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Elmont couple putting a name to their charity Last month, the couple volunteered at a holiday giveaway h e l d at E l m o n t M e m o r i a l For the past six years, Library, where toys were disAmara Martin, 35 and her hus- tributed to local children. band, Kezley Martin, both have Elmont Cultural Center and lifted their community in Meera Empowerment hosted the event, which Elmont through also featured cuptheir philanthropic cakes, hot cocoa endeavors, completand crafts. ing their charitable The couple work without placdonated so many ing an official toys at the event name on it. But, that they couldn’t starting this year, give them all away, a l l o f t h at w i l l so the following change. day, they ran a mini Since they are toy drive out of well known in the their car at the Valarea for their philey Stream lanthropy, and KezWalmart. ley, also known as Their nonprofit DJ Arson, has will focus on helpestablished a signif- KEzlEY MARtIN ing those in family icant community founder, shelters, but as it presence with his Arson Cares expands, they are work as a DJ, they hoping to reach have decided to for- Foundation every community mally name their nonprofit, The Arson Cares member in need. The couple, life-long Elmont Foundation. “We decided we wanted to residents and Elmont Memorikee p everything familiar,” al High School g raduates, began their charity work in Amara said. “Because a lot of people know the name, they 2020 by combining car shows k n o w h i m , e s p e c i a l l y i n and toy drives. Kezley’s love for Elmont, so it kind of just ties cars is shared throughout the everything together.” Continued on page 7
By HAIlEY FUlMER
hfulmer@liherald.com
I
Tim Baker/Herald photos
Salvatore’s welcomes friends and family to eat dinner with Santa Families and friends gathered at Salvatore’s for a holiday-themed dinner with Santa Claus. On top, is Allison Saunders, Shemeka Fennell, Shelia Hooper, Tiffanie Robinson from Queens with Santa. Below, Jeremiah Rodriguez 4 months old from Franklin Square with Santa. Story, more photos, Page 3.
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FRANKLIN SQUARE/ELMONT HERALD — January 8, 2026 Courtesy Ponies Will Travel
Young girl is ready to take off in Santa’s Sleigh.
Families and friends meet Santa at Salvatore’s On December 11, families and friends join Santa at Salvatore’s in Elmont to celebrate the holiday season. Sweet moments were captured with friends and family as they gathered to take photos with Santa and enjoy delicious Italian. Some community members joined Santa Claus outside to capture their holiday spirit and festivites.
Salvatores Restaurant family - Vito Cortesiano, Salvatore Cortesiano 12, Pia Mariah Cortesiano 8 and Anna Cortesiano with Santa.
–Hailey Fulmer
Tim Baker/Herald photos
Liliana Guerva 3 from East Meadow is all smiles for the Christmas magic.
Best friends from Franklin Square Holly Hoefenkrieg 8, Pia Maria Cortesiano 8 and Isabella Jerez 8.
Twin sisters Jaiya Walker 6 and Jadah Walker from Springfield Gardens with Santa.
Be prepared before the next power outage.
News briefs D’Esposito, Labor Department watchdog
January 8, 2026 — FRANKLIN SQUARE/ELMONT HERALD
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Island Park resident and former U.S. pa g e following his confir mation, Rep. Anthony D’Esposito was confirmed D’Esposito wrote, “Thank you President by the U.S. Senate on Dec. 18 to serve as Donald J. Trump for your trust and leadinspector general for the federal Depart- ership.” ment of Labor. A former NYPD detective, D’Esposito D ’ E s p o s i t o ’ s n o m i n a t i o n w a s served in law enforcement for more advanced earlier this month than two decades before by the Senate Health, Educaentering politics. He later tion, Labor and Pensions held local elected positions Committee on a narrow, paras an Island Park fire comty-line vote of 12–11, before missioner and as a Town of receiving final confirmation Hempstead councilman. by the full Senate. During his single term in Despite his confirmation Congress, D’Esposito served to the oversight role, it is on the House Homeland widely understood in politiSecurity Committee, the cal circles that the former Committee on House AdminRepublican congressman is istration, and the Anthony D’Esposito expected to challenge DemoTransportation and Infracratic Rep. Laura Gillen of structure Committee. Rockville Centre in the 2026 election, As inspector general, D’Esposito will setting up a potential rematch in New be responsible for overseeing audits and York’s 4th Congressional District. investigations within the Department D’Esposito and Gillen have already of Labor, with a mandate to prevent faced off twice. D’Esposito defeated Gil- waste, fraud and abuse and ensure comlen in the 2022 election, flipping the pliance with federal laws protecting South Shore Nassau County district for workers and employers. He succeeds Republicans. Two years later, Gillen Larry Turner, who was dismissed shortreclaimed the seat, defeating D’Esposito ly after Trump took office. in the 2024 election. In a post on his official Facebook –Hernesto Galdamez
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Kwanzaa Celebration at Roosevelt Field Nassau County Legislator Olena Nicks (D – Uniondale) and the Social Action Ministry of Freeport-based Zion Cathedral Church of God in Christ partnered with the Nassau County Legislature’s Democratic Minority and an array of community leaders and sponsors to present a Kwanzaa celebration at Roosevelt Field on Wednesday, Dec. 31. The overflow crowd in attendance enjoyed a vibrant celebration of African American culture and heritage featuring drumming, African dance, and the lighting of a giant mosaic kinara. Legislator Nicks had the privilege of lighting the Umoja (Unity) candle, followed by Legislator Scott Davis (D – Rockville Centre), who lit the Kujichagulia (SelfDetermination) candle. As part of the
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program, Roosevelt’s Dr. Emily Moore was honored for her more than 50-year dedication to youth enrichment through her Alliance Junior Tennis program. “Since its inception, Kwanzaa has grown to become a joyous celebration of the unique African American heritage and a beacon of guiding principles that can uplift each of us well through the New Year,” Legislator Nicks said. “I was thrilled to partner with Zion Cathedral, Simon Properties and my colleagues in the Legislature’s Democratic Minority to host an event at Roosevelt Field that shines a bright light upon the richness of Nassau County’s cultural diversity.” –Hailey Fulmer
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MAIN PHONE: (516) 569-4000 ■ WEB SITE: www.liherald.com/franklinsquare or www.liherald.com/elmont ■ E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: fseditor@liherald.com ■ EDITORIAl DEPARTMENT: Ext. 282 E-mail: fseditor@liherald.com ■ SUBSCRIPTIONS: Press ”7” E-mail: subscriptions@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4942 ■ ClASSIFIED ADVERTISING: Ext. 286 E-mail: ereynolds@liherald.com Fax: (516) 622-7460 ■ DISPlAY ADVERTISING: Ext. 249 E-mail: rglickman@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4643 ■ PUBlIC NOTICES: Ext. 232 E-mail: legalnotices@liherald.com The Franklin Square/Elmont Herald USPS 017066, is published every Thursday by Richner Communications, Inc., 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Periodicals postage paid at Garden City, NY 11530 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster send address changes to Bellmore Herald or Merrick Herald, 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Newsstand Price: $1. Annual Subscription Rates, $52 per year auto-pay or $65 one-time payment within Nassau County or $76 outside of Nassau County. Copyright © 2026 Richner Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.
