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Local issues loom large in governor’s race part campaign stop and part preview of her State of the State address, which she delivCelebrating its centennial, ered on Tuesday. She has also the Long Island Association proposed spending $3.75 billion hosted its annual State of the over five years for water infraRegion breakfast, with remarks structure. “The environment of Long by Sen. Chuck Schumer and a panel discussion moderated by Island, it is everything — it LIA President Matt Cohen that means more here than most places because it’s included State an island,” Hochul Comptroller Tom said, noting the $3 DiNapoli, Nassau million she County Executive approved for Br uce Blakeman upg rading septic and Suffolk County systems. Executive Ed She called the R o m a i n e . G o v. nearly $4 billion Kathy Hochul was commitment to the final speaker. build water infraThe panel disstructure, includcussion at the Jan. ChUCK SChUMER ing building sew9 event highlighted Senator ers, “historic.” several issues that Even before most likely will be the focal points of the guberna- H o c h u l s p o k e , h o u s i n g , torial race between Blakeman, Romaine said, must also be the presumptive GOP candi- a d d re s s e d — bu t t h ro u g h smarter planning and help date, and Hochul, a Democrat. “We have been very success- from the state for vital infraful in Nassau County, we have structure projects. “Affordable housing is not the safest county in America — Niche magazine said we’re the an issue by itself,” he said. most desirable place to live,” “You have to have the infraBlakeman said during the disstructure — the sewers, the roads — to support it.” cussion. Cohen noted the substantial Hochul spoke for roughly 30 minutes and used her time as

By JEFFREY BESSEN

jbessen@liherald.com

Courtesy Debbie Marino

Sophie Marino, a goalie on the Long Beach High School varsity hockey team, had no previous skating or hockey experience.

LBHS goalie Sophie Marino conquers a sports stigma By AIDAN WARShAVSKY awarshavsky@liherald.com

You might never know that Sophie Marino knows how to skate, let alone wield a hockey stick, unless you got to know the lone female member of the Long Beach High School hockey team. Marino, 17, a senior and one of the squad’s two goalies, spent all of 2024 learning to skate, because she didn’t know how. She became a regular at the public sessions at the city’s Municipal Ice Arena, and practiced crossovers and T-pushes on synthetic ice in her backyard on West Chester Street. Marino said it took her 10 months to gain

speed on the ice, and the confidence to play. “Being so behind in the sport, learning how to skate and believing in myself was a challenge,” she said. Playing goalie isn’t new to the Marino family. Sophie’s older brother, Matt, 19, a sophomore at Binghamton University, was a goalie for the LBHS team from 2019 to 2023. In the backyard last year, he and his sister worked on puck tracking, angles and “playing the post.” With Sophie in the net, Matt would fire pucks at her. When she wasn’t on the ice, Sophie would watch the high school team’s practices and games, getting a feel for how the sport Continued on page 3

hen Long Island does well, all of New York does well.

Continued on page 3

MLK Day approaches, his lessons endure By CHRIS COLUCCI ccolucci@liherald.com

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is recognized across the country as an opportunity to honor the work of civil rights activist and Baptist minister, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The City of Long Beach will acknowledge the day, Jan. 19, as the Martin Luther King Community Center hosts its annual MLK commemorative march. The march will begin at 11:30 a.m., at the intersection of Laurelton Boulevard and West Park Avenue. Participants will walk nearly one mile until reaching the MLK Center on Riverside Boulevard. For safety, eastbound traffic on West Park Avenue will be stopped for roughly one hour. Immediately following the march, the center will host a ceremony featuring singers, praise dancing, and speakers, including a keynote speech from Rev. Ronald McHenry, a minister from the Evangel Revival Community Church. The MLK Community Center is a longtime hub supporting children and adults with educational resources, activities, and programs. The center has always taken a lead role, year-round, in remembering its namesake through intentions as well as actions. D’Andre Cohen, committee leader for MLK Day 2026 at the MLK Center, explained how they honor King’s groundbreaking civil rights work. “By bringing together people of all backgrounds to work collaboratively and peacefully,” Cohen shared, “we strive to transfor m division into understanding, injustice into opportunity and hope into action.” The national theme for this year’s MLK Day is “Mission Possible 2: Building Community, Uniting a Nation the Nonviolent Way.” It is a direct extension of the 2025 theme: “Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Jus-

Courtesy D’Andre Cohen

Crowds filled the street while walking toward the MLK Center during last year’s MLK Day commemorative march. tice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence 365.” Each year, The King Center chooses a theme for the annual celebration highlighting a core principle of King’s civil rights activism and community work. Ms. Coretta Scott King founded The Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change, more commonly referred to as The King Center, in June 1968, less than three months after the assassination of her husband. In 2012, Bernice King, the youngest of King’s four children, took over as CEO of The King Center. Her older brother, Martin Luther King III, serves as president. In a press release from The King Center, Bernice

King spoke of the relevance of this year’s theme. “There is not a more urgent bell we must answer,” King wrote, “than the one signaling that it is indeed beyond time for us to realize our interconnectedness in what my father called the ‘World House,’ and to learn to live together well.” King is the only individual to be celebrated with a federal holiday without serving as president of the United States. The day of honor, activity, and remembrance is recognized annually on the third Monday of January, a near approximation of his birthday, Jan. 15. This year’s commemoration marks what would’ve been King’s 97th birthday.

