Franklin Square/Elmont Herald 12-11-2025

HERALD Franklin square/elmont

Rockin’ around the Elmont

Christmas tree

The Elmont community rang in the holiday season on Dec. 4, celebrating the lighting of a Christmas tree and menorah at Veterans Plaza.

Neighbors packed in for a chilly evening, filled with light, music and local traditions.

Above, dancers from Tip Tap Toe performed routines to a variety of Christmas tunes.

Right, Santa Claus made a surprise appearance, officially kicking off the holidays.

Story, more photos, Page 10.

Boxer reflects on success after setbacks

By SEAN KENNEDY Correspondent

To the untrained eye, boxer Tyrone “The Jackpot” James won his fight in twelve rounds.

But to those who know him, they know that his most recent triumph in the boxing ring wasn’t just the product of twelve rounds- but instead, the journey of victories, setbacks, and injuries that has fueled an eventful career.

Starting out at age 10, the Elmont native boxed his entire life. In the amateur ranks, James racked up accolades, becoming a five-time Junior Olympic and Nebraska Gold Glove champion.

Tout football player for the nowdefunct United States Football League Oklahoma Outlaws, while his uncle, Jerry, boxed and was a U.S. Olympic Alternate for the 1988 Summer Olympic Games in Seoul, South Korea. With athletes in his family, dedication runs in his blood.

he first time I saw him fight, I was so amazed. I knew he was going to be great.

AuREliANo SoSA

Tyrone James’ boxing coach

“When he was younger, the first time I saw him fight, I was so amazed,” said Aureliano Sosa, James’ Brooklyn-based boxing coach. “I knew he was going to be great.”

James’ athletic success comes in part from his upbringing in a family of champions. His father, Darryl, was a stand-

“He’s incredibly dedicated to his craft,” said John William, James’ strength and conditioning coach. “I have never met an athlete so energetic and enthusiastic about his work, together with the dedication he puts in- especially coming back from his injury.”

Despite having ten knockouts and an undefeated record to his name, James has gone through heartbreak — most recently suffering a bicep injury that sidelined him for three years.

“I’ve gone through a few injuries, at first tearing my UCL (ulnar collateral ligament),” James said. “Most recently, at work, I realized that

Continued on page 8

Alice Moreno/Herald photos

things to know: ELMont LiBRARY

Closing out December with music, mystery and merriment

By JORDAN VALLONE

jvallone@liherald.com

As the festive season reaches its peak, the Elmont Memorial Library is closing out December with a lively mix of music, literature and holiday-themed entertainment. These upcoming programs — all free and open to adults — offer residents a chance to enjoy live performances, explore gripping fiction and participate in a spirited trivia experience as the community prepares to welcome a new year.

Experience

the

Holiday Harmony Spectacular – Dec. 13

The library’s theatre will transform into a joyous winter showcase during the Holiday Harmony Spectacular, presented by the Long Island Cabaret Theatre. This high-energy performance features a live band, a full cast of 30 singers and dancers, and special guest vocalist Tom Stallone, all coming together to deliver some of the most iconic holiday songs of all time. The concert promises a vibrant blend of classic melodies, show-stopping choreography and warm seasonal spirit, making it an ideal afternoon outing for anyone hoping to embrace the magic of December. This event is free, open to the public and requires no registration, with seating on a first-come, first-served basis. The performance takes place Saturday, Dec. 13, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. in the Theatre.

Explore mystery and atmosphere with Mexican Gothic – Dec. 22

Readers can immerse themselves in Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s critically acclaimed novel Mexican Gothic during an in-person discussion led by Librarian Gloria. The conversation will examine the book’s stylish yet unsettling journey, following a debutante who ventures into the remote Mexican countryside to rescue her cousin from a household steeped in secrets and sinister history. Participants will explore the novel’s gothic atmosphere, themes of inheritance and control, and the masterful storytelling that elevated the book to bestseller status. Open to longtime fans and newcomers, the discussion offers a space for thoughtful dialogue. This program is open to everyone and requires no registration, meeting Monday, Dec. 22, from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. in Room 01.

your knowledge at a holiday trivia showdown – Dec. 26

The holiday fun continues with a festive trivia experience hosted by game show personality Rosa Yordan, inviting adults to participate as contestants or enthusiastic audience members. The lively program features questions spanning Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and other end-ofyear celebrations, offering an entertaining way to learn more about seasonal traditions. The event also includes a Kwanzaa Slide dance, adding movement, culture and rhythm to the mix as participants enjoy a friendly community gathering. Designed to bring people together between holidays, this upbeat trivia session is a perfect way to close out December. It is free, first-come, firstserved and open to adults, taking place Friday, Dec. 26, from 12 to 1:30 p.m. in Room 02.

Season kicks off with German holiday charm

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

Franklin Square residents stepped into a slice of Germany last weekend as the annual Christkindl Markt returned to the Plattduetsche Park Restaurant on Nov. 29 and 30. From morning through late afternoon, the historic venue transformed into a bustling winter marketplace filled with festive music, handmade crafts, and the unmistakable aroma of holiday treats.

The tradition — which began in 1999 as a fundraiser for the Volkfest Vereen, a nonprofit promoting German culture and heritage — once again drew crowds eager to support local artisans and enjoy a holiday experience rooted in old-world charm. General manager Matt Buck said organizers were proud to see how the market has grown from its modest beginnings into one of the community’s most beloved seasonal events.

Visitors browsed through rooms packed with vendors selling arts and crafts, live holiday arrangements, wreaths, and one-of-a-kind gifts. The expansive selection of German imports remained a centerpiece of the event, offering everything from chocolates and candies to artisanal breads and other specialty goods that reflect the culinary heritage of Europe’s famed Christmas markets.

The Grand Ballroom, garden area, and several smaller rooms were all filled with displays and activity. Outside, large tents recreated the atmosphere of traditional German Christkindl markets — typically held outdoors — giving shoppers an authentic taste of holiday festivities abroad.

Families were treated to appearances by Santa and holiday characters, as well as live carolers and music throughout the weekend. Refreshments and warm seasonal drinks were also available, adding to the cozy, communal feel of the event.

Beyond the shopping and entertainment, the Christkindl Markt continued to support its charitable mission. Proceeds help fund scholarships for students studying the German language and support cultural programming throughout the year, including Eisenhower Park’s German Night in partnership with Nassau County.

Buck noted that the market not only celebrates German heritage, but also encourages the community to shop local during the holiday season. Many of the vendors are neighbors sharing crafts and goods they create themselves, reinforcing the event’s hometown appeal.

“This is always such a great way to start off the holiday season,” Buck said. And with festive sights, sounds and traditions woven through every corner of the park, this year’s Christkindl Markt once again delivered on that promise.

Plattduetsche Park Restaurant is at 1132 Hempstead Turnpike in Franklin Square. More information is available at ParkRestaurant.com.

Holden Leeds/Herald photos

Local shoppers flood the Plattduetsche’s Christkndl Markt the weekend after Thanksgiving, kicking off a season of gift buying — and gift giving.

David Wayne purchased a snowman from Margret Strievski and Heide Martens.

Richard Risi, Taylor Simpson and Jordan Coene of Once Upon a Daydream Parties took center stage as the event’s carolers.

Julia Kilgus and William Vargas showed off some holiday finds.

An abundance of fresh-smelling candles were available for purchase. Carolyn Maffei picked up one, at a booth run by Andrea Maffei.

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Future

Estate Planning for the Estranged Child (Part Two)

Early on, we learned the estate planning phrase “There’s nothing so unequal as the equal treatment of unequals.” Who has children that are all the same?

Some children have received significant help from parents during their lifetimes while others haven’t. Many parents choose the “forgiveness provision” to address this situation at death, to either “equalize” any gifts made to some children during lifetime with those who did not or, in the alternative, to “forgive” any loans made to children and then make a gift in like amount to each of the other children by inheritance, before the estate is divvied up in equal shares. Conversely, lifetime gifts may also be ignored.

Next up is the problem of children who are partially or wholly estranged. Many clients wish to leave them a token amount but there are pitfalls to consider. One who is left considerably less than their siblings will often be angry and upset. They may demand that their siblings disclose what they received and even to pony up an equal share. Not only that, but the burden of telling that estranged

child they are getting less and delivering the paltry amount is left to the children who you wish to favor!

In our view, it is sometimes better to leave an estranged child out altogether than to stir up all the issues surrounding an inheritance much smaller than equal.

There are many valid reasons, however, to treat children differently. Some may have alcohol or substance abuse issues, learning disabilities or special needs, they may be immature and irresponsible, poor at handling money or a “soft touch” and, finally, they may have a spouse that dominates them and you do not want to see that controlling spouse get your money.

Sometimes parents leave more to the “needy” child, the old adage being that “the tongue always turns to the aching tooth”. If so, other children’s feelings may need to addressed. A letter to be opened after your death, explaining what you did and why, may go a long way towards soothing hurt feelings and avoiding misunderstandings, what we term the “emotional legacy”.

ETTINGER LAW FIRM

Several people arrested for multiple larcenies in Nassau

The Nassau County Police Department has arrested four Bridgeport, Connecticut residents in connection with a series of alleged grand larcenies committed across Nassau County throughout 2025, police said.

