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HERALD Celebrating the festival of lights

Bellmore was ‘lit’ for Hanukkah

Your new school leaders

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Vol. 29 No. 1

JANUARY 1 - 7, 2026

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Big names back in Bellmore for Alumni Day Rocky Mountain news and then The Denver Post and radio work. Schefter told students that T wo p ro m i n e n t a l u m n i returned to John F. Kennedy internships and early experiHigh School to share career ence played a critical role in advice, personal reflections and his success. “ Vo l u n t e e r a t a p a p e r lessons learned on their paths to success during the school’s department, team, or station,” he said, recalling his time annual Alumni Day. ESPN NFL insider Adam working on the student newsSchefter, a member paper while attendof the Class of 1985, ing the University and Monday Night of Michigan. “Do Football director whatever you can A r t i e K e m p n e r, to get into the door. Class of 1977, took It’s all about what part in a panel disyou make of the cussion on Dec. 17 experience while led by the school’s you are there. It’s s t u d e n t g o ve r n up to you to go ADAM SCHEfTER ment. The pair make things hapreflected on their NFL insider, ESPN pen and seek out years as Kennedy John F. Kennedy High opportunities.” Cougars, discussed School, Class of 1985 K e m p n e r, a n how their educaEmmy Award–wintion helped shape ner joined ESPN in their careers and described the March after spending nearly professional journeys that led three decades at Fox Sports, them to the top of spor ts where he began working on media. NFL coverage in 1994. During Schefter, now one of the his tenure at Fox, he directed most recognizable NFL report- two Super Bowls and became ers in the country, spoke about one of only 12 directors to manthe winding road that brought age the game on any network, him to ESPN. Before joining bringing extensive experience the network in 2009, he built to ESPN’s Monday Night Foothis career through years of Continued on page 2 newspaper reporting for the

By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ

hgaldamez@liherald.com

Courtesy Bellmore Public Schools

Music and fun at Reinhard Early Childhood Center Students at Reinhard Early Childhood Center celebrated the holiday season with music as first-grade classes performed for peers and parents to close out the month of December.

o whatever you can to get into the door.

‘We are a community that lasts a lifetime’ Continued from page 1

ball production team. He reflected on the influence of his English teachers at Kennedy in the late 1970s. Schefter also credited an eighth-grade teacher, Mr. Flannery, with having a lasting impact on his development. “Reading and writing will guide you in every field you want to go into,” Schefter said. “Those skills are invaluable.” “That and finding a balance,” Kempner added. “Watch people around you, too, and really listen to them.” The school also welcomed back several members of the Class of 2025, who spoke with underclassmen about their college and career paths and offered insight into life after graduation. Emily Kesler, a senior and president of the Kennedy student government, said the alumni’s stories resonated with students. “It was awesome to have them come back because they didn’t really know what they wanted to do originally,” Kesler said. “They really had to climb, which a lot of us don’t realize while we are in high school. You kind of just have to trust the process and keep learning about yourself and others.” Schefter and Kempner were inducted into Kennedy’s Hall of Fame in 2012. Their return to campus, school officials said, highlighted the value of maintaining strong ties to the Cougar community. Gary Morgenstern, co-president of the Kennedy Alumni Association, introduced the speakers and encouraged students to remain connected to Kennedy long after graduation. “Your relationship with Kennedy should not end when you toss your caps in June,” he told students. “We are a community that lasts a lifetime. It is a powerful way to network and support the next generation of students.”

Courtesy Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District

Student government members Kayla indich and Zach Babitz, adam Schefter, artie Kempner, principal gerard owernburg and dr. gary morganstern, copresident of the Kennedy alumni association.

artie Kempner, student government members Zach Babitz and Kayla indich, and adam Schefter.

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Community gathers for Festival of Light celebration

BELLMORE HERALD — January 1, 2026

By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

Roughly 200 members of the Merrick Jewish Centre community gathered Dec. 17 for a Festival of Light celebration organized by the MJC Men’s Club and Hebrew School, coming together for an evening of Hanukkah observance, reflection and communal connection. The event filled the synagogue with candlelight as families, students and congregants of all ages lit menorahs together, shared traditional foods and participated in activities designed to highlight the themes of unity and resilience central to the holiday. The program included latkes, hot chocolate, an annual gelt drop for children and a Rabbi’s Roundtable discussion focused on the meaning and symbolism of Hanukkah. Rabbi Josh Dorsch said the timing of Hanukkah, during the darkest and coldest time of the year, underscored the importance of gathering as a community. “It’s no coincidence that Hanukkah takes place during the darkest and coldest time of the year,” Dorsch said. “That’s why we gathered together as a community, to bring warmth and joy and lights into our lives and the world around us.” Dorsch noted that Hanukkah is often referred to as the holiday of miracles, pointing not only to the story of the oil lasting eight days and the Maccabees’ military victory, but also to Jewish survival through centuries of adversity. “Especially in the wake of the tragedy that took place in Australia, Hanukkah reminds us of one of the greatest miracles of all — that given the arc of Jewish history, we Jews are still here,” he said. “Hanukkah encourages us to loudly and proudly publicize that miracle.” Darren Bleier, co-chair of the Merrick Jewish Centre School Board, said the Festival of Light reflected the synagogue’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and engaged community. “We are so fortunate to have such a large, diverse, vibrant and welcoming synagogue community and Hebrew School,” Bleier said, crediting Rabbi Dorsch, staff and lay leadership for creating a space that serves members from early childhood through adult-

Holden Leeds/Herald photos

Brian Sulzer with Shelley, 11, Lacy, 7, and Kiera Haller, 8, during the Merrick Jewish Centre’s Festival of Light celebration on Dec. 17. hood. Joshua Diamond, president of the MJC Men’s Club, said the group organized the event as part of its mission to strengthen communal bonds. “The Merrick Jewish Centre Men’s Club strives to create a strong Jewish community and organize and support programs where all within the MJC communi-

Rabbi Josh Dorsch shares a moment with his daughter, Ziva Dorsch, 5.

ty can participate,” Diamond said. “We look forward to growing this event year after year.” The celebration was also livestreamed for those unable to attend in person, allowing members to participate remotely while maintaining a shared sense of connection and celebration.

Seth and Liz Lapidus taking in the festivities.

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Rhoads speaks at Barry Tech brunch 1328219

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Courtesy Nassau BOCES

New York State Sen. Steven Rhoads; Nicholas Zgombic, a Barry Tech Police Science student and intern from the Bethpage School District; and Rhoads’ chief of staff, Christopher Dalton, attended the brunch.

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State Sen. Steve Rhoads was a guest speaker at the recent Nassau BOCES Barry Tech Industry Advisory Brunch, an annual event that brings together educators, students and business leaders from across the county. Rhoads’ office employs a Barry Tech graduate and currently hosts a Barry Tech Police Science student as an intern during the semester, highlighting the school’s connection to workforce development and public service. More than 100 business leaders were recognized during the event, which provides an opportunity for Nassau BOCES board members, administrators, faculty and staff to thank industry partners for their mentorship, guidance and continued support of career and technical education programs. Barry Tech is a Nassau BOCES career and technical education high school offering more than 40 hands-on courses designed to help students gain

practical skills and get a head start in their chosen career fields. Classes are taught in a state-of-the-art facility that simulates real-world work environments and meets current industry standards. Instruction may take place in settings such as an airplane hangar, horsetraining stable, carpentry shop or culinary arts kitchen. Faculty members are professionals in their respective fields who bring real-world experience into the classroom. After completing their studies, students may attend two- or four-year colleges, enter the workforce or continue advanced career training at technical schools. For more information, visit NassauBOCES.org, like Nassau BOCES on Facebook and follow the organization on Instagram.