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Gymnastics experience was a ‘driving force’

LONG BEACH HERALD — January 15, 2026

Continued froM page 1

flowed. She studied then starting goalie Patrick Riley to learn the position. Head varsity coach Robert Carson said that Marino’s greatest strengths derive from her background as a gymnast, saying it’s a “driving force” in her ability to play goalie. She has been a competitive gymnast since 2017, and is a member of the LBHS varsity gymnastics team. “She doesn’t flinch,” Carson said. “She’s very competitive, has the flexibility to play in net. Her hand-eye coordination is great, and she has great reaction time and speed.” He added that she is always eager to improve, and is a good teammate. “Her attitude is her greatest strength,” Carson said. “Above everything else, she wants the team to win.” This season, which began in November, Marino has played in six games, including her first start on Dec. 19, against Half Hollow Hills. It came as a result of an injury to starting goalie Justin Mele. In Long Beach High’s 6-5 win, Marino recorded 18 saves. Her brother Matt, who was on hand for the game, said she “looked like a real goalie.” He explained that her “butterfly” — when a goalie goes down on her knees as the puck approaches the net — was great, and she has the “angles” of an experienced goalie. “The other team was shocked,” Matt said. “Her own team was shocked. When she started [learning the sport] last year, she looked like she couldn’t skate.” The high school team is looking to

Courtesy Debbie Marino

Courtesy Robert Carson

Marino’s older brother, Matt, helped her learn the position in her junior year of high school. improve on last year’s finish as runnerup in the state championships, after a run that included a Nassau County championship loss to Bellmore-Merrick. This season the squad sits atop the county’s Conference I with a record of 12-2-l. “We’re just looking to improve from last year,” Carson said. Marino’s presence has given the team a boost, after it went through last year with just one goalie — Riley, who graduated last year — which presented a challenge for drilling and practicing. Carson said his players practiced on only one

end of the ice, which prevented them from simulating in-game, full-ice scenarios. “Having Sophie allows for more structure,” Carson explained. “We’re able to use the full ice, and the players get better conditioning.” Despite the pressures of learning the sport and fitting in with her teammates, Carson said she was met with open arms, and they all look at it in a good way. “The way the team has accepted her has been great,” he said. “Everyone’s been very warm.” She has joined

Marino’s mother, debbie, became a hockey fan, and has supported her daughter. in the team rituals of playing music on the bus to hype one another up, and sharing team dinners. “My coaches and teammates are all sweet and amazing,” she said. “Everyone’s really supportive, and getting to be on a team with the players has been extremely rewarding.” As she notes the glances from spectators and other players when she’s on the ice, Marino knows that she’s challenging the stigma that girls can’t compete with boys. That makes her experience all the more enjoyable. “They think we can’t do it,” she said, “when I know that we can.”

Top leaders understand Long Island’s role Continued froM page 1

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,” Cohen said in his opening remarks. “We’ re home to world-renowned tourist destinations, the highestranked 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, uncertainty remains as federal decisions Matt Cohen be gin to impact prog ram President, LIA funding. The state’s large reserve funds will continue to support the economic region through challenges. “My role as comptroller is to remind everybody, at the end of the day, whatever the policy decisions are, we have to look at the implications of our spending choices,” DiNapoli said. “Not just in the short run, for the coming year’s budget, but what will it mean a year,

ong Island has gone from a bedroom community of New York City to our own bustling, diverse, economic powerhouse.

Tim Baker/Herald

Suffolk County executive ed romaine, far 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. 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 — although there has been an uptick in the number of 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 that the overall decline is a result of rising housing costs and a job

market that lacks entry-level positions. Schumer noted that 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,” he said. Additional reporting by Madison Gusler, Carolyn James and Jordan Vallone.

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January 15, 2026 — LONG BEACH HERALD

The Long Beach Fire Department is kickstarting the new year with an influx of new safety and rescue gear. At the Long Beach City Council meeting on Jan. 6, the board approved the purchase nearly $330,000 worth of essential “bunker gear” — the durable jackets, pants and boots worn by firefighters — as well as four brand new defibrillator/monitor units, all headed to the LBFD. 19 sets of gear are expected to arrive at the fire department in four to six months, with 15 protective jackets, 15 protective pants and 15 pairs of fire-rated boots earmarked for volunteer firefighters with the remaining four sets being used by the department’s paid firefighters. “National Fire Protection Association standards dictate that firefighter safety equipment has a 10-year life span from the date of manufacture,” Fire Commissioner Joseph Miller wrote in a statement to the council. “Some items being replaced by this purchase are past that recommend time by a few years and others are damaged and in need of replacement for the safety of the members.” Commissioner Miller said that helmets, while an essential part of a firefighter’s uniform, are stocked in abundance and purchasing additional headgear for the department is not currently necessary. The 19 protective outfits will cost roughly $78,000 and will be paid for by the fire department’s own budget. The four incoming defibrillators/ monitors will be replacing four outdated units — two of which are more than 10 years old and less efficient than the current model, while the remaining two are outdated and no longer serviceable for regular maintenance. First Deputy Commissioner Scott Kemins, who also serves as a registered EMT, discussed the multiple benefits of the new models beyond standard defibrillation. “These are true medical equipment — the same that are used in emergency rooms,” Commissioner Kemins explained. “They monitor blood pressure. They monitor oxygen level in ________________

Long Beach Fire Department/Facebok

Firefighters put their gear to the test every time they arrive to a call. the blood. It does temperature. Like some people have pacemaker’s built into them, this machine is an external pacemaker — with the pads we put on them, we can increase their heart rate to keep them alive until we get them to a hospital.” The total cost of the defibrillators, associated equipment (such as chargers, sensors and arm cuffs) and a four-year maintenance package is just over $251,000, which includes a $20,000 tradein allowance for the four current units, The funds are entirely covered through a grant provided by Nassau County Legislator Patrick Mullaney — a Long Beach resident and FDNY veteran of more than 20 years. All four devices are expected to arrive in two to three months. The defibrillators will be placed in each of the department’s three ambulances, with the remaining machine working in the “advanced life support engine” fire truck. Commissioner Miller said he welcomes any incoming resources, clarifying that most gear used on calls has a functional life of 10 years or less, depending on wear and tear. New equipment is a never-ending need, for the safety of firefighters in the field and to more effectively help the community they serve.

