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GSH opens new health-care pavilion

Obituary: Famed musician Naomi Drucker

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MFD among eight departments to battle late-night blaze By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

Photo Courtesy Town of Oyster Bay

Shown at swearing in are Councilmen Andrew Monteleone, Tom Hand, and Louis Imbroto; Supervisor Joseph Saladino; Councilwomen Vicki Walsh and Laura Maier; Councilman Steve Labriola and Tax Receiver Jeff Pravato.

Oyster Bay officials sworn in at 2026 inauguration By MIKE POLANSKY Senior Correspondent

The Town of Oyster Bay hosted its 2026 inauguration ceremony Jan. 8 at South Woods Middle School, where Supervisor Joseph Saladino, Councilmen Lou Imbroto and Tom Hand, and newly elected Councilman Andrew Monteleone were sworn in for new terms. Roughly 200 people attended the ceremony, which featured remarks from Nassau County Republican Chairman Joseph Cairo Jr., who praised Saladino’s leadership style. “He treats the bank president and the bank janitor exactly the same way — with dignity and respect,” Cairo said. Councilman Monteleone was sworn in by Nassau County Family Court Judge Chris Coschignano, a former town councilman. Hand was sworn in by former Supervisor Angelo Delligatti, who also served as master of ceremonies. Imbroto was sworn in by Nassau District Court Judge Michele Johnson, who

previously served alongside him on the Town Board. The final swearing-in of the evening was that of Supervisor Saladino, who was sworn in by his brother, Nassau County Court Judge James Saladino. In his speech after being sworn in, Saladino thanked all the people who work for the Town of Oyster Bay, emphasizing their “hard work, patience and loyalty,” and noting that “we’re a team in Oyster Bay, and that teamwork pays off.” He also thanked his wife, Helena. “Your strength guides me, your encouragement fuels me, your patience to deal with my intensity is amazing, but most of all your love and belief in me carries me each and every day,” he said. Saladino has served as supervisor since 2017 and is the town’s 70th to hold the office. Town Clerk Rich LaMarca, who was reelected, did not attend due to shoulder surgery and will be sworn in at a later date. CONTINUED ON PAGE9

Two North Amityville firefighters are recovering from minor injuries after battling a commercial building fire late New Year’s Day, fire officials said. Firefighters were called around 10:30 p.m. Jan. 1 to reports of smoke and a working fire at a large warehouse on Albany Avenue. Crews arriving on scene immediately searched for occupants and stretched two hose lines into the building, according to John Heidrich, North Amityville Fire Department’s District Supervisor. Firefighters were forced to retreat due to heavy fire and smoke conditions and concerns about a possible roof collapse. Once outside, crews set up tower ladders and began attacking the fire from above.

“They were able to contain the fire to the center of the building, which has several tenants,” said Heidrich. As conditions improved, firefighters reentered the building and extinguished the fire with assistance from multiple neighboring departments, including Farmingdale, North Lindenhurst, Lindenhurst, West Babylon, Amityville, Massapequa and Copiague. The Melville Fire Department responded with a drone unit, officials said. The Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance Corps treated the two injured firefighters and one civilian, all of whom sustained minor injuries. “In all, we probably had about 100 firefighters at the scene,” Heidrich said. First Assistant Chief Devon Rhodan was in charge at the scene.

Courtesy Paul Mazza/Zone2 Photos

Volunteers from the Massapequa Fire Department rushed to assist at the scene of fire in North Amityville New Year’s night.

Lockhart marks 37 years of making wishes come true For the second year in a row, Lockhart Elementary School in Massapequa reached the $15,000 mark for its annual donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The total was revealed at the end of the annual Make-A-Wish concert on Dec. 23, drawing applause and cheers from the crowd of students, staff, teachers, administrators, board of education trustees, local elected officials and PTA leaders. The concert featured a collection of Christmas, Hanukkah and winter songs performed by the fifth grade orchestra, chorus and band. The orchestra, which opened the show, was led by Inna Tymochko-Dekajlo. Chorus students, under the direction of Kathleen Dyckman, closed out their foursong set with the highly-anticipated “Holiday Lights.” The band was conducted by Nicole Boyle. Fundraising events for the Make-A-Wish Foundation took place over the previous six weeks, including a walk-a-thon, raffle ticket

sales and more. The $15,000 raised will be used to grant a wish for Ezra, a 6-year-old boy who recently had a liver transplant. He and his family will be taking a trip to Disney World. “This is not just another school fundraiser, this is not just another school collection,” Principal Michael DeLuca said. “The spirit of Make-A-Wish and what it represents completely embodies what Lockhart strives to be. This wonderful organization helps families lives out a dream that might not be possible. For us to be a part of that truly shows how much we care about helping others.” Started in 1989, Lockhart’s 37 years of donating to Make-A-Wish is the longest-running school campaign in the United States. Joan Siedlecki, a wish granter, accepted the donation and talked to students about the mission and purpose of the organization. “Wishes are so much more than a trip, a puppy or a gaming system,” Assistant

Courtesy Massapequa school district

Lockhart Elementary School’s annual fundraiser for the Make-A-Wish Foundation raised $15,000, which was unveiled at a concert on Dec. 23. From left are student council Vice President Griffin Maciag and President Madison Sheinfeld, Principal Michael DeLuca, wish granter Joan Siedlecki, Assistant Principal Louisa Vecchione and student council adviser Diane Bacheller.

Members of the fifth grade chorus entertained the crowd with a selection of holiday tunes.

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Principal Louisa Vecchione said. “They are a spark of hope, a reminder that anything is possible. Year after year, I have seen our school unite as a family to bring joy and strength to children and their families.”

The program also featured remarks from student council adviser Diane Bacheller and student council president Madison Sheinfeld, and closed out with a holiday sing-along for all students, staff and guests.

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January 14, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

GSH opens new six-story patient care pavilion By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

Good Samaritan University Hospital in West Islip has opened a patient car pavilion and state-of-the-art emergency department as part of a major expansion designed to enhance care for patients across Suffolk County. The grand opening was attended by several hundred people, including community members, first responders, religious leaders and CSCH officials who were given a tour of the building. The new facility is a six-story, 300,000-square-foot patient care pavilion, a $500 million investment by Catholic Health aimed at modernizing the South Shore’s largest hospital. The pavilion officially opened after more than ten years of planning and construction. “This is the biggest investment in the history of our health system,” said Dr. Patrick M. O’Shaughnessy, president and CEO Catholic Health. “It is an indication of what we can do when we work together to achieve greatness.” According to Catholic Health Long Island, Good Samaritan which opened its doors in 1959, the hospital’s expanded emergency department includes 75 private treatment bays with dedicated areas for both adult and pediatric patients, a secure holding area and an enlarged ambulance bay. It provides direct vertical access to 16 advanced operating rooms, including hybrid surgical suites, which hospital officials say will help speed response times for trauma, stroke, cardiac and other critical emergencies. The hospital had 91,000 emergency room visits last year and hospital lead-

ership said the project reflects Catholic Health’s commitment to improving patient outcomes and enhancing the overall care experience. As word spreads about the new facility, health-care providers like Dr. Christiopher Raio, Chief of Emergency Medical Services for Good Samaritan, said the new facility will attract top notch health care professionals, nurses and doctors from around the region, further allowing it to provide the best care possible for patients. “It is going to definitely drive talent here,” he said. “This investment affirms our steadfast commitment to advancing the standard of care to ensure every patient who walks through our doors receives the best possible outcomes,” said O’Shaughnessy. In addition to the emergency department, the new pavilion includes a dedicated floor of 36 private medical-surgical rooms equipped with smart-room technology, video conferencing capabilities and private baths for greater patient comfort. Officials said the layout was shaped with input from physicians and nurses to optimize workflow and safety. “Good Samaritan’s level 1 trauma center provides vital care to those in need of medical treatment, as well as a place where police, fire and other emergency responders from the Babylon, Islip and eastern Nassau County area can transport patients requiring critical and specialized emergency care.,” said a hospital spokesman. For more information go to catholichealthli.org

Carolyn James/Herald

Emergency room medical team: AVP of Imaging and Cancer Services Ralph Corbino, Associate Chair of the Emergency Department Dr. Eric Decena, Emergency Department Nurse Manager Denise Devoe, Nursing Director of Emergency Medicine Theresa Tomkin, Catholic Health Chair of Emergency Medicine Dr. Christopher Raio, Medical Director of Pediatric Emergency Medicine Dr. Corneila Muntean.

Big care for little patients GSH brings brighter, friendlier ER The new Good Samaritan Hospital emergency room introduced the Del Vecchio Family Foundation Pediatric Emergency Department, a bright, family focused space with 12 private rooms, two isolation rooms and a comforting waiting area created for children and their families. Good Samaritan is the only hospital on the south shore with a dedicated pediatric trauma and emergency department, led by specially trained pediatric emergency physicians and child life specialists. Every detail, from lighting to color palette, was designed to make the hospital less stressful for young patients.

A large crowd attended the recent opening of Good Samaritan Hospital’s level 1 Trauma center and health pavilion.

Credit CreativeMetro

Good Samaritan Hospital’s family-focused emergency room helps to take the stress out of these visits for patients and families.

The emergency room has three of the latest MRI machines.

Dr. Patrick M. O’Shaughnessy, president and CEO Catholic Health, speaks to crowd at opening of new pavilion at Good Samaritan Hospital in West Islip.

MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — January 14, 2026

Multi-million dollar investment includes new level-1 trauma center

Lindenhurst man arrested for arson in Massapequa Park

Help Wanted Digital Pre-Press Operator – Full-Time, Evening/overnight shift J oin our web press production team! The Digital Pre-Press Operator prepares ads, editorial pages, and special sections for high-volume print production, ensuring files meet technical standards, color accuracy, and are press-ready. This hands-on role requires attention to detail, technical skill, and teamwork in a fast-paced environment. Responsibilities: • Preflight, prepare, and process digital files through RIP workflows. • Ensure accurate color, resolution, fonts, imposition, and plate readiness. • Perform quality checks on ads and editorial content. • Troubleshoot technical issues with files, RIP, and press output. • Coordinate with editorial, advertising, and pressroom teams. • Maintain file organization, backups, and workflow documentation. Requirements: • 2–5+ years pre-press experience in newspapers, magazines, or high-volume print. • Proficiency in Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat; RIP systems knowledge. • Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and ability to meet deadlines. • Ability to lift plates (20–30 lbs) and work in a production environment. Preferred:Experience with web press imposition, color-management systems, or workflow automation. Schedule: Evening/overnight shift, full-time; flexibility needed for peak periods. Compensation: Benefits package and hourly rate based on experience $17.50 - $23.50

Two N.C. Officers injured during incident in Farmingdale

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A Lindenhurst man has sau County Arson Squad been arrested and charged arrested Kevin Seymour, with arson in connection with 46, of 340 North Indiana an incident that took place in Avenue. The defendant Massapequa Park Tues., Jan. was transported to a local 6. area hospital for smoke inNassau County Police gave halation. No other injuries this account: were reported. Nassau Police officers reSeymour is charged sponded to a Park Lane home with Attempted Arson 2nd Tues., Jan. 6 for a disturbance. Degree, Criminal Mischief Upon arrival they observed a 3rd Degree and Arson 5th small fire inside an attached Degree. He was arraigned carport. The Massapequa Fire KEVIN SEYMOUR on Tuesday, January 6, Department responded to exat First District Court, 99 tinguish the flames. Main Street, Hempstead. The case against After a thorough investigation, the Nas- him is pending.