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Hofstra wrestling builds championship culture By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com

Jamie Franco achieved some championship success in his first season as Hofstra wrestling head coach and is looking for more this winter. Hofstra captured two individual EIWA titles in March from graduate students Kyle Mosher and Ross McFarland while placing seventh as a team for the program’s best finish since 2021. Franco, a three-time NCAA Championship qualifier at Hofstra, is looking to build off of those titles with a younger team and see more wrestlers reach the top of the podium when the Pride compete at the 2026 EIWA finals at American University in Washington, D.C. “We are hoping that the success we had last year is going to help pave the way for some of the younger guys and show them that guys on our team can win titles and why not them,” said Franco, who was a Hofstra assistant coach from 2016 to 2023 and spent one season on the Columbia staff before leading his alma mater on the mats. Franco named four captains to try and instill a championship culture: Ryan Arbeit, Jurius Clark, Chase Liardi, and Jake Slotnick. Clark, a redshirt sophomore from Blakewood, N.J, recorded a 4-2 decision at 174 pounds in Hofstra’s 21-15 EIWA win at Sacred Heart on Nov. 13. He captured 13 matches last season and placed seventh at the EIWA Championships at 157 pounds. Slotnick, also a redshirt sophomore, finished in eighth place at 165 pounds in the 2025 Keystone Classic at Penn in Philadelphia on Nov. 23. The Williamstown, N.J. registered an 8-6 victory against 26th-ranked wrestler Cesar Alvan of Columbia on Nov. 16. Liardi, a graduate student from Massapequa, brings veteran leadership after winning 12 matches last season as a captain. Arbeit, a redshirt sophomore from Wantagh who won a Nassau County title in 2022, captured the 133-pound

Will Conlon, right, had one of Hofsta’s wins against powerful Penn. weight class at the New York State Championships as an unattached entrant last year. “We let the team pick their captains and then all the coaches get a vote as well so those four guys really represent what we’re looking for in our student athletes,” Franco said. “We push on our guys that it’s not just about winning wrestling matches but is also about winning in the classroom and winning in the community.” Redshirt sophomore Frank Volpe is showing promise early in the season placing third at 157 pounds at the Princeton Open on Nov. 3. He also picked up one of two Hofstra wins in a 31-6 loss at Columbia with a 2-0 decision against

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Photos courtesy Hofstra Athletics Communications

Jake Slotnick, left, is one of the Pride’s four captains. Charles Scanlan at 157. The Pride have tackled a grueling schedule to open the season which included a 35-8 loss to then 23rd-ranked Penn on Nov. 22 with Matt Waddell and Will Conlon recording wins against the Ivy League power. Conlon, a junior from Alabama, posted a 6-1 decision against Penn’s Martin Cosgrove at 197 pounds. Waddell, a redshirt sophomore from Georgia, won by technical fall at 184 pounds versus Xander Kuokkanen. Hofstra will host local EIWA rival

Long Island University on Feb. 9 at 7 p.m. before hosting both Harvard and Brown in two matches on Feb. 15 starting at 1 p.m. The Pride’s last home dual match is scheduled for Feb. 18 at 6 p.m. against Big Ten opponent Rutgers, who was ranked 17th in the nation in late December. “We hope the Long Island community keeps coming out and supporting us,” said Franco. “We hope we can get a good crowd for those guys and watch some great Division I wrestling.”

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Courtesy Andy Robles

Talia Robles, right, was the Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference’s Wrestler of the Week with a 5-0 record, taking her team to nationals.

Bellmore’s best heading to wrestling nationals By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com

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Talia Robles of North Bellmore is now a regional wrestling champion. After years of wrestling in Mepham High School, the athlete claimed the Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference title as a member of Elmira College’s women’s wrestling team. Talia earned the title Wrestler of the Week on Dec. 1 for her 5-0 record, leading the Soaring Eagles team to an undefeated first place finish, according to the AMCC. Claiming the AMCC Dual Champions title means she and her teammates reigned supreme over almost 10 other colleges. Next, Talia and her teammates will face off against some of the best wrestlers in the country in the NCAA’s 2026 Women’s Wrestling Championships.. AMCC is a division of the National Collegiate Athletic Association, an organization with over 500,000 participating student athletes. Her father, Andy Robles, is one of her first and greatest supporters, cheering for her through every match. “Pride is the only way to really describe it,” he said. “There’s a lot of people that you know can step on that bet, and they don’t, and she’s one of the special ones.” At the end of 6th g rade, Talia approached her parents and shared her intent to wrestle. Wrestling runs in the family. Her brother, Nicholas, was an athlete in Mepham. “I had always been in the bleachers watching my brother wrestle, and I wanted to try to give it a shot,” she explained. Talia was a freshman while her brother was a senior. “It was a great moment… they got to wrestle together for that one year,” Andy said “It’s support, making sure that she feels like we’re always behind her and that we support the decision she made.”

Entering the wrestling scene came with its own challenges; Talia was one of a small handful of female wrestlers in the school. Until her junior year, she spent her entire career wrestling boys. “At first, I was 84 pounds and just getting tossed around by all these boys, which really was awful,” she said, “but I stuck with it — and I’m really glad I did, because now I’m wrestling in college.” As she progressed through school, her wrestling skills and achievements grew. “Moving into high school, I was lucky enough to have great coaches,” Talia said. “They went to the girls’ tournaments with me. They got me matches with girls, and they made sure that boys in the room respected me. I was really appreciative of that.” She was one of only two young women to wrestle at Mempham all four years that they attended, one of only two girls to be on their Wall of Champions, according to her father. Even so, Talia flourished: she was an all-state wrestler for Mempham in her senior year, and a two time Long Island girls champion during her junior and senior years. Talia’s hard work paid off. Today, she is a sophomore at Elmira studying biology and plans to become a veterinarian. Joining an all-girls team at Elmira was “something like I had never felt before,” she said. “They were just so comforting… Having those support systems around me is what it really helps.” The future is looking bright for fellow wrestlers entering the women’s leagues, Talia said. “I’m extremely, extremely proud of how far Long Island has come with girls and the sport,” she said. “It has grown tremendously from when I first started going to girls tournaments. There would have been two or three people in a bracket, and now it’s growing; there’s teams, there’s dual meets. It’s just incredible to watch.”

Northwell warns of winter ‘tripledemic’ jdalessandro@liherald.com

A “tripledemic” — influenza, Covid19 and the respiratory syncytial virus — is at the heart of Northwell Health’s battle against contagious disease this winter. According to Northwell’s team of doctors, researchers and other medical professionals, Long Island is facing a challenging flu season: While the number of flu cases increases dramatically every week, the rate of hospitalizations jumped 75 percent in a single week, between Thanksgiving and Dec. 5. The outbreak has created a surge in emergency department and urgent care visits throughout the region. “Northwell typically runs about 2,800 to 3,000 patients in our hospital beds,” its president and CEO, John D’Angelo, said at a news conference on Dec. 18. Currently Northwell has 3,500 patients, about 10 percent of whom are suffering from the flu. While Northwell’s surge planning helps it handle the larger volume of patients, D’Angelo warned that flu season was far from over. “We haven’t plateaued yet — we haven’t seen a bump,” he said. “We’re still on kind of that rapid-ascent part of the curve, and we have to see where it goes.” Bruce Farber, Northwell’s chief public health and epidemiology officer, said

Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald

Northwell Health’s Annemarie Stroustrup, Bruce Farber, President and CEO John D’Angelo and Dwayne Breining shared their advice on staying safe during flu season. he focuses on ways to keep people out of the hospital. Regarding this year’s flu vaccine, Farber said, “It is very good at preventing hospitalizations and deaths.” Farber anticipates 25,000 flu deaths this year, exceeding those related to Covid, with a higher concentration of pediatric and senior deaths. Though this year’s flu cannot stop the transmission of the disease, it can effectively reduce its severity. “I’ve not seen a death in somebody who’s been vaccinated, and I have seen plenty of deaths in people who have not been vaccinated,”

Farber said. “I strongly encourage everybody to get the vaccine.” The Northwell team’s other advice for members of the public is to use common-sense strategies in addition to vaccination to avoid spreading diseases. Dwayne Breining, senior vice president of lab services, described tests as an important way of catching and responding to cases before they escalate. Northwell conducts 25 million tests each year in its 100,000-square-foot laboratory, making use of cutting-edge machinery and artificial intelligence

partnered with medical experts. Even with this processing power, there has been a broader need for results. The Northwell team announced LabGold, a free three-in-one “tripledemic” test that can be picked up and dropped off at the system’s various patient service centers. “You can get one of our PCR tests at any health care site,” Breining said. “We recommend the triple test for flu, RSV and Covid, because, symptom-wise, they look the same, so you may not know what you have if you feel sick. … Usually within 24 hours, you’ll have the definitive PCR result.” As the senior vice president of pediatric services at Northwell, Annemarie Stroustrup oversees Cohen Children’s Medical Center, where sickness has spread. “The story that you hear for adults is virtually the same for children,” Stroustrup said. “There is a lot of flu in the community.” Northwell’s pediatric patients show a much lower rate of RSV infection, however. “I think part of that is because there are new products on the market for babies and for pregnant women to get vaccinated or prophylaxed against RSV,” Stroustrup said. “The vaccine does help keep kids out of the hospital.” To learn more about Northwell’s testing and LabGold, visit nwhlabs.Northwell.edu/Covid-19-testing.

