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Coming soon: first sensory performance night. When his wife mysteriously disappears, he leaves his post for the first time to find her, For the first time in its more sending the world into darkness Crichton said planning for than 50-year history, Sanford H. Calhoun High School’s On Tour the sensory-friendly perforCompany will present a sensory- m a n c e b e g a n m o n t h s i n friendly theater performance, advance and required extensive expanding access to live theater behind-the-scenes coordination. for audience members with sen“We’ve been working very sory sensitivities. closely to make sure The sensorythe production feels friendly perforaccessible to all,” he mance of The Old said. “This is our Man and the Old first time doing this, Moon will take place so we’re really tryJan. 24 at 2 p.m. in ing to anticipate the Sal Salerno Little everything and Theater. The producmake sure we’ re tion is part of the On prepared.” To u r C o m p a n y ’s Accommodations 2025–26 season and for the performance was developed includes sensory through a student- NATTIE MARTIN kits with items such driven initiative led Senior, 2025 Merrick as fidget toys and by senior and 2025 Person of the Year noise-canceling Merrick Herald Perheadphones, modison of the Year Natfied lighting to avoid tie Martin, in collaboration with complete darkness, clearly desdirector James Crichton and the ignated quiet areas, and ushers school’s Special Education trained to assist audience memDepartment. bers as needed. Directed and musically Because the play features directed by Crichton, The Old moments of thunder, lightning Man and the Old Moon is a play and shadow puppetry, Crichton with music by PigPen Theatre said the creative team had to Co. that follows a caretaker rethink traditional technical eletasked with refilling the leaking Continued on page 2 moon with liquid light each

By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ

hgaldamez@liherald.com

Courtesy Town of Hempstead

Mulchfest turns Christmas trees into compost Hempstead officials helped a local resident turn his tree into mulch at the town’s sixth Annual Mulchfest. Story, additional photos, Page 3.

MTA slaps commuters with fare hikes Bellmore, Merrick subway, bus, LIRR riders see higher costs By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

Bellmore and Merrick residents who rely on public transportation are paying more to get to work and commute around the region after a Metropolitan Transportation Authority fare increase took effect on Jan. 4. The base fare to board New York City’s subways and buses rose from $2.90 to $3, the first increase in more than two years. While the 10-cent hike amounts to less than a 4 percent increase, fares also went up on the Long Island Rail Road, which many South Shore commuters depend on for daily travel into Manhattan. On the LIRR, monthly, weekly and one-way

peak fares jumped an average of 4.5 percent, with some one-way fares rising by as much as 8 percent. The MTA said monthly ticket prices would not exceed $500, noting that current monthly fares are roughly equivalent to 2019 prices when adjusted for inflation, following a suspended increase in 2021 and a temporary discount in 2022. The MTA board approved the fare increases in September, but implementation was delayed until the beginning of 2026 as the agency completed the transition from the MetroCard to the OMNY contactless payment system. In addition to higher fares, several policy changes regarding tickets are now in effect for Continued on page 11

hope audiences feel that this is an accessible experience for everyone.

Tickets now on sale Continued from page 1

ments. “In a regular production, a blackout is a true blackout,” he said. “For this performance, the lights will never be completely off, so the actors have to stay fully committed to the scene at all times.” Martin said those changes were embraced not only by the production team, but by the entire cast and crew. “It’s been a great collaboration,” she said. “It hasn’t just been me and Mr. Crichton — the entire On Tour Company has been helping out, including our technical director and the actors themselves, who have been so willing to accommodate.” She noted that the house lights will remain partially on throughout the performance to reduce stark contrasts between the stage and audience, and that audience members will be free to leave and re-enter the theater as needed. “Even small changes can have a big impact,” Martin said. “This show is pretty minimalistic by nature, so it naturally lends itself to a sensory-friendly environment.” Additional resources include a sensory and a character guide with photos and brief descriptions to help audience members know what to expect before the show begins. Martin said initial reservations about how the idea would be received quickly faded once the cast understood the pur-

pose behind the effort. “I think there was curiosity at first, but once Mr. Crichton was fully on board, everyone else followed,” she said. “He showed us how professional productions like Hamilton do sensory-friendly performances, and that really helped everyone understand how important and normal this is in theater today.” Crichton said the adjustments have enhanced both the production and the students’ growth as performers. “It reinforces the importance of staying true to the story and the character,” he said. “That level of detail and commitment is something I’m very proud to see in these students.” Martin, who attended sensory-friendly performances on Broadway and beyond, said she hopes the performance allows more people to experience theater in a welcoming environment. “I hope audiences feel that this is an accessible experience for everyone, especially for people who might not otherwise be able to attend live theater,” she said. “And I hope this becomes something that continues, even after I graduate.” Tickets for The Old Man and The Old Moon are $10 for adults and $8 for students and seniors. Additional performances will take place Jan. 17 at 2 and 7 p.m. and Jan. 24 at 7 p.m. Tickets can be reserved by calling the box office at (516) 992-1377 or on the On Tour Company’s Instagram page, @\.