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FRANKLIN SQUARE/ELMONT HERALD — January 8, 2026
THANKS TO THE CONGESTION RELIEF PROGRAM, NEW YORK IS ON THE MOVE! One year of the congestion relief program means real results for Long Island. Commute times are down 22% from the LIE to the Queens-Midtown Tunnel— meaning less time wasted in traffic and more time back in your day. [SOURCE: Newsday, 8/6/25]
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spotlight athlete
HERALD SPORTS
Elmont’s Latiff beats buzzer, rival By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
juSTIN OrTIz Hewlett Senior Basketball ORTIZ ADDED HIS name to Hewlett boys’ basketballl lore Dec. 26 by becoming the eighth player in program history to reach 1,000 career points. He entered the game needing 27 for the milestone and accomplished the feat in the third quarter. A third-year starter with a pair of All-County seasons under his belt, Ortiz averaged 17 points per game as a sophomore and 18.8 last season with 63 threes to rank among Nassau’s leaders.
games to watch Thursday, Jan. 8 Girls Basketball: Carey at Sewanhaka............... 4:30 p.m. Boys Basketball: Sewanhaka at Carey .............. 4:30 p.m. Girls Basketball: Seaford at Lawrence............... 6:45 p.m. Girls Basketball: Plainedge at Kennedy............. 6:45 p.m. Girls Basketball: Calhoun at Long Beach .......... 6:45 p.m. Girls Basketball: Clarke at South Side .............. 6:45 p.m. Boys Basketball: South Side at Clarke .............. 6:45 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 9 Boys Basketball: V.S. South at V.S. North................ 5 p.m. Boys Basketball: Lawrence at Seaford ................... 5 p.m. Boys Basketball: Carle Place at West Hemp........... 5 p.m. Girls Basketball: Mineola at Lynbrook ............... 6:45 p.m. Girls Basketball: V.S. South at V.S. North ........... 6:45 p.m. Girls Basketball: Hicksville at Oceanside .......... 6:45 p.m. Boys Basketball: Island Trees at Malverne.............. 7 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 10 Boys Basketball: Division at Mepham .............11:45 a.m. Girls Basketball: Syosset at Baldwin ...............11:45 a.m. Girls Basketball: East Meadow at F-Dale ........11:45 a.m. Girls Basketball: Freeport at V.S. Central .........11:45 a.m. Boys Basketball: Uniondale at Massapequa .......... 1 p.m. Boys Basketball: Baldwin at Oceanside ................. 1 p.m.
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete” High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a winter sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
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Elmont led by nine points in the first half but trailed Sewanhaka by as many as five in the fourth quarter of a wild Nassau Conference AA-3 girls’ basketball battle that was seconds away from overtime Dec. 16. But Kayla Latiff made sure the neighborhood rivalry was settled in regulation. The senior point guard swished a three-pointer from the corner with 1.6 seconds remaining to lift the Spartans to a 47-44 road victory. The winning shot, which came moments after Sewanhaka senior Lilah Lopez banked home a tying trey over the outstretched Latiff, capped a frantic back-and-forth final quarter. “It felt good when I released it,” Latiff said of the winning basket. “I took a lot of shots today. I missed some and made some. I’m so glad that last one went in. It was exciting.” Latiff finished with a team-high 18 points and eighth-grader Laila Edwards added 8 for Elmont, which bounced back from a conference-opening defeat to South Side. “Whenever we play Sewanhaka, there’s always a lot of energy but also a lot of nervousness,” Elmont head coach Pete Lawson said. “I never know what to expect in the first half and today was a little sloppy. Once we got the nerves out, we played much better.” Lopez poured in a game-high 19 points and junior Lexi Stewart added 14 for Sewanhaka, which played without sophomore center Gabby Brown due to illness. Stewart hit for 26 in its conference-opening victory over Clarke. “My hat is off to number 12 [Latiff] for hitting a humungous shot moments after Lilah hit a big shot to tie it,” Sewanhaka head coach Alex Soupios said. “We got some good performances to build off. Five threes by Lilah in the second half; [senior point guard] Temia Williams is just a warrior for us. And some young kids gave us solid minutes.” A slow opening quarter ended with
Derrick Dingle/Herald
Kayla Latiff, center, had 19 points including a late game-winning shot in Elmont’s 47-44 victory over Sewanhaka Dec. 16. the Spartans leading 8-6. Junior Louis Desir Jeane gave the visitors the largest lead for either team at 17-8 midway through the second with a layup before the Ravens clawed back. Stewart’s trey just before the halftime buzzer cut the margin to 19-15. Both offenses started to click in the third quarter and the teams combined for 29 points after totaling just 34 through the first 16 minutes. Eight of Latiff ’s points came in the third and sophomore Essence Saunds, who had a strong game in the paint with 14 rebounds, added four of her six points as Elmont increased its lead to
31-25 before Sewanhaka exploded for 15 of the next 19 to surge ahead 40-35 midway through the fourth. Eighth-grader Lacey Lopez, Lilah’s younger sister, capped the third with a basket and Lilah opened the fourth with back-to-back threes. Stewart had six points during the run, but Latiff had the final say. “Kayla has ice water in her veins,” Lawson said of Latiff. “She’s been on varsity three years now and is no stranger to taking big shots. I encourage her to shoot and be aggressive.” The teams meet again Jan. 27 at Elmont at 4:30 p.m.
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January 8, 2026 — FRANKLIN SQUARE/ELMONT HERALD
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Elmont couples’ new foundation aims to help
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FRANKLIN SQUARE/ELMONT HERALD — January 8, 2026
Continued from page 1
community during his Toys and Cars drives where community members are welcome to bring unopened toys to donate. In the midst of the global pandemic, the couple brought light to the community during an unprecedented dark time. That was just the beginning of their journey, which has continued on six years later, officially formalizing their nonprofit. In addition to toy drives, Amara would like to explore other charitable events throughout the year, such as back to school and turkey drives. “I really would like to do actual turkeys, and then like fresh produce and stuff like that to give them a full Thanksgiving meal,” Amara explained. “I have big plans.” Lavern Butler, co-founder of MBFNI, or My Best Friend Ni, also based in Elmont, has been partnering with the couple for the past three years. MBFNI provides photo booth and luxury venue services, but also does not shy away from giving back to the community. “We also have the same passion for pouring into the next generation,” Butler remarked. “Just like how we’ve been poured into as well. So that’s something we both find important.” Kezley, who DJs at weddings and school events in the Elmont area, added,
Photos courtesy Amara Martin
toys and other donations were handed out to families to spread some festive cheer during the holiday season. “I am very into cars.” He added that his love of cars transformed into something more, which led to the official naming of his nonprofit. “It’s like, wow, the giveback part is literally the best feeling ever,” he said. “So now it’s like that, it just became my whole focus.” DJ Arson has remained a familiar
face in the community. His first event as a DJ took place in the sixth grade after he was given an opportunity to perform for an intercultural night at Elmont. From there, his work took off as he continued pursuing gigs as a student for other school-wide events. Alongside her husband, Amara
amara martin and her husband, dJ arson, were all smiles for a holiday charity event. remains ambitious about their dreams and what they could accomplish in the Elmont community with their nonprofit, which officially will come to life in 2026. “I want to be able to help everybody,” she said. “So whatever that may be and however that may look, is what we’re trying to accomplish.”
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$100K to Island Harvest to fight hunger Beyond the holidays, hunger persists for Long Islanders faceted approach. The initiative also reflects the foundation’s commitment to affordability and community well-being, While the surge of generosity that while reinforcing the volunteer efforts marks the holiday season fades once the of employees at PSEG Long Island. I s l a n d H a r ve s t Fo o d decorations come down, the Bank is a leading hungerneed facing food banks and relief organization with a families struggling to make mission to end hunger and ends meet continues yearreduce food waste on Long round — a reality promptIsland. The organization ing renewed investment boasts food and product colfrom organizations seeking lection and distribution systo sustain that support well tems, hunger awareness and beyond winter. e d u c at i o n p ro g r a m s, a Addressing that need, Workforce Skills Developlast month, PSEG Foundament Institute, as well as tion, a nonprofit supported targeted services for specifand funded by PSEG, ic populations, outreach announced $1.5 million in activities, and advocacy inigrants to more than 25 comtiatives. Its work supports a munity organizations that wide network of communiprovide critical assistance ty-based nonprofits, as well to households facing ecoas individuals, families, and nomic hardship, including a seniors in need. $100,000 award to Island At an event in 2024 in Harvest, a longtime community partner of PSEG Long CALViN LEDfORD JR. Nassau County’s headquarters in Mineola, Randi ShuIsland, a major electricity President, bin Dresner, the president provider for the region. PSEG Foundation and chief executive of The funding is part of the Island Harvest, and a forfoundation’s Community Relief Initiative, a year-long effort mer East Meadow Herald Person of the designed to bolster food banks and social Year, explained that even though Nassau service organizations through a multi- County has some of the wealthiest resi-
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dents 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. “We’re on the side of action,” Shubin Dresner said of Island Harvest’s efforts. “We are providing support, and importantly, we’re providing 10 million pounds of food so we can be sure that our neighbors don’t have to worry about where their next meal comes from.” David Lyons, interim president and chief operating officer at PSEG Long Island said the company has long partnered with Island Harvest to collect, sort and distribute meals to Long Islanders facing food insecurity. “We have seen first-hand the good work Island Harvest has done, and we are thrilled that the PSEG Foundation is ensuring that even more good can be
done through this $100,000 grant,” he said in a December release. Calvin Ledford Jr., president of the PSEG Foundation, said its work extends beyond providing clean and reliable energy to Long Islanders. “During times of economic challenges and hardship, these collaborations allow us to deliver meaningful solutions that directly benefit families,” he said. “We are deeply grateful for each of our partners and for the impact these initiatives will have in helping local communities access the critical resources needed to stay safe, healthy, and secure.” “On behalf of the 240,000 people we serve who face food insecurity and uncertainty of when their next meal will come, we are incredibly grateful to direct the PSEG Foundation grant to our Hunger Relief Action Fund,” Shubin Dresner said. “The strong, longterm partnership we have with PSEG Long Island and the PSEG Foundation continues to make a positive impact on the lives of Long Islanders.”
