Long Beach Herald 12-11-2025 by Richner Communications, Inc

HERALD LONG BEACH

Nicholas Knox, who ‘made friends with everyone,’ dies King Center wins federal grant for special tax clinic

By CHRIS ColUCCI ccolucci@liherald.com

Well-known Island Park resident Nicholas Knox died peacefully of natural causes in hospice care on Nov. 26, at age 97.

The United States is home to nearly 3 million nonagenarians — those 90 and older — but this longtime local was an authentic one in a million. Born in Manhattan, Knox enjoyed childhood vacations at a summer residence on Wisconsin Street, in Long Beach, and spent his formative years attending local schools, including the now defunct Magnolia School.

Like many men of his era,

Knox went to work at an early age, starting at 14 in a bowling alley on Edwards Boulevard. He eventually settled into a career as a theater and television stagehand with the Local One union, working from 1947 until his “unofficial” retirement in 1991 — though he continued to stay active until he “officially” retired in 2017.

“He had so much energy,” said Knox’s wife of 73 years, Mary Knox, 94. “Five hours of sleep was plenty. He was a very charismatic person. He made friends with everyone, and could even remember their middle names.”

Knox’s work with stage and

He ’d tell us stories about when Long Beach was only dirt roads

BIll HoUSToN, A.K.A. MR. BIlly Bartender, Shine’s

screen actors ranged from Carnegie Hall and the Winter Garden Theatre to TV programs such as “The Honeymooners.” After decades of working with some of the

By CHRIS ColUCCI

ccolucci@liherald.com

Long Beach’s Martin Luther King Center, now under the leadership of board chair Sheena Curry, has been awarded a grant of nearly $150,000 by the federal government. The money will be earmarked for the creation of a specialized financial clinic that will offer the community free tax planning, preparation and guidance.

Low Income Taxpayer Clinics are a nationwide network recognized by the Internal Revenue Service that provide professional tax assistance at little to no cost. They are intended to help those with limited incomes, and those for whom English is a second language, navigate tax challenges and disputes with the IRS.

LITCs were created in 1974 — the nation’s first clinic was hosted by the Hofstra University Law School — and the program has received federal funding annually since 1998. The MLK Center grant is part of a total of $26 million that will be divided in varying amounts

ContinueD on page 3

entertainment world’s elite, he had plenty of tales to tell, which he did with enthusiasm, often while relaxing at a Long Beach watering hole.

“He told stories about working with Jackie Gleason and Judy Garland,” Bill Houston, a bartender at Shine’s who is known as Mr. Billy, recalled. “Everybody loved him. He’d tell

us stories about when Long Beach was only dirt roads. He was coming to Shine’s since the 1940s. I served him myself for 34 years.”

Whether he was visiting the Knights of Columbus hall, Nolan’s Pub or Shine’s, Knox became more than just a familiar face to many over the years.

ContinueD on page 4

Alice Moreno/Herald

City Manager Dan Creighton and Sheena Curry, MLK Center chairwoman, earlier this year, with another recognition for the center.

Reflecting on Pearl Harbor with VFW

Remembering ‘a day which shall live in infamy’

By AIDAN WARSHAVSKY awarshavsky@liherald.com

For members of the Joint Veterans Organization, the Pearl Harbor Commemoration ceremony is more than a day of awareness – it’s a day of remembrance –especially for members like Robert Condela.

Condela, the Chaplain for Post 1384, began Sunday’s ceremony reminiscing on a previous children’s party that had taken place. Coined “the greatest generations” by many in the past, Condela recognized that the sacrifice of soldiers was to protect the future.

“I was thinking to myself, if it wasn’t for those great men and women back in the ‘40s, we wouldn’t be celebrating Christmas,” he said.

Pearl Harbor day, also recognized as National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, was designated by Congress as a national observance in tribute to those who lost their lives during the attack. 2,403 Americans lost their lives, and 1,178 were injured. It was, as President Roosevelt said in his address to Congress, “a day which shall live in infamy.”

The attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7 1941, which included two waves of attacking aircraft, destroyed numerous aircrafts, and sunk or destroyed eight U.S. battleships – including the USS Arizona. The following day, the United States declared war on Japan, officially entering World War II.

City Council President Brendan Finn, whose father served in the military and was a member of the VFW, spoke of the powerful response from Americans following the attacks. Charlie Finn, Finn’s father, was one of millions who, as Finn said, “stormed in droves” to the recruiting stations.

Finn’s father joined the U.S. Navy a month after the Dec. 7 attacks, and served for nearly the length of World War II.

In 2016, Finn had the opportunity to visit the Pearl Harbor Museum in Honolulu, accompanying the New York Police Department’s Pipes and Drums for the 75th anniversary. As their boat of 100 people sailed over the USS Arizona, he recalled the eeriness and the oil bubbles rising from the water.

“I think it’s almost like an eternal flame, a reminder of the spirit of the men who lived and died on that ship,” Finn said.

State Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, visited in November of 1996 – a visit she said gave her goosebumps.

Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick explained that when her group arrived at the USS Arizona, attendants asked her group of visitors to “conduct themselves with reverence and silence,” as the ship acts as a burial place for those lives lost. It made her think about World War II, and the young men who served.

Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick thanked Post 1384 for hosting the event, highlighting the importance of remembering their sacrifice, as well as the sacrifices of others who serve the country.

“There’s no one to remember them other than us,” she said.

The commemoration began with a presentation of colors. Peggy Costigan, president of the American Legion Auxiliary, sang the national anthem and “God Bless America.” Reverend Steven McClerndon of Long Beach Catholic gave both the invocation and benediction.

John McManus, a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars auxiliary, played hymns dedicated to military service on the bagpipes, including “Amazing Grace” and “Bright Blue Yonder.”