Photos courtesy of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District.

the Calhoun on tour Company presents pigpen theatre Co.’s the old man and the old moon.

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Mulchfest turns Christmas trees into compost

MERRICK HERALD — January 15, 2026

By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com

While ornaments and lights were boxed away for another year, some Wantagh and Seaford residents gave their Christmas trees a second life by turning them into mulch. Several locals joined neighbors from across the South Shore at Echo Park in West Hempstead on Jan. 10 for the Town of Hempstead’s sixth annual Mulchfest. The environmentally friendly event invites residents to drop off their natural Christmas trees to be shredded into nutrient-rich mulch. “Mulchfest has become a cherished tradition in our town, and this year’s event was another great success,” said Town Supervisor John Ferretti. “Residents once again showed their commitment to environmental responsibility by repurposing their Christmas trees in a way that benefits both their own gardens and our community spaces.” Town of Hempstead Parks and Recreation employees oversaw the chipping process and distributed fresh mulch to par ticipants, who were encouraged to take it home for use in gardens or landscaping projects. Mulch helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, and can improve plant health year-round. In addition to the trees, the town also collected broken-down cardboard for recycling, further supporting its push toward sustainable waste practices. Any leftover mulch won’t go to waste. Officials said it will be used in Town of Hempstead parks for upcoming planting and landscaping, supporting the town’s long-term green goals. Mulchfest promotes eco-friendly practices by preventing discarded trees from going to landfills and repurposing them in ways that benefit the environment, such as improving soil health, retaining moisture, and reducing

Courtesy Town of Hempstead

Hempstead Town Supervisor John Ferretti, Councilman Thomas Muscarella, and Town Clerk Kate Murray helped a local resident turn his tree into mulch at the town’s 6th Annual Mulchfest. weeds. Residents still looking to recycle their Christmas trees can do so from Jan. 12-17 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the town’s extended drop-off location: Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve–the Town of Hempstead’s nature preserve, that boasts trails and panoramic views of the South Shore of Long Island, along with piers for fishing and a kayak launch. “The Town of Hempstead remains committed to promoting greener, more sustainable programs for our residents,” Ferretti added. “Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make this year’s Mulchfest another outstanding community event.”

Luke Feeney/Herald

The town’s trucks were filled to brim with mulch. Surplus mulch created during Mulchfest will be used for landscaping and planting projects throughout town parks this year.

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

The environmentally friendly event invites residents to drop off their natural Christmas trees to be shredded into nutrient-rich mulch.