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Your HealtH and Wellness — with a focus on neW You for tHe neW Year
By Francesca Coltrera A veritable avalanche of influencers, news headlines, and well-meaning friends and family offer conflicting advice on wellness. If you’re overwhelmed by fads and hype around wellness, read on. Dr. Wynne Armand, a primary care physician at Harvard-affiliated Mass General Brigham health care, recommends simple habits to boost health and wellness in everyday life. Quick fixes and fads may do little for our health, and some even prove harmful. Try to work healthy habits into your daily routines. If you’re a parent, sharing and modeling them can help children and teens embrace wellness, too. Bring mindfulness into your day Mindfulness and meditation are overlapping techniques proven to ease stress, improve sleep, and enhance concentration. “Anxiety and stress are very common issues in my practice,” says Armand. Worrying too often about the past or future is rarely helpful. The too-frequent release of stress hormones affects our heart, brain, and sleep, all of which have downstream consequences for our health. Practicing mindfulness — whether simply by appreciating birds and plants on a walk in green space, or using apps like Calm and Headspace — anchors you in the present moment. This can calm anxiety, improve focus and concentration, and amp up positive feelings. When applied to eating, mindfulness may help with weight loss by encouraging people to slow down to savor meals. Meditation knits together body and mind by focusing
on sensations, such as breathing, images, or a repeated word or phrase. One exercise that works equally well for adults and younger people is box breathing. The rhythmic pattern of breathing helps regulate the nervous system, reining in anxiety and stress, lowering heart rate and blood pressure, and boosting focus. The rhythmic pattern of breathing helps regulate the nervous system, reining in anxiety and stress, lowering heart rate and blood pressure, and boosting focus. Prioritize sleep Sleeping poorly can leave you feeling awful — snappish, foggy-headed, slow moving — and take a toll on your health over time. By contrast, getting sufficient, restful sleep supports the immune system, helps control weight, and aids physical well-being, mental well-being, memory, judgment,
Eat real, whole foods A wealth of evidence shows that diets rich in vegetables, fruits, legumes and pulses like lentils, peas, and beans, and minimally processed foods support longevity and vitality. Plant-based and plant-forward diets are better for our health: research links them to lower rates of heart disease, certain cancers, and chronic illnesses like diabetes and obesity. They’re better for the planet, too. Move more, sit less The hurry of life often short-circuits opportunities to be active. So, swap out the thought “What saves me time?” for a healthier one: “What keeps me mobile, flexible, and functioning well within my world?” Polishing off exercise requirements through a 30-minute block once daily is great, but you may reap even greater health benefits if you seek out ways to stay active throughout the day. Photo: Adopting a healthier way of life moves us beyond quick fixes and fads
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Timeless habits for better health
and other cognitive functions. It may even extend longevity. But how much sleep do you need? That varies with age and other factors: most adults need at least seven hours per night, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, sleep quality (a measure of refreshing, uninterrupted sleep versus tossing and turning) may be more important than nailing seven hours. And it’s worth noting that too much sleep — nine hours or more in one analysis of multiple studies — is linked to higher risk for early deaths, too. Be aware that sleep patterns and circadian rhythms that help rule sleep and wakefulness change over time. Good sleep hygiene can help. Tips include getting regular exercise, setting regular bedtime and wake-up times and turning off screens at least 30 minutes before going to bed.
FRANKLIN SQUARE/ELMONT HERALD — January 8, 2026
Go the distance
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Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick gifts Narcan kits
January 8, 2026 — FRANKLIN SQUARE/ELMONT HERALD
By HAILEY FULMER hfulmer@liherald.com
Last month, Sen. Patricia CanzoneriFitzpatrick generously donated Narcan kits to the Franklin Square Library, marking a significant milestone for public safety. In District 9, which also includes Malvern and Valley Stream, libraries may soon see Narcan kits. Aviva Kane, director of Franklin Square Library proposed to Sen. Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick that she also contact other libraries in the area to get on board with the emergency kits. “We were hoping to have a photo op with all our neighboring libraries because libraries are on the front lines,” Kane says. “We are providing so many more services than just books and information.” Kane believes that the library is also a place for the community to retrieve health-related materials. The Narcan kits being the newest addition to the library bring a more health-centered atmosphere. She would like for staff to be trained on Narcan and the administration of the AED equipment. The AED equipment was purchased by the library, separate from the funding of the Senator. They had this equipment before, “but it is again, it’s like supporting the community from the ground up,” Kane says. The Narcan Kits will be accessible and distributed on the ground level for free for anyone battling an overdose.
Courtesy Franklin Square Library
Pictured from left to right is Carl Gerrat, Vice President of the Franklin Square Library Board; Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Aviva Kane, Director; Bill Youngfert, President of the Franklin Square Library Board. With drug-related emergencies, they can happen anywhere, however, making life-saving equipment accessible to the public is a big step forward in bringing public awareness. In the past, the Long Beach Library has administered Narcan equipment. It
ended up saving a person’s life. Senator Fitzpatrick-Canzoneri emphasizes the necessity of the equipment because like this incident, it is “demonstrating that these resources are critical tools that protect residents, support recovery, and affirm the need for these resources in
every community.” Senator Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick will further her goal in prioritizing the wellness of the public. She will additionally partner with any organizations or institutions that will help extend the path for a safe and healthy community.
Pierre-Jonson, a leader and voice for Elmont heart, rather than doing it for political gain. She accepts help from anyone who wants her, no matter their political stance or background, painting In 2009, Mimi Pierre-Johnson founded the her a true leader. Lorraine first met Pierre-Johnson shortly Elmont Culture Center. A non-profit organization that serves the community by prioritizing educa- after she joined the democratic club in 2023 during a “Hate Has No Home Here” tion and culture, building a safe space, event, a movement started in Chicago and fighting against any injustices back in 2016 to support those who are brought to community members. targeted because of their race. “We “When I talk about the Elmont Cultried to bring together people of difture Center, that word culture means ferent faiths and backg rounds,” a lot, but they see it as a community Attias added. center, like an after-school program, Pierre-Johnson stands in solidaribut a true culture center must bring ty with her community, although she people together.” mentioned she has not seen the Her idea was derived from schoolresources and funding in Elmont like aged children needing a place to stay LoRRAInE AttIAS she used to. “But the community after school hours, and the organiza- member, became more diverse, “ she mention only expanded from there. Belmont-Merrick tioned. So, the Elmont community Pierre-Johnson saw how much the Democratic once saw more resources, but once community struggled with basic Immigration the community became more diverse, necessities so it really pushed her to Committee all of that had dissolved. “So now you build what the Elmont Culture Center have a shift that you almost have to is today. Lorraine Attias was a school teacher for 35 start over again, “ she adds. The work of the Elmont Culture Center startyears in New York City and currently serves as a member of the Belmont-Merrick Democratic ed to transform into something the community started to appreciate. “And now I can see a little Immigration Committee. “Mimi doesn’t really want to be political,” bit that we do have people who want to do things, Attias said. “She really wants to be an activist for and I think once they realize all of the things her people,” she added. Attias believes this is that we have done in the community, that is how you should really be, doing it from your where they are like, we want to be a part of it.”
By HAILEY FULMER
hfulmer@liherald.com
S
he really wants to be an activist for her people.
Courtesy Mimi Pierre-Johnson
Mimi Pierre-Johnson, Elmont activist and founder of Elmont Culture Center.
