D i s c o v e r L o n g I s l a n d i s t h e re g i o n ' s o ffi c i a l a n d a c c re d i t e d
d e s t i n a t i o n m a r k e t i n g o rg a n i z a t i o n , a n d t h e p re m i e r p a r t n e r
f o r h e l p i n g L o n g I s l a n d b u s i n e s s e s t h r i v e ! L e a r n h o w D i s c o v e r
L o n g I s l a n d c a n h e l p y o u r b u s i n e s s g ro w. C o n t a c t A n g e l i c a a t
a m i c e l i @ d i s c o v e r l o n g i s l a n d . c o m f o r m o re i n f o r m a t i o n .
D i s c o v e r L o n g I s l a n d . c o m
Dr. Bekelis is a board certified fellowship trained neurosur geon with subspecialty training in minimally invasive endovascular neurosurgery. As one of the most prominent, widely published stroke researchers in the country, with several national and international awards, Dr. Bekelis is the Chairman of Neurointerventional Services for Catholic Health, the Director of the state-of-the-art Stroke and Brain Aneurysm Center of Long Island, and the Co-Director of the Neuro ICU at Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center.
Dr. Bekelis is a board certified fellowship trained neurosurgeon with subspecialty training in minimally invasive endovascular neurosurgery. As one of the most widely published stroke researchers in the country, with several national and international awards, Dr. Bekelis is the Chairman of Neurointerventional Services for Catholic Health (CH), the Director of the Stroke and Brain Aneurysm Center of Long Island, and the Co-Director of the Neuro ICU at Good Samaritan University Hospital (GSUH).
Dr. Kimon Bekelis
Dr. Kimon Bekelis: Advancing the Standard of Care for Stroke and Brain Aneurysm Treatment on Long Island
&
The Stroke and Brain Center of Long Island is the only comprehensive stroke center on the south shore of Long Island. Our expert team of clinicians are dedicated to all types of endovascular neurological disease and treatments. Our state-of-the-art outpatient center offers noninvasive neurovascular imaging that can aide in the early detection and treatment of carotid artery and neurovascular disease. Our monthly support group is open to all patients and family members who have been affected by neurovascular disease.
For more information or to schedule an appointment call 631-983-7072 or visit: strokecarelongisland.com
Congratulations to the Winners & Finalists of the 5th Annual Herald Long Island Choice Awards!
Dear Long Island Neighbor,
There’s something special about walking into a local shop where they know your name, or discovering a neighborhood gem that quickly becomes your new favorite. These local businesses—from beloved restaurants to trusted healthcare providers— aren’t just economic drivers; they are the heartbeat of our communities, shaping the distinct identities of every town, village, and neighborhood across Nassau and Suffolk counties. They deserve our recognition, patronage, and applause.
That’s why we are especially proud to present this keepsake publication celebrating the Fifth Anniversary of the 2026 Herald Long Island Choice Awards presented by PSEG Long Island. Over the past five years, this program has grown into one of the region’s most trusted and anticipated community-driven recognitions. This year alone, more than 450,000 votes were cast, highlighting exceptional businesses, nonprofits, and organizations across a wide range of categories. This remarkable participation is a testament to how deeply Long Islanders value quality, service, and community.
To mark this milestone year, nearly 700 guests gathered at the Crest Hollow Country Club on May 19 to celebrate close to 800 outstanding winners and finalists. The evening was filled with energy and pride as we honored the businesses and organizations that continue to set the standard for excellence across Long Island.
At the Herald, we are honored to share the stories of Long Island’s businesses, organizations, and entrepreneurs all year long. If you’re not already receiving your local Herald, we invite you to subscribe at liherald.com/subscribe.
For businesses looking to grow their brand and expand their reach, our team offers strategic marketing solutions across print, digital, direct mail, branded content, and more. To learn how we can support your goals, schedule a free consultation at liherald.com/advertise.
Finally, we extend our sincere appreciation to PSEG Long Island, our presenting sponsor, whose ongoing commitment strengthens communities throughout our region. Through their energy efficiency programs, small businesses can access valuable savings opportunities, including complimentary assessments by visiting psegliny.com/businessfirst or emailing pseg-libusinessfirst@pseg.com.
As we celebrate five years of recognizing Long Island’s best, we look ahead with excitement. Nominations for next year’s Long Island Choice Awards open in October—let’s continue to celebrate the excellence that makes our communities so special.
Your voice. Your choice.
Sincerely,
Stuart Richner CEO, Richner Communications Publisher, Herald Community Media
Nomination:
The public submits their favorite businesses and organizations.
Voting:
The top 5 nominees in each of the 250+ categories move on to the voting round, where 3 finalists in each category are selected.
Winners:
A gala-style live awards show with dinner is held at the Crest Hollow Country Club to celebrate the top 3 finalists and to announce the Long Island Choice Awards winner in each category.
