Freeport Herald 01-15-2026

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Vol. 91 No. 3

JANUARY 15 - 21, 2026

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Hundreds gather to honor memory of Renee Good

By MoHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com

Tim Baker/Herald

Residents hold candles and signs during a candlelight vigil in Freeport on Sunday, Jan. 11, calling for Immigration and Customs Enforcement to leave Long Island and honoring the life of Renee Nicole Good.

Hundreds of Freeport residents gathered last Sunday for a candlelight vigil honoring Renee Nicole Good, who was fatally shot by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent in Minneapolis last week, and calling on ICE to leave local communities, as speakers warned that immigrant families across Long Island are living in fear amid stepped-up enforcement actions.

The vigil was organized by Freeport resident Hazel Leon, founder of the advocacy group Así Vamos NY, and Claudia Borecky, of the South Shore Women’s Alliance.

Faith leaders, activists, poets and community members took part in an evening of remembrance, reflection and calls for accountability.

“Seeing a woman get shot in her car was terrifying for our community,” Leon said. “This is a person that clearly cared for the immigrant community and it’s really sad to see that our country is divided right now in seeCoNtINuEd oN paGE 5

Abstract artist to exhibit at Art Alcove in February

By MoHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com

Abstract artist Marcia McNair, a Westbury resident and a longtime educator, will present a solo exhibition at the Art Alcove Gallery at the Freeport Recreation Center at 130 E Merrick Road as part of a Black History Month exhibition opening on Feb. 5.

There will be an opening reception at 6:30 p.m. at the Art Alcove, which is operated by the Long Island Arts Council at Freeport. The gallery, in the recreation center lobby, regularly features Long Islandbased artists in its rotating

exhibitions throughout the year.

McNair said she first became familiar with the Art Alcove through earlier group exhibitions connected to Long Island arts organizations. “And occasionally I’ll go by and see what’s showing” there, she said.

Her connection to the LIAC at Freeport, she said, grew through her curatorial and organizational work elsewhere on Long Island. “I’m a board member at Westbury Arts Gallery,” she said. “I’m involved with a lot of exhibits. I curate a lot of exhibits,” she added, noting that she curated a Black History Month exhibition last

year titled “The Essence of Soul,” featuring photographer Anthony Barboza, who also previously exhibited at the Art Alcove.

McNair, 69, said she has been making art for most of her life, beginning as a child in New York City. As a teenager, she was enrolled in Saturday art classes at Pratt Institute, which she described as the start of her formal training.

She later earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in fine arts at Hunter College.

H e r wo rk i s r o o t e d i n abstraction and color theory, drawing from both modern art traditions and personal influ-

ences. “My work is all about color, color sensation, overlapping, geometric shapes, transparency, some imagery that’s found in African textiles,” she said. “I was introduced to abstraction in moder n art, always influenced by Impressionists and sort of modern art themes.”

Among the artists she cited

as influences are Aaron Douglas, Sam Gilliam, Alma Thomas, Claude Monet and Josef Albers.

“I like the universal message in an abstraction,” McNair said. “When someone looks at my work, I want them to focus on the colors and the emotional effects that … the art brings to CoNtINuEd oN paGE 10

What’s neWs in and out of the classroom

HERALD SchoolS Cooking Up Literacy brings learning to Dodd

–Mohammad Rafiq

Courtesy Freeport Public Schools

J.W. Dodd Middle School students assemble their gingerbread house as part of Cooking Up Literacy: A Holiday Collaboration, a cross-curricular project connecting reading, teamwork, and hands-on learning through realworld application.

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Throughout December, the Reading Department and Family & Consumer Science program at J.W. Dodd Middle School partnered on Cooking Up Literacy: A Holiday Collaboration, a hands-on, cross-curricular initiative designed to show students how reading, research and communication skills translate to real-world settings.

Under the guidance of teachers Ms. Brown and Ms. Perez, students explored practical applications of reading, vocabulary and critical-thinking skills through cooking and recipe-based activities. The project emphasized research, planning and collaboration, helping students better understand how literacy supports everyday tasks and cooperative work environments.

The unit culminated in a gingerbread house project, in which students applied their skills by designing and constructing festive displays that blended creativity, teamwork and practical literacy. The collaboration concluded with a gingerbread house showcase and friendly competition celebrating student innovation and problem-solving.

“This collaboration provided students with the opportunity to take ownership of their learning in meaningful ways,” said Principal Christopher Porciello.

“By applying literacy skills to real-world experiences, students were actively engaged, built confidence, and gained a stronger understanding of how reading supports their success both in and out of the classroom.”

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January 15, 2026 — FREEPORT HERALD

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Child Care Provider warn HHS rollback could deepen instability

By MASHIAT AZMI Of The Herald

The U.S. De par tment of Health and Human Services, or HHS, closed its Biden-era child care loophole, which required states to pay providers before verifying any attendance and before care was delivered on Jan. 5, 2026.

According to the Department of Health and Human Services, the change will roll back provisions in the 2024 Child Care and Development Fund rule that weakened oversight and increased the risk of waste, fraud, and abuse in federally-funded state child care, including programs now under investigation in Minnesota.

Janna Rodriguez, founder & CEO of The Innovative Daycare Corp in Freeport, answered questions via email to gain insight into this issue.

Q: How did the 2024 Child Care and Development Fund rule change the way you were paid for child care services?

A: The 2024 Child Care and Development Fund rule was a major and long-overdue policy win for the child care sector.

For more than a decade, providers and advocates pushed for payment based on enrollment rather than daily attendance, because it reflects the reality of how child care operates.Under an enrollment-based model, providers are paid for the child’s slot, not whether a child is present for a half day or a full day.

That matters because child care is a capacity-controlled system.

Whether a child attends or not, that slot is still taken, staffing must still be maintained, and health and safety requirements do not change. While many states moved forward and implemented enrollment-based paymen t , N ew Yo rk S t at e applied for a waiver from the rule, citing concer ns about funding and implementation capacity. As a result, New York providers are still being paid based on attendance, not enrollment. This was deeply disappointing to the provider community, especially since other states were able to make the transition. Because enrollmentbased payment has not been implemented in New York, the rule did not change how we are

currently paid, but it highlighted exactly where the system continues to fail providers.

Q: From your perspective, did the previous rule weaken oversight or accountability in child care funding?

Q: Did you face any challenges for your center?

A: No, it did not weaken oversight or accountability. Even under the previous rule, providers were still subject to licensing requirements, attendance tracking, enrollment verification, audits, and monitoring by local districts. The rule did not remove safeguards; it simply aligned payment practices with the reality of fixed operating costs in child care. In fact, maintaining enrollment-based payments alongside attendance verification strengthens the system by supporting program stability while preserving transparency and accountability.

A: As for challenges—yes, we face them every single day. The child care workforce has been chronically undercompensated and underfunded for decades.

Retaining staff is one of the biggest challenges providers face. Early childhood educators are responsible for the safety, development, and well-being of young children, yet they are often paid less than workers at Target or McDonald’s.

For programs that accept child care assistance, tuition and reimbursement rates are capped. Providers cannot simply raise prices to compete with other industries. This creates a situation where we are expected to deliver high-quality, regulated care while operating with unstable revenue and noncompetitive wages.Attendancebased payment only makes this worse. When funding fluctuates based on daily attendance— especially for school-age children whose schedules change frequently—it creates constant financial ups and downs. That instability makes it harder to: The 2024 CCDF rule showed us what stability could look like—but without implementation in New York, providers are still operating under an unstable system.

Q: Do you think the rollback of this rule will improve or complicate your day-to-day operations?

A: From my perspective, the rollback will complicate my day-to-day operations, not improve them. As a New York provider, we were already operating in a system where the 2024 CCDF rule was not fully implemented due to the state waiver, so we never experienced the full stability the rule was intended to provide. Rolling it back doesn’t fix the underlying issues—it reinforces a payment structure that leaves providers financially vulnerable. Attendance-based payment makes it harder to plan staffing, manage payroll, and cover fixed costs like rent, insurance, utilities, and food, which do not change when a

Q: How important is attendance verification in preventing misuse of public childcare funds?

A: Attendance verification is important, but it should be used as an oversight and monitoring tool, not as the sole driver of payment. Tracking attendance helps ensure children are actually being served, identifies patterns, and prevents intentional misuse or fraud. However, tying payment strictly to daily attendance does not reflect how child care programs operate. Our costs—staffing, rent, insurance, food, utilities, and compliance—are fixed whether a child attends every day or misses a day due to illness or family circumstances. A balanced approach, where attendance is monitored but payments are based on enrollment, provides accountability without destabilizing providers.

Q: Do you anticipate any changes in enrollment, staffing, or services offered as a result?

A: Yes, I do anticipate changes.When payment systems remain unstable or tied strictly to attendance, providers have to make more cautious decisions. I expect to see reduced enrollment, particularly for families with variable or nontraditional schedules, because those placements carry more financial risk for providers.Staffing is also affected. Unpredictable revenue makes it harder to plan schedules, offer consistent hours, or commit to hiring additional

FREEPORT HERALD — January 15, 2026

Child Care news

3

child is absent. It shifts financial risk onto providers for circumstances outside of our control, such as illness or family emergencies.Instead of simplifying operations, the rollback maintains uncertainty and instability, making it more difficult to run a sustainable child care program and continue serving families who rely on subsidized care.

Courtesy Janna Rodriguez

Kids are building creativity through teamwork at the daycare center. staff. In some cases, providers may reduce hours, delay hiring, or limit staffing growth to avoid overextending financially.

In terms of services, highercost offerings—such as infant care, care for children with special needs, or extended-hour care—are often the first to be scaled back. These services require more staff and resources, and without predictable payments, they become difficult to sustain. Over time, this can lead to fewer options for families and increased waitlists, even when demand remains high.

Q: Do you view this rollback as a necessary correction or a step backward for the child care system?

A: I view this rollback as a step backward for the child care system.The original rule acknowledged that child care is essential infrastructure with fixed operating costs and that providers need predictable, stable payments to remain open and serve families. Rolling it back does not correct the real problem, which was uneven implementation and lack of technical support at the state and local levels. Instead, it reinforces an outdated model that places financial risk on providers for circumstances beyond their control, such as child illness or family emergencies.For providers like me—especially in New York, where the rule was never fully implemented due to a state waiver—the rollback feels less like a correction and more like abandoning a needed reform before it was properly executed.

Q: Based on your experience, what payment system works best for providers?

A: Based on my experience, the payment system that works

best for providers is one that is enrollment-based and paid prospectively, with attendance used for monitoring and accountability rather than as a daily payment trigger. Child care pro g rams have fixed costs—staff wages, rent or mortgage, insurance, food, utilities, and regulatory compliance—that do not change when a child is absent. An enrollment-based system recognizes this reality and allows providers to plan staffing, payroll, and services responsibly.