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MAIN PHONE: (516) 569-4000 ■ WEB SITE: www.liherald.com/longbeach ■ E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: lbeditor@liherald.com ■ EDITORIAl DEPARTMENT: Ext. 213 E-mail: lbeditor@liherald.com ■ SUBSCRIPTIONS: Press ”7” E-mail: subscriptions@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4942 ■ ClASSIFIED ADVERTISING: Ext. 286 E-mail: ereynolds@liherald.com Fax: (516) 622-7460 ■ DISPlAY ADVERTISING: Ext. 249 E-mail: rglickman@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4643 ■ PUBlIC NOTICES: Ext. 232 E-mail: legalnotices@liherald.com The long Beach Herald USPS 005231, is published every Thursday by Richner Communications, Inc., 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Periodicals postage paid at Garden City, NY 11530 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster send address changes to Long Beach Herald, 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Newsstand Price: $1. Annual Subscription Rates, $52 per year auto-pay or $65 one-time payment within Nassau County or $76 outside of Nassau County. Copyright © 2026 Richner Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

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HERALD SPORTS Long Beach defeated by Calhoun By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@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.

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After a pair of frustrating two-point defeats, Calhoun couldn’t afford to fall lower in the Nassau League 3 boys’ basketball standings, and sensational sophomore point guard Ashton PierreCharles made sure of it. Pierre-Charles had his NBA-range shooting skills on display Jan. 7, hitting eight shots from behind the arc in a career-high 35-point effort that led the Colts to an important 67-52 victory over visiting Long Beach. “We needed the win and I thought our teamwork was great,” said PierreCharles, who netted 18 points in the first half and 17 in the second, including a beyond halfcourt trey to beat the thirdquarter buzzer for a 50-37 lead. “When we swing the ball around like we did tonight and look for backdoor cuts and find the open man, we’re capable of winning every game,” he added. One of Nassau’s top 10 scorers averaging better than 22 points per game, Pierre-Charles had plenty of help as Calhoun improved to 2-2 in league and 5-6 overall. Senior Amir Ibrahim had 10 points and 10 rebounds, senior Luca Facciponti chipped in 8 points and junior Will Hutchinson 6. “Ashton is going to get his points, but I want to be able to look at boxscores and see more names,” Calhoun head coach Jay Kreutzberger said. “Tonight was a perfect example of what we need from everyone.” Junior Zack Brymer led the Marines with 17 points. Senior Andrew McCartney continued his torrid start with 13, and senior Vance Kanganis and junior Gavin O’Grady had 9 apiece. “Anyone can beat anyone in this league,” head coach Scott Martin said after Long Beach slipped to 2-2 in league and 5-4 overall. “Our kids always play hard and battled back from an early deficit. But there was no stopping No. 1 [Pierre-Charles.] He’s an unbelievable player and if there’s a flaw in his game, I don’t see it.” Pierre-Charles scored the last four

Jeff Wilson/Herald

Junior Zack Brymer’s 17 points led the Marines Jan. 7, but they fell 67-52 at Calhoun in a Nassau League 3 matchup. points of a back-and-forth opening half to give the Colts a 31-27 lead. They led by as many as 11 in the second quarter before Long Beach tied it with a pair of McCartney threes sandwiched between five points from Brymer. “Andrew’s been a nice surprise,” Martin said of McCartney, who scored in double figures for an eighth straight game and averages 15.5 points. “He put the offseason work in and it’s paying off.” Calhoun, which lost to MacArthur, 54-52, Jan. 5 and New Hyde Park, 56-54, Dec. 19, caught fire to start the second half and had the Marines in a 16-point hole midway through the third quarter.

Pierre-Charles opened the second half with a nifty reverse layup and had 7 points during the 16-2 run that included a three from junior Alec Bloch. Long Beach, which has league wins over MacArthur and Jericho, crept back within 10 but never got closer. The last of Pierre-Charles’ points came on an emphatic dunk. “Last September we had 20 kids in the gym for workouts and they all took 200 shots from various distances; he hit 170,” Kreutzberger said of Pier reCharles, who averaged 12 ppg as a freshman. “He’s a special player and a great kid.”

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Five Town officials sworn in for new terms 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.”

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January 15, 2026 — LONG BEACH HERALD

From speed cameras and school menus to housing vouchers, Albany and county leaders passed laws aimed at daily life.

More speed cameras in school zones. A new state law expands the school zone speed camera program on Long Island. Previously limited to certain areas, the updated law lets Nassau and Suffolk counties install cameras near more schools — including private and charter campuses. Fines for speeding violations captured by the cameras will remain at $50, with violations issued only during school hours and when students are present. Local officials say the goal is to improve pedestrian safety near schools.

Cleaner menus in school cafeterias. Public schools across Nassau and Suffolk counties must begin reducing added sugars and processed meats under a new state nutrition law. Starting in the 2026–27 school year, school meals can no longer include foods with

Starting Jan. 1, a new batch of state and county laws went into effect across New York — and some could have a real impact on how Long Island resi-

more than 10 grams of added sugar per serving, and items like bacon and hot dogs must be served no more than once per week. The law will apply to retailers and delivery services operating in Long Beach and throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties.

Lithium battery safety rules for e-bikes, scooters.

As of Jan. 1, all e-bike and scooter batteries sold in New York must meet new fire safety standards. The law, passed in response to a rise in battery fires statewide, requires ULcertified batteries and gives fire marshals more authority to inspect or remove noncompliant models.

County-wide “no wrong door” policy for mental health help.

Nassau and Suffolk counties have each adopted “no wrong door”

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Flavored vape ban takes effect statewide.

The statewide ban on flavored e-cigarettes, originally passed in 2024, fully takes effect in 2026 after court delays. Retailers across New York state will be prohibited from selling vape products in flavors like mint, menthol, fruit or dessert. In another law designed to protect young people, the state passed a law to regulate the sale and labeling of kra-

tom products. No one will be able to sell kratom to anyone under 21 and kratom products will be required to carry clear warning labels and a full list of ingredients under the new mea- sure. According to the Federal Drug Enforcement Administration, kratom, made from the leaves of a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, produces both stimulant effects (in low doses) and sedative effects (in high doses) and can led to psychotic symptoms and psychological dependency.

More to come Other laws set to roll out later in 2026 — including updates to clean energy tax credits, public transit fares and composting requirements — may still be finalized in the coming legislative session. Long Island officials are watching closely to see how state budget negotiations may affect implementation timelines.