Congratulations to the Winners and Finalists in the Long Island Choice Awards
Small businesses bring life to our communities. They are the restaurants, shops, and services that make each neighborhood unique and keep our local economy strong.
PSEG Long Island is proud to once again sponsor the Long Island Choice Awards, presented by the Herald, honoring the spirit and dedication of local businesses across our region.
PSEG Long Island is proud to be a reliable partner in delivering the energy that keeps these businesses humming. These businesses can’t miss a beat, and that’s why we’ve worked so hard to improve the energy grid and are now in the top 10% in reliability across the country and the most reliable electric overhead provider in NY state.
We’re committed to helping small businesses thrive, and we’re glad that you’ve recognized this as reflected in our company’s No. 1 ranking among large utilities in the East in the 2025 J.D. Power Business Customer Satisfaction Study. We’re continuing to work at it and our commitment is stronger than ever.
Through our Business First platform, we provide resources and incentives that make a real difference. Programs like Vacant Space Revival help fill empty storefronts, while Main Street Revitalization strengthens downtown districts. Since these programs began in 2018, PSEG Long Island has distributed more than $3 million in grants and discounts to hundreds of local small businesses.
Our team of Business First Advocates also know a lot about the businesses in your communities. They meet directly with local business owners to connect them to energy savings and business support tailored to their specific needs.
As we present this year’s Long Island Choice Awards, I want to thank all of you who nominated or voted for your favorite local business. I also want to congratulate all of this year’s nominees. Getting to this stage is proof that you have made a lasting, positive impact on your communities.
Matthew Ryan Biggin - MRB Accounting mrbaccounting.com
Jonathan WolfsohnWolfsohn Accounting And Advisory Services wolfsohn.biz
ACCOUNTING FIRM
Grassi grassiadvisors.com
FINALISTS
Richards Vissicchio Douglass CPAs PLLC rvdcpa.com
Prager Metis pragermetis.com
Fliegel Ca Pc fliegelcpa.com
BANK
Apple Bank applebank.com FINALISTS
Chase Bank chase.com
Citibank citi.com
CREDIT UNION
Suffolk Credit Union suffolkcu.org
FINALISTS
Teachers Federal Credit Union teachersfcu.org
Ocean Financial Federal Credit Union oceanfinancial.org
FINANCIAL ADVISOR
Mark Filiberto –Suffolk Investments at Suffolk Credit Union suffolkcu.org
FINALISTS
Barry Ringelheim - Ubs Financial Services advisors.ubs.com
George Schmansky- Mass Mutual| Blue Ocean Wealth Solutions financialprofessionals.massmutual.com
INSURANCE AGENT
Nicole Eliopoulos - State Farm nicoleinsuresme.com
FINALISTS
Alex AndersonAllstate Insurance agents.allstate.com/alexanderanderson-rockville-centre-ny.html
Katherine Miraval - State Farm kathymiraval.com
INSURANCE COMPANY
State Farm statefarm.com FINALISTS
National Security Brokerage Inc. nationalsecuritybrokerage.net
The Zabbia Insurance Agency zabbiaagency.com
WEALTH
MANAGEMENT FIRM
Frisch Financial Group frischfinancial.com
FINALISTS
Ringelheim Wealth Management Group - Ubs ubs.com
Copley Finacial Group financialplannersandiego.com
At Apple Bank, we’ve always believed that a strong community and a strong bank go hand in hand. We are proud to support the families, businesses and organizations in the neighborhoods we serve. Thank you, Long Island, for your continued support!
Putting Long Island’s Small Businesses First
On Long Island, small businesses don’t just fill storefronts, they fuel our local economy, employ our neighbors and shape the character of our communities. From familyowned restaurants and retail shops to professional offices and growing start-ups, small businesses are at the heart of our region’s success. That’s why PSEG Long Island has made a clear commitment: put business first.
The company’s Business First initiative was created to make it easier for small business owners to save energy, reduce operating costs and focus on growth. Rather than expecting business owners to navigate programs and incentives on their own, PSEG Long Island provides direct, personalized support through dedicated Business First Advocates. These advocates serve as a single point of contact, helping customers understand their energy use, identify savings opportunities and connect with the right rebates and solutions.
For many business owners, time is one of their most valuable resources. Business First Advocates simplify what can often feel complicated. Whether a company is upgrading equipment, expanding to a new location or simply looking for ways to cut monthly expenses, advocates guide them through available options and help move projects from concept to completion.
A key part of the program is helping businesses take advantage of meaningful financial incentives. PSEG Long Island offers a wide range of rebates designed to lower the upfront cost of energy efficiency improvements.