According to detectives, an extensive investigation led to the Dec. 3 arrests of Cosmina Caldararu, 39; Laura Calin, 33; Alexendru Dumitru, 36; and Constantin Dumitru, 41, all of 122 Walnut Street in Bridgeport.

Investigators said the thefts involved the removal of jewelry from victims in multiple Nassau communities.

Police report that on July 28, 2025, Caldararu allegedly stole jewelry from an 18-year-old man in Uniondale.

On Oct. 3, 2025, Caldararu and Constantin Dumitru allegedly took jewelry from an 84-year-old man in Baldwin.

On Nov. 26, 2025, Caldararu, Calin and Alexendru Dumitru allegedly removed jewelry from a 94-year-old woman in Oceanside.

Two days later, on Nov. 28, the same three defendants allegedly stole jewelry

from a 66-year-old man in Franklin Square.

On Nov. 29, Caldararu, Calin and Alexendru Dumitru allegedly removed jewelry from a 79-year-old woman in Valley Stream.

And on Nov. 30, Caldararu and Alexendru Dumitru allegedly took jewelry from a 70-year-old woman and a 68-yearold man, also in Valley Stream.

Caldararu is charged with seven counts of fourth-degree grand larceny and three counts of fifth-degree conspiracy. Alexendru Dumitru is charged with five counts of fourth-degree grand larceny and three counts of fifth-degree conspiracy. Calin faces four counts of fourth-degree grand larceny and two counts of fifth-degree conspiracy. Constantin Dumitru is charged with fourthdegree grand larceny.

All four defendants were released on appearance tickets and later taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, police said.

–Jordan Vallone

Constantin Dumitru alexanDru Dumitru l aura Calin Cosmina CalDararu

Hofstra showing championship potential

By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com

The Hofstra men’s basketball team is showing early signs of a rebound season.

Coming off a disappointing 15-18 2024-25 campaign, Hofstra displayed its championship potential by winning three games in three days at the Cathedral Classic at the Palestra in Philadelphia Thanksgiving weekend against La Salle, Merrimack and Penn.

The Pride will need to accomplish a similar feat in early March at the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) Tournament to reach the NCAA Tournament and the Philly sweep showed fifth-year head coach Speedy Claxton his team may have the grit to cut down the nets.

“We know if we want to go to the NCAA Tournament we are going to have to win three games in three days,” said Claxton, who guided Hofstra to the NCAAs as a standout point guard in 2000. “This was good preparation work and now they know they are more than capable of doing that.”

The Pride made another statement a week later with an 80-73 win at ACC opponent Pittsburgh Hofstra returned six players from last season in which the Pride dropped several close conference games to finish 6-12 in the CAA. It was picked to finish eighth in the 13-team CAA and are looking to prove the doubters wrong with a determined core led by junior guard Cruz Davis, a St. Johns transfer who averaged 14,4 points per game for the Pride last season.

“He is way more comfortable in the offense and what we expect on both ends of the floor,” said Claxton of Davis, who tallied a career high 36 points in the Pitt win.

Graduate student guard German Plotnikov adds a veteran presence in the lineup after averaging 6.1 points and 2.7 rebounds last season. The 6-foot-5 Belarus native is a threat from three-point range who connected on 40.2 percent of his shots from beyond the arc last year.

Silas Sunday, a returning 7-foot power forward, is making strides in the paint during his third season on the Hofstra roster and posted a career high 15 points to go along with seven rebounds in a 78-58 win against Merrimack in the second game of the Cathedral Classic in Philadelphia.

Freshman Preston Edmead has quickly emerged as an offensive threat and is second on the team in scoring through 10 games which included a 23-point performance in Hofstra’s 83-77 win at Bucknell on Nov. 14. The 6-1 local product

from Deer Park averaged 24 points during his senior season at The Williston Northampton School in Massachusetts.

“He is killing it and it is because he works so hard,” said Claxton of Edmead. “Typically, if you love basketball you are going to do well here at Hofstra and he is someone who loves it and is in the gym throughout the day working on his craft.”

Hofstra also added some inside strength with 6-10 forward/center Victory Onuetu, a standout in Spain who competed in the FIBA U20 European

Championship. Onuetu nearly tallied a double-double in an 81-73 loss at Iona on Nov. 7 with 13 points and nine rebounds.

Biggie Patterson, a 6-7 Iona transfer, adds another weapon in the paint who registered eight rebounds and tied a career high with three blocks in the Merrimack win.

Claxton pieced together a challenging non-conference schedule to prepare Hofstra for the rigors of conference play which includes a road tilt at Syracuse this Saturday at 4 p.m. airing on ACC Network. The Pride also tipped off the season with a closely contested 82-78 loss at Big 12 foe Central Florida.

“We always want to schedule tough,” Claxton said. “Playing hard games in non-conference prepares you well for conference play.”

Hofstra opens up the CAA schedule with a Dec. 29 home game against Campbell at 7 p.m. The Pride closes the regular season hosting Long Island rival Stony Brook on Feb. 28. and longtime conference rival Drexel on March 3.

Cruz Davis, right, averaged 14.4 points per game last season.

Photos courtesy Hofstra Athletics Communications Preston Edmead is off to an impressive freshman campaign.

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‘He’s incredibly dedicated to his craft’

I ended up tearing my bicep — and so the recovery process went from there.”

“We were sparring in the gym, and we looked at his bicep and found swelling,” Sosa added. “He went to the hospital, and it became a three-year journey. Then, in his comeback match, he looked great.”

In late-November, James took on Braulio Matias Ferreira of Uruguay in his first match back from injury. Not only did he face a daunting task in overcoming his first match in three years, but this had added stakes — the chance to win the National Boxing Association middleweight title.

It took a full 12 rounds of boxing for a judge’s decision to determine the winner. In a unanimous decision, James won, clinching his second championship in as many weight classes.

“It felt great to be able to showcase my talents again after all these years,” James said.

“A lot of the times when you take a hiatus, especially that of three years, it becomes very hard for you to get back into rhythm,” William added. “It just makes (James’) victory that much more impressive.”

Clutching the coveted NBA middleweight title in his hands was a signature moment for James, who idolized boxing great and former national boxing title holder Roy Jones Jr.

“(Jones) is my idol, he was a legend to me,” said James. “The way that he could move around the ring at will _ when the opportunity came available to hoist the same belt that he did, I knew it was something I had to grab.”

James has also worked with other boxing greats like Terence Crawford, featuring as a sparring partner with the 18-time world champion.

“(Crawford) messaged me before my fight, wishing

“He’s a hidden gem that most people haven’t seen yet in the boxing world,” Sosa said. “Hopefully he gets the chance to show the world how great of a boxer he really is, before he retires.”

While James’ next opponent is currently unknown, he’s currently signed with boxing promoter and New York Boxing Hall of Famer Joe DeGuardia — setting him up for a bright future.

me good luck, making sure that I’ll win,” James said. Although he might not currently have recognition like Crawford, those around James believe that his unmatchable work ethic - paired together with his undefeated record in professional matches this farwill launch him into the spotlight soon.

Reach Local Shoppers Using Their FSA Dollars!

No matter the moment, whether it be the setback of an injury or the clutch of a championship belt, James had a message for his younger self.

“I’d tell myself to keep going, don’t ever let anyone tell you what you can’t do,” said James. “Your hard work will pay off, and I’ll see you at the top.”

James, who also goes by the ring name “pretty Boy,” celebrated winning the national Boxing association’s middleweight title, the same belt won by his idol and boxing superstar, roy Jones, Jr.

Photos courtesy Tyrone James tyrone James prepares to fight in one of the many rings that he’s stepped into during his boxing career.

Long Island Opens 24/7 Crisis Center

CN Guidance addresses behavioral health needs with groundbreaking facility.

By: Olivia Sims

When someone on Long Island experiences a behavioral health crisis, immediate and appropriate care has historically been difficult to access. Families often relied on emergency rooms, law enforcement, or outpatient services with long waits, navigating a system that can feel overwhelming in urgent moments.

A new option is now emerging in Hicksville. CN Guidance & Counseling Services, a trusted behavioral health nonprofit serving Long Island for more than 50 years, is opening one of the region’s first Intensive Crisis Stabilization Centers, the Community Crisis Center (CCC). Opening December 6th, the CCC will provide 24/7, yearround, walk-in care for individuals experiencing mental health or substance use crises.

Filling a Critical Gap in Crisis Care

The CCC bridges a longstanding gap in Long Island’s “Crisis Continuum” by offering a dedicated place for stabilization and immediate support before connecting individuals to longerterm community services. By reducing unnecessary emergency room visits and easing pressure on first responders, the center helps residents access timely, appropriate care in a safe, supportive environment.

It also strengthens CN Guidance’s existing continuum of behavioral health programs while aligning with New York State’s broader strategy to build a more connected and compassionate crisis response system.

The need is urgent. Long Island continues to face challenges tied to opioids and synthetic drug use, youth mental health issues, and economic stressors. Reduced healthcare funding threatens to deepen these issues, increasing barriers to care.

“Crisis stabilization centers support and enhance our ability to quickly respond to New Yorkers experiencing a behavioral health crisis so they can avoid higher levels of care and unnecessary emergency room visits,” said Dr. Ann Sullivan, Commissioner of the New York State Office of Mental Health.

CCC Groundbreaking in Nov 2024: L to R: James O’Brien, CN Guidance Board President; Jeffrey Friedman, CN Guidance CEO; Brian Peterson, OMH Long Island Field Office; Maria Morris, NY OASAS; Anissa Moore, Deputy Nassau County Executive – Health & Human Services; Elaine Phillips, Nassau County Comptroller

“CN Guidance’s Community Crisis Center will provide a welcoming and supportive resource for Long Islanders who need care within their community.”

Collaboration in Action

The CCC is the result of extensive partnership between CN Guidance, Nassau County, and New York State agencies including the Office of Mental Health (OMH) and the Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS).

“From state and county agencies to law enforcement, social services, and dozens of organizations, each partner helped bring this center from vision to reality,” said Mary Silberstein, Senior Director of External Affairs.

“This collaborative model allows us to deliver urgent, compassionate care to individuals aged 5 and up experiencing acute mental health or substance use crises.”

During planning, CN Guidance engaged more than 55 community partners and received over 50 letters of support, including:

13 community-based service providers

local government and state representatives from OMH and OASAS

15 crisis response organizations, including 8 law enforcement departments

5 educational institutions

Numerous hospitals, healthcare systems, harm reduction providers, and residential organizations

These partnerships show a shared commitment to reshaping crisis care so individuals receive timely support rather than defaulting to emergency rooms or law enforcement intervention.

“This center will offer 24/7 urgent walk-in care for anyone experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis,” said Jeffrey Friedman, CEO of CN Guidance. “We’re grateful to New York State, Nassau County, and our regional partners for supporting the Community Crisis Center’s launch.”

24/7 Care Tailored to Every Need

The CCC is staffed by a multidisciplinary team of registered nurses, licensed behavioral health professionals, psychiatric nurse practitioners, certified peer specialists, substance use counselors, and behavioral health technicians. Services include:

Rapid assessment and health monitoring

Mental health screening and observation

Peer counseling and recovery support

Medication-assisted treatment for substance use

Aftercare planning and coordination

The 6,000-square-foot traumainformed facility offers separate areas for children and families and a dedicated first responder entrance, ensuring safety and dignity. Services are available regardless of ability to pay, with insurance and Medicare accepted.

Building a Healthier Future

Designed using local stakeholder input and best practices from successful stabilization centers nationwide, the CCC places Long Island among a growing group of New York communities investing in crisis stabilization as a cornerstone of behavioral health reform.

As CN Guidance expands outreach and strengthens community partnerships, the center’s impact will extend well beyond its walls, helping shape a safer and healthier future for Long Island residents.

For more information on the CCC or to access support, call 516-390-6544 or visit

Community Crisis Center exterior

Elmont community celebrates holiday season

Elmont families and neighbors filled Veterans Plaza on the evening of Dec. 4 for the community’s combined Christmas Tree and Menorah Lighting Ceremony. Hosted by the Elmont Chamber of Commerce, the celebration brought together residents of all backgrounds to welcome the holiday season with light, music, and tradition. Against a crisp December sky, attendees watched as both displays — the Christmas tree and the menorah were illuminated, symbolizing unity and warmth during a festive time of year.

The event highlighted the Chamber’s commitment to community spirit and inclusion, celebrating the diverse ways families in Elmont mark the season. The lighting served as a joyful kickoff to December, reminding neighbors of the power of coming together.

–Jordan Vallone

Alice Moreno/Herald photos

Dancers from Tip Tap Toe performed sets to a variety of Christmas music.

The Elmont community was illuminated on Dec. 4 as neighbors gathered for a Christmas tree and menorah lighting, hosted by the Elmont Chamber.

Students from Meacham Daycare danced to Christmas music.

Everyone’s favorite ‘Man in Red’ was in attendance, spreading holiday cheer.

State Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick extended well-wishes to those attending.

Cradle of Aviation welcomes Katie Ledecky

By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

Catholic Health teamed up last week with the legendary swimmer Katie Ledecky, a world record holder and a 14-time Olympic medalist, for a presentation at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City.

Ledecky, a New York Times bestselling author and the most decorated female swimmer in history, spoke to nearly 250 area Catholic middle and high school students, many of them swimmers, on Dec. 1.

Welcomed by Andy Parton, president of the Cradle of Aviation, they crowded into the museum’s Catholic Health Sky Theater Planetarium to listen to Ledecky’s discussion with Dr. Patrick O’Shaughnessy, president and CEO of Catholic Health, the nonprofit health care system.

Ledecky was just 15, and the youngest member of the U.S. Olympic team, when she won her first gold medal at the 2012 Games in London.

“I can think of no better human being than Katie Ledecky to personally inspire us with her journey,” O’Shaughnessy said. She shared some of the highlights of that journey, and discussed her role, since July, as a health and wellness ambassador for Catholic

Health. She graduated from Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart, a Catholic school in Bethesda, Maryland, in 2015.

“And I think I just really love all the messaging and the support that Catholic Health gives to this community, and the resources that you provide, and the opportunities — and, of course, the health care as well,” Ledecky told O’Shaughnessy. “So just to help spread that message and be a voice for healthy living, it’s such a great match, and I’m happy that this relationship has brought

me here today, and we have a lot more on the horizon.”

She also spoke of her plans for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, and offered the young swimmers in the audience some advice. She swims 20 to 25 hours a week, she said, and spends another five to six hours in the gym. “All those hours are very important, and that sounds like a lot of time,” Ledecky said, “but really, it’s the hours away from the pool and away from the gym that are just as important. I consider those hours

part of my training as well, because if I’m not doing the things I need to do outside of the pool or outside of the gym, then I’m not going to be able to be at my best when I’m physically doing the work.”

After meeting Ledecky at a conference, O’Shaughnessy said, he knew they would be a great fit to partner together. “We’d like to bring more educational symposiums where we can talk more about what it takes to really maintain health and wellness and commitment to achieving your goals in life,” he told the Herald. “And I think you’ll see more of these types of forums that we’re going to do with Katie, where we can have interactive sessions with members of the community and talk about how we make our community a thriving, healthy environment.”

“Health, wellness and goal setting have been important parts of my life since childhood, which is why it was so meaningful to speak with Long Island students about prioritizing their wellbeing—athletes and non-athletes alike,” Ledecky told the Herald. “We’re all at our best when we’re working toward our goals, and I’m grateful that my partnership with Catholic Health has helped to share that message across Long Island.”

For more information on Catholic Health, visit CatholicHealthLI.org

Alyssa R. Griffin/Herald

Katie Ledecky and Dr. Patrick O’Shaughnessy discussed her partnership with Catholic Health as a health and wellness ambassador.

Long Island’s Top Chiefs honored for leadership

By ABIGAIL GRIECO agrieco@liherald.com

Across Long Island, the business community often runs on the daily work of executives who set direction, solve problems and keep their organizations moving forward.

That work took center stage at the Heritage Club at Bethpage, where the 2025 Top Chief Officers of Long Island were celebrated for shaping the island’s economic and civic landscape on Nov. 19, which included President & CEO of Lessing’s Hospitality Group, Michael Lessing, who also owns the Heritage Club.

Hosted by the Herald and produced by RichnerLive, the event honored chief officers whose leadership, innovation and dedication have marked them as standouts in their industry. This year’s keynote speaker, Isao “Sammy” Kobayashi, president and CEO of Canon U.S.A., was presented with the Innovator of the Year award.

“These CEOs, COOs, CFOs, CMOs, CROs, regional presidents and more are creating the opportunities that strengthen our communities,” said Stuart Richner, CEO of Richner Communications & Publisher of the Herald Community Media. “They are what help make Long Island one of the most important engines of our nation.”

A portion of the evening’s proceeds supported Dream68, a foundation created by former NFL player Gary Brown, which provides assistance to underserved youth and their families across Long Island.

Kristin Thorne, a five-time Emmy Award-winning investigative host and reporter, emceed the program.

Kirthi Mani, chief people officer at CLA was recognized for leadership in accounting. She serves on the firm’s board of directors, overseeing learning initiatives.

“I know there’s a lot of fear around AI, but I want to emphasize hope in the next year for the future,” Mani said.

Sheila Kurman, chief human resources officer at Prager Metis CPAs, was also honored in the accounting category. With more than 20 years in human resources, she leads the firm’s HR strategy.

“It has been wonderful, truly wonderful, to celebrate with all the other award winners who are proud to join me tonight,” Kurman said.

For leadership in engineering, Mohammed H. Malik, chief operating officer of M&J Engineering, D.P.C., was honored. Malik leads strategic direction and client engagement at the firm.

“To even reach this moment in my personal life, there’s a lot of people behind me, especially my family,” he said.

In the finance category, SBA director at BankUnited, Michael Marrero, was honored. He oversees SBA lending and plans to expand the bank’s SBA presence next year.

“We’re really piggybacking off that

successful commercial presence we have here,” Marrero said, “and bringing more of the retail banking and SBA lending to the community.”

LifeVac LLC, president Laura Bonelli received the award for innovation in health care. The company, founded in 2014, produces a noninvasive airway-cleaning device credited with saving 5,000 lives worldwide in 31 countries.

“I’m so honored and grateful to be here tonight and to be able to bring attention to what we do,” Bonelli said.

Frank Palma, General Manager & Chief Engagement Officer of Liberty Coca-Cola Beverages, LLC, was recognized for excellence in manufacturing and distribution. With 27 years at Coca-Cola, Palma oversees operations across New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

“When I look around the room and see so many people who are successful at giving back to the community, it’s all worth it,” he said.

Katherine Fritz, newly appointed president and CEO of Long Island Cares, was honored for her work in nonprofit.

“Advocacy regarding food insecurity is going to be something really big for Long Island Cares in 2026,” Fritz said.

Tammy Severino, president and CEO of Girl Scouts of Suffolk County, was also honored. A former troop leader, Severino brings decades of leadership in nonprofit strategy and development.

“With a lot of the environmental uncertainty that is around, we are put -

ting programs together to help girls feel confident,” she said.

In the realm of technology, CEO of Naka Technologies, Anil Jagtiani, was recognized. Naka launched in 2017, growing from a local operation into a North American IT solutions provider.

“It’s the greatest thing just seeing a whole community come together,” Jagtiani said.

Ronald Fatoullah, Esq., CELA,

chair of the Elder Law Practice Group and partner in the Trusts and Estates Practice Group at Meltzer, Lippe, Goldstein & Breitstone, LLP, was honored for legal leadership.

“I want to make sure that seniors can protect all of their assets and lead a really good life in the future,” Fatoullah said.

To view all Honorees and pictures, please visit www.richnerlive.com.

Photo credit: Tim Baker and Holden Leeds/Herald photos Hundreds gathered to celebrate the Herald Top Chief Officer honorees.

Amy Newman, senior vice president, Administration from Canon U.S.A introducing a video presentation of Isao “Sammy” Kobayashi, President of Canon who was the event’s keynote speaker.

President, Sean Acosta, Property Tax Reduction Consultants.

Chief Executive Officer, Billy Haugland II, Haugland Group.

President & CEO, Katherine Fritz, Long Island Cares. Special volunteer from Guide Dogs Foundation and American VetDogs.

Robert M. Gitto from The Gitto Group with Stuart Richner.

Chief People Officer, Kirthi Mani, CLA with her team.

Dennis Daniels entertaining the crowd while accepting the award for President, Benjamin Coggiano from Walter F. Cameron Advertising.

Chief Operations Officer, Mohammad H. Malik, M&J Engineering, D.P.C. with Herald Publisher, Stuart Richner.

President & CEO, Anne Brigis from YMCA Long Island.

CELA, Chair Elder Law Practice Group and Partner Trusts & Estates Practice Group, Ronald Fatoullah from Meltzer, Lippe, Goldstein & Breitstone, LLP.

The Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes for 2025–2026 runs through January 4, 2026 at Radio City Music Hall in Manhattan.

On many days there are multiple shows per

1

The Rockettes have been a cherished New York City holiday tradition since 1933. Their first appearance in the inaugural Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall firmly established them as an essential part of the city’s seasonal celebrations. Over the decades, the show has expanded into one of New York’s most beloved annual events, drawing both locals and tourists. Though the production continually evolves—incorporating advanced stage technology, refreshed choreography, and updated narrative elements—it preserves classic numbers like the iconic “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers.” For many families, attending the Christmas Spectacular has become a multigenerational ritual, cementing the Rockettes as enduring symbols of the holiday spirit in New York.

2

day, including a matinee, afternoon, evening, late show.

The official website to buy tickets is rockettes.com/christmas. You can also get tickets via major ticket platforms such as Ticketmaster

The Rockettes are internationally renowned for their extraordinary precision dance techniques. Their reputation centers on impeccable timing, unity, and their signature “eye-high” kicks performed in a flawlessly straight line. Achieving this level of synchronicity requires significant strength, flexibility, and stamina, especially during the demanding holiday performance schedule. Dancers train yearround to maintain the conditioning necessary for repeated shows. Height uniformity—traditionally between 5’6” and 5’10½”—helps create the seamless, uniform line that has become a visual hallmark of the troupe. Their choreography fuses tap, jazz, ballet, and modern dance into a distinctive hybrid style recognized worldwide.

at Radio City Music Hall

and in person at the Radio City Music Hall box office. The show runs about 90 minutes with no intermission.

Five things to know:

3

Their auditions are famously rigorous and attract dancers from across the country. Each year, thousands of hopefuls come to New York to compete for a coveted spot in the lineup. The audition process involves multiple rounds in which dancers must quickly learn and perform complex combinations with absolute precision. Beyond technical excellence, candidates are judged on how well they blend with the group in both appearance and style—a defining aspect of the Rockettes. Even after being selected, dancers undergo weeks of intensive rehearsals, often lasting six hours a day, to build the synchronization and endurance needed.

4

The troupe’s origins trace back to the American Midwest. Before becoming synonymous with Radio

City Music Hall, the Rockettes began in St. Louis in 1925 under choreographer Russell Markert as the “Missouri Rockets.” Inspired by European precision dance ensembles, the group gained popularity and eventually caught the attention of Radio City’s management. After several transformations and expansions, they relocated to New York, where they became a defining feature of the venue.

5

During the holiday season, the Rockettes may perform up to four shows daily. These 90-minute performances require exceptional discipline, from executing rapid costume changes to sustaining high energy and flawless precision. This demanding schedule highlights the remarkable athleticism and professionalism that enable the dancers to

STEPPING OUT

Baking up holiday cheer

‘Tis the season munch on a cookie

By Karen Bloom

There’s nothing quite like the smell of cookies baking to say “home for the holidays.”

Share the joy straight from your oven by gathering friends and family for a festive baking day. Mix, roll, bake, laugh — and, of course, taste — as everyone contributes to a tray (or two) of homemade treats.

For many households, holiday baking is a cherished tradition, and it only gets sweeter when shared. Turn the kitchen into a holiday workshop: assign roles for measuring, mixing and decorating, turn up the seasonal music, and let creativity and sprinkles fly.

Even refresh those holiday favorites. Chocolate chip and gingerbread cookies are classics, but find inspiration in trying something new, such as Peppermint Mocha Chip Cookies might become a fast new favorite.

Peppermint Mocha Chip Cookies

Notes of crisp peppermint perfectly complement the flavors of coffee and semi-sweet chocolate morsels. Add a crushed peppermint to each cookie to create a beautiful and seasonal presentation.

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 3 cups Nestle Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels, divided

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

• 3 teaspoons instant coffee

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract

• 3 large eggs

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 12 soft peppermint candies, crushed Preheat oven to 375° F. Grease or line baking sheet with parchment paper.

Melt butter and 1 cup chocolate morsels in medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly, until smooth.

Transfer chocolate mixture into a large mixer bowl; add sugar and beat until combined. Add coffee granules, vanilla extract and peppermint

Elon Gold

Close out 2025 with some laughs with comedian Elon Gold, best known for his relatable takes on being Jewish and getting through the weirdness of life. Considered by many to be this generation’s Borscht Belt King, he’s no stranger to those who watch Netflix. His act brings laughs to both Jews and non-Jews alike all over the world. He’s made dozens of memorable appearances on late-night talk shows and TV series, especially his hilarious recurring role as Head of Hulu on “Curb Your Enthusiasm” opposite Larry David. His one hour Netflix stand-up special, “Elon Gold: Chosen & Taken” received wide acclaim from audiences and peers alike and is currently streaming on Amazon Prime. His routines have gone viral and are shared by millions around the globe. Most recently, Elon can be seen in a recurring role on Season 11 of HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” and will be in the upcoming Kal Penn feature, “Trust Me, I’m A Doctor,” among other projects.

extract; beat just until combined. Beat in eggs. Add flour and baking powder, mixing until all is incorporated. Fold in remaining 2 cups chocolate morsels.

Scoop dough onto prepared baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart, using a medium size cookie scoop. Sprinkle each cookie with a little of the crushed peppermint candies.

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until cookies are set. Allow to cool for about 2 minutes on baking sheet and then remove to a wire rack to cool completely. Makes 36 cookies.

Hanukkah Sugar Cookies

Hanukkah is more than latkes. Celebrate the Festival of Lights in style with these tasty bites.

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup butter, softened

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 tsp. vanilla

• 2 cups flour

• Colored sugar or decorating icings

Beat first 4 ingredients in large bowl with mixer until well blended. Add flour; mix well. Cover. Refrigerate several hours or overnight.

Heat oven to 350° F. Roll out dough to 1/8-inch-thickness on lightly floured surface. Cut into shapes with 2-inch cookie cutters; sprinkle with colored sugar. Or, leave plain to frost later with decorating icing (after cookies are baked and cooled). Place on baking sheets.

Bake 12 to 15 min. or until edges are lightly browned. Remove to wire racks. Cool completely. Frost and decorate as desired.

Melted Snowman

These cookies are cute tasty holiday treat.

• 3/4 cup butter, softened

• 3/4 cup white sugar

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 egg

• 1 tablespoon milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

Decorations:

• 12 large marshmallows

• 3 cups confectioners’ sugar

• 1/4 cup water

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

• 1 drop red food coloring, or as desired

• 1 drop yellow food coloring, or as desired

Preheat oven to 350 F.

Beat butter in a bowl using an electric mixer until fluffy, about 2 minutes. Beat white sugar, baking powder, and salt into butter until just combined. Beat egg, milk, and vanilla extract into butter-sugar mixture; add flour and mix until dough is just combined. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until dough is slightly chilled, about 10 minutes.

Scoop dough into balls slightly larger than golf balls; flatten into cookies. Arrange cookies on a baking sheet.

Bake in the preheated oven until edges are golden brown, 10 to 20 minutes. Cool on baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely, at least 30 minutes.

Butter a microwave-safe plate. Place marshmallows on the prepared plate.

Microwave marshmallows until slightly puffed, 10 to 15 seconds. Gently press marshmallows until bottoms slightly ooze.

Whisk confectioners’ sugar and water together in a bowl until icing is slightly thicker than drizzleconsistency. Pour icing over cookies so it runs over the edges, reserving about 1 tablespoon.

Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe glass or ceramic bowl, about 30 seconds. Pour melted chocolate into a piping bag with a small tip or a plastic bag with a corner snipped.

Press 1 marshmallow close to an edge of each cookie to be the snowman’s head. Draw “stick arms” onto the icing using the melted chocolate.

Divide the reserved 1 tablespoon icing into 2 small bowls. Mix red food coloring into 1 of the bowls and orange food coloring into the other bowl. Decorate the snowmen with scarves or ties using the red icing and yellow icing.

Tuesday, Dec. 16, 7:30 p.m. $76.25 and $54.25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny. com.

‘A Celtic Christmas’

An annual sold-out tradition everywhere they perform, Cherish The Ladies returns to celebrate the holiday season. Led by the charismatic flute and whistle virtuoso Joanie Madden —a National Endowment for the Arts National Heritage Award Winner — they’ve brought their signature blend of virtuosic instrumental talents, vocals and step dancing to the White House, the Olympics and to PBS, in addition to concert halls. Their beloved Celtic Christmas program is a festive, family-friendly concert featuring their signature sound on classic carols. Each song is beautifully arranged to showcase their Celtic instrumentation, rich harmonies and remarkable step dancing. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, this annual Christmas tour has been complemented by four acclaimed holiday albums. Etraordinary step dancers elevate the concert, featuring five-time World Champion David Geaney and All Britain Champion and Riverdance alumnus Noel Spillane, among others.

Tuesday, Dec. 16, 7:30 p.m. $48, $43, $38. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.

Peppermint Mocha Chip Cookies Hanukkah Sugar Cookies

Melted Snowman

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CALENDAR

DEC

11

‘Home for the Holidays’ Pet Adoption

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 microchipping. Preview the cats and dogs online at Hempsteadny.gov/179/ animal-shelter.

• Where: 3320 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh

• Time: Ongoing, through Jan. 4

• Contact: (516) 785-5220

‘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. The sets include the living room, the kitchen, and other areas of the house. Visitors will also be able to 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

LuminoCity Festival

LuminoCity is back at Eisenhower Park. Walk through a winter wonderland. Timed admission fee.

• Where: Eisenhower Park, East Meadow

• Time: 4:30-5:15 p.m., 6-6:45 p.m., 7:30-8:15 p.m., through Jan. 1

• Contact: luminocityfestival.com

On Exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art invites visitors into a world where reality is uncertain, dreams take shape, and the line between fact and imagination disappears. Works in “Real, Surreal, and Photoreal” challenge what we see and what we believe. Before abstraction took the spotlight in the mid-20th century, American artists captured the world as they saw it. This exhibit explores how artists across generations have reimagined

20 DEC

‘Rockin’ the Holidays’ with The Rascals

If you’re already humming holiday tunes and craving a little rock ‘n’ roll spirit, here’s your chance to celebrate in timeless style. Rockin’ the Holidays brings The Rascals back to the stage — joined by special guests John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band — for a concert packed with energy, nostalgia and chart-topping hits.

hockey program and team for military veterans, active military and reserves, for a special hockey clinic for kids in conjunction with the museum’s popular Snowflake Skating exhibit programming. Kids who want to up their sock skating game are encouraged to participate. Warriors players will teach kids about stick handling and passing as they master wrist and slap shots on the LICM’s popular sock skating “ice.” Free for ages three and up with museum admission.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

DEC

18

Gilded Age Holiday

Two of The Rascals’ founding members, Felix Cavaliere and Gene Cornish, reunite for this festive performance, fueled by a deep love for their fans and the enduring power of their music. With accolades that include induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Grammy Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, The Rascals remain icons of American rock and the defining sound of 1960s blue-eyed soul. Their legacy shines through 17 Top 20 hits, seven Top 10 singles and three No. 1 classics — among them “Groovin’,” “People Got to Be Free” and “Good Lovin’.” Audiences can expect all the favorites, plus holiday flair and the warm, soulful harmonies that made The Rascals unforgettable. “We’re so grateful for the fans — this is for them,” Cavaliere shares. Cornish echoes the sentiment: “This gives us another chance to play together and do it for the fans.” A night of feel-good music, memories and holiday cheer awaits — the perfect way to rock your way into the season.

“the real” in strikingly different ways. Works from both American and European artists are featured. On view through March 8.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: Ongoing

DEC

12

‘Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus! The Musical’

Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes back this delightful production, based on Mo Willems’ awardwinning “Pigeon” picture books. Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! is even more fun than staying up late and having a hot dog party. It’s not easy being the Pigeon — you never get to do anything. But when the Bus Driver has a crisis that threatens to make her passengers (gasp!) late, maybe that wily bird can do something. Featuring an innovative mix of songs, and feathers, this show is sure to get everyone’s wings flapping. $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: 10:15 a.m. and noon.; also Dec. 13, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; Dec. 17-18

• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

DEC

13

‘Holiday Harmony Spectacular!’

Join L.I. Cabaret Theatre for their latest performance at Elmont Memorial Library. In this special holiday show, “A Musical Wonderland,” cast of 30, plus special guests, keeps the action moving along, with a live band. The singers and dancers perform the best holiday songs of all time and more. Free admission.

• Where: 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont

• Time: 2 p.m.

• Contact: licabaret@aol.com or (516) 946-7207

Jar Of Hot Cocoa

As the weather gets chillier, everyone can use a nice warm sweet treat. Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes all to come by and make some hot cocoa in a jar. Pick your own toppings and decorate your jar. This is a drop-in activity.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: Noon-2 p.m.

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

• Where: Flagstar at Westbury Music Fair, 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: livenation.com

Holiday fun at Westbury House

Step into the magic of Christmas at Old Westbury Gardens’ Westbury House! Bring the kids a festive night filled with holiday fun! Explore, through a self-guided tour, the beautifully decorated mansion with a special Christmas scavenger hunt. Get creative at Christmas craft stations, making holiday keepsakes to take home. Meet Santa Claus himself, share your wish list and snap a photo to capture the moment. Enjoy delicious cookies and cider in our West Porch. The party features Lucky Duck Puppets’ holiday show, at 7 p.m.The Winter Holiday Puppet Show is an original story about Greg, a North Pole penguin trying to find his place in the world and how he can help spread holiday cheer! $25, $22 ages 3-12 (20% member discount. Advance registration required.

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: 6-8 p.m.

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

Hockey clinic

DEC

14

Long Island Children’s Museum hosts the Long Island Warriors, a nonprofit recreational

Visit Old Westbury Gardens’ Westbury House for a tasty holiday gathering. It was during the Gilded Age that many of the Christmas traditions still celebrated in America today first became part of mainstream culture. From sugar plums to plum pudding, each recipe in ‘The Gilded Age Christmas Cookbook” offers a colorful glimpse into the era. The program, based on the book, explores the holiday lore of the time, sharing the origins of beloved customs Treats from the cookbook are available to sample, with books available for purchase. $30 per person. Registration required.

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: 7-8:30 p.m.

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

DEC

22

Franklin Square Library Board meets

Franklin Square Library holds its next board meeting. All are welcome.

• Where: 19 Lincoln Road

• Time: 6:30 p.m.

• Contact: FranklinSquarePL.org or (516) 488-3444

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.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: Sunny Sparrow Farm LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 9/5/2025. NY Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as an agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: ZenBusiness Inc., 41 State Street, Suite 112, Albany, NY 12207.

Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity 156937

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2013-TT2, BY U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS LEGAL TITLE TRUSTEE, Plaintiff, vs. ALEXANDER DAVIS, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on April 17, 2018 and an Order Extending Sale Deadline and Other Relief duly entered on October 17, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 7, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 77 Roquette Avenue a/k/a 77 Rouquette Avenue, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Elmont, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 32, Block 360 and Lots 26, 27 and 28. Approximate amount of judgment is $369,881.33 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 003700/2015.

Oliver E. Roche, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 231754-1 157043

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR ARGENT SECURITIES INC., ASSET-BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006M1, Plaintiff, Against LYSTRA M. RAMRATTAN AS HEIR AND ADMINISTRATRIX TO THE ESTATE OF SURDASH RAMRATTAN; RANDALL S. RAMRATTAN AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF SURDASH RAMRATTAN; LYSTRA M. RAMRATTAN AS GUARDIAN OF CHELSEA K. R. RAMRATTAN WHO IS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF SURDASH RAMRATTAN; et al Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 01/10/2019, 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 1/5/2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 1069 Concord Street, Franklin Square, New York 11010, and described as follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Franklin Square in the Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York. Section 33 Block 380 Lot 260

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $882,483.61 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 003792/2015

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. Ellen Durst, Esq., Referee.

MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573

Dated: 11/3/2025

File Number: 17-300381 CA 157049

LEGAL NOTICE

REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

SACHEM CAPITAL CORP., Plaintiffagainst - EVAN E. BLUM, LESLIE BLUM AS TRUSTEE OF THE WALTER E. BLUM IRREVOCABLE TRUST

DATED MAY 25,2018, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on October 30, 2025. 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 the 6th day of January, 2026 at 2:30 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being near the Incorporated Village of Great Neck, Town of North Hempstead, State of New York. Premises known as 21 Brook Lane, Great Neck, NY 11023. (SBL#: 2-354-25) Approximate amount of lien $2,857,127.63 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 606957/2022. Oscar A. Prieto, Esq., Referee. Mitchell Pollack and Associates, PLLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 150 White Plains Road, Suite 310 Tarrytown, NY 10591 Tel. 914/332-0700

Dated: November 10, 2025

During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale.

156999

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU

In the Matter of the Application of THE ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH OF SAINT VINCENT DE PAUL, ELMONT, NASSAU CO., NY

a/k/a SAINT VINCENT DE PAUL, a Religious Corporation, Petitioner, For Leave to Dissolve a Religious Corporation. Index No.: 624958/2025

NOTICE OF PETITION

Date Purchased: 11/18/25

Return Date: 01/23/2026

Requested Relief: Dissolution of a religious corporation

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that upon the annexed Verified Petition of THE ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH OF SAINT

VINCENT DE PAUL, ELMONT, NASSAU CO., NY a/k/a SAINT

VINCENT DE PAUL, verified on the 4th day of November, 2025, and the exhibits annexed thereto, and upon the entire record of proceedings, the undersigned will move this Court before an IAS Part to be assigned of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, County of Nassau, at the Courthouse located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, New York on the 23rd day of January, 2026 at 9:30 in the forenoon of that day, or as soon thereafter as counsel can be heard, for an order dissolving the religious corporation pursuant to §18 of the Religious Corporation Law.

Dated: Garden City, New York November 21, 2025

DIOCESE OF ROCKVILLE CENTRE OFFICE OF THE GENERAL COUNSEL BY: MICHAEL V. FLANAGAN, ESQ.

Attorneys for Petitioners

The Roman Catholic Church of Saint Vincent De Paul, Elmont, Nassau Co., NY a/k/a Saint Vincent De Paul 992 N. Village Avenue, PO Box 9023 Rockville Centre, NY 11571-9023 (516) 678-5800 156987

LEGAL NOTICE REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

The Board of Education of the Franklin Square Union Free School District, Nassau County, New York, in accordance with Section 103 of Article 5-A of the General Municipal Law, hereby issues a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the following: PROFESSIONAL CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT SERVICES

Requests for Proposal packets may be obtained from the Business Office located at 760 Washington Street, Franklin Square, NY 11010, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, on days that school is in session or via email request to RCunningham@Frankli nSquare.k12.ny.us. Each proposal must be submitted as per the instructions provided in the RFP. Proposals will be received by the Purchasing Agent no later than 11:00am on January 14, 2026, at the Business Office located at 760 Washington Street, Franklin Square, NY 11010 at which time and place all proposals will be publicly opened and read at the same office.

The person, firm, or corporation making such proposal shall submit one (1) copy of the proposal and other required documents via email to RCunningham@Frankli nSquare.k12.ny.us or submit it in a sealed envelope addressed to Richard Cunningham, Purchasing Agent, Franklin Square UFSD, 760 Washington Street, Franklin Square, NY 11010. The envelope shall be endorsed on its face with the name and address of the person, firm, or corporation making such proposal, and clearly identified as follows:

CONSTRUCTION

MANAGEMENT

PROPOSAL FRANKLIN SQUARE UFSD

Name of Proposing Firm

The Board of Education reserves the right to reject any proposal or to accept part of any proposal. Any proposal submitted will be binding for thirty (30) days subsequent to the date of the RFP opening.

BY ORDER OF THE: BOARD OF EDUCATION

FRANKLIN SQUARE

UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT LAURA LANGSTRAND, DISTRICT CLERK 157208

LEGAL NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Public Meetings of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Elmont Fire District originally scheduled for Wednesday December 24, 2025 will be held on Tuesday December 30, 2025. Meeting will be held at the District Office, 100 School Road, Elmont, New York, at 7:00 P.M. This NOTICE is published in conformance with Section 104 of the Public Officers Law.

Dated: December 1, 2025 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS OF THE ELMONT FIRE DISTRICT ATTEST: FRANCES ANDINO DISTRICT SECRETARY 157207

LEGAL NOTICE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Franklin Square & Munson Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners will meet on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at 6:00 pm for the Closeout Meeting. The meeting will be held at Fire District Headquarters, 833 Hempstead Turnpike, Franklin Square, New York.

BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS FRANKLIN SQUARE & MUNSON FIRE DISTRICT Kerry Santina Fire District Secretary December 3, 2025 157241

LEGAL NOTICE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Franklin Square & Munson Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners will meet on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 7:30 pm for the Reorganization Meeting. The meeting will be held at Fire District Headquarters, 833 Hempstead Turnpike, Franklin Square, New York.

BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS FRANKLIN SQUARE & MUNSON FIRE DISTRICT Kerry Santina Fire District Secretary December 3, 2025 157240

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A., F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK TRUST COMPANY, N.A., AS TRUSTEE, IN TRUST FOR CHASEFLEX MULTI-CLASS MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-1 Plaintiff, Against Sung Choi a/k/a

Thomas Choi a/k/a

Thomas L. Choi a/k/a Thomas R. Choi a/k/a Tomas Choi a/k/a

Thomas Lee Choi, Capital One Bank New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, Capital One Bank (USA), NA, Atlantic City Showboat, Inc., American Express Centurion Bank, Monrovia Growers Company, Boardwalk Regency Corp. d/b/a Caesars Atlantic City, Trump Taj Mahal Associates (formerly Trump Taj Mahal Associates, L.P.) t/a Trump Taj Mahal Casino Resort, JPMorgan Chase Bank, NA, Discover Bank, Chase Bank USA, NA Chung Choi Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 11/01/2018, 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 1/13/2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 16 Park Place, Floral Park, NY 11001, 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 Incorporated Village of Floral Park, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 32 Block 65 Lot 187 and 188. The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $742,622.44 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 606764/2017 For sale information, please visit Auction.com at

www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. 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.

Scott H. Siller, Esq., Referee.

SHELDON MAY & ASSOCIATES Attorneys at Law, 255 Merrick Road, Rockville Centre, NY 11570

Dated: 11/12/2025

File Number: 32674 CA 157187

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST JACQUELINE SALMON, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered December 2, 2024, 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 January 13, 2026 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 1601 Johnson Avenue 13, Elmont, NY 11003. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Hamlet of Elmont, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 32 Block 470 Lot 27. Approximate amount of judgment $717,212.08 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #011587/2008. Scott H. Siller, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 00-120754 87890 157143

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT NASSAU COUNTY CITIMORTGAGE, INC., Plaintiff against MARIETTA DONOFRIO, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Stern & Eisenberg, P.C., 20 Commerce Drive, Suite 230, Cranford, NJ 07016 and 1131 Route 55, Suite 1, Lagrangeville, NY 12540. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale

Capturing creativity through photography

Dutch Broadway School’s fourth graders recently enhanced their technology skills and unleashed their creativity during an exciting photography unit, led by teacher’s assistant Mary Jane Havrylkoff.

Working in pairs, students set out across the school playground with iPads in hand, eager to explore their surroundings from a new perspective. Laughter and curiosity filled the air as they captured moments of joy, imagination and friendship — everything from classmates sharing a smile to the changing colors of fall.

Back in the classroom, students used the photo-editing app SnapSeed to transform their snapshots into creative works of art. Each photo was paired with an inspirational quote or original affirmation, such as “Always keep your head up, no matter what,” “Don’t be sad when things get rough,” and “One small positive action can change the course of your life.”

The project tied seamlessly into the building’s Social Emotional Learning initiatives, encouraging students to express positivity, empathy and confidence through both words and images.

The finished photographs will soon brighten the school’s hallways, serving as a visual reminder of kindness and perseverance. They’ll also be shared with administrative offices across the Elmont district to help spread positivity throughout the greater school community.

“I want the students to be inspired by what they’re doing and take it with

them to the next grade-level,” Havrylkoff said.

Principal Cynthia Qasim agreed, noting that the project reflects the school’s

Public Notices

entered September 8, 2025, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 13, 2026 at 2:00 PM. Premises known as 2318 Hoffman Avenue, Elmont, NY 11003-2841. Sec 32

Block 409 Lot 5. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land situate lying and being at Elmont, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Approximate Amount of Judgment is $115,826.80 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 616304/2023. For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832.

During the COVID-19 health emergency,

Bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of the sale including but not limited to wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Should a bidder fail to comply, the Referee may refuse to accept any bid, cancel the closing and hold the bidder in default. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed

Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Keith LaVallee, Esq., Referee File # NY202300000397-1 157196

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, EQUITY PRIME MORTGAGE LLC, Plaintiff, vs. DANIEL MENARD, ET AL., Defendant (s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on September 8, 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 January 13, 2026 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 115-43 237TH ST, 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 State of New York, Section: 32, Block: 632, Lot: 129. Approximate amount of judgment is $764,530.10 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 613400/2024. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Mortgagee’s attorney, or the Referee.

CHESTER GREENSPAN, Esq., Referee Roach & Lin, P.C., 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 185, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 157206

commitment to fostering a caring environment. “Posters help create a studentcentered environment by offering words of encouragement,” she said. “They

serve as peer-to-peer reminders for students to make good choices, persevere and keep trying.”

Students used the photo-

app,

–Jordan Vallone

Each photo was paired with a positive affirmation.

Photos courtesy Elmont Union Free School District Fourth-grade students enhanced their technology skills and unleashed their creativity in a photography unit, led by teacher assistance Mary Jane Havrylkoff.

editing

SnapSeed, to transform their photos into creative works of art.

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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. Historically, reporters who have 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

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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 fromo $16.50 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

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 $34,320 + 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

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 $34,320 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

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HomesHERALD

Buyer’s Dream Home

Don’t miss the chance to own your own private oasis right in the heart of Oceanside. This beautifully maintained home is ideally located close to everything you need houses of worship, schools, parks, pools, restaurants, and endless activities for all ages. Bright, inviting, and airy, this spacious split-level home features 4 bedrooms and 2 baths. The primary suite enjoys its own private level with an ensuite bath, offering comfort and privacy. Two additional bedrooms and a full bath

Can we add a garage now, and get the permits later?

Q. We’ve met with two architects and two contractors to figure out how we can add a garage to our house or make it free-standing. The contractors were confident the garage could be attached to the house — our first preference — but the architects told us about regulations that make the whole thing doubtful and more expensive. Each one told us about building codes and other problems with our house that might come up. One asked if our shed was legal, and whether we had proof that the second floor and the finished basement of our Cape Cod home had been permitted. We’re now wondering whether we should even do the job. Both contractors keep calling, and even saying that we should build it first and then get it permitted after. Can we do that? Should we do that?

A. You mean ask for forgiveness instead of permission, right? Can the contractors give a guarantee of your success? The way things are going these days, I’m ready to tell you to listen to the contractors and have them direct the whole mess you’ll encounter. Just see if they stick around when the expenses start for all the extra work to undo the mess.

Two things are happening right now that make things more “challenging.” One is that as building codes become stricter and building officials become less able to communicate what it means to “demonstrate compliance” — and many architects are ready to just quit working in certain communities because of this — you, the owner, become more responsible and less protected from this mess. For example, one community examiner asks to “demonstrate” compliance with mechanical requirements in order to finish a basement. Nobody told me in architecture school that I would someday be doing plans to finish a basement, but what the heck, people need an architect, and in between much larger projects here in the suburbs, it seemed like a simpler task.

But not really. That word “demonstrate” could mean that the owner will have to actually make a choice to air-condition and heat their basement, and specific equipment to do that task may have to be shown on the drawings. In reality … remember reality? In reality, I rarely see a heating or cooling system in a basement.

But your architect is being required to “demonstrate.” This leads back to the contractor, because the architect has almost no chance of selecting any mechanical system to heat or cool in a way that an independent plumber or mechanical company would agree to, much less install. Therefore, the architect is alienated from the simple project “filler” in between projects that involve professional teams of architects, engineers, contractors and construction management. Working in small communities is becoming complicated, and therefore expensive for the homeowner. Listen to the architects, unless you want the mess, and make sure the basement, finished second floor and shed are legal, or expect to spend a lot of money when the problems come up. Good luck!

© 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.

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opinions

Desperately seeking bipartisanship and compromise

Recently I took part in several WABC radio talk shows moderated by the station’s owner, New York business mogul John Catsimatidis. The topics we covered initially focused on Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s election, County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s overwhelming victory in last month’s election and the upcoming statewide race for New York governor. Among the participants were veteran political leader Craig Eaton, a former chairman of the Republican Party in Brooklyn, and David Paterson, whose decadeslong career of service included being governor, state senator and state Democratic Party chairman.

The conversations soon veered from specific races to the issue of the almost total disappearance of bipartisanship in today’s politics and government. Despite our varying political views and beliefs, we were in full agreement that needless partisanship and mindless rancor are weakening the nation’s fabric and threaten our future.

The two major American political parties were built by people whose names most of us have never heard of. They weren’t Democratic or Republican officeholders. They were philosophers whose writings moved politicians who embraced their words and used them to try to make the Democratic and Republican parties attractive to voters.

Milton Friedman was a 20thcentury American economist whose ideas were a strong influence on Republicans. Russell Kirk was a highly regarded conservative and a godfather of the conservative movement. William F. Buckley Jr. is a name my generation knows because, for a long period of time, he was the voice of staunch conservative Republicans. A handful of people have shaped the Democratic Party philosophy as well — John Dewey, John Stuart Mill, John Rawls and numerous other names that are foreign to most of us. Dewey believed in a party that enables labor rights, community organizing and local empowerment.

Let me be clear. I say this not as a blind idealist, nor as someone who believes that the old days were all love and harmony. Not after more than a halfcentury of fighting to survive the minefields of Nassau County, New York state and Washington politics! No, those days weren’t heaven on earth. But there were lines that weren’t to be crossed and responsibilities that had to be met.

Instead Dewey let it be known through channels that he would not use the devastating info: America was still at war, and Japan wasn’t aware we had broken its code. Dewey would not undermine the commander in chief in time of war, even if it meant not winning the presidency.

We can have bipartisan relationships without giving up core principles.

And this sense of basic civility certainly precedes my time in politics. A clear example was the 1944 presidential election, between President Franklin D. Roosevelt, a Democrat who was running for his fourth term, and New York Gov. Thomas E. Dewey. After 12 years in office and almost total domination of the political scene, FDR was the Republicans’ number one political enemy. They wanted him stopped at all costs.

During the campaign, Dewey was secretly informed that United States intelligence had broken Japanese code months before the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor. That meant that Dewey could hold FDR responsible for failing to act on that vital intel, or, more conspiratorially, charge that FDR intentionally allowed the attack to go forward to drag the United States into World War II.

In later years, Ronald Reagan, our most conservative president, and then House Speaker Thomas P. “Tip” O’Neill, a diehard liberal, found ways to compromise — often over an evening drink — even on third-rail issues like Social Security. More important, they never let their political differences become personal.

Even during the much more partisan years of President Bill Clinton’s administration and Newt Gingrich’s House speakership, there were historic bipartisan achievements, including welfare reform and the only balanced budget and surplus in the past half-century.

During my time in Congress, I worked closely with Clinton on foreign policy issues such as the Good Friday Agreement, which ended the centuries-old struggle in Northern Ireland, and stopping Serbian aggression in the Balkans. And domestically, I successfully urged Clinton to revive the East Side Access

project, connecting the Long Island Rail Road to Grand Central Station despite the opposition of his budget office and the lack of support from some New York Democrats.

In Congress I worked closely across the aisle on vital issues for New York, such as Sept. 11 health care and victims compensation, homeland security funding for police and first responders after 9/11, and disaster aid following Superstorm Sandy.

I was able to establish solid bipartisan relationships in Washington, with leading Democrats Chuck Schumer, Hillary Clinton, Charlie Rangel and Ed Towns, and in New York, with Paterson, Andrew Cuomo and former New York City Mayor Ed Koch, who was a source of advice and counsel for me.

All that I did with these Democrats was achieved without any of us sacrificing our core principles. These were combined efforts on issues that transcended party lines and benefited our constituents. We saved the partisan arguments for ideological issues on which we couldn’t find compromise. That’s what democracy should be all about. It worked for the betterment of the voters of my district, state and nation. We need more of it.

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

Those who ignore James Carville face oblivion

Those old philosophers shaped the two major parties, but there is currently almost no one you could name whom President Trump or President Biden relies or relied on to help make serious decisions. In many ways, Biden was a student of Franklin D. Roosevelt, who promised dozens of programs that were helpful to countless people. Trump apparently relies on nothing other than his instincts, with occasional input from his adviser Stephen Miller. Miller has strong opinions on many subjects, and Trump often has to restrain him.

F or so many voters, it’s still about the economy, as the ‘Ragin’ Cajun’ so eloquently put it.

There is one voice out there today whose message can be good for Democrats and Republicans, depending on who’s listening. I refer to James Carville. Sometimes known as the “Ragin’ Cajun,” Carville created the strategy that elected and re-elected President Bill Clinton. His plain talk has been out there for whoever wants to embrace it. His simple advice since 1992 has been, “It’s the economy, stupid.” It worked when Clinton defeated President George H.W. Bush, and in many ways it helped Donald Trump get to the White House. We are now 11 months away from another consequential election, and the

dominant political voice out there pounding the Democratic Party is Carville. He had a message for Democrats last year, when he told them to stop lecturing people and talk to them about their issues. He tried to get that message across to then Vice President Kamala Harris, but she relied on paid advisers who gave her the worst possible advice.

This year, a large group of Democrats paid attention to Carville’s counsel, and it helped them sweep numerous contests in last month’s elections. Democratic Congresswomen Mikie Sherrill and Abigail Spanberger were elected the governors of New Jersey and Virginia, respectively. California Gov. Gavin Newsom pushed through a resolution to redraw his state’s congressional map, which was approved by a landslide. Democrats won other significant contests in Georgia and Pennsylvania. The winning campaigns focused on the issue of affordability, and Trump’s unpopularity helped all of them.

Next year’s elections will be a huge challenge for both political parties. History shows that the minority party generally wins a majority of the contested seats in Congress. Current polls shows the Democrats winning a large numbers

of seats and likely taking over the House, and projections show them within three seats of taking over the Senate as well. With all this bad news, are the Republicans paying attention? Trump has reacted to the 2025 elections by insisting that the economy is great. He has claimed that prices are down, and that all of the Democratic claims to the contrary are false. Even in the face of the worst consumer confidence figures, he is living in some type of bubble and ignoring what’s really happening. He made some concessions on tariffs, but it will take time for them to have any impact.

The problem for the Republicans is that all of them are on one big ship, and Trump is the captain. The longer he continues to believe, or at least insist in public, that the economy is terrific, the more danger his passengers are in.

At the same time, pundits like Carville are pushing Democrats to stick to variations on his message. Absent a 360-degree turnaround by the GOP in the next several months, Carville’s admonition about the economy could be the winning message for Democrats, and leave Republicans looking stupid.

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.

HERALD

Act now to restore order, safety to e-mobility

New York state is undergoing a transportation transformation. Electric bikes, scooters and skateboards are no longer niche devices. They are everywhere, threading through intersections, racing down sidewalks and rapidly redefining how we move across our communities. Their convenience is undeniable. Their popularity is unmistakable. But the risks — now becoming painfully clear — demand immediate attention. The rise of unregulated electric personal mobility devices has outpaced our laws, our infrastructure and our safety systems. The result is a growing sense of disorder on our streets and a mounting toll of injuries and fatalities that can no longer be brushed aside.

This is why the introduction of S8573/ A157 by State Sen. Patricia CanzoneriFitzpatrick, of Malverne, and fellow Republican Assemblyman Sam Pirozzolo, of Staten Island, matters so profoundly. Their legislation would provide what New York currently lacks: a responsible, modern framework to ensure that these increasingly powerful devices are used safely and sanely. It would create a clear registration system through the Department of Motor Vehicles. It would require operators to be at least 16 years old, and to wear helmets. It would establish penalties for dangerous behavior. Most important, it acknowledges that the era of ignoring e-mobility regulation is over. Across the state, residents have voiced

growing concern about the chaos unfolding on sidewalks and streets. Many have witnessed reckless riders speeding through crosswalks, weaving unpredictably through traffic, or operating devices that exceed the speeds of some small motorcycles, all without training, accountability or basic protective gear. These concerns are not mere irritations. They are warnings. And for too long, state law has offered no tools to respond. The consequences are tragically real. The death of 14-year-old Mepham High School student Jayden Flores is a heartbreaking reminder of how high the stakes are. Jayden’s life was cut short on Nov. 6 when he was simply trying to cross an intersection that is familiar to families, commuters and children who navigate it every day.

Jayden’s death shattered a community, devastated his loved ones and reignited fears that New York is allowing a preventable danger to grow unchecked. It was not an isolated incident. New York City accounts for nearly half of all e-bike fatalities nationwide, and injuries involving motorized two-wheelers have skyrocketed in recent years. These are the numbers not of a state that is in control, but rather of one that has fallen behind.

Opponents may argue that regulation will limit the freedom and utility these devices offer. But this legislation would not restrict responsible riders — it aims to protect them. It differentiates between

those who use these devices to commute, work or travel safely and those who endanger themselves and others by treating public roads like racetracks. By establishing clear rules, the bill would strengthen, but not stifle, the e-mobility revolution. It would tell riders: You belong here, but with the same responsibilities that govern every other vehicle user.

Community members deserve the peace of mind that comes from knowing their children can cross the street safely, that seniors can walk on the sidewalks without fear, and that drivers can navigate intersections without unpredictable hazards.

Families should not have to mourn preventable deaths. Schools should not have to activate crisis-counseling teams because lawmakers failed to act. And no parent should have to receive the call that Jayden’s family received — a call that turns a normal morning into a lifetime of grief.

S8573/A157 is not merely a procedural update. It is a necessary, common-sense step toward restoring order, protecting public safety and preventing future tragedies. The Legislature must recognize the urgency of this moment. Every day without clear regulations is another day when lives are at risk.

New York cannot afford to hesitate. The time to act is now. Lawmakers must pass this bill, and ensure that the promise of e-mobility never again comes at the expense of human life.

opinions

Thank you for the honor of serving the 5th District

Thank you. I cannot say it enough.

Serving as a Nassau County Legislator for the past two years has been a tremendous honor, and an even greater privilege.

I joined the Legislature at a challenging time for Democrats. We were the last line of defense against a Republican supermajority and absolute one-party rule in Nassau. For two years we fought for our constituents. We fought to get our communities the resources from the county that they not only deserve but pay for with their tax dollars. Under the leadership of Minority Leader Delia DeRiggiWhitton, we proudly stood shoulder to shoulder and delivered.

We successfully leveraged our votes for the 2025 capital plan to force County Executive Bruce Blakeman to process 14 long-awaited grants for first responders serving Democratic districts — including $100,000 for the Merrick Fire Department. We enacted a capital plan that delivered tens of millions for essential infrastructure investments in Demo-

Framework

cratic districts and funded first responders, law enforcement and critical countywide infrastructure upgrades.

As a caucus, we fought for American Rescue Plan Act funding that Nassau received after the pandemic, to be set aside for community organizations that helped us weather the storm and strengthen the fabric of our communities. In District 5 we supported our youth by securing $100,000 for Rising Stars in Freeport and $50,000 for the Cedarmore Corporation. We confronted hunger by delivering over $22,000 to the Ladles of Hope food pantry at Our Holy Redeemer Church in Freeport.

focused on the health and safety of our community members.

i have the utmost confidence in the Democratic conference I leave behind.

Our caucus fought for common-sense legislation that would protect the public and save lives. I proposed Gio’s Law to mandate epinephrine auto-injectors, or EpiPens, in all county police cars, and Robbie’s Law, to equip all county athletic fields with automated external defibrillators. My colleagues proposed the Families Against Fentanyl Act, which would require the inclusion of low-cost, highly accurate fentanyl-detecting test strips in Narcan kits distributed by county agencies.

We proposed these pieces of legislation because they made sense. All three

Tim Baker

I proudly stood with my colleagues as we sounded the alarm on tens of millions of dollars in wasteful spending on politically connected outside legal contracts. And we shed light on the chaos at Nassau University Medical Center amid the ongoing battle to save this vital safety-net hospital that so many people rely on. We fought for policies to make Nassau more affordable by reducing permit fees for businesses and returning illegally collected red-light camera ticket fees to drivers.

Unfortunately, none of the legislation proposed by Democrats made it onto the legislative calendar for a vote, but I’m optimistic that the momentum we created will continue into 2026. Here’s one example: At a recent meeting of the Merrick Community Civic Association, I saw a powerful presentation by Kennedy High School students Ava and Ethan Robinson in support of Robbie’s Law. Their passion showed that the fight for this lifesaving idea is far from over.

There is more work to do, but I have the utmost confidence in the Democratic caucus I leave behind. I owe each member a debt of gratitude. My success

representing the 5th District is directly related to the support, advice and guidance I received from my fellow legislators. Thanks to each of you.

My term ends on Dec. 31, but my work will continue until then. I will use every moment to help our community. I’m happy to announce that we will host a winter coat drive in partnership with the Freeport-Merrick Rotary Club. If you have new or gently used winter coats and accessories, please drop them off during business hours at the Freeport, North Bellmore or North Merrick libraries, or Freeport-Merrick Rotary Club headquarters, at 294 W. Merrick Road, Suite 12, in Freeport. The drive ends on Dec. 14.

I’m especially grateful for the unwavering love and support that my wife, Jill, our children and extended family gave me on this journey. Without you, none of this would have been possible. I am forever grateful to all of you.

Thank you all for giving me the opportunity to serve for these two years. From my family to yours, we wish you a wonderful, healthy and prosperous holiday season and an amazing 2026. I look forward to seeing you in the community as we continue making Nassau County an even better place to live, work and raise our families.

Seth I. Koslow, of Merrick, represents Nassau County’s 5th Legislative District.

seTh i. koslow

by

At the Holiday Boat Parade on the Nautical Mile — Freeport

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