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BELLMORE HERALD — January 1, 2026

By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO

January 1, 2026 — BELLMORE HERALD

Members of the Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores and Congregation Beth Ohr stand together to celebrate the Jewish holiday.

Lauren Chin/Herald photos

Bellmores Chamber hosts community menorah lighting The Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores hosted a community menorah lighting on Dec. 17, bringing residents together to celebrate the start of Hanukkah. Religious leaders from Congregation Beth Ohr led the gathering in prayer as the Bellmores lit a 10-foot menorah in honor of the eight-day Jewish holiday. Community members, local leaders

and families attended the event, which emphasized the themes of faith, resilience and unity. The ceremony served as an opportunity for residents to come together during the holiday season and celebrate the cultural and religious diversity of the Bellmores. — Hernesto Galdamez

A 10-foot menorah stands illuminated during the Bellmores community Hanukkah celebration.

Rabbi Rishe Groner of Congregation Beth Ohr.

Lauren Chin/Herald photos

Marie Spohrer holds a basket of chocolate coins to share with families during the Bellmores community menorah lighting on Dec. 17.

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Newbridge students to roar into new year as leaders

January 1, 2026 — BELLMORE HERALD

Students at Newbridge Road Elementary School in the North Bellmore School District will take on new leadership roles in the new year with the launch of two student-led initiatives designed to build school spirit and strengthen community. Tiger Birthday Boosters will begin on Jan. 5, followed by Thunder’s Greeting Squad on Jan. 12. Both programs are open to students in grades 3 through 6 and are named after the school’s tiger mascot. Through the Tiger Birthday Boosters program, students will travel throughout the school each day after the morning announcements to recognize classmates celebrating birthdays. The Boosters will carry a calendar and deliver greetings by singing “Happy Birthday,” offering high-fives or fist bumps, and handing out handmade cards or posters to make each celebration festive. “The whole point is to make it really fun and exciting,” Amanda Licci, principal of Newbridge Road Elementary School said during an introductory meeting with the first group of Birthday Boosters on Dec. 22. Students will serve as Birthday Boosters twice per sixday cycle throughout January and February, with two additional groups participating before the end of the school year. Beginning Jan. 12, members of Thunder’s Greeting Squad will be stationed inside the school near arrival entrances and throughout the hallways each morning. Student greeters will be required to arrive by 8:15 a.m. and report to assigned posts, where they will welcome students and staff with smiles and kind words to help everyone start the day on a positive note. Greeters will rotate daily and work alongside faculty and staff who already greet students outside the building. Licci said the addition of student greeters increases peer-to-peer interaction and helps build a stronger school community.

Photo courtesy of the North Bellmore School District

Newbridge Road Elementary School Principal Amanda Licci had an introductory meeting on Dec. 22 for the Tiger Birthday Boosters, which officially begins in the new year as a leadership opportunity for students in grades 3-6. Students interested in either leadership group were required to complete an application and receive a recommendation from a teacher or the principal. Participants in both programs receive ID badges to reflect their leadership roles within the school. “Reading the applications, you could see how serious they took this process, so it’s very meaningful and impactful for them,” Licci said. “This is just another step

toward growing student leadership.” The two new initiatives will join several existing leadership opportunities at Newbridge Road Elementary School, including student council, Beautification Club, Café Club, Junior Librarians, Smile Club, Spirit Club and Students Against Destructive Decisions. — Hernesto Galdamez

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Last season, Christian Van Horn, left, in the role of “Four Villains” in The Metropolitan Opera’s production of Offenbach’s “Les contes d’Hoffmann,” which received a Live in HD broadcast

From Long Island to Lincoln Center Center stage at the Metropolitan Opera with Christian Van Horn By Daniel Offner

ith a voice that can “shake the heavens” (Opera Today), bass-baritone Christian Van Horn is known for his compelling and charismatic stage presence, powerful voice and his unwavering authenticity, both on and off the stage. Growing up in the shadow of Manhattan motivated him to strive for the highest level, knowing that the world’s best performers were only a short train ride away. “New York City was always kind of calling to us,” Van Horn says. “Everyone knew that the people who were the best at everything were in New York City.” That ambition ultimately carried him to the storied Metropolitan Opera, where he made his debut in 2013 and has been a regular presence ever since. This winter, he is scheduled ChrisTian to appear in two Van horn overlapping productions on the company’s stage. Starting Dec. 31, the Met presents a new production of Vincenzo Bellini’s “I Puritani,” featuring Van Horn as Giorgio Walton. The opera runs through Jan. 18 and will be broadcast live in movie theaters across Long Island and worldwide as part of the Met’s longrunning “Met Live in HD” series. He’ll also be performing as Escamillo in Georges Bizet’s “Carmen,” which runs from Jan. 11 through Jan. 23 at the Met. Van Horn, 46, was introduced to performing at an early age, when his mother got him involved in the church choir — a decision that quietly shaped his future.

here were as many people telling me I couldn’t do it as there was telling me I could.

“I think it was to keep me out of trouble,” he says jokingly. “I just sort of never quit.” He spent his earliest years in Rockville Centre, from birth in 1978, followed by a move to East Meadow, before the family ended up in Centereach, where he attended high school. Through all of it, music remained a constant thread. “I was doing music and Broadway shows right through high school,” he says. “I wanted to keep going. I didn’t know anything else.” After high school, he attended Stony Brook University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in music before continuing his studies at Yale. Van Horn began formal classical vocal training in earnest during college, where a professional vocalist recognized his promise and encouraged him to pursue singing as a career. “There were as many people telling me I couldn’t Courtesy Met Opera/Jonathan Tichler do it as there was telling me I could,” he recalls. “I Van Horn in rehearsal for the took a lot of motivation from the ones who told me I upcoming“I Puritani” at the Met Opera. couldn’t.” He adds that his drive was fueled as much by skepticism as encouragement, reflecting the competitive nature of growing up on Long Island. “There’s a competition that exists when people live so close together,” he explains. “I think that sense of proximity and rivalry really shaped how I approach my career — always striving to be better, always aiming for that next level.” Van Horn has since performed on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including La Scala in Milan, the Royal Opera House in London and the Paris Opera. Recognized for his operatic flair and rich bass-baritone voice, he has performed a diverse range of roles, from Mozart and Verdi to more contemporary works. In the upcoming production of “I Puritani” he observes that the demands are especially exacting. “The soloists in this are the Olympic athletes of opera,” he says. At its core, according to Van Horn, performing is about offering audiences a brief escape from what he terms the “monotony” of daily life. “Let’s help people leave reality for a minute. The story we’re telling is easy. It’s a forbidden love story. It’s opera confusion. It’s not rocket science. “And so my whole approach to performing is: let’s bring people into our little world. Let’s ruin them with beautiful music and beautiful singing, and they can go back to the world and look at their phones or watch the news or all the things that make us crazy.” “I Puritani” debuts at the Metropolitan Opera on Dec. 31 and will be broadcast to movie theaters worldwide Live in HD on Jan. 11. “Carmen” follows from Jan. 11 to Jan. 23. For tickets and more information, visit metopera.com.

