time of joy and discovery for all who took part.
–Daniel Offner
• Body Work • Acupuncture
• Foot Reflexology
• ESWT
• PEMF
• Facials
• Infra-Red Therapy
• Red Light Therapy
• Negative Ion Therapy
• Detox
• Professional private rooms. No curtain dividers or half walls. • Free Hot Stones with all services.
• Fluent English, Spanish, Italian and Chinese spoken.
Campers at the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center enjoy the Giraffe Experience at White Post Farms.
Photos courtesy Anna Ludwig Campers also had the opportunity to go for a pony ride.
Village gets prepared to weather the storm
By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com
Rockville Centre is bracing for the worst this hurricane season. Despite having evaded the impact of tropical storm Debby, which made its way up the Atlantic coastline last week, many stress the importance of taking a proactive approach when faced with heavy rain, potential flooding and damaging winds.
“As we prepare for flood conditions, it is critical that New Yorkers monitor their local forecasts and take proper precautions,” New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a statement last week. “My administration will continue to monitor and deploy necessary resources to impacted areas across the state.”
Last summer, several communities along the south shore of Long Island were impacted by one of the heaviest September rainstorms in history, which resulted in knee-deep floods and dangerous driving conditions on several of the village’s busiest roadways including Long Beach Road, Hempstead Avenue, Lakeview Avenue and Peninsula Boulevard.
That is why this year, the village was not taking any chances.
“We are ready to go,” said Rockville Centre Mayor Francis Murray. “We have our crews out there clearing drains.”
Mayor Murray said that both the electric department and the fire department were on standby in case the weather
worsened. He said tree companies were also put on high alert to monitor any potential damage from fallen branches.
Murray, however, also noted that there a number of potential hot spots, particularly between Long Beach Road and Maple Avenue, and between Hempstead Avenue and Village Avenue, where flooding is more prone to occur.
“We do the best we can with the drains that are there,” he said, adding
that there is very little they can do if hit with large volumes of rainwater. “There is nothing you can do to prevent that from happening.”
The flooding that occurred last year caused damage in several locations, including the basement of the John A. Anderson Recreation Center and at The Backyard Players and Friends, a nonprofit focused on inclusivity and the special-needs community.
The Backyard Players had originally scheduled to host their second annual Oktoberfest fundraiser that day when they learned that the business on North Long Beach Road had flooded.
Ellen White, the co-director of the organization, said that in response to last year’s weather event, they are on high alert in case anything such as this were to take place again.
“Every time rain is predicted, we have to put the sandbags out,” White said. “It is part of our day-to-day.”
However, this hadn’t always been the case. Just before the storm last year, White said she was at the St. Agnes Parish Center setting everything up for the event, when she got the call advising everyone to shelter in place.
“We had no idea that our stores were being flooded,” White said. “There was nothing we could have done that would have helped stop that flood.”
When they finally had made it back, she was surprised to find several neighboring businesses and residents had come to help with the cleanup.
In the event of a hurricane, residents are advised to create an emergency plan, keep all important papers in one spot, bring in all outdoor furniture and anything not tied down to avoid debris and make sure your trees are trimmed and healthy. For alerts on emergencies signup for MY RVC, the village’s mobile app, or Swift 911.
Interested candidates are invited to submit the following:
Courtesy Backyard Players and Friends
Tommy Montemarano, far left, Michael Lucchesi, Lisa Umansky, Terence White, Christopher White, Ciaran Regan, Aiden Regan, Ellen White, Cristine Daly, Laurie Coghlan, Colin Regan, Don Regan, Maggie Regan, Teddy Coghlan and Josephine Coghlan worked together to help clean up the storefronts along Long Beach Road.
Performing Hospital for Maternity Care
Mothers looking for a hospital at which to give birth should consider the quality indicators used by U.S. News & World Report ® to determine institutions deemed High Performing for Maternity care.
Mount Sinai South Nassau is the only South Shore hospital to earn the rating of High Performing based on eight key measures:
• Reduced C-section delivery rates
• Low early elective delivery rates
• Low overall unexpected newborn complication rates
• Increased routine VBAC rates
• Increased exclusive human milk feeding rates
• Low episiotomy rates
• Routine birthing-friendly practices
• Transparency on racial/ethnic disparities
If you want the best birthing experience for you and for your baby, look no further than Mount Sinai South Nassau.
Learn more at southnassau.org/maternity, or call 877-SOUTH-NASSAU.
celebrates 2024 Radiography grads
Catholic Health’s Mercy Hospital congratulates the 2024 School of Radiography graduates. To date, the school has conferred nearly 700 degrees, thanks to the support of the John J. Magovern Memorial Fund. The School of Radiography was founded in 1961 by Dr. Magovern, an attending radiologist and director of radiology at Mercy Hospital for 31 years, and Sister Mary Constance with the Congregation of Infant Jesus. For more information visit CatholicHealthLI.org.
Courtesy Joe Lanzetta Sr.
Wastin’ away again in… Eisenhower Park
Parrotheads transformed Eisenhower Park into a seaside paradise on July 25, as Barometer Soup performed their hit Jimmy Buffett tribute show. Fans from all over Long Island came to attend the one-of-a-kind-show as a part of the Eisenhower Park summer entertainment series sponsored by NYU Langone at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre.
Barometer Soup is a Jimmy Buffett tribute band, that seeks to embody the music and lifestyle of Jimmy Buffett and his beloved fans. The band is composed of veteran musicians from Indianapolis, who have been traveling the country for three years, looking to keep Jimmy Buffett’s spirit alive.
Buffett, perhaps best known for songs like “Margaritaville,” “Come Monday” and “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” died last year at 76, following a battle with skin cancer. He was also known for his business ventures, including Jimmy Buffett’s Maragritaville restaurant chain, and ventures in hotels, casinos, liquor and retirement communities.
Barometer Soup had Parrotheads from all over Long Island flocking back to the heart of the county for a great night filled with a lively performance, entertaining vocalists, talented musicians, vibrant shirts and
smiles.
Eisenhower Park will continue hosting various entertainment events, including concerts, movie nights, and international nights throughout the remainder of the summer. In a flier shared with Nassau County residents, Bruce Blakeman, the county executive, said “From thrilling performances to family-friendly movie nights
under the stars, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
For more information on upcoming events, visit NassauCountyNY.gov/ parks or call Parks Administration at (516) 572-0200. For more on Barometer Soup, visit the band’s website, BarometerSoup.rocks.
–Brian Norman
Barometer Soup, a Jimmy Buffett tribute group, was the latest in a series of summer attractions at Eisenhower Park.
Tim Baker/Herald photos
Nora Staker, 4, is a young fan, who attended the concert with her dad, Keegan.
with a focus on:
School Year
Back to class with the right stuff
Keep that gear in good shape
Families are always looking to stretch their back-to-school shopping budgets. But saving money isn’t just about how much you spend on supplies; it’s also about making school supplies and equipment last as long as possible.
Here are some tips for protecting your students’ school tools to help stretch your budget — and their gear.
Talk with children about handling tech devices. Kids will be kids, and sometimes that means they’ll be tough on their stuff. Unfortunately, their school-mandated tech devices — such as calculators, tablets and laptops — can’t always take the beating. To reduce the risk of accidental breakage, talk to kids about proper handling and storage of their devices and the potential risks for breakage when drops, spills and hard impacts occur.
Lighten the backpack load Between books and laptops, students tend to pack a lot of heavy items in their backpacks during the course of a school year. As the load increases, backpack zippers may break, and seams may tear from the daily stress. Reduce the wear and tear by ensuring your kids don’t over-pack their bags.
Not only will this reduce strain on their backpacks, it will lighten the load on students’ backs as well.
Consider a protection plan. Research shows that some school essentials —such as backpacks and laptop batteries — break or stop functioning within the first 1-2 years of use. To help keep costs down, many retailers offer reputable protection plans, which can help repair or replace the equipment for free or a fraction of what you’d normally pay on your own.
Sharing isn’t always caring. Even if your child handles his calculator or laptop with care, his friends might not. Establish guidelines with your kids at the start of the school year about what items can be shared with others at school and which cannot.
For those things that can be shared, consider encouraging your child to establish ground rules when sharing with friends. Guidelines could include when the item should be returned, tasks for which the item will be used and an understanding that items will be handled with care.
Don’t forget about bikes. Kids who ride their bikes to school can be just as hard on their bikes as they are on their school supplies. A tune-up at the start of the school year can keep the bike running smoothly and help catch wear and tear, such as damaged spokes or worn tires and brake pads. Are you ready? A back-to-school checklist
Make sure your kids have what they need to succeed this year. Ensure you’ve covered all the back-to-school bases before the studying starts:
√ Ensure your child is up to date on all immunizations.
√ Schedule eye and physical exams, if needed.
√ Make sure emergency contact information is up to date.
√ Organize school supplies.
√ Review the dress code policy.
Navigating the school bus
By Sharon Naylor
School bus safety musts to teach your child
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an average of 24 school-age children are killed in school transportation accidents each year. Eleven of those children are on the school bus, and 13 are pedestrians. Even one child killed or injured in a school bus accident is too many. So it’s important to teach your children the safety rules of being in or around school buses.
Since it’s back-to-school time, make it a top priority to deliver a school bus safety lesson to children who will be riding the bus for the first time and to older children who have ridden the bus for several years. They, especially, need to be reminded of how important it is to practice bus safety, because older kids can get complacent about school bus risks.
Avoid danger in the ‘Danger Zone’
The loading and unloading area is called the “Danger Zone,” and it’s “the space on all sides of the bus where children are in the most danger of not being seen by the driver (10 feet in front of the bus where the driver may be too high to see a child, 10 feet on either side of the bus where a child may be in the driver’s blind spot, and the area behind the bus).
The “Danger Zone” is particularly dangerous for young children, who are more likely to be struck because they act impulsively, dash to get on and off the bus, assume other drivers will see them and stop, and don’t always stay within the driver’s sight. Older kids experience risk when they are distracted by their friends — who also might be unaware of other motorists or their positioning in the driver’s blind spots — and by their handheld gadgets.