From high-efficiency HVAC systems and upgrades to improved refrigeration, weatherization and heat pump technologies, these investments can significantly reduce energy use while improving comfort for employees and customers alike.
businesses continues under new leadership, as Scott Jennings steps into his role leading PSEG Long Island. With a focus on affordability, reliability and customer experience, Jennings reinforces the company’s dedication to helping local businesses thrive.
For many small businesses, rebates are the difference between postponing a project and moving forward now. By lowering initial costs and improving long-term energy performance, these upgrades can strengthen a company’s bottom line and free up capital to reinvest in staff, equipment or expansion.
Business First isn’t only about upgrades. It also supports businesses through transitions and growth. Companies opening a new location or relocating within the region can receive guidance on starting service and understanding energy options from day one. The goal is to remove friction from the process, so entrepreneurs can focus on serving customers and building their future.
This commitment to small
That dedication has not gone unnoticed. PSEG Long Island was ranked No. 1 in business customer satisfaction among large electric utilities in the East in J.D. Power’s 2025 Business Customer Satisfaction Study. The recognition reflects feedback directly from small business customers and underscores the company’s commitment to delivering meaningful support.
At its core, Business First is about partnership. PSEG Long Island understands that when small businesses succeed, the entire region benefits.
Small businesses put everything into their work. Through Business First, PSEG Long Island is proud to put them first in return.
Pictured (l-r) are: Linda Herman, Veronica Isaac, Walter Hoefer, Michael Voltz and Alex Nyilas of PSEG Long Island’s Economic Development and Energy Efficiency departments with Keith Parendo, veterinarian/owner of St. Francis Hospital for Animals.
55+ COMMUNITY
Sutton Landing suttonlanding.com
FINALISTS
Brookwood At Oakdale Apartments brookwoodatoakdale.com
The Seasons theseasonsli.com
AIR CONDITIONING/HVAC & HEATING COMPANY
Pipe Doctor Home Services, Inc. pipedoc.net
FINALISTS
Absolute Air & Power Inc. absoluteairpower.com
Universe Home Services universehomeservices.com
AWNING COMPANY
Dart Awnings dartawnings.com
FINALISTS
Unified Home Remodeling unifiedhomeremodeling.com
Rollup Awnings rollupawnings.com
BASEMENT SERVICES
Complete Basement Systems completebasementsystems.com
Bellmore United Methodist Nursery School facebook.com/prekteachers123
Harrow International School New York harrownewyork.com
COLLEGE PREP SERVICES/ADVISORS
Chaminade High School chaminade-hs.org
FINALISTS
Lockwood College Prep lockwoodcollegeprep.com
Beyond The Test - Tutoring And College Prep beyondthetest.com
College 101 Resource Center college101prep.com
COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY
Molloy University molloy.edu
FINALISTS
Adelphi University adelphi.edu
Hofstra University hofstra.edu
Nassau Community College ncc.edu
COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY
PRESIDENT
Dr. Susan PoserHofstra University hofstra.edu
Dr. Maria Conzatti Nassau Community College ncc.edu
FINALISTS
Dr. James LentiniMolloy University molloy.edu
Dr. Andrea Goldsmith Stony Brook University stonybrook.edu
DANCE SCHOOL
Hart & Soul Performing Arts And Dance School facebook.com/p/Hart-SoulDance-and-Performing-ArtsWoodmere-100.063.516401198
FINALISTS
Oceanside Dance Center Inc oceansidedancecenter.com
Dream Center Dance Academy facebook.com/dreamcenterdanceacademy
DAY CAMP
Future Stars
Summer Camps fscamps.com
FINALISTS
Rolling River Day Camp rollingriver.com
Bright Star Academy brightstarschoolandcamp.com
DAY CARE
Bright Star Academy brightstarschoolandcamp.com FINALISTS
Barry & Florence Friedberg JCC friedbergjcc.org
Temple Israel Of Great Neck tign.org
DRIVING SCHOOL
Bell Auto Driving School bellautoschool.com
FINALISTS
East Meadow Driving School emdrivingschool.com
Suffolk Auto Driving School allsuffolkautoschool.com
GYMNASTICS CENTER
C.A.T.S Rockville Centre catsrvc.com
FINALISTS
5 Star Sports Academy 5starsportsacademy.com
Gold Medal Gymnastics Center gmgc.com
Mga Gymnastics joinmga.com
HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
Al Bauer- Hewlett High School hewlett-woodmere.net
FINALISTS
Nicole Milkowski - Saint Dominic High School hs.stdoms.org
Richard Schaffer - East Rockaway High School eastrockawayschools.org
Congratulations
Dr. Maria P. Conzatti and Nassau Community College on their respective nominations at the 2026 Herald Long Island Choice Awards
PDr. Maria P. Conzatti, Chief Administrative Officer Best College/University President
Nassau Community College Best College/University
Build Momentum Toward Something Greater
1032 Broadway, Woodmere, NY 11598 (Rear Entrance)
@hartandsouldancestudio Hart & Soul Dance and Performing Arts Woodmere (516) 295-2800 • Misstricia1@hotmail.com
You For Voting Us A
TOP MUSIC SCHOOL
RECENT STUDENTS HAVE EARNED ACCEPTANCES TO NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY, CARNEGIE MELLON, NYU, USC, MICHIGAN, UNC, UMIAMI, COLUMBIA AND VANDERBILT FULL SCHOLARSHIP Music Lessons NYSSMA Preparation Patricia Lee, BM Northwestern University, MM Manhattan School Of Music NYSSMA All State Accompanist & Adjudicator 516-343-4108 • woodmeremusic@gmail.com
for a free estimate: (917) 362-3146 Zuleima@blessedcleaningservice.com
Peconic Bay Vineyards By Krissie Wines krissiewine.com
Dr. Bekelis is a board certified fellowship trained neurosur geon with subspecialty training in minimally invasive endovascular neurosurgery. As one of the most prominent, widely published stroke researchers in the country, with several national and international awards, Dr. Bekelis is the Chairman of Neurointerventional Services for Catholic Health, the Director of the state-of-the-art Stroke and Brain Aneurysm Center of Long Island, and the Co-Director of the Neuro ICU at Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center.