The most effective system includes: Predictable, upfront payments tied to enrolled children, Consistent statewide guidance and timelines, Attendance verification for oversight, not financial penalties, Adjustments only for long-term absences or withdrawals, not short-ter m disruptions.This approach supports stability for providers, continuity of care for families, and responsible stewardship of public funds.

Q: Do you want to add anything else re garding this matter?

A: Yes, I do want to add one more impor tant point.Too often, children with special needs are being left out of these policy conversations, even though they are among the most impacted by instability in the child care system. Serving children with special needs requires additional staffing, training, coordination with therapists, and individualized supports—all of which increase costs and require consistent, predictable funding.

When payment systems are unstable, providers are less able to offer or sustain these services, which further limits access for families who already face barriers.

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Dwi arrest

CriminaL misChief

On Jan. 11, a motorist was arrested for driving while intoxicated after being stopped for a traffic infraction. The individual was processed at Freeport Police Headquarters.

On Jan. 9, an unknown person scratched the entire driver’s side of a Lexus parked at the LIRR lot. A report was filed for documentation.

frauD

LarCeny On Jan. 8, a person was arrested for allegedly stealing property from Freeport Fire Headquarters without permission. The suspect was processed at police headquarters.

On Jan. 9, police took a report for a stolen Amazon package that had been removed from a residential porch. No arrest was made.

On Jan. 10, a report was taken after someone fraudulently opened an LLC using a Freeport resident’s home address. No arrest was requested.

On Jan. 7, a driver was arrested after being pulled over and found with a forged inspection sticker he had printed from a photo online. The suspect was processed at Freeport Police Headquarters.

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.

news brief Freeport man charged after police injured A Freeport man was arrested Mon- also transported to a local hospital for day evening following a traffic stop in evaluation, police said.

Following an investigation, police Massapequa Park that police said escalated into a violent struggle at a Nassau said Dash was found to be in possesCounty precinct. sion of a substance believed According to Nassau to be crack cocaine and sevCounty police, officers from eral pills believed to be oxythe Seventh Precinct codone. observed Samuel Dash, 58, Dash, of 78 Meister Blvd., driving a 2007 GMC Yukon was charged with two counts westbound on Sunrise Highof second-degree assault, way at about 6:30 p.m. with a three counts of third-degree cracked side-view mirror. criminal possession of a conOfficers initiated a traffic trolled substance, fourthstop, during which they allegdegree criminal possession Samuel DaSh of a controlled substance, edly discovered a counterfeit New York State inspection second-degree criminal possticker on the vehicle, police said. session of a forged instrument, and Dash was taken into custody without multiple vehicle and traffic law violaincident and transported to the Seventh tions, police said.

Precinct, where police said he became He was scheduled to be arraigned violent and combative, leading to a today, Tuesday, Jan. 13, at First District struggle. Two officers sustained injuries Court, 99 Main St. in Hempstead. and were taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation and treatment. Dash was –Carolyn James

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January 15, 2026 — FREEPORT HERALD

Protecting Your Future

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Residents want ICE to leave Long Island ing that our immigrants are humans, and they also provide a vibrant diversity and also help our economy, too, and help our communities thrive.”

Leon said the vigil was organized in response to growing reports of ICE activity across the South Shore and Long Island. “They want the American dream just like our ancestors did once before,” she said of the immigrants the agency appears to be targeting. “They are a part of what makes Long Island so beautiful, and it’s really heartbreaking to see that across our country, they’re being harassed by their own tax dollars.”

Leon added, “Renee Nicole Good did not deserve to die.”

Speakers at the vigil described it as both a memorial and a collective stand against what they see as unlawful and discriminatory enforcement practices.

Leon said that residents have reported ICE agents knocking on doors and asking for people who do not live at those addresses, and waiting outside homes for hours.

“You should have a judicial warrant in order to enter someone’s home,” she said. “That’s the law, and you shouldn’t try to grab somebody just because of the color of their skin.”

Borecky warned against the erosion of democratic norms and the normalization of fear. “As criminals giving themselves permission to remove people

of color without question, the law message every day that we should be doesn’t matter to them,” she said, refer- angry and that we should be afraid,” ring to ICE agents. “The law is whatever Molin added. “But are we going to stay [President] Trump says it is, and those like this? No, we refuse to stay down, who harbor or defend the others are we’re gonna stand up.”

She urged unity and collective action. named domestic terrorists. This allows “The more we stand together as a comthem to silence us.

“We no longer wonder how Germans munity, the harder it will be for them to divide and to destroy us,” allowed their neighbors to be she said. “We will organize dragged away,” Borecky conand we will win.” tinued. “We no longer wonRabbi Ariel Naveh, a der how Russians believe Wantagh resident and a that Ukraine invaded Russia. member of Bend the Arc, a People are told not to believe nationwide Jewish organizatheir own eyes. Only believe tion whose stated goal is to what Dear Leader tells you.” “build an American future Borecky urged attendees free from white supremacy, not to retreat in the face of Hazel leon antisemitism, and racism,”, intimidation. “We cannot reflected on the parallels stop speaking up for those Founder, between the current immiwho can’t,” she said. “We Así Vamos NY gration climate and the early cannot give in to the fear.

Truth still matters. Humanity still mat- years of the HIV/AIDS crisis, when widespread suffering went largely ters.”

Nadia Molin, of the National Day ignored.

Reading excerpts from a speech on Laborers Organizing Network, spoke in both English and Spanish, and con- the AIDS crisis, Naveh described the demned what she described as violence isolation and disbelief that surrounded and brutality carried out by federal those deaths, and war ned against repeating history. immigration authorities.

“My friends, before the federal gov“I’m here … to condemn the murder of Renee Nicole Good and Santos Bane- ernment even uttered the words HIV gas Reyes, killed in the Nassau County and AIDS. In 1988, over hundreds of jail,” Molin said, adding that families thousands of gay men, drug users and all manner of people had passed away continue to wait for answers.

“The government is sending us a because they were not considered wor-

R

enee Nicole Good did not deserve to die.

thy,” he said. “My friends, we are not going to let that happen.”

Leon said that Así Vamos NY, which she founded last year, works to connect immigrant families with legal resources and advocates for state legislation, including the NY4All Act, which broadly prohibits state and local officers from enforcing federal immigration laws and the MELT Act, which would prevent ICE agents from wearing masks or other face coverings while acting as federal agents.

“We need to continue to debunk the narratives that are happening throughout our communities, that are scapegoating our immigrant neighbors into wrongful detainment,” Leon said. “We need to continue to champion legislation that will make the road for them to get a fair path to citizenship.”

Despite the fear many families are feeling, Leon said, the turnout for the vigil was a source of hope. “I hope that people continue to find common ground, regardless of party, and really start to see through the lies that some of the politicians are feeding them right now,” she said.

The vigil concluded with chants calling for ICE to leave Long Island, and organizers urging residents to stay engaged, support one another and continue showing up for future actions.

“It begins with us,” Leon said. “And it can continue to build when we show up for each other in times of need.”

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FREEPORT HERALD — January 15, 2026

Continued from page 1

5

BRiNgiNg local spoRts home eVeRY weeK

spotlight athlete

HERALD SPORTS

Freeport no match for Hempstead

By NICK MONGIOVI sports@liherald.com

ASHTON PIERRE-CHARLES CALHOUN Sophomore Basketball AFTER AVERAGING 12 points per game as a freshman last winter, the Colts’ point guard has taken his game to the next level and entered this week among Nassau County’s top five scoring leaders at 22.2 ppg. A career-high 35-point performance in Calhoun’s 67-52 victory over Long Beach Jan. 7 included eight three-pointers and a game-sealing dunk.

Pierre-Charles also hit a beyond halfcourt shot to beat the third-quarter buzzer.

games to watch Thursday, Jan. 15 Girls Basketball: Wantagh at V.S. South ................. 5 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Plainedge at Lynbrook ................. 5 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Uniondale at Freeport ................. 5 p.m.

Boys Basketball: North Shore at Seaford .......... 6:45 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Baldwin at East Meadow........ 6:45 p.m.

Boys Basketball: V.S. South at Wantagh ............ 6:45 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Seaford at North Shore .......... 6:45 p.m.

Girls Basketball: G.N. South at Calhoun............ 6:45 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Plainedge at Lynbrook................. 7 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 16 Boys Basketball: Clarke at Elmont ......................... 5 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Floral Park at Calhoun ................. 5 p.m.

Boys Basketball: F-Dale at Massapequa........... 6:45 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Oceanside at V.S. Central ....... 6:45 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Uniondale at Freeport............. 6:45 p.m.

Girls Basketball: East Meadow at G.City ........... 6:45 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Bethpage at South Side .............. 7 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 17 Girls Basketball: Elmont at Clarke...................11:45 a.m.

Girls Basketball: MacArthur at Jericho ............11:45 a.m.

Boys Basketball: Sewanhaka at Division.........11:45 a.m.

Boys Basketball: Hewlett at Garden City .........12:45 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Mineola at East Rock ............. 1:45 p.m.

Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete” High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a winter sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season.

Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.

Lay-up take you down?

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In a League 1 AAA clash between Freeport and Hempstead, the Tigers beat the visiting Red Devils, 83-47, last Saturday. Right out of the gates, it was all Hempstead, and the lead never wavered.

The setback dropped Freeport to 1-4 in conference play and 2-8 overall.

“It just shows that there’s a lot of work that we need to do,” Freeport head coach Daryl Johsnon said. “Trying to keep these kids locked in and focused during practice. We have to start working on our defense and rebounding.”

The Red Devils trailed the Tigers 27-10 after the first quarter, with Hempstead’s Amare Collins and Aaden Saduy leading the charge. Collins notched 11 of his 26 in this quarter, while Saduy scored 8 of his 15. Collins is a top 10 scorer in Nassau County, averaging 19 points per game through 10 games.

Jonathan Davis sliced through Freeport’s defense, getting to the rim and posting an eight-point performance. Nelson Contreras also finished with eight.

Adjustments were made by Johnson, as the two teams tied in points scored in the second quarter, 21-21, though Hempstead led 48-31 at halftime.

“Just running different sets and different plays against the defense they were playing,” Johnson said regarding his team’s adjustments for the second quarter. “We went to more of our zone sets against what they were doing.”

Junior Oneil Suero-Reyes, who is Freeport’s season-leading scorer, led the Red Devils with 7. Even though it wasn’t his best game against Hempstead, he is averaging 12.1 points per game on the season. His season best is 20 against Westbury on Dec. 29.

Sophomore guard Kevin Espinosa made an impact for Freeport, finishing with three points on the day.

The Red Devils’ two wins this season came against Valley Stream South (4938) on Jan. 3 and Hickville (53-50) on Dec. 15. A team that looked more like itself has gotten away from that style of

Ron Manfredi/Herald

Junior Oneil Suero-Reyes is the leading scorer for the Red Devils, who face an uphill climb in the standings. play.