So Google an image of a school bus “Danger Zone” that illustrates in danger-red the areas around the bus that they are to avoid. It’s considered a common rule of thumb for children to stay at least 10 feet away from all sides of the bus and to always cross the street in front of the bus while the bus is stopped, red lights flashing, driver watching.
But kids have to be taught or reminded to look carefully for other motorists who are not stopped for the bus and to look behind the bus for any irresponsible driver who might speed to pass the bus. And they should never cross the street behind the
bus. If friends are headed that way, your child is not to follow them. Role-play to give your child a script, such as, “Let’s cross up here where the driver can see us.” With practice, they’ll feel more confident in group dynamics.
Before the bus arrives
√ Ensure backpacks are packed securely so papers and other items donít scatter as the bus approaches.
√ Create a morning routine that puts kids at the bus stop five minutes before the scheduled pickup time. This helps avoid a last-minute rush, when safety lessons are easily forgotten, and ensures kids are safely in place for boarding.
√ Walk young children to the bus stop or encourage kids to walk in groups. There is safety in numbers; groups are easier for drivers to see.
√ If kids must cross a street, driveway or alley, remind them to stop and look both ways before crossing.
√ Verify the bus stop location offers good visibility for the bus driver; if changes are needed, talk with nearby homeowners or school district officials to implement changes.
√ Remind children that the bus stop is not a playground. Balls or other toys could roll into the street and horseplay can result in someone falling into the path of oncoming traffic.
√ Instruct kids to stay at least three steps away from the road and allow the bus to come to a complete stop before approaching it.
On the bus ride
√ When boarding the bus, items can get bumped and dropped. Caution children that before picking anything up, they should talk to the driver and follow instructions to safely retrieve their possessions.
√ Teach safe riding habits: stay seated with head, hands and feet inside at all times; keep bags and books out of the aisle and remain seated until the bus stops moving.
√ Instruct children to never throw things on the bus or out the windows and to never play with or block emergency exits.
Photo: Prepare for the return to the classroom with a back to school shopping strategy that makes sense for your family — and your wallet.
Photo: School buses are safe transportation if your kids know safety rules.
How was your day? Creating conversation with your kids
By DiAnne Crown
The easy flow of conversation and discovery between parents and their young children invariably seems to stop early in elementary school. Why? Preschoolers and kindergartners find it difficult to remember the details and summarize a day’s experiences.
Older children may want to turn off school and think about something else, be too tired to talk or be upset about something they think will upset you. And youths are not only looking for the boundaries between what’s theirs and what’s yours; they may be even more concerned that you’ll judge, overreact or take over their concern or need. Here’s what we did to get the conversation started — and keep it going.
Start When They’re Babies
Build trust when your children are infants. When they cry, pick them up. When they babble, answer them. When they reach for you, reach back with a loving touch. When they want to crawl into bed with you, share special rocking time. Go outside and watch an excavator for a few minutes. Read a favorite story. Or play chase. Say yes. You will build lifelong love and trust with your children.
Build A Routine
For those fortunate enough to have it, an opportune talk time is immediately after school at pickup, when the events of the day are freshest. Start as early as preschool or kindergarten. Let your children share during the drive home. You’ll both benefit. You’ll hear news of the day, and your young ones will have regular opportunities to practice sequencing and organizing information into a short report. Active, respectful listening will develop your children’s willingness to share and include details.
Start With What You Know
For an easier time learning about the social aspect of your children’s day at school, get to know their friends through play dates. Then you can ask about specific friends and situations. “Did you and Lucy play together at recess today?” could branch into their successes or problems on the playground that day, any new students in class and so on. Pay attention to teacher websites, homework, backpack items, sporting events and
what other parents are talking about at school. And build on prior days’ conversations, perhaps asking, “What’s new with your group mythology project?” Starting with specific known topics is more productive than the open-ended “How was your day?”
Take An Active Role
In Getting Ready For School
Make lunch together, and talk about the day ahead. Keep a communication board on the refrigerator or by the back door, and run through the checklist of homework, permission slips, gym clothes and game schedules together. This will build your children’s sense of routine and readiness and provide good topics for table talk later.
Play Together
Do what your children like, whether it’s a favorite video game, ball toss, board game or funny YouTube video. Fun experiences build memories, keep you connected, open the door for conversations on other topics and often become perennial favorites as your children grow up.
Give Your Full Attention
Listening and being present are impor tant elements of communication. In an arti cle by Claire Gagne on the Today’s Parent website, therapist and author Jennifer Kolari says: “When you’re really connected, your body is leaning in and your phone is down. You’ll find that if you do a really good job in those moments, they will come to you for the hard stuff.” If you ignore or brush off your children when they’re rattling on about the latest video game or a guest speaker who came into the classroom that day, Kolari says, you’re losing an opportunity to show you are a good listener.
Utilize Car Rides
Occasionally, talking side by side behind the windshield can be easier for teens than talking eye to eye. Listen to music; share stories of the day; and talk about any topics of interest or concern. Make sure these are twoway conversations, not one-way interrogations, says Gagne. This way, you’ll get much more value out of your daily commute.
e Rockville Centre Education Foundation’s 32nd Annual Fundraising Gala honoring Darren Raymar, Principal, Covert Elementary School & Brian Zuar, Director of the Arts, RVC School District for their service to the Foundation was a great success! We thank our sponsors for sharing in our vision and supporting us with their generosity. To date, the Foundation has raised nearly $1 million dollars. rough the contributions and e orts of our supporters, we continue to be able to raise funds to enrich the education of our Community’s greatest resource—our children!
We are extremely grateful for all your help making the 32nd Gala a memorable event.
All Fronts Insurance Services (Raymar Family)
BBS Architects, Landscape Architects & Engineers, PC
Bond, Schoeneck & King
Covert Elementary School PTA
Crown Ford
David Hume Kennerly Pulitzer Prize Winning Photographer
Donna and Matt Downing
Dr. Denise L. Emma, DDS
LI Herald
Lorrie and Dennis Brady
Madison eatre at Molloy University
Masters & Company Florist
Meri & Mark Masin
Peg McDonald Landscape Design
Rockville Centre Board of Education
Rockville Centre Schools PTAs
Rosemary Talkin/ eresa Brown Daniel Gale Realty
e Landtek Group, Inc.
Adelphi University
Bill Jackson - Hawkins Dela eld & Wood LLP
Brother Ken, Lil, O'Donnells & Catenas
Central O ce Administrators of RVC School District
Charles Schwab Corporation
Cross Fit Seize the Day Crossroads Auto Leasing
Debra Weiner, Stifel
Dee and Cee Cra Inc - General Contractors
Disruptive Spark Business Growth Leaders
Elena Citarrella
Energy Fitness of Rockville Centre
Gary, Kathleen, Carol Anne Zuar & Family
Hofstra University
Improv Ambassador - Byron Kennerly
Jean Harris, Michael, Harry & Anna Ludwig
Karen and Wayne Lipton
Mayda & Greg Kramer
Molloy University
New York Islanders
Mike and Melissa Sorvillo
Nancy & Stuart Richner
Ridge Abstract Corp.
Rush Properties Management and Rush Realty Corp
RVC Sponsors of the Arts
Six Flags Great Adventure/Wild Safari
Soggy Dollar Jost Van Dyke
Raymar Children's Fund
Rockville Centre Teachers Association
Rockville Links Club
St. John's University
Tara Hackett and Family
e Dion Family
e Glass House Museum
e Hendry Family
e Quilty Family
Total Wine & More
Voix de la Terre
e Anderson Agency Allstate Insurance
e Ditchik Family
e Flour Shoppe Cafe
e Village Framer
Tom Hanley - Fidelity Charitable Donor-Advised Fund
Valenti Pharmacy
A ver y special thank you to the South Side High School Jazz Band who entertained us that e vening and the student photographers who captured the e vening in pictures.
e Rockv ille Centre Education Foundation Board of Directors appreciates the continued support of our many Fr iends and Patrons. Please support them w ith your patronage.
Aperitif Bistro RVC
Associated Supermarket
Bigelow's
Blow Dye Salon
Chris Becconsall
Claritza Peguero
Dario's
Defusion Hair Salon
DSEID Balloons
Elements erapeutic Massage
Five Ocean Bar & Grill
Frasada Salon & Spa
Gabriela Guizzo
Gatsby on the Ocean
Golden Tiger Acupuncture
Grainne & Co.
H2O Nail & Spa
Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa
Haviland Kitchen & Cocktails
Laser Bounce Long Island
Long Island Children's Museum
Long Island Ducks
Lost Dog Art & Frame
Madison's Niche
Melissa Barrett Mur-Lee's Parmigianni
Pinnacle Golf Club
Polka Dot Pound Cake
Rosann and Mike Petrizzi
Sharon Batkin
Siam Emerald
South Side High School Wood Design
SST Custom Embroidery
T & V Automotive Concepts, Inc.
e Travers Family
Tilles Center for the Performing Arts
Wild Feast
All About Word Art
Applebee's Bar & Grill
Bagelry
Bark Box
Benihana
Blue Moon Restaurant
Ca e on Park
Camila's of Front Street
Captain Lawrence Brewing Company
Carvel - RVC
Chadwick's
Chat Noir
Cheesecake Factory
Chipotle
Christine Verveniotis
City Winery
CJ's Co ee Shop
Coquette
Costco
Curbside Mexican Grill
Dova Mardor
Edible Arrangements
EGP Oceanside
Farmer Joel's
Greektown
Greystone Delicatessen
Hue Art Studio
Juliet & Owen Passel
Kollner's Prime Meats, Inc.
Kookaburra Co ee Company
La Parma III
Mad for Chicken
Maple Lanes RVC
Matty's Toy Stop
Mesita Moe's Mexican Grill
Naples Street Food
New York Adventure Club
New York Giants
Noblesse Nail & Spa
P.F. Chang's
Panera
Pickleball Plus
Press 195
Prost Grill & Garden
QG Floral & Landscape | Flowers by Mike
Radiant Skin and Laser Center
Rockville Bagels
Rockville Camera
Rockville Centre Recreation Center
Roman Nails
ese pictures represent a sampling of grants the Foundation has awarded and the 32nd Annual Fundraising Gala.