“This is a date that we have to take and remember that those men and women that perished on that day, on that attack that brought us into [World War II], were just like us sitting around,” Condela said. “We honor them today and all the others that passed away in that war.”

Aidan Warshavsky/Herald Robert Condela, chaplain for Post 1384, reflected on the importance of remembering historical events decades later.

Federal grant ushers in free tax assistance

among 140 applicants across the country.

“The IRS awarding this grant speaks to the competency and professionalism of the new leadership at the MLK Center,” Long Beach City Manager Daniel Creighton said. “These services build upon an everincreasing number of programs and resources offered at the center, which is again becoming a tremendous asset to the Long Beach community.”

These services build upon an ever-increasing number of programs and resources offered at the center.

Daniel CreighTon City manager

The center is one of only three locations in Nassau County that will offer this type of volunteer tax consultation, and the only community center — LITCs are typically set up in certified public accountants’ offices. A community center offers a more accessible, and potentially less intimidating, meeting place, with the same credentialed assistance.

“EARN (the Economic Advancement Resources Network) will be one of only a few of the 140 IRS-funded clinics nationwide that is not operated by a law school or a legal services organization,” Explained Christina Curry, co-founder of the financial program organizing the clinic and sister of the board chair.

“Instead, it will be housed within a communitybased organization, something we are especially proud to bring to Long Beach with the support of the city and through the MLK Center.”

The tax clinic is just one of the latest initiatives

It’s official:

and Chiren “Sheena” Curry, chair of the mLK Center and co-founder of earn.

chairwoman Curry has introduced. The center currently offers a food pantry, after-school tutoring for children, social activities for seniors, sports and fitness facilities and a computer lab, as well as a blossoming music and podcast project for interested youths. Now, during tax season, it will help community members prepare their taxes and work to resolve any payment problems they may have, all on a pro bono basis through partnerships with law firms and

CPAs whose employees will volunteer their time.

Curry’s next step, as part of the grant’s requirement, was to attend the annual LITC Grantee Conference in Alexandria, Virginia, which took place this week. At the meeting, grant recipients learn about the best uses of the funding, as well as the regulations and oversight that come with it.

The MLK Center expects to begin offering in-person consultations, and expert tax advice, in February.

Blakeman is planning a run for governor

By JeFFreY BeSSen

jbessen@liherald.com

In a video ad unveiled on his campaign website, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman officially announced his intention to run for governor of New York on Dec. 9.

Blakeman, 70, who was toying with the idea of a gubernatorial run since last year, solidified his ambition for the state’s top elected spot with a 12-point victory over County Legislator Seth Koslow last month.

However, the longtime elected official faces an uphill battle in his own party as upstate Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik’s poll numbers outshine Blakeman’s and the state GOP has said it didn’t want an intra-party battle and strongly backs Stefanik, 41.

Originally from Valley Stream, Blakeman has spent a good deal of his life in politics. His father, Robert, served in the Assembly and Blakeman’s brother Brad, served on the staff of President George W. Bush.

First elected to the Hempstead town board in 1993, two years later Blakeman was elected to serve in the County Legislature’s first class as that lawmaking body replace the Board of Supervisors. He also served as the Legislature’s first presiding officer.

Blakeman, who now lives in Atlantic Beach, was the commissioner of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey from 2001 to 2009, and was appointed to the Hempstead Town Board in 2015. He challenged then County Executive Laura Curran in 2021, and won, and captured another four-year term in November.

In 2014, Blakeman lost to Kathleen Rice to represent

the 4th Congressional District that covers a large swath of Nassau’s South Shore. Four years earlier, he ran unsuccessfully for mayor of New York City and U.S. Senate.

The past few years, Blakeman has strongly supported President Donald Trump and has allowed the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to hold detainees in a portion of the county’s Correctional Center in East Meadow — a first of its kind partnership in the U.S.

“The people of Nassau County want us to cooperate with ICE,” he said during his November victory speech at the Coral House in Baldwin. “They want to get the criminals out of our country.”

Blakeman advocated for the Las Vegas Sands proposed casino project at the Nassau Hub, which fell apart when the Sands dropped out in April. Previously, he told the Herald that alternative development plans are now progressing under a “Plan B” strategy.

His campaign ad highlighted his county executive win in a “Democratic county,” keeping his promises not to raise taxes and maintaining Nassau as “the safest county in America,” and as stated in the ad by the narrator, “locking up thugs.”

“Bruce’s failed statewide electoral record speaks for itself — he has lost every statewide primary and general election over the last three decades in smashing fashion,” Stefanik campaign spokeswoman Bernadette Breslin wrote in a statement. “And after a career of colluding with elected Democrats, Blakeman’s swan song is choosing to prop up Kathy Hochul.”

Courtesy Sheena Curry

Christina Curry, co-founder of economic advancement resources network, far left; Joceline Champagne, director of the irS’s LitC office;

Tim Baker/Herald nassau County executive Bruce Blakeman announced his intention to run for governor of new York on dec. 9.

Reach Local Shoppers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Knox had countless stories from a life well-lived

from page 1

He became a regular and expected part of many residents’ daily lives. On social media, announcements of his death elicited hundreds of comments from friends, neighbors, union brothers and sisters, and even strangers.

But there’s no doubt that this loss to the community had its greatest impact at home. “His recliner is still facing me in the living room,” Mary Knox said. “Things are different now.”

Knox began coming to Long Beach as a youngster.

long beach

Courtesy Johnny Mac

Nicholas Knox, who was 97 when he died, enjoyed sharing stories of decades past.

CoNtiNued

Courtesy Shine’s Bar

Hofstra showing championship potential

By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com

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

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

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

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

The Pride made another statement a week later with an 80-73 win at ACC opponent Pittsburgh

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lifelong Jets fan will ‘Kick for Cash’ Dec. 28

By TONY BELLISSIMO

tbellissimo@liherald.com

A lifelong and diehard New York Jets fan, Ashley Castanio-Gervasi has been to countless games over the years with members of her family, which has owned season tickets dating back to the mid-1960s.