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LONG BEACH HERALD — January 15, 2026

2026 laws that could change life on Long Island

January 15, 2026 — LONG BEACH HERALD

State expanding online protection for kids By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

As part of her state-of-the-state proposals, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced legislation to help protect children from online predators, scammers and harmful AI chatbots that are integrated into online platforms. Additionally, Hochul is proposing a first-of-its-kind, statewide expansion of Teen Mental Health First Aid Training, designed to give young people the tools to identify, understand and effectively respond to signs of mental health and substance abuse challenges among their friends and peers. “These proposals will create a nationleading standards that will ensure our kids’ safety in online and real work environments,” Hochul said in a Jan. 5 release. The legislative package to protect kids on online platfor ms includes expanding requirements for platforms to conduct age verification, including online game platforms; making kids’ accounts be set to the highest privacy settings on platforms by default, meaning that non-connections cannot message kids, view their profile or tag them in content; disabling AI chatbot features on social media platforms for kids; and expanding parental controls, meaning that parents must be able to set limits on children’s financial trans-

Darren McGee/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced legislation to help protect children online and to help bolster mental health care for youngsters. actions. The legislative package is sponsored by State Sen. Andrew Gounardes and Assemblymember Nilly Rozic. Common Sense Media founder James Steyer commended the state’s actions. “The online games kids play and the social media platforms they use for hours and hours a day become veritable

hunting groups for predators,” he said. “Kids and teens need these new protections now more than ever.” Julie Scelfo, founder of Mothers Against Media Addiction, called the legislative proposals “common-sense.” “The parents of the MAMA movement are grateful for the governor’s continued national leadership on this issue,

and we look forward to working with her and with the state legislature to enact policies that protect our kids,” she said. The Teen Mental Health First Aid training is being proposed to be available to all 10th-graders in New York, making it available to more than 180,000 students annually. The training is designed for young people between the ages of 15 and 18 so they can identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges in their friends and peers. It will equip them with skills to recognize common signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges; the impact of bullying and school violence on mental health; how to have impactful conversations with classmates about mental health concerns or to seek help from an adult; formal and informal support, and self-care. “In our discussions with young people about mental health issues, one consistent thread became clear — youth reach out to their peers when they are in distress,” New York State Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said. “Teen Mental Health First Aid helps young New Yorkers talk with their classmates and friends about mental health issues and provides them with the know-how to get them help when it is needed.”

LBHS cardboard boat competition afloat The Oceanside High School Robotics Club captured second place at a cardboard boat competition hosted by Long Beach High School on Dec. 22, showcasing teamwork, creativity and engineering skill against neighboring schools. The event brought together robotics clubs from Cold Spring Harbor and Long Beach middle and high schools for a hands-on challenge that required students to design, build and race boats constructed entirely of cardboard and tape. Strict guidelines limited materials and construction methods, pushing teams to rely on problem solving and collaboration. Oceanside’s entry, aptly named “What’s Kraken,” stood out for both its speed and durability. The entire Robotics Club participated in the design and construction process, testing multiple ideas before settling on a final build. The result was the most seaworthy vessel in the competition, surviving four full rounds in the water — more than any other boat. Oceanside students Max Goodman and Faith Gelfond piloted “What’s Kraken” during the races. Robotics Club coach Brandon Crofts also climbed aboard, a requirement of the competition that both added weight and difficulty to the challenge. Despite the added obstacle, the team recorded the second-fasted overall time, finishing just one second behind the firstplace boat. The strong finish provided a timely confidence boost for the club as it prepares to enter its official robotics build season, which begins next week. During the build season, students will design and construct a competition robot for the upcoming regional tournament. The club is advised by Peter Orlando, who works

Courtesy Donna Kraus

Oceanside High School math and computer teacher Brandon Crofts, left, coached OHS students Max Goodman, center, and Faith Gelfond, who both navigated the “What’s Kraken” to a second-place win at the cardboard boat competition on Dec. 22 at Long Beach High School. alongside Crofts to guide students through both the technical and collaborative aspects of the program. The Oceanside High School Robotics Club is scheduled to compete March 19-21 at Hofstra University,

where teams from across the region will put their robots to the test in a high-stakes engineering competition. –Abigail Grieco

10th annual Shabbat service honors MLK

LONG BEACH HERALD — January 15, 2026

There is a religious component, but it’s more about civil rights and justice, and all the principles that America stands When Rabbi Jack Zanerhaft arrived for.” As he expects a broader than usual at Temple Emanu-El of Long Beach in March 2017, he quickly got to work con- audience, many of whom are unlikely versed in Hebrew texts, necting with the community. Zanerhaft will be performOne of his early priorities ing an adjusted prayer serwas establishing a distinct vice with more spoken EngShabbat service, specifically lish and relatively less on the Friday before Martin Hebrew. The Nehemiah ProjLuther King Jr. Day, to recect, an a capella gospel choir, ognize the lasting impact will also perform during the and lessons of the civil service, having sung at last rights leader. year’s MLK Shabbat, as well On Jan. 16, at 7:30 p.m., as singing at temple events Rabbi Zanerhaft will oversee during Black History Month the 10th consecutive MLK in past years. Shabbat service at the temOne notable feature every ple on Neptune Boulevard. JaCk ZaneRHaft year is a reading of King’s The evening service is open renowned “I Have a Dream” and welcoming to any mem- Rabbi, speech, usually recited by a b e r o f t h e c o m m u n i t y Temple Emanu-El guest speaker. This year, to regardless of race, religion, of Long Beach highlight 10 years of honoror orientation. ing King’s philosophy, everyZanerhaft finds parallels between Rev. Dr. King’s role as a Baptist one in attendance will be encouraged to minister and his work at the forefront participate. “We’re going to ask the conof civil rights activism. “There’s so gregation to read it with me responsivemuch of that interrelated — a theologi- ly,” Zanerhaft said of the new plan. “As cal belief that we’re all created in god’s all of us participate in the hopes and image. That we’re all children of the desires embraced in the dream.” The day of celebration will continue same god,” Zanerhaft stated. “That each person has the god-given right to have after the ceremony with an oneg — a dignity, respect, justice and equality. social time after Shabbat services when

By CHRIS COLUCCI

ccolucci@liherald.com

t’s great to talk about building bridges, but we want to walk across them.