11
What’s neWs in and out of the classroom
FRANKLIN SQUARE/ELMONT HERALD — January 8, 2026
HERALD SchoolS John Street students participate in toy drive John Street School spread holiday cheer by participating in two heartwarming toy drives in December. New, unwrapped toys were collected for the Ronald McDonald House in Glen Oaks, the John Theissen Children’s Foundation and the NYU Langone Child Life Pro g ram. The Ronald McDonald House drive was organized by the school’s PTA, while the second drive was presented in partnership with New York State Assemblyman Ed Ra. These meaningful drives helped students embrace the true spirit of giving. By contributing to those in need, students learned firsthand how small acts of kindness can make a big difference. –Jordan Vallone
John Street School Principal Thomas Riccobono and students are pictured with some of the many toy donations.
Courtesy Franklin Square Union Free School District
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STEPPING OUT
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Fettucine with Brussels Sprouts and Cranberries
Hearty Beef Stew with Roasted Vegetables
Rustic Roasted Winter Vegetable Chowder
New year, fresh flavors Your kitchen beckons By Karen Bloom
T
he holidays may be behind us, but winter’s cozy rhythm is in full force. January invites us to nest at home and gather in the kitchen, where comforting, flavorful dishes warm both body and spirit — and gently set the tone for healthier habits in the new year. It’s the perfect time to experiment “Top Chef”–style, playing with bold flavors and seasonal ingredients. After all, few pleasures rival a hearty, nourishing meal shared on a cold winter evening.
additional 1-2 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed. (If pasta is too dry, add reserved cooking water a tablespoon at a time.) Season with salt and pepper and serve garnished with Parmesan cheese and reserved bacon.
Consider adding these recipes to your repertoire.
• 1 cup cubed butternut squash • 1 cup cubed carrots • 1 cup cubed parsnips • 1 cup cubed sweet potatoes • 1 cup cubed onion • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided • 1 1/2 pounds boneless beef sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes • 3/4 cup chicken stock • 3 bay leaves • 1/2 teaspoon thyme leaves • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, coarsely ground • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/4 cup dry red wine Preheat oven to 425°F. Toss vegetables with 1 tablespoon of the oil. Arrange in single layer on large baking sheet. Roast 20 minutes or until vegetables are golden brown. Meanwhile, heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil in large skillet on medium-high heat. Brown beef in batches. Return all beef to skillet. Add roasted vegetables, stock, wine, salt, pepper, thyme and bay leaves. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low; simmer 10 minutes or until sauce is slightly thickened. Remove bay leaves before serving.
Fettucine with Brussels Sprouts and Cranberries A satisfying plate of pasta is especially welcoming on a cold winter day. • 4 slices bacon (approximately), cut into 1/2-inch pieces • 2 cups (about 12 ounces) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and vertically halved • 1 medium onion, sliced • 1 cup chicken broth • 1⁄4 cup dry vermouth • 1⁄2 cup dried cranberries, coarsely chopped • 6 ounces fettuccine (or another long pasta like spaghetti) • 2 ounces. Parmesan cheese, coarsely shredded • Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste Slowly cook bacon in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat until fat is rendered and bacon is crisp, about 7 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels; set bacon aside. Increase heat to medium-high, arrange Brussels sprouts cut-side down in the rendered bacon fat and cook, without stirring, until sprouts begin to crisp and brown on the cut face, about 2 minutes. Add the onion and toss to combine with the sprouts; cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the broth, vermouth, and dried cranberries, scraping up any fond from the bottom of the skillet, and bring to a fast simmer. Cover, reduce heat to medium, and cook until the sprouts soften, about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, cook the pasta until just al dente, reserving 1/4 cup of the cooking water. Transfer pasta to the skillet with the sprouts and liquid and toss continuously over medium-high heat for an
Hearty Beef Stew with Roasted Vegetables This classic stick-to-your-ribs stew is a terrific winter warmer-upper, served with a hearty bread or corn bread.
Rustic Roasted Winter Vegetable Chowder A rustic, flavorful soup can be flavorful centerpiece to healthy, satisfying meal. This filling soup is packed with vegetables. • 1/2 small butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch dice (about 2 cups) • 3 medium parsnips, peeled, cut into 1-inch dice (about 1 cup ) • 1 medium sweet potato, peeled, cut into 1-inch dice (about 1 cup) • 2 medium carrots, peeled, cut into 1-inch dice
(about 1 cup) • 1/2 fennel bulb, quartered & sliced thin (about 1 cup) • 1/2 teaspoon plus 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt or coarse sea salt • 2 tablespoons plus 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided • 1 medium onion, diced (about 2 cups) • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour • 4 cups vegetable broth • 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled, cut into 3/4inch dice (about 2 cups) 4-5 fresh thyme sprigs • 1 cup milk or unsweetened plain almond milk • Additional salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste • More pepper and thyme leaves for garnish Heat oven to 400 F. In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash, parsnips, sweet potatoes, carrots, and fennel with 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt. Spread in a single layer on a large baking sheet and roast until tender and browned in places, about 40 minutes, turning a couple of times while roasting. While the veggies are roasting, prepare the base of the soup. To a large saucepan over low heat, add 3 tablespoons olive oil. Add the onion along with a pinch of salt and a bit of pepper, then cook, stirring occasionally, until soft, about 10 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for 3 minutes, stirring constantly. Stir in the vegetable broth. Add the potatoes and thyme. Bring to a boil over medium heat then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes or until potatoes are soft. Remove from heat. Pick out the thyme stems and discard. Stir in the roasted vegetables. Carefully transfer about 3 cups of the chowder to the pitcher of a blender. Puree until smooth. Return the pureed mixture to the pot and stir to combine. The soup should be thick, rich, and creamy. Stir in the milk. Place the pot back on the burner, and, with the heat on medium-low, return to a simmer, stirring often to prevent burning. Taste and add additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve garnished with an additional turn of cracked pepper and thyme leaves.
Hailed by Rolling Stone as the “world’s premier soft-rock party band,” Yacht Rock Revue invites audiences on a nostalgic voyage through the melodies of the ‘70s and ‘80s. Since their humble beginnings in 2007, Atlanta, Ga.-based YRR has emerged as a pivotal figure in revitalizing yacht rock, sharing stages with icons and garnering a devoted following of “Anchorheads.” Inspired by soft rock’s golden era, the 10-piece band has mastered the art of recreating the breezy laid-back tunes that defined a generation. From the sun-kissed melodies of Steely Dan and Michael McDonald to Hall & Oates’ velvety harmonies, their repertoire spans beloved hits that evoke memories of palm trees, ocean breezes and carefree summers. But Yacht Rock Revue isn’t just a tribute band. Their original compositions are a modern ode to the genre, capturing the essence of those bygone days while infusing it with a fresh and invigorating twist.
Thursday through Saturday, Jan. 8-10, 8 p.m. $82, $60.25, $49.25 $37.25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
V is for Violet Families are welcome to Nassau County Museum of Art for a special storytime with children’s author Valerie Goldstein. During the interactive reading of her inspiring picture book “Violet’s Victory!”, young audiences will follow Violet — a determined girl with lavender hair — as she discovers her inner strength, perseverance as she chases her dreams. Violet wants to participate in Sports Day at her school. She walks with crutches for support, which she calls her “magic sticks.” Violet knows she will not be able to keep up with her classmates using crutches. Then she spots a purple handcycle! With determination and perseverance she participates in Sports Day. Every hue of purple is mentioned and makes for a perfect art connection. Following the reading, children and caregivers can meet the author during a book signing and participate in a handson craft inspired by Violet’s journey. Designed to spark imagination and open the door to meaningful conversations, the session celebrates resilience, self-belief and the joy of trying something new. Saturday, Jan. 10, 1:30-3 p.m. $20 adult, $10 members and children. Register at nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337.