On Dec. 28, the 33-year-old Oceanside High School graduate, East Rockaway resident and Long Beach High School math teacher and girls’ varsity soccer coach will be on the MetLife Stadium field during halftime of the Jets-New England Patriots game with a chance to win $100,000 thanks to Hellmann’s.

At every Jets home game this season, one lucky fan inside the Tailgate Zone is randomly chosen to attempt the Hellmann’s Field Goal Challenge, a 20-yard attempt where winners received a Jets swag bag full of exclusive merchandise, a $100 Visa gift card, and tickets to the home finale where they will have an opportunity to Kick for Cash.

“There’s nothing quite like the opportunity for fans to set foot on the field at MetLife Stadium, line up to attempt a field goal like the pros do, and have the chance to win a $100,000,” said Jeff Fernandez, Jets Senior Vice President of Business Development + Ventures. “We are excited to team up with Hellmann’s to bring this fun activation to our gameday experience.”

Castanio-Gervasi was that lucky fan Oct. 19 and successfully drilled the field goal, qualifying her for the

Kick for Cash. “I’ve played soccer my whole life but I never kicked a football before that day,” said CastanioGervasi, a standout goalkeeper for both Oceanside (2010 graduate) and Stony Brook University (2015 grad.) “My mindset right now is to not practice much at all and just treat it like a soccer ball,” she said. “I’m trying to have

fun with it and think of it as something my dad would be super proud of.”

Ashley attended the Jets-Carolina Panthers game Oct. 19 with more than 80 family members and friends. Each year since her father Frank passed away in 2011, she along with her mother Lorraine and three sisters — Lauren Almonte, Courtney Mercado and Jaclyn Rothschild — have organized a group trip to a Jets game with proceeds going to the Esophegeal Cancer Education Foundation. So far, they’ve raised more than $50,000.

“The Jets have always been a big part of my family,” said Castanio-Gervasi, who as a kid attended Jets youth football camps and training camps at Hofstra University. “Going to games together and tailgating is family time we cherish.”

Ashley and her husband, Matthew, have taken their Jets fandom on the road in recent years as well with trip to see Gang Green in Miami, Buffalo, New England, Chicago, Arizona, Pittsburgh and soon Jacksonville.

But Dec. 28 at MetLife will have a different feel to it with six figures of cash on the table. The distance of the Kick for Cash hasn’t been revealed, but Castanio-Gervasi is expecting it to be longer than 20 yards.

“As an athlete I’ve always performed better under pressure,” she said. “There is such as thing as good nerves. In sports if you’re not nervous for the big moments, you’re not fully invested. I know I’ll be a little nervous, but I can feel it in my bones I’m going to make the kick.”

Courtesy Ashley Castanio-Gervais

Oceanside High School graduate and Long Beach math teacher Ashley Castanio-Gervasi will ‘Kick for Cash’ at MetLife Stadium Dec. 28.

Long Island Opens 24/7 Crisis Center

CN Guidance addresses behavioral health needs with groundbreaking facility.

By: Olivia Sims

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

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

Filling a Critical Gap in Crisis Care

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

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

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

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

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

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

Collaboration in Action

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

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

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

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

13 community-based service providers

local government and state representatives from OMH and OASAS

15 crisis response organizations, including 8 law enforcement departments

5 educational institutions

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

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

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

24/7 Care Tailored to Every Need

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

Rapid assessment and health monitoring

Mental health screening and observation

Peer counseling and recovery support

Medication-assisted treatment for substance use

Aftercare planning and coordination

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

Building a Healthier Future

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

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

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

Community Crisis Center exterior

Hanukkah: the light that changes everything HANUKKAH MESSAGE

What if I told you that Hanukkah has nothing to do with winning a war, religious freedom, or even miracles — and that missing this point may be why so many of us feel spiritually “successful,” yet quietly dimmed?

That statement alone sounds heretical. But stay with me.

The familiar Hanukkah story is comforting: a small band of Jews defeats a mighty empire intent on erasing Judaism. Oil miraculously burns for eight days. Victory, faith, perseverance. Case closed.

Except Chabad teachings, rooted deeply in Kabbalah, tell a far more daring story — one that speaks directly to our moment here in Long Beach, in 2025, when life is busy, comfortable, and quietly thirsty for something more. Here’s the out-of-the-box truth: the Greeks were not trying to destroy the Jewish body; they were trying to numb the Jewish soul.

Ancient Greece admired Jewish ethics and respected Jewish intellect. They even allowed Jewish practice, provided Judaism remained reasonable, aesthetic, and private. What they could not tol-

erate was Judaism’s insistence that holiness penetrate the physical world — that God belongs not only in heaven or study halls, but also in kitchens, boardrooms, streets, and homes.

In other words, the real war of Hanukkah was not against oppression.

It was against assimilation of meaning.

Sound familiar?

We live in a time of unprecedented freedom. No one is banning Jewish life in Long Beach. And yet many Jews feel disconnected — not because Judaism was taken from them, but because it was subtly neutralized.

Judaism without mystery. Spirituality without fire. Identity without urgency.

Which leads to a crucial question: why do we light the menorah after nightfall, when it is already dark?

From a practical standpoint, it makes little sense. If the goal is visibility, light earlier. If the goal is beauty, daylight is better.

abbi E li G oodman

Kabbalah explains that light and darkness are not opposites. Darkness is merely light unexpressed. The solution, then, is not to fight darkness, but to reveal light where it has yet to appear. That teaching transforms everything about Hanukkah.

Chassidic teaching insists on nightfall because Hanukkah is not about reacting to darkness — it is about redefining it.