MANIA brings ABBA fans old and new a night not to be missed. If you’re looking for an excuse to party, reminisce or simply be entertained, then you’ll want to see MANIA. In 2024, the iconic pop group celebrated the 50th anniversary of their breakthrough hit single, “Waterloo,” and MANIA is excited to continue sharing the joy of this monumental milestone with audiences on their latest tour. Costumes, lively choreography and impeccable musicianship combine for an unforgettable authentic ABBA experience.Join them as they recreate the magic of ABBA’s music, transporting you back to the ‘70s disco. So dig out those platforms, dust down those flares, join in and enjoy all of your favorites, including “Mamma Mia,” “Voulez Vous,” “Dancing Queen,”“Winner Takes It All,” “Super Trouper,” and many more.

Wednesday, Jan 7, 8 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Albert Lee Celebrated by fans and musicians the world over for his fingerstyle and hybrid picking technique, guitar icon Albert Lee is back on the road. He performs tracks from his newest album, “Lay It Down” recorded at the legendary Konk Studios in London A double Grammy winner with Earl Scruggs and Brad Paisley, Lee has played with everyone from Jerry Lee Lewis to Eric Clapton, to the Everly Brothers to Emmylou Harris. A member of The Crickets in the post-Buddy Holly era, he forged an impressive solo career along the way. His latest album is a love letter to some of Albert’s favorite artists and biggest inspirations. From Mark Knopfler’s blistering “Setting Me Up” to Jimmy Webb’s soaring piano ballad “Too Young To Die,” to The Everly Brothers’ storming hit “The Price Of Love.” Don’t miss the man known as “Mr. Telecaster,” one of the legendary guitarists of rock ‘n roll, rockabilly and country music. He continues to tour with his signature Ernie Ball Music Man Guitar.

Friday, Jan 10, 8 p.m. $53. My Father’s Place 1221 Old Northern Blvd., Roslyn. Tickets available at mfpproductions.com.

BELLMORE HERALD — January 1, 2026

‘Digging the dancing queen…’

January 1, 2026 — BELLMORE HERALD

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD JAN

‘Home for the Holidays’ Pet Adoption

CALENDAR be accompanied by an adult care giver.; $20 adult, $10 members and children. Advance registration preferred.

There’s no better time to adopt a new pet than during “Home for the Holidays’ at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter. All adoption fees are waived and include free spaying/neutering, vaccinations and micro-chipping. Preview the cats and dogs online at Hempsteadny.gov/179/animalshelter.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor • Time: 1:30-3 p.m. • Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

JAN

Merrick Library offers the AARP Smart Driver Course. Boost driving skills and obtain multi-year discount on your auto insurance. Registration required.

• Where: 3320 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh • Time: Ongoing, through Jan. 4. • Contact: (516) 785-5220

• Where: 2279 Merrick Ave. • Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • Contact: merricklibrary.org

Let’s Skate

Enjoy all the thrills of the snowy season during the final days of Long Island Children’s Museum’s popular “Snowflake Sock Skating rink. Slip on “sock skates” and take a spin on the indoor rink, made from a high-tech synthetic polymer surface that lets kids slide around without blades. Kids can stretch, twirl and glide. As visitors step off the “ice” they can jump into winter dramatic play in Snowflake Village. Become a baker in the holiday sweet shop, step inside a giant snowman and serve up some hot cocoa, take a turn in the rink “ticket booth” and “warm up” around a rink side “fire pit.” • Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: Ongoing during museum hours, through Jan. 4. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

JAN

Uncle Tony’s Reptile Show

Families are invited to North Bellmore Public Library to get up close and personal with real-life reptiles. Learn fascinating facts and meet these amazing animals in person. For ages 3-10. Registration required. • Where: 1551 Newbridge Road • Time: 2-3 p.m. • Contact: northbellmorelibrary. org

JAN

Splish Splash… Animal Bath

Hang out with some Long Island Children’s Museum’s “residents” at the drop-in program. Join an animal educator in the Hive Studio’s in the Feasts for Beasts Gallery to learn what goes into the care of LICM’s animal “residents.” Observe animal bath time. • Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: 1:30-2 p.m.

AARP Smart Driver Course

JAN

Yacht Rock Revue

Yacht Rock Revue, hailed by Rolling Stone as the “world’s premier soft-rock party band,” invites audiences on a nostalgic voyage through the sun-soaked melodies of the ‘70s and ‘80s. This dynamic 10- piece ensemble blends impeccable musicianship with a deep reverence for the yacht rock genre. Many reverently consider the Atlanta, Ga. Band keepers of the Yacht Rock fire. Since their humble beginnings in 2007, YRR has emerged as a pivotal figure in revitalizing yacht rock, sharing stages with icons and garnering a devoted following of “Anchorheads.” Whether performing in intimate venues or rocking arenas, their concerts promise an immersive musical journey that celebrates the timeless allure of smooth grooves. Inspired by the golden era of soft rock, the band has mastered the art of recreating the breezy and laid-back tunes that defined a generation. From the sun-kissed melodies of Steely Dan and Michael McDonald to the velvety harmonies of Hall & Oates, their repertoire spans an ocean of beloved hits that evoke memories of palm trees, ocean breezes and carefree summers. But Yacht Rock Revue isn’t just a tribute band; they are musical alchemists, seamlessly blending their own unique style • Where: The Paramount, 370 New with the iconic yacht rock vibe. Their original compositions are a modern ode York Ave., Huntington to the genre, capturing the essence of those bygone days while infusing it with • Time: 8 p.m.; also Jan 9-10 a fresh and invigorating twist. $82, $60.25, $49.25 $37.25 • Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

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

JAN

Merrick After School: Dungeons & Dragons

Teens in grades 7-12 are invited to Merrick Library with your friends to participate in the popular game. Registration required. • Where: 2279 Merrick Ave. • Time: 4:15 p.m.-5 p.m., also Jan. 14, Jan. 21 and Jan. 28 • Contact: merricklibrary.org

JAN

Chess for adults

Learn the fundamentals of chess with Chris Lucangeli at North Bellmore Public Library. Registration required. • Where: 1551 Newbridge Road • Time: 6-7:30 p.m.; also Jan. 22, Feb. 5 and Feb. 19 • Contact: northbellmorelibrary. org

Little Learners Art Lab Each week in this engaging workshop, participants are introduced to hands-on materials, artmaking, and inspiration from

artists and techniques. Young kids, ages 2-5, build critical thinking skills, expand vocabulary, and support imaginations as they play, create and explore. $4 with museum admission.

Elated Eagles

North Bellmore BOE meets

Long Island Children’s Museum invites families to discover the mighty eagle. Since 1782, the bald eagle has been the United States’ national emblem and mascot. These amazing animals have an impressive wingspan of 7 feet and use their strong wings to soar 10,000 feet in the air. Come learn all about these majestic birds and make your own flying eagle craft in honor of National Save the Eagles Day. This is a drop-in program, free with admission.

• Where: 2616 Martin Ave. • Time: 7:30 p.m.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: Noon-2 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: 11:30 a.m.-noon • Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

The Board of Education holds its next meeting. Stay up to date on district issues.

JAN

Concert program

North Bellmore Public Library welcomes the Voyager Reed Quintet. The ensemble explores shared humanity with a repertoire that traverses stylistic boundaries and celebrates the intersections of diverse musical traditions. • Where: 1551 Newbridge Road, Bellmore • Time: 2:30-3:40 p.m. • Contact: northbellmorelibrary. org

‘Violet’s Victory’

Families are invited to Nassau County Museum of Art for a special story time with children’s author Valerie Goldstein, who shares her inspiring picture book Violet’s Victory! Follow Violet, a determined young girl with lavender hair, as she discovers her strength, perseverance, and the power of adaptive sports on her journey to achieve her dreams. After the reading, meet the author for a book signing and enjoy a fun, hands-on craft inspired by Violet’s story of creativity, courage, and confidence. Children must

JAN

volunteer.

