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Vol. 91 No. 1

JANUARY 1 - 7, 2026

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New patrol boat added to police arsenal By MoHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com

Alessandra Laucella/Herald

Admiring the Village of Freeport Police Department’s newest patrol boat are Chief of Police Michael Smith, left; Assistant Chief Donnie Ethier; Deputy Chief Joseph China; and Mayor Robert Kennedy. The 23-footlong, custom-outfitted boat was made possible courtesy of $250,000 in grants from former State Sen. Kevin Thomas.

The Village of Freeport Police Department has significantly upgraded its marine capabilities ahead of the upcoming boating season after receiving a new patrol boat, thanks to $250,000 in state grants. The 23-foot “Life-Proof ” center console vessel replaces the department’s existing 18-foot patrol boat, which has been in service since 2001. Acquired through a grant secured by former State Sen. Kevin Thomas, the new boat was designed specifically to meet the operational needs of the village’s Police Department. The department’s Harbor Unit regularly responds to vessels in distress, boats that have run aground or are taking on water, as well as boating and jet-ski accidents, and no-wake zone enforcement throughout Freeport’s waterways. “Our patrol officers are ready to assist in whatever ConTinuED on PAgE 10

Woodward students help light up village for holidays By MoHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com

Mayor Robert Kennedy recognized the contributions of students from Woodward Children’s Center at a ceremony on Dec. 17, honoring them with citations for helping bring holiday cheer to Freeport by repairing and setting up Christmas lights throughout the village. As part of Woodward’s vocational program, students Robert Albano, Orlando Brown and James Eick spent several weeks last fall restoring the iconic decorations that illuminated Main Street and surrounding areas during the holiday sea-

son. The effort ensured that the village’s festive displays were ready in time for residents and visitors to enjoy. T h e Wo o dw a r d C e n t e r, founded 65 years ago, serves students from kindergarten through age 21 with special needs, including children with emotional challenges and those on the autism spectrum. The center emphasizes hands-on learning experiences designed to prepare them for life beyond the classroom. According to Ken Dookram, president of the Chamber of Commerce, the students worked alongside their advisers and chamber members.

t was a great learning experience.

GReG INGINo Woodward executive director “Some of the kids at the school and some of their advisers, with some members of the Chamber of Commerce, we maintain the light fixtures,” Dookram said. “If you drive around town, if you see the lights, the snowflakes and the Christmas wreaths that are up on light poles, that’s what they are.”

He added, “The children from Woodward did a great job helping us maintain those fixtures.” The partnership, Dookram said, benefits both the community and the students. “It’s a win-win, where the chamber and the kids at that school, we work together in collaboration to beautify the village in prepa-

ration for the holidays,” he said. “And also for the kids, they get a great experience. We go to the mayor’s office and he thanks them personally as well.” The collaboration be gan when the chamber faced challenges in continuing the longstanding tradition of maintainConTinuED on PAgE 5

What’s neWs in and out of the classroom

HERALD SchoolS

DeSTEMber Day brings learning to New Visions New Visions School of Exploration and Discovery, part of the Freeport School District, hosted its annual DeSTEMber Day on Wednesday, Dec. 17, giving students in grades K–4 a hands-on celebration of science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics. The winter-themed event transformed classrooms and common areas into interactive learning spaces where students explored, created and innovated through a series of collaborative challenges. Designed to foster critical thinking and creativity, DeSTEMber Day encouraged students to apply classroom concepts in engaging, seasonal ways. Throughout the day, students took part in a variety of hands-on activities, including engineering freestanding pipecleaner trees, designing popsicle-stick catapults to launch snowballs, and creating protective systems to deliver candy canes safely. Other challenges included winter-themed coding exercises, a reindeer relay, and a special delivery activity in which students built parachutes and baskets to transport a toy to a designated target. “DeSTEMber Day brings learning to life for our students,” said Principal Jessica Romero. “These experiences inspire curiosity, creativity, and confidence while helping students develop problem-solving skills that extend beyond the classroom.” The event highlighted the school’s commitment to innovative, experiential instruction, showcasing young learners actively engaged in exploration and discovery through studentcentered learning experiences. –Mohammad Rafiq

Courtesy Freeport Public Schools

Fourth-grade students Camila, Suri, and Lyla from Mrs. Campbellas class work together on a hands-on engineering challenge, building and testing structures with popsicle sticks and Play-Doh.

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Zion’s Kwanzaa brings drums and dance

FREEPORT HERALD — January 1, 2026

By MOHAMMAD RAFIQ & STACY DRIKS Of the Freeport Herald

A public Kwanzaa celebration filled Roosevelt Field Mall on Dec. 31 with the sounds of drums, the movement of African dance and the glow of candlelight on Wednesday, led by parishioners from Zion Cathedral Church of God in Christ in Freeport, who brought a traditional, family-centered observance into one of Long Island’s most visible public spaces. “God, we thank You, Lord, for this day, for bringing us to the very last day of the year,” said Pastor Jykolyn White of Zion Cathedral, who led the opening prayer. “We thank You, Lord for our ancestors who come before us. We thank You, Lord for those who will come after us.” Hosted in the North Court of Roosevelt Field Mall, the midday gathering transformed the bustling shopping destination into a space for cultural reflection and shared experience. Rather than formal speeches, the program unfolded through music, movement and ritual, offering striking visuals and natural sound as shoppers and community members paused to watch. “Today, as we gather in this place, we call the names of freedom fighters and truth tellers such as Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass and Sojourner Truth,” said Rev. Sedgwick Easley the leader of the Union Baptist Church of Hempstead, who gave the libation. “We pour libation for the ancestors of Africa, for the kings and queens and scholars and builders and those who have paved the way for us,” he added. A drum procession moved through the mall court, drawing onlookers into the celebration, followed by African dance performances and moments of reflection involving clergy, elders and families. At the center of the observance was the lighting of a large mosaic kinara, marking Umoja, the first principle of Kwanzaa, which emphasizes unity within families and the broader community. Zion Cathedral Church of God in Christ played a central role throughout

Stacy Driks/Herald photos

A framed artwork depicting dancers and drummers was displayed as part of the Kwanzaa presentation at Roosevelt Field Mall, reflecting themes of movement, music and cultural celebration. the program, with its members helping lead the drumming, dance and ceremonial elements. Their participation highlighted the Freeport-based church’s commitment to sharing cultural traditions and fostering community connections beyond its own congregation. Later in the program members of the Nassau County Legislature Minority Caucus such as Debra Mulé and Olena Nicks, along with community leaders, joined together in observing the candle-lighting and reflecting on the theme of unity expressed through the celebration. Organizers said the event was intended to highlight culture, togetherness and community leadership by bringing a meaningful tradition into a shared public space, inviting families and passersby alike to take part in the spirit of Kwanzaa.