State aims to expand online protections for children, teens

January 15, 2026 — MERRICK HERALD

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As part of her state-ofthe-state proposals, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced legislation to help protect children from online predat or s, sc am me rs an d harmful AI chatbots that are integrated into online platforms. Additionally, Hochul is proposing a first-of-itsDarren McGee/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul kind, statewide expansion Gov. Kathy Hochul announced legislation to help protect of Teen Mental Health children online and to help bolster mental health care F i r s t A i d T r a i n i n g , for youngsters. designed to give young lative proposals “common-sense.” people the tools to identify, “The parents of the MAMA movement understand and effectively respond to signs of mental health and substance are grateful for the governor’s continued abuse challenges among their friends and national leadership on this issue, and we look forward to working with her and peers. “These proposals will create a nation- with the state legislature to enact policies leading standards that will ensure our that protect our kids,” she said. The Teen Mental Health First Aid kids’ safety in online and real work environments,” Hochul said in a Jan. 5 training is being proposed to be available to all 10th-graders in New York, making it release. The legislative package to protect kids available to more than 180,000 students on online platforms includes expanding annually. The training is designed for young peorequirements for platforms to conduct age verification, including online game ple between the ages of 15 and 18 so they platforms; making kids’ accounts be set to can identify, understand and respond to the highest privacy settings on platforms signs of mental health and substance use by default, meaning that non-connections challenges in their friends and peers. It cannot message kids, view their profile or will equip them with skills to recognize tag them in content; disabling AI chatbot common signs and symptoms of mental features on social media platforms for health and substance use challenges; the kids; and expanding parental controls, impact of bullying and school violence on meaning that parents must be able to set mental health; how to have impactful conlimits on children’s financial transac- versations with classmates about mental health concerns or to seek help from an tions. The legislative package is sponsored adult; formal and informal support, and by State Sen. Andrew Gounardes and self-care. “In our discussions with young people Assemblymember Nilly Rozic. Common Sense Media founder James about mental health issues, one consistent thread became clear — youth reach Steyer commended the state’s actions. “The online games kids play and the out to their peers when they are in dissocial media platforms they use for hours tress,” New York State Office of Mental and hours a day become veritable hunting Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan groups for predators,” he said. “Kids and said. “Teen Mental Health First Aid helps teens need these new protections now young New Yorkers talk with their classmates and friends about mental health more than ever.” Julie Scelfo, founder of Mothers issues and provides them with the knowAgainst Media Addiction, called the legis- how to get them help when it is needed.” _________________ bellmore ________________

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Running may do more than strengthen muscles A new study led by NYU Langone Health researchers found that aerobic exercise boosts dopamine release and improves coordination in middle-aged mice, offering clues about how physical activity may help preserve mobility as we age — and even inform treatments for Parkinson’s disease. Here are three things to know about the findings. — Hernesto Galdamez

n Exercise boosts dopamine — evenin middle age

n Better movement came from coordination, not strength

n Insights could help guide Parkinson’s disease research

The researchers examined how running affects dopamine, a brain chemical critical for movement, motivation and memory. Dopamine levels naturally decline with age, contributing to slower movement and reduced coordination. The study found that middle-aged mice — equivalent to humans in their 50s — experienced the same or even greater increases in dopamine release as younger mice after running regularly for 30 days. The findings build on earlier research showing similar effects in young male mice, demonstrating that the brain’s response to exercise remains strong well into middle age.

Middle-aged mice that ran on exercise wheels showed noticeable improvements in agility and speed. They climbed down poles more quickly and moved more efficiently through open spaces than mice that did not exercise. Importantly, the runners’ grip strength did not improve, suggesting the benefits came from enhanced coordination and brain function — not stronger muscles. Researchers measured dopamine release in the striatum, a brain region essential for movement and motivation, and found dopamine levels were about 50 percent higher in exercising mice compared to sedentary ones. “Our findings make clear that the impact of exercise on brain health and mobility is not exclusive to the young,” said senior study author Margaret E. Rice, PhD, a professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine.

The study, published Dec. 9 in npj Parkinson’s Disease, is believed to be the first to directly link exercise-driven dopamine release with improved motor performance in aging mice of both sexes. While female mice ran more than males, both showed similar dopamine boosts and movement gains, suggesting there may be a threshold of exercise needed to achieve benefits. Researchers say the findings may help explain why physical activity eases symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, a condition marked by the breakdown of dopamine-producing neurons. The team plans to repeat the study using mice genetically engineered to model Parkinson’s, while emphasizing that human studies are still needed. “These results provide neurochemical evidence for why exercise improves everything from memory to movement to mood,” Rice said — reinforcing the idea that staying active can help the brain and body move better, even later in life.

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

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

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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Pierre-Charles leads Calhoun victory By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

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

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

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

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

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

Lay-up take you down? We’ve Got Specialists For That ®

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

Jeff Wilson/Herald

Ashton Pierre-Charles poured in 35 points Jan. 7 as the Colts knocked off Long Beach to get back on the winning track. points of a back-and-forth opening half to give the Colts a 31-27 lead. They led by as many as 11 in the second quarter before Long Beach tied it with a pair of McCartney threes sandwiched between five points from Brymer. “Andrew’s been a nice surprise,” Martin said of McCartney, who scored in double figures for an eighth straight game and averages 15.5 points. “He put the offseason work in and it’s paying off.” Calhoun, which lost to MacArthur, 54-52, Jan. 5 and New Hyde Park, 56-54, Dec. 19, caught fire to start the second half and had the Marines in a 16-point hole midway through the third quarter.

