Franklin Square/Elmont Herald

16/08/2025

✍️ Craft your story with a pro ✍️

Screenwriter and former visual effects artist Jason Alvino, known for work on films like Tron Legacy and Sucker Punch, is offering free screenwriting classes at the Franklin Square Public Library on select Thursdays.

With decades of industry experience, Alvino is helping aspiring writers bring their stories to life. 🎬



https://www.liherald.com/elmont/stories/franklin-square-library-screenwriting-workshops-jason-alvino,216806?

Franklin Square native and professional screenwriter Jason Alvino is offering free screenwriting classes at the Franklin Square Public Library, teaching aspiring writers the art of storytelling.

16/08/2025

💈 Franklin Square rallies for autism support 💈

Neighbors came together on Aug. 3 for Roben Zargarov’s annual Autism Fundraiser, hosted by the Neighborhood Barber Shop, raising more than $8,000 for the Siragusa family through Kindness in Action.

The event featured games, raffles, a car show, and community generosity. 🚗🎟️



https://www.liherald.com/elmont/stories/neghborhood-barber-shop-autism-fundraiser-2025,216805?

Franklin Square’s Neighborhood Barber Shop raised more than $8,000 during its annual autism fundraiser on Aug. 3, helping the Siragusa family care for their 6-year-old daughter, Sofia.

15/08/2025

🌟 From Franklin Square to Statewide Honor! 🌟

Gina Centauro, co-founder of Rescuing Families Inc., has been named the 2025 Woman of Distinction by Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick for her transformative work in renovating homes to support individuals with disabilities—a mission rooted in her own caregiving experience.



https://www.liherald.com/elmont/stories/gina-centauro-woman-of-distinction-2025,216804?

Gina Centauro, co-founder of Rescuing Families Inc. in Franklin Square, has been named a 2025 Woman of Distinction by the New York State Senate for her work renovating homes for disabled families.

15/08/2025

🏗️ Community center plans still pending in Elmont 🏗️

Nearly six years after an agreement tied to the UBS Arena promised a new community space, Empire State Development says it is still searching for a suitable location and operator.

Month-to-month extensions continue as officials review potential sites. 📍

See what the community and leaders have to say:



https://www.liherald.com/elmont/stories/elmont-community-center-delays-progress-updates,216803?

Nearly six years after a deal promised Elmont a new community center, local leaders say Empire State Development has gone silent, leaving residents frustrated by the lack of updates and progress.

13/08/2025

At the Harriet Eisman Community School, students who once felt lost in traditional classrooms find connection, creativity and a community that sees their full potential. Led by Executive Director Joseph Smith, PhD and Project Director Danielle Bertoli, this alternative high school — part of Long Island Reach — is helping teens reengage, graduate and thrive in life beyond the classroom. Read more and the link below!

For more than 50 years, the Harriet Eisman Community School has been a lifeline for students who haven’t thrived in traditional settings. Operated by Long Island Reach, this alternative high school in Long Beach offers more than just a diploma — it provides connection, purpose and a renewed beli...

10/08/2025

🎭 Summer Spotlight on Sewanhaka Students! 🌟

All five Sewanhaka Central High School District schools came together to perform Once on This Island at the Elmont Memorial Library Theatre, showcasing talent and teamwork through a vibrant Caribbean-inspired musical.

This ongoing partnership with Plaza Theatrical continues to give students a professional stage experience, with more exciting shows ahead this fall!



https://www.liherald.com/elmont/stories/sewanhaka-summer-musical-once-on-this-island-2025,216654?

Students from all five Sewanhaka high schools lit up the stage at Elmont Memorial Library Theatre with their summer performance of Once on This Island, thanks to an ongoing partnership with Plaza Theatrical.

10/08/2025

📚 Back-to-School Ready! 🎒✨

As summer winds down, parents are gearing up for a smooth school year with key steps like registration, immunization checks, and new cell phone policies across local districts.