Dr. Kimon Bekelis
Dr.
Kimon Bekelis:
Advancing the Standard of Care for Stroke and Brain Aneurysm Treatment on Long Island
Leading The Treatment of Stroke & Brain Aneurysm Center
on Long Island
A LOOK BACK AT LAST YEAR!
MOLLOY UNIVERSITY
IS PROUD TO CONGRATULATE OUR LONG ISLAND CHOICE AWARD RECIPIENTS:
PRESIDENT JAMES LENTINI
BEST COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT
MOLLOY UNIVERSITY
BEST COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY
MOLLOY UNIVERSITY
CONTINUING EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
BEST ADULT EDUCATION/CONTINUING EDUCATION PROGRAM
Molloy University, an independent Catholic university based in Rockville Centre, Long Island, New York, was founded in 1955. The University serves a student population of approximately 5,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Molloy students can earn degrees in a variety of outstanding academic programs, including nursing, business, education, social work, music therapy and many more.
Founded by the Dominican Sisters of Amityville.
At The Rizzuto Law Firm, we don't just practice law; we play to win. Our team of dedicated personal injury attorneys is here to go to bat for you.
At The Rizzuto Law Firm, we don't just practice law; we play to win. Our team of dedicated personal injury attorneys is here to go to bat for you.
Nominated in four categories at the prestigious Long Island Choice Awards, we're proud to be recognized as leaders in the legal field.
Nominated in four categories at the prestigious Long Island Choice Awards, we're proud to be recognized as leaders in the legal field.
VOTE FOR US
VOTE FOR US
Best Personal Injury Law Firm
Best Personal Injury Law Firm
Best Healthcare Law Firm
• Best Personal Injury Law Firm
Best Healthcare Law Firm
Best Law Firm with Under 30 Employees
• Best Healthcare Law Firm
Best Law Firm with Under 30 Employees
• Best Law Firm with Under 30 Employees
Our Dedication to winning has earned us these nominations, a testament to our unwavering dedication to our clients who are neglected and injured and the pursuit of justice
Our Dedication to winning has earned us these nominations, a testament to our unwavering dedication to our clients who are neglected and injured and the pursuit of justice
Open 24 Hours a Day
Uniondale Office
Uniondale Office
The Rizzuto Law Firm
The Rizzuto Law Firm
50 Charles Lindbergh Blvd. #501, Uniondale, NY 11553 (516) 622-0606
50 Charles Lindbergh Blvd. #501, Uniondale, NY 11553 (516) 622-0606
New Rochelle Office
New Rochelle Office
The Rizzuto Law Firm
The Rizzuto Law Firm 20 Burling Lane New Rochelle, NY 10801 (914) 744-PHIL (7445)
20 Burling Lane New Rochelle, NY 10801 (914) 744-PHIL (7445)
The Garcia’s were ready to upgrade their starter home, but moving wasn’t in the cards.
So Ellen transformed their backyard into the ultimate entertainment oasis.
• Local & trusted on Long Island since 1985
• Family-owned & operated for 3 generations
• Affordable, flexible pricing options
• Safe & professional service you can count on
• Reliable deliveries, even in the toughest weather
• Tank monitor service for total peace-of-mind
Since 1985, Paraco has been delivering dependable propane solutions to homes and businesses on Long Island. From heating and cooking to backup power and outdoor living, Paraco provides safe, reliable energy with fast, responsive service.
Paraco is honored to be part of the Long Island community and to be a 2026 finalist for BEST GAS/PROPANE COMPANY. 833.460.2689 paracogas.com