“I just think we were the better team those nights,” Johnson said. “This conference is really tough to win. I think all the teams are equal in terms of talent, but some teams play harder than others.

I don’t think we’re at that part yet where we’re playing hard, digging in and lying down.

“Against Valley Stream South, we got out to an early lead and we had a 26-point lead against Hicksville,” he added.

Junior Keven Valdez, who is known

for defense, had four points in Saturday’s loss.

“He’s more of a defender and he’s always against the best offensive player,” Johnson said. “But today you couldn’t tell because you had No. 4 [Collins], No. 5 [Davis] and No. 1 [Sarduy] shooting lights out from three. So unfortunately, he can’t go on all three of them. Other guys just got to step up and do their job.”

Freeport will hit the road for a difficult battle against Uniondale (5-2) on Jan. 15. Tip-off is set for 5 p.m.

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L.I. roots shape Blakeman’s bid for governor

By MOHAMMAD RAFIQ & ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO Special to the Herald

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman announced last month that he would run for governor this year. His bid attracted more media focus when his potential Republican primary contender, U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, abruptly dropped out of the race a week before Christmas, and when President Trump endorsed Blakeman the following day.

“As I travel around the state, one of the things that stands out is the fact that people are basically unhappy,” Blakeman, 70, told the Herald when asked why he was running. They’re miserable with [Gov.] Kathy Hochul’s leadership.” (Hochul will be challenged in a Democratic primary

by Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado.)

“The economy is doing very badly in many portions of the state,” Blakeman added. “They need job creation, economic development. Communities are unsafe. They want more policing. They want more secure neighborhoods, and they don’t DONALD STEINERT like a lot of the policies that Kathy Hochul has, especially Former classmate, taking away a lot of the control Valley Stream over the schools from parents Central High School and trying to centralize it in Albany.”

Blakeman cited a number of the county’s accomplishments under his leadership. The county tax property levy has not changed during his first term. Nassau’s bond rating has been upgraded, and it has been recognized for being a safe place to live with a low poverty rate compared with the rest of the state.

T

he state is long overdue for a governor like Bruce, and I would love to see it.

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman announced on Dec. 9 that he would run for governor this year, launching a campaign focused on public safety, economic development and opposition to Gov. Kathy Hochul’s policies.

From Valley Stream to county power Blakeman, a lifetime Long Islander, was born in Oceanside in 1955. He graduated from Valley Stream Central High School, where he played basketball, and went on to attend Arizona State University and California Western Law School. As an attorney, he focused on real estate, commercial litigation, personal injury, land use, transportation, finance and insurance.

In 1993, Blakeman ran for public office for the first time, and was elected to the Hempstead Town Board.

Three years later, after the creation of the Nassau County Legislature, the then 41-year-old became the new body’s first presiding officer.

Blakeman lost the 1998 race for state comptroller to Democrat Carl McCall, and lost his seat in the Legislature the following year. In 2021 Blakeman was appointed by Gov. George Pataki — the last Republican to hold statewide office — to be a commissioner on the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, a position he held until 2009.

After a failed run at the U.S. Senate and an appointment to the Hempstead Town Board in 2015 — a fullcircle moment for Blakeman — he was selected by Nassau Republicans to challenge Democratic County Executive Laura Curran. He won an extraordinarily tight race by a .35 percent-point margin over the incumbent.

A familiar figure at home Steve Bello, now an executive vice president at Northwell Health, came to know Blakeman through his work at what was then Franklin General Hospital, later renamed Long Island Jewish Valley Stream.

Bello, who was the hospital’s president from 2016 to 2019, said his role required close engagement with community leaders and families who had long supported the institution. According to Bello, the Blakeman family was among the most influential supporters

Blakeman, a Valley Stream native, has served as county executive since 2022. He has cited flat property taxes, bond-rating upgrades and public safety initiatives as key accomplishments during his tenure. of the hospital, particularly at times when it faced financial and operational challenges.

Bello’s earliest interactions were with Blakeman’s father, Robert Blakeman, who served as a state assemblyman in the 1960s and a member of the board that approved the hospital’s transition to the Northwell system. As Robert’s health declined, Bello said, his son became more involved not only in his care, but also with the broader issues affecting the hospital and the surrounding community.

“Bruce had actually been working at that time as an attorney in the area, and had lots of influence with many folks,” Bello recalled. “When there were opportunities for the hospital to do better in one way or

another, where he was getting feedback from the community, [or] if there was an opportunity for the hospital to partner with people, so we could potentially expand our services, Bruce was always helpful … when it just came down to supporting the hospital publicly as a place of really excellent care and great opportunity.”

While Blakeman no longer has a formal role with the hospital, Bello said he remains engaged in health care issues and continues to support the institution.

“What I know is what that family has done for that community, the hospital, in particular,” Bello said. “If he’s able to translate that really personal, philanthropic and caring kind of sentiment that was evident in his support for the hospital into a larger role for him, politically, he would be wonderful.”

Donald Steinert’s connection with Blakeman dates back more than 50 years, to Valley Stream Central High School. Steinert, a Vietnam veteran who returned to finish high school in 1972, at age 20, recalled sharing a business law class with Blakeman.

Steinert said that Blakeman treated him with respect at a time when he felt out of place, which Steinert credits with helping him complete his education.

Steinert, who now lives in Suffolk County, supports Blakeman’s run for governor, believing his experience as county executive has prepared him for higher office.

“I wish the best for his governor’s run,” Steinert said. “The state is long overdue for a governor like Bruce, and I would love to see it.”

Not all Valley Stream residents see Blakeman’s candidacy through the same lens. Althea Campbell, who has lived in the village for 21 years, said she remembers Blakeman attending community events. She noted that his presence made him a familiar figure to residents, many of whom have followed his career. Campbell, a lifelong Democrat, said she supports Hochul and disagrees with aspects of Republican leadership.

“I have nothing personally against Bruce Blakeman, but [Hochul is] where my vote will go,” Campbell said. “But I think with the right support, anybody can excel, and I’m sure he can make a believer out of me.

But the current state of affairs,” she added, referring to the Republican Party, “is a little painful.”

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Color, abstraction and history converge Continued from page 1

them.”

She added that abstraction allows viewers to engage with her work without preconceived judgments. “I don’t want … to be judged based on that I’m a woman or person of color, but just judge my art for itself,” she said.

McNair said her early exposure to textiles also shaped her artistic approach. “So my mom was a seamstress, and I spent many, many years as a child just being around fabric and textiles,” she said. “I think that kind of led me to working in an abstract way.”

Born in Brooklyn and raised largely in Queens, she moved to Long Island about 30 years ago. She retired in 2019, after more than four decades as an art teacher — including work with elementary, middle school and special-needs students — and began focusing more on exhibiting and networking on Long Island.

“Now I’m living my best life,” she said.

McNair, who has taught at Hunter’s College, St. Peter’s College, and New York City Schools, is currently involved with several arts organizations, including Huntington Council for the Arts, Babylon Arts Council, Westbury Arts and the Long Island Black Artists Association.

In addition to her visual art, McNair is also the author of “Kwanzaa Crafts,” a book published in 1998 that grew out of her work teaching middle school students. “I discovered Kwanzaa, and we would do a lot of hands-on projects,” she said. “I put everything together and formed a book.”

She has led Kwanzaa workshops, she said, for more than 30 years in schools, museums and art centers.

Looking ahead to her Freeport exhibition, McNair said she hoped Rec Center visitors would be attracted to the energy of the work. “It draws people in,” she said. “It intrigues the viewer to stop and observe the energy that’s going on in the paintings. I hope that when people walk by, they won’t be able to walk by, they’ll have to stop and take a look at my work.”

Larry Dresner, executive director of the LIAC at Freeport, said the organization is proud to feature McNair’s work. “LIACF is thrilled that we can support and present Marcia’s great artwork during Black History Month,” he said.

In addition to the Freeport exhibition, McNair is taking part in several other upcoming events, including “Strength Through Creativity,” at Westbury Arts, Jan. 22-March 6; a group exhibition at Molloy University titled “Claiming the Sky: Art and Activism After Faith Ringgold,” through April 1; and a number of programs and exhibitions at the Oceanside Library.

The Feb. 5 opening reception at the Art Alcove is free and open to the public.

Photos courtesy Marcia McNair

marcia mcnair poses with her abstract paintings in a classroom setting, where she has spent decades teaching art and working with students of all ages.

marcia mcnair holds a copy of her book Kwanzaa Crafts, which she has used for more than three decades in workshops and educational programs.

‘Windows of Wonder,’ an acrylic on shaped canvas by marcia mcnair, reflects her interest in color systems, movement and abstraction.

‘the power Within,’ by marcia mcnair, uses intersecting forms and layered color.

artist marcia mcnair stands beside two of her abstract works during a gallery exhibition, where her paintings explore color, geometry and transparency.

Five Town officials sworn in for new terms

FREEPORT HERALD — January 15, 2026

By MELISSA BERMAN mberman@liherald.com

A quarter of a century after graduating from Division Avenue High School in Levittown, John Ferretti was sworn in as Town of Hempstead supervisor last week.

Councilwoman Dorothy Goosby, who serves as deputy supervisor; Councilman Dennis Dunne Sr.; Councilwoman Laura Ryder and Town Clerk Kate Murray were all inducted to another term.

Former Councilman Gary Hudes served as the evening’s emcee on Jan. 7. Nassau County Legislator Kayla Knight sang the national anthem, and County Clerk Maureen O’Connell led the Pledge of Allegiance.

“Being with this group is not just being with my colleagues,” County Executive Bruce Blakeman said.

“These are my friends — they are people I’ve had the opportunity and privilege of serving with.”

Joe Cairo, chairman of the Nassau County Republican Committee, swore Murray using on a 350-year old Bible. “Years from now, residents of the Town of Hempstead will remember the one name that stands out,” Cairo said. “We’ll always have Kate Murray.”

Murray began her 13th term in the town government. “As a lifelong resident of the town,” she said, “I have a deep sense of pride in giving back to the community in any way that I can.”

Goosby was sworn in by Frederick Brewington, a civil rights attorney, using a Bible wrapped in kente cloth the cloth of royalty in African tradition.

“She has continued to be a stalwart in regards to serving the people of the Town of Hempstead from stem to stern,” Brewington said. “She continues to be a beacon for many of us, and as a result of that, this past election she pulled more than 85 percent of the

Melissa Berman/Herald

Councilman Dennis Dunne Sr., far left, Councilwoman Laura Ryder, Town Clerk Kate Murray, Councilwoman Dorothy Goosby and Supervisor John Ferretti were sworn in to the Town Board on Jan. 7 at Division Avenue High School. votes.”