Two men were arrested early Saturday, Jan. 3, after a disturbance outside a Farmingdale bar escalated into an encounter that left two police officers injured, authorities said. Police said officers on patrol around 4 a.m. Jan. 3 observed a group causing a disturbance outside the X Bar at 195 Main St. Officers intervened, and the group initially dispersed. A short time later, police said, Niquan Joiner, 24, of East Patchogue, and Devlin Samuels, 23, of Wyandanch, returned to the area and began acting erratically. When officers attempted to stop them, the men entered a blue Nissan Murano. As officers tried to remove Samuels from the passenger side of the vehicle, Joiner allegedly put the car in gear and accelerated. One officer was dragged several feet before

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breaking free, police said. The vehicle was stopped near the intersection of Melville Road and Main Street. Police said both defendants resisted arrest and were combative, resulting in injuries to two officers. The officers were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Joiner and Samuels were each charged with second-degree assault, resisting arrest and second-degree obstructing governmental administration. Joiner was additionally charged with reckless driving and third-degree unlawful fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle. Both men were scheduled to be arraigned in First District Court in Hempstead. This story was posted online Saturday, January 3 and made available to readers at massapequapost.com

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January 14, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

The Massapequa Herald Post USPS 333440, is published every Wednesday by Richner Communications, Inc., 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Periodicals postage paid at Garden City, NY 11530 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster send address changes to Massapequa Herald Post, 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Newsstand Price: $1. Annual Subscription Rates, $52 per year auto-pay or $65 one-time payment within Nassau County or $76 outside of Nassau County. Copyright © 2026 Richner Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Defense propels Plainedge’s hot start By MARC BERMAN sports@liherald.com

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

games to watch Thursday, Jan. 15 Girls Basketball: Wantagh at V.S. South ................. 5 p.m. Girls Basketball: Plainedge at Lynbrook ................. 5 p.m. Boys Basketball: Uniondale at Freeport ................. 5 p.m. Boys Basketball: North Shore at Seaford .......... 6:45 p.m. Boys Basketball: Baldwin at East Meadow........ 6:45 p.m. Boys Basketball: V.S. South at Wantagh ............ 6:45 p.m. Girls Basketball: Seaford at North Shore .......... 6:45 p.m. Girls Basketball: G.N. South at Calhoun............ 6:45 p.m. Boys Basketball: Plainedge at Lynbrook................. 7 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 16 Boys Basketball: Clarke at Elmont ......................... 5 p.m. Boys Basketball: Floral Park at Calhoun................. 5 p.m. Boys Basketball: F-Dale at Massapequa........... 6:45 p.m. Boys Basketball: Oceanside at V.S. Central ....... 6:45 p.m. Girls Basketball: Uniondale at Freeport............. 6:45 p.m. Girls Basketball: East Meadow at G.City ........... 6:45 p.m. Girls Basketball: Bethpage at South Side .............. 7 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 17 Girls Basketball: Elmont at Clarke...................11:45 a.m. Girls Basketball: MacArthur at Jericho ............11:45 a.m. Boys Basketball: Sewanhaka at Division.........11:45 a.m. Boys Basketball: Hewlett at Garden City .........12:45 p.m. Boys Basketball: Mineola at East Rock ............. 1:45 p.m.

Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete” High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a winter sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.

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There hasn’t been many offensive fireworks in North Massapequa this season but there hasn’t been many losses either. As predicted, Plainedge girls basketball is off to a prosperous start with a 9-2 record, including 4-0 in Conference A1 after moving up from A2. The junior-dominated Red Devils are scoring just 42 points per game but it hasn’t derailed Plainedge’s dream of getting to the Nassau Class A Final Four. The defense has been incredible — allowing just 27 ppg. “We’re not really scoring that much but we hold every team to under 40,’’ head coach Sarah Tansey said. “MacArthur scores 60 on average but scored just 41 points on us (Dec. 15.) Backcourt, halfcourt, we pressure all over and force turnovers.’’ Junior point guard Peyton Wise cites the evolving X’s and O’s for its defensive might. “We’re doing a good job of stopping the other team’s offense,’’ Wise said. “We’ve come up with different plans to defend our opponents.’’ Junior Allison Younghans has been Plainedge’s best player on both sides of the ball. She’s averaging 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds and 3.1 steals. In its biggest win on Dec. 17, Younghans poured in 17 points over rugged Floral Park. Younghans is the Red Devils’ best onball defender but she’s got plenty of teammates putting forth the defensive effort. Younghans’ sidekick is Wise, who is having a strong season. She’s averaging 8.1 points, 8.2 rebounds and 2.4 steals, throwing in a couple of double-digit outings. “She’s had games of double figures and a game with 4 points,’’ Tansey said. “But even if she scores 4, she’s getting close to 10 rebounds and still finds a way to impact the game.’’ Wise, who is 5-foot-7, says of her rebounding prowess, “It’s really to find a player to mark and box them out and

Erik Lee/Herald

Junior Michela Netto is a key defender for the Red Devils, and she had 10 points in a Jan. 5 win over Mineola. try to anticipate where the ball is going as much as possible. “We lean on them,’’ Tansey added of the Younghans-Wise duo. Another sensation defender had been Michela Netto, a junior forward who is 5-6. She collected 10 points in a Mineola victory Jan. 5 but mostly she’s about guarding the other team’s best player. Junior Giovanna Pannitti is another important piece as a defensive forward. The two losses were non-league matches against Massapequa and MacArthur, two strong teams. The Red Devils need to be more explosive to compete with those powers. “We always emphasize things on defense but we have to make layups and free throws,’’ Tansey said. “That’s been our struggle. It’s inconsistent.’’ Plainedge was next primed for a showdown versus defending Long

Island Class A champion Wantagh to start the week. But beating Floral Park, 42-39 in a home game three weeks ago was a confidence booster. “It was big,’’ Tansey said. “It was definitely just rewarding to play that game,’’ Wise said. Last season, Plainedge’s successful year was derailed early in the playoffs by North Shore, perhaps its eight-person roster wearing down. The returning juniors are ready to have a better postseason but also know next season looks golden. “This year, we definitely improved as a team,’’ Wise said. “We do have some freshmen and sophomores on the team now. It’s more team contributions that everyone brings. Each player has improved. I would say this year we do have a good chance to go further and the year to come after.’’

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January 14, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

High school leaders ease transition for Massapequa sixth graders

MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — January 14, 2026 Courtesy Massapequa school district

Student government leaders from Massapequa High School’s main and Ames campuses visited Berner Middle School on Dec. 18 and 19 to speak to sixth graders on a variety of topics to help them succeed in their secondary years. have the same experiences we had.” Before the presentations, students from MS 101 classes wrote down questions, which were given to the high school student leaders to answer at the end of each session. In the weeks leading up to the Berner visit, student leaders got together to prepare their presentations. Beyond digital slideshows, high school students shared their own stories and experiences, which made the most impact on their younger peers. “It seemed clear that all students

benefitted from the experience,” said Brian Trapani, Ed.D., assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction. “The high school student council enjoyed speaking to the sixth graders about these important topics and practiced the important skill of public speaking to engage others. The

sixth graders enthusiastically shared questions and comments with the high school students as they learned the value of time management, how important it is to avoid peer pressure and bullying and how they can get involved in all the middle school and high school has to offer.”

Read the Masapequa Herald Post. Call 516-569-4000 to subscribe.

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For sixth graders in the Massapequa School District, their secondary years have just begun and a lot of promise and potential lie ahead. High school student leaders recently visited Berner Middle School to give their younger peers some tips on how to successfully navigate the next six plus years. Student council leaders and class officers led presentations for sixth graders in the library during their MS 101 classes. Each grade covered a different topic. Ninth graders from the Ames Campus focused on time management. Massapequa High School’s main campus sophomores gave an anti-bullying presentation where juniors spoke about resisting peer pressure and seniors discussed the importance of getting involved in student life, such as clubs, community service and sports. “A majority of my memories in high school are from being involved,” said senior Dan Walsh, who is part of student government and a member of the football, wrestling and lacrosse teams. Seniors said that they wanted their presentations to have an impact on the sixth graders to help grow the next generation of Massapequa student leaders. They noted that there are so many ways to get involved in middle school and high school that sixth graders might not know about yet. “We feel so connected to the high school because of all of these opportunities we have,” senior Tatum Brennan said. “We genuinely want them to

January 14, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

L.I. roots shape Blakeman’s bid for governor By MOHAMMAD RAFIQ & ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO Special to the Herald

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman announced last month that he would run for governor this year. His bid attracted more media focus when his potential Republican primary contender, U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik, abruptly dropped out of the race a week before Christmas, and when President Trump endorsed Blakeman the following day. “As I travel around the state, one of the things that stands out is the fact that people are basically unhappy,” Blakeman, 70, told the Herald when asked why he was running. They’re miserable with [Gov.] Kathy Hochul’s leadership.” (Hochul will be challenged in a Democratic primary by Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado.) “The economy is doing very badly in many portions of the state,” Blakeman added. “They need job creation, economic development. Communities are unsafe. They want more policing. They want more secure neighborhoods, and they don’t DONALD STEINERT like a lot of the policies that Kathy Hochul has, especially Former classmate, taking away a lot of the control Valley Stream over the schools from parents Central High School and trying to centralize it in Albany.” Blakeman cited a number of the county’s accomplishments under his leadership. The county tax property levy has not changed during his first term. Nassau’s bond rating has been upgraded, and it has been recognized for being a safe place to live with a low poverty rate compared with the rest of the state.