Salon Blu
Salsa Mexicana
Salvatore Somma
Slider Joe's
South Shore Brewery
Sparrow Kitchen & Cocktails
Starbucks
Stew Leonard's
Sugarberry Bakery/Cafe
e Burger Spot
e Tap Room
Top Golf
Touch of Italy
Trader Joe's
Vulcano 081
Wendy's Doggie Day Spa
Gala Honorees Darren Raymar & Brian Zuar
Quick bites
Healthy and quick breakfasts for busy school mornings
Breakfast has long been referred to as the most important meal of the day. It’s especially important for kids to start the day off with some nourishment in their bellies before heading off to school. There’s ample evidence to show that the simple act of eating breakfast every day is a big part of maintaining a healthy weight and gives you brain power.
Studies have found that children who eat a healthy breakfast have higher energy levels and better learning abilities than similar students who do not eat breakfast. Harvard University researchers found that those who eat breakfast are significantly more attentive in the classroom and have fewer behavioral and emotional problems.
Of course, many of us find that time is not in abundance in the morning when we are getting ready for school or work. As a result, we grab a couple of bites or gulp down some coffee or maybe some hot cocoa for the kids before heading out or skip breakfast altogether.
Eating a nutritious breakfast is a great way for children to be on target to meet their daily needs for key nutrients, like calcium the all-important bone-building mineral. Children who don’t eat breakfast also are less likely to get all of the essential nutrients they need each day to thrive.
Shake up your family’s milk and cereal routine and think outside the [cereal]box: it’s easy for every family member to find
their favorite way to start the day. Try these ideas to boost school success.
Yogurt packs a punch: Individually packaged yogurts make a healthy and quick meal for anyone in the family. A good source of protein and calcium, yogurt is also filled with helpful bacteria that promote digestive health. And try creating parfaits with layers of vanilla yogurt, fruit and granola. Focus on fruit: Keep a container of fresh fruit salad in the refrigerator. A bowl of mixed fruit is refreshing and healthy.
The Rockville Centre Public Library is more than just a place to borrow books—it's a vibrant community hub where residents of all ages come together to learn, explore, and connect.
Explore our collection of books, eBooks, and audiobooks. Join us for a book club, exercise class, workshop or receive assistance with research or tech needs.
Ask a friendly librarian to discover a new favorite author or find a cozy corner to enjoy a good read.
Visit the Children’s Room for storytime, meet a friend for a playdate or make new friends.
Check out our Museum Passes and our Library of Things, a collection of items such as Rokus, hot spots, Kindles, American Girl dolls, a telescope and more!
Come visit the Library and see why it’s the heart of our community. There is something for everyone.
panini maker to create homemade breakfast tarts. Fill bread or pitas with fresh fruit or peanut butter and use the cooker to seal them shut.
Think grab-and-go
When time is of the essence and the morning seems to be overwhelming, it’s tempting to forgo breakfast despite our best intentions. Therapeutic dietitian Lena Beal, M.S., RD, LD, shares some of her favorite grab-and-go breakfast ideas:
√ Blend one cup of almond milk, half of banana, and bag of frozen blueberries or strawberries for a delicious smoothie.
√ Spread two brown rice cakes with natural peanut butter and add a side of Greek yogurt.
√ Scramble two eggs with low-fat mozzarella cheese. Add baby spinach and salsa and serve on two whole-wheat tortillas.
√ Grab a cup of plain low-fat yogurt and top with fresh raspberries and crunchy wholegrain cereal or granola.
√ Make a bowl of plain oatmeal and add cinnamon, walnut halves and raisins.
Satisfying smoothies: Smoothies made from fruit and yogurt are fast and can be stored in portable cups to take in the car on the way to school.
Excellent eggs: Whip up a fast egg sandwich. Saute egg whites in a frying pan and place between two slices of toasted whole wheat bread.
Muffin mania: Make a batch of low-fat, high-fiber muffins over the weekend. Grabbing a muffin and a is an easy breakfast. Beyond the bread: Use a sandwich or
√ Spread low-fat cream cheese on a wholegrain toasted bagel. Top with sliced strawberries.
√ Add lean ham and low-fat Swiss cheese to a toasted whole-grain English muffin.
√ If your taste buds just don’t crave breakfast foods, try a peanut butter and banana sandwich on whole-grain bread or even leftover rice mixed with low-fat yogurt, dried fruit and nuts, and sprinkled with cinnamon.
Photo: Start the day right and boost school success with breakfast that packs a punch.
Building Survey results are in! Here’s what we’ve done so far...
September is Library Card Sign-up Month. Sign-up for a card and receive a free gift sponsored by the RVC Library Friends. We can’t wait to see you!
For more information about our services and upcoming events, visit us at rvclibrary.org or follow us on social media.
FRESH PAINT
News brief
Hit the links at the Mayor’s Golf Classic
On Monday, September 30th, the Rockville Centre Community Fund will host its 37th Annual Mayor’s Golf Classic. The classic, and accompanying dinner is the primary fundraiser for the Rockville Centre Community Fund, a not-for-profit tax-exempt charity dedicated to helping residents of the Village of Rockville Centre who have emergency financial needs.
“Whatever the need, local families have been able to count on the Community Fund during the past 37 years,” Mayor Francis Murray said. “The generosity and support we receive each year truly exemplifies what a caring community we have here in Rockville Centre.”
This year’s classic will honor lifelong resident of Rockville Centre, Ed Asip. Ed has continuously demonstrated what it means to give back. In 2003, he joined the RVC Lions Club and served for three years as President. He currently manages the website and represents the Lions Club within the RVC Chamber of Commerce where he is a vital force in the successful collaboration of “Commerce and Service.”
In 2018, Ed was awarded the Lions Club highest honor, the Melvin Jones Fellowship by the Lions International Foundation. Earlier this year, he was elected President of the RVC Chamber of Commerce. He previously served as Treasurer for nine years while managing the website and several events. In 2023, the Chamber awarded Ed, the “RVC Businessperson of the Year” award.
While Ed has much to be proud of, he is most grateful for his wife, Sandi, his three children, Jim, Andrew, and Katie, daughter in-law, Dana, and especially being “Grandpa” to Brady and Scottie.
Tickets and sponsorships for the allday event, as well as journal ads are still available.
The donation for breakfast, lunch, cocktails and dinner, as well as a round of golf at the Rockville Links Country Club is $375. Dinner-only tickets are $125. For reservations or information about sponsorships and journal ads, please call Nancy Biaggi at (516) 678-9254 or email NBiaggi@RVCNY.US.
–Daniel Offner
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Grief support group suffers a great loss
By NICOLE FORMISANO nformisano@liherald.com
Circle of Hope has been meeting for years to support each other and work through the grief of losing a loved one. Now they face uncharted territory what do they do when their leader, herself, Angela Mendola, has died?
Mendola, 84, died on July 5 after a heart attack. The members of Circle of Hope, which was sponsored by Our Lady of Peace in Lynbrook until recently, knew something was wrong when she didn’t show up at their weekly Friday meeting on July 5 she never missed a meeting.
They contacted her daughter, Christine Mendola Grillo of Rockville Centre. They came to the house and waited outside. And they were there when Grillo found her.
“They were able to provide me comfort,” Grillo said. “I don’t know what it would have been like had I been alone.”
Mendola was the kind of person who did everything with warmth. When the Herald worked with her on a story last summer, she welcomed this nervous young reporter into the Circle of Hope with open arms. Over the course of the meeting, members talked honestly about the messy, complicated and unglamorous experience of grief. Mendola met it unflinchingly, head-on and with a candor that didn’t sacrifice kindness. It made grief less scary, somehow, to know that as big as it can be in one’s heart, it would never scare her off.
She was a role model to her daughters, Laura Jean Bonacore and Grillo. As an adult, she went back to school, at Molloy University, to finish her undergraduate degree, and earned a master’s from Fordham University at age 43. She was then able to pursue her call-
Courtesy
Angela Mendola, 84, died last month after a heart attack. She kept the Circle of Hope bereavement support group active, often encouraging them to come to shows, restaurants, movies or other fun outings.
ing, becoming a social worker. She eventually had seven grandchildren, and was about to be a greatgrandmother.
“She was constantly evolving,” Grillo said. “She never gave up.”
Mendola had been running bereavement support groups for the past seven years but they took on new meaning for her in 2020, when her husband of 61 years, Anthony Mendola, died of complications of Covid-19. The pair had met at a skating rink in 1958, when Angela was 18, and had been a team ever since. Anthony’s death was traumatic. He had no prior health problems, and his family felt that he had been suddenly ripped from them. Angela was still leading the Circle of Hope but without telling anyone there, she had become a grieving member, too.
“She was trying to evolve again,” Grillo said. “And I think in doing that, in bringing the bereavement group together, she was also healing her own grief.”
“It helped her just as much,” her daughter added. “I saw a whole change in her. I didn’t think I could learn any more about her, but it was amazing, over the last four years, to watch her just create a whole new life with these neighbors.”
The Circle of Hope was invaluable for everyone who came. Some lost parents. Some lost spouses. Some lost children. Perhaps the most important understanding that the group shares and Mendola emphasized is that there is no timeline on grief. It does not disappear. It changes from an open wound to a scar, and sometimes back again. And that, too, is OK.
But now the group is at a crossroads. Without Mendola, who is a certified social worker, leading them, Our Lady of Peace R.C. Church says it can no longer sponsor the group. And the Lynbrook library is reluctant to allow them to keep meeting without a sponsor.
In the meantime, the members are working through the grief of their collective loss. Any organizations that might be interested in sponsoring the group or providing a new meeting location, can reach out to the Circle of Hope by contacting nformisano@liherald.com.
Christine Grillo
News brief
Baldwin Realty joins Howard Hanna Coach
Howard Hanna Coach Realtors (HHCR) has announced that Baldwin Realty will be joining its brokerage. Founded in 1954 by Bill Walcot and currently owned by Marilyn Sandroni, Baldwin Realty a boutique firm based in Baldwin.