Board Game Buddies

Play board games,or bring your own, at Bellmore Memorial Library with a teen

• Where: 2288 Bedford Ave. • Time: 4:30-5:30 p.m. • Contact: bellmorelibrary.org

‘Brown Bag’ Art Chat

Grab your lunch and join Nassau County Museum of Art Docent Riva Ettus for her popular “Brown Bag Lecture” at the museum. Explore “The Real, Surreal, and Photoreal,” through a lively and informative presentation. No reservations. First come,first seated. • Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor • Time: 1 p.m. • Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

JAN

Crafts with Corinne

Create a decorative basket at North Bellmore Public Library. Registration required.

• Where: 1551 Newbridge Road • Time: 11 a.m.-noon • Contact: northbellmorelibrary. org

Having an event? Items on the Calendar page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to kbloom@ liherald.com.

North Merrick man gets nine years in prison hgaldamez@liherald.com

A North Merrick man was sentenced to nine years in state prison after pleading guilty to plotting to bomb the Nassau County Department of Social Services building and to a series of additional violent and financial crimes, Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly announced in a news release last month. James Luca, 47, was sentenced by Judge Terence Murphy to nine years in prison followed by five years of postrelease supervision. Luca pleaded guilty on June 2 to criminal possession of a weapon, a violent felony, and obstructing governmental duties by means of a bomb or explosive device, in connection with the attempted bombing of the NCDSS building last September. To resolve additional pending cases, Luca also pleaded guilty to criminal possession of a weapon in the first degree, as well as multiple counts of grand larceny, residential mortgage fraud, forgery, criminal possession of a forged instrument, identity theft and scheme to defraud. “James Luca is a dangerous man whose unhinged actions created panic at the Department of Social Services and terrorized public servants in our county,” Donnelly said in a statement. “This is not a man who should be free to walk our streets.” According to prosecutors, on Sept. 17, 2024, at about 1:42 a.m., Luca left his home on Van Nostrand Avenue in North Merrick and met a co-defendant on Warren Street about 10 minutes later. The pair drove to the NCDSS building at 60 Charles Lindbergh Blvd. While the co-defendant acted as a lookout, Luca placed a 20-pound propane tank and a 1-pound camping propane tank at the building’s doors, with a torch positioned on top. Surveillance video showed Luca attempting to ignite the device by throwing lit flares at it, but the

Herald file photo

The District Attorney’s office, led by District Attorney Anne Donnelly, announced the sentencing of a North Merrick man for plotting to bomb a county building. device failed to detonate, authorities said. The two men then drove back to East Meadow, abandoned the vehicle they used and switched to another car before returning to Luca’s home, prosecutors said. The device was discovered later that morning by the NCDSS director of investigations, who notified police. The Nassau County Police Department Arson and Bomb

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Squad, along with the Uniondale Fire Department and the Nassau County Fire Marshal’s Office, evacuated the building and secured the homemade bomb. Investigators later found another 20-pound propane tank near the scene and located the abandoned vehicle in East Meadow with additional road flares inside. Luca and his co-defendant were arrested on Oct. 3, 2024. Prosecutors said Luca also pleaded guilty to placing an explosive device on his ex-wife’s car at her North Merrick home in February 2023, detonating it and shattering the windshield, and to causing damage to her vehicle during a separate incident in January 2024. In addition, Luca admitted to carrying out a residential mortgage fraud and identity theft scheme in which he forged loan paperwork and a deed to steal property from a relative. After fraudulently transferring ownership of the home, he obtained a $410,000 mortgage, which later went into foreclosure due to nonpayment, leaving the relative with more than $600,000 in debt, authorities said. Prosecutors said Luca also opened personal and business American Express credit cards in the same relative’s name, accumulating more than $200,000 in unpaid charges. In a separate scheme, Luca impersonated another relative to fraudulently open PSEG Long Island utility accounts at three East Meadow properties, including his own home. The attempted bombing case was prosecuted by Deputy Bureau Chief Lee Genser of the Narcotics, Firearms and Gangs Bureau. The financial fraud cases were handled by Senior Investigative Counsel Heidi Bausk of the Major Financial Frauds Bureau. Additional cases were prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Julia Iacono of the County Court Trial Bureau. Luca was represented by defense attorney Brian Griffin.

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BELLMORE HERALD — January 1, 2026

By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ

$100K to Island Harvest to fight hunger year-round

January 1, 2026 — BELLMORE HERALD

where their next meal comes from.” David Lyons, interim president and chief operating officer at PSEG Long While the surge of generosity that Island said the company has long partmarks the holiday season fades once the nered with Island Harvest to collect, decorations come down, the need facing sort and distribute meals to Long food banks and families struggling to Islanders facing food insecurity. “We have seen first-hand the good make ends meet continues year-round — a reality prompting renewed invest- work Island Harvest has done, and we are thrilled that the PSEG ment from organizations seeking to sustain that supFoundation is ensuring that port well beyond winter. even more good can be done Addressing that need, through this $100,000 last month, PSEG Foundagrant,” he said in a Decemtion, a nonprofit supported ber release. and funded by PSEG, Calvin Ledford Jr., presiannounced $1.5 million in dent of the PSEG Foundagrants to more than 25 comtion, said its work extends munity organizations that beyond providing clean and provide critical assistance reliable energ y to Long to households facing ecoIslanders. nomic hardship, including a “During times of eco$100,000 award to Island nomic challenges and hardHarvest, a longtime commuship, these collaborations nity partner of PSEG Long allow us to deliver meaningIsland, a major electricity ful solutions that directly provider for the region. benefit families,” he said. The funding is part of “We are deeply grateful for the foundation’s Communieach of our partners and for ty Relief Initiative, a yearthe impact these initiatives long effort designed to bolwill have in helping local ster food banks and social CALViN LEDfORD JR. communities access the s e r v i c e o r g a n i z a t i o n s President of the PSEG critical resources needed to through a multif aceted Foundation s t ay s a f e, h e a l t hy, a n d approach. The initiative secure.” also reflects the founda“On behalf of the 240,000 tion’s commitment to affordability and people we serve who face food insecuricommunity well-being, while reinforc- ty and uncertainty of when their next ing the volunteer efforts of employees at meal will come, we are incredibly gratePSEG Long Island. ful to direct the PSEG Foundation grant Island Harvest Food Bank is a lead- to our Hunger Relief Action Fund,” ing hunger-relief organization with a Shubin Dresner said. “The strong, longmission to end hunger and reduce food term partnership we have with PSEG waste on Long Island. The organization Long Island and the PSEG Foundation boasts food and product collection and continues to make a positive impact on distribution systems, hunger awareness the lives of Long Islanders.” and education programs, a Workforce Skills Development Institute, as well as targeted services for specific populations, outreach activities, and advocacy initiatives. Its work supports a wide network of community-based nonprofits, as well as individuals, families, and seniors in need. At an event in 2024 in Nassau County’s headquarters in Mineola, Randi Shubin Dresner, the president and chief executive of Island Harvest, and a former East Meadow Herald Person of the Year, explained that even though Nassau County has some of the wealthiest residents living within its zip codes, Island Harvest helps more than 100,000 neighbors in need. Annual distribution efforts have topped 10 million pounds in Nassau County. Many neighbors in need who receive food from Island Harvest are working, sometimes multiple jobs, to make ends need. As the holidays come to a close, the “We’re on the side of action,” Shubin Dresner said of Island Harvest’s efforts. need for food banks persists. “We are providing support, and impor- Organizations like Island Harvest serve tantly, we’re providing 10 million over 100,000 Long Islanders, distributing pounds of food so we can be sure that upwards of 10 million pounds of food our neighbors don’t have to worry about annually.

By JORDAN VALLONE

jvallone@liherald.com

Courtesy PSEG

Island Harvest Food Bank received a $100,000 donation from the PSEG Foundation, a nonprofit that is supported and funded by PSEG, a major utility provider in the Long Island region. Randi Shubin Dresner, president of Island Harvest with David Lyons, interim president of Island Harvest.