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

Tim Baker/Herald photos

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

From Valley Stream to county power Blakeman, a lifetime Long Islander, was born in Oceanside in 1955. He graduated from Valley Stream Central High School, where he played basketball, and went on to attend Arizona State University and California Western Law School. As an attorney, he focused on real estate, commercial litigation, personal injury, land use, transportation, finance and insurance. In 1993, Blakeman ran for public office for the first time, and was elected to the Hempstead Town Board. Three years later, after the creation of the Nassau County Legislature, the then 41-year-old became the new body’s first presiding officer. Blakeman lost the 1998 race for state comptroller to Democrat Carl McCall, and lost his seat in the Legislature the following year. In 2021 Blakeman was appointed by Gov. George Pataki — the last Republican to hold statewide office — to be a commissioner on the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, a position he held until 2009. After a failed run at the U.S. Senate and an appointment to the Hempstead Town Board in 2015 — a fullcircle moment for Blakeman — he was selected by Nassau Republicans to challenge Democratic County Executive Laura Curran. He won an extraordinarily tight race by a .35 percent-point margin over the incumbent.

A familiar figure at home Steve Bello, now an executive vice president at Northwell Health, came to know Blakeman through his work at what was then Franklin General Hospital, later renamed Long Island Jewish Valley Stream. Bello, who was the hospital’s president from 2016 to 2019, said his role required close engagement with community leaders and families who had long supported the institution. According to Bello, the Blakeman family was among the most influential supporters

Blakeman, a Valley Stream native, has served as county executive since 2022. He has cited flat property taxes, bond-rating upgrades and public safety initiatives as key accomplishments during his tenure. of the hospital, particularly at times when it faced financial and operational challenges. Bello’s earliest interactions were with Blakeman’s father, Robert Blakeman, who served as a state assemblyman in the 1960s and a member of the board that approved the hospital’s transition to the Northwell system. As Robert’s health declined, Bello said, his son became more involved not only in his care, but also with the broader issues affecting the hospital and the surrounding community. “Bruce had actually been working at that time as an attorney in the area, and had lots of influence with many folks,” Bello recalled. “When there were opportunities for the hospital to do better in one way or

another, where he was getting feedback from the community, [or] if there was an opportunity for the hospital to partner with people, so we could potentially expand our services, Bruce was always helpful … when it just came down to supporting the hospital publicly as a place of really excellent care and great opportunity.” While Blakeman no longer has a formal role with the hospital, Bello said he remains engaged in health care issues and continues to support the institution. “What I know is what that family has done for that community, the hospital, in particular,” Bello said. “If he’s able to translate that really personal, philanthropic and caring kind of sentiment that was evident in his support for the hospital into a larger role for him, politically, he would be wonderful.” Donald Steinert’s connection with Blakeman dates back more than 50 years, to Valley Stream Central High School. Steinert, a Vietnam veteran who returned to finish high school in 1972, at age 20, recalled sharing a business law class with Blakeman. Steinert said that Blakeman treated him with respect at a time when he felt out of place, which Steinert credits with helping him complete his education. Steinert, who now lives in Suffolk County, supports Blakeman’s run for governor, believing his experience as county executive has prepared him for higher office. “I wish the best for his governor’s run,” Steinert said. “The state is long overdue for a governor like Bruce, and I would love to see it.” Not all Valley Stream residents see Blakeman’s candidacy through the same lens. Althea Campbell, who has lived in the village for 21 years, said she remembers Blakeman attending community events. She noted that his presence made him a familiar figure to residents, many of whom have followed his career. Campbell, a lifelong Democrat, said she supports Hochul and disagrees with aspects of Republican leadership. “I have nothing personally against Bruce Blakeman, but [Hochul is] where my vote will go,” Campbell said. “But I think with the right support, anybody can excel, and I’m sure he can make a believer out of me. But the current state of affairs,” she added, referring to the Republican Party, “is a little painful.”

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MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — January 14, 2026

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Mike Polansky/Herald

Supervisor Saladino is sworn in, as his wife Helena holds the Bible.

Ceremony includes returning board members and newly elected Monteleone CONTINUED FROM COVER

Councilmen Imbroto and Hand were first elected in 2017. Monteleone was appointed in 2025 to fill the vacancy left by Johnson, who became a judge.

Under New York’s new Even Year Election Law, Saladino will serve a oneyear term, instead of the usual two, to align future supervisor elections with

Featuring the Music of Whitney Houston

MAR 12–APR 26

C H I L D R E N’S

T H E A T E R

Jan 24–Mar 1 Mike Polansky/Herald

At left, Massapequa Park Village Mayor Daniel Pearl (R) congratulates Tom Hand (L) on his re-election. Right: Republican County Chair Joseph Cairo addresses the audience.

Mar 21–Apr 26 Youth Edition

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Rogers & Hammerstein’s

January 14, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

WHAT’S UP NEXT DOOR AND AROUND THE CORNER

HERALD NEIGHBORS Artist Christine Stoddard brings passion for nature and play to solo show By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD Artist and writer Christine Stoddard, known for work that celebrates play, experimentation, and emotional honesty, is the subject of a solo exhibition at the Copiague Memorial Public Library. Running through Feb. 28, the exhibition features Stoddard’s sculptural paintings and marks a significant moment in a multidisciplinary career that spans visual art, literature, and community engagement. Stoddard has been recognized as one of Brooklyn Magazine’s Top 50 Most Fascinating People and recently completed Columbia University’s Advanced Painting Intensive. She is also the founder of Quail Bell, a multimedia storytelling studio based in Ridgewood, Queens. A native of Arlington, Virginia, Stoddard moved to New York City in 2016 and earned a Master of Fine Arts degree from the City College of New York in 2019. Earlier in her career, she worked with adults with disabilities through HeartShare Human Services of New York— an experience she has said deeply influenced her understanding of creativity, communication, and expression. Stoddard describes her artistic philosophy as grounded in a willingness to “let loose and play,” an approach she views as essential to creating authentic art. Her sculptural paintings often blur the boundaries between two- and three-dimensional forms, inviting viewers to engage with texture, narrative, and material in unexpected ways. In an interview with the Herald, Stoddard said she hopes the exhibition resonates with audiences of all ages, encouraging both children and adults to reconnect with curiosity and creativity. Library officials said the exhibition reflects the institution’s ongoing commitment to presenting contemporary artists and offering accessible cultural programming for the community. The exhibition is open to the public during regular library hours, giving visitors an opportunity to experience Stoddard’s work and explore themes of imagination, play, and artistic freedom at the start of the new year. What made you decide to have your show at Copiague Memorial Public Library? My friend showed at the library. She was an artist and it was a place she had recommended before she passed away. It’s wonderful to have

cbabirad@liherald.com my work featured at Copiague Library and I do a lot of work on the island even though I currently live in Brooklyn. I do a lot of work in different kinds of video production, acting, hosting and brand ambassadorship, and so much of that happens outside the city. Largely through Meagan, I became more and more familiar with everything that’s happening here, met more people, checked out different parks in my spare time, and I’m trying to connect with people who otherwise I might see on a shoot or doing a live event. Please tell me about your work. I make sculptures. It’s something that is a lot more solitary than video or film production and it’s something I can do on my own time and sharing it with the community is a way to share part of my interior life. A lot of the work I’m showing is playing with the idea of “What is a painting?” I call them sculptural paintings or sculptural wall hangings where they do have these threedimensional elements to them but there are also painted aspects. I really love painting animals. What can viewers expect when they come to your show? It’s going to be a series of paintings that all have some kind of sculptural aspect and some kind of nature aspect, largely focused on animals as icons and also some of their rituals or what I perceive as rituals in nature. There’s also going to be a fair amount of other nature imagery— landscapes, forests, oceans, water patterns. That’s something I love about the island—the variety of nature. You can go and be in a forest, at the beach, or a suburban park, and that’s something that my friend Meagan really loved to do and something that we bonded over, just spending time in nature. Even when I’m in the city, if there’s ever a chance to just pause and admire nature, I appreciate doing that. What do you think viewers will most enjoy about your work? It’s family friendly. It’s something that people of all ages can look at and when I’ve had children engage with my art, they usually love finding the animal or mountain in the work. Many of my figures are abstracted, they’re not pure abstraction and the children often like finding where the animal or plant is— finding ‘oh there’s a mountain…there’s a fox.’ And the adults tend to admire the colors and

Courtesy of Christine Stoddard

Christine Stoddard, whose unique art will be on exhibit at Copiague Library through Feb. 28.

Forest Bear Stoddard’s “Forest Bear Rock” a work in progress. textures. I hope those who come in to view the show take the time to pause and embrace a sense of play. I get frustrated with artists who take themselves too seriously all the time. There are of course moments or situations that require you to be serious but I still think that it’s important to have levity and to appreciate beauty. That is what art is for. Library patrons can view Stod-

dard’s show during Copiague Memorial Public Library’s regular hours. The Library is at 50 Deauville Blvd., Copiague and can be reached at 631-691-1111. To learn more about Stoddard’s work, go to christinestoddard.com/ visual-art-portfolio, or Instagram at stoddardsays.

The Town of Oyster Bay’s Distinguished Artists Concert Series will return with free performances at local libraries from January through May, Town Clerk Richard LaMarca announced. “The Distinguished Artists Concert Series provides free musical and dance programs for the enjoyment of our residents,” LaMarca said in a statement. He encouraged residents to attend the performances, which are open to the public. Three concerts are scheduled for January: • The Day Trippers will perform Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026, at 2 p.m. at the Massapequa Public Library, paying tribute to The Beatles. • Southbound will perform Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026, at 4 p.m. at the Plainview-Old Bethpage Public Library. The band will

perform a range of popular hits. The concert is open to all, but free tickets are required and is available at the library. For information, call the library at 516-938-0077. • The Chimes, honoring Lenny Cocco, will perform Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026, at 1 p.m. at the Syosset Public Library. The group will perform classic songs including “Once in a While,” “I’m in the Mood for Love” and “Let’s Fall in Love.” The concert is open to all, with free tickets required. Registration begins Dec. 22 at syosset.librarycalendar. com. The series is sponsored by the Cultural and Performing Arts Division of the Town of Oyster Bay’s Department of Community and Youth Services. For a full schedule and additional information, call 516-797-7900 or visit oysterbaytown.com/CAPA.