“We believe that this acquisition benefits HHCR by allowing us to work with an incredibly dedicated team of highly professional real estate associates who have a strong commitment to, and knowledge of Nassau County. We in return will provide the agents of Baldwin Realty the resources required to meet client expectations in the very competitive residential real estate market,” Vice President of Howard Hanna Coach Realtors, L.P. Finn, wrote in a news release. “Marilyn brings to our firm over 4 decades of real estate experience. Her broad base of relationships and passion for the real estate industry
make her an excellent fit for HHCR.”
Sandroni and six other sales associates will operate from HHCR’s branch office located at 314 Sunrise Highway, Rockville Centre.
“I look forward to an exciting new chapter and continuing the legacy of my company. I see great opportunities for our excellent sales team to expand professionally and enjoy the many benefits that Howard Hanna | Coach Realtors has to offer,” stated Marilyn. “This was the best move for us, our clients and customers, by far.”
The Hanna Family of Companies provides real estate, title, insurance, and mortgage services across 13 states.
Howard Hanna has nearly 500 offices and 15,000 sales associates and staff. For more information, visit CoachRealtors. com.
–Hernesto Galdamez
‘Unstoppable’ women gather in Bayville
By Melissa Berman
With the theme “(WE) are UNSTOPPABLE” running through the day, RichnerLIVE’s second annual Women’s Summit, at the Crescent Beach Club in Bayville, brought together thought leaders, innovators and barrier-breaking women for conversations.
Nearly 300 people attended to hear 27 speakers on various topics — women’s leadership, impact and inclusion, financial fitness, social media — as well as a number of panels. There were 24 vendor booths and multiple raffle prizes at the Aug. 6 event.
Amy Amato, executive director of RichnerLIVE, opened the keynote lunch session with a message that set the tone for the speakers.
“When we envisioned this year’s summit, we were inspired by the resilience, determination and unwavering spirit that women across Long Island exhibit every single day,” Amato said. “Whether in the boardroom, classroom, homes or communities, women are breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings, and proving time and time again that nothing can hold us back.”
The summit featured wellness activities in the morning before the sessions began — beach yoga, breathwork and reiki, color analysis and meditation.
Four-time Emmy award-winning reporter and anchor Antoinette Biordi, of News12, hosted the keynote lunch panel session.
“I really believe that conversations about women’s empowerment, leadership and mentorship deserve to be heard,” Biordi said. “Everyone here can do something to lift each other up, and for the next generation as well.”
Keynote speaker Carrie Kerpen, founder of the Whisper Group, an exit readiness advisory practice for womenowned businesses, discussed why speaking at the summit was important for her and women in business.
“I think that the pressure that we are under as women in the workplace is causing us to lose touch with what we really want, and we are losing the ability to hear our own intuition and connect with our own intuition,” Kerpen said.
The one area, according to Kerpen, in which women need to improve is getting the appropriate value for their business when it is sold or they leave.
“My hope is to help women business owners take their lifestyle businesses and turn them into life-changing assets to build generational wealth,” she said.
Another keynote speaker, Lindsay Kaplan, co-founder of CHIEF, described how failure is a part of one’s success path.
“We have a tendency as humans to blame failure on ourselves just as much as we often attribute success to ourselves, and timing, luck, and being in the right place at the right time,” Kaplan said. “We are constantly looking at those around us, and it creates this inferiority. We need to focus on our own growth and define happiness for our own terms.”
Stuart Richner, CEO of Richner Com-
munications, said he was impressed by the turnout, and the participants’ dedication to enhancing their business skills.
“Seeing nearly 300 accomplished, dynamic, professional women here is truly inspiring,” Richner said. “Your presence at this RichnerLIVE event demonstrates your commitment to empowering one another and making a positive impact on society.”
The event supported the Moxxie Mentoring Foundation with a portion of the net proceeds, furthering the Heralds’ and RichnerLIVE’s commitment to women’s empowerment. The principal sponsors of the event were T-Mobile for Business, AT&T, Cona Law, the Stefan’s Group, National Grid Ventures, and Nassau University Medical Center. Please visit www. richnerlive.com/2024-wesummit/to view all sponsors and photos.
Tim Baker/Herald photos
The guests at the second annual Women’s Summit during the luncheon.
The Be Worthy panel, from left, Yolanda Brook Carrington, Meg Ryan, Dr. Neva Alexander, Kamona Ayres, Subrina Oliver and moderator Terri Alessi-Miceli. Cocktail sponsor T-Mobile for Business.
Sharen Cox Phillips, far left, Stuart Richner and Magdalonie ParisCampbell.
Alexa Anderwkavich/Herald photos Magdalonie Paris-Campbell, far left, Seema Bhansali, Arianna Savoca, Tamara Morrison and Jennifer Mock Donohue.
Workshop host Melissa Negrin-Wiener and Julie Allegretti.
Keynote speaker Carrie Kerpen.
Tim Baker/Herald photos
The Looking Good Feeling Good workshop speakers, from left, moderator Mae Caime, Lori Anne De Iulio Casdia, Brenda Gonzalez, and Dr. Roxanne Carfora.
Christina Armentano, far left, Dr. Maria Conzatti, Aoifa O’Donnell, Tifphani White-King and Sharen Cox Phillips.
Keynote speaker Susan Gatti.
Antoinette Biordi, moderator of the Permission to Achieve luncheon panel.
Donna Stefans at her Financial Fitness workshop.
The crowd listened to the UNSTOPPABLE speakers.
LAKESIDE THEATRE
THURSDAY, AUGUST 22ND 7:00
LET’S SING TAYLOR
Taylor Swift Experience
Rockville Centre resident Mike Finnegan was honored as a life member by the Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association on Aug. 3 in White Plains.
Youth soccer association names a new life member
By DANIEL OFFNER doffner@liherald.com
The Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association unanimously decided at its annual general meeting on Aug. 3, to give Life Member status to longtime volunteer Mike Finnegan of Rockville Centre.
The Life Member award in local youth soccer is the equivalent to the Lifetime Achievement Award designation presented by other groups.
“A reason that the vote was unanimous is Mike’s steady personality is so deserving for Life Member status and he has volunteered in youth soccer for nearly 50 years plus continues volunteering today,” Association President Richard Christiano said.
Finnegan began his soccer journey like many other American adults, after his daughter Noreen registered for youth soccer. He started coaching Noreen in intramurals in 1977, while she played with the Rockville Centre Soccer Club, and coached her while playing for the Rockville Centre Cardinals travel team, for the next 15 years, up through the Under-23 division. His other daughters, Sharon and Veronica, also played soccer but didn’t have the opportunity to play while he was coaching.
He also coached the St. Agnes High School team for one year, just before it became Kellenberg Memorial High School in 1986. Arguably his greatest accomplishment during his brief stint was getting the private school girls players included in the Exceptional Senior Games organized by the Long Island Junior Soccer League.
Finnegan’s volunteering increased substantially when he was elected to the Board of Directors of the Rockville Centre Soccer Club in the 1980s, helping lead a period of great growth for the club. He also served as intramural
chairperson, travel chairperson, secretary, vice president and president during his tenure with the organization.
The longtime Rockville Centre resident was elected ENYYSA Treasurer in 1986 and performed this important role for more than two decades. That year, he also became a member of the East Region Olympic Development Program and served as camp director and team administrator for the next 30 years, until 2016.
His many awards and accolades include being inducted into the Eastern New York Soccer Hall of Fame in 2002 and his recognition as Volunteer of the year by the East Region in 2005.
Even now, in his eighties, Finnegan has not been slowing down as a volunteer. He has continued to serve as the ENYYSA Scholarship Chairperson since the turn of the millennium and has held the position as Appeals Chairperson for more than a decade.
The Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association is a nonprofit serving more than 100,000 youth soccer players — both boys and girls — and more than 25,000 volunteers from Montauk Point, Long Island to the Canadian border. Members are affiliated with 10 leagues throughout the association, which covers the entire state of New York east of Route 81.
The organization exists to promote and enhance the game of soccer for children and teens between the ages of 5 and 19 years old, and to encourage the healthy development of youth players, coaches, referees and administrators. All levels of soccer are offered — from intramural, travel team and premier players as well as programs for children with special needs. No child who wants to play soccer is turned away. It’s also a proud member of the United States Soccer Federation and U.S. Youth Soccer. For more information visit ENYSoccer.com.
Courtesy Eastern New York Youth Soccer Association
STEPPING OUT
More than just a
HIGHLAND FLING
Celtic traditions shine proudly at Old Westbury Gardens
By Danielle Schwab
Old Westbury Gardens lush grounds fill once again with those unmistakable bagpipe sounds and spectacle during a revamped edition of its annual summer festival. This year the popular event’s scope has expanded to celebrate the vibrant traditions of Long Island’s thriving Celtic communities.
Besides those pipers, traditional competitions and highland dancing — along with plenty of entertainment and assorted activities for lads and lasses — there’s much end of summer revelry to enjoy. Everyone will be fully occupied all day, next Saturday, Aug. 24.
This year Old Westbury Gardens staff is hosting solo (without participation from longtime co-hosts Long Island Clan MacDuff). The result is an energized refresh.
“Rather than focusing just on the culture of Scotland, we [wanted to] expand it a little bit so that we could avail ourselves of all of the great Irish bands and step dancers and all of these those things that span both the Scottish and the Irish cultures,” says Maura Brush, Old Westbury Gardens CEO and director.
Pipe and drum bands will fill the air with stirring music transporting attendees to those rolling hills of Ireland and Scotland. An extensive diverse lineup of musical and Irish dance entertainment complements these bands that participate yearly.
Headlining the festival this year, Derek Warfield and The Young Wolfe Tones bring the classic tradition of Irish balladry into a new age. Lead singer, the famed songwriter-storyteller Derek Warfield, is a legend of the Irish music scene who enjoyed phenomenal success for some 40 years with the Wolfe Tones. He’s now gathered some of the finest Irish musicians and singers together to reinvigorate beloved Irish tunes. They bring their musical tradition forward with a reverence for Ireland’s past and the energy and optimism of a new generation.
“Their sound is what so many people probably expect to hear when they come to Old Westbury Gardens,” Brush says.