Public Notices

LBEL1 0101

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court County of Nassau Bank of America, N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST Mario Colagrande, et al, Defendant Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on March 28, 2018, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, North sides of the steps, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 20, 2026 at 3:00 PM premises known as 2548 Columbus Avenue, North Bellmore, NY 11710 A/K/A Bellmore, NY 11710. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the County of Nassau, State of New York, SECTION: 51, BLOCK: 523, LOT: 34. Approximate amount of judgment is $538,029.40 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 006084/2013. Ralph Madalena, Referee FRENKEL LAMBERT WEISS WEISMAN & GORDON LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-045119-F00 88156 157292

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK INDEX NO. 616232/2025 COUNTY OF NASSAU __________________ MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. TIMOTHY J. MAHER, if

living, and if she/he be dead, 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; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Defendants. Plaintiff designates NASSAU as the place of trial situs of the real property SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Mortgaged Premises: 1564 DEWEY AVENUE,

NORTH BELLMORE, NY 11710 Section: 56, Block: 459, Lot: 21 __________________ 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 ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $562,500.00 and interest, recorded on June 28, 2011, in Book M 36152 at Page 678, of the Public Records of NASSAU County, New York., covering premises known as 1564 DEWEY AVENUE, NORTH BELLMORE, NY 11710. 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: December 3rd, 2025 ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff Matthew Rothstein, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675 157275 PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com

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Positions available in Nassau and Suffolk Counties Apply At: www.educationalbusjobs.com/ EOE EMPLOYMENT Help Wanted

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE Full Time/Part Time Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multi-task, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $17 per hour to $20 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: circulationassociate@liherald.com

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time Positions Available! Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239 One phone call, one order, one heck of a good price to run your ad in any state, or across the country.

Call the

USA Classified Network today!

1-800-231-6152

(Salary is $17.00 per hour)

EDITOR/REPORTER

Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. H i s t o r i c a l l y, r e p o r t e r s w h o h ave launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT Inside Sales Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $35,360 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

Classifieds All for an amazing price! Your add will run until you sell your vehicle. Just call one of our expert classified account executives today and you will be on your way to making a great deal on your set of wheels!

516-569-4000 press 5, then 2

OIL DELIVERY DRIVER NEEDED P/T-F/T, Weekdays/ Weekends/ And Nights. Experienced Only. Twic Card A Plus. Spanish Speaking A Plus. 631-264-8800

OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $35,360 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250 PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

Why Not Print

choose

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• Eco friendly facility • Environmentally safe soy based inks • Recycled paper • Help reduce the carbon footprint

Call Lou today at 516-569-4000 ext 223

Open the door to a bright future! Check the

Job listings today!

516-569-4000 Press 5

BELLMORE HERALD — January 1, 2026

HERALD

January 1, 2026 — HERALD

S2 01/01

Homes

HERALD

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

HOME OF THE WEEK

• To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

Merrick

Charming Expanded Cape Cod

Sidewalks, fences and property lines don’t always line up Q. I keep going back and forth, literally, from my plans to my yard, because we’re putting on an addition, which I wanted to be bigger, but I also want to avoid a zoning variance. I understand that a variance would add time and money to the whole process, and if it can be avoided, that’s what I want. But my property looks bigger in every direction from where the addition will go, and I don’t understand why. I used my survey and carefully measured to my sidewalk and fences, and the distances are much more than the survey shows. Should I get another survey? Do you ever see this, and can you explain whether I’m doing something wrong to get the distances? A. From your description, the only thing you may be doing wrong is assuming that the sidewalks and fences are actually boundaries when they probably aren’t. It’s good to avoid the zoning variance process whenever possible, since the request to vary from the zoning regulations is supposed to be reserved for proposed work only when onte eeper there’s a practical problem in resolving the design and/or when there isn’t a better alternative. Unfortunately, the location of many properties isn’t uniform to sidewalks and streets. In other words, the sidewalk is often not a property boundary, but is set back a uniform distance from the street and is a uniform width parallel to the street. The original property line may be inches or even feet farther away from the sidewalk or street, and not right at the edge of the sidewalk. Sure, you take care of that lawn and assume it’s yours, but, in truth, it often isn’t your property, but instead is part of the street right-of-way. When it comes to fences, most often a fence company needs to get in, get out and get paid. As a result, the fence may be in the right place, but probably not. I’m very impressed when people show me the fence permit their new fence received from a responsible fence company, mainly because I rarely see those permits and, instead, we get bogged down with applying for the fence permit when called to do a much larger project. I rarely see a survey where the fences are placed directly on the property line, which is where they’re supposed to be. Instead the fence line meanders off the property line in one direction or the other because nobody wanted to spend money or take the time to have the property line accurately staked by a surveyor. So what you may be measuring is possibly off your property line, giving you misleading information. What should be done is to confirm, with a stakeout, the location of the property lines to determine the location of your proposed addition. You could also ask to have the property staked to know if other fences are correctly placed, and include locating the new addition. Good luck!

Ask The Architect

harming expanded 4-bedroom Cape with modern updates and prime location. This beautifully maintained expanded Cape offers a spacious and inviting layout perfect for both relaxing and entertaining. Step inside to a bright and airy living room, featuring hardwood floors and plenty of space for family gatherings. The dining area is ideal for both casual meals and formal dinners and flows seamlessly into the renovated kitchen. The kitchen is a highlight, featuring stainless steel appliances, sleek granite countertops, modern cabinetry, and recessed lighting. A door off the kitchen leads to the large backyard, a fantastic space for outdoor entertainment and summer BBQs. The first floor includes two generous bedrooms with ample closet space and a stylishly updated full bathroom. Upstairs you'll find two more large bedrooms, both with great closet storage, along with another fully renovated bathroom. The full unfinished basement offers endless potential use as additional living space for a home gym or storage with the convenience of an on-site washer/dryer. The exterior is just as appealing with well-maintained landscaping, a charming attached 1-car garage and a paver and cement driveway that adds to the home’s curb appeal. In addition, the house is equipped with a generator. Perfectly situated close to transportation, schools, and shopping, this home offers both comfort and convenience. With its combination of classic Cape Cod charm and modern updates, this home is move-in ready and waiting for you to make it your own. Asking $779,000.

Rent Your Apartment

REAL ESTATE Real Estate WE BUY HOUSES for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-888-704-5670

EDITH TESAR Real Estate Salesperson M: 516-382-2075 Denise Azzato Real Estate Sales Person M: 516-644-3929 CB American Homes 493 Atlantic Avenue, Oceanside P: 516-223-2525

through the Herald and PrimeTime Classified section. Call us for our great *specials. 516-5694000, press 5 for Classified Dept. *(private party only)

Helping you find a HOME or sell a HOME … a place to call your own. Suburb or country, house, condo, townhouse or apartment, our Classifieds can help you find a HOME that fits your style, your budget and Real Estate needs... it’s a MUST SEE!

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Your Hometown Newspaper

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© 2025 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.

S3 01/01

Market Place • •

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

HERALD — January 1, 2026

HERALD

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

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To Advertise On This Page

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JOBS, MERCHANDISE, REAL ESTATE & MORE... JOBS, MERCHANDISE, It’s in the Herald Classifieds... REAL ESTATE & MORE... Call 516-569-4000 JOBS,To Advertise MERCHANDISE, REAL ESTATE & MORE... JOBS, MERCHANDISE, REAL ESTATE & MORE... press 5

January 1, 2026 — BELLMORE HERALD

HERALD

Stuff

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5 ANNOUNCEMENTS

Finds Under $100

Announcements

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S4 01/01

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• To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5 • To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5 Home Improvement

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NEED A CAR? Find it in the HERALD Classifieds.