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Oyster Bay Town adjusts recycling schedule for MLK Day

MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — January 14, 2026

Oyster Bay Town’s free concert series coming up at local libraries

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No collections on Jan. 19; parks, rinks to stay open with extended hours day pickup will be collected on Tuesday, Jan. 20. Tuesday collections will shift to Wednesday, Jan. 21.” Town offices will be closed for the holiday, but parks and skating rinks will remain open and operate with extended hours. For more information, visit www.oysterbaytown.com.

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The Town of Oyster Bay is reminding residents that there will be changes to sanitation and recycling pickups due to the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday. “There will be no sanitation or S.O.R.T. recycling collection on Monday, Jan. 19, for residents who normally receive town service,” Councilman Tom Hand said. “Residents with regular Mon-

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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OBITUARY

Naomi Drucker, acclaimed clarinetist and local resident, dies at 93 By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

Naomi Drucker, a pioneering classical clarinetist, respected educator and longtime Massapequa resident whose career spanned more than seven decades, died Dec. 12 in San Diego. She was 93. A graduate of Hofstra University, Drucker was co-founder of the American Chamber Ensemble and an influential figure in classical music education. She was also the mother of Lee Rocker, the bassist for the rockabilly band Stray Cats. Drucker and her husband, Stanley Drucker — the longtime principal clarinetist of the New York Philharmonic — lived for decades along a canal in Massapequa. Their boat, named The Noni, was often docked just outside their back door. Together, they spent summers boating along the South Shore, from Fire Island to Block Island. “Naomi and Stanley were among the most talented people ever to live in Massapequa,” said Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino. “They were national and international treasures, and I was lucky to be able to call them my friends for decades.”

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The Druckers were also known for opening their home to young musicians, encouraging and inspiring them. “In the 1970s, the Druckers’ garage was a hotbed of live music,” Saladino said. “My band played there when I was younger. It housed some of the most talented local rock musicians, many of whom went on to significant acclaim because of Naomi Drucker’s encouragement and generosity.” Born Naomi Frances Lewis in Freeport, Drucker began her professional career at age 21 as principal clarinetist of the North Carolina Symphony. She later performed with the Long Island Symphony, the New York Virtuosi and other prominent ensembles, and also played in the clarinet section of the New York Philharmonic in New York and on international tours. In 1965, she co-founded the American Chamber Ensemble with pianist Blanche Abram. Under Drucker’s leadership, the ensemble championed works by American composers including Elie Siegmeister and Marga Richter, and performed extensively throughout Long Island and New York state. With her husband and Abram, Drucker also performed as part of the

Drucker Trio, specializing in repertoire written for two clarinets and piano. The trio recorded several albums and premiered new works composed specifically for the ensemble. Drucker served for decades as an adjunct professor of music at Hofstra University, mentoring countless students. She received the George M. Estabrook Distinguished Alumni Award in 1994 and was named an honorary member of the International Clarinet Association in 2025. Drucker is survived by her daughter, Rosanne Drucker, a musician and singer-songwriter; her son, Leon Drucker, known internationally as Lee Rocker; her son-in-law, davidji; her daughter-in-law, Deborah and her grandchildren, Justin and Sadie Rose. Services were private.

Naomi Drucker

ATTENTION FAMILIES AND FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Family members and funeral directors may submit obituary notices to us at: Massapequa Herald Post, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530 or may call us at 516-569-4000 ext. 329.

Skating rinks open with holiday hours on Martin Luther King Day, Jan. 15 Families looking for a local way to enjoy the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday can take advantage of extended public skating hours at the Town of Oyster Bay’s three ice rinks. Two outdoor rinks — at Marjorie Post Park in Massapequa and Syosset-Woodbury Community Park — and the indoor Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center in Bethpage will all offer extended hours on, Jan. 15. “For a fun, family-friendly activity, residents can head to one of the town’s ice skating rinks on Martin Luther King Jr. Day,” said Councilwoman Laura Maier. “All three facilities will be offering special public sessions to give children

who are off from school something active and enjoyable to do.” On Jan. 15, each rink will be open for public skating from 1 to 3 p.m. and again from 4 to 6 p.m. The outdoor rink at Marjorie Post Park is located at Unqua and Merrick roads in Massapequa. Syosset-Woodbury Community Park’s rink is at 7900 Jericho Turnpike in Woodbury. The town’s indoor rink is located at Bethpage Community Park, 1001 Stewart Ave. in Bethpage. For more information — including youth hockey, figure skating, and general skating schedules — visit www.oysterbaytown.com/ice.

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January 14, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

New state bill expands property tax relief for families of fallen volunteer first responders cjames@liherald.com

Gov. Kathy Hochul has signed legislation expanding property tax relief for surviving spouses of volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers killed in the line of duty. The measure, sponsored by state Sen. Monica R. Martinez and Assemblyman Steve Stern, allows municipalities to opt into extending the existing property tax exemption to surviving spouses of volunteers who served between two and five years. Previously, only spouses of volunteers with at least five years of service were eligible to continue receiving the exemption, even though municipalities could lower the service requirement for the original benefit. Supporters said the change closes a gap in the law that left some families of fallen volunteers without continued tax relief. “Volunteers are driven by a love for their neighbors, and their families deserve that same compassion should that service take their lives,” Martinez said in a statement. She said the law gives local governments the ability to protect surviving spouses during a time of loss. “Our communities owe those who

protect our lives and homes meaningful support,” added Stern “This is a very important change that will help protect families of fallen firefighters,” said John F. Manzi, director of the Fire Districts of New York State and chairman of the West Babylon Board of Fire Commissioners.. “If not for this benefit these families would likely have to move out of state.” He noted that the Town of Babylon and the county are also doing all they can to help make life more affordable, particularly for volunteer firefighters. Babylon Town, for example, adopted a measure last year that gives volunteer firefighters preference in affordable housing programs. In Oyster Bay Town, volunteers also get real property tax breaks and the town offers discounts at various town facilities. Anything we can do to get people to stay on Long Island is a win win,” said Manzi. Eugene Perry, president of the Firefighters Association of the State of New York, said the legislation aligns surviving spouse benefits with earlier changes that reduced the service requirement for volunteer firefighters from five years to two. He said the update prevents families from losing

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access to tax relief because of inconsistencies in the law. Perry also called for additional reforms, including increased benefits under the Volunteer Firefighters’ Benefit Law for firefighters injured in the line of duty. The expanded property tax exemption is part of a broader legislative agenda led by Martinez this session focused on supporting fire and emer-

gency service agencies. Other proposals include increasing the volunteer firefighter and ambulance worker tax credit, creating a program to recruit military veterans into volunteer fire and emergency medical services, studying prevention strategies for lithium-ion battery fires, and requiring death benefits for volunteers be paid within 90 days of a claim filing.

Meet some local scholars... The following students were recently recognized for academic achievements and graduation at their respective colleges: • Chelsea Persaud of South Farmingdale, attending the New York Institute of Technology and studying nursing, was recently welcomed into the nursing profession with a pinning ceremony. Nursing school pinning ceremonies are a rite of passage celebrating the completion of students’ training as they graduate and go on to pursue careers as RNs. • James Nolan of Massapequa was recently named to the Dean’s List at Elmira College. •Anthony Halpin of Farmingdale was recently named to the Dean’s List at Pennsylvania Western University.

• The following students attending Kellenberg Memorial High School have earned Certified Financially Literate status through the W!se Financial Literacy Certification Program during Trimester 1 of the current school year: Matthew Cevallos-Nunez of Massapequa; Ella Clark of Massapequa Park; Lena Costanza of Massapequa; Ava DeMartino of Massapequa; Luke DeMicoli of Massapequa Park; Scarlet Harvey of Massapequa; Julia Lomonaco of Massapequa; Kamryn Moran of Massapequa Park; Ryleigh Pleines of Farmingdale; Joseph Seviroli of Massapequa; Justin Shatinsky of Massapequa Park; Alana Telehany of Massapequa Park; and Olivia Twomley of Massapequa Park.

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MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — January 14, 2026

By CAROLYN JAMES

*MEET THE 2026 HONOREES* REAL ESTATE AGENT

Baldassare (Baldo) LaRussa Licensed Real Estate Agent Keller Williams Realty

Kelly Killoren Bensimon

REAL ESTATE BROKER

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

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REAL ESTATE EXCELLENCE

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson DeSimone Real Estate Agency

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Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Douglas Elliman

James La Dolce

Vice President, Branch Manager Flushing Bank

TEAM LEADERSHIP Rachel King

COMMERCIAL CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY

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

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Chief Growth Officer Ackman Ziff Real Estate Group

CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT Rob Mannino

COMMUNITY IMPACT LEADERSHIP Gary Broxmeyer

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KRISTIN THORNE

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KELLY KILLOREN BENSIMON

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

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Joel Lipsky

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INDUSTRY IMPACT AND LEADERSHIP Jeff Schwartzberg, MBA

Managing Principal Premier Commercial Real Estate, LLC

RichnerLIVE’s fifith annual R.E.A.L. Awards will spotlight entrepreneurs, professionals, and visionaries in Long Island’s real estate and related industries who have achieved success in their respective roles while also being actively involved in community contributions and advocacy.

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January 14, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

SPECIAL AWARDS STRATEGIC VISIONARY IN LUXURY REAL ESTATE

Animals of Honor - The Dickin Medal and the creatures who served in war

“I’m honored to be recognized by The Herald and RichnerLIVE alongside so many leaders shaping the future of real estate. To me, real estate is about vision, storytelling, and creating lasting value this recognition is incredibly meaningful,” said Kelly. Kelly’s success is rooted in sharp negotiation skills, deep market knowledge, and an entrepreneurial mindset that bridges luxury, media, and investment.

Only one cat has ever received the medal. Simon was found wandering the Hong Kong dockyards in 1948 and smuggled aboard the HMS Amethyst. Known for leaving dead rats in sailors’ beds, Simon earned his medal in 1949 for eliminating a rat infestation and boosting morale during an attack. He later died from cannon shell injuries. Dogs, too, displayed extraordinary bravery. Jet, an Alsatian (German Shepherd) from Liverpool, rescued 50 people and assisted in saving 150 more during the London Blitz. Rob, a Border Collie, made more than 20 parachute descents with the British Special Air Service. Gander, a Newfoundland serving with the Canadian Army, picked up a thrown grenade during the Battle of Hong Kong in 1941 and ran

toward the enemy, sacrificing himself to save wounded soldiers. In more recent years, the medal has recognized modern service animals. Appollo, a German Shepherd with the New York Police Department, arrived at the World Trade Center 15 minutes after the Sept. 11 attacks and was honored on behalf of all 9/11 search-and-rescue dogs. Diesel, Belgian Malinois with French police, was killed during a 2015 counterterrorism raid in Paris. Lucca, a German Shepherd who served six years with the U.S. Marine Corps in Iraq and Afghanistan, lost a leg to an IED explosion. Their species differed, but their service did not. As the Dickin Medal reminds us, bravery does not require words — only devotion.