• Saturday, Aug. 24, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
• $25, $22 seniors, $12 children, $12 members; advance purchase required
• 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury
• Tickets and information available at OldWestburyGardens.org or (516) 333-0048
Harper’s Ferry, a popular local Irish-American folk band also participates, with their appealing mix of traditional and modern Irish tunes combined with Americana and classic rock.
“Our band members are all native Long Islanders with a deep appreciation for local historical sites, especially Old Westbury Gardens,” says s Harper’s Ferry frontman Martin Kearn. “We see each performance as a blessing to spread our passion for Irish and Scottish heritage with the community.”
Other performers include bagpiper-percussionist Jessie Ofgang and soloist Charlie Zahm, who entices audiences with his instrumental prowess and rich baritone. Both have their own unique twist on bringing Celtic culture to melody.
“Their instruments are meant to be played outside in the green fields and we just have the perfect place,” Brush enthuses.
And, of course, it wouldn’t be a Celtic festival without some rhythmic Irish step dancing. The skilled dancers from four distinguished Irish dance academies will impress with their incredible footwork.
As is tradition, what are known as the Highland Games remain one of the festival’s main elements.The games continue to test athletes’ strength in heavyweight contests that date back
That pitchfork requires some coordination to successfully loft the 20 lb. burlap bag stuffed with straw over
pipers and drummers prepare to step
centuries, especially the caber toss.
The caber is a long, tapered pine pole or log. The “tosser” balances it vertically by holding the smaller end and then runs forward and tosses it so that it turns in the air with the larger end striking the ground first. Ideally, the pole strikes in a strictly vertical position, and the athletes are scored based on how closely the throw lands at a 12 o’clock position.
Think of it as throwing a telephone pole according to Brush. “It’s a giant log that gets thrown, and then the distance is measured, and whoever throws the throws it the furthest is the winner,” she says.
For the experienced competitor, these logs can be heavier than 125 pounds and longer than 20 feet long.
Tossing the Sheaf and Putting the Stone also attract attention. Tossing the Sheaf involves flinging a bale of hay over a horizontal pole with a large pitchfork. Putting The Stone, is similar to the traditional Olympicstyle shot put, but uses a large stone.
Want to get in on the competition? Visitors are encouraged to go for it.
“There are professionals that will be coming but there are opportunities for amateurs to sign up and participate as well,” Brush adds.
After all that exertion, folks are bound to work up an appetite. Take a moment and check out the food offerings, including fish and chips and Scottish shortbread.
It’s always a fun-filled family day with other unique experiences, including a Birds of Prey exhibition, British automobile showcase, and even curling hosted by the Long Island Curling Club. Kids will enjoy plenty of activities, including a version of the caber toss with lightweight “cabers” and an old-fashioned tug of war.
All involved are eager to welcome both older and newer generations, to preserve the fetival’s rich history.
“We’re not just relying on those who have always come, but also want people who are checking it out for the first time. This can become a new tradition for them,” Brush says.
Double Vision
The 1970s and ‘80s come alive when Double Vision brings their “Foreigner Experience” to the Paramount stage. Whether you’re a lifelong Foreigner enthusiast or a newcomer eager to experience the magic, Double Vision promises a night of electrifying entertainment. The spirit of rock ‘n’ roll lives on, one unforgettable performance at a time, with this group of talented musicians and die-hard Foreigner fans. Double Vision has perfected the art of bringing to life the unforgettable hits that have defined generations. From “I Want to Know What Love Is” to “Cold as Ice,” their renditions are a harmonious blend of passion, precision, and nostalgic energy. Drawing inspiration from Foreigner’s unmistakable sound and stage presence, Double Vision delivers a performance that pays homage to the band’s legacy while infusing their own charisma and enthusiasm.
Saturday, Aug. 17, 8 p.m. $60, $40, $25, $20. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.
Zac Brown Tribute
Enjoy an evening of foot-stomping fun with the music of the Zac Brown Tribute Band. Get ready to sing along to all your favorite Zac Brown Band hits, from “Chicken Fried” to “Toes” and everything in between. Founded in 2012, ZBTB is the premier tribute to the chart-topping Zac Brown Band. With 13 numberone singles and three Grammy wins, the Zac Brown Band is one of the hottest names in the music business; ZBTB is the first and most authentic tribute to their recorded music and live show. Not only does ZBTB capture the sound and creativity of ZBB, but they bring a similar atmosphere of family to their shows while engaging the audience in a way that is all their own. With classics like “Enter Sandman” and “Ants Marching”, as well as, modern hits like “There’s Nothing Holding Me Back” and “Little Lion Man” in the set, there’s something for everyone at a ZBTB show
Friday, Aug. 16, 7 p.m. Free admission. Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, Eisenhower Park, East Meadow. For information, visit NassauCountyNY.gov.
Courtesy Old Westbury Gardens
The Caber Toss separates the strong from the strongest.
Colorful
proudly around the grounds of Old Westbury Gardens honoring a cherished heritage.
the bar.
Aug. 24
Disco fever
Boogie along with Disco Unlimited, Saturday, Aug. 24, 7-9 p.m., at Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, Eisenhower Park. When Disco Unlimited hits the stage, you are instantly transported to a time when Saturday nights meant white suits, platform shoes and your very best dance moves. And dance you will — when you experience the magic created when the boogie begins.
Capturing a time in music that to this day has not been matched, the exhilarating band will draw you in with their powerful vocals, tight harmonies and dance grooves all coupled with a synchronized stage and light show that creates an unforgettable concert experience — the best of disco nights. Close your eyes and you will truly believe you are listening to the original artists. Hear the best of Tavares, France Jolie, The Trammps, Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes, Yvonne Elliman, Anita Ward, Deney Terrio, George McCrae, Bonnie Pointer, Melba Moore, Maxine Nightingale, Carol Douglas, and so much more. Joe Cool, Sista Soul, Funky Sista, Strat Cat, Wild Jerry and The MacDaddy comprise this group of unique and experienced musicians who love and live this era of music. As always, bring seating. For information, visit NassauCcountyNY.gov/parks.
Dramatic Play
Theatre Playground returns to Long Island Children’s Museum with “Dramatic Play!,” Monday, Aug. 19, 1 p.m., taught by Lisa Rudin, Director of Theatre Playground. In this interactive, theater-inspired workshop, children will act out an original story and help choose how it unfolds. Music, props, and sound effects create a theatrical world where participants are immersed. Children are encouraged to express themselves as they create characters, explore different worlds, stretch their imaginations and build self-confidence. Costumes encouraged. $5 with museum admission. Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.
Reading night on the lawn at Covert Elementary
This event was pushed back due to rain. Enjoy a good book this summer at William S. Covert Elementary School as it hosts the Rockville Centre School District’s summer reading night on the lawn, Wednesday, Aug. 21, 6:30 p.m. 379 Willow Street, South Hempstead.
‘Sunday Science’ Workshop
It’s a bug’s life at the Center for Science Teaching & Learning, Sunday, Aug. 18, 10-11:30 a.m. Kids are of all ages are invited to explore bugs at Tanglewood Preserve during the hands-on drop-off program. Kids will meet exotic invertebrates from around the world and find out what makes each one special, then search the preserve’s grounds to see what bugs live in our backyard. Registration required. 1450 Tanglewood Road, Rockville Centre. Register at ctsl. org or call (516) 764-0045.
Borrowed Time at Kasey’s Rooftop
Borrowed Time performs a variety of pop, rock and dance favorites at Kasey’s Rooftop on Thursday, Aug. 22, at 7:30 p.m. 27 N. Park Ave.
Labor Day
Rockville Centre school and village offices will be closed on Monday, Sept. 2, in observance of Labor Day.
Seasonal Sprouts
Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for a Seasonal Sprouts session, Wednesday, Aug. 21 , 11 a.m.-noon. Children (ages 4 to 6) can tour the gardens with guided activities exploring smells, sight, sound, and touch, even taste in planting a tasty veggie. $8 per child, $15 adult. Registration required. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information, visit OldWestburyGardens.org or contact (516) 333-0048.
Reading night on the lawn at Watson Elementary
This event was pushed back due to rain. Enjoy a good book this summer at Floyd B. Watson Elementary School as it hosts the Rockville Centre School District’s summer reading night on the lawn, Wednesday, Aug. 28 , 6:30 p.m. 110 Riverside, Dr.
Movie Night
Enjoy a film outdoors on Eisenhower Park’s big screen, Wednesday, Aug. 21, dusk, at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre. See last year’s summer sensation “Barbie.” Starring Margot Robbie as the title character and Ryan Gosling as Ken, the film follows them on a journey of selfdiscovery through Barbieland and the real world following an existential crisis. It is also a commentary regarding patriarchy and the effects of feminism. Eisenhower Park, Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow. For information, visit NassauCountyNY.gov.
MLK Community Day
The Village of Rockville Centre’s Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center invites all to Community Day, Saturday, Aug. 17, noon-4 p.m., with fun activities for all ages including music, dance performances, food and more.
150 N. Centre Ave.
Having an event?
Circus antics
Get in on the action with I.FLY Trapeze, Long Island’s only flying trapeze and circus arts school. Families will enjoy “Wild West Circus,” Saturday, Aug. 17, at 8 p.m., at Eisenhower Park. I.FLY Trapeze puts spectators up close to the aerialists who perform amazing feats of athleticism and agility 25 feet in the air. Performances include Chains, Silk and Lyra, with comedy and on the grounds acts with Balancing and Baton, also a Flying Trapeze Finale. Next to the Nassau County Aquatic Center off Merrick Ave., East Meadow. Free parking available in lot 1A adjacent to the trapeze. For more information, visit IFlyTrapeze.com.
RVC Heroes Day
Rockville Centre Public Library welcomes families to meet some of the heroes who help keep the community safe, Friday, Aug. 16, 10-11:30 a.m. Learn about what they do and check out their fire trucks and vehicles in the parking lot. This event is free and open to all ages. 221 N. Village Ave.
Items on The Scene 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 thescene@liherald.com.