Goosby has been a councilwoman for 20 years, advocating for communities of color. “To be serving the people of the Town of Hempstead has been one of the most generous parts of my life,” she said. “I remain eternally grateful fro the trust you have placed in me over the years.”

County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder swore in both Dunne and Laura Ryder, his sister-in-law.

Dunne, also a Levittown native and a Division Avenue graduate, has served on the Town Board since 2017.

“Growing up in Levittown, America’s first suburb, I believe I have a unique perspective and appreciation of the American dream,” Dunne said. “I have lived the American dream here in the Town of Hempstead, and

I want to ensure that my children and future generations are able to achieve those same goals.”

Ryder, who previously served as a Lynbrook village trustee, began her second term as a councilwoman.

“Over the past three years, this role has brought me an incredible sense of purpose, personal fulfillment and one of the greatest honors of my life,” she said.

Ferretti, who was appointed interim supervisor following Don Clavin’s resignation last Aug. 5, was sworn in as supervisor by Cairo. “I’m profoundly honored by the trust the residents of the Town of Hempstead have in me,” Ferretti said. “I stand before you today with humility, gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility.

Today marks the beginning of a new chapter, not just for me but for the entire town.”

RichnerLIVE Announces the Long Island Business Summit Presented by Bank of America A Must-Attend Gathering for Business Leaders Ready to Grow, Scale, and Win in 2026

Expanding the Summit’s access to practical business insight and advisory expertise, CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen LLP) is a Workshop Sponsor of the Long Island Business Summit.

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“As a business and transactional attorney serving Long Island business leaders for over forty years, from garage startups to multigenerational corporations, I’ve seen many changes in the marketplace and legal landscape,” said Joseph Milizo, Managing Partner of Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP – Attorneys at Law. “But what I haven’t seen until now is a business expo that brings together professionals from across Long Island and across industries in one place. It’s an idea long overdue, and it’s my great pleasure to help produce it and strengthen the Long Island business community.”

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1331519

Local priorities frame the governor’s race

By JEFFREY BESSEN jbessen@liherald.com

Celebrating its centennial year, the Long Island Association hosted its annual State of the Region breakfast with Sen. Chuck Schumer speaking, a panel discussion moderated by LIA President Matt Cohen that included State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli, Nassau County Executive Bruce and Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine. Gov. Kathy Hochul was the final speaker.

Through the panel discussion at the Jan. 9 event highlighted several issues that most likely will the focal points of the gubernatorial race between Blakeman, the presumptive GOP candidate and Hochul, a Democrat.

“We have been very successful in Nassau County, we have the safest county in America, Niche magazine said we’re the most desirable place to live,” Blakeman said during the panel discussion.

Hochul spoke for roughly 30 minutes and used her time as part campaign stop and part preview of her State of the State address that will be delivered on Jan. 13. Unveiling a proposed five-year, $3.75 billion for water infrastructure.

“The environment of Long Island, it is everything, it means more here than most places because its, an island,” Hochul said, noting the $3 million she approved for upgrading septic systems.

She called the nearly $4 billion com-

Tim Baker/Herald

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, left, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, LIA President Matt Cohen and State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli during the State of the Region panel discussion on Jan. 9. mitment to build water infrastructure, including building sewers, “historic.”

Even before Hochul spoke, housing, Romaine said, must also be addressed — but through smarter planning and help from the state for vital infrastructure projects.

“Affordable housing is not an issue by itself,” he said. “You have to have the infrastructure — the sewers, the roads — to support it.”

Cohen noted the substantial growth the two-county region has undergone in the 100 years since the LIA was found.

“Since 1926, the population on Long Island has increased 900 percent, and we’ve really gone from a bedroom community of New York City to our own bustling, diverse, economic powerhouse,” he said in his opening remarks.

“We’re home to world renowned tourist destinations, the highest ranked education and health care institutions, and we’re still the embodiment of the American dream and have an unparalleled quality of life.

DiNapoli noted that while the state has a relatively strong economy, uncer-

tainty remains as federal decisions begin to impact funding for such items as healthcare, education, energy and nutrition programs The states large reserve funds will continue to support the economic region through these challenges.

“My role as comptroller is to remind everybody, at the end of the day, whatever the policy decisions are,” he said, “we have to look at the implications of our spending choice. Not just in the short run, for the coming years budget, but what will it mean a year, two, or three down the road.”

And while Cohen touched on Long Island’s expansion, DiNapoli noted that the state has seen a decrease in its young adult population, however there has been a jump residents’ ages 18 to 34.

A December report from DiNapoli’s office on Gen Z and millennial New Yorkers struggling with economic and affordability challenges noted the overall decline is a result of rising housing costs and a job market that lacks entrylevel positions.

Schumer noted he just completed his 27th year visiting all of New York’s 62 counties.

“The mantra that guides my work and all of my staff is this: when Long Island does well all of New York does well.”

Madison Gusler, Carolyn James and Jordan Vallone contributed to this story.

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Mulchfest turns Christmas trees to compost

FREEPORT HERALD — January 15, 2026

By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com

While ornaments and lights were boxed away for another year, some Wantagh and Seaford residents gave their Christmas trees a second life by turning them into mulch.

Several locals joined neighbors from across the South Shore at Echo Park in West Hempstead on Jan. 10 for the Town of Hempstead’s sixth annual Mulchfest. The environmentally friendly event invites residents to drop off their natural Christmas trees to be shredded into nutrient-rich mulch.

“Mulchfest has become a cherished tradition in our town, and this year’s event was another great success,” said Town Supervisor John Ferretti. “Residents once again showed their commitment to environmental responsibility by repurposing their Christmas trees in a way that benefits both their own gardens and our community spaces.”

Town of Hempstead Parks and Recreation employees oversaw the chipping process and distributed fresh mulch to participants, who were encouraged to take it home for use in gardens or landscaping projects.

Mulch helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, and can improve plant health year-round.

In addition to the trees, the town also collected broken-down cardboard for recycling, further supporting its push toward sustainable waste practices. Any leftover mulch won’t go to waste. Officials said it will be used in Town of Hempstead parks for upcoming planting and landscaping, supporting the town’s long-term green goals.

Mulchfest promotes eco-friendly practices by preventing discarded trees from going to landfills and repurposing them in ways that benefit the environ-

Courtesy Town of Hempstead

Hempstead Town Supervisor John Ferretti, Councilman Thomas Muscarella, and Town Clerk Kate Murray helped a local resident turn his tree into mulch at the town’s 6th Annual Mulchfest. ment, such as improving soil health, retaining moisture, and reducing weeds. Residents still looking to recycle their Christmas trees can do so from Jan. 12-17 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the town’s extended drop-off location: Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve–the Town of Hempstead’s nature preserve, that boasts trails and panoramic views of the South Shore of

Long Island, along with piers for fishing and a kayak launch.

“The Town of Hempstead remains committed to promoting greener, more sustainable programs for our residents,” Ferretti added. “Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make this year’s Mulchfest another outstanding community event.”

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Hear from Lou DeBrino, Vice President of Customer Operations at PSEG Long Island to learn about practical tools, programs, and updates designed to help customers make confident, informed energy decisions.

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January 15, 2026 — FREEPORT HERALD

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STEPPING OUT

Join Mickey and friends on their latest adventure

By Karen Bloom

Comic showcase

Photos courtesy Feld Entertainment

Search for Tinker Bell through stunning worlds.

W

elcome the New Year with another dose of that wonderful world of Disney. The latest Disney ice extravaganza — “Mickey’s Search Party” — arrives at UBS Arena in Elmont to the delight of families who can’t get enough of their favorite Disney moments. Audiences can relive some of the iconic characters and stories — classic and new, now through Jan. 19.

Families embark on a quest with Mickey Mouse and pals as they follow Captain Hook’s treasure map for clues to find Tinker Bell after he attempts to capture her magic. This adventure delivers compelling storytelling — so be prepared to join this magical search and help unlock an epic • Now through Jan. 19, journey in a fast-paced, times vary • Tickets start at $35, available family-friendly production at ticketmaster.com or that follows the search disneyonice.com for Tinker Bell through • UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead stunning worlds.

Tpke., Elmont With top-level skating, daring aerial stunts and memorable moments from beloved Disney tales, this all-out celebration delivers nonstop music, mischief and memories.

Journey across the Marigold Bridge with Miguel from Disney Pixar’s “Coco” into the magnificent and mystical Land of the Dead. The vibrantly colorful performance involves skeletons atop sway poles dancing over the audience in a beautiful cultural celebration of family.

Travel to the wintry world of Arendelle and sing along with Elsa as video projection creates a kaleidoscope of crystals to help build her ice palace. Watch Stitch crash the action with mischievous surprises. Witness Belle lift into the sky as everyone marvels as the enchanted chandelier comes to life high over the ice.

Also observe the power of teamwork when Buzz Lightyear, Woody and Jessie recruit the Green Army Men for a daring rescue in Andy’s room. Sail away with Moana on her daring voyage across the ocean and bravely encounter the fiery wrath of Te Ka. Plus, you’ll laugh hysterically as the hilarious pirates flip, tumble, and twist on tumble tracks, stilts and more in an effort to showcase their talents for Captain Hook. And even more fun awaits as the search party becomes an allout magical celebration.

These beloved characters are, of course, joined by Mickey and his crew: Minnie, Donald and Goofy.As always, the atmosphere is electric from the get-go.

“When Mickey first comes out, it’s always a big moment for everyone,” says ensemble skater Tess Terpos.

Certainly so for Terpos, who’s thrilled to step into the spotlight with the rest of the Disney skaters. It’s a magical moment for her — every time.

Ice skating been central to Terpos’ world, since her childhood in Maryland. After years of devotion to her craft — countless hours of practice, grueling

Known for their elite clever comedy, The Ivy League of Comedy visits the Madison Theatre. They’re a presence on late-night TV and Comedy Central and on the club circuit. The lineup features Keith Alberstadt, whose playful personality radiates.He mixes light-hearted sarcasm with southern charm and has become a favorite at comedy clubs. Also Clayton Fletcher (pictured), heard on Sirius/ XM Radio’s Laugh USA, Blue Collar Comedy, and Jamie Foxx’s Foxxhole stations. He has been featured on Hulu-TV’s “Comedy Brew,” MSNBC’s “Your Business,” ESPN’s “World Series of Poker,” and Comcast-TV’s “Who’s Laughing Now?” He allows us to see the world through the eyes of the son of a poker-playing mom and a jazz musician dad. And Jane Condon, mom of two boys, has been dubbed “an uppercrust Roseanne.”

She loves to tell stories about her adventures (mostly survival tales) with her husband and kids.

Saturday, Jan. 17, 8 p.m. Madison Theatre, Molloy University campus, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. Tickets available at madisontheatreny.org or (516) 3234444.

competitions and performances — the 28-year-old Terpos, a Towson University alum, found her way to the World of Mouse when she caught her break in 2021 with Disney On Ice. Now an established ensemble member with the tour, Terpos lives that Disney magic every day.