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

The Herald and RichnerLIVE are proud to announce that Kelly Killoren Bensimon will be recognized with the Strategic Visionary in Luxury Real Estate Award at the 2026 HERALD Real Estate Achievement & Leadership (R.E.A.L.) Awards, taking place on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at 99 Quaker Meeting House Road in n Farmingdale. This prestigious award celebratess Kelly Killoren Bensimon’s exceptional expertise in luxury real estate and her distinctive nctive ability to combine market insight with lifestyle driven strategy. With h extensive hands-on experience in New York City real estate, Kelly approaches each property not just as a transaction but as a story, carefully blending timing, branding, and market intelligence to create lasting value.

The Dickin Medal was awarded to 32 pigeons used during World War I and World War II.

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

2026

“Kelly “Kell Killoren Bensimon embodies the modern moder evolution of luxury real estate where insight, t strategy intersect,” said brand, and Amy Amato, Executive Director, RichnerLIVE. “Her ability to anticipate the market while elevating the client experience makes her a natural choice for this award.” The R.E.A.L. Awards celebrate leaders across the real estate and development community who are shaping Long Island and the greater New York region through innovation and vision. The evening will feature an exclusive honoree and sponsor reception, cocktail hour, dinner, and awards presentation. For more information about the R.E.A.L. Awards, visit https://www.richnerlive.com/

- Anna Graci

Photo Credit: MIH Global LLC

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MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — January 14, 2026

Pets, Pets, Pets...

The Dickin Medal, the World War II, paused afterward, and resumed followUnited Kingdom’s highest ing the Sept. 11 attacks. honor for animals in military In the medal’s first six conflict, has been awarded years, from 1943 to 1949, pi74 times, plus once in 2014 geons received most honors. to collectively honor all animals who served in the First During both world wars, World War. nearly 800,000 pigeons were The medal traces its oriused to carry messages, gins to Maria Dickin, a Lonsometimes flying as far as don social reformer who, in 600 miles. Stocked aboard the early 1900s, was appalled British aircraft, the birds by the conditions in which were released when planes JOANNE the city’s animals lived. One were hit, carrying vital locaANDERSON night, while nursing her tion information for rescue own sick puppy, she had an missions. epiphany: It was her destiny Among the earliest honto provide animals with free health care. orees was Winky, the first Dickin Medal Dickin’s plan — to care for the “sick and recipient, who saved the crew of a British injured animals of the poor” — was wide- bomber that crashed into the North Sea in ly mocked. Veterinarians dismissed her, 1942. With no radio transmission and little and she was cast off as a crazy old woman. hope, the crew released Winky, who flew Undeterred, she opened her first clinic in 120 miles home with their location. Within a cellar in 1917 and trained her own vet- 15 minutes, the Royal Air Force pinpointerinarians. By the 1940s, her organization, ed the crash site, and the crew survived. the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals, Another pigeon, Commando, completed or PDSA, had grown into one of Britain’s more than 90 missions carrying “crucial largest animal care institutions. intelligence,” earning his medal in 1945. Around that time, Dickin devised other Gustav delivered the first report of D-Day idea: honoring animals used in war. It was to the British mainland after flying 150 born of genuine affection but also served miles through severe weather. to drew attention to the PDSA’s work. In Horses were also recognized. Olga, Up1943, the foundation established the Dick- start, Regal and Warrior received Dickin in Medal to recognize animals’ “conspicu- Medals during World War II, two for ous gallantry or devotion to duty while controlling traffic and two for remaining serving in war.” calm amid chaos. Olga survived a railway The small bronze medallion, inscribed bomb blast that killed four soldiers and dewith the words “For Gallantry” and “We stroyed half her stable yet continued her Also Serve,” was awarded throughout duties.

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

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January 14, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

STEPPING OUT

Join Mickey and friends on their latest adventure By Karen Bloom

Comic showcase

Photos courtesy Feld Entertainment

Search for Tinker Bell through stunning worlds.

elcome the New Year with another dose of that wonderful world of Disney. The latest Disney ice extravaganza — “Mickey’s Search Party” — arrives at UBS Arena in Elmont to the delight of families who can’t get enough of their favorite Disney moments. Audiences can relive some of the iconic characters and stories — classic and new, now through Jan. 19. Families embark on a quest with Mickey Mouse and pals as they follow Captain Hook’s treasure map for clues to find Tinker Bell after he attempts to capture her magic. This adventure delivers compelling storytelling — so be prepared to join this magical search and help unlock an epic • Now through Jan. 19, journey in a fast-paced, times vary • Tickets start at $35, available family-friendly production at ticketmaster.com or that follows the search disneyonice.com for Tinker Bell through • UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead stunning worlds. Tpke., Elmont With top-level skating, daring aerial stunts and memorable moments from beloved Disney tales, this all-out celebration delivers nonstop music, mischief and memories. Journey across the Marigold Bridge with Miguel from Disney Pixar’s “Coco” into the magnificent and mystical Land of the Dead. The vibrantly colorful performance involves skeletons atop sway poles dancing over the audience in a beautiful cultural celebration of family. Travel to the wintry world of Arendelle and sing along with Elsa as video projection creates a kaleidoscope of crystals to help build her ice palace. Watch Stitch crash the action with mischievous surprises. Witness Belle lift into the sky as everyone marvels as the enchanted chandelier comes to life high over the ice. Also observe the power of teamwork when Buzz Lightyear, Woody and Jessie recruit the Green Army Men for a daring rescue in Andy’s room. Sail away with Moana on her daring voyage across the ocean and bravely encounter the fiery wrath of Te Ka. Plus, you’ll laugh hysterically as the hilarious pirates flip, tumble, and twist on tumble tracks, stilts and more in an effort to showcase their talents for Captain Hook. And even more fun awaits as the search party becomes an allout magical celebration. These beloved characters are, of course, joined by Mickey and his crew: Minnie, Donald and Goofy.As always, the atmosphere is electric from the get-go. “When Mickey first comes out, it’s always a big moment for everyone,” says ensemble skater Tess Terpos. Certainly so for Terpos, who’s thrilled to step into the spotlight with the rest of the Disney skaters. It’s a magical moment for her — every time. Ice skating been central to Terpos’ world, since her childhood in Maryland. After years of devotion to her craft — countless hours of practice, grueling

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

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

competitions and performances — the 28-year-old Terpos, a Towson University alum, found her way to the World of Mouse when she caught her break in 2021 with Disney On Ice. Now an established ensemble member with the tour, Terpos lives that Disney magic every day. “Disney on Ice is so truly special and we with our audiences see that ‘magic’ come to life in truly personal way. I have found a home here. It’s a great place to be, surrounded all these special talented skaters and creative people who are as passionate as me.” Her fondness for the stories and characters goes back to childhood. “I loved ‘The Little Mermaid,’ Jasmine, all the princesses. I’d watch them over and over. There are even photos of me dressed up as princesses.” Known for her classic yet playful approach on the ice, Terpos credits her strong foundation in basic skating skills for her versatility as a performer One of her most memorable moments came on opening night of her first professional show, when she was so overwhelmed with excitement that she cried as soon as she stepped off the ice. “Skating with Disney On Ice is a dream come true for me,” she says. “It’s so special and the connection with our audiences is amazing.” And everyone is right there with her. “There are so many interactive elements where audiences get involved up close with the characters. That’s what makes it so special. We need the audience to help solve clues to get Tinkerbell back.” As with her fellow cast members, Terpos’ skating skills enhance the high level of athleticism that is the hallmark of these spectacles. Solos, pairs and fast-paced ensemble skating with highflying jumps add to the appeal of the stories the audience knows so well. Among the highlights, Terpos talents are on full display as she takes on the role of a napkin during the aerial sequence in the “Be Our Guest” scene from “Beauty and the Beast.” “Napkins, forks, knives and spoons fly into the air. It’s really special and they [audiences] love it.” In fact, there’s not a moment that wouldn’t be described as “special.” “The show has something for everyone. It’s about magic and memories,” Terpos adds for emphasis. That Disney magic: it’s all around us.

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

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

MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — January 14, 2026

Epic moments on ice

January 14, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD JAN

Everybody Loves Raymond: Celebrating 30 Years

Visit the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame for its latest exhibit. It features the 70-foot-wide set from the show’s recent 30th anniversary TV special on CBS, never before on display. The exhibit (designed by LIMEHOF Creative Director and renowned designer Kevin O’Callaghan) is a completely immersive experience. Visitors can walk into the world of the Barone family and explore their home through original studio sets, which include the living room, the kitchen, and other areas of the house. Also see a variety of iconic items, including original clothing, the famous fork and spoon, and the Christmas toaster, among other classic items from the series. Multimedia clips, including behind the scenes and rare out-takes and a range of videos related to the show, will play in LIMEHOF’s surround sound theater. • Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook • Time: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. • Contact: limusichalloffame. org or (631) 689-5888

JAN

Stop by Simpson United Methodist Church’s Thrift Shop for some unique finds.

St. Mary’s Thrift Shop Stop by St. Mary’s Thrift Shop to start your new year with found treasures. Choose from collectibles, glassware, clothing and other gently used items.