On exhibit
Nassau County Museum of Art ‘s latest exhibition
“Seeing Red: Renoir to Warhol,” reveals the many meanings, connotations, and associations of this powerful color in art. Evoking strong emotion, red can represent the human condition. Its myriad variations have come to signify authority as well as love, energy and beauty. Red warns us of peril and commands us to stop, but it can also indicate purity and good fortune. Red boldly represents political movements and religious identities. From the advent of our appreciation for this color in antiquity to its continued prominence in artistic and popular culture, this exhibition will span various world cultures through a range of media. It features more than 70 artists, both established and emerging, ranging from the classical to the contemporary. American portraitists such as Gilbert Stuart imbued red in their stately paintings of prominent individuals to conjure authority. Robert Motherwell, Ad Reinhardt, and other major abstract painters displayed a deep fascination with red in their commanding compositions that evoke a sense of chromatic power. And, of course, Andy Warhol is known for his bold and imposing silkscreened portrait of Vladimir Lenin saturated in bright red to his signature Campbell’s Soup Cans. On view through Jan. 5. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.
Art talk
Grab your lunch and join Nassau County Museum of Art Docent Riva Ettus for her popular “Brown Bag Lecture” at the museum, Thursday, Sept. 5, 1 p.m. She’ll discuss the current exhibition, “Seeing Red: Renoir to Warhol.” Participants are invited to ask questions at the end of the in-depth program and also participate in a guided exhibition tour following the lecture. No registration required, but limited seating. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.
Light it up gold for pediatric cancer
The Village of Rockville Centre hosts a special tree lighting ceremony with the Mary Ruchalski Foundation, Thursday, Aug. 29, at 7 p.m., in recognition of Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month in September.
NEW YORK’S WRONGEST RUNNING COMEDY!
Relationships change over time PERSON TO PERSON
Iremember a storybook wedding at the Waldorf Astoria that I attended many years ago. The bride was radiant; the groom was beaming. She was exuberant as she spoke about her new husband as a special person who “is wonderful, caring, sensitive and makes me feel so good about myself.” He in turn, was passionate as he spoke about his new wife as a remarkable woman who “is loving, bright, beautiful and my best friend.”
It was a wondrous evening. This couple was glowing. They felt mutually appreciated, valued, esteemed, treasured, safe and loved. How superb, fantastic! We were witnessing couple heaven!!
pointment. She may speak about him as “selfish, uncaring, egocentric”; he may speak about her as “controlling, manipulating, never satisfied.” Instead of gazing into each other’s eyes, now they sit in silence as they gaze at the TV.
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And then, some crass woman on the reception line muttered (in much too loud a voice) “Just wait. She’ll wise up and see. Marriage is for the man’s benefit. Women get the raw end of the deal.” Her mate took the bait. “What do you mean for the man’s benefit? Women suck men dry. Marriage is a woman’s game. He’ll turn into a pansy soon enough.”
Everyone rolled their eyes. They motioned to this couple to shut up. They were spoiling the moment. Romantic weddings appeal to the deepest instinct in all of us who still believe in fairytale love that’s magical and wondrous. Romantic love is nature’s anesthesia, a time of infinite hope, when lovers are fully conscious of their passion and devotion toward one another, unconscious of the difficulties that are yet to surface.
Why, oh why was this crass couple intruding on the moment? And yet, many people in the room knew what they were talking about. Romantic love changes. The anesthesia wears off!
As change begins, starry-eyed lovers don’t wish to acknowledge it. Despite themselves, they get annoyed about things they previously glossed over. Still, they’re patient with one another, minimizing differences and apologizing for their judgments. “He’s tired”; “She had a hard day.” Problems are emerging, but so what, they tell themselves. No relationship is perfect!
As time elapses, however, romantic love typically recedes further from consciousness. Awakening from anesthesia, both husband and wife feel less tolerant of behavior that triggers anger, hurt, and disap-
Nagging differences may blossom into full-blown annoyances. He wants to watch the games on the weekends; she wants to go shopping with him. He can’t sleep unless the TV is on; she needs quiet to doze off. He orders from a menu without regard to cholesterol or cost; she focuses on diet and dollars. Romantic partners all right---like Michael Jordan and Mother Teresa! If romantic love is fading from your relationship, don’t panic! Just because you’re in another stage of love does not mean all is lost. Your task, should you choose to accept it, is to see if you can love this imperfect person, for whom he or she really is, not for whom you imagined your spouse was. Instead of feeling betrayed, dwelling on the reality that “you’re not the person I thought you were,” do what you can to grow the relationship.
Remember, you were under nature’s anesthesia at the beginning of your relationship. You wanted to believe that the two of you were like one. Your life together began as a romance novel, now it feels like a case study in a marriage help book. Bummer!
Though the snags in your relationship are difficult to manage, I hope you don’t end up being like that crass cynical couple at the wedding. Sure, you’d love to magically wish away any relationship troubles, but listen up!
Your current struggle with your spouse presents a fuller picture of who you both really are. Though these struggles may be the last thing your conscious mind desires, unconsciously, it may be just what you need to heal, expand, grow and truly accept your spouse for who he/she is.
©2024
Linda Sapadin, Ph.D., psychologist, coach, and author specializes in helping people improve their relationships, enhance their lives, and overcome debilitating anxiety, procrastination, and depression. Visit her website at PsychWisdom.com.
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: Mila Assets LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 05/23/2024. NY Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: 7014 13th Avenue, Suite 202 Brooklyn, NY 11228 Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity.
147882
LEGAL NOTICE
Public Notice to Bidders Sealed Bids will be received by the Purchasing Department of the Village of Rockville Centre, One College Place, Room 204, Rockville Centre, New York 11570 for the matter stated below until 11:00 am prevailing time on SEPTEMBER 5, 2024 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud. The contract will be awarded as soon thereafter as practicable for:
CONDUITS CROSSING SUNRISE HIGHWAY AT PARK AVE
Bid No. 2408E1(1124)
The bid specifications can be obtained/examined on the Village’s website at www.rvcny.gov. Follow the link to the Purchasing Department. Each bid mut be accompanied by a certified check, bank check or bid bond payable to the Incorporated Village of Rockville Centre in the amount of five (5%) percent of the gross amount of the bid. Please contact Stephen Blom at sblom@rvcny.us to confirm your attendance at mandatory site walk through. Drawings are also available upon request and after an NDA is signed.
All questions should be directed to the Purchasing Department. Please contact Lisa Strazzeri via email only at lstrazzeri@rvcny.us. Questions must be submitted no later than August 22, 2024. Award of Contract will be made to the lowest responsible bidder in accordance with applicable provisions of the law. The Village reserves the right to reject all bids or make such determination as in the best interests of the Village, as provided by law.
Purchasing Department
Lisa Strazzeri Purchasing Agent 516-678-9213 148446
LEGAL NOTICE
Public Notice to Bidders Sealed Bids will be received by the Purchasing Department of the Village of Rockville Centre, One College Place, Rockville Centre,
New York for the matter stated below until 11:00 am prevailing time on AUGUST 29, 2024 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud. The contract will be awarded as soon thereafter as practicable for:
RECREATION CENTER PARKING LOT IMPROVEMENTS Bid No. 2409CP1(1125) The contract documents, specifications and plans can be examined on the Village’s website at www.rvcny.gov. Follow the link to the Purchasing Department. Each bid must be accompanied by a certified check, bank check or bid bond payable to the Incorporated Village of Rockville Centre in the amount of five (5%) percent of the gross amount of the bid. All questions should be directed to the Purchasing Department. Please contact Lisa Strazzeri via email only at Lstrazzeri@rvcny.us. Questions must be submitted no later than August 22, 2024. Award of Contract will be made to the lowest responsible bidder in accordance with applicable provisions of the law. The Village reserves the right to reject all bids or make such determination as in the best interests of the Village, as provided by law.
Purchasing Department Lisa Strazzeri Purchasing Agent 516-678-9213 148425
LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK INDEX NO. 602744/2019 COUNTY OF NASSAU
SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS
Mortgaged Premises: 638 MAY STREET SOUTH HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550 Section: 36, Block: 200, Lot: 731-732 Defendants.
To the above named Defendants YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you.
NOTICE OF NATURE OF
NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC D/B/A MR. COOPER Plaintiff, vs. UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF LISSTTE QUINTANILLA, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; PATRICIA QUINTANILLA, AS ADMINISTRATOR, HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF LISSETTE QUINTANILLA; JOHN CARLOS VILLATORO, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF LISSETTE QUINTANILLA; ASHLEY VILLATORO, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF LISSETTE; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; VILLAGE OF MINEOLA; “JANE DOE” (REFUSED NAME) AS JOHN DOE #2; “JANE DOE” (REFUSED NAME) AS JOHN DOE #3; GERMAN JIMENEZ, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF LISSETTE; B.G., A MINOR CHILD, BY AND THROUGH THEIR LEGAL GUARDIAN, JOSEPH ALOYSIUS FREDERICKS, ESQ., AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF LISSETTE QUINTANILLA; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, “JOHN DOE #4” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last nine names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, Plaintiff designates NASSAU as the place of trial situs of the real property
ACTION AND RELIEF
SOUGHT
THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $416,999.00 and interest, recorded on July 11, 2006, in Liber 30712 at Page 83, of the Public Records of NASSAU County, New York, covering premises known as 638 MAY STREET, SOUTH HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550.
The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.
NASSAU County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county.
NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home.
Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action.
YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.
Dated: August 2nd, 2024 ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff Eric Sheidlower, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675 148444
Linda Sapadin
Fax your
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Magnificent Oceanfront Home
$749,000 Benton Road. Split Level. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Partial finished basement. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Formal dining room. Den/family room. Patio with overhang. Taxes: $10,662.33
Franklin Square $676,200
Anderson Avenue. Ranch. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Partial finished basement. Generously sized eat-in kitchen, Formal dining room. Rear extension for den/fourth bedroom. Updates include new heating system, central air conditioning. Nice size yard with paver patio. 2 car garage. Convenient location near shopping.
Taxes: $12,471
Freeport $845,000
Ann Drive East. Ranch. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Eat-in kitchen. Open layout. Updates include vaulted ceiling. Taxes: $11,143.48
Hewlett Harbor $3,900,000
Thixton Drive. Estate. 9 bedrooms ,8.55 bathrooms. Gourmet eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and pantry. Formal dining room. Den/family room, home office, exercise room/sauna, also wet bar and guest quarters. First floor bedroom. Cathedral ceiling and skylight. Security system. Magnificent one-of-a-kind 1,2000 square foot home with stunning views of the water and adjacent to the golf course.