The menorah does not say, “escape the world to be holy.” It declares, “enter the world and elevate it.”

One candle proclaims that even a small act matters.

Two candles insist that progress continues.

Eight candles reveal that light knows no limit.

And the menorah belongs at the window, facing outward.

Judaism, according to Chabad philosophy, is not a private refuge for the already inspired. It is a public responsibility to illuminate shared space. That is why a candle lit by one child can alter the spiritual climate of an entire city.

This is also why the holiest oil — the purest oil — was found hidden, sealed, and overlooked.

Because the purest parts of us are often buried beneath busyness, fatigue, and routine.

Hanukkah insists: your oil is still intact.

And that may be its most radical message.

You do not need to become someone else to access deeper spirituality. You do not need to withdraw from modern life. You need ignition.

That is why Chabad meets Jews not only in synagogues, but also in streets, homes, workplaces, and public squares, saying: You are already enough. Light begins now.

So this Hanukkah the question is not, “How Jewish am I?” It is, “How much light am I releasing into the world?”

Light boldly. Light publicly.

Light relentlessly.

And discover how much of the darkness was waiting for you all along.

Rabbi Eli Goodman leads the Chabad of the Beaches in Long Beach.

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Christmas tree shines in Kennedy Plaza

The Christmas season kicked off in bright style with the Kennedy Plaza tree lighting on Dec. 5. The Long Beach High School Jazz Ensemble played holiday favorites while the honor of lighting the tree itself fell to the winner of “Nominate Someone Great,” Heather Puckhaber, a second grade teacher at Lindell Elementary School.

Santa made a spectacular appearance, hitching a ride from the Long Beach Fire Department. Visitors had a chance to support the City of Long Beach annual Toys for Tots drive by bringing new, unwrapped toys for donation.

After the sky was lit with holiday lights, refreshments and snacks including hot cocoa, warm cookies, and candy canes. Attending children were invited to add their own ornaments to the tree before sending letters to Santa.

–Chris Colucci

Skye Margies/Herald photos

Long Beach Auxiliary Police and the nominated “Someone Great” Heather Puckhaber, second grade teacher at Lindell Elementary School.

Handmade ornaments and more than 35,000 lights brought holiday spirit.

Family and friends came out to enjoy the event. Left to Right: Michael Zorn, Samantha Kern, Abigael McChesney, Maris Zorn, Kristin McChesney, and Jody Zorn.

Santa with 8-year-olds Stevie-Lynn Schnepf, Marin Bennett, and Katelyn Brown.

Tyler and Alicia Radford with 2-year-old Aaron and 4-year-old Amaia.

HANUKKAH MESSAGE

Menorah symbol shines as ancient message endures

It’s not the Star of David. The oldest symbol associated with the Jewish people is the Menorah, as described in Exodus chapter 25. The lamp stand was a prominent fixture that stood In Solomon’s Temple in Jerusalem, as well as in the Second Temple, which was sacked by the Roman Empire in the first century.

A depiction of the soldiers carrying away the Menorah is forever etched in the famous Arch of Titus located on the Via Sacra in Italy’s capital, near the Forum and Colosseum.

Hanukkah, the holiday that begins on sundown Sunday Dec. 14, commemorates the anniversary of the victory of the Israelites over the Seleucid Empire in 164 BCE, when after nearly 80 years, the Temple was recaptured, reopened and rededicated as the national house of worship of the Jewish people.

example, the seven candles represent the seven days of creation, and how according to Genesis the world began with the Creator uttering the words, “Let there be light.”

Some say its form was meant to suggest a tree — hence branches and a trunk, to call to mind the Tree of Life and the origin story of the Garden of Eden. Others claim its shape was inspired by a local plant found in the immediate area commonly called the Jerusalem Sage or by its botanical name the Salvia hierosolymitana. However, a commentary by the Kabbalists about the design of the Menorah truly resonates for today’s times.

The milestone moment was marked by the lighting of the Menorah, symbolizing the nation’s sovereignty being restored. Therefore, from then on Menorahs have been lit as part of the celebration and the holiday is referred to as the Festival of Lights. While there are many beautiful lessons about liberation, and dispelling darkness inherent in Hanukkah, the physical aspects of the holy candelabra also teaches us a valuable message.

Three branches emanate from each side of the central trunk of the ritual object holding a cup and wick for a flame, for a total of six, with a seventh placed atop of the centerpiece. All of it stemming from a base that allows it to stand firmly.

Naturally, a myriad of explanations over the millennia have been developed to explain the look of the Menorah. For

The mystics noted that the branches stand for all the various religions and peoples around the entire planet. Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, folk beliefs throughout China and other regions, and even non-believers. All souls are reflected, as they see the radiance of the flames as a metaphor for the light within each person. And the Menorah demonstrates how we are separate yet produce light together. But most importantly they pointed to the base. For without something to unite us we are not connected and like the Menorah with no base, it falls. The base of the candelabrum provides visual evidence that every person is bound by the desire for freedom, justice, equality, dignity, independence, and peace.

It’s the basis of humanity and exactly what Hanukkah is truly about. As we look around at all the conflict in every corner, we realize the world needs Hanukkah to be celebrated this way, now.

Zanerhaft leads Temple Emanu-El of the South Shore in Long Beach.

NEwS brIEf

Student collects for Long Island Reach

By contributing to this year’s initiative, Farrell helped extend the nonprofit’s mission while spreading the spirit of gratitude and kindness to families across Oceanside. — Abigail Grieco

A sixth grader at Oceanside’s Fulton Avenue School No. 8 helped ensure dozens of local families had a brighter Thanksgiving through a student-led food drive benefitting Long Island Reach in Long Beach, a human-services agency that supports thousands of children and families across the South Shore. Finnleigh Farrell, a longtime volunteer with the nonprofit, helped collect and organize donations alongside advisor Ms. Cleary and members of the school’s Kiwanis Kids Club. Their efforts provided bags of food for more than 35 families in need ahead of the holidays, school officials said. Farrell has spent the past three years volunteering with Long Island Reach, assisting with backpack drives, toy drives and Thanksgiving collections. The organization offers therapeutic services, mental health counseling, drug and alcohol treatment and other support for children and families, including bilingual services.