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

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January 15, 2026 — MERRICK HERALD

Power Smarter Energy Decisions

MERRICK HERALD — January 15, 2026

FREE WEBINAR HOST

with PSEG Long Island FOR YOUR HOME – FOR YOUR BUSINESS – FOR YOUR BOTTOM LINE

Energy shouldn’t feel overwhelming. This practical webinar breaks down your options so you can take control of costs, reliability, and usage with confidence.

January 30th • 10:00am

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CAN’T MAKE THE LIVE WEBINAR? REGISTER AND YOU’LL RECEIVE THE RECORDING! To sponsor a webinar or for more information contact Amy Amato at aamato@liherald.com or 516.569.4000 x224

DON'T WAIT! REGISTER TODAY & LEARN HOW TO CUT COSTS

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IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

January 15, 2026 — MERRICK HERALD

Mepham alumna named finalist in competition By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

Wellington C. Mepham High School alumna Kimberly Nadler, Class of 2025, has been named a finalist in the Smithsonian’s prestigious 2025 Teen Portrait Competition, earning national recognition for her photographic work. Nadler, 18, a Bellmore resident and freshman at Hofstra University studying exercise physiology, was selected from more than 1,100 submissions nationwide for her photograph, “Alone in the Underbrush.” The piece features fellow Mepham alumnus Spencer Carter, Class of 2025, and explores the connection between nature and teenage mental health. The competition, hosted by the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery, invited teens to submit photographic portraits through an anonymous open call. Entries were reviewed by the Teen Museum Council — a group of high school students from Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia — which narrowed the field to 40 semifinalists. A final jury selected the exhibiting artists and prize winners. Nadler said she lear ned she had advanced to the final round while on campus at Hofstra after finishing a final exam.

Courtesy Bellmore-Merrick Central High School

Kimberly Nadler, Class of 2025.

‘Alone in the Underbrush’

“I opened the website and saw my photo as the banner,” she said. “I gasped out loud. I immediately texted my parents, my grandparents and my photography teacher from Mepham. It was surreal.” According to Nadler, she is the only finalist from New York this year. “Alone in the Underbrush” was created during Nadler’s senior year as

part of her AP Studio Art portfolio. Using a double-exposure technique, the photograph combines a dark nature scene taken at the Bronx Zoo with a portrait of an expressionless teenager, symbolizing depression and loneliness. “I wanted to explore how nature and mental health can be connected,” Nadler said. “Teenagers don’t always talk about what they’re going through,

but a lot of them are dealing with heavy emotions.” Nadler developed her interest in photography while attending Mepham, where she completed photography, college photography, digital art and AP Studio Art courses. She also took a summer photography course at Five Towns College between her freshman and sophomore years of high school. While studying science in college, Nadler continues to pursue photography as a student photographer at Hofstra, covering athletics and campus events for the school newspaper. She credited Mepham teachers for helping her refine her technical skills, particularly during the editing process for her finalist piece. “I wouldn’t have been able to do this without the opportunities and support I had there,” she said. Nadler said the national recognition has reinforced her belief in perseverance as an artist. “You’re not going to be great when you start,” she said. “But if you keep trying and keep creating, you’ll get better.” Nadler’s work will be featured in a video presentation at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C., from Jan. 24 through Aug. 30.

Winter deals drive early birds to the flea market By Rei Wolfsohn Correspondent

The Merrick Winter Flea Market draws early birds, with buyers arriving as much as two hours before its official opening in search of fresh air and post-holiday deals not offered by all vendors. For some sellers, winter markets allow both vendors and shoppers to take advantage of lower prices following the holidays. Others keep prices steady yearround due to consistent demand that is not dependent on weather or season, finding both benefits and drawbacks to winter conditions. Dean Bisaccio, a longtime vendor, said one advantage of winter flea markets is the lack of competition. “There are fewer flea markets,” Bisaccio said. “No garage sales. No yard sales. So people who want to get out and shop and get some fresh air don’t have many choices. There are very few places on Long Island.” Bisaccio said winter markets also benefit from the timing of post-holiday sales. “I try to sell leftover Christmas items — they always sell year-round,” he said. “People look for that stuff at the end of the year. After the holidays, you get better deals. Basically, at this market you bring a little bit of everything. It’s all year-round stuff — collectibles, Christmas and holiday items from sales.” Buyer Steve Boulukos, however, did not find deals on what he was seeking. He attended specifically to purchase collector coins, which typically do not fluctuate in price by season. “I come specifically to meet this one dealer