Answers to todAy’s puzzle

opinions

very new year brings with it the anticipation of what might be. Leaving 2025 and all its tumult and drama in our rearview mirror, Long Islanders, New Yorkers and Americans enter 2026 with hope, anticipation … and some concern. On a positive note, the economy appears to have stabilized, and might even be ready to take off. Inflation has slowed and gas prices are down. All is not perfect, of course. Too many basic food products still pETER have high prices, KinG and there is the specter of artificial intelligence and what impact it will have on the economy and our lives. But at least for the short run, the signs are positive for solid growth and an overall good economy for Nassau and Suffolk. New York City, though, could be another story, and difficulties in the Big Apple necessarily carry the risk of bleeding over into Nassau County. This isn’t a partisan screed, but with its first election ever of an avowed democratic

socialist mayor, the city has raised the stakes. Will Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s economic policies drive businesses — businesses that employ many Long Islanders! — out of New York? Will his proposals to curtail police activity cause an increase in crime and a concomitant increase in cross-border crime? All this will be part of the statewide gubernatorial campaign, which will have Long Island at its epicenter, with County Executive Bruce Blakeman carrying the Republican banner against incumbent Gov. Kathy Hochul. This race will not only have a focus on the Mamdani factor, but will be run against the competing backdrops of the progressive hold on the Democratic Party and the favorable/unfavorable ratio of President Trump’s policies on Long Island and New York. It could well be a campaign for the history books, with Long Island dominating the prologue, the chapters and the conclusion. On a somewhat lighter note, how will our sports teams do? Can the Yankees escape the doldrums of early postseason playoff exits? Will the Mets overcome the loss of core players and fan favorites

Pete Alonso and Brandon Nimmo, and baseball’s star closer, Edwin Diaz, to recapture the magic of the 2024 season? Back to serious matters: 2026 will marks the 250th anniversary of the American experiment, which has seen the United States emerge as the world’s beacon for freedom and liberty, and the most prosperous and powerful military force in the history of the world. With that power and prosperity has come responsibility beyond our borders, manifested dramatically in assisting our European allies in World War I; crushing Hitler and Nazism in World War II; and forging NATO and other alliances with democratic allies to lead the free world through the long struggle of the Cold War to defeat Soviet imperialism and bring down the prison of the Iron Curtain to free the captive nations of Eastern Europe. This was followed, of course, by America’s heroic response to the horrific attacks of Sept. 11, and its coordination of the larger response of the civilized world to Islamist terrorism — particularly its main components, Al Qaeda and ISIS. That struggle isn’t entirely

ong Island looks likely to be the epicenter of the gubernatorial campaign.

over, and we can never take our foot off their throats, but the forces of terrorism have definitely been subdued. My concern now, as we begin 2026, is whether America is in danger of abdicating its position of world leadership and returning to the failed America First isolationist policies of the 1930s, which led us to retreat within our borders and refuse to assist European democracies in the climactic struggle against Hitler and Nazism until it was almost too late. We can’t be weakening western alliances like NATO or in any way enabling resurgent despots like Russian President Vladimir Putin. In deciding what aid to provide countries like Ukraine that are courageously resisting brutal Russian aggression, we must not once again make the isolationist mistake of focusing on the cost of everything and the value of nothing. Forgetting the cruel lessons of the past could only force us to relive them. America’s history is a proud one. It’s my hope that 2026 will see the rekindling and strengthening of the flame of freedom that has burned so brightly since 1776, and the love of liberty that has fueled it. Happy New Year! Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.

For President Trump, too many missed opportunities

hen you reach the stage in life that I have, you’ve seen politicians come and go. I have seen overly aggressive pols flame out because they thought they knew everything, and it turned out they knew nothing. I have seen brilliant political people crash and burn because they thought their secrets would never be uncovered. And I have watched Donald Trump go through more ups and downs than any political figure I can recall. When Trump JERRY took the oath of office last JanuKREMER ary, I wondered whether he was aware of the many opportunities a president has to create a lasting, positive legacy. Now that he has been in office for a year, I’m taking a look back at his actions, which I will try to keep as fair and balanced as possible, considering that I’m a Democrat. I have known the president in ways other than having interacted with him

as officeholder. I have been one of his many lawyers over a long period, so I’ve had an up-close view of him in the many roles he has played. I’ve watched him in action, and have some knowledge of how he views the outside world and people in general. So I temper my comments with the knowledge of a man who went from master builder to commander in chief. As hard as I try to single out the positive things Trump has done, I must start by saying that his time in office up to now is a long period of missed opportunities. He came into office with a chance to make the Republican Party one of the strongest parties in American history. Instead it faces a potential electoral disaster this coming November. The results of many contests last November prove that the 2026 elections will be a real challenge for the party of Abraham Lincoln. I agree with many of my friends who are Trump supporters that he has successfully closed the border to new entrants, keeping his election promise to do just that. Sadly, President Biden

caved in to the progressive wing of the Democratic Party and allowed an estimated 11 million immigrants into our country. There is a mechanism for people to enter the country, but it was badly abused under Biden. America has always been the beacon of hope for people throughout the world, but Trump’s current immigration policy is a disaster, because it keeps out much of the professional talent that we badly need. Setting the immigration quota at 7,500 people, with a preference given to white South Africans, makes no sense. Silicon Valley executives will find a way to get the talent they need, but a brilliant researcher from, say, Sri Lanka who wants to work at a hospital specializing in cancer treatment will be blocked from coming here unless his or her potential employer wants to spend a million dollars. We can all agree that there is too much waste in government at all levels. There is a need for careful analysis of needed jobs, and then those that aren’t needed should be eliminated. Regrettably, that didn’t happen in Washington.

nd as a result, the GOP faces a potential electoral disaster in November.

Elon Musk took on the assignment of cleaning house, and used his buzz saw to cut alleged waste. More than 160,000 people lost their jobs, but many in Washington tell me that many badly needed personnel got the ax. As of now, not one person kicked out of their job has been prosecuted for “fraud or abuse.” During his 2024 campaign, Trump promised that his focus would be on cutting costs for the average American. You can call it a “Democratic hoax” or whatever you want, but millions of Americans are hurting from crushing prices, and there is nothing on the horizon that will change that. Lots of readers will weigh in on the pros and cons that I haven’t mentioned, but I don’t have the space to recite them all. The recent remarks of an Indiana Republican state senator struck a chord in my mind. She said she was a Trump supporter, “but I don’t like his tone.” 2025 was a year when he could have set a positive tone for America that could have helped heal our great divide. That was his biggest missed opportunity. Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. Comments about this column? jkremer@ liherald.com.

BELLMORE HERALD — January 1, 2026

We’re all wondering what the new year will bring

Herald editorial

Bellmore

January 1, 2026 — BELLMORE HERALD

HERALD and Bellmore Herald News Established 1994 Incorporating the Bellmore Life in 2013

Hernesto Galdamez Editor robert CumminGs Multi Media Marketing Consultant offiCe 2 Endo Boulevard Garden City, NY 11530 Phone: (516) 569-4000 Fax: (516) 569-4942 Web: www.liherald.com E-mail: belleditor@liherald.com Copyright © 2026s Richner Communications, Inc.

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

Cliff Richner Publisher, 1982-2018 Robert Richner Edith Richner Publishers, 1964-1987 ■ stuart riCHner Publisher ■ Jeffrey bessen

Managing Editor Jordan Vallone

Deputy Managing Editor Jim Harmon

Copy Editor Karen bloom Features/Special Sections Editor tony bellissimo Sports Editor tim baKer Photo Editor ■ rHonda GliCKman Vice President - Sales amy amato Executive Director of Corporate Relations and Events lori berGer Sales Director ellen reynolds Classified / Inside Sales Director

■

Jeffrey neGrin Creative Director

robin Carter Art Director CraiG Cardone Production Coordinator ■

dianne ramdass Circulation Director

Before the flu bug bites, get the shot

ew York is heading into the heart of winter with warning lights flashing across its health care system. Based on figures provided by Northwell, influenza cases typically increase by 30 percent every flu season, but since Thanksgiving, flu hospitalizations statewide have surged by 75 percent, and cases of the flu, respiratory syncytial virus and Covid-19 are all rising together. Emergency rooms and urgent care centers are busier by the week, hospitals are operating above normal capacity and the seasonal wave has not yet crested. This convergence of viruses is more than a troubling trend line; it is a clear signal that now is the time for decisive action, starting with getting the flu shot. There were 71,123 documented flu cases in New York state as of Dec. 20, according to the State Department of Health. Northwell usually has upward of 3,000 patients in its hospital beds, but as of Dec. 18, there were 3,500, and roughly 10 percent were flu-related cases. Hospitals are accustomed to being busy in the winter, but this season is proving especially challenging. Patient counts have already exceeded typical levels, with flu accounting for a meaningful share of admissions. The virus is spreading rapidly in our communities, and the curve continues to climb. Historically, influenza remains active through March and even April, meaning the strain on hospitals and health care workers could persist for months. When capacity is stretched, delays and disruptions affect everyone, not just those sick with respiratory viruses.