FRANKLIN SQUARE/ELMONT HERALD — January 8, 2026
Yacht Rock Revue
January 8, 2026 — FRANKLIN SQUARE/ELMONT HERALD
14
YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD JAN
8
‘Everybody Loves Raymond: Celebrating 30 Years’
Visit the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame for its latest exhibit. It features the 70-foot-wide set from the show’s recent 30th anniversary TV special on CBS, never before on display. The exhibit (designed by LIMEHOF Creative Director and renowned designer Kevin O’Callaghan) is a completely immersive experience. Visitors can walk into the world of the Barone family and explore their home through original studio sets, which include the living room, the kitchen, and other areas of the house. Also see a variety of iconic items, including original clothing, the famous fork and spoon, and the Christmas toaster, among other classic items from the series. Multimedia clips, including behind the scenes and rare out-takes and a range of videos related to the show, will play in LIMEHOF’s surround sound theater. • Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook • Time: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. • Contact: limusichalloffame.org or (631) 689-5888
JAN
10
Elated Eagles
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: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: Noon-2 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
Tunes with the John Fogarty Tribute Project
Plaza Theatrical invites to all to its stage at Elmont Memorial Library for a high-energy celebration of the music of John Fogerty and Creedence Clearwater Revival.. Known for their authentic, bluesy, swamp-rock sound, the John Fogarty Tribute Project prides themselves on faithfully capturing the spirit of both the classic Creedence years and John Fogerty’s solo career. Their shows deliver the music fans love, performed with accuracy, energy and heart. $40, $35 seniors. • Where: 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont • Time: 7:30 p.m. • Contact: PlazaTheatrical.com or call (516) 599-6870
CALENDAR Sadness, Anger, Disgust and Fear. Kids learn to recognize emotions and explore ways that we express and manage our own emotions. With opening weekend activities to celebrate the arrival of this traveling exhibit. • Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Art explorations
JAN
22
Paul Cornish Trio
Newly signed to Blue Note Records, Los Angeles-based pianist and composer Paul Cornish is making waves as one of the most innovative new voices in jazz. Presented in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center, Tilles Center Atrium becomes an intimate lounge to showcase this exciting up-and-coming jazz talent. Cornish, who strives to inspire freedom and collaboration in his music and community, has performed extensively across the globe with such notable artists as Joshua Redman, Louis Cole, Mark Guiliana, and more. With Jonathan Pinson (drums) and Jermaine Paul (bass) he’ll perform selections from his Blue Note Records debut album “You’re Exaggerating. “ A Stanford Jazz Workshop alumnus, Cornish blends deep jazz roots with bold, forward-thinking vision, transforming tradition into an electrifying and inspiring musical journey. A standout talent from Houston’s renowned High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, Cornish went on to earn degrees from USC and the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz at UCLA. Now a member of Joshua Redman’s band, he has toured the • Where: LIU Post campus, 720 world and was featured on Redman’s NPR Tiny Desk Concert. “Paul is one of the most Northern Blvd., Brookville innovative pianists to come along in quite a while,” says Blue Note President Don • Time: 7:30 p.m. Was. “He is the next purveyor of that hallowed legacy.” Don’t miss this opportunity to • Contact: tillescenter.org or witness Cornish’s extraordinary artistry and boundless creativity live. (516) 299-3100
JAN
11
Morse Code Moniker
Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes families to Learn Your Name in Morse Code Day. Stop by to learn about Samuel Morse, the telegraph and learn how to spell your name in dashes and dots while making a bracelet. This is a drop-in program. Also discover more about Morse code in Communication Station on the second floor. • Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: 1-3 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
Comic showcase
Enjoy an afternoon of laughter with The 50+ Comedy Tour, featuring an all-new lineup of talented comedians: all over the age of 50 at Elmont Memorial Library. This high-energy show brings decades of experience and sharp humor to the stage, proving that laughter only gets better with age. The lineup includes host Paul Anthony, “Banjo” Les Bayer and Chris Monty. • Where: 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont • Time: 2:30 p.m. • Contact: ElmontLibrary.org or (516) 354-5280
JAN
15
Disney on ice Presents Mickey’s Search Party
Enjoy the magic of ‘Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party,’ an action-packed adventure filled with beloved characters, dazzling skating and immersive storytelling at UBS arena. Mickey and friends journey through exciting worlds as they search for clues, bringing the audience along for an unforgettable, high-energy experience. Perfect for all ages who love Disney magic on ice. • Where: 2400 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont • Time: 7 p.m., through Jan. 19, times vary. • Contact: ticketmaster.com
JAN
17
Ivy League of Comedy
Known for their elite brand of clever comedy, The Ivy League of Comedy visits the Madison Theatre. You’ve heard their brilliant comedic voices on late-night television and Comedy Central and on the club circuit. The lineup features Keith Alberstadt, who’s playful personality radiates on stage. He mixes light-hearted sarcasm with a southern charm and has become
a favorite at comedy clubs and theaters. Also Clayton Fletcher, who’s heard every day on Sirius/ XM Radio’s Laugh USA, Blue Collar Comedy, and Jamie Foxx’s Foxxhole stations. He has been featured on Hulu-TV’s “Comedy Brew,” MSNBC’s “Your Business,” ESPN’s “World Series of Poker,” and Comcast-TV’s “Who’s Laughing Now?” He allows us to see the world through the eyes of the son of a poker-playing mom and a jazz musician dad. And Jane Condon, mom of two boys, has been dubbed “an uppercrust Roseanne.” She loves to tell stories about her adventures (mostly survival tales) with her husband and kids.
Converse, collaborate and create with kids at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art. Get inspired by the art and objects in the galleries and then join educators at the Manes Center to explore and discover different materials to create your own original artwork. Kids and adults connect while talking about and making art together. A new project is featured every week. $20 adult, $10 child. For ages 2-14. Registration required. $20, $10 child; members free. • Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor • Time: Noon-3 p.m. • Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337
JAN
19
Let Freedom Ring with MLK
Visit Long Island Children’s Museum for a workshop honoring Martin Luther King, Jr. Families will learn about MLK beyond his “I Have a Dream” speech and gain a better understanding of his impact on the civil rights movement. Also participate in a gallery walk of images from that era and then create a bell to “let freedom ring.” The program is part of the AdvoKids monthly series that focuses on teaching kids how to advocate for themselves and others and teaching adults how to support their kids’ advocacy efforts. For ages 5 and up. Free with museum admission, but tickets required. • Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
• Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre • Time: 8 p.m. • Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444
Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out
Long Island Children’s Museum’s welcomes all to the opening of its new exhibit. Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out provides interactive experiences that help visitors learn about the important role emotions, memory and imagination play in our everyday lives. Hands-on and digital experiences focus on the five emotions featured in the film: Joy,
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.
15
News briefs Senior named semi-finalist for Scholarship
Covert Avenue School’s sixth grade scholars stepped into the roles of composers and instrument designers throughout the month of December, collaborating with music teacher Sheryl Turk on an immersive, project-based learning experience. This project challenged students to apply musical concepts through both composition and construction. Sixth g raders composed original rhythm patterns and engineered one-of-akind musical instruments to bring their compositions to life. Using everyday materials such as cardboard, gumballs, water bottles and string, the scholars explored how sound is produced through vibration, tension and resonance. During their culminating presentations, scholars explained how and why each instrument design produced sound. They then perfor med their original rhythm patterns, demonstrating both musical understanding and creative problem-solving. This hands-on project fostered critical thinking and an appreciation for the mechanics of music. “Each class has shown imagination and amazing composing abilities. Bravo to our sixth grade students!” Ms. Turk said.
Sewanhaka High School senior Alexandra Saccone has been named a semifinalist in the 2026 Coca-Cola Scholars Program. Selected from a pool of more than 107,000 applicants nationwide, Saccone is one of 1,238 high school seniors recognized for exceptional leadership, service, academic achievement and community involvement. As a semifinalist, Saccone now advances to the next stage of the highly competitive selection process for the chance to become a Coca-Cola Scholar and earn a $20,000 college scholarship. Semifinalists are invited to complete a Phase 2 application, which includes essays, a recommendation and a recent transcript. From this group, 250 regional finalists will be chosen to move forward and will be notified in early January 2026. Onehundred and fifty of the regional finalists will be named as Coke Scholars in late February and attend Coca-Cola Scholars Weekend in Atlanta, Georgia, from April 23-26, 2026.
–Hailey Fulmer
Courtesy Elmont Union Free School District
Covert Avenue School sixth graders are pictured with their instrument designs.