Kristie Arden/Herald

Rabbi Zanerhaft has worked to unite the L.B. community since his arrival in 2017. congregants come together informally to share food, drink and relaxed company. Rabbi Zanerhaft explains why the Shabbat Oneg is especially important for the MLK service. “It’s a dessert reception and that’s really part of the

event. It’s great to talk about building bridges, but we want to walk across them,” Zanerhaft said, reinforcing the strong community ties. “So we want to sit and drink and eat with all of our friends, neighbors and allies.”

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January 15, 2026 — LONG BEACH HERALD

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.

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.”

Global fundraiser at L.B. craft brewery awarshavsky@liherald.com

Jessica Hernandez, an Oceanside resident, has always looked for ways to help children in the community. Now, she’s pivoting to children abroad with Pencils of Promise, a nonprofit that supports children in impoverished communities in Guatemala, Laos and Ghana. On Jan. 11, Hernandez helped to coordinate a fundraiser for Pencils of Promise at Barrier Brewing Company’s Long Beach location on East Park Avenue. The partnership with Pencils of Promise actually started last year, when Hernandez ran in the BMW Berlin Marathon. The nonprofit focuses on providing children with safe classrooms, clean water, quality teachers, and school supplies. They also have a WASH program, which implements fresh water systems in the communities for children to practice proper hygiene and ensure a clean infrastructure. Hernandez said that they were very welcoming, and that their message spoke to her. “Collaborating with Pencils of Promise reminded me of my volunteer experience,” she said. “It also tied into my own mission that I do as a job.” Her passion to help people started during her time at Archbishop Molloy High School in Queens. Hernandez would volunteer at adult camps upstate in Esopus, assisting adults with physical and mental disabilities. Hernandez then studied at Quinnipiac University, graduating in 2017 with a master’s degree in Occupational Therapy (OT). During that time, she took a global volunteerism class, where they did fundraising and painted an orphanage in Nicaragua. Since 2019, Hernandez has spent time helping children with disabilities, previously working in the Bos-

Aidan Warshavsky/Herald

Jessica Hernandez has been engaged with helping communities locally and nationally since she was in High School. Now she’s helping kids around the world. ton Public School system, and now at a small outpatient clinic in Williamsburg. Hernandez’s desire to help people is well recognized by her friends — including Amber Emmino. The two

met in Esopus and became friends almost immediately, working on the kitchen crew in 2012, and as counselors the following year. “She was very outgoing,” Emmino said. “Always willing to lend a helping hand.” Emmino and Hernandez attended Quinnipiac, and pursued similar interests in career paths and philanthropic work. They collaborated in their sorority — Chi Omega’s — fundraising efforts, like Make-A-Wish, basketball games, and carnivals. When Emmino took charge of the sorority’s onboarding and management processes for new and returning members, Hernandez was always there to help. “I was never overwhelmed,” Emmino said. “Jessica was always there to help.” The two became neighbors in Boston as postgraduates, and have been friends ever since. The fundraiser attracted dozens of guests for music, food and craft beer. They also had football squares for Sunday’s NFL wild card games. They also had raffle giveaways, with winners taking home prizes like sessions at Club Pilates in Long Beach and gift cards to Oceanside eateries Pizzaiola and Mitchell’s Diner. Hernandez said that the proceeds from the raffles directly support Pencils of Promise and their continued mission to provide children with regular necessities. “Basic resources are really important for children and for lifestyle,” she said, explaining the things many take for granted. “Literally as basic as water and education. It’s an opportunity for kids to get what they need.” Those interested in learning more about the work done by Pencils of Promise can visit their website pencilsofpromise.org.

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.

Herald Community Newspapers and RichnerLIVE today announced Bank of America as the presenting sponsor for its ﬁrst-ever Long Island Business Summit. Taking place Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at the Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury, this high-energy, full-day summit is designed for every entrepreneur, executive, and business builder committed to accelerating growth and unlocking new opportunities across the region.

Why Attend The Long Island Business Summit • Designed to deliver immediate ROI • Access the decision-makers who drive Long Island’s economy • Learn proven growth strategies directly from industry leaders • Discover new funding, hiring, and technology resources • Build partnerships that accelerate sales and expansion • Gain the insights and inspiration to make 2026 your breakout year

Bringing together founders, CEOs, small business owners, high-growth startups, and major corporate leaders, the Long Island Business Summit will deliver actionable strategies to scale smart, build winning teams, innovate faster, and strengthen competitive advantage in a shifting economy. “Entrepreneurs and businesses of all sizes fuel our local economy and help Long Island communities thrive,” said Marc Perez, president, Bank of America Long Island. “As the nation’s largest lender to small businesses, helping businesses grow and succeed is at the core of what we do. In partnership with RichnerLIVE and Herald Community Newspapers, we look forward to bringing our region’s business leaders and innovators together at the inaugural Long Island Business Summit.” The program will feature headline keynote speakers, results-driven workshops, expert-led panels, curated networking, and a business showcase where attendees can discover partnerships, solutions, and resources to power their next stage of growth. Underscoring the signiﬁcance of the Summit, Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP – Attorneys at Law will serve as a Partner Sponsor of the Long Island Business Summit.

“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.”

Registration is open and demand is high. Organizations interested in positioning their brand at the forefront of Long Island’s business landscape are encouraged to secure sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities early. Don’t wait for growth to happen — take it. Join the leaders shaping what’s next for Long Island. For information on registration, sponsorship, or exhibitor opportunities, please contact: Amy Amato, aamato@liherald.com, (917) 559-7002.

For more information, visit “This is the place where business gets done,” said Amy www.richnerlive/li-business-summit. Amato, Executive Director of RichnerLIVE. “If you’re serious Follow us on Twitter/Instagram: @RichnerLive, LinkedIn: about expanding your network, scaling your company, https://www.linkedin.com/company/richnerlive-events/ and staying ahead of the competition, you cannot afford to sit this out. The Long Island Business Summit will give business leaders the tools and connections that lead to real results.”