Staying informed now helps make that first day stress-free and successful for every student! Here are a few reminders to keep in mind:



https://www.liherald.com/elmont/stories/back-to-school-2025-registration-vaccines-cell-phone-policy,216653?

As summer winds down, Long Island parents are gearing up for the new school year with key updates on registration, vaccine requirements, and stricter cell phone policies across local districts.

09/08/2025

☀️ Elmont’s Summer Spirit Heats Up 🌭🎶

Neighbors came together for the annual Sussex Road Block Party, enjoying music, games, food, and family fun—while also honoring the life of longtime resident Vilna Desir.

Organized by the Locustwood Gotham Civic Association, the event featured local vendors, kids’ activities, and a heartfelt tribute that showcased the community’s pride and togetherness. 💛🏡



https://www.liherald.com/elmont/stories/elmont-block-party-2025-sussex-road-vilna-desir,216652?

Elmont residents gathered for a joyful block party on Sussex Road, celebrating community spirit with food, fun, and a heartfelt tribute to 100-year-old neighbor Vilna Desir.

09/08/2025

✨ Fashion for a Cause! 👗💃

Meera Empowerment’s 5th annual Fun Fashion Show Fundraiser Gala brought style, culture, and community together—raising over $6,500 to support children in Haiti.

Nearly 100 guests enjoyed a night of runway looks, cultural performances, and Caribbean cuisine, all led by 12-year-old founder Selene Ferdinand’s mission to uplift youth locally and abroad. 🌍💖



https://www.liherald.com/elmont/stories/meera-empowerment-fashion-show-elmont-selene-ferdinand,216651?

Twelve-year-old Selene Ferdinand led the charge at Meera Empowerment’s fifth annual fashion fundraiser in Elmont, raising over $6,500 to support children in Haiti while showcasing youth talent, culture, and community service.

08/08/2025

🎬 From Franklin Square to the big screen! 🎬

Local screenwriter Jason “Jay” Alvino and animator Mike Carlo are trying to bring their darkly funny, Long Island–inspired series Beefy Frank into the spotlight—complete with mutant hot dogs, the mafia, and plenty of heart.

With new creative power from Christy Karacas, a seasoned executive producer recently brought on board, they’re determined to get this unique project on screen. 🌭



https://www.liherald.com/elmont/stories/franklin-square-jason-alvino-beefy-frank-animation,216650?

Franklin Square native Jason “Jay” Alvino is betting big on Beefy Frank—a darkly comedic, Long Island-rooted animated series that blends horror, heart, and hometown humor.

08/08/2025

📚 Honoring the Life and Legacy of Al Harper 💙

The Elmont community is mourning Al Harper, who served the school district for 25 years as assistant principal, principal, and superintendent. Known for his mentorship, advocacy, and dedication to students, Harper helped expand community programs and championed educational excellence.

Born in Queens and a Howard University graduate, he inspired generations through leadership and kindness. Harper passed away July 28 at age 65. Services were held Aug. 2, and he was laid to rest at St. Charles Resurrection Cemetery.



https://www.liherald.com/elmont/stories/elmont-educator-superintendent-al-harper-remembered,216649?

Al Harper, Elmont’s first Black superintendent and a beloved force in local education, is being remembered for a legacy of leadership, compassion, and deep community impact following his death on July 28 at age 65.

05/08/2025

BREAKING ‼ Hempstead Town Supervisor Donald X. Clavin Jr. resigned during Tuesday's town board meeting, and Nassau County Legislator John Ferretti was appointed as the interim supervisor.

“I want to say what an honor and a privilege and a friendship all of you have been. And to the residents, you have always been very kind to me,” said Clavin, "I'm grateful for the opportunity to serve all of you. Even the critics have been the nicest people in the world to me. And I wish all of you the greatest success, and God bless you and God bless America.”

For more details, visit https://www.liherald.com/stories/hempstead-supervisor-resigns,216626?

📸: Courtesy Town of Hempstead