–Hailey Fulmer
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FRANKLIN SQUARE/ELMONT HERALD — January 8, 2026
Middle schoolers take music to a next level
16
Public Notices
News brief
January 8, 2026 — FRANKLIN SQUARE/ELMONT HERALD
LFRA1 0108
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST BEVERLY SINCLAIR, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered November 3, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 4, 2026 at 3:30 PM, premises known as 238-15 117th Road, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Elmont, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 32 Block 638 Lots 38, 39, 240. Approximate amount of judgment $807,422.76 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #605892/2024. Curtis R. Exum, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 24-000926 88193 157511 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU FLAGSTAR BANK, FSB, Plaintiff, Against NATALIE PIQUANT, YVANA PIQUANT, et al Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 11/30/2017, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on 1/30/2026 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 1573 Miriam Court, Elmont, New York 11003, and described as follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in Elmont, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 32 Block 729 Lot 3 The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $784,067.32 plus
interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 14-000987 If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine. Jane Shrenkel, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573 Dated: 11/26/2025 File Number: 385-0176 CA 157565
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 01/21/2026 at 2:00 P.M. to consider the following applications and appeals: -----------------------------THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 2:00 P.M. 50/26. NR FLORAL PARK - Karamvir Singh, Use variance to maintain 2-family dwelling., N/E cor. 243rd St. & Superior Rd., a/k/a 95-23 243rd. St. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550. This notice is only for new cases in Floral Park within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go
v/576/Live-StreamingVideo Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it. 157633
LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE, that the organizational meeting for the Elmont Fire District of the town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, New York will be held on the 12th day of January, 2026 at 7:00PM on that day at 100 School Road, Elmont, New York 11003. This notification is being given to the news media pursuant to the provisions of Section 94 of the Public Officers Law of the State of New York. DATED: December 30, 2025 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OF THE ELMONT FIRE DISTRICT ATTEST: FRANCES ANDINO DISTRICT SECRETARY 157647 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, AS SUCCESSOR-ININTEREST TO U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF THE J.P. MORGAN MORTGAGE ACQUISITION TRUST 2006-NC1 ASSET BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-NC1, Plaintiff AGAINST GEORGIA SARANTIS, GERASSIMOS ALEXATOS, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 6, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 5, 2026 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 140 Hunnewell Avenue, Elmont, NY 11003. All
that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Franklin Square, near Elmont, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 35 Block 29 Lot 1067. Approximate amount of judgment $546 ,398.58 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #608283/2023. Francesco P. Tini, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-004882 88208 157627
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR NEW CENTURY HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2005-C, ASSET BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, Plaintiff, Against JEAN PIERRE FORTURE, REBECCA FORTURE; ROSE FORTURE, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 05/08/2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on 1/20/2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 54 Biltmore Avenue, Elmont, New York 11003, and described as follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 0032 Block 00426-00 Lot 36, 37, 38 and 139. The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $437,474.19 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 602172/2020 If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the
Courtesy Sewanhaka Central High School District
Floral Park Memorial High School’s Student Council organized the donations and prepped them for pick-up on Dec. 11.
High School Student Council hosts food drive During the holiday season, Floral Park Memorial High School’s Student Council made a positive impact in the community by organizing its annual Island Harvest food drive, which ran from Nov. 10-Dec. 11. Thanks to the kindness and participation of students and staff, a total of 1,650 pounds of nonperishable food was collected and will be distributed to local
food banks and pantries, helping provide 1,375 meals to those experiencing food insecurity. In addition to the food drive, the Student Council will host an Ugly Sweater Day on Dec. 19 to raise additional funds for Island Harvest. –Hailey Fulmer
Public Notices
Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine. Brian Davis, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573 Dated: 11/14/2025 File Number: 19-302406 CA 157317 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Nationstar Mortgage LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST Marva Schneider; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered December 14, 2018, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 21,2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 135 Claridge Avenue, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Elmont, Town
of Hempstead, County of Nassau and the State of New York, Section 32 Block 437 Lots 36, 37, 38 and 39. Approximate amount of judgment $486,938.88 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 004952/2016. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” Dominic Chiariello, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792 Dated: December 5, 2025 For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2831 157294
LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU. FRANK DeOLIVEIRA, VICTOR DeOLIVEIRA Plaintiff -against- 1523 VAN SICLEN AVE PROPERTIES, LLC, et al
Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated October 15, 2025 and entered on November 18, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court “Rain or Shine” located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on January 27, 2026 at 2:30 p.m. As to Lots 379, 381, 383 and 385: situate, lying and being in the Village of Floral Park, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the easterly side of Van Siclen Avenue, distant 219.70 feet from the corner formed by the easterly side of Van Siclen Avenue and southerly side of Jericho Turnpike; being a plot 80.00 feet by 100.00 feet by 80.00 feet by 100.00 feet. As to Lots 387, 389, 391 and 393 situate, lying and being in the Village of Floral Park, Town of Hempstead, County of
Nassau, State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the easterly side of Van Siclen Avenue, distant 299.70 feet from the corner formed by the easterly side of Van Siclen Avenue and southerly side of Jericho Turnpike; being a plot 80.00 feet by 100.00 feet by 80.00 feet by 100.00 feet. Section: 32 Block: 59 Lot: 387, 389, 391 & 393, 379, 381, 383 & 385. Said premises known as 15 23 VAN SICLEN AVENUE, FLORAL PARK, NY Approximate amount of lien $3,846,053.96 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index Number 623169/2024. GERARD GEISWELLER, ESQ., Referee Forchelli Deegan Terrana LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 333 Earle Ovington Blvd., Suite 1010, Uniondale, New York 11553 {* Elmont Herald*} 157369 Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232
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Employment
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Every effort is made to insure the accuracy of your ad. Please check your ad at the first insertion. Credit will be made only for the first insertion. Credit given for errors in ads is limited to the printed space involved. Publisher reserves right to reject, cancel or correctly classify an ad.
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Call (516) 379-4245.
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
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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 8, 2026 — FRANKLIN SQUARE/ELMONT HERALD
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Homes
HERALD
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Don’t people understand how important permits are? Q. I notice you write about getting building permits all the time. You would think it was obvious, yet you devote many of your columns to reminding people to get permits. Is this because you find that people don’t already know this? I like the details about buildings that you give, and wish you could write more about that.
A. You would probably be amazed at how often I hear from people wondering if they need a permit for something. Or maybe you wouldn’t. Either way, I started writing this column, which some only see as an advertisement or a blog, in December of 1989, after speaking with a young lady from the Herald who came to speak to my local onte eeper Chamber of Commerce. I was a young architect with a toddler and a kindergartner, both of whom have long since finished college, married and provided my wife, Mindy, and me with grandchildren. When I first spoke to the local editor that day, it was about how I naively started my own practice after leaving an international firm in Manhattan. I realized right away that people are investing the largest amount of what they will ever spend on having a home, and need guidance on how to avoid the pitfalls of shoddy practices, dangerous work done by amateurs and getting ambushed by finding out the work they had done can’t pass a building inspection. She asked me to write a sample column, which wasn’t difficult, since local architects are challenged daily with trying to figure out the best way to get people out of the messes they’re dealing with. I noticed that different building departments had different instruction sheets and different ways of handling the permit process, and that some were extremely helpful, while others basically pushed the responsibility of explaining onto the architect. Some even referred architects, but mostly referred to unlicensed services, which became another problem for many homeowners when plans were incomplete or code-deficient, or where there was only a rubber stamp from an elderly retiree who needed a few extra bucks but wouldn’t be around to answer questions or resolve more technical problems. Basically, the system has no real guidance on whether the most expensive thing homeowners will ever undertake is being done safely, correctly or legally, or whether it will last. I approached bigger building departments about coming up with their own manuals to explain what needs a permit and the best way to get one. Not one, to this day, has either put together such a guide for their department, and not one municipality has ever informed their constituency in one of their newsletters about how important it is to avoid doing things the wrong way, having to go to court, pay a fine, and still have to file for a permit. One government leader even suggested that I write the manual for them. Instead, I write for you. So I try to inform people about how to avoid the hassles for better success — permits and all. Thank you!
Ask The Architect
M
L
© 2026 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.