■

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letters Randi summed up my thinking perfectly To the Editor: I was so happy to read Randi Kreiss’s opinion of the state in which our country finds itself (“The sun rises and sets; the rest is up for grabs,” Dec. 18-24). I have been in a state of depression since the man elected president took office for the second time. Why someone who did not do a good job the first time was elected a second time I will never understand. Some of my family members are suffering. My grandson is attending Brown, and was taking a final exam at the time the murderer was attacking hardworking students preparing for a final. My son is moving off Long Island because he can no longer afford to live here. Violence seems to be tolerated, and sometimes encouraged, and affordable living is not possible for the average worker.

The flu vaccine is one of the most reliable tools available to blunt this impact. While it may not prevent every infection, it significantly reduces the severity of illness. Vaccinated people who do get the flu are far less likely to develop dangerous complications such as pneumonia, respiratory failure and heart problems or to exacerbate chronic diseases. These complications are what drive hospitalizations and deaths, particularly among older adults, young children and people with underlying medical conditions. The stakes are high. Each year, influenza kills tens of thousands of people nationwide, and pediatric deaths from the flu remain a devastating reality. Yet vaccination rates remain lower than they should be, in part because of lingering misinformation and the false belief that it is too late once winter arrives. While early fall is the ideal time to get vaccinated, protection at any point in the season is better than none. The flu virus doesn’t follow a fixed calendar, and immunity gained today can still make the difference between a mild illness at home and a dangerous hospitalization weeks from now. With the virus expected to circulate well into spring, delaying vaccination only increases risk. Laboratory data underscore the urgency. Testing volumes for flu, RSV and Covid have surged as all three viruses spread simultaneously. Because symptoms often look alike, many people underestimate or misidentify what they have, potentially exposing others and delaying care. Rapid molecular tests that check for all three viruses now allow for

faster, more accurate diagnoses, helping people take appropriate precautions and seek timely treatment. Children are feeling the impact as well, with flu widespread in the pediatric population. New preventive options for RSV are helping protect infants, but vaccination remains the best way to keep children in school and out of the hospital. Conflicting guidance and pandemic fatigue have made decision-making harder for families, which makes clear, consistent prevention strategies all the more important. And vaccination should not stand alone. Simple, practical steps can further reduce risk. Frequent hand washing remains one of the most effective ways to limit transmission. Wearing a mask in crowded indoor settings can add another layer of protection, especially for those at higher risk. Opening windows when possible or using air purifiers helps reduce the concentration of viruses indoors. Disinfecting high-touch surfaces such as phones, doorknobs and countertops is important, too, because the flu virus can linger on hard surfaces for more than a day. The flu shot isn’t just about individual protection; it’s about community responsibility. As flu, RSV and Covid continue to circulate together, the choice to get vaccinated is one of the simplest and most effective steps people can take to protect not only themselves, but also their vulnerable neighbors. Before the flu bug bites, getting the shot — available at doctors’ offices, pharmacies and urgent care centers — can help ensure that this winter is defined by prevention rather than crisis.

opinions

fter the hustle and bustle of the holidays, I urge you to slow down. Not so much to smell the roses, but rather, from a practical standpoint, to be vigilant against people who could do you harm. Scammers count on us being distracted and easily worried. This is especially true around the holiday season. Fraudsters aim to take advantage of us by getting us to take some action that we wouldn’t have if we knew who they really were. Each year, mileLAine lions of Americans — including phiLLips thousands of Nassau County residents — are affected by scams. According to a recent survey by AARP, about 41 percent of adult Americans — roughly 110 million people — report that they have had money stolen through fraud or misuse of sensitive information. In terms of monetary losses, the impact is staggering. The Federal Trade Commission reported that in 2024, consumers lost over $12.5 billion to fraud

Letters We are living in an upside-down world. Thank you, Randi, for putting into words my feelings for what we are living with today. My hope is that we survive for the next three years.

and scams — a 25 percent increase over 2023. A broader report from AARP estimated that identity fraud and scams cost U.S. adults a combined $47 billion in 2024. No matter how you look at it, it’s a major problem. According to a 2023 report by the FBI, more than 3,000 scams were reported across Long Island in 2023, the most recent year for which data is available. Nassau County residents lost about $73.9 million. These numbers almost certainly understate the true impact. Many scams go unreported, and not all losses are captured by official reporting systems. As such, the real number of people harmed and the total financial loss is likely even higher. All year round, I offer scam prevention workshops to Nassau County residents, and I would like to share these practical and easy tips with you:

your bank, a government agency or credit company, don’t assume this to be true. Hang up and call the toll-free number on the back of your bank/credit/ membership card or a recent statement and ask if there is a problem with your account.

et suspicious calls go to voicemail, and then research and verify.

■ Do not answer calls from unknown numbers, or callers not in your contacts list. If it’s important, they will leave a message. ■ If you do answer, and the caller (or text message or email) claims to be from

■ Don’t click on links in text messages or emails from unknown senders. They can install malware on your device or take you to harmful websites. ■ Nothing is free. If a caller tells you that you have won a prize but you have to pay a fee to claim it, hang up. It’s a scam.

■ Never send funds — cash, a check, gift cards or wire transfers — to anyone you are not 100 percent sure of. Never. ■ Great investments don’t come in from random strangers. If someone pitches you an investment that sounds too good to be true — like a great guaranteed return — it’s probably a scam. Just because the caller sounds professional doesn’t mean they are legit. Fraudsters have trained actors making scam calls so they come across as trustworthy. They are trained to deceive you

FrAmework by Tim Baker

MARGARET LICATA East Meadow

‘My heart hurts for this country and the world’ To the Editor: I usually don’t respond, or even think about responding, to someone who has written in the paper, but Randi put into words my exact feelings about the world and the country today. Thank you. I feel the exact same way, and my heart hurts for this country and the world. I have two g randchildren and another one on the way, and I’m frightened for them, because they will never know the world that we knew. I hope Randi’s right, and that as the sun rises and sets, the world will turn and better people will come forward to restore America to itself. BETH STEIN North Bellmore

They were looking to the future at the Electric Light Parade – Long Beach

and to create a sense of urgency. Don’t be fooled. And don’t be embarrassed by your uncertainty. And above all, do not send money or give out personal information. There is no way to fully protecting yourself from being scammed, but you can use these simple tools to help. Slow down, let calls go to voicemail and then research and verify. Call a family member, friend or your local police precinct for help. Helpful phone numbers. If someone calls you claiming to be from the IRS, call the Treasury inspector general for tax administration, at (800) 366-4484. If someone calls you claiming to be from Social Security, call the SSA office of the inspector general, at (800) 2690271. If someone calls you claiming to be from Medicare, call Medicare customer service, at (800) MEDICARE (633-4227). If someone calls you soliciting a donation to a charity, call the New York State Charities Bureau, at (212) 416-8401. If you know of an organization that would be interested in a scam workshop, please contact my office at (516) 571-2386, or NCcomptroller@nassaucountyny.gov. Elaine Phillips is the Nassau County comptroller.

BELLMORE HERALD — January 1, 2026

Slow down and verify: tips to prevent getting scammed

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January 1, 2026 — BELLMORE HERALD