“Disney on Ice is so truly special and we with our audiences see that ‘magic’ come to life in truly personal way. I have found a home here. It’s a great place to be, surrounded all these special talented skaters and creative people who are as passionate as me.”

Her fondness for the stories and characters goes back to childhood.

“I loved ‘The Little Mermaid,’ Jasmine, all the princesses. I’d watch them over and over. There are even photos of me dressed up as princesses.”

Known for her classic yet playful approach on the ice, Terpos credits her strong foundation in basic skating skills for her versatility as a performer One of her most memorable moments came on opening night of her first professional show, when she was so overwhelmed with excitement that she cried as soon as she stepped off the ice.

“Skating with Disney On Ice is a dream come true for me,” she says. “It’s so special and the connection with our audiences is amazing.”

And everyone is right there with her.

“There are so many interactive elements where audiences get involved up close with the characters. That’s what makes it so special. We need the audience to help solve clues to get Tinkerbell back.”

As with her fellow cast members, Terpos’ skating skills enhance the high level of athleticism that is the hallmark of these spectacles. Solos, pairs and fast-paced ensemble skating with highflying jumps add to the appeal of the stories the audience knows so well.

Among the highlights, Terpos talents are on full display as she takes on the role of a napkin during the aerial sequence in the “Be Our Guest” scene from “Beauty and the Beast.”

“Napkins, forks, knives and spoons fly into the air. It’s really special and they [audiences] love it.”

In fact, there’s not a moment that wouldn’t be described as “special.”

“The show has something for everyone. It’s about magic and memories,” Terpos adds for emphasis.

That Disney magic: it’s all around us.

Paul Cornish Trio Newly signed to Blue Note Records, Los Angeles-based pianist and composer Paul Cornish is making waves as one of the most innovative new voices in jazz. Presented in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center, Tilles Center Atrium becomes an intimate lounge to showcase this exciting up-and-coming jazz talent. Cornish, who strives to inspire freedom and collaboration in his music and community, has performed extensively across the globe with such notable artists as Joshua Redman, Louis Cole, Mark Guiliana, and more. With Jonathan Pinson (drums) and Jermaine Paul (bass) he’ll perform selections from his Blue Note Records debut album “You’re Exaggerating. “ A Stanford Jazz Workshop alumnus, Cornish blends deep jazz roots with bold, forward-thinking vision, transforming tradition into an electrifying and inspiring musical journey. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness Cornish’s extraordinary artistry and boundless creativity live.

Thursday, Jan. 22, 7:30 p.m. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

FREEPORT HERALD — January 15, 2026

Epic moments on ice

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January 15, 2026 — FREEPORT HERALD

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YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD JAN

15

On Exhibit

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

Works from both American and European artists are featured. On view through March 8.

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

JAN

17

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 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.

• Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre • Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444

Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out

Long Island Children’s Museum’s welcomes all to the opening of its new exhibit. Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out provides interactive experiences that help visitors learn about the important role emotions, memory and imagination play in our everyday lives. Hands-on and digital experiences focus on the five

CALENDAR • Where: Eisenhower Park Field 5 • Time: 9:15 a.m.

• Contact: Events.EliteFeats.com

JAN

25

JAN

23

‘Cold Beer on a Saturday Night’

If the January frost has you dreaming of salt air and sun-drenched afternoons, it’s time to trade your snow boots for flip-flops — at least mentally. Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band are back to rescue us from the winter doldrums, bringing their high-energy “Ultimate Beach Party Tribute” to the Paramount stage. There’s no need to wait for the solstice to get your fix of island life. This Long Island-based powerhouse has spent over a decade perfecting the “Beach Country” genre. They masterfully blend the catalogs of the “Big Three” of tropical rock: Jimmy Buffett — for the Parrotheads looking to waste away in Margaritaville; Kenny Chesney — for the No Shoes Nation craving that Caribbean soul; Zac Brown Band — for the Zamily ready to keep their “toes” in the water and a cold beer in their hand. Led by Paul C. Cuthbert (the titular “Jimmy Kenny”) on lead vocals and acoustic guitar, the band delivers a lush, full sound that captures the easy-living flair of a Nashville-meets-Key-West concert. The lineup features: Linn DeMilta (Lovely Linn), bringing powerhouse lead and backing vocals; Luis Rios, with sizzling lead guitar riffs; Frank Stainkamp, with essential island vibes on the keyboards; Dan Prine and Mike Vecchione, a steady rhythm section keeping the groove alive on bass and drums. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the genre or just someone in desperate need of a “5 o’clock somewhere” state of mind, Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band offer more than just a concert — it’s an escape. Expect a lively, sing-along atmosphere where tthe spirits are high, and for a few hours, the Northeast winter simply doesn’t exist. Don’t be afraid to lean into the theme — floral shirts, straw hats, and leis are not just welcomed; they are practically the uniform of the night. The Paramount’s expansive floor transforms into a temporary shoreline where the boundary between the stage and the crowd disappears under the weight of anthemic choruses and shared nostalgia. Whether • Where: The Paramount, you’re raising a glass to the late Jimmy Buffett or swaying to a country ballad, the 370 New York Ave., Huntington infectious energy of the Pirate Beach Band ensures that the “summer state of mind” • Time: 8 p.m. isn’t just a catchphrase, but a reality. Gather your crew, and prepare to leave your • Contact: ticketmaster.com or winter coat at the door — you won’t be needing it where we’re going. paramountny.com

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

JAN

19

Let Freedom Ring with MLK

Visit Long Island Children’s Museum for a workshop honoring Martin Luther King, Jr. Families will learn about MLK beyond his “I Have a Dream” speech and gain a better understanding of his impact on the civil rights movement. Also participate in a gallery walk of images from that era and then create a bell to “let freedom ring.” The program is part of the AdvoKids monthly series that focuses on teaching kids how to advocate for themselves and others and teaching adults how to support their kids’ advocacy efforts. For ages 5 and up. Free with museum admission, but tickets required.

• Where: Museum Row,

Garden City • Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

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

JAN

22

Parent University: Your Mental Health Matters

A Parent University workshop focused on family mental health and wellness strategies at John W. Dodd Middle School.

• Where: 25 Pine St. • Time: 7-8 p.m.

• Contact: freeportschools.org

‘Anastasia The New Musical’

Molloy Performing Arts Club stages the musical inspired by the films. From Tony winners Terrence McNally, Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, creators of such Broadway classics as Ragtime and Once On This Island, this dazzling show transports its audience from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya enlists the aid of a dashing con man and a

lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love and family.

• Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre • Time: 7 p.m.; also Jan. 23, 8 p.m.; Jan 24, 1 and 7 p.m.

• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444

JAN

24

STEM Explorers: Winter Olympics

Long Island Children’s Museum invites families to get discover all that makes Olympics competition so exciting. From speed skating to alpine skiing, the Olympics are fun to watch, but did you know that they’re also filled with science?

Join the Green Teens in exploring speed, balance and aerodynamics.

This is a drop-in program, free with admission.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: Noon-2 p.m.

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

Icebreaker 5K

Step into the New Year with a frigid run through Eisenhower Park.

Art talk

Nassau County Museum of Art hosts Dee Shapiro, a New York–based artist, is known for her richly detailed paintings exploring geometry, architecture, and place. She discusses works from her City and Landscapes series featured in The Real, Surreal, and Photoreal exhibit, which capture the rhythm and structure of urban and natural environments.. $20, $15 seniors, $10 students (members free).

Limited seating, register in advance.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor • Time: 3 p.m.

• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

JAN

28

Board of Education Action Meeting

The Board of Education holds its next meeting at Caroline G. Atkinson Intermediate School. Stay up to date on district matters.

• Where: 58 Seaman Ave. • Time: 7:30-8:30 p.m.

• Contact: freeportschools.org

JAN

31

Lunar New Year Celebration

Families are invited to vibrant celebration of art and music when Nassau County Museum of Art ushers in the Lunar New Year, honoring the rich creative contributions of Chinese culture.

Activities include a Year of the Horse craft at the Manes Center.

Before or after art making, head to the mansion to enjoy cultural performances. $20, $10 child; members free. Registration required.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor • Time: 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 1- 2:30 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.

17

things to know hochul’s youth mental health push

By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com

Gov. Kathy Hochul is doubling down on her push to protect children’s mental health — both online and in schools. In her first State of the State proposals of the year, Hochul announced a legislative package aimed at keeping kids safe from online predators and AI-driven content, along with a major expansion of youth mental health training. Here are three things to know about the proposal.

New online safety laws for kids Hochul unveiled proposed legislation to better protect children on social media and gaming platforms from predators, scammers and harmful AI tools. The proposal calls for stricter age verification requirements, default privacy settings that block strangers from contacting kids, and disabling certain AI chatbot features for minors.

Parents would also gain control over in-app purchases and financial transactions. These proposals build on the governor’s earlier work to ban smartphones in schools, implement social media warning labels, and limit addictive content feeds.

The package draws inspiration from bills introduced by State Sen. Andrew Gounardes and Assemblymember Nily Rozic, and has support from Attorney General Letitia James.

“I’m honored to be recognized by The Herald and RichnerLIVE alongside so many leaders shaping the future of real estate. To me, real estate is about vision, storytelling, and creating lasting value this recognition is incredibly meaningful,” said Kelly.

Kelly’s success is rooted in sharp negotiation skills, deep market knowledge, and an entrepreneurial mindset that bridges luxury, media, and investment.

A “mom governor” focused on digital-era dangers

Hochul plans to expand Teen Mental Health First Aid training to all 10th graders statewide— reaching more than 180,000 students each year.

The program equips teens ages 15 to 18 with skills to identify and respond to signs of mental health and substance use issues in friends or classmates. Lessons focus on recognizing symptoms, understanding the impact of bullying and school violence, holding supportive conversations, and knowing when to seek adult help. New training for adults who work with youth will also roll out, teaching a five-step action plan to support students in both crisis and non-crisis situations. Research shows trained peers can recognize issues early—and sometimes save lives.

Hochul said her proposals reflect a deep commitment to protecting children from the mental health harms of growing up online. She cited the real-world risks posed by digital platforms that expose kids to explicit content and online predators. “These proposals will create a nation-leading standard,” Hochul said, “that will ensure our kids’ safety in online and real-world environments where they spend time.” In addition to legislation, her administration has expanded schoolbased mental health clinics, community care programs and peer-to-peer support—positioning New York as a national leader in youth mental health policy.

Her influence extends beyond individual sales; she has helped redefine how high end residential properties are positioned, marketed, and experienced, setting a new standard for client centric, strategic real estate.