19
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Market Place • •
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FRANKLIN SQUARE/ELMONT HERALD — January 8, 2026
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Answers to todAy’s puzzle
21
opinions
A
my Goodman, an intrepid journalist and a Long Island native, explained after a recent screening of a documentary about her that she is “committed to independent media being the oxygen to a democratic society.” The documentary “Steal This Story, Please!” had its premier at the DC/DOX film festival in Washington, D.C., in June, and has been shown at other film festivals, at which it has also received awards. And now she was “here on Long Island!” she exclaimed after the documentary was featured last kArl month as the grossmAn opening-night presentation of the Hamptons Doc Fest. Being on Long Island was “really a thrill,” Goodman said following the showing at Bay Street Theater in Sag Harbor. She is a 1975 Bay Shore High School graduate, and after graduating from Harvard with an anthropology degree, she went to work at WBAI, the listener-sponsored radio station in New York City, part of the Pacifica network. It was there that Goodman co-founded and became — and still is — host and executive producer of “Democracy
i
Now!” It began as a radio program, and subsequently expanded to television, too. Goodman has not only been a journalist on radio and TV, but has authored or co-authored books including “Standing Up to the Madness,” “The Exception to the Rulers,” “The Silenced Majority” and “Democracy Now! Twenty Years Covering the Movements Changing America,” published in 2017. As the website for it then related: “In 1996 Amy Goodman began hosting a show on Pacifica Radio called Democracy Now! to focus on the issues and movements that are too often ignored by the corporate media. Today Democracy Now! is the largest public media collaboration in the U.S., broadcasting on over 1,400 public television and radio stations around the world, with millions accessing it online at democracynow.org.” A documentary is different than a book. I’ve authored books and also written and presented documentaries, and as a journalism professor at SUNY Old Westbury, I taught for years a course called “Documentary: Theories and Techniques.” As John Grierson, the Scottish filmmaker credited with coining the term “documentary” in 1926, explained, a documentary focuses on an
T
“actuality” — capturing and showcasing the real-life issues of real people, with the “original” people involved, and “original” scenes, conveying a truer picture of reality, he felt, than actors and a set could provide. That’s what the documentary about Goodman does. It starts with her trying to question Wells Griffith, the representative of the first Trump administration at a 2018 United Nations climate conference in Poland. She asks Griffith about President Trump’s claim that climate change is a hoax. Griffith scrambles away up a series of stairways, with Goodman keeping up, and charges her with “harassment.” “A reporter asking you a question,” Goodman responds, “is not harassment.” The documentary then shifts to Goodman’s reporting on the 1991 killing of more than 200 independence protesters in East Timor by Indonesian troops, and shows her and fellow journalist Allan Nairn badly beaten. It includes her arrest, with other journalists, in a police sweep of an anti-war demonstration at the 2008 Republican National Convention in St. Paul, Minn. It presents scenes of Goodman covering Native Americans in Standing Rock, N.D., in 2017, protesting the Dakota
his 1975 Bay Shore High grad is seen and heard by millions on public media.
Access Pipeline, which brought with it the threat of oil spills that could contaminate the Missouri River and the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation’s water supply, as Goodman faced arrest. These are just some of the elements of “Steal This Story, Please!” The archival footage illuminates. The directing, by Carl Deal and Tia Lessin, is superb. The words of Goodman running through it are eloquent. Here’s the description of the documentary in the Hamptons Doc Fest program: “Undeterred by armed soldiers, smooth-talking politicians and riot police, journalist Amy Goodman has reported some of the most consequential stories of our time. ‘Steal This Story, Please!’ is a gripping portrait of Amy, the trailblazer whose unwavering commitment to truth-telling spans three decades of turbulent history. The film is both a call to action and a celebration of resistance, posing the question: What happens to democracy when the press surrenders to power?” In kicking off the 18th year of the Hamptons Doc Fest with the documentary about Goodman, Jacqui Lofaro, the festival’s founder and executive director, spoke of “journalism’s vital role in revealing truth.” Carl Grossman has been an investigative reporter in a variety of media for more than 50 years. He is a professor of journalism at the State University of New York at Old Westbury.
Ready to serve the community in 2026
want to begin by saying thank you for the trust you have once again placed in me. Because of your support, I will have the honor of serving you for an eighth term in the Nassau County Legislature. Since I was first elected in 2011, my commitment has never changed: to advocate every day for working families, safer streets, and a fair share of county resources for Legislative District 3. To those who have been with me on this journey from the beginning, I am cArrié deeply grateful. To my new neighsolAges bors in Malverne and Lakeview who have joined L.D. 3 through redistricting, I am excited to get to know you better, learn about your priorities and make sure your voices are heard at the county seat in Mineola. Whether you’ve lived here for generations or just recently moved in, this district is your home, and you deserve a legislator who will show up, listen and
deliver. By way of introduction for newer constituents: I hold a law degree from Boston College, and before serving in the Legislature, I was a commissioner on the Nassau County Commission on Human Rights. That experience shaped my belief that government must treat every person with dignity and fairness no matter what their race, religion, background or ZIP code. Throughout my time as a legislator, I have prioritized initiatives that reflect those values. In 2025 my office spearheaded an emergency supply and fundraising drive for Jamaica after the devastation of Hurricane Melissa, organized with community partners to support our Caribbean neighbors near and far. We also secured a $427,803 Community Revitalization Program grant for a new fire training tower in South Floral Park, an investment that strengthens public safety while easing the burden on local taxpayers. We have worked in partnership with NuHealth and Emanuel Baptist Church
i
to bring free breast cancer screenings to Elmont, and hosted Homeowner Exemption Liaison Program tax exemption workshops at local libraries to help seniors, veterans and other eligible homeowners save money on their property taxes. Looking ahead, I will continue to hold the county’s feet to the fire to ensure that our district gets its fair share of resources, especially when it comes to long-overdue repairs of major county roads that you travel every day. Our communities deserve safe, well-maintained infrastructure, and I won’t stop fighting until we see real results. We will also be working to address the excessive air traffic in the skies above District 3, and the noise and air pollution that those flight paths create. I will also continue to provide the communities I serve with resources that empower homeowners to advocate for themselves and ensure that they pay only their fair share of property taxes, and not a penny more. Each year my office hosts a series of assessment
welcome some new neighbors, in Malverne and Lakeview, to the 3rd District.
grievance workshops to help property owners challenge the assessed values of their homes if they believe they are incorrect. These workshops teach you how to exercise your rights — without hiring an expensive outside service. Our first two workshops are set for noon to 2 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 30, and 7 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 25. Please visit my Nassau County website, nassaucountyny.gov/LD3, on those dates and times and click the links at the top of the page to tune in through Microsoft Teams. As always, if my office can be of any assistance, whether you need help navigating county services, have an idea to improve our community or just want to share a concern, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (516) 571-6203 or csolages@ nassaucountyny.gov. Please also consider providing my office with your email address so that we can keep you up to date on our upcoming community events. It is an honor to serve you, and I wish you a happy, healthy and prosperous 2026! Carrié Solages, of Valley Stream, represents Nassau County’s 3rd Legislative District.
FRANKLIN SQUARE/ELMONT HERALD — January 8, 2026
Documenting a formidable L.I. journalist, Amy Goodman
22
Herald editorial
Franklin square/elmont
January 8, 2026 — FRANKLIN SQUARE/ELMONT HERALD
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Without January pressure, change works bette
e
very January, we perform the same ritual. We draw a hard line between who we were and who we intend to become, armed with resolutions that sound decisive and hopeful: lose 20 pounds, save more money, finally become more disciplined. And yet, by February, or sooner, many of these goals quietly dissolve. This isn’t a personal failure. It’s a structural one. Traditional goal-setting asks too much of willpower and too little of reality. It assumes that motivation is stable, that life will cooperate, and that change happens neatly within arbitrary timelines. Behavioral research consistently shows the opposite. Willpower fluctuates. Stress, fatigue and unexpected events derail even the most sincere intentions. A goal like “exercise five times a week” collapses the moment work runs late, a child gets sick or winter motivation disappears. The problem isn’t laziness; it’s designing change by focusing on outcomes instead of behavior. Consider the familiar stories of those who set weight-loss goals. For weeks they follow strict rules, track every calorie and push through workouts fueled by January enthusiasm. Then, when the scale stalls or life intervenes, frustration sets in. The goal becomes a source of shame rather than support, and quitting feels inevitable. Contrast this with someone who
builds a simple system instead: walking for 20 minutes after dinner, cooking the same three nourishing meals during the week, keeping snacks visible and convenient. No dramatic target, no deadline, just repeatable behaviors that fit real life. One approach relies on intensity; the other relies on design. The same pattern shows up at work. Professionals set ambitious annual targets — revenue milestones by the third quarter, promotion by December — tying their sense of progress to metrics largely outside their control. When external conditions change, motivation craters. A systems-based approach looks different: a weekly ritual of deep work, a monthly feedback loop, a principle of saying no to low-leverage tasks. These don’t guarantee a promotion, but they dramatically increase clarity, energy and long-term momentum. What replaces resolutions isn’t a lowering of ambition; it’s a smarter framework. Instead of obsessing over outcomes or focusing on inputs, what’s important are the actions you can show up for even on imperfect days. Instead of intensity, prioritize consistency. Ten minutes completed daily beats an hour attempted sporadically. Instead of perfection, build adaptability. Systems that can bend won’t break when life gets messy. This reframing also forces us to rethink what progress means. In 2026, progress doesn’t look like constant
acceleration or public metrics that reward burnout. It looks like sustainability. It looks like habits that support physical and mental health, boundaries that protect attention, and routines that make good choices easier over time. Progress is waking up with less dread. It’s energy that lasts past Wednesday. It’s the ability to course-correct without starting over. The myth of the January fresh start persists because it’s comforting. It promises a clean slate, a dramatic reset. But meaningful change rarely respects the calendar. People quit smoking on random Tuesdays. They start therapy after breaking points, not countdowns. They rebuild routines in April, September or the middle of a chaotic week. When we tie improvement to a date, we also tie failure to missing it. A healthier approach is permissionbased rather than deadline-driven. You can begin again at any point. You can adjust systems without declaring them broken. You can measure progress by how supported you feel, not how perfect your execution looks. This January doesn’t need another list of resolutions destined to expire. It can be a moment to design a life that works beyond motivation — one built on systems, rituals and principles that make showing up easier than giving up. For those tired of trying harder and ready to live better, that shift changes everything.