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LONG BEACH HERALD — January 15, 2026

By AIDAN WARSHAVSKY

January 15, 2026 — LONG BEACH HERALD

things to know ABoUt BLooD DonAtions

January is National Blood Donor Month By CHRIS COLUCCI ccolucci@liherald.com

When many people consider “donating,” they might get rid of old clothes, send a few dollars toward a worthy cause, or maybe spend time at a local event. What not enough people consider is rolling up their sleeves to donate blood. New York state is currently suffering from a blood shortage. Dr. Lawrence Fialkow, divisional medical officer of the American Red Cross pointed out why January is such a critical time. “The start of the year is one of the most challenging times to collect blood,” Fialkow wrote in a statement to the New York Department of Health. “Severe winter weather, seasonal illnesses and post-holiday schedules can disrupt donations.”

You can donate a pint of blood every 56 days

Most adults can donate, with certain exceptions

During a whole blood donation, one pint of blood is drawn from the body, which typically holds 10 to 12 pints. With proper nutrition, the body will replenish its own supply in less than two months. Blood drives offer different procedures, including “power red donations” in which additional blood is drawn, red blood cells are specifically collected, and the remaining fluid is returned. This can be done every 112 days. Donating platelets is the most time-intensive option, taking up to three hours to gradually draw five pints of blood, remove small platelets, and return the unused material. The comprehensive procedure is only done at fully equipped blood centers, not standalone blood drives, but it can be performed every seven days.

“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.

It’s not uncommon to find random signs posted to announce an upcoming blood drive taking place at a local fire departments, schools, and houses of worship. Many locations have drives on a recurring basis, often yearly or semiannually to capitalize on a fast turnaround time for repeat donors. Because agencies are eager to encourage donations, nearly anyone can apply to host a blood drive by directly contacting the American Red Cross or the New York Blood Center and completing the application process. If Long Islanders are unable to find a drive happening near them and can’t find one occurring soon enough, they can locate a nearby blood center to make a walk-in appointment by visiting aabb.org/giveblood.

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.

For the safety of donors and blood recipients, prospective donors must meet certain eligibility requirements before collection can begin. In New York, you must be 17 years old to donate, or 16 with a parent’s permission. Most people must be 120 pounds or heavier, depending on the type of donation being made. In New York, recent tattoos and piercings will create a three-month delay in the opportunity to donate. Pregnant women are ineligible to donate until six weeks post-partum. While blood drives aim to be inclusive and do not bias based on gender or sexual preference, FDA regulations require a three-month deferral depending on specific sexual acts. Detailed guidelines can be found at redcrossblood.org/faq.

Blood drives can pop up almost anywhere

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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*MEET THE 2026 HONOREES* REAL ESTATE AGENT

SPECIAL AWARDS STRATEGIC VISIONARY IN LUXURY REAL ESTATE

Licensed Real Estate Agent Keller Williams Realty

Kelly Killoren Bensimon

REAL ESTATE BROKER

Founder & Owner, Broker Specialist Kelly Killoren Bensimon Inc., Douglas Elliman

Nicholas Sforza

Licensed Real Estate Broker Manhasset Realty Group

RISING STAR

Ashley Infantino

REAL ESTATE EXCELLENCE

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson DeSimone Real Estate Agency

Marisa Filardo

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Douglas Elliman

James La Dolce

Vice President, Branch Manager Flushing Bank

TEAM LEADERSHIP Rachel King

COMMERCIAL CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY

Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker, Team Leader of "The King Team", & Long Island Founding Agent SERHANT

Jonathan M. Stern

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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.

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.

LONG BEACH HERALD — January 15, 2026

Epic moments on ice

January 15, 2026 — LONG BEACH HERALD

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD JAN

Winter Farmers Market

CALENDAR JAN

The market comes indoors for January and February at Bright Eye Beer Co. Come sip and shop your way through the colder months with an incredible lineup of local farmers, makers, food vendors, and small businesses you know and love. Grab a craft beer, stock up on local goodies, and support the community. • Where: 50 W. Park Ave. • Time: 10 a.m-1 p.m., also Jan. 31, Feb. 14 and Feb. 28 • Contact: brighteyebeerco.com or (516) 543-5736

People’s Church Open Mic Night

The People’s Church welcomes all for an evening of raw talent and creative expression! Whether you’re a seasoned performer or stepping on stage for the first time, this is your night to shine. • Where: 111 Delaware Ave. • Time: 7-9 p.m. • Contact: (516) 432-0392

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

JAN

‘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

visitors learn about the important role emotions, memory and imagination play in our everyday lives. Hands-on and digital experiences focus on the five emotions featured in the film: Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust and Fear. Kids learn to recognize emotions and explore ways that we express and manage our own emotions. With opening weekend activities to celebrate the arrival of this traveling exhibit. • Where: Museum Row, Garden City. • Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

JAN

String Instrument Tuning

Bring your child’s string instrument to Long Beach Library’s Youth Services department to have resident librarian/violist Michela tune your instrument and answer any questions you may have about string instrument care. Tuning services are available for violin, viola, and cello only. The individual responsible for the instrument must remain in the room during tuning. Please be advised that Michela will tune instruments at her professional discretion.

• Where: 111 W. Park Ave. • Time: 2 p.m.-4 p.m. • Contact: mchristianson@ longbeachlibrary.org

JAN

Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative March

The Martin Luther King Center, Inc. hosts its annual Commemorative March celebrating Dr. King’s life and legacy, beginning at Laurelton Boulevard and West Park Avenue and concluding at the MLK Center. A ceremony follow sat the Center, honoring his enduring impact. All are welcome to participate in this community event. • Where: Laurelton Boulevard and West Park Avenue • Time: 11:30 a.m. • Contact: longbeachny.gov

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

Where the Map Ends: Parent’s Guide to Navigating New York Special Education

Join Long Beach–based attorney and author Christopher Barnett, Esq. at Long Beach Public Library. He leads a practical and empowering session for parents, caregivers, and educators who want to understand and effectively navigate the complex world of special education in New York. Participants learn not only their legal rights but also the human side of advocacy: how to build collaborative relationships with schools, how to keep records that matter, and how to empower their child to thrive both academically and emotionally. Registration required.