• Where: St. Mary’s, 175 Broadway, Amityville (enter from rear parking lot) • Time: 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. • Contact: (631) 464-4899

Rebirth.” Skilled operatives traveling to a remote island to secure life-saving DNA from dinosaurs make a sinister discovery that’s been hidden for decades. Registration is not required. • Where: 116 Merritts Road, Farmingdale • Time: 10 a.m.-noon and 1:30-4 p.m. • Contact: farmingdalelibrary. org or (516) 249-9090

JAN

‘Cold Beer on a Saturday Night’

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

Thrift Shop

• Where: 30 Locust Ave., Amityville • Time: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. • Contact: (631) 789-2569

JAN

CALENDAR

Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out

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

Sadness, Anger, Disgust and Fear. Kids learn to recognize emotions and explore ways that we express and manage our own emotions. With opening weekend activities to celebrate the arrival of this traveling exhibit. • Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

Comic showcase

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

mom of two boys, has been dubbed “an uppercrust Roseanne.” She loves to tell stories about her adventures (mostly survival tales) with her husband and kids. • Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre • Time: 8 p.m. • Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444

ScribeCraft

Stop by Vanderbilt Museum for a four-part creative adventure through the world of traditional writing arts. Each session explores a different ancient skill — from making your own writing materials to shaping the pages, scrolls, and bindings that once carried stories across centuries. Every workshop stands alone, offering a fun handson project you can jump into at any point, and together they form a complete path from raw materials to finished works you craft yourself. Whether you join us for one session or experience the entire series, ScribeCraft invites you to slow down, experiment, and rediscover the joy of making something meaningful with your own hands. $40, $36 members. Registration required. • Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport • Time: TBD, also Feb. 15, March 28, April 25

• Contact: vanderbiltmuseum.org or call (631) 854-5579

JAN

Let Freedom Ring with MLK

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

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

JAN

Farmingdale Library Cinema

Stop by Farmingdale Public Library for a showing of 2025’s scifi thriller “Jurassic World:

Plainedge Public Library Board of Trustees meet

Plainedge Public Library Board hold its next meeting. All are welcome to attend. • Where: 1060 Hicksville Road, N. Massapequa • Time: 7 p.m. • Contact: plainedgelibrary.org or (516) 735-4210

Indigo Girls

Experience Indigo Girls like never before, with the Massapequa Philharmonic. Conducted by David Bernard, hear Indigo Girls’ beloved hits reimagined with sweeping new arrangements. • Where: Tilles Center, LIU Post, 720 Northern Blvd., Greenvale • Time: 7:30 -9:30 p.m. • Contact: tillescenter.org or (516) 927-7374

Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group This group meets weekly, at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9592, in person with Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties.

• Where: 55 Hickory Lane, Levittown • Time: 7:30-9 p.m. • Contact: Steve at (631) 3320552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808 (All calls are confidential.)

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.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

SUNDAY, JANUARY 18

•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631) 789-2569.

MONDAY, JANUARY 19

•Massapequa Fire District Monthly Work Session: 7:30 p.m., District Administration Building, 1 Brooklyn Ave., Massapequa. For more information, call (516) 798-9849.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 20

•Plainedge School District Board of Education Meeting: 7:30 p.m., High School Cafeteria, Plainedge High School,

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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21

•Plainedge Public Library Board of Trustees Meeting: 7 p.m., Plainedge Public Library, 1060 Hicksville Road, N. Massapequa. For more information, please call (516) 735-4210. • Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m. Free weekly, virtual meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631) 3320552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808. All calls are confidential.

Calendar items are printed for non-profit organizations, as space permits, or when an event, service or information is being sponsored by a profit-making organization without charge to readers. Submit items to us at Richner Communications, attn: Post Editor, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530; or email: dconsola@ liherald.com at least two - three weeks prior to the publication date in which the item must appear. Sorry, but open-ended requests without the specific dates of the events are not acceptable. While we make every attempt to accommodate each request, we cannot guarantee publication of any items. For more information, call 516-569-4000.

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•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631)-789-2569.

241 Wyngate Dr., Massapequa. For more information, call (516) 992-7450. •Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m., Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9592, 55 Hickory Lane, Levittown. Free weekly, in-person meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631) 332-0552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808. All calls are confidential.

MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — January 14, 2026

THURSDAY, JANUARY 15

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January 14, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

Public Notices

LMAS1

Town of Oyster Bay Oyster Bay / Zoning Board of Appeals TOWN HALL, AUDREY AVENUE, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK 11771-1592 TELEPHONE: (516) 624-6232 – FAX: (516) 624-6149 RITA BYRNE, Chairwoman – LOIS S C H M I T T, Vi c e Chair woman – KATHLEEN MULLIGAN REBECCA M. ALESIA –LISA CICCOLELLA – FLORESTANO GIRARDI – BRIAN GRIFFIN ********************** ********************** PUBLIC HEARING CALENDAR NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING BY THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 246, Section 246-12 of the Code of the Town of Oyster Bay, notice is hereby given that the Zoning Board of Appeals has scheduled a public meeting, which will take place in the Town Hall Meeting Room, Audrey Avenue, Oyster Bay, New York, on JANUARY 22, 2026, at 7:00 P. M., to consider the following appeals: BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS APPEAL NO. 25-430 MASSAPEQUA PARK THOMAS WEITZEL: Variance to construct waterfall feature having less rear yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. N/s/o Thorn Pl., 150 ft. W/o Avenue Louise, a/k/a 4 Thorn Place, Massapequa Park, NY ------------------------APPEAL NO. 25-383 MASSAPEQUA CAROL HIRST: (A) Variance to allow existing multilevel deck and gazebo having less side yard setback, rear yard setback, exceeding maximum build-

ing coverage and gross floor area than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Amend Specific Plan as presented for Appeal No. 59-739 and granted by Decision of the Zoning Board of Appeals, dated August 27, 1959. W/s/o Tidewater Ave., 238.84 ft. S/o S. Bay Dr., a/k/a 31 Tidewater Avenue, Massapequa, NY -----------------------APPEAL NO. 25-390 MASSAPEQUA JOSEPH MOTTOLA: (A) Variance construct one story addition and allow existing cellar entrance having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to construct one story addition having less aggregate side yards and exceeding maximum building coverage than permitted by Ordinance; also encroachment of eaves and gutters. N/s/o Cherry St., 280 ft. E/o Seaford Ave., a/k/a 15 Cherry Street, Massapequa, NY ---------------------APPEAL NO. 25-392 MASSAPEQUA MICHELLE TAYLOR: (A) Variance to construct rear one story addition having less rear yard setback, side yard setback and exceeding maximum building coverage than permitted by Ordinance; also encroachment of eaves and gutters. (B) Variance to allow existing shed having less side/front yard setback (New Hampshire Avenue) than permitted by Ordinance. (C) Variance to allow existing oil tank having less side/front yard setback (New Hampshire Avenue) than permitted by Ordinance. (D) Variance to allow existing 5 ft. high and 6 ft. high PVC fence exceeding maximum height across side/front yard (New Hampshire Av-

enue) than permitted by Ordinance. SW/ cor. of Doris Pl. & New Hampshire Ave., a/k/a 9 Doris Place, Massapequa, NY ------------------------APPEAL NO. 25-394 MASSAPEQUA CHRISTOPHER EAGAR: (A) Variance to construct lifted and reconstructed dwelling on new foundation having less average front yard setback, exceeding maximum height, maximum number of stories, maximum building coverage and gross floor area than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to construct rear platform and second story balcony having less rear yard setback than permitted by Ordinance; also encroachment of eaves and gutters. (C) Amend Specific Plan as presented for Appeal No. 18-316 and granted by Decision of the Zoning Board of Appeals, dated July 26, 2018. W/s/o Alhambra Rd., 291.86 ft. N/o Saltaire Pl., a/k/a 56 Alhambra Road, Massapequa, NY ----------------------Z O N I N G B OARD OF APPEALS MEETING OF 01/22/26 ----------------------APPEAL NO. 25-399 MASSAPEQUA LAURA SEYLAR: (A) Variance to allow existing second kitchen in a one-family dwelling for use as a PARENT/CHILD residence. (B) Variance to reconstruct a 40.8 ft. by 35.2 ft. two story dwelling on partial new and partial existing foundation having less average front yard setback, aggregate side yards, exceeding maximum building coverage and gross floor area than permitted by Ordinance; also encroachment of eaves and gutters.

W/s/o West Dr., S/o North Dr., a/k/a 13 West Drive, Massapequa, NY ---------------------APPEAL NO. 25-402 MASSAPEQUA STEPHANIE EINIG: (A) Variance to allow existing shed having less side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to install pool equipment having less front yard setback and side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (C) Variance to install in-ground swimming pool having less side yard setback and rear yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. N/s/o Peconic Dr., 544.44 ft. W/o Cedar Dr., a/k/a 39 Peconic Drive, Massapequa, NY ----------------------APPEAL NO. 25-426 MASSAPEQUA ROBERT NICHOLS: (A) Variance to construct swimming pool having less side yard setback and rear yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to install pool equipment having less front yard setback and side yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. W/s/o W. Shore Dr., 300 ft. S/o Suffolk Rd., a/k/a 59 Shore Drive, Massapequa, NY ---------------------APPEAL NO. 25-468 MASSAPEQUA WILLIAM & MARGARET SCHLATTER: (A) Variance to construct garage extension and portico having less front yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to construct second floor addition having less aggregate side yards than permitted by Ordinance. (C) Variance to construct garage extension, second story addition, second story decks, portico and rear deck exceeding maximum building

coverage than permitted by Ordinance. (D) Variance to construct garage extension, second story addition, second story decks and rear deck exceeding maximum gross floor area than permitted by Ordinance. E/s/o Forest Ave., 834.24 ft. S/o Garfield Pl., a/k/a 127 Forest Avenue, Massapequa, NY ----------------------APPEAL NO. 04-498 - AMENDMENT N O RT H M A S S APEQUA JOANN LOBELLO: (A) Amend Decision of Zoning Board of Appeals, dated November 4, 2004 in order to Amend the Declaration of Restrictive Covenants to indicate a change in occupancy while still maintaining a Parent/Child relationship. (B) Extend the Special Use Permit to maintain an existing second kitchen in a one-family dwelling for use as a Parent/ Child residence. N/s/o N. Poplar St., 225 ft. W/o N. Bay Ave., a/k/a 247 N. Poplar Street, N. Massapequa, NY ---------------------APPEAL NO. 25-400 NORTH MASSAPEQUA JLP & ASSOCIATES INC.: Variance to construct new dwelling on subdivided lot having less width of lot at street, width of lot from front property line to required rear yard and lot area than permitted by Ordinance. PARCEL A N/s/o N. Hickory St., 420 ft. E/o N. Summit Dr., a/k/a 147 N. Hickory Street, North Massapequa, NY -----------------------APPEAL NO. 25-401 NORTH MASSAPEQUA JLP & ASSOCIATES INC.: Variance to construct new dwelling on subdivided lot

having less width of lot at street, width of lot from front property line to required rear yard and lot area than permitted by Ordinance. PARCEL B N/s/o N. Hickory St., 420 ft. E/o N. Summit Dr., a/k/a 147 N. Hickory Street, North Massapequa, NY ------------------------Z O N I N G B OARD OF APPEALS MEETING OF 01/22/26 ------------------------APPEAL NO. 25-489 NORTH MASSAPEQUA BARRY QUINN: (A) Variance to allow existing detached garage having less side yard setback and rear yard setback than permitted by Ordinance. (B) Variance to allow existing detached garage, roofed over deck and enclosed entry exceeding maximum building coverage than permitted by Ordinance. W/s/o Rutland Rd., 80.40 ft. N/o N. Pine St., a/k/a 3 Rutland Road, North Massapequa, NY -----------------------JANUARY 12, 2026 BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK 26-5 1/14