23
opinions
A
my Goodman, an intrepid journalist and a Long Island native, explained after a recent screening of a documentary about her that she is “committed to independent media being the oxygen to a democratic society.” The documentary “Steal This Story, Please!” had its premier at the DC/DOX film festival in Washington, D.C., in June, and has been shown at other film festivals, at which it has also received awards. And now she was “here on Long Island!” she exclaimed after the documentary was featured last kArl month as the grossmAn opening-night presentation of the Hamptons Doc Fest. Being on Long Island was “really a thrill,” Goodman said following the showing at Bay Street Theater in Sag Harbor. She is a 1975 Bay Shore High School graduate, and after graduating from Harvard with an anthropology degree, she went to work at WBAI, the listener-sponsored radio station in New York City, part of the Pacifica network. It was there that Goodman co-founded and became — and still is — host and executive producer of “Democracy
i
Now!” It began as a radio program, and subsequently expanded to television, too. Goodman has not only been a journalist on radio and TV, but has authored or co-authored books including “Standing Up to the Madness,” “The Exception to the Rulers,” “The Silenced Majority” and “Democracy Now! Twenty Years Covering the Movements Changing America,” published in 2017. As the website for it then related: “In 1996 Amy Goodman began hosting a show on Pacifica Radio called Democracy Now! to focus on the issues and movements that are too often ignored by the corporate media. Today Democracy Now! is the largest public media collaboration in the U.S., broadcasting on over 1,400 public television and radio stations around the world, with millions accessing it online at democracynow.org.” A documentary is different than a book. I’ve authored books and also written and presented documentaries, and as a journalism professor at SUNY Old Westbury, I taught for years a course called “Documentary: Theories and Techniques.” As John Grierson, the Scottish filmmaker credited with coining the term “documentary” in 1926, explained, a documentary focuses on an
T
“actuality” — capturing and showcasing the real-life issues of real people, with the “original” people involved, and “original” scenes, conveying a truer picture of reality, he felt, than actors and a set could provide. That’s what the documentary about Goodman does. It starts with her trying to question Wells Griffith, the representative of the first Trump administration at a 2018 United Nations climate conference in Poland. She asks Griffith about President Trump’s claim that climate change is a hoax. Griffith scrambles away up a series of stairways, with Goodman keeping up, and charges her with “harassment.” “A reporter asking you a question,” Goodman responds, “is not harassment.” The documentary then shifts to Goodman’s reporting on the 1991 killing of more than 200 independence protesters in East Timor by Indonesian troops, and shows her and fellow journalist Allan Nairn badly beaten. It includes her arrest, with other journalists, in a police sweep of an anti-war demonstration at the 2008 Republican National Convention in St. Paul, Minn. It presents scenes of Goodman covering Native Americans in Standing Rock, N.D., in 2017, protesting the Dakota
his 1975 Bay Shore High grad is seen and heard by millions on public media.
Access Pipeline, which brought with it the threat of oil spills that could contaminate the Missouri River and the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation’s water supply, as Goodman faced arrest. These are just some of the elements of “Steal This Story, Please!” The archival footage illuminates. The directing, by Carl Deal and Tia Lessin, is superb. The words of Goodman running through it are eloquent. Here’s the description of the documentary in the Hamptons Doc Fest program: “Undeterred by armed soldiers, smooth-talking politicians and riot police, journalist Amy Goodman has reported some of the most consequential stories of our time. ‘Steal This Story, Please!’ is a gripping portrait of Amy, the trailblazer whose unwavering commitment to truth-telling spans three decades of turbulent history. The film is both a call to action and a celebration of resistance, posing the question: What happens to democracy when the press surrenders to power?” In kicking off the 18th year of the Hamptons Doc Fest with the documentary about Goodman, Jacqui Lofaro, the festival’s founder and executive director, spoke of “journalism’s vital role in revealing truth.” Carl Grossman has been an investigative reporter in a variety of media for more than 50 years. He is a professor of journalism at the State University of New York at Old Westbury.
Ready to serve the community in 2026
want to begin by saying thank you for the trust you have once again placed in me. Because of your support, I will have the honor of serving you for an eighth term in the Nassau County Legislature. Since I was first elected in 2011, my commitment has never changed: to advocate every day for working families, safer streets, and a fair share of county resources for Legislative District 3. To those who have been with me on this journey from the beginning, I am cArrié deeply grateful. To my new neighsolAges bors in Malverne and Lakeview who have joined L.D. 3 through redistricting, I am excited to get to know you better, learn about your priorities and make sure your voices are heard at the county seat in Mineola. Whether you’ve lived here for generations or just recently moved in, this district is your home, and you deserve a legislator who will show up, listen and
deliver. By way of introduction for newer constituents: I hold a law degree from Boston College, and before serving in the Legislature, I was a commissioner on the Nassau County Commission on Human Rights. That experience shaped my belief that government must treat every person with dignity and fairness no matter what their race, religion, background or ZIP code. Throughout my time as a legislator, I have prioritized initiatives that reflect those values. In 2025 my office spearheaded an emergency supply and fundraising drive for Jamaica after the devastation of Hurricane Melissa, organized with community partners to support our Caribbean neighbors near and far. We also secured a $427,803 Community Revitalization Program grant for a new fire training tower in South Floral Park, an investment that strengthens public safety while easing the burden on local taxpayers. We have worked in partnership with NuHealth and Emanuel Baptist Church
i
to bring free breast cancer screenings to Elmont, and hosted Homeowner Exemption Liaison Program tax exemption workshops at local libraries to help seniors, veterans and other eligible homeowners save money on their property taxes. Looking ahead, I will continue to hold the county’s feet to the fire to ensure that our district gets its fair share of resources, especially when it comes to long-overdue repairs of major county roads that you travel every day. Our communities deserve safe, well-maintained infrastructure, and I won’t stop fighting until we see real results. We will also be working to address the excessive air traffic in the skies above District 3, and the noise and air pollution that those flight paths create. I will also continue to provide the communities I serve with resources that empower homeowners to advocate for themselves and ensure that they pay only their fair share of property taxes, and not a penny more. Each year my office hosts a series of assessment
welcome some new neighbors, in Malverne and Lakeview, to the 3rd District.
grievance workshops to help property owners challenge the assessed values of their homes if they believe they are incorrect. These workshops teach you how to exercise your rights — without hiring an expensive outside service. Our first two workshops are set for noon to 2 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 30, and 7 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 25. Please visit my Nassau County website, nassaucountyny.gov/LD3, on those dates and times and click the links at the top of the page to tune in through Microsoft Teams. As always, if my office can be of any assistance, whether you need help navigating county services, have an idea to improve our community or just want to share a concern, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (516) 571-6203 or csolages@ nassaucountyny.gov. Please also consider providing my office with your email address so that we can keep you up to date on our upcoming community events. It is an honor to serve you, and I wish you a happy, healthy and prosperous 2026! Carrié Solages, of Valley Stream, represents Nassau County’s 3rd Legislative District.
FRANKLIN SQUARE/ELMONT HERALD — January 8, 2026
Documenting a formidable L.I. journalist, Amy Goodman
24
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