The Herald and RichnerLIVE are proud to announce that Kelly Killoren Bensimon will be recognized with the Strategic Visionary in Luxury Real Estate Award at the 2026 HERALD Real Estate Achievement & Leadership (R.E.A.L.) Awards, taking place on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at 99 Quaker Meeting House Road in n Farmingdale.

This prestigious award celebratess Kelly Killoren Bensimon’s exceptional expertise in luxury real estate and her distinctive nctive ability to combine market insight with lifestyle driven strategy. With h extensive hands-on experience in New York City real estate, Kelly approaches each property not just as a transaction but as a story, carefully blending timing, branding, and market intelligence to create lasting value.

Mental health training coming to every 10th grader

Most recently, Kelly is known for her key role in a standout New York City transaction, stand underscoring her leadership and impact in the underscor market.

2026

“Kelly “Kell Killoren Bensimon embodies the modern moder evolution of luxury real estate where insight, t strategy intersect,” said brand, and Amy Amato, Executive Director, RichnerLIVE. “Her ability to anticipate the market while elevating the client experience makes her a natural choice for this award.”

The R.E.A.L. Awards celebrate leaders across the real estate and development community who are shaping Long Island and the greater New York region through innovation and vision. The evening will feature an exclusive honoree and sponsor reception, cocktail hour, dinner, and awards presentation.

For more information about the R.E.A.L. Awards, visit https://www.richnerlive.com/

- Anna Graci

Photo Credit: MIH Global LLC

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FREEPORT HERALD — January 15, 2026

Hochul targets online threats, youth mental health

Congratulations to all who participated in The Herald Wrapping Paper Contest!

ace Alden Terr hool y Sc Elementar

John Street Elem entary School Winners

Farmingdale High School

Lindell Ele mentary School

Freeport High School

t t Stree Walnu School

entary LB

West Elem

Freeport H igh School

California Aven ue School

Thank you to all the parents and teachers who helped make this possible.

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January 15, 2026 — FREEPORT HERALD

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LFRE1-2 0115

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 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 NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST DIANA J. BARNES A/K/A DIANE CARTER A/K/A DIANA CARTER; ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 7, 2017, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 5, 2026 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 39 Lessing 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, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 55 Block: 377 Lots: 1267, 1268, and 1269.

Approximate amount of judgment $331,470.41 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold

subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #011584/2007. Janine T. Lynam, Esq., Referee Fein, Such & Crane, LLP 28 East Main Street Rochest er, NY 14614 NSRNC625 88221 157625

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE UNDER THE POOLING AND SERVICING AGREEMENT DATED AS OF OCTOBER l, 2006, GSAMP TRUST 2006-HE7, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-HE7 Plaintiff, Against FRAZIER EDWARDS A/K/A FRAZIER EDWARDS, JR, et al Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 06/10/2025, 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 2/10/2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 30 Porterfield Pl., 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 Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, and State of New York.

Section 54 Block 91 Lot 209 The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $635,724.65 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 000576/2017 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.

Jared Kasschau, Esq., Referee.

MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573 Dated: 12/26/2025 File Number: 560-3683

CA 157730

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR CARRINGTON MORTGAGE LOAN, TRUST, SERIES 2005OPT2, ASSET BACKED PASS THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2005-OPT2 Plaintiff, Against CYNTHIA CRAIG A/K/A CYNTHIA A. CRAIG, et al Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 06/18/2025, 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 2/9/2026 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 153 Connecticut Avenue, Freeport, NY 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 Incorporated Village of Freeport, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Section 0055 Block 00388.00 Lot 00198 The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $830,747.82 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 612946/2018 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.

Georgia Papazis, Esq., Referee.

MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573 Dated: 12/26/2025 File Number: 18-300586 CA 157728 PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: 18 Bedell Street LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 9/19/25 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: Law Office of Howard Colten, 53 E.Merrick Rd 237, Freeport, NY 11520 Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity.

157734 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING DATE CHANGE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to §128-5 of the Freeport Village Code, a Special Meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Freeport to conduct public hearings on Monday, January 12, 2026 HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED to Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 5:30 P.M., in the Municipal Building, Board of Trustees Conference Room, 46 North Ocean Avenue, 2nd Floor, Freeport, NY adjacent to the Mayor’s Office.

Pamela Walsh Boening Village Clerk Issue Date: January 9, 2026 157834 LEGAL NOTICE FREEPORT COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENCY NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Board of Directors of the Freeport Community Development Agency will conduct a public hearing on Thursday, February 5, 2026, commencing at 5:30 pm, at the Freeport Village Hall, 46 North Ocean Avenue (second floor – main public meeting room), Freeport, NY, for the purpose of obtaining citizen input on the proposed Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Action Plan for the 52nd Program Year (2026-2027).

An estimated $750,000 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding is anticipated for the 2026-2027 Program Year. The amount to be

allocated for the support of public service programs may not exceed 15% of this amount.

All proposals for public service agency funding shall be submitted to the Freeport Community Development Agency, 11 Richmond Street (second floor), Freeport, NY, not later than 4:30 PM, Monday, February 2, 2026. Any proposer wishing to do so will be provided the opportunity to discuss its proposal at the public hearing, however, proposals will not be accepted at the public hearing.

Further information may be obtained by contacting Jeanne Jordan, Executive Director, at (516) 442-4844.

By Order of the Board of Directors Freeport Community Development Agency January 9, 2026 157833 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS THREE PHASE PADMOUNTED TRANSFORMERS FOR THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF FREEPORT ELECTRIC DEPARTMENT 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 the “Furnishing of Three Phase Padmounted Transformers” until 4:00 P.M. on Friday, March 6, 2026.

Completed proposals are to be delivered to Ms. Taylor D’Orta, Buyer, Inc. Village of Freeport, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York 11520.

Specifications, proposal and proposed contracts may be seen and obtained at the Purchasing Department, Municipal Building, 1st Floor, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York 11520, or by visiting the Village’s Website at www.freeportny.gov.

Copies of the Request for Proposals will be available from 9:00 A.M. on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, until 4:00 P.M. on Friday, March 6, 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 candidate.

Proposals which, in the opinion of the Board, are unbalanced shall be rejected.

In submitting a proposal, candidates agree not to withdraw their proposal within forty five (45) days after the date for the opening thereof.

Taylor D’Orta, Buyer Purchasing Department Village of Freeport VILLAGE OF FREEPORT Issue Date - January 15, 2026 157835 LEGAL NOTICE SITE PLAN REVIEW BOARD MEETING JANUARY 27, 2026 NOTICE IS HEREBY given that a Public Hearing will be held before the Site Plan Review Board on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at 6:45 P.M., in the Incorporated Village of Freeport, Main Conference Room, 46 N. Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York, on Site Plan applications as they appear on the calendar; public comment invited. The Board will meet at 6:30 P.M. in the Trustees Conference Room to discuss cases not requiring a public hearing; open to the public, no public comment.

INTERESTED PROPERTY OWNERS and other persons should appear at the above time and place to have questions answered and to voice opinions.

SP-3441 - 248 Buffalo Avenue, Section 62/Block 230/Lot 43.

Industrial B, Avie Pfeiffer. Construct new 239 sq. ft. 1-story addition and elevate the existing roof line of the building. Approved 2/23/2021 Reopen hearing for changes.

SP-3865 147A Woodcleft Avenue, Section 62/Block 177/Lot 534. Marine Commerce, ABMK Investment Group Corp. Construct 1_story north side addition 224 sq. ft, 1-story south side addition 169 sq. ft., roof over rear and side deck 424 sq. ft. and new pergola 240 sq. ft.

SP-3867 267 Roosevelt Avenue, Section 62/Block 152/Lot 337. Residence A, Balcon Group.

Construct 2,904 sq. ft 3-story 1-family dwelling with attached garage.

SP-3868 265 Roosevelt Avenue, Section 62/Block 152/Lot 336. Residence A, Balcon Group.

Construct 2,300 sq. ft 3-story 1-family dwelling with attached garage SP-3873 - 86 S Main Street, Section 55/Block 481/Lot 60. Business B - IPS Trading Inc. Façade renovations.

BY ORDER OF THE PLANNING BOARD Pamela Walsh Boening, Village Clerk 157837 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO BIDDERS 2026 ANNUAL WELL MAINTENANCE CONTRACT 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 the following contract: 2026 ANNUAL WELL MAINTENANCE CONTRACT 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 seen and obtained at the Office of the Purchasing Agent, Municipal Building, 1st Floor, 46 North Ocean Avenue, Freeport, New York, 11520, or by visiting the Village’s Website at www.freeportny.gov.

Bids will be available from 9:00 A.M. from Tuesday, January 20, 2026 until 4:00 P.M. Friday, January 30, 2026.

There is no charge for the bid documents.

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.

Taylor D’Orta Buyer Village of Freeport VILLAGE OF FREEPORT

FREEPORT HERALD — January 15, 2026

Public Notices

19

20

Public Notices

January 15, 2026 — FREEPORT HERALD

LFRE2-2 0115

Issue Date - January 15, 2026 Freeport 157836 Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com

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 REO TRUST 2017RPL1, Plaintiff, vs. THE UNKNOWN HEIRS-ATLAW, NEXT-OF KIN, DISTRIBUTEES, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, TRUSTEES, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST, AND GENERALLY ALL PERSONS HAVING OR CLAIMING, UNDER, BY OR THROUGH THE DECEDENTS VIOLA WHALEY AND WALTER GRABOWSKI BY PURCHASE, INHERITANCE, LIEN OR 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 the Guardian Ad Litem, Amending Caption, Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale and for Nunc Pro Tunc Relief duly entered on August 4, 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 February 13, 2026 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 62 East First Street, 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 69 and Lot 189.

Approximate amount of judgment is $390,426.96 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #616841/2022.

Cash will not be accepted.

Michelle Aulivola, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York

10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 157831

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR LEGACY MORTGAGE ASSET TRUST 2019-GS7, Plaintiff -againstEULALEE PARKER; RAMON PARKER, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated July 26, 2023 and entered on July 28, 2023, 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 February 17, 2026 at 2:30 p.m. premises 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 southerly side of Morton Avenue, distant 125 feet easterly from the corner formed by the intersection of the southerly side of Morton Avenue with the easterly side of Brookside Avenue; being a plot 50 feet by 100 feet by 50 feet by 100 feet.

SBL# 0054-00299-00281 Said premises known as 61 MORTON AVE, FREEPORT, NY 11520 Approximate amount of lien $632,558.32 plus interest & costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.

Index Number 608057/2020.

CHESTER H. GREENSPAN, ESQ., Referee Kosterich & Skeete, LLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 707 Westchester Ave, Suite 302, White Plains, NY 10604 {* FREEPORT LEADER*} 157752 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, BRIDGEWELL CAPITAL, LLC, Plaintiff, vs.