• Where: 111 W. Park Ave. • Contact: longbeachlibrary.org or (516) 432-7201

JAN

Icebreaker 5K

Step into the New Year with a frigid run through Eisenhower Park. Sign up for a full marathon (26.1 miles), a half-marathon (13.1 miles), or a 5k (3 miles). The marathon is a certified course and a Boston Marathon qualifier! The course is a looped course and great for spectating, on park paths with fully closed roads. The course is also fully stocked with water and nutrition stops. Participants get a long-sleeve tech tee and a finisher medal. • Where: Eisenhower Park Field 5 • Time: 5K starts at 9:15 a.m., marathon and half-marathon start at 9:30 a.m. • Contact: Events@EliteFeats.com

City Council Meeting

The Long Beach City Council meets the first and third Tuesday of every month. The public may make comments or ask questions pertaining to specific agenda items at the appropriate time. “Good and Welfare,” an opportunity for the public to speak on any topic pertaining to the City, is held following each regular meeting. Those who wish to speak must sign in prior to the start of the meeting. Sign-ups will be accepted until the Council votes to close the meeting. • Where: 6th Floor, City Hall • Time: 7 p.m. • Contact: (516) 431-1000

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.

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Public Notices

News brief

January 15, 2026 — LONG BEACH HERALD

LLON1 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 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 1:00 p.m., security consisting of 220 shares of SEA BREEZE TOWN HOUSES OWNERS, INC., in the name of TIMOTHY KILGANNON, 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 165 EAST BROADWAY, UNIT 5B, LONG BEACH, NEW YORK 11561, between TIMOTHY KILGANNON as Lessee, and SEA BREEZE TOWN HOUSES OWNERS, INC., 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 the FEDERAL HOME LOAN MORTGAGE CORPORATOIN, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE FREDDIE MAC SEASONED CREDIT RISK TRANSER TRUST, SERIES 2024-2, the “Secured Party”, arising under a Security Agreement dated MAY 9, 2017, executed by and between TIMOTHY KILGANNON and CLIFFCO, INC DBA CLIFFCO MORTGAGE BANKERS 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 157610

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU

LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC., Plaintiff AGAINST MATTHEW CASALE, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered January 3, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 2, 2026 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 781 W Park Ave 105, Long Beach, NY 11561. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the City of Long Beach, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 59 Block 250 Lot 143 Unit 105. Approximate amount of judgment $832,371.58 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #615411/2023. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. Francis X. McQuade, Esq., R eferee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 23-000656 88046 157515

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, THE BOARD OF MANAGERS OF THE LONG BEACH TOWNE HOUSE CONDOMINIUM, Plaintiff, vs. DEBRA INDICK A/K/A DEBRA INDECK, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on November 18, 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 10, 2026 at 3:30 p.m., premises known as 651 Shore Road, Unit 3B a/k/a 202, Long Beach, NY 11561. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the City of Long Beach, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 59,

Block 190 and Lot 255. Approximate amount of judgment is $8,200.26 plus interest and cost together with an undivided .055555 percent interest in the Common Elements. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 609094/2025. Paul L. Meli, Esq., Referee Berkman, Henoch, Peterson, & Peddy, P.C., 400 Garden City Plaza, Suite 320, Garden City, NY 11530, Attorneys for Plaintiff 157724

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: Writing with Dana LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 09/22/2025. NY Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as an agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: Entity Protect Registered Agent Services LLC, 447 Broadway, 2nd Floor - #3000, New York, NY 10013 Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity. 157726 LEGAL NOTICE Notice is hereby given that a Summer Restaurant-Liquor On Premises Liquor License, Application ID NA-0371-25-138274 has been applied for by Sand Castles L.B.N.Y Inc d/b/a Riptides 11561 serving beer, wine, cider and liquor to be sold at retail for on premises consumption in a restaurant for the premises located at 1 Edwards Blvd Long Beach NY 11561 157823 LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, SUCCESSOR TO THE BANK OF NEW YORK, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF THE CIT MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, 2007-1 ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-1, -againstJOANNE RABUFFO, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on December 8, 2025, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, SUCCESSOR TO THE BANK OF NEW YORK, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF THE CIT MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, 2007-1 ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-1 is the Plaintiff and JOANNE RABUFFO, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on February 17, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 37 BLACKHEATH ROAD, LIDO BEACH, NY 11561; and the following tax map identification: 59-65-34. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT LIDO BEACH, IN THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 617656/2022. Lisa S. Poczik, Esq. Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 157827

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS INDEX #618363/2025 Original Filed with Clerk August 26, 2025 Plaintiff Designates Nassau County as the Place of Trial The Basis of Venue is that the subject action is situated Nassau

Stay involved with City Council meetings The Long Beach City Council meets at 7 p.m. on the first and third Tuesday of every month. The next meeting is scheduled for Jan. 20. The public may make comments or ask questions pertaining to specific agenda items at the appropriate time. “Good and Welfare,” an opportunity for the public to speak on any topic pertaining to the City, is held immediately following each regular meeting. Those who wish to speak must sign in prior to the start of the

meeting. Sign-ups will be accepted until the Council votes to close the meeting. Specific agenda items for each meeting are typically available for review on the Friday prior to the meeting, from the office of the city clerk. City council meetings can also be watched via livestream on the City of Long Beach’s official YouTube channel. For more infor mation, contact City Hall by phone at (516) 431-1000 or by emailing info@longbeachny.gov.