Taxes: $106,213.42
Long Beach $910,000
Atlantic Avenue. Colonial. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. Eatin kitchen with granite countertops. Open layout. Formal dining room. Den/family room and sauna/steam room. Updates include cathedral ceiling and skylight.
Taxes: $15,561.70
Malverne $845,000
Horton Street. Ranch. 3 bedrooms,1.5 bathrooms. Eat-in kitchen. Open layout. Master bedroom with walk-in closet. Taxes: $15,205
Merrick $1,200,000
Judith Drive. Splanch, 5 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and pantry. Open layout. Formal dining room. Den/family room, home office and exercise room. Ensuite master bedroom with walkin closet. Updates include cathedral ceiling and skylight. Taxes: $21,990.26
Oceanside $469,000
Royal Avenue. Cottage. 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Open floor plan. Taxes:
Our project is never-ending
Q. We are near the end of our building project, which included a second floor and removing walls between our kitchen and living room. Our contractor hasn’t been answering the phone, and we learned that our building permit is still “open,” and remains that way until the contractor follows through, as our contract states. We are so frustrated, because it took much longer than we were promised, we spent much more than expected staying in a cheap hotel (if you call it that) and we moved back in even though, technically, we are told it is illegal. Our electrician and plumber, we now learn, didn’t get permits signed off, either, even though they gave their names and licenses to the building department. The building inspector says the construction doesn’t match the plans, and updated plans must be submitted for us to even be considered finished. What can you tell us about how to move forward and finish this off?
A. Spoken words and contracts used to mean something. I prefer to believe they still do, but I am seeing parties ignoring their commitments and, worst of all, not even having the decency to communicate. I try to warn clients to have a contingency plan for worst-case scenarios.
Ask The Architect
In my long career, I have seen only two projects come in on budget, one commercial and one residential. What both had in common was that they both had an experienced construction manager on the job. That cost the owner more — much more — but in the end, the plans were followed to the letter, the sign-offs were all done, the certifications were issued and the occupancy took place on the day it was scheduled to. Considering the other 4,500-plus projects I’ve done, that is a sad record.
At this point you have no choice. The plans that were not followed require re-measuring, and the plans need to reflect the changes. In many circumstances I have witnessed, this is easier said than done, because if the construction changes ignored structural load paths, hidden conditions now buried behind wall coverings or code violations, the architect or engineer of record is not obligated to just go along with the defective work. Unfortunately, this unfairly strains the relationship with the architect or engineer.
The missing-in-action construction professionals, your licensed contractor, licensed plumber and licensed electrician, have obligations, not the least of which is to communicate with you, but the authorities giving the licenses and your building authority rarely protect you, often telling you that it is a “civil matter.” So much for consumer protection, because you are stuck and will need to decide who you can hire to take over the electrical sign-off, the plumbing sign-off and finally, after those are done and the plans have been modified and reapproved, then you will need to call for the final inspection yourself. Follow-up can be time-consuming, but it may be the only way around the situation. Good luck!
© 2024 Monte Leeper
Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
Monte Leeper
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Rethinking the embarrassing saga of Pete Rose
Taking an evening off from Donald Trump, Kamala Harris and the frenzied world of politics in general, I recently sat down with my 20-year-old grandson Jack, who is staying with us for the summer, to bingewatch the HBO Max four-part special on Pete Rose, “Charlie Hustle.”
Every baseball fan, as well as many people who aren’t even sports fans, is aware of Pete Rose — either because of his truly outstanding 24-year major league career as a player, plus several years as a manager, or for the swirl of controversy that has surrounded him since he left baseball over three decades ago.
Rose came up to the major leagues with the Cincinnati Reds in 1963 and played there until 1978, and again from 1983 until 1986, after stints with the Philadelphia Phillies and Montreal Expos. He also managed the Reds until 1989, following two seasons as player-manager. During his playing career, he set records that should have guaranteed his permanent placement in baseball’s version of Mount Rushmore, the Hall of Fame in
Looking
one hundred people serve in the United States Senate. They represent the entire political spectrum, from far left to far right. There are definitely zealots, such as Bernie Sanders, the Democrat from Vermont, and Tom Cotton, the Arkansas Republican, and then there are the middle-of-the-road members, such as Chuck Schumer, Democrat of New York, and Lisa Murkowski, Republican of Alaska.
Then there is Sen. Ted Cruz, the Texas Republican.
I single out Cruz because he stands head and shoulders above all the other senators, for all the wrong reasons. Cruz is running for re-election this year, but this discussion has nothing to do with his current campaign. An article in a Long Island weekly newspaper isn’t going to sink the re-election efforts of this very strange public official.
For those who follow the action in the Senate, Cruz has the distinction of being the most disliked member of the body, on both sides of the aisle. How did
upstate Cooperstown.
Rose had more hits — 4,256 — and played in more games — 3,562 — than any player in major league history. He was selected for 17 All-Star games, won three batting titles and was named the National League’s Most Valuable Player once and the World Series MVP once. His entire list of achievements could fill this column and more.
Those achievements are virtually unmatched in the history of baseball, and dwarf those of many players in the Hall of Fame. If ever there should have been a sure thing for baseball immortality, it was Pete Rose.
Should his ban from baseball, and the Hall of Fame, continue? Opinions differ.
Probably the easiest way to describe Rose the person, however, is that as great a ballplayer as he was, he was that much of a jerk. He was a degenerate gambler. He bet not just on horses, greyhounds and at casinos, but also, despite almost two decades of denials, on baseball, which has been that sport’s cardinal sin since the 1919 World Series, when players on the Chicago White Sox — the infamous “Black Sox” — threw the World Series and were banned from baseball for life.
Generations later, after an extensive investigation, Commissioner Bart Gia-
matti concluded that Rose had gambled on baseball and banned him for life. There was no evidence, however, that Rose ever bet against his own team, which was what doomed the Black Sox. Soon after his banishment from baseball, Rose was charged by the IRS with tax evasion and sentenced to five months in federal prison. Most jarring to him was the Hall of Fame’s decision not to admit any player who had been banned for life.
In the years since, Rose has been like a man without a country. He has made good money at autograph shows, sports forums and media appearances. But he has been almost desperate for Hall of Fame membership. In his 2000 book, “My Prison Without Bars,” he finally admitted to betting on baseball, while still insisting he had never bet against his own team.
The debate has raged among baseball fans about Rose’s Hall of Fame eligibility. My son Sean, who was with me at Shea Stadium on July 25, 1978, when Rose tied the National League 37-consecutive-game hitting streak record, thinks that enough time has passed to end the lifetime ban and allow Rose into the Hall of Fame. My grandson Jack, who played a lot of good baseball in his teenage
years, agrees, as do I. The “Charlie Hustle” documentary, however, made us rethink. In it, allegations are made by a longtime associate that Rose engaged in cocaine deals to finance his gambling habit. There was an accusation by a woman claiming sexual involvement with Rose 40 years ago, when she was underage. Though corroborating evidence hasn’t been made public, there was an out-of-court settlement, and Rose became his own worst enemy when he answered a female reporter’s inquiry on the matter with a stupid sexist comment.
In most of the documentary, Rose comes across as friendly and carefree, like a Huckleberry Finn or a Little Rascal. But then there are jarring, crude comments and proof that he is a chronic and habitual liar, which takes away much of that rustic charm.
Jack now thinks Rose’s bans from baseball and the Hall of Fame should continue. Sean and I concluded that the baseball ban should continue, but he should be allowed entry into the Hall, provided that his plaque makes clear that the honor is only for his achievements on the field.
The debate continues.
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
for someone to dislike? Try Ted Cruz.
he get into this unique situation? His career track is similar to many other senators. He’s a graduate of Princeton University and Harvard Law School. He was known as an excellent debater, and his criminal law professor, Alan Dershowitz, said Cruz was “off-the-charts brilliant.”
He got his first taste of politics in 1999, when he went to work on the George W. Bush presidential campaign. He practiced law, and then decided to run for the Senate in 2013. With the help of the Tea Party movement, Cruz became the first Hispanic American from Texas to be elected to the Senate. All seemed normal up to that point, but as time passed, he became more and more irritating to his fellow senators. By 2013 he had earned the distinction of being called a “wacko bird” by his colleague the late Sen. John McCain.
went so far as to publish a “Compendium of People Who Hate Ted Cruz.” His former roommate called him “a nightmare of a human being.”
H e called Trump a ‘pathological liar,’ but guess who ‘Lyin’ Ted’ supports now?
What has made Cruz so disliked? In 2013 he staged a 21-hour talking marathon on the Senate floor against the Affordable Care Act. During his talkathon, he read Dr. Seuss’s “Green Eggs and Ham,” a bedtime story that he claimed to have read to his two daughters. That event translated into a shutdown of the federal government for 16 days, costing taxpayers grief and millions of dollars.
trip to Cancun. That winter, Texas was caught in a serious winter freeze. The state’s power grid had failed, and millions of Texans were without heat or power. In the middle of the crisis, Cruz travel to Cancun with his family to get away from the state’s misery. He was caught by cameras at the airport, ready to board his flight.
He claimed he planned the vacation for his children, and he was only flying to Cancun and coming right back. His wife’s texts described their home as “FREEZING,” and it was clear that it was a trip to get away from the cold while his constituents were suffering.
The barbs weren’t just from fellow senators. The Dallas Observer wrote that Cruz “defied the odds to become the most unpopular member of the U.S. Senate, a body of people whose collective approval rating falls below approval ratings for hemorrhoids, traffic jams, root canals and Nickelback.” Rolling Stone
In 2016, Cruz decided to run for president. One of his opponents was Donald J. Trump. The contest between the two was as ugly as you could imagine. They attacked each other’s wives, citizenship and integrity. Trump called Cruz “Lyin’ Ted,” mocked his wife’s appearance and falsely suggested that his father was involved in President John F. Kennedy’s assassination. Cruz called Trump a “sniveling coward,” a “pathological liar” and “utterly amoral.” But by the end of the primaries, Cruz had endorsed Trump.