Rabbi Jack ZaneRhaft

Cradle of Aviation welcomes Katie Ledecky

Olympic swimming legend, a multi-gold medalist, is now a Catholic Health wellness ambassador

By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information on Catholic Health, visit CatholicHealthLI.org

Alyssa R. Griffin/Herald

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

Long Island’s Top Chiefs honored for leadership

By ABIGAIL GRIECO agrieco@liherald.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“We’re really piggybacking off that

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ronald Fatoullah, Esq., CELA,

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

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

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

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

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

President, Sean Acosta, Property Tax Reduction Consultants.

Chief Executive Officer, Billy Haugland II, Haugland Group.

President & CEO, Katherine Fritz, Long Island Cares.

Special volunteer from Guide Dogs Foundation and American VetDogs.

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

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

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

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

President & CEO, Anne Brigis from YMCA Long Island.

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

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

On many days there are multiple shows per

1

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

2

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

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

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

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

Five things to know:

3

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

4

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

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

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

STEPPING OUT

Baking up holiday cheer

‘Tis the season munch on a cookie

By Karen Bloom

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

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

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

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

Peppermint Mocha Chip Cookies

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

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

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

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

• 3 teaspoons instant coffee

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract

• 3 large eggs

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose ﬂour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 12 soft peppermint candies, crushed

Preheat oven to 375° F. Grease or line baking sheet with parchment paper.

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

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

Elon Gold

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

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

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

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

Hanukkah Sugar Cookies

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

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup butter, softened

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 tsp. vanilla

• 2 cups ﬂour

• Colored sugar or decorating icings

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

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

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

Melted Snowman

These cookies are cute tasty holiday treat.

• 3/4 cup butter, softened

• 3/4 cup white sugar

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 egg

• 1 tablespoon milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups all-purpose ﬂour

Decorations:

• 12 large marshmallows

• 3 cups confectioners’ sugar

• 1/4 cup water

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

• 1 drop red food coloring, or as desired

• 1 drop yellow food coloring, or as desired

Preheat oven to 350 F.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

‘A Celtic Christmas’

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

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

Peppermint Mocha Chip Cookies Hanukkah Sugar Cookies

Melted Snowman

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CALENDAR

DEC

11

LuminoCity Festival

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

• Where: Eisenhower Park, East Meadow

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

• Contact: luminocityfestival.com

Long Beach Soup Kitchen Juice Box Drive

Support the Long Beach Soup Kitchen by contributing to their 3rd Annual Juice Box Drive, helping meet the growing need for hundreds of meals served each week. All are encouraged to drop off juice box donations at the library’s Circulation Desk or arrange a pickup if needed. It’s a simple but meaningful way to give back this season.

• Where: 111 West Park Ave., Long Beach

• Time: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., through Dec. 21

• Contact: (516) 432-7201

Comedy Night!

Get ready for a night of big laughs at Speakeasy Long Beach as seven top New York comedians take the stage. Expect sharp jokes, great energy and a lively atmosphere that guarantees a memorable evening. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy some toptier stand-up comedy.

• Where: 1032 West Beech St.

• Time: 7-8:30 pm.

• Contact: speakeasylb.com

‘Home for the Holidays’ Pet Adoption

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

• Where: 3320 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh

• Time: Ongoing, through Jan. 4.

• Contact: (516) 785-5220

DEC

‘Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive

The Bus! The Musical’ Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes back this delightful production, based on Mo Willems’ awardwinning “Pigeon” picture books. Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! is even more fun than staying up late and having a hot dog party. It’s not easy being the

‘Rockin’ the Holidays’ with The Rascals

Grand Menorah Lighting 2025

The Beaches Jewish Community and the City of Long Beach host the annual Menorah Lighting in Kennedy Plaza, featuring the Great Chocolate Gelt Drop, hot potato latkes, jelly donuts and coffee. This festive celebration brings warmth, light and community spirit to the heart of Long Beach.

• Where: 1 W. Chester St.

• Time: 6 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 574-3905

Hockey clinic

If you’re already humming holiday tunes and craving a little rock ‘n’ roll spirit, here’s your chance to celebrate in timeless style. Rockin’ the Holidays brings The Rascals back to the stage — joined by special guests John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band — for a concert packed with energy, nostalgia and chart-topping hits. Two of The Rascals’ founding members, Felix Cavaliere and Gene Cornish, reunite for this festive performance, fueled by a deep love for their fans and the enduring power of their music. With accolades that include induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Grammy Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, The Rascals remain icons of American rock and the defining sound of 1960s blue-eyed soul. Their legacy shines through 17 Top 20 hits, seven Top 10 singles and three No. 1 classics — among them “Groovin’,” “People Got to Be Free” and “Good Lovin’.” Audiences can expect all the favorites, plus holiday flair and the warm, soulful harmonies that made The Rascals unforgettable. “We’re so grateful for the fans — this is for them,” Cavaliere shares. Cornish echoes the sentiment: “This gives us another chance to play together and do it for the fans.” A night of feel-good music, memories and holiday cheer awaits — the perfect way to rock your way into the season.

Pigeon — you never get to do anything. But when the Bus Driver has a crisis that threatens to make her passengers (gasp!) late, maybe that wily bird can do something. Featuring an innovative mix of songs, and feathers, this show is sure to get everyone’s wings flapping. $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

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

• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

DEC

Electric Light Parade

The Annual Electric Light Parade brings dazzling holiday magic to Long Beach’s West End, featuring illuminated floats, antique cars, fire trucks and bicycles along West Beech Street. Festivities include awards for the most festive displays, restaurant specials and kids’ activities following the parade. Parking and shuttle service are available for easy access to this cherished community celebration.