TANDEM ENTERPRISE LLC, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment

of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on February 6, 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 February 18, 2026 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 319 South Main Street, 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 44 and Lot 394.

Approximate amount of judgment is $1,198,937.49 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #600164/2022.

Oscar Prieto, Esq., Referee Vallely Mitola Ryan PLLC, 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 165, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 157812

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR ABFC 2006OPT1 TRUST, ASSET BACKED FUNDING CORPORATION ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-OPT1, Plaintiff, Against ROBERT BELL,· CHRISTINE BELL, et al Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 11/26/2025, 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 11501 on 2/17/2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 311 Park Avenue, Freeport, NY 11520, NY 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 Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York.

Section 54 Block 309 Lot 277 and 278.

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $977,850.09 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 013367/2010 If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction.

This Auction will be held rain or shine.

Scott H Siller, Esq., Referee.

MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573 Dated: 12/29/2025 File Number: 17-300065 CA 157829

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 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

Courtesy Peter M. Budraitis

Alternate Deputy Minority Leader Debra Mulé was sworn in for a fifth term during inaugural ceremonies held on Jan. 8 at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Uniondale.

Mulé sworn in for fifth term Alternate Deputy Minority Leader Debra Mulé, whose district includes Freeport, was sworn in for a fifth term representing Nassau County Legislature District 6 during inaugural ceremonies held on Jan. 8 at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Uniondale.

Mulé took the oath of office alongside her Democratic Caucus colleagues before an audience of family members, friends and supporters. New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli administered the oath. At the start of the ceremony, Mulé also led the hundreds in attendance in singing the National Anthem.

The swearing-in ceremony marked the official start of the new legislative term for Nassau County lawmakers.

The event drew elected officials, civic leaders and residents from across the county.

District 6 includes significant portions of Oceanside and Baldwin as well as the entire village of Freeport. Mulé has represented the district since first being elected in 2015 and currently serves as alternate deputy minority leader, a leadership role within the Leg-

islature’s Democratic caucus.

Fo l l ow i n g t h e c e re m o ny, M u l é expressed gratitude to residents for their continued support and reaffirmed her commitment to public service.

“I am deeply humbled that the communities of District 6 have once again entrusted me with the privilege of representing them, and I will do everything in my power to make government work better and more equitably for the people of Nassau County,” Mulé said.

She also looked ahead to the new legislative term, emphasizing collaboration and progress.

“Working together, I know that we will accomplish great things in 2026, and I cannot wait to continue this journey of service alongside you,” Mulé said.

As she begins her fifth term, Mulé is expected to continue focusing on issues affecting her South Shore district, including infrastructure, public safety and economic development, while advocating for policies aimed at promoting equity and effective local governance.

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

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

–Abigail Grieco

Public Notices

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

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 Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com

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Employment

CLASSIFIED

Fax your ad to: 516-622-7460 E-mail your ad to: ereynolds@liherald.com E-mail Finds Under $100 to: sales@liherald.com DEADLINE: Monday, 11:00 am for all classified ads.

To pLACE your AD CALL 516-569-4000 - press 5

Every effort is made to insure the accuracy of your ad. Please check your ad at the first insertion. Credit will be made only for the first insertion. Credit given for errors in ads is limited to the printed space involved. Publisher reserves right to reject, cancel or correctly classify an ad.

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

Salary Range is $17 per hour to $20 per hour.

For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: circulationassociate@liherald.com

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers.

Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience.

Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must.

Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome! $22 - $27/ Hour Bell Auto School 516-365-5778

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EDITOR/REPORTER

Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business.

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.

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FREEPORT HERALD — January 15, 2026

HERALD

January 15, 2026 — FREEPORT HERALD

22

C2 01/15

Homes

HERALD

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

HOME OF THE WEEK

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

Oceanside

The Best of the Best

A zoning variance for a bigger den?

Q. I wanted to add on to the den on the side of my house. The den has been there since 1930. The problem I’m having is that if I want to make the addition so that it’s in alignment with the current den, the side distance to my property line is too close, by 12 inches, according to my building department. They say that I have to match the code requirement that was adopted in 1938, so instead of having a straight wall going all the way back, I either need to make a jog in the wall or go for a zoning variance. It just doesn’t make sense. I’m not adding a monster-sized addition, just 10 feet by 10 feet on the side of my house, behind tall hedges. My neighbor doesn’t mind, so what can I do about this?

A. Not much, except decide whether you want a ridiculous-looking room with a jog in the wall or want to spend the money and time to go through the zoning variance process. When I see cases like this, I understand the intent of the law, but not the “spirit” of the law.

The intent is to prevent the construction of buildings too close to a properonte eeper ty line, based on historical catastrophes such as the London fire and the Chicago fire, both of which saw hundreds of lives lost and tens of thousands of buildings destroyed, mainly because of their closeness to one another and their ability to burn easily.

We live in a modern age in which materials have been tested, analyzed, certified and regulated to limit flame spread, and communities have been set up with strict guidelines to leave spaces between buildings for safety and appearance. But knowing, or not remembering, this, communities may invoke the strictness of the law like a stern punishment, or look at the separate conditions and merits of each case, deciding that your straight wall versus a jogged wall isn’t going to hurt anyone and, being located on the side or behind your house, isn’t going to detract from the character of the community.

Some building departments have been given the flexibility to make these decisions, to avoid throwing the baby out with the bathwater, and have the authority to give approval for minor issues. Some municipalities have even gone so far as to pass ordinances allowing the discretion of building departments to allow for the alignment of built structures, previously approved, on the first story. It makes sense not to put homeowners through an unnecessary hearing process, sometimes costing thousands of dollars and many months of delay, just so they can have a straight wall.

Allowing alignment with a previously approved part of a building isn’t the same as having a flammable wall too close to a property line or another building. In the long run, a variance will be worth it. Otherwise the weird wall shift won’t be understood or be beneficial to you. Good luck!

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L

© 2026 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

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Market Place • •

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

FREEPORT HERALD — January 15, 2026

HERALD

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January 15, 2026 — FREEPORT HERALD

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Answers to todAy’s puzzle

25

oPinions

ope Leo’s decision to accept the resignation of Cardinal Timothy Dolan, effective in the next several weeks, has significance for the entire New York metropolitan area. Going back to the 19th century, the archbishop of New York has played an often outsized role in the life of the city, with an influence extending beyond Catholics and beyond the city itself, into the suburbs.

There was Archbishop John Hughes, in the 1860s, mobilizing support to protect PETER St. Patrick’s Cathedral from KinG threats by the Know Nothings to burn it down. In the mid-20th century, Cardinal Francis Spellman spoke out about national issues and against what he viewed as remnants of anti-Catholicism. He met regularly with government, political and business leaders, which led friends as well as critics to label him “the American Pope” and St. Patrick’s “the Powerhouse.”

Cardinal John O’Connor, who held the position from 1984 to 2000, came from a working-class and military background.

He mastered the art of communicating through the media, taking outspoken stands on various issues such as workers’ rights in New York and human rights in Ireland and, most significantly, working extensively to strengthen interfaith relations with the many other religions mixed into the city’s ecumenical melting pot. Particularly memorable was O’Connor’s close friendship with Mayor Ed Koch and their joint efforts against antisemitism, including a popular book they coauthored.

Also meaningful was a television special on which O’Connor and Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel decried the evil of antisemitism and all religious bigotry.

Personally, I had a strong friendship with O’Connor, highlighted by his refusal to back down to pressure from the British government when its consulate urged him not to review the 1985 St. Patrick’s Day Parade because I served as its grand marshal.

O’Connor’s funeral, at St. Patrick’s in

T

May 2000 — attended by countless luminaries, including President Bill Clinton and first lady Hillary Clinton, and future President George W. Bush and future first lady Laura Bush, befitted an acknowledged national leader.

Dolan was chosen by Pope Benedict in 2009 to lead New York’s Catholics, and, though he was born and raised in St. Louis, he immediately established himself as a true New Yorker. My wife, Rosemary, and I got to know Dolan well, and are proud to call him our friend. We were privileged to have him as a guest for dinner in our Seaford home, and attended numerous events with him, including Midnight Mass, on Christmas Eve; private lunches at his residence, with retired New York City Police Commissioner Ray Kelly and his wife, Veronica; and Dolan’s annual St. Patrick’s Day brunches, replete with a cross-section of elected officials including Mayor Eric Adams, Gov. Kathy Hochul and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman as well as religious leaders such as Rockville Centre Bishop John Barres and Rabbi Joe Potasnik, of

hough he was born and raised in St. Louis, he became a true New Yorker.

the New York Board of Rabbis.

Now that he has reached the mandatory retirement age of 75 and the pope has accepted his retirement, Dolan’s omnipresence in New York, and his unfailing sense of humor, will be sorely missed. He was always there, for those of all religions, especially in times of need. I distinctly recall being with him at meetings with officials from the Department of Homeland Security, trying to obtain funding to protect houses of worship from terrorist attacks.

Similarly, I remember discussing with Dolan and Potasnik strategies for requesting Covid relief funds for religious entities from the Trump administration. I particularly recall Dolan being a lone voice speaking out on behalf of the police during the violent demonstrations in the summer of 2020.

Dolan has been a gift to New York.

Fortunately, he has chosen to remain here, and take up residency in a Manhattan parish. I wish him the best of health, happiness and peace, and congratulations on a job well done. An era has passed.

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

Listening first: prioritizing the suburban perspective

T

he most important responsibility I have in representing the people of Assembly District 21 is listening. I work hard to ensure that their voices are heard in Albany. In a representative democracy, our system only works when the people we elect are attentive to the voices, concerns and lived experiences of the communities they serve.

My job isn’t simply to vote on legislation, but to make sure that the perspectives of our suburban neighborhoods in Nassau County judy are clearly reflected and underGRiffin stood in Albany, especially when those perspectives differ from those of other regions of New York state.

As a member of the Assembly majority, I serve on several committees and caucuses that shape policy on issues that affect our daily lives, including affordability, public safety, education, health care, the environment and our overall quality of life. These forums are where ideas are debated, agreements are made and priorities are set. In those rooms it is essential that the realities of the 21st District aren’t lost in the noise.

The 2026 Legislative Session brings a

full agenda of complex and impactful issues, many of which will be addressed through budget negotiations and legislative deliberations over the coming months. While I bring my experience and judgment to these discussions, I also know that effective representation requires something more: a steady and accurate understanding of what matters most to you.

That’s why, later this month, I will share my 2026 Constituent Survey, and urge you to respond. The survey is one of the most important tools I have to ensure that your priorities remain front and center as decisions are made in Albany. While I have a strong sense of where our district stands on many issues, hearing directly from you through a structured, districtwide survey helps me advocate with greater precision on your behalf.

Your participation in this survey is vital. It will ask for your thoughts on issues such as:

M

■ Addressing environmental policies while weighing costs; ■ The benefits and consequences of allelectric mandates; ■ Supporting small businesses;

y job is to deliver your message to state leaders and my colleagues.