Public Notices

County Premises: 545 W Olive Street, Long Beach, NY 11561 PHH MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Plaintiff, -againstNASSAU COUNTY PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF ROGER B. RAUCH AND ROGER B RAUCH’S UNKNOWN HEIRS AT LAW, 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 SAID DEFENDANT WHO MAY BE DECEASED, BY PURCHASE, INHERITANCE, LIEN OR OTHERWISE, ANY RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST IN THE REAL RROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT HEREIN; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; SECRETARY OF HOUSEING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; and JOHN DOE AND JANE DOE #1 through #7, the last seven (7) names being fictitious and unknown to the Plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or parties, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the mortgaged premises described in the Complain, Defendants. TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer,

or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff’s Attorney(s) within 20 days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); the United States of America may appear or answer within 60 day of service hereof; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: The foregoing Summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Jeffrey A. Goodstein, a Justice of the Supreme Court, Nassau County, entered Dec. 24, 2025 and filed with the complaint and other papers in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the amount of $585,000.00 recorded in the office of the clerk of Nassau County on July 11, 2011 in Book M 36181 page 852 covering premises known as 545 West Olive St, Long Beach, NY 11561 a/k/a Section 59, Block 025, Lot 53-55. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR

HOME If you do not respond to this Summons and Complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF PHH MORTGAGE CORPORATIONAND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: U n i o n d a l e, New York October 27, 2025 Respectfully submitted, Pincus & Tarab, Attorneys at Law, PLLC. By: Linda P. Manfredi, Esq. Attorneys for Plaintiff 425 RXR Plaza Uniondale, NY 11556 516-699-8902 #102720 157825

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR STRUCTURED ASSET INVESTMENT LOAN TRUST MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-BNC3, Plaintiff, Against LYDIA LAMOUTH, et al Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and

Sale, duly entered 04/03/2019, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on 1/27/2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 159 E Chester St, Long Beach, New York 11561, 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 City of Long Beach, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 59 Block 108 Lot 65, 66 and 67. The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $477,177.88 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 607220/2017 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. Brian Davis, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573 Dated: 11/19/2025 File Number: 560-2175 CA 157482

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

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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

Want to sell your car, motorcycle or boat? Have we got a deal for you! You can advertise your vehicle in the

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OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $35,360 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250

PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

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LONG BEACH HERALD — January 15, 2026

HERALD

January 15, 2026 — LONG BEACH HERALD

C2 01/15

Homes

HERALD

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

HOME OF THE WEEK

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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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© 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.

C3 01/15

Market Place • •

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

LONG BEACH HERALD — January 15, 2026

HERALD

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January 15, 2026 — LONG BEACH HERALD

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Stuff

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SERVICES

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C4 01/15

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Answers to todAy’s puzzle

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

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.

Protecting our peace of mind, hour to hour

was looking for a sharp stick the other night, because I had promised myself that I would rather poke myself in the eye than watch another DJT pop-up press briefing. This time the president was defending our pop-up war against Venezuela, a military campaign executed flawlessly, except that it might not have been necessary. Might have been another big-time distraction from the slow creep of Epstein files. Might have been an epic waste of people power and RAnDi money. We caught KREiss the wild dog. Now what? Yet there Trump was last weekend, rambling about how we would now “run” Venezuela, and there I was, watching. He ranted and raved until I zapped him with the remote. But, dear readers, don’t we have to be very, very careful? Donald Trump may speak extemporaneously in maddening circles, but we must tune in sometimes. We marginalize him at our own peril. He still has the power, and when jacked

up on irrational impulses, he can bring down the house around us. Or bulldoze the White House East Wing. Or covet the northern slopes of Greenland. We are caught in a vise: let Trump into our lives or protect our sanity and space. In my house, my husband turns on the TV as he walks into or through a room, in the same way that one might turn on an oxygen machine in a dead zone. It’s always there, in the background, too loud, too repetitive, too blathering, too insignificant. I reach for the remote, and then stop. How will I know what the commander in chief is plotting? There is no authoritative voice for the opposition. Walter Cronkite died 16 years ago. So we must thread the needle: Try to find reliable news sources and limit our exposure. This is an urgent priority, lest we slip into complacency, or worse. To get through this fierce winter of freezing weather and cascading political disasters, let’s do our work as citizens. For most of my life, it felt OK to be an observer of the political movements sweeping across the nation, from the

unrest of the ’60s through the Obama years. My political activism has been confined to voting, writing and joining peaceful protests. These times demand more, but what, exactly? We twist in the wind, distressed by the abuses and downright meanness of the Trump administration, yet unable to do anything that feels consequential. Some people I know have turned off TV news and stopped reading the newspapers, hunkering down in their own lives to avoid the stress of watching disturbing events unfold. That, I know, is a very bad idea. We must stay informed, and at the same time, find and hold a balance. We need space in our days for peace in a chaotic world. I invite you to examine your own waking hours and consider how much satisfaction and pleasure you experience in any day, in any week. And what are those joyful moments, and how can you — how can any of us — have more of them? What is the well-spent time before and after work obligations, family duties and monitoring our democracy?

hese times of cascading political disasters demand more, but what, exactly?

The uplifting hours in our days? A simple walk around the block is doable most days. The fresh air blasts away the cobwebs and the brisk wind engages the senses. Going down to the beach, in any weather, lifts the spirit. Time in the kitchen, preparing a warm meal, feels rewarding. Something in the gathering of supplies, the cooking and the eating seems like a perfect daily experience. Connecting with friends and family registers as feel-good time, and I make room for that as often as possible. I do love my work, both my writing and my book groups. Writing, when you’re in the moment, is intense and difficult but fully engaging. And you? Your truly life-affirming moments? And are there enough of them, or are you slipping, as I have been at times, into too much TV news obsession? As creatures gifted with self-reflection (most of us, anyway), we can think about the days of our lives, a diminishing supply of a limited commodity. We can decide for ourselves, each of us, how to spend this treasure. The dead of winter is a good time to live the examined life. Copyright 2026 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.

LONG BEACH HERALD — January 15, 2026

Cardinal Dolan retires, and an era has passed

Herald editorial

Long Beach

January 15, 2026 — LONG BEACH 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 — they belong

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.

opinions

’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

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

LEttERs 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? ANTHONY BRANCATO East Meadow

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

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

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

CoRRECtion The front-page story, “All-Republican City Council will lead Long Beach,” in last week’s issue, incorrectly reported that George Ennis had the third-highest vote total in last November’s election, and will serve a two-year term on the City Council. Tracey Johnson had the third-highest vote total, and will serve for two years. Ennis, whose vote total was second-highest, will have a four-year term.

LONG BEACH HERALD — January 15, 2026

Mets and Yankees fans know plenty about chopped liver

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January 15, 2026 — LONG BEACH HERALD