• Where: Ohio Avenue and Beech Street

• Time: 6 p.m.

• Contact: longbeachny.gov

Cardio and Liveball

Boost your fitness and sharpen your tennis skills with an energizing Cardio and Liveball session hosted by CourtSide Theory at the Long Beach Tennis Center. This high-energy workout blends fast-paced cardio drills with exciting liveball play, perfect for players of all levels looking for a fun way to stay active. Expect a lively, upbeat atmosphere and plenty of movement on the court.

• Where: 899. Monroe Blvd.

• Time: 1-3 p.m.

• Contact: longbeachtenniscenter.com

Holiday fun at Westbury House

Step into the magic of Christmas at Old Westbury Gardens’ Westbury House! Bring the kids a festive night filled with holiday fun! Explore, through a self-guided tour, the beautifully decorated mansion with a special Christmas scavenger hunt. Get creative at Christmas craft stations, making holiday keepsakes to take home. Meet Santa Claus himself, share your wish list and snap a photo to capture the moment. Enjoy

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

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: livenation.com

delicious cookies and cider in our West Porch. The party features Lucky Duck Puppets’ holiday show, at 7 p.m.The Winter Holiday Puppet Show is an original story about Greg, a North Pole penguin trying to find his place in the world and how he can help spread holiday cheer! $25, $22 ages 3-12 (20% member discount. Advance registration required.

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: 6-8 p.m.

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

DEC

Magical Afternoon

Enjoy a magical afternoon hosted by the Long Beach Historical & Preservation Society. Magician Gene Silvers brings wonder and excitement to audiences of all ages. Take in dazzling tricks, lively entertainment and a fun community atmosphere. Perfect for families and anyone who loves a bit of enchantment.

• Where: 226 West Penn St.

• Time: 2-4 p.m.

• Contact: longbeachhistoricalsociety.org

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

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

DEC

Monthly Mommy Mixer

Relax with a cup of coffee and connect with fellow caregivers Long Beach Public Library’s Monthly Mommy Mixer, a welcoming space for parents and little ones under 18 months. Enjoy friendly conversation, baby playtime and a special postpartum wellness session featuring tips and resources from an occupational therapy professiona.

• Where: 111 West Park Ave.

• Time: 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

• Contact: longbeachlibrary.org

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.

December 11, 2025 —

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY

COMPANY. NAME: Nightcap Stories, LLC. Art. of Org. were filed with the SSNY on 11/9/25. NY Office location: Nassau County. SSNY is designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: 21 Arizona Ave, Apt 204, Long Beach, NY. Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity. 156910

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU NEW YORK BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

CORPORATION d/b/a PURSUIT BDC, Plaintiff, against -

MICHAEL D’ANTONI

a/k/a MICHAEL E. D’ANTONI, VERSA-TEL TS, INC., EMPIRE STATE CERTIFIED DEVELOPMENT

CORPORATION d/b/a PURSUIT CDC, U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION, NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE, MONTANA DATACOM INC., NYBDC LOCAL

DEVELOPMENT

CORPORATION d/b/a THE EXCELSIOR GROWTH FUND, TBF FINANCIAL, LLC, AMERICAN EXPRESS NATIONAL BANK, CHILLAX LLC, CADLEROCK JOINT VENTURE, L.P., PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY, INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, and “JOHN OR JANE DOE” (such designation intending to refer to any and all other individuals occupying the subject premises and/or claiming any interest whatsoever in such premises), Defendants.

SECOND AMENDED NOTICE OF SALE

Index No.: 609011-2024

Public Notices Public

Property Addresses: 30 Delaware Ave. Long Beach, New York

Honorable Thomas Rademaker

Pursuant to Order

Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated February 5, 2025 and entered in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office of February 18, 2025 (the “Judgment”), I, the undersigned Referee,

duly appointed in this action for such purpose, will expose for sale and sell at public auction to the highest bidder on the north side steps, Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, New York, on January 8, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., the mortgaged premises located at 30 Delaware Avenue, Long Beach, New York (Sec. 59 Block 260 Lot 13) (“Property”), as directed in and by said Judgment.

Approximate amount of the Judgment is $80,670.12 plus postjudgment interest and costs. Please take notice that the Property is subject to a prior mortgage of record now held by CitiMortgage, Inc. in the original principal amount of $360,000.00 (Nassau County Clerk Liber 37176 Mp 100; Assignment at Liber 42896 Mp 855). Interested parties may contact Meghan Breen, Esq. at 518-581-8800.

Dated: November 25, 2025 /s/Ronald J. Ferraro

Ronald J. Ferraro, Esq. 157108

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: EAST COAST SPIRITS

LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 08/06/2025. 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: 180 HUNNEWELL AVE ELMONT, NY 11003 Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity. 157092

LEGAL NOTICE Notice to Bidders PUBLIC NOTICE: is hereby given for separate sealed bids for 2024-2025 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM- Phase 3 SED No.

28-03-00-01-001-047 LIDO COMPLEX

28-03-00-01-005-036LINDELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Bids will be received by the LONG BEACH PUBLIC SCHOOLS, on JANUARY 8, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. in the District Administrative Offices located at 235 Lido Blvd, Lido Beach, 11561, at which time

and place where all bids received will be publicly opened and read aloud. The work shall be as follows:

Contract No. 1 –GENERAL CONSTRUCTION

Contract No. 2ELECTRICAL RECONSTRUCTION

Complete digital sets of the Contract documents may be obtained online (with a free user account) as a download for a nonrefundable fee of One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) at the following website www.jagplanroom.com under ‘public projects’ beginning on December 11, 2025. Optionally, in lieu of digital copies, hard copies may be obtained directly from Island Digital Reprographics, 200 Broadhollow Road, Suite One, Farmingdale, New York 11735 (631-753-3000) upon a deposit of Fifty ($50.00) Dollars for each complete set. Checks for deposits shall be made payable to LONG BEACH PUBLIC SCHOOLS. All Bid Addenda will be transmitted to registered plan holders via email and will be available at the above referenced website.