No commentary on Cruz would be complete without mentioning his 2021
As for his legislative record, it includes such things as opposing gun laws even though his state had suffered mass killings, and calling the Supreme Court’s legalization of gay marriage a form of “tyranny.”
There is so much more to say about this man and his character. But the best way to end this is to say that I bet even my fellow columnist Peter King dislikes Ted Cruz.
Jerry Kremer was an assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He now heads Empire Government Strategies, a business development and legislative strategy firm. Comments about this column? jkremer@liherald.com.
HERALD
HeraLd editoriaL
Freshman Parenting 101: the college send-off
as summer winds down, many Long Island families face a bittersweet milestone: sending a child off to college for the first time. This transition marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, filled with excitement, anxiety and a mix of emotions for both parents and students.
For parents, the challenge lies in striking a delicate balance between supporting your child’s independence and maintaining a nurturing presence. Here is some key advice to help you navigate this new terrain:
1. Embrace the change. remember that this transition is a natural and positive step in your child’s development. Your role in his or her life is evolving, not diminishing. Celebrate this milestone and the opportunities it brings.
2. Prepare practically, not just emotionally. Ensure that your child has the necessary life skills before she leaves. Can she do laundry, manage a budget, and cook a simple meal? These practical abilities will boost her confidence and self-reliance.
3. Discuss expectations clearly. Have open conversations about academics, finances and communication. How often will you check in? What GPa do you expect him to maintain? Establishing clear guidelines can prevent misunderstandings down the road.
4. Encourage campus involvement. Urge
Letters
The real outrage is parents’ closed-minded responses
To the Editor:
your child to take part in orientation activities and join clubs or organizations. These connections can ease homesickness and help her find her place in her new community.
5. Be a supportive listener. Your child will likely experience ups and downs. resist the urge to immediately solve his problems. Instead, offer a sympathetic ear and guide him toward finding his own solutions.
6. respect your child’s privacy. While it’s tempting to check in constantly, remember that she needs space to grow. Trust that you’ve prepared her well and allow her to make her own decisions — and mistakes.
7. Take care of yourself. This transition affects you, too. Connect with other parents going through the same experience, take up a new hobby, or consider volunteering. Your well-being matters.
8. Plan for visits wisely. Schedule campus visits, but be mindful of your child’s new routines and commitments. Family Weekend can be a great opportunity to reconnect, and see him in his new environment.
9. Embrace technology. Familiarize yourself with video calling platforms and texting. These tools can help maintain closeness despite the physical distance.
10. Prepare for changes at home. If you have younger children, be aware that family dynamics may change. Include
The front page of the Herald last week, featuring the article “Gender identity video shown at Middle School sparks outrage,” made me sick to my stomach. The real outrage is transgender and non-binary students getting the message from their own neighbors, and maybe even their parents, that talking about them “sparks outrage,” and that it is so shameful and taboo to be transgender that it can’t be discussed at any grade level.
I watched the video of the Board of Education meeting with sadness and deep concern for the already vulnerable and misunderstood transgender students, who are at greater risk of depression and suicide. We know that a supportive community can reduce these risks. Based on the overwrought comments during the Board of Ed meeting, it’s obvious that education on gender is exactly what we need, and we appreciate the middle school teachers who attempted to respond to students’ curiosity.
KarIn JoHnSon Co-Founder, RvC Pride
the kids in discussions, and find ways to make this transition positive for everyone.
11. Stay informed, but don’t hover: Familiarize yourself with campus resources, but encourage your child to seek help independently when needed. Knowing when to step back is crucial. 12. Expect growth and change. Your child will likely return home with new perspectives, habits, and possibly even a changed appearance. Embrace these changes as signs of her personal growth. remember, this transition is as much about your growth as a parent as it is about your child’s journey to adulthood. It’s an opportunity to redefine your relationship and watch with pride as he spreads his wings.
For those feeling overwhelmed, know that you’re not alone. our communities are full of parents who have walked this path before you. reach out to friends, family members or local support groups for advice and comfort.
as your child embarks on this new adventure, take comfort in knowing that the strong foundation you’ve provided will serve her well. The values you’ve instilled, and the love and support you’ve offered over the years will guide her as she navigates this exciting new chapter of her life.
all of us at the Herald wish you and your college-bound students a smooth transition filled with growth, learning and new beginnings.
opinions
Offshore wind is the answer for Long Island
amajor societal shift always brings questions. The shift we are making to renewable energy is on a scale rarely seen in history, and questions are welcome and a part of the process of understanding. What are renewable energies? Why is the energy industry trending toward these energy forms? What are the options for Long Island when it comes to renewable energy? What are the risks? What are the benefits? It is clear that there needs to be more information and education about the industry.
Renewable energy is the energy derived from natural sources that are replenished on a human time scale — sunlight, wind, rain, tides, waves, water currents and geothermal heat. They are abundant, and produce little or no emissions. The sources that have been harnessed so far by humans are solar, hydropower, geothermal, and wind, and Long Island has a unique opportunity, because of its location, to harness offshore wind. Why do we need renewable energy?
Climate change is no longer deniable, and Long Island is affected by sea level rise, flooding, stronger storms and more rain. The number one reason: fossil fuels. The largest contributor to the thickening of our atmosphere, trapping carbon dioxide, is the burning of oil, gas and coal. The fastest way to stop climate change is to stop using fossil fuels. An easy answer — not really, which is why I’m writing this — is transitioning to renewable energy to power our lives.
we have a unique opportunity, because of our location, to harness its power.
Long Island sits just north of a continental shelf called the New York Bight, with shallow seas, strong winds and a large, dense population close to the coastline. The shallow water allows for structures to be built without the complications and expense of deep diving to build them. The strong winds help turbines turn consistently, producing energy needed to power homes, charge electric vehicles and operate businesses. And with a dense population close to the coast, energy can be delivered over a shorter distance without much loss of power, and at lower costs.
You may ask, why offshore wind? Why not solar or onshore wind? Solar power is being generated on Long
Letters
We should hear more from Peter King about Trump
To the Editor:
Re Peter King’s column “There’s just no predicting what will happen next” (Aug. 1-7): I live in southwest Nassau County, so never had the opportunity to have Congressman King on a ballot. It would have been unlikely for me to support him, because I’m a registered Democrat, and have moved from mid-left to further over as the years have passed. About to turn 80, I’ve got quite a rear-view mirror, as does King.
I never saw him as a hack politician — he explained his positions clearly, with passion for what he believed was best for us all. He always had my respect. King’s vote against President Bill Clinton’s impeachment still stands in the forefront of my mind. His position took political guts.
In his piece, King laid out the flaws in President Biden’s bid for another term, along with numerous elements surrounding the aftermath of the June 27 debate. The dynamics of the race have changed dramatically in the days since Biden’s withdrawal. Former President Trump has sunk to new lows in gender and race bashing. Though not unpredictable for him, his behavior must be coupled with the remarkable positions brought forward by his running mate, J.D. Vance. Together it’s quite a package.
I’m interested to learn how King feels about the Trump side of the campaign, because he said little on that front. My impression is that, whereas he supported Trump in the past, it would be a difficult lever for him to pull this time, and that he just might sit
Island, but not on the scale that we need to power the number of homes here. According to the Census Bureau, Long Island has just under 8.5 million housing units. That is where offshore wind comes in to meet our energy needs. There is growth in solar power through ground mounts, or on existing structures that don’t require open space, but it still doesn’t have the capacity to generate the power we need. And onshore wind requires large plots of land, which are few and far between in downstate New York.
Renewable energy is the only way for our future. We are seeing more cases of asthma, warming of the oceans, rising sea levels, stronger seasonal storms, and economic volatility due to the excessive use of fossil fuels to produce power. Moving to renewable energy will clear air pollution and slow the warming of the oceans, protecting ocean life, and slow the rising sea levels that threaten coastal communities. In turn, cooler water bodies will decrease the frequency of seasonal storms that flood our streets and erode our beaches. Offshore wind provides a stable and reliable energy source without the volatility of rising fuel prices. It also cre-
this one out. I’m curious about how King feels about the direction in which Trump/Vance want to take the country. What outcome does King want for us?
Thanks to King for being a quality congressman on the other side. He served when civil discourse was the norm, when rivalries were highly respectful, such as Ronald Reagan and Tip O’Neill. The very best to King.
JOSHuA WEISS Hewlett
Kremer has better memories of Biden than we will
To the Editor:
Re Jerry Kremer’s column “When Joe was born, they threw away the mold” (Aug. 1-7): Glad to see that Kremer has such a high regard for our president, and that their interactions have been so positive. Good for Jerry.
That said, I, and others (I’m not a MAGA, nor am I a fan of Trump) certainly have a different view from Kremer’s.
I find it hard to comprehend the idea that “no one … can match (Biden’s) talent for getting things done on a bipartisan basis” and his “history-making achievements.” From the economy, to the millions of people flooding our border with no plan in place to handle them, to the debacle in Afghanistan, to gas price and mortgage rates, and of course the lies about his mental status from Kremer’s party, not sure he can convince us of Biden’s greatness.
PAuL FACELLA Long Beach
ates thousands of good-paying jobs to build, maintain and operate its facilities. Beyond those working in the industry, utility stability is how offshore wind will benefit all of Long Island.
Most of the Island’s population now relies on fossil fuel generation to power their homes, workplaces, community centers and infrastructure. This means that electricity bills fluctuate with global geo-political events, because we are buying the fuel to run the power plants connected to our electric grid, mostly from other countries. With offshore wind, there is no need to buy “fuel.” The fuel is infinite, and not a commodity that’s for sale. The wind blows no matter what. This means that the costs of delivering electricity are fixed.
I want to see the renewable energy that we need come to Long Island. I want to ensure that we are delivering safe, reliable, responsible and clean energy to residents. Not only is this a critically needed change, but it will also improve our communities by stopping rising costs, and creating an economic engine with the added benefits of clean air, clean waters and fixed utility costs.
Melissa Parrott is the deputy executive director of Renewable Energy Long Island.
Framework by Bryan and Lori Lee
At a beach volleyball match, not long after a Parisian sunset.
meLissa parrott