Notice of formation of Flawlyss LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of St ate of Ne w York (SSNY ) on 12/17/2025 O f f i c e l o c at i on , County of Nassau. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a process served to: F l aw ly ss L LC , 5 Dougherty St, Glen Cove NY 11542 Purpose: any lawful act. 25-315. 12/24,31, 1/7, 14, 21, 28

Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-0340-25138860 for liquor, b e e r, w i n e , a n d cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor, beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 1027 Northern Blvd, Roslyn, NY 11576, County of Nassau, for on pre m i s e s consumption at Landmark Restaurant Inc. 26-1. 1/7, 14

Notice of Self Storage Sale Please take notice Safeguard Self St or a g e # 1 9 0 1 1 3 located at 6000 Sunr is e Hig hway Massapequa NY 11758 intends to hold a sale of the property stored in the below listed Storage Spaces. The public sale shall occur as an online auction via www. stor age t re asu re s . com on 1/27/2026 at 10:30AM. Unless listed b elow, t he contents consist of household goods,

Notice of Formation of XLAB82 LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of St ate of Ne w York ( S SN Y ) on 12/18/2025 Office Location, County of Nassau. SSNY has been desginated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a process served to: XLAB82 LLC, 82 Park hi l l Ave, Massap equa, NY 11758. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 25-317. 12/24, 31, 1/7, 14, 21, 28

furnishings and garage essentials. Vena Silverstein unit #2449; John McCabe unit #3321. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. See manager for details. 26-2. 1/7, 14 Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-0240-25139512 for beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 25 Cuttermill Road, Un i t 8 / 9 , G r e at Neck, NY 11021, County of Nassau, for on pre m i s e s consumption at Basta Catering LLC. 26-6 1/14, 21 Notice of Application for Authority A D M O RT L L C filed an Application for Authority with t h e N e w Yo r k Department of State on Nove mb e r 6 , 2025. The LLC was organized in the State of New Jersey on March 11, 2021. The county within New York State in which the office of the LLC is to be located is Nassau County. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be ser ved, and the address to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process is 316 Fulton Avenue, Apt. 7, Hempstead, NY 11550. The address of the office of the LLC in its jurisdiction of formation is 912 Cedar Bridge Avenue, #7, Brick, NJ 08723. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act or activity. 26-7 1/14, 21, 28, 2/4, 11, 18

S1 01/15

Employment

CLASSIFIED

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

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

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

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

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

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

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MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — January 14, 2026

HERALD

January 14, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

S2 01/15

Homes

HERALD

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

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The Best of the Best

A zoning variance for a bigger den?

Q. I wanted to add on to the den on the side of my house. The den has been there since 1930. The problem I’m having is that if I want to make the addition so that it’s in alignment with the current den, the side distance to my property line is too close, by 12 inches, according to my building department. They say that I have to match the code requirement that was adopted in 1938, so instead of having a straight wall going all the way back, I either need to make a jog in the wall or go for a zoning variance. It just doesn’t make sense. I’m not adding a monster-sized addition, just 10 feet by 10 feet on the side of my house, behind tall hedges. My neighbor doesn’t mind, so what can I do about this? A. Not much, except decide whether you want a ridiculous-looking room with a jog in the wall or want to spend the money and time to go through the zoning variance process. When I see cases like this, I understand the intent of the law, but not the “spirit” of the law. The intent is to prevent the construction of buildings too close to a properonte eeper ty line, based on historical catastrophes such as the London fire and the Chicago fire, both of which saw hundreds of lives lost and tens of thousands of buildings destroyed, mainly because of their closeness to one another and their ability to burn easily. We live in a modern age in which materials have been tested, analyzed, certified and regulated to limit flame spread, and communities have been set up with strict guidelines to leave spaces between buildings for safety and appearance. But knowing, or not remembering, this, communities may invoke the strictness of the law like a stern punishment, or look at the separate conditions and merits of each case, deciding that your straight wall versus a jogged wall isn’t going to hurt anyone and, being located on the side or behind your house, isn’t going to detract from the character of the community. Some building departments have been given the flexibility to make these decisions, to avoid throwing the baby out with the bathwater, and have the authority to give approval for minor issues. Some municipalities have even gone so far as to pass ordinances allowing the discretion of building departments to allow for the alignment of built structures, previously approved, on the first story. It makes sense not to put homeowners through an unnecessary hearing process, sometimes costing thousands of dollars and many months of delay, just so they can have a straight wall. Allowing alignment with a previously approved part of a building isn’t the same as having a flammable wall too close to a property line or another building. In the long run, a variance will be worth it. Otherwise the weird wall shift won’t be understood or be beneficial to you. Good luck!

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

S3 01/15

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January 14, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

HERALD

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S4 01/15

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NEED A CAR? Find it in the HERALD Classifieds.

Answers to todAy’s puzzle

oPinions

ope Leo’s decision to accept the resignation of Cardinal Timothy Dolan, effective in the next several weeks, has significance for the entire New York metropolitan area. Going back to the 19th century, the archbishop of New York has played an often outsized role in the life of the city, with an influence extending beyond Catholics and beyond the city itself, into the suburbs. There was Archbishop John Hughes, in the 1860s, mobilizing support to protect PETER St. Patrick’s Cathedral from KinG threats by the Know Nothings to burn it down. In the mid-20th century, Cardinal Francis Spellman spoke out about national issues and against what he viewed as remnants of anti-Catholicism. He met regularly with government, political and business leaders, which led friends as well as critics to label him “the American Pope” and St. Patrick’s “the Powerhouse.”

Cardinal John O’Connor, who held the position from 1984 to 2000, came from a working-class and military background. He mastered the art of communicating through the media, taking outspoken stands on various issues such as workers’ rights in New York and human rights in Ireland and, most significantly, working extensively to strengthen interfaith relations with the many other religions mixed into the city’s ecumenical melting pot. Particularly memorable was O’Connor’s close friendship with Mayor Ed Koch and their joint efforts against antisemitism, including a popular book they coauthored. Also meaningful was a television special on which O’Connor and Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel decried the evil of antisemitism and all religious bigotry. Personally, I had a strong friendship with O’Connor, highlighted by his refusal to back down to pressure from the British government when its consulate urged him not to review the 1985 St. Patrick’s Day Parade because I served as its grand marshal. O’Connor’s funeral, at St. Patrick’s in

May 2000 — attended by countless luminaries, including President Bill Clinton and first lady Hillary Clinton, and future President George W. Bush and future first lady Laura Bush, befitted an acknowledged national leader. Dolan was chosen by Pope Benedict in 2009 to lead New York’s Catholics, and, though he was born and raised in St. Louis, he immediately established himself as a true New Yorker. My wife, Rosemary, and I got to know Dolan well, and are proud to call him our friend. We were privileged to have him as a guest for dinner in our Seaford home, and attended numerous events with him, including Midnight Mass, on Christmas Eve; private lunches at his residence, with retired New York City Police Commissioner Ray Kelly and his wife, Veronica; and Dolan’s annual St. Patrick’s Day brunches, replete with a cross-section of elected officials including Mayor Eric Adams, Gov. Kathy Hochul and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman as well as religious leaders such as Rockville Centre Bishop John Barres and Rabbi Joe Potasnik, of

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

the New York Board of Rabbis. Now that he has reached the mandatory retirement age of 75 and the pope has accepted his retirement, Dolan’s omnipresence in New York, and his unfailing sense of humor, will be sorely missed. He was always there, for those of all religions, especially in times of need. I distinctly recall being with him at meetings with officials from the Department of Homeland Security, trying to obtain funding to protect houses of worship from terrorist attacks. Similarly, I remember discussing with Dolan and Potasnik strategies for requesting Covid relief funds for religious entities from the Trump administration. I particularly recall Dolan being a lone voice speaking out on behalf of the police during the violent demonstrations in the summer of 2020. Dolan has been a gift to New York. Fortunately, he has chosen to remain here, and take up residency in a Manhattan parish. I wish him the best of health, happiness and peace, and congratulations on a job well done. An era has passed. Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.

Mets and Yankees fans know plenty about chopped liver

’m sure that at some point in your life, someone has uttered an expression that you’d never heard or didn’t understand. There are many of these weird turns of phrase, but my favorite is, “What am I, chopped liver?” It may have ethnic overtones, but it has been used by countless comedians over the decades. No one can pinpoint exactly when the chopped-liver inquiry was born, but it is said to have emanated JERRY from Jewish families in the 1930s. KREMER Its purpose was to make it clear to someone that just like chopped liver is a side dish at a dinner, nobody wants to be treated like a side dish in life. I heard the phrase for the first time at a family dinner, and then I heard the late, great comedian Jimmy Durante growl, “I ain’t chopped liver.” I can think of a few people and institutions that I can apply the comparison

to, and you’ll better understand how wonderfully it fits. Let’s start with the apparent attitudes of the owners of the Mets and Yankees toward the teams’ fans. There are no people more loyal to the cause of winning sports in New York than Yankees and Mets followers. We pack the teams’ parks throughout the season, pay ridiculous sums of money for tickets, food and souvenirs, and in the end, the Mets’ Steve Cohen and the Steinbrenners, who own the Yankees, treat us like, yup, chopped liver. All season long we slavishly follow every on-field play and offfield rumor, hoping they’ll be gameclinchers or season-changers. We argue endlessly with Dodgers and Red Sox fans about whose team is the best. Every September, we hope and pray that our squad will make it to the playoffs. We shell out even more ridiculous sums of money to attend playoff game, and pray for the miracle that will propel our Yankees or Mets into the World Series. To add to our collective chopped-liver misery, during the winter we check our

phones way too often, in the hope that our team will make some trade or announce some surprise contract that will guarantee our October ticket to the Series. Late last year, the headlined departures of the Mets’ Brandon Nimmo, Edwin Diaz and Pete Alonso were like a collective lump of coal in our Christmas stocking. To show what patsies we are, a couple of months from now, when spring training starts, we’ll ignore all the misery we’ve suffered and begin a new season of hope. We’ve screamed about the Mets losing favorite player after favorite player to other teams, and want to believe that something big will happen. Cohen says he is constantly looking for new stars and has an open checkbook, but he’s now concentrating on his new casino license and a neighboring soccer stadium. Mets fans? Chopped liver. And the Yankees owners? During the winter, the Steinbrenners sign as many players as they can find, but the big moves, like signing another front-line pitcher or Cody Bellinger (maybe) don’t

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

seem to be happening right now. According to Forbes and Sportico, the Yankees are valued at $8.2 billion to $8.4 billion, making them the most valuable franchise in baseball history. They claim they’re a break-even company, but their parent company, Yankee Global Enterprises, is estimated to make as much as $150 million annually. We all know what would have happened if George Steinbrenner were still alive. The Yankees would resemble the Los Angeles Dodgers, who have an AllStar at virtually every position. But the Yankees management tells us that baseball is a business, and the sport’s luxury tax forces it to maintain a “tighter bottom line.” The counterpoint to that argument is what another baseball team owner told me: “When you win a World Series, there’s a gusher of new money to be made.” For now, though, if a friend or relative asks you what the chopped-liver line refers to, tell them it’s all about being a Mets or Yankees fan. Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. Comments about this column? jkremer@ liherald.com.

MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — January 14, 2026

Cardinal Dolan retires, and an era has passed

Herald editorial

Massapequa

HERALD January 14, 2026 — MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST

pOsT

Ira L. Cahn - Founder Established 1951

Incorporating Massapequa Post in 2024 CaroLyn James Associate Publisher / Editor

Donna Consola JessiCa Kleiman maryann Heins Multi Media Marketing Consultants offiCe 2 Endo Boulevard Garden City, NY 11530 Phone: (516) 569-4000 Fax: (516) 569-4942 Web: www.liherald.com E-mail: masseditor@liherald.com Copyright © 2026 Richner Communications, Inc.

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS Cliff Richner Publisher, 1982-2018 Robert Richner Edith Richner Publishers, 1964-1987 ■ sTUarT rIChner Publisher ■ Jeffrey Bessen

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Long Island’s priorities are bipartisan

he message that emerged from last Friday’s annual Long Island Association State of the Region breakfast was focused on ideas that matter deeply to everyone who calls Long Island home: affordable housing, clean water, reliable energy, fiscal responsibility and caring for the most vulnerable. The event brought together voices from across the political spectrum: Gov. Kathy Hochul, U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer, State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, just to name a few. Unsurprisingly, with Hochul and Blakeman widely expected to face each other in November’s gubernatorial election, some of the discussion previewed the themes that will likely define the campaign ahead. But the most striking takeaway was not the contrast in party labels — it was the amount of common ground. Long Island’s growth and success were recurring themes. LIA President Matt Cohen noted that since the organization was founded in 1926, the region’s population has increased by 900 percent, transforming what was once largely a bedroom community into a diverse economic engine with world-class schools, hospitals and tourist destinations. Schumer, reflecting on decades of visiting every corner of the state, noted

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letters We need the arts ‘now more than ever’ To the Editor: I read Robert Scott’s op-ed last week, “The arts on Long Island are for you,” regarding the need for regional arts infrastructure while inviting Long Islanders into the art world. I so appreciate this outreach, as I feel Long Island and the country as a whole need the arts now more than ever. As a resident of Massapequa, I’m currently in the “planting phase” of establishing an Arts Center of Massapequa here. The Long Island Arts Alliance’s data on the $330 million economic impact of Long Island arts is the backbone of our current pitch. We are building the ACM for many reasons: to bridge the “infrastructure gap” Scott identified, to ensure that our town can finally capture its fair share of state funding, and to remind our community members that art and community aren’t extreme luxuries —

that when Long Island does well, all of New York does well. Water infrastructure emerged as a point of broad agreement. In her remarks, Hochul previewed a proposed five-year, $3.75 billion investment in that infrastructure, calling it historic. On an island where drinking water comes from a sole-source aquifer, protecting water quality is not optional — it is existential. Upgrading sewers, improving wastewater treatment and replacing outdated septic systems are investments that will pay dividends for generations, regardless of who occupies the governor’s office. Blakeman pointed to Nassau County’s public safety record and quality of life, citing national recognition as one of the most desirable places to live. Housing affordability dominated much of the conversation, particularly as younger New Yorkers struggle to remain in the region. DiNapoli referenced a recent report from his office showing that Gen Z and millennials are being squeezed by high housing costs and limited entry-level job opportunities — a troubling trend for a region that depends on retaining its workforce and future leaders. Romaine underscored that affordable housing cannot be addressed in isolation; it requires smart planning and significant investment in infrastructure such as roads and sewers to support new

development. Energy infrastructure, including offshore wind, food security, support for safety-net hospitals and maintaining a strong social safety net, was also part of the discussion. These are foundational responsibilities of government. People cannot go hungry. Communities cannot thrive without reliable health care. Economic growth means little if it leaves large segments of the population behind. What was perhaps most encouraging was DiNapoli’s reminder of fiscal discipline. Even in a relatively strong economy, uncertainty looms as federal funding decisions evolve. Thoughtful, responsible budgeting — looking not just at the next election cycle but years down the road — is itself a bipartisan value. This election year will bring sharp rhetoric and clear contrasts. That is inevitable, and healthy, in a democracy. But the ideas discussed at the State of the Region breakfast should not become casualties of partisanship. They are good ideas — the kinds of ideas that all elected officials, at every level of government, should be eager to pursue. All of the state’s leaders must resist the temptation to govern by party line alone. The issues highlighted at the breakfast must remain priorities, regardless of which way the political winds blow.

opinions

my Goodman, an intrepid journalist and a Long Island native, explained after a recent screening of a documentary about her that she is “committed to independent media being the oxygen to a democratic society.” The documentary “Steal This Story, Please!” had its premier at the DC/DOX film festival in Washington, D.C., in June, and has been shown at other film festivals, at which it has also received awards. and now she was “here on Long Island!” she exclaimed after karL the documentary grossman was featured last month as the opening-night presentation of the Hamptons Doc Fest. Being on Long Island was “really a thrill,” Goodman said following the showing at Bay Street Theater in Sag Harbor. She is a 1975 Bay Shore High School graduate, and after graduating from Harvard with an anthropology degree, she went to work at WBaI, the listener-sponsored radio station in new york City, part of the Pacifica network. It was there that Goodman co-founded and became — and still is — host and

executive producer of “Democracy now!” It began as a radio program, and subsequently expanded to television, too. Goodman has not only been a journalist on radio and TV, but has authored or co-authored books including “Standing Up to the Madness,” “The exception to the rulers,” “The Silenced Majority” and “Democracy now! Twenty years Covering the Movements Changing america,” published in 2017. as the website for it then related: “In 1996 amy Goodman began hosting a show on Pacifica radio called Democracy now! to focus on the issues and movements that are too often ignored by the corporate media. Today Democracy now! is the largest public media collaboration in the U.S., broadcasting on over 1,400 public television and radio stations around the world, with millions accessing it online at democracynow.org.” a documentary is different than a book. I’ve authored books and also written and presented documentaries, and as a journalism professor at SUny Old Westbury, I taught for years a course called “Documentary: Theories and Techniques.” as John Grierson, the Scottish filmmaker credited with coining the term “documentary” in 1926, explained, a documentary focuses on an “actuality”

his 1975 Bay Shore High grad is seen and heard by millions on public media.

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

Venezuela: America’s latest quagmire To the editor: The United States’ adventures in Iran, Iraq and Libya have long been forgotten by those we trust to lead our country. With our move into Venezuela, we just gave China the political and moral approval to “liberate” Taiwan. russian President Vladimir Putin’s promise to restore the Soviet Union to its former glory has been reinforced and justified by our government’s recent actions. Venezuela is twice the size of Cali-

— capturing and showcasing the real-life issues of real people, with the “original” people involved, and “original” scenes, conveying a truer picture of reality, he felt, than actors and a set could provide. That’s what the documentary about Goodman does. It starts with her trying to question Wells Griffith, the representative of the first Trump administration at a 2018 United nations climate conference in Poland. She asks Griffith about President Trump’s claim that climate change is a hoax. Griffith scrambles away up a series of stairways, with Goodman keeping up, and charges her with “harassment.” “a reporter asking you a question,” Goodman responds, “is not harassment.” The documentary then shifts to Goodman’s reporting on the 1991 killing of more than 200 independence protesters in east Timor by Indonesian troops, and shows her and fellow journalist allan nairn badly beaten. It includes her arrest, with other journalists, in a police sweep of an anti-war demonstration at the 2008 republican national Convention in St. Paul, Minn. It presents scenes of Goodman covering native americans in Standing rock, n.D., in 2017, protesting the Dakota access Pipeline, which brought with it

fornia, with a population of 30 million, and has had one of the highest crime/murder rates in the world. american oil companies and their employees will need protection to operate the oil fields. We already produce more oil than we need. Unlike america, the rest of the world is moving away from fossil fuels, especially China. We won’t sell to russia or China. Where is the market that will buy the oil and generate the billions of dollars required to upgrade and protect our “interests” in Venezuela? What is our government’s plan to move forward? I fear that we are heading into the abyss as our moral compass points more toward power and self-entitlement than to compassion and lifting those who need it most. We have invaded a sovereign nation and kidnapped its leader. nicolas Maduro certainly is corrupt and murderous, but how can we justify our illegal actions on the world stage? Guerrilla warfare, as occurred in Iraq, Libya and other countries we tried to overthrow in the name of democracy, will overtake Venezuela. What and who are we becoming? anTHOny BranCaTO East Meadow

the threat of oil spills that could contaminate the Missouri river and the Standing rock Sioux reservation’s water supply, as Goodman faced arrest. These are just some of the elements of “Steal This Story, Please!” The archival footage illuminates. The directing, by Carl Deal and Tia Lessin, is superb. The words of Goodman running through it are eloquent. Here’s the description of the documentary in the Hamptons Doc Fest program: “Undeterred by armed soldiers, smooth-talking politicians and riot police, journalist amy Goodman has reported some of the most consequential stories of our time. ‘Steal This Story, Please!’ is a gripping portrait of amy, the trailblazer whose unwavering commitment to truth-telling spans three decades of turbulent history. The film is both a call to action and a celebration of resistance, posing the question: What happens to democracy when the press surrenders to power?” In kicking off the 18th year of the Hamptons Doc Fest with the documentary about Goodman, Jacqui Lofaro, the festival’s founder and executive director, spoke of “journalism’s vital role in revealing truth.” Carl Grossman has been an investigative reporter in a variety of media for more than 50 years. He is a professor of journalism at the State University of New York at Old Westbury.

Framework by Tim Baker

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

MASSAPEQUA HERALD POST — January 14, 2026

Documenting a formidable L.I. journalist, Amy Goodman

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