Plan holders who have obtained hard copies of the bid documents will need to make the determination if hard copies of the addenda are required for their use. Any bidder requiring documents to be shipped shall make arrangements with the printer and pay for all packaging and shipping costs. The bid deposit for hard copies will be returned upon receipt of plans and specifications, in good condition, within 30 days after bid date, except for the lowest responsible bidder, whose check will be forfeited upon the award of the contract. Bids must be made on the standard proposal form in the manner designated by the Instructions to Bidders. Bids must be sealed in an opaque envelope clearly marked with name and address of Bidder, contract name and number, opening date for bids, and addressed to the LONG BEACH PUBLIC SCHOOLS. Bids received after the time stated in this Notice will not be considered and will be returned unopened to bidder. Each Bidder must

deposit, with their sealed bid, security in an amount not less than 10% of the base bid and all Alternate Bids in the proper form subject to the conditions set forth in the Instructions to Bidders (Section 8). All certified checks or bid bonds must be paid to LONG BEACH PUBLIC SCHOOLS.

The Contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder or the proposals will be rejected within 45 days of the date of opening proposals. Bids shall be subject, however, to the discretionary right reserved by the School District to waive any informalities in, accept or reject any alternatives, reject any proposals and to advertise for new proposals, if in its opinion, the best interest of the School District will thereby be promoted. Bidder may not withdraw its bid until 45 days after the bid opening, except in accordance with General Municipal Law § 103(11).

By Order of: Board of Education LONG BEACH PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Susannah Familietti District Clerk 157268

LEGAL NOTICE

Long Beach City School District

Notice to Bidders

The Board of Education of the Long Beach City School District, Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York, 11561 in accordance with section #103 of Article 5A of the General Municipal Law, hereby invites submission of sealed bids for: Bid # 409-2026

Graduation Outdoor Tent & Supply Rental

Sealed bids will be received until 11:00am, Thursday January 15, 2026, at the office of the Board of Education, Administration Building, 235 Lido Blvd, Lido Beach NY 11561, at which time they will be publicly opened and read. Bid and copies of the general conditions may be obtained at the Board of Education address above or requested by email from Athletic Director Arnold Epstein aepstein@lbeach.org or Purchasing Agent Ellen Stewart estewart@lbeach.org. The Board of Education reserves the right to reject any, and all bids

‘Someone Great’ finalists light up Kennedy Plaza

By AIDAN WARSHAVSKY awarshavsky@liherald.com

The Long Beach community found warmth in sub-freezing temperatures as hundreds of spectators gathered in Kennedy Plaza for the annual tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 5.

This year’s spectacle recognized the Long Beach Auxiliary Police Department and Heather Puckhaber, highlighting their impacts on the community and celebrating them as winners of this year’s “Someone Great” award.

The Long Beach Auxiliary Police, referred to by Parks and Recreation Commissioner Joe Brand as the “eyes and ears of the city,” volunteer countless hours to ensure the safety of residents. The volunteer department is responsible for assisting in functions like closing parks and town centers at night, as well as ensuring parades and city events run smoothly.

“We’re extremely grateful for all that they do and all the time that they give to our city,” Brand said of their sevendays-a-week commitment. “They do it for the love of this city and for the safety of our residents. I’m delighted to honor them tonight.”

Puckhaber, a second-grade teacher at Lindell Elementary, is “the kind of teacher you hope your child gets once in their lifetime.” With over two decades of experience at Lindell, Puckhaber is well-respected by parents for her warmth, patience and commitment to helping every child “feel seen.”

“She’s a true staple of our Long Beach Community, known for her generosity and spirit,” Brand said. “Her compassion and the lasting connection she builds with families throughout the years. She lights up children’s lives every day, and is most deserving to help us light up the city for the holidays.”

The Someone Great recipients assisted officials in lighting the tree, and their names were displayed on the tree ornaments – which include the other Someone Great nominations. Also included on the tree were seashells, which children decorated under the direction of The Long Beach Council for the Arts.

or to award bids on a total award or item by item basis, whichever, in the opinion of the Board of Education, will be in the best interest of the School District.

Board of Education

Long Beach City School District Long Beach, New York 11561

Susannah Familetti, District Clerk 157194

This year’s tree lighting featured hot chocolate, and an appearance from Santa – who was escorted by the city’s Fire Department.

Kennedy Plaza welcomed appearances from City Council President Brendan Finn, Vice President Chris Fiumara, Councilman Mike Reinhart, City Manager Dan Creighton, Nassau County Legislator Patrick Mullaney, New York State Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, and Nassau County Comptroller Elaine Phillips.

The city gave thanks to its presenting sponsor, FourLeaf Federal Credit Union. They also thanked Long Beach Nursing and Rehab Center, Mount Sinai South Nassau, Skudin Surf, Stop and Shop, Sweet Street, Toast Coffee and Kitchen, and West End Dunkin.

As the crowd counted down, over 35,000 fluorescent lights applied by City Maintenance Department worker Walter Janus, illuminated the plaza – kicking off the holiday season.

“The Christmas season is a time of good cheer and love,” Finn said. “loving your neighbor, loving your family, loving everybody, that’s what it’s all about.”