■ The affordability challenges facing Long Island, especially housing and energy costs; ■ Access to quality, affordable health care and prescription drugs; ■ Child care and family support; ■ Rising grocery and food prices;

■ Public safety and prioritizing victims’ rights.

It is vital that elected officials remain steadfast in keeping the interests of the people who elected them in the forefront, especially in the face of numerous, and sometimes insistent, positions of others who view things differently.

You may hear a great deal about “special interests” and their role in state government. Albany is a busy place. On any given day, the halls of our state government are filled with people advocating for a wide range of causes. Constituents, union leaders, professional lobbyists and associations representing thousands of New Yorkers are a constant presence. They seek to advance or defeat targeted issues.

Sometimes these goals and objectives are aligned with the majority of 21st District residents, and sometimes they aren’t. While these groups are important to an open government process, the voices of the people of A.D. 21 are paramount.

I often meet with people who travel to

Albany from our district, and elsewhere in Nassau County, to fight for funding for our public schools, libraries, health care and other state systems that maintain and improve our thriving Long Island communities. Over the years I have been grateful for the honest and respectful conversations. These exchanges, whether in my district office, at community events, in Albany or in written correspondence, are democracy in action.

My personal standards of ethics bind me to a representation of you that delivers your message to state leaders and my Assembly and Senate colleagues. At times this can be a challenge, especially when regional differences and values clash. When this occurs, it is important that your elected representatives in Albany be in the key places where the voices of the 21st District can be heard.

Our majority conferences and regional caucus discussions are just two examples of that.

I hope you’ll take a few minutes to complete my 2026 Constituent Survey and share what matters most to you and your family. The results will directly inform my advocacy and legislative work. The survey will be available on my website by Friday, and later will be mailed to households.

Your voice matters, and it’s my job to listen.

Judy Griffin represents the 21st Assembly District.

FREEPORT HERALD — January 15, 2026

P

Cardinal Dolan retires, and an era has passed

26

Herald editorial

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January 15, 2026 — FREEPORT HERALD

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Long Island’s priorities are bipartisan

he message that emerged from last Friday’s annual Long Island Association State of the Region breakfast was focused on ideas that matter deeply to everyone who calls Long Island home: affordable housing, clean water, reliable energy, fiscal responsibility and caring for the most vulnerable.

The event brought together voices from across the political spectrum: Gov. Kathy Hochul, U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer, State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, just to name a few.

Unsurprisingly, with Hochul and Blakeman widely expected to face each other in November’s gubernatorial election, some of the discussion previewed the themes that will likely define the campaign ahead. But the most striking takeaway was not the contrast in party labels — it was the amount of common ground.

Long Island’s growth and success were recurring themes. LIA President Matt Cohen noted that since the organization was founded in 1926, the region’s population has increased by 900 percent, transforming what was once largely a bedroom community into a diverse economic engine with world-class schools, hospitals and tourist destinations.

Schumer, reflecting on decades of visiting every corner of the state, noted

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letters We need the arts ‘now more than ever’ To the Editor: I read Robert Scott’s op-ed last week, “The arts on Long Island are for you,” regarding the need for regional arts infrastructure while inviting Long Islanders into the art world. I so appreciate this outreach, as I feel Long Island and the country as a whole need the arts now more than ever.

As a resident of Massapequa, I’m currently in the “planting phase” of establishing an Arts Center of Massapequa here. The Long Island Arts Alliance’s data on the $330 million economic impact of Long Island arts is the backbone of our current pitch. We are building the ACM for many reasons: to bridge the “infrastructure gap” Scott identified, to ensure that our town can finally capture its fair share of state funding, and to remind our community members that art and community aren’t extreme luxuries —

that when Long Island does well, all of New York does well.

Water infrastructure emerged as a point of broad agreement. In her remarks, Hochul previewed a proposed five-year, $3.75 billion investment in that infrastructure, calling it historic. On an island where drinking water comes from a sole-source aquifer, protecting water quality is not optional — it is existential.

Upgrading sewers, improving wastewater treatment and replacing outdated septic systems are investments that will pay dividends for generations, regardless of who occupies the governor’s office.

Blakeman pointed to Nassau County’s public safety record and quality of life, citing national recognition as one of the most desirable places to live.

Housing affordability dominated much of the conversation, particularly as younger New Yorkers struggle to remain in the region. DiNapoli referenced a recent report from his office showing that Gen Z and millennials are being squeezed by high housing costs and limited entry-level job opportunities — a troubling trend for a region that depends on retaining its workforce and future leaders.

Romaine underscored that affordable housing cannot be addressed in isolation; it requires smart planning and significant investment in infrastructure such as roads and sewers to support new

development.

Energy infrastructure, including offshore wind, food security, support for safety-net hospitals and maintaining a strong social safety net, was also part of the discussion. These are foundational responsibilities of government. People cannot go hungry. Communities cannot thrive without reliable health care. Economic growth means little if it leaves large segments of the population behind.

What was perhaps most encouraging was DiNapoli’s reminder of fiscal discipline. Even in a relatively strong economy, uncertainty looms as federal funding decisions evolve. Thoughtful, responsible budgeting — looking not just at the next election cycle but years down the road — is itself a bipartisan value.

This election year will bring sharp rhetoric and clear contrasts. That is inevitable, and healthy, in a democracy.

But the ideas discussed at the State of the Region breakfast should not become casualties of partisanship. They are good ideas — the kinds of ideas that all elected officials, at every level of government, should be eager to pursue. All of the state’s leaders must resist the temptation to govern by party line alone.

The issues highlighted at the breakfast must remain priorities, regardless of which way the political winds blow.

27

opinions

i

’m sure that at some point in your life, someone has uttered an expression that you’d never heard or didn’t understand. There are many of these weird turns of phrase, but my favorite is, “What am I, chopped liver?”

It may have ethnic overtones, but it has been used by countless comedians over the decades.

No one can pinpoint exactly when the chopped-liver inquiry was born, but it is said to have emanated from Jewish families in the 1930s.

Its purpose was to JerrY make it clear to kremer someone that just like chopped liver is a side dish at a dinner, nobody wants to be treated like a side dish in life. I heard the phrase for the first time at a family dinner, and then I heard the late, great comedian Jimmy Durante growl, “I ain’t chopped liver.”

I can think of a few people and institutions that I can apply the comparison to, and you’ll better understand how

wonderfully it fits. Let’s start with the apparent attitudes of the owners of the Mets and Yankees toward the teams’ fans. There are no people more loyal to the cause of winning sports in New York than Yankees and Mets followers. We pack the teams’ parks throughout the season, pay ridiculous sums of money for tickets, food and souvenirs, and in the end, the Mets’ Steve Cohen and the Steinbrenners, who own the Yankees, treat us like, yup, chopped liver.

All season long we slavishly follow every on-field play and off-field rumor, hoping they’ll be gameclinchers or season-changers. We argue endlessly with Dodgers and Red Sox fans about whose team is the best.

Every September, we hope and pray that our squad will make it to the playoffs. We shell out even more ridiculous sums of money to attend playoff game, and pray for the miracle that will propel our Yankees or Mets into the World Series.

To add to our collective chopped-liver misery, during the winter we check our

w

e pay absurd sums of money to pack their stadiums, but in the end . . .

Letters they belong to everyone.

I would be deeply honored if Dr. Scott would keep our project on his radar as we move toward acquiring fiscal sponsorship and formal 501(c)(3) filing. Thanks to Bob for being a fierce advocate for our region’s “creative spark.” I receive the Herald and always start on the Opinion pages, and I was absolutely delighted to find his words there.

KRISTA JENSEN Massapequa

Venezuela: America’s latest quagmire To the Editor: The United States’ adventures in Iran, Iraq and Libya have long been forgotten by those we trust to lead our country. With our move into Venezuela, we just gave China the political and moral approval to “liberate” Taiwan.

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s promise to restore the Soviet Union to its former glory has been reinforced and justified by our government’s recent actions.

Venezuela is twice the size of Cali-

phones way too often, in the hope that our team will make some trade or announce some surprise contract that will guarantee our October ticket to the Series. Late last year, the headlined departures of the Mets’ Brandon Nimmo, Edwin Diaz and Pete Alonso were like a collective lump of coal in our Christmas stocking.

To show what patsies we are, a couple of months from now, when spring training starts, we’ll ignore all the misery we’ve suffered and begin a new season of hope. We’ve screamed about the Mets losing favorite player after favorite player to other teams, and want to believe that something big will happen. Cohen says he is constantly looking for new stars and has an open checkbook, but he’s now concentrating on his new casino license and a neighboring soccer stadium. Mets fans? Chopped liver.

And the Yankees owners? During the winter, the Steinbrenners sign as many players as they can find, but the big moves, like signing another front-line pitcher or Cody Bellinger (maybe) don’t

fornia, with a population of 30 million, and has had one of the highest crime/murder rates in the world.

American oil companies and their employees will need protection to operate the oil fields. We already produce more oil than we need. Unlike America, the rest of the world is moving away from fossil fuels, especially China. We won’t sell to Russia or China. Where is the market that will buy the oil and generate the billions of dollars required to upgrade and protect our “interests” in Venezuela?

What is our government’s plan to move forward? I fear that we are heading into the abyss as our moral compass points more toward power and self-entitlement than to compassion and lifting those who need it most. We have invaded a sovereign nation and kidnapped its leader. Nicolas Maduro certainly is corrupt and murderous, but how can we justify our illegal actions on the world stage? Guerrilla warfare, as occurred in Iraq, Libya and other countries we tried to overthrow in the name of democracy, will overtake Venezuela. What and who are we becoming?

seem to be happening right now. According to Forbes and Sportico, the Yankees are valued at $8.2 billion to $8.4 billion, making them the most valuable franchise in baseball history. They claim they’re a break-even company, but their parent company, Yankee Global Enterprises, is estimated to make as much as $150 million annually.

We all know what would have happened if George Steinbrenner were still alive. The Yankees would resemble the Los Angeles Dodgers, who have an AllStar at virtually every position. But the Yankees management tells us that baseball is a business, and the sport’s luxury tax forces it to maintain a “tighter bottom line.” The counterpoint to that argument is what another baseball team owner told me: “When you win a World Series, there’s a gusher of new money to be made.”

For now, though, if a friend or relative asks you what the chopped-liver line refers to, tell them it’s all about being a Mets or Yankees fan.

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.

Framework by Tim Baker

ANTHONY BRANCATO East Meadow

Comments about our stories? Send a letter to the editor to execeditor@liherald.com.

At South Side High, the cast of “The Actor’s Nightmare” takes a break — Rockville Centre

FREEPORT HERALD — January 15, 2026

Mets and Yankees fans know plenty about chopped liver

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