Sabra Bailey, a dance instructor and professor at Adelphi University, demonstrates traditional modes of dance for the Kwanzaa celebration.

The president of the NAACP Zion Freeport chapter Donna Raphael holds a community calendar during a public Kwanzaa celebration at Roosevelt Field. Shelley Brazley, director of the Social Action Ministry at Zion Cathedra, plays the primary role in organizing the annual Kwanzaa celebration.

A large mosaic kinara stood at the center of the Kwanzaa display at Roosevelt Field Mall, with red, black and green candles symbolizing the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa during the public celebration.

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On Dec. 4, a driver stopped for a traffic violation was found to be intoxicated and arrested. The individual was transported to Freeport Police Headquarters for processing.

On Dec. 6, a resident reported that someone had impersonated them to deposit and cash a fraudulent check in their account. Police filed a report for documentation.

Fire On Dec. 8, Freeport Police and Fire Department responded to a house fire at a local residence. The fire was extinguished with no injuries and was deemed non-suspicious. A report was taken.

On Dec. 14, a driver was arrested after being stopped for a traffic infraction and found to be intoxicated. The individual was processed at headquarters.

misCeLLaneous

petit LarCeny On Dec. 5, a person was arrested after allegedly stealing items from a local business. Police said the individual removed property without permission and was taken into custody.

On Dec. 9, a driver was arrested for operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license following a traffic stop. The subject was taken into custody and processed.

On Dec. 8, a resident reported that unknown individuals removed Amazon packages from their property without permission. A report was filed; no arrest was made.

On Dec. 9, police responded to a business alarm and found a door unsecured. A report was taken for documentation. On Dec. 13, a resident reported misplacing a work identification card. Police filed a report for documentation.

On Dec. 10, police arrested a suspect in connection with a theft from a business. The person was processed at Freeport Police Headquarters.

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Dwi arrests

On Dec. 8, police arrested a motorist suspected of driving while intoxicated following a routine traffic stop. The subject was taken into custody.

On Dec. 14, an unknown individual damaged construction materials at a local residence. No arrest was requested; a report was taken.

People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.

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January 1, 2026 — FREEPORT HERALD

news brieF Woman charged for prostitution A 47-year-old Manhattan woman was arrested on a prostitution charge following an undercover investigation in Freeport on Friday afternoon, police said. At about 3:15 p.m. on Dec. 19, officers arrested Ka Yee Li, of 620 W. 42nd St., without incident. Li was charged with prostitution and

_________________

initially released on an appearance ticket, police said. Investigators later determined that she is in the United States illegally, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents subsequently took her into custody. –Mohammad Rafiq

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Kids recognized for holiday light project

FREEPORT HERALD — January 1, 2026

Continued from page 1

ing the holiday decorations. “The chamber has always done it, and the electrician who did it passed away,” Dookram explained. “We’ve had some other electricians who were members of the chamber do it, and unfortunately they passed away also. So it came to, how are we going to try to get it done?” The solution, he said, emerged through a connection with Woodward’s executive director, Greg Ingino. “Greg Ingino, from the Woodward school, said they do have kids that do that type of stuff, and they’d be happy to help us out,” Dookram said. “It’s been a great partnership ever since.” Ingino spoke to the Herald about the Woodward students’ response to having been honored. “They were very excited Ken DooKram about getting to come meet the President, mayor again and get an award Chamber of from him,” Ingino said. “There Commerce was camaraderie. “It was a great feeling of them seeing the completion of their work,” he added. “Fixing and installing the bulbs, and then [seeing] the lights in the village — the pride of doing that.” “They were very dedicated,” Ingino said. “You know, it was cold some of those days we were out there, and they changed about 2,000 bulbs and they learned how to do wiring, and how to test for the wires and the sockets. So it was a great learning experience.”

e work together in collaboration to beautify the village in preparation for the holidays.

Courtesy Woodward Children’s Center

orlando Brown, far left, robert albano and James eick with citations they received from the Village of freeport at a recognition ceremony celebrating their work supporting the community’s holiday lighting efforts.

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

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

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

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Photos courtesy Hofstra Athletics Communications

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

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

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January 1, 2026 — FREEPORT HERALD

What’s neWs in and out of the classroom

FREEPORT HERALD — January 1, 2026

HERALD SchoolS

Courtesy Freeport Public Schools

The presentation of Freeport High School National Honor Society inductees took place on Tuesday, Dec. 16.

139 Freeport High School students inducted into National Honor Society The Freeport Public School District recognized academic excellence and leadership as 139 students were inducted into the National Honor Society chapter at Freeport High School during a ceremony held on Tuesday, Dec. 16, at 7 p.m. The induction honored eleventh- and twelfth-grade students for their achievement in scholarship, leadership, service and character. With this year’s class, the Freeport High School chapter now includes 231 members. “We are immensely proud of our students and the dedication required to attain this distinguished honor,” said

Interim Superintendent of Schools Alice Kane. “Their determination to exceed expectations reflects the value of goalsetting and perseverance. These students exemplify leadership and service, and we look forward to the positive contributions they will continue to make.” The ceremony included welcoming remarks from National Honor Society Advisor Ms. Brianne Underwood, opening comments from district leaders, the formal presentation of inductees and recognition of the core principles that define the National Honor Society. –Mohammad Rafiq

End the Year by Liﬁting Up Your Neighbors

Freeport High School musicians shine during Winter Festival of the Arts The Freeport High School Music Department brought students, families and community members together to celebrate the holiday season during its Winter Festival of the Arts, held on Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025, at the Freeport Performing Arts Center. The evening highlighted the depth and quality of the music program at Freeport High School, as student musicians from multiple ensembles delivered polished performances that reflected both seasonal themes and months of dedicated preparation. Each group demonstrated technical skill,

musical expression and a strong commitment to the arts. “The Winter Festival of the Arts was an outstanding representation of our students’ talent, discipline, and commitment to the arts,” said Principal Gisselle Campbell-Harris. “Their performances were exemplary, and we are extremely proud of their dedication and hard work. The evening captured both the joy of the season and the strong sense of community at Freeport High School.” –Mohammad Rafiq

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Courtesy Freeport Public Schools

The Freeport High School Concert Choir performs ‘Deck the Halls’ at the Winter Festival of the Arts.

As the cost of living continues to rise, more families across Long Island are turning to us for support. From parents working multiple jobs to seniors on ﬁxed incomes, thousands rely on Long Island Cares for access to healthy, reliable food.

Northwell warns of winter ‘tripledemic’ By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com

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

Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald

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

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

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

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FREEPORT HERALD — January 1, 2026

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January 1, 2026 — FREEPORT HERALD

New vessel’s maiden voyage to be in April electronics such as GPS and radar, way they’re needed,” Freeport Mayor enabling safe operation at night and in Robert Kennedy said of the new vessel. foggy conditions. It is powered by a Designed using specifications provid- 300-horsepower Mercury outboard ed by the department, the boat is expect- motor, allowing speeds in excess of 50 ed to enhance safety and efficiency on mph, and is fully equipped with towing, the water. safety and rescue equipment. “Having this new boat will enable our “The new vessel has a full enclosure, officers to be of greater helping our officers stay out assistance to our residents of the weather and further and others on the water,” allowing them to utilize the Kennedy added. vessel in any inclement The officers work closely weather, such as rain, wind with multiple a g encies, o r c o l d t e m p e r at u re s, ” including the Nassau CounSmith said. “The new vessel ty Police De partment will continue to be manned Marine Bureau, the Town of by two officers, however, Hempstead Bay Constable, increased space makes a the U.S. Coast Guard, the larger crew possible.” New York State Department Mayor Kennedy said the of Environmental Conservaupgrades allow officers to tion, and local fire depart- RObeRt Kennedy use the boat more often and ments. While the primary Freeport mayor more effectively. patrol season runs from May “With the many upgrades through October, the vessel on the new boat, our officers remains on call year-round. will be able to use it more frequently,” As the self-described boating and Kennedy said. “They’ll be able to edufishing capital of the Northeast, Free- cate the local boating community in all port relies on a two-person marine aspects of boating safety, including patrol crew that can respond to emer- rules of the waterways and required gencies at a moment’s notice. Eight offi- safety equipment. With the new boat, cers in the department have received they’ll be able to do so more efficiently.” Marine Patrol Training, and Freeport’s The patrol boat is expected to make Chief of Police Michael Smith said the its first official voyage at the start of department is continuing to expand that the new season, likely sometime in number. April. While capable of high speeds, The new vessel includes advanced the vessel typically patrols back bay CoNTINueD FRoM PAge 1

ur patrol officers are ready to assist in whatever way they’re needed.

Alessandra Laucella/Herald

The newest addition to Freeport Police Department’s toolbox is a 23-foot, customoutfitted patrol boat, made possible by a grant from former State Sen. Kevin Thomas. The boat is a replacement for the current 18-footer. waterways at around five mph, with the ability to quickly respond to offshore emergencies several miles into the ocean. Members of the Marine Patrol Unit undergo extensive training, including classroom instruction, vessel operation, hands-on rescue training, rescue swimming, and helicopter hoist operations, conducted in coordination with the Nas-

sau County Police Department Marine Bureau, U.S. Coast Guard, and New York State Police. “It was important that we upgrade our marine capabilities and are thankful to Sen. Thomas for his assistance,” Kennedy said. “Being able to secure a grant means we didn’t have to burden residents or raise taxes to make this happen.”

Metro-North and LIRR set ridership records The Metropolitan Transportation Authority reported that both Metro-North Railroad and the Long Island Rail Road have achieved new post-pandemic ridership records in December. Metro-North’s ridership reached 827,015 customers during the week of Dec. 15, marking the highest recovery week since the pandemic, representing 88 percent of pre-pandemic ridership in December 2019. The weekend of Dec. 20-21 also saw Metro-North’s strongest weekend performance with 245,638 customers. The LIRR also saw significant ridership gains, with 183,250 riders on Dec. 13, and 152,661 on Dec. 21—both marking the highest post-pandemic weekend figures for the railroad. Rob Free, the president of the LIRR, attributed the increase to improved service and a focus on customer experience. “The LIRR is the best way to travel during the holiday season and year-round,” he said. Metro-North President Justin Vonashek echoed this sentiment, highlighting service enhancements like super express and holiday lights trains. “We’re thrilled to see record ridership on MetroNorth,” Vonashek said. “From Super Express trains to delighting customers with our holiday lights trains, we’re always finding new ways to enhance the rider experience. We look forward to welcoming even more riders in the new year and encourage everyone to take advantage of the new discounts taking effect in January.” The surge in ridership comes as both railroads maintain record-breaking on-time performance, consistently near 97 percent in 2025. Customer satisfaction

Herald file photo

The MTA announced that both Metro-North Railroad and the Long Island Rail Road set new post-pandemic ridership records in December, driven by increased service, customer satisfaction, and enhanced experiences. is also at all-time highs, with LIRR reaching 81 percent and Metro-North at 85 percent. Both railroads will implement new ticketing policies starting on Jan. 4, including universal reduced fares for seniors and those with disabilities, expanded

family fare options, and new flexible ticketing choices designed to enhance the customer experience and save money. –Brian Kacharaba

STEPPING OUT

Courtesy Met Opera

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FREEPORT HERALD — January 1, 2026

‘Digging the dancing queen…’

January 1, 2026 — FREEPORT HERALD

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD JAN

‘Home for the Holidays’ Pet Adoption

CALENDAR the son of a poker-playing mom and a jazz musician dad. And Jane Condon, mom of two boys, has been dubbed “an uppercrust Roseanne.” She loves to tell stories about her adventures (mostly survival tales) with her husband and kids.

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

• Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre • Time: 8 p.m. • Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444

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

Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out

Let’s Skate

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

JAN

‘Frozen Jr.’

Sunrise Theatre Company welcomes families to its staging of “Frozen Jr.” Join in as Elsa, Anna, and the magical land of Arendelle comes to life. The show features all of the memorable songs from the animated film with a cast of beloved characters and loaded with magic, adventure, humor and love! $15. • Where: The Showplace at the Bellmore Movies, 222 Pettit Ave., Bellmore • Time: Noon, also Dec. 29-30, 11 a.m. and Jan. 3-4 • Contact: SunriseTheatreLI.com or (516) 218-2782

JAN

Splish Splash… Animal Bath

Hang out with some Long Island Children’s Museum’s “residents” at the drop-in program. Join an animal educator in the Hive Studio’s in the Feasts for Beasts Gallery to learn what goes into the care of LICM’s animal “residents.” Observe animal bath time.

JAN

Yacht Rock Revue

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

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: 1:30-2 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

JAN

SEPTA Meeting

New Visions School hosts the monthly Special Education PTA meeting. Open to all parents and guardians.

• Where: 80 Raynor St. • Time: 7-8 p.m. • Contact: freeportschools.org

eagle has been the United States’ national emblem and mascot. These amazing animals have an impressive wingspan of 7 feet and use their strong wings to soar 10,000 feet in the air. Come learn all about these majestic birds and make your own flying eagle craft in honor of National Save the Eagles Day. This is a drop-in program, free with admission. • Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: Noon-2 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224

JAN

New Visions PTA Meeting.

New Visions School holds its regular monthly PTA meeting.

• Where: 80 Raynor St. • Time: 6-7 p.m. • Contact: freeportschools.org

JAN

Elated Eagles

Long Island Children’s Museum invites families to discover the mighty eagle. Since 1782, the bald

Morse Code Moniker

Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes families to Learn Your Name in Morse Code Day. Stop by to learn about Samuel Morse, the telegraph and learn how to spell your name in dashes and dots while making a bracelet. This is a drop-in program. Also discover more about Morse code in Communication Station on the second floor. • Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: 1-3 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

JAN

Board of Trustees meet

All are welcome to the public session of the Freeport Board of Trustees next meeting at Freeport Village Hall. • Where: 46 N. Ocean Ave. • Time: 5:30 p.m. • Contact: freeportny.gov

JAN

Comic showcase

Known for their elite brand of clever comedy, The Ivy League of Comedy visits the Madison Theatre. You’ve heard their brilliant comedic voices on late-night television and Comedy Central and on the club circuit. The lineup features Keith Alberstadt, who’s playful personality radiates on stage. He mixes light-hearted sarcasm with a southern charm and has become a favorite at comedy clubs and theaters. Also Clayton Fletcher, who’s heard every day on Sirius/XM Radio’s Laugh USA, Blue Collar Comedy, and Jamie Foxx’s Foxxhole stations. He has been featured on Hulu-TV’s “Comedy Brew,” MSNBC’s “Your Business,” ESPN’s “World Series of Poker,” and Comcast-TV’s “Who’s Laughing Now?” He allows us to see the world through the eyes of

Long Island Children’s Museum’s welcomes all to the opening of its new exhibit. Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out provides interactive experiences that help visitors learn about the important role emotions, memory and imagination play in our everyday lives. Hands-on and digital experiences focus on the five emotions featured in the film: Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust and Fear. Kids learn to recognize emotions and explore ways that we express and manage our own emotions. With opening weekend activities to celebrate the arrival of this traveling exhibit. • Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

Art explorations

Converse, collaborate and create with kids at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art. Get inspired by the art and objects in the galleries and then join educators at the Manes Center to explore and discover different materials to create your own original artwork. Kids and adults connect while talking about and making art together. A new project is featured every week. $20 adult, $10 child. For ages 2-14. Registration required. $20, $10 child; members free. • Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor • Time: Noon-3 p.m. • Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

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.

FREEPORT HERALD — January 1, 2026

From ancient traditions to modern goals: five facts about New Year’s resolutions

The most common resolutions focus on health and self-improvement. Across many cultures and studies, the most popular New Year’s resolutions consistently involve health, fitness, and personal growth. Common goals include exercising more, eating healthier, losing weight, saving money, and improving mental well-being. These resolutions often reflect areas where people feel they have fallen short in the previous year. The start of a new year creates a psychological “fresh start,” motivating individuals to believe that meaningful change is possible.

Most New Year’s resolutions are not kept long-term. Research frequently shows that a large percentage of people abandon their resolutions within the first few months of the year,

motivation, and culture. The following five facts explore the origins, challenges, and lasting significance of New Year’s resolutions. Five things to know:

with many giving up by February. This is often due to unrealistic goals, lack of clear planning, or reliance solely on motivation rather than habits. While this statistic may seem discouraging, it highlights the importance of setting achievable, specific, and measurable goals rather than vague promises like “be healthier” or “be happier.”

Writing down resolutions increases the chance of success. People who clearly define and write down their New Year’s resolutions are more likely to achieve them. Writing goals helps clarify intentions and provides a concrete reminder of commitment. Breaking resolutions into smaller, manageable steps and tracking progress can also improve success rates. Additionally, sharing goals with friends or family

can create accountability, which further increases motivation and followthrough.

New Year’s resolutions are more about mindset than the calendar. While resolutions are traditionally tied to January 1st, many experts argue that lasting change depends more on mindset than on the date itself. The New Year simply provides a symbolic opportunity to reflect and reset. People who view resolutions as ongoing lifestyle changes rather than temporary challenges are more likely to succeed. This perspective encourages patience, flexibility, and self-compassion, allowing individuals to adapt rather than quit when setbacks occur.

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New Year’s resolutions have ancient origins. The tradition of making New Year’s resolutions dates back over 4,000 years to ancient Babylon. Babylonians celebrated the New Year during a festival called Akitu, where they made promises to their gods, such as returning borrowed items or paying debts. These promises were seen as a way to gain favor and good fortune for the year ahead. Later, the ancient Romans continued this practice by honoring Janus, the two-faced god of beginnings, by making pledges of good conduct. This long history shows that the desire for self-improvement at the start of a new year is deeply rooted in human culture.

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As the calendar turns to a new year, millions of people around the world set New Year’s resolutions with hopes of improving their lives. Whether the goal is to become healthier, save

January 1, 2026 — FREEPORT HERALD

LFRE1-3 0101

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF COMPLETION OF ASSESSMENT ROLL VILLAGE OF FREEPORT TAKE NOTICE that the 2026/2027 Final Assessment Roll for the Village of Freeport, New York, for the Year 2026 has been completed and will be filed in the office of the Village Clerk and Assessor’s Office on Friday, January 2, 2026 where it will remain open to the public for fifteen (15) days after the date of this notice. Pamela Walsh Boening Village Clerk Issue Date: 1/1/2026 157615

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR FURNISHING OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING SERVICES TO FREEPORT ELECTRIC FOR THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF FREEPORT NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK Notice is hereby given that the Purchasing Department of the Incorporated Village of Freeport, New York will receive sealed proposals for “FURNISHING OF ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING SERVICES TO FREEPORT ELECTRIC” until 4:00 P.M. on Friday, January 16, 2026, in the Purchasing Department, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York 11520. Specifications may be obtained in the Purchasing Department, Municipal Building, 1st Floor, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York, 11520 or on the Village website, www.freeportny.gov, from 9:00 A.M. on Monday, January 5, 2026, until 4:00 P.M. on Friday, January 16, 2026. The Board reserves the right to reject any or all proposals received and subject to these reservations, shall award the contract to the highest qualified and responsible vendor. Proposals which in the opinion of the Board are unbalanced shall be rejected. In submitting a proposal, vendors agree not to withdraw their proposal within forty five (45) days after the date for the opening thereof. Taylor D’Orta

Buyer Village of Freeport VILLAGE OF FREEPORT Issue Date - January 1, 2026 157616

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO BIDDERS FREEPORT POLICE DEPARTMENT EXTENSION FOR THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF FREEPORT NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK Notice is hereby given that the Purchasing Agent of the Incorporated Village of Freeport, New York will receive sealed proposals for “FREEPORT POLICE DEPARTMENT EXTENSION “ until 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday, February 3, 2026 in the Main Conference Room of the Municipal Building, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York, 11520, at which time and place they will be opened publicly and read aloud. Specifications, proposal and proposed contracts may be obtained by visiting the Village website at www.freeportny.gov or obtained at the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Municipal Building, 1st Floor, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York, 11520, from 9:00 A.M. on Monday, January 5, 2026 until 4:00 P.M. Friday, January 30, 2026. There is no fee for a set of bid documents. The project calls for construction of a second floor addition to the Village of Freeport Police Department as well as modifications to the existing building. Each bid must be accompanied by a bidder’s bond in the amount of not less than five (5%) percent of the bid insuring to the benefit of the Village of Freeport, or a certified check of not less than five (5%) percent of the bid, made payable to the Village of Freeport, to assure the entering of the successful bidder into a acceptable contract. The Board reserves the right to reject any or all bid proposals received and subject to these reservations, shall award the contract to the lowest qualified and responsible bidder. Bids which, in the opinion of the Board, are unbalanced shall be

rejected. In submitting a bid, bidders agree not to withdraw their bid within forty five (45) days after the date for the opening thereof. Purchasing Agent Village of Freeport VILLAGE OF FREEPORT Issue Date - January 1, 2026 157617

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in accordance with provisions of the Village Law §4-412(3), a Public Hearing will be held by the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Freeport, New York, on the 13th day of January, 2026, at the Municipal Building, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York, at 4:30 P.M, in the evening of that date, to consider the proposed contract between the Incorporated Village of Freeport and the Freeport Volunteer Fire Department for the furnishing of fire protection within the Incorporated Village of Freeport for the Fiscal Year 2026-2027, for a fee of $151,000.00. At this hearing all persons interested will be given an opportunity to be heard. FURTHER RESOLVED, that the foregoing notice of public hearing shall be entered in the minutes of the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Freeport, and published in the Freeport Herald and a printed copy thereof posted conspicuously in at least three (3) public places in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Nassau County, New York. STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF NASSAU, VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, ss: I, PAMELA WALSH BOENING, Village Clerk of the Village of Freeport, Nassau County, New York, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of said notice duly authorized by the Board of Trustees of the said Village at a meeting of the said Board of Trustees, calling for a public hearing to be duly held in the Conference Room of the Municipal Building of the Village of Freeport, New York, on the 13th day of January 2026, at 4:30 P.M., in the evening, and of the

whole thereof, as entered upon the minutes of the proceedings of the said Board kept by me as Village Clerk. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Corporate Seal of said Village this 29th day of December, 2025. Pamela Walsh Boening, Village Clerk Dated: December 29, 2025 Freeport, New York 157619

LEGAL NOTICE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS PUBLIC HEARING – January 15, 2026 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that a Public Hearing with the Zoning Board of Appeals is scheduled for Thursday, January 15, 2026 at 6:30 P.M. in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Main Conference Room, 46 N. Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York on the appeals and applications of cases as they appear on the calendar; residential applications that do not extend their prior nonconforming status may be called first; public comment invited. INTERESTED PROPERTY OWNERS and other persons should appear at the above time and place to have questions answered and to voice opinions. All applications are non-conforming with zoning regulations herein specified for the districts in which they are located. Application #2025-13 – 120 Sportsmans Avenue, Residence ASection 62/Block 088/Lot 1 – Ocean Builders Corp. Erection of 2,434 SF 3-story, 1family dwelling. Variances: Village Ordinance §210-6A. Conformity Required, §210-40 Lot Area; street frontage; lot width, §210-41 Lot coverage; floor area ratio, §210-43A Required yards Application #2025-15 –_435 Woodcleft Avenue, Marine Commerce Section 62/Block 177/Lots 339, 526, 541, 542, 548 – NBD Holding Inc. Construct a new 6-story, 138-room hotel with a total occupant load of 839 persons in the public assembly areas and to utilize section 62 block 233 lots 2 & 3 for additional accessory use of offsite parking. Variances: Village Ordinance

§210-6A. Conformity Required, §210-239 Building Height, §210-239 Number of Stories, §210-3 Parking space, §210-172(6) Required parking spaces Application #2025-16 – 186 Atlantic Avenue, Residence AA, Business B – Section 62/Block 113/Lot 216 – Eric Weinstein Proposed 1,631 SF 1-story addition Variances: Village Ordinance §210-6A. Conformity Required §210-3 Parking Space, §210-86A Required yards, §210-87 Plots abutting more restricted districts §210-172A(12) Required Parking Spaces, §210-180C Plots abutting residential districts Application #2025-17 – 186 North Columbus Avenue, Residence A – Section 55/Block 244/Lot 1 – Elsa Lucero Castelan Maintain 12’ x 15’ Shed Variances: Village Ordinance §210-6A. Conformity Required §210-43C(2) Required yards BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS Pamela Walsh Boening, Village Clerk 157614 LEGAL NOTICE REFEREE’S LEGAL NOTICE OF POSTPONEMENT OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU CROSSCOUNTRY MORTGAGE, LLC, Plaintiff - against JUAN ROSADO, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on September 16, 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 12th day of December, 2025 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Premises known as 144 East Seaman Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520. (Section: 55, Block: 250, Lot: 86) Approximate amount of lien $355,360.31 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 608083/2024. Sean C. Acosta, Esq., Referee. Stein, Wiener & Roth LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 1400 Old Country Road, Suite 315 Westbury, NY 11590 Tel. 516-742-1212 ROSADO, JUAN-80762 Dated: September 24, 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. Auction Locations are subject to change. The above sale has been postponed, the new sale date is January 09, 2026 at 2:00 pm. at the same place. Sean C. Acosta, Esq., Referee. Dated: December 15, 2025 157499 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that in accordance with §5-508.3 of the Village Law, a budget showing the revenues and expenditures for the Fiscal Year 2026/2027 has been prepared by the Mayor of the Incorporated Village of Freeport, and has been filed with the Village Clerk of the Incorporated Village of Freeport. A copy of the tentative budget will be available at the Office of the Village Clerk where any interested person may inspect it during office hours. The Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Freeport, New York, will conduct a public hearing on the 13th day of January, 2026 at the Municipal Building, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York, at 4:30 P.M., of the evening of that date, to consider the proposed budget of the Fiscal Year commencing

March 1, 2026 and ending February 28, 2027. At this hearing all persons interested will be given an opportunity to be heard. Following is a schedule of salaries paid to the Mayor, Members of the Board of Trustees, and Village Justice: Mayor $193,405.84 Trustee $ 36,461.48 Village Justice $93,834.70 FURTHER RESOLVED, that the foregoing notice of public hearing shall be entered in the minutes of the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Freeport, and published in the Freeport Herald and a printed copy thereof posted conspicuously in at least three (3) public places in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Nassau County, New York. STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF NASSAU, VILLAGE OF FREEPORT, ss: I, PAMELA WALSH BOENING, Village Clerk of the Village of Freeport, Nassau County, New York, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of said notice duly authorized by the Board of Trustees of the said Village at a meeting of the said Board of Trustees, calling for a public hearing to be duly held in the Conference Room of the Municipal Building of the Village of Freeport, New York, on the 13th day of January 2026 at 4:30 P.M., in the evening, and of the whole thereof, as entered upon the minutes of the proceedings of the said Board kept by me as Village Clerk. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Corporate Seal of said Village this 29th day of December, 2025. Pamela Walsh Boening, Village Clerk Dated: December 29, 2025 Freeport, New York 157618 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE CO-OP APARTMENT PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that pursuant to Article 9 of the Uniform Commercial Code, STEPHAN G. MARCELIN, Auctioneer, JOHN WILLIAM O’KEEFE, Auctioneer, or TERENCE GEE, Auctioneer, or RICHARD J.

CANTWELL, will sell at public auction with reserve to the highest bidder, on the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 21, 2026, at 1:30 p.m., security consisting of 300 shares of FORDHAM HILL OWNERS CORP., in the name of NICHOLE HENRIQUEZ, and all right, title and interest in and to a Proprietary Lease for Cooperative, located in a building known as and by the street address 100 SOUTH OCEAN AVE, UNIT 4H, FREEPORT, NEW YORK 11520, NICHOLE HENRIQUEZ, as Lessee, and 100 SOUTH OCEAN AVE REALTY CORP., as Lessor. This sale is held to satisfy an indebtedness of the unpaid principal balance, interest, attorney fees, and advances through January 21, 2026, and to enforce the rights of NEWREZ LLC D/B/A SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING (the “Secured Party”), arising under a Security Agreement dated October 5, 2021, executed by and between NICHOLE HENRIQUEZ and NEW REZ LLC. The Secured Party reserves the right to bid. The Co-op Apartment will be sold “AS IS”, subject to open common charges, and possession is to be obtained by the purchaser. DATED: December 19, 2025 Knuckles & Manfro, LLP Attorneys for SECURED PARTY 120 White Plains Road Suite 215 Tarrytown, NY 10591 (914) 345-3020 157612 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST LUIS M. CORDERO, ELIZABETH MATEUS, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered June 9, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the

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Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 2, 2026 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 18 Hotchkiss Place, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 55 Block: 395 Lot: 75. Approximate amount of judgment $486,818.66 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #614432/2022. Joseph M. Terino, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, L LC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 21-001160 88103 157519 LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU. CARDINAL CREDIT X LLC, Plaintiff -against897 SPRING AVE LLC, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated May 5, 2025 and entered on May 8, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court “Rain or Shine” located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on January 12, 2026 at 2:30 p.m. PARCEL I: Section: 50 Block: 427 and Lot: 6 situate, lying and being at Uniondale, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the Southerly side of Spring Avenue, distant 210.23 feet Easterly from the extreme Easterly end of the arc of a curve connecting the Southerly side of Spring Avenue with the Easterly side of Summer Avenue; being a plot 100 feet by 60 feet by 100 feet by 60 feet. Said premises known as 897 SPRING AVENUE, UNIONDALE, NY 11553 PARCEL II: Section: 36 Block: 518 and Lot: 20 situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING

at a point on the Westerly side of California Avenue, distant 456.37 feet Westerly from the corner formed by the intersection of the Westerly side of Delaware Avenue and the Northerly side of California Avenue when measured along the Northerly side of California Avenue; being a plot 109 feet by 55 feet by 109 feet by 55 feet. Said premises known as 154 CALIFORNIA AVENUE, FREEPORT, NY 11520 Approximate amount of lien $302,369.32 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index Number 602607/2024. ELIZABETH GILL, ESQ., Referee The Camporeale Law Group PLLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 585 Stewart Avenue, 770, Garden City, NY 11530 {* FREEPORT LEADER*} 157137

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST CHRISTOPHER RUNOLFSSON, JENNIFER WINTERS, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 30, 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 2:00 PM, premises known as 194 Westside Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 62 Block 31 Lot 13. Approximate amount of judgment $598,918.99 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #620308/2023. Brian J. Davis, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-004227 87805 157145 Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR CSMC 2018-RPL6 TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. ALAN RICHARTZ, JR., ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on September 24, 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 14, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 443 Atlantic Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520. 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 Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 54, Block 312 and Lot 71. Approximate amount of judgment is $430,074.10 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #620789/2023. Lawrence M. Schaffer, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 222478-1 157161

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU PHH MORTGAGE CORPORATION, -againstANGEL RECINOS, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on January 14, 2025, wherein PHH MORTGAGE CORPORATION is the Plaintiff and ANGEL RECINOS, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE

STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on January 13, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 556 SOUTH BAYVIEW AVENUE, FREEPORT, NY 11520; and the following tax map identification: 54-325-36, 37, 38 and 39. 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 FREEPORT, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 608685/2019. Scott H. Siller, Esq. Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 157199 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR ACE SECURITIES CORP. HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2006FM1, ASSET BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, Plaintiff, Against PAMELA FLEARY Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 05/12/2023, 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 1/14/2026 at 3:30PM, premises known as 127 Wilson Place, Freeport, New York 11520, 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 Village of Freeport, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 54 Block 493 Lot 43 The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $934,892.40 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 004842/2015 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. Paul L. Meli, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573 Dated: 11/12/2025 File Number: 17-300038 CA 157189 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: JZYN & CO LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 9/17/25. 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: 964 Pacific Street, Baldwin, NY 11510 Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity. 157209 LEGAL NOTICE Supplemental Summons and Notice of Object of Action Supreme Court Of The State Of New York County Of Nassau Action To Foreclose A Mortgage Index #: 601472/2025 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Plaintiff, Nassau County Public Administrator, As Administrator Of The Estate Of Regina M. Mcewen AKA Regina Mcewen, April Mcewen As Heir To The Estate Of Regina M. Mcewen AKA Regina Mcewen, Christopher Garran As Heir To The Estate Of Regina M. Mcewen AKA Regina Mcewen, Brandon Garran As Heir To The Estate Of Regina M. Mcewen AKA Regina Mcewen, Marasha Garran As

Heir To The Estate Of Regina M. Mcewen AKA Regina Mcewen, Steven Garran As Heir To The Estate Of Regina M. Mcewen AKA Regina Mcewen, Unknown Heirs Of Oluf A. Jackson If Living, And If He/She Be Dead, Any And All Persons Unknown To Plaintiff, Claiming, Or Who May Claim To Have An Interest In, Or General Or Specific Lien Upon The Real Property Described In This Action; Such Unknown Persons Being Herein Generally Described And Intended To Be Incl uded In Wife, Widow, Husband, Widower, Heirs At Law, Next Of Kin, Descendants, Executors, Administrators, Devisees, Legatees, Creditors, Trustees, Committees, Lienors, And Assignees Of Such Deceased, Any And All Persons Deriving Interest In Or Lien Upon, Or Title To Said Real Property By, Through Or Under Them, Or Either Of Them, And Their Respective Wives, Widows, Husbands, Widowers, Heirs At Law, Next Of Kin, Descendants, Executors, Administrators, Devisees, Legatees, Creditors, Trustees, Committees, Lienors, And Assigns, All Of Whom And Whose Names, Except As Stated, Are Unknown To Plaintiff, Alton A. Jackson As Heir To The Estate Of Oluf A. Jackson, Eroll Jackson If Living, And If He/She Be Dead, Any And All Persons Unknown To Plaintiff, Claiming, Or Who May Claim To Have An Interest In, Or General Or Specific Lien Upon The Real Property Described In This Action; Such Unknown Persons Being Herein Generally Described And Intended To Be Included In Wife, Widow, Husband, Widower, H eirs At Law, Next Of Kin, Descendants, Executors, Administrators, Devisees, Legatees, Creditors, Trustees, Committees, Lienors, And Assignees Of Such Deceased, Any And All Persons Deriving Interest In Or Lien Upon, Or Title To Said Real Property By, Through Or Under Them, Or Either Of Them, And Their Respective Wives, Widows, Husbands, Widowers, Heirs At

Law, Next Of Kin, Descendants, Executors, Administrators, Devisees, Legatees, Creditors, Trustees, Committees, Lienors, And Assigns, All Of Whom And Whose Names, Except As Stated, Are Unknown To Plaintiff As Heir To The Estate Of Oluf A. Jackson, Nassau County Clerk, People Of The State Of New York, United States Of America On Behalf Of The IRS John Doe (Those unknown tenants, occupants, persons or corporations or their heirs, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, guardians, assignees, creditors or successors claiming an interest in the mortgaged premises.) Defendant(s). Mortgaged Premises: 36 Mount Joy Avenue Freeport, NY 11520 To the Above named Defendant: You are hereby summoned to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff(s) attorney(s) within twenty days after the service of this Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Supplemental Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. The Attorney for Plaintiff has an office for business in the County of Erie. Trial to be held in the County of Nassau. The basis of the venue designated above is the location of the Mortgaged Premises. TO Unknown Heirs, Eroll Jackson Defendants In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an ord er of HON. Jeffrey A. Goodstein of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Eighth day of December, 2025 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau, in the City of Mineola. The object of this

action is to foreclosure a mortgage upon the premises described below dated July 7, 2010, executed by Regina M. McEwen AKA Regina McEwen (who died on February 17, 2021, a resident of the county of Nassau, State of New York) and Richard D. McEwen (who died on October 7, 2019, a resident of the county of Montgomery, State of Pennsylvania) to secure the sum of $140,000.00. The Mortgage was recorded at Book M 35032, Page 802 in the Office of the Nassau County Clerk on August 5, 2010. The property in question is described as follows: 36 Mount Joy Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520 NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this Foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. DATED: December 9, 2025 Gross Polowy LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221 The law firm of Gross Polowy LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 88386 157288 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT NASSAU COUNTY BAYVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff against ANDREA FAGAN, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Fein Such & Crane, LLP, 28 East Main Street,

FREEPORT HERALD — January 1, 2026

Public Notices

Suite 1800, Rochester, NY 14614. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered April 27, 2017, 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 20, 2026 at 2:30 PM. Premises known as 296 Pine Street, Freeport, NY 11520. Sec 54 Block 84 Lot 7. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $466,592.84 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 015029/2010. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. 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.” Merik Aaron, Esq., Referee File # FCINY008 157298 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, M&T BANK, Plaintiff, vs. THE UNKNOWN HEIRS-AT-LAW, NEXTOF-KIN, DISTRIBUTEES, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, TRUSTEES, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST AND GENERALLY ALL PERSONS AND PARTIES HAVING OR CLAIMING, UNDER, BY OR THROUGH THE DECEDENT MARIE PAUL A/K/A MARIE M. PAULBOISROND A/K/A MARIE M. BOISROND, BY PURCHASE, INHERITANCE, LIEN OR www.liherald.com

January 1, 2026 — FREEPORT HERALD

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OTHERWISE, ANY RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST IN AND TO THE PREMISES DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT HEREIN, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Discharging Guardian Ad Litem, Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on September 24, 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 21, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 176 Evans Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 55, Block 101 and Lot 4. Approximate amount of judgment is $373,157.95 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #604276/2023. Cash will not be accepted. Joseph Trotti, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 157305

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. KATHRYN BLOOM A/K/A KATHRYN A. BLOOM A/K/A KATHRYN ANN BLOOM, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report, Amend the Caption, Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on April 29, 2025 and an Order For Extension of Time to Conduct Foreclosure Sale and Amend Caption duly entered October 15, 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 20, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 28 Howard Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520. 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 Freeport, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 62, Block 106 and Lot 391-392, 426. Approximate amount of judgment is $843,228.86 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #011828/2014. Jane Shrenkel, Esq., Referee Greenspoon Marder, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 2200, New York, NY 10105, Attorneys for Plaintiff 157309

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PENDING EQUITABLE DISPUTE AFFECTING TITLE AND POSSESSION (Non-Bona Fide Purchaser Notice) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a substantial equitable dispute exists concerning the ownership, validity of title, and right to possession of the real property located at: 49 Meyer Street, Roosevelt, New York 11575(the “Property”).The dispute arises from a foreclosure sale conducted on May 6, 2025, and includes, without limitation, issues concerning:(i) the validity and authority of the foreclosing party;(ii) conflicting promissory notes and chain-of-title defects;(iii) the conduct and timing of the sale while judicial review was pending;(iv) noncompliance with required referee procedures; and(v) the validity and effect of the referee’s deed and subsequent r e c o r d i n g s. R e l a t e d proceedings include a foreclosure action and a landlord-tenant proceeding in which ownership and right to possession are actively contested and have not been adjudicated on the merits. ANY

PERSON OR ENTITY considering bidding at, purchasing, taking assignment of, or otherwise acquiring any interest in the Property is hereby placed on actual, constructive, and inquiry notice that such interest, if acquired, may be subject to existing equitable claims, defenses, restraints, and judicial review, and will not be taken free of such claims.This Notice is published solely to provide public notice of a pending equitable dispute affecting title and possession. It is not a determination of rights by any court, and no allegation of wrongdoing is hereby adjudicated. 157392

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, 1844 LANSDOWNE CORP., Plaintiff, vs. 1844 LANSDOWNE OWNER 2024 LLC, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on November 3, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 27, 2026 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 1844 Lansdowne, Freeport, NY 11566. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 55, Block 150 and Lot 72,73,75 89, 90 & 95. Approximate amount of judgment is $3,465,713.83 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 617893/2024. Michael J. Sepe, Esq., Referee Vallely Mitola Ryan PLLC, 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 165, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 157473 Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232

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Courtesy Assemblywoman Judy Griffin’s office

Assemblywoman Judy Griffin sponsored legislation called the Lieutenant Joseph Banish Mental Health Act, which Gov. Kathy Hochul signed on Dec. 18.

Hochul signs new mental health legislation into law By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

Joined by police leaders and bill sponsors, Gov. Kathy Hochul signed the Lieutenant Joseph Banish Mental Health Act into law on Dec. 18. Responding to an increase in suicides and post-traumatic stress disorder among police officers, the bill will establish new confidentiality requirements for law enforcement during peer-to-peer counseling sessions. Named in memory of State Police Lt. Joseph Banish, who died by suicide in 2008, the legislation is intended to reduce the stigma associated with mental health among first responders while ensuring that counseling communications are protected. “Protecting New York’s first responders and ensuring they are well-equipped with support to successfully fulfill their duties is an essential part of my public safety mission,” Hochul said in a statement. “Law enforcement officers who protect our communities during times of crisis deserve counseling services that are tailored to their unique experiences and conducted with discretion. By strengthening these programs, we are ensuring safe settings for honest conversations to improve the mental health and well-being of our first responders.” Sponsored by Assemblywoman Judy Griffin, whose district includes parts of Freeport, and State Sen. James Skoufis, the bill passed both houses of the Legislature last June. “I was honored to carry this legislation to establish a formal peer-to-peer mental health program for our police,” Griffin said in a news release. “This bill is about supporting the men and women who protect us every day by ensuring that they have the mental health resources they need to effectively serve communities across the state.” Suicide rates for police officers are more than 50 percent higher than the public at large, and the new law will provide them with confidential peer support counseling with trained police offi-

cers serving as support specialists. “Police officers put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities, yet too often they do not receive the essential mental health support they need by nature of their profession,” Griffin stated “This can exact a toll, both professionally and personally.” Throughout 2025, Hochul highlighted new resources to improve first responders’ mental health. They included a Responder Wellness Program Primer, intended to help public-safety agencies develop and enhance their wellness programs; a video on the unique mental health needs of first responders; and the launch of a new website, “Responder Wellness.” “We ask law enforcement officers to show up on our worst days, and when their own trauma and grief in the aftermath of danger, violence, and even death goes unprocessed, it can exacerbate and disrupt all areas of life,” Skoufis said in a statement. “Giving officers support and resources from trusted colleagues with full confidentiality balances privacy with responsibility, and when officers receive the help they need, our communities are safer for it.” The legislation comes after the state’s initial First Responder Mental Health Needs Assessment presented in Feb. 2025, which found that more than half of public safety workers experience high levels of stress, burnout and mental health challenges. The bill is intended to be a step toward reducing the risk for law enforcement officers across state. “Police officers have three times more of a chance of dying by suicide than by getting killed on the job,” Thomas Shevlin, president of the Nassau County Police Benevolent Association, said in a news release. “We are human and witness things that no one should have to see, hear or smell, and we need to allow our brave officers the chance to get the help they need.” For more information on the state’s Responder Wellness program, visit DHSES.NY.gov/Responder-Wellness.

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Employment

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

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

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

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

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

FREEPORT HERALD — January 1, 2026

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January 1, 2026 — FREEPORT HERALD

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Homes

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

HOME OF THE WEEK

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Merrick

Charming Expanded Cape Cod

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

Ask The Architect

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

Results that Move You

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

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

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January 1, 2026 — FREEPORT HERALD

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Answers to todAy’s puzzle

opinions

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

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

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

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

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

For President Trump, too many missed opportunities

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

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

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

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

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

FREEPORT HERALD — January 1, 2026

We’re all wondering what the new year will bring

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Before the flu bug bites, get the shot

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

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

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

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

opinions

uring this season of holidays and thanksgiving, it seems that gratitude is a most logical place to begin. To the residents of Nassau County’s Legislative District 6, thank you from the bottom of my heart for once again putting your trust in me to represent you. Your vote of confidence is gratifying and humbling, and I pledge to you that I will do everything in my power to make our government work for you. All of this wouldn’t have been possible without the support of my family Debra and friends, the numerous unions mulÉ and advocacy organizations that endorsed my campaign for the Legislature, and the countless volunteers who knocked on doors, walked the community and spread the word about the importance of voting in every election. As I begin my new term, I have the privilege of serving a newly apportioned district, which encompasses portions of Oceanside and Baldwin along with the entirety of Freeport — the first time in the history of the Legislature

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

that that community is unified within one district. With these changes comes the sad news that I will no longer have the privilege of representing Roosevelt and South Hempstead — but I know those residents will be in excellent hands under the leadership of my colleague and friend, Legislator Scott M. Davis. The county legislative map will be in place through 2032 because of a settlement reached after community advocates and civil liberties organizations sued the county. In their lawsuit, they alleged that illegal gerrymandering permeated the map used in the 2023 election. District 6 is one of the six majorityminority districts in which the population comprises at least 50 percent underrepresented voting groups. While the district may have been altered by this outcome, my focus — protecting our environmental treasures, keeping our communities safe and making Nassau more affordable — remains crystal clear. I’m excited about how the Bay Park conveyance project — one of Nassau’s most significant infrastructure undertakings in recent memory — is scheduled to become fully operational at the

start of this year. This will reap major quality-of-life and public health benefits for us all, and the positive environmental impact on Reynolds Channel will be monumental. I am deeply grateful to Gov. Kathy Hochul and New York state for their unwavering support of this effort. We must, however, remain vigilant in our work to secure equitable investments in the necessary road and transportation infrastructure that underpin responsible, community-driven economic development. One of Nassau’s great examples is Baldwin’s downtown revitalization initiative, for which I have worked diligently to deliver tens of millions of dollars in county resources to improve Grand Avenue and make Baldwin a destination for transit-oriented, smartgrowth development. In 2026 I will remain laser-focused on making our communities safer for all. As a social worker, I know firsthand how we must aggressively confront the scourge of addiction — and specifically the opioid drug crisis — to save lives, protect public health and bolster public safety. I will continue to work alongside my colleagues to greatly accelerate the release of nearly $100 million in opioid

n 2026 I will remain laser-focused on making our communities safer for all.

Framework by Tim Baker

MARGAReT LICATA East Meadow

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

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

drug lawsuit settlement proceeds so that they get where they belong — in the hands of the mental health professionals and advocates delivering lifesaving recovery, treatment and prevention resources. Moreover, a comprehensive strategy must also encompass responsible public safety initiatives. That means responsibly resourcing our law enforcement professionals and first responders, and continuing the work to strengthen relationships between our communities and the police who serve them. The Democratic minority used our leverage under the county charter to deliver $1.3 million in grants to first responders that were inexplicably held up by the county administration, and we will not hesitate to once again use our power when necessary to ensure fair and equitable representation. Working together, I know that we will accomplish great things in the new year, and it all starts with you. Never hesitate to reach out to my office, at (516) 5716206, with your questions, or dmule@ nassaucountyny.gov. It is always our privilege and pleasure to serve you, and help you navigate Nassau County government. Debra Mulé, of Freeport, represents Nassau County’s 6th Legislative District and is the Legislature’s alternate deputy minority leader.

FREEPORT HERALD — January 1, 2026

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