LEGAL NOTICE Notice is hereby given that a license, number NA-0240-25-116468 for wine, beer, & cider has been applied for by Delilah G Corporation, DBA Fresco Creperie & Cafe Long Beach to sell at retail in a restaurant, under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 150A East Park Avenue Long Beach NY 11561 for on premises

Sky Margies/Herald Paul Pettas and daughter Lucy, 2, by the Christmas tree in Kennedy Plaza.

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BOOKKEEPER/ OFFICE MANAGER

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EDITOR/REPORTER

OUTSIDE SALES

Help Wanted

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE

Full Time/Part Time

Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multi-task, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $16.50 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

Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com

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

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Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $34,320 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $34,320 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours

Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off.

Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250

PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS

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

Can we add a garage now, and get the

permits later?

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

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

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

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

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

Monte Leeper, architect.

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opinions

Thank you for the honor of serving the 5th District

Thank you. I cannot say it enough.

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

I joined the Legislature at a challenging time for Democrats. We were the last line of defense against a Republican supermajority and absolute one-party rule in Nassau.

For two years we fought for our constituents. We fought to get our communities the resources from the county that they not only deserve but pay for with their tax dollars. Under the leadership of Minority Leader Delia DeRiggiWhitton, we proudly stood shoulder to shoulder and delivered.

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

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

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

focused on the health and safety of our community members.

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

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

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

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

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

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

representing the 5th District is directly related to the support, advice and guidance I received from my fellow legislators. Thanks to each of you. My term ends on Dec. 31, but my work will continue until then. I will use every moment to help our community. I’m happy to announce that we will host a winter coat drive in partnership with the Freeport-Merrick Rotary Club. If you have new or gently used winter coats and accessories, please drop them off during business hours at the Freeport, North Bellmore or North Merrick libraries, or Freeport-Merrick Rotary Club headquarters, at 294 W. Merrick Road, Suite 12, in Freeport. The drive ends on Dec. 14.

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

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

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

Those who ignore James Carville face oblivion

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. Comments about this column? jkremer@ liherald.com.

seTh i. koslow

HERALD

Act now to restore order, safety to e-mobility

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Long Island is done being treated like a piggy bank

igrew up in Franklin Square, and the suburban way of life isn’t just something I prefer. It’s the way of life that makes sense for families who want safe streets, good schools, backyards and the freedom to live without being crushed by taxes or strangled by government overreach.

As County Executive Bruce Blakeman always says, Nassau is the safest county in America thanks to his leadership, Police Commissioner Pat Ryder, and our outstanding police officers and first responders.

Every day I hear from constituents who are frustrated about what is happening to our communities. This morning someone asked if we could deploy speed cameras in Atlantic Beach. I politely answered, “Absolutely not.” The last thing we need is more of the New York City “ticket to oblivion” mentality creeping into Nassau County. Imagine crawling along at 25 mph amid a maze of speed cameras. I’m one of the slowest drivers you’ll ever meet, but even I wouldn’t tolerate that nonsense.

People are leaving New York City and

bringing the very policies they fled to our suburban communities. Albany’s liberal Democrats are helping that shift, piling on tax after tax, mandate after mandate and restriction after restriction, as if Long Island existed solely to bankroll everyone else.

The numbers tell the story. Long Island sends far more money to Albany and Washington than we get back. Independent research from the Long Island Regional Planning Council shows the imbalance clearly: Nassau and Suffolk contribute billions more in taxes than they recover in state spending. Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester and the city supply the majority of New York’s income tax revenue, yet Long Island receives only a small fraction of that support.

we contribute billions more in taxes than we recover in state spending.

Residents feel the consequences every day. The state expanded programs such as the Child Tax Credit and inflation-relief rebates, which sound beneficial on paper, but don’t begin to offset the financial burden placed on Long Island families by taxes, tolls, fees, energy costs, mandates and housing policies.

but it runs east-west. A resident of Cedarhurst who wants to go to Glen Cove can’t do so directly by train. Traveling north requires going to Jamaica, transferring and hoping the schedule aligns.

That explains why our roads deteriorate and our infrastructure lags behind. To Albany, Long Island is a donor region rather than a destination for investment. This year’s numbers make that even clearer: Long Island is set to receive only 7.8 percent of the state transportation budget, a collapse from the 23 percent we’ve historically received. Nassau and Suffolk lead the state in licensed drivers, registered vehicles and lane mileage, yet our region continues to be shortchanged.

Framework by Tim Baker

Albany’s war on energy choice is especially troubling. The push to force future homes to rely on electric heating — Gov. Kathy Hochul’s All-Electric Buildings Act — is misguided and dangerous. My children are grown and out of the house with their own families, and even with careful conservation, my electric bill is high. Requiring every Long Island home to convert to electricity during the winter — in one of the most expensive energy markets in the country — would be disastrous. The courts halted the mandate for now. If it ever advances, the construction industry will suffer, home prices will skyrocket, and families already struggling to remain here will feel even greater strain.

Transportation presents similar issues. Long Islanders rely on cars because we don’t have a subway system. The Long Island Rail Road is valuable,

Albany’s policies ignore these realities, and seem designed to force suburban residents into a lifestyle that resembles Manhattan rather than Nassau or Suffolk. Add congestion pricing on top of that, and it’s clear that state leaders don’t understand us or don’t care.

New York state operates with a citycentric mindset. The city continues to struggle with corruption, crime, mismanagement and failed progressive policies similar to those that have harmed cities such as Chicago, Baltimore and San Francisco. Long Island is treated as an afterthought or, worse, a checkbook. Enough is enough.

Long Islanders are hardworking, taxpaying residents who simply want fairness. We don’t seek handouts, gimmicks or ideological experiments; we seek equity. If we are expected to carry the financial load for the state, then we deserve our fair share in return.

I stand with the families who want to protect their homes, their cars, their energy choices and our suburban way of life. Albany has forgotten who pays the bills. It’s time for us to remind them.

Ari Brown represents the 20th Assemblyman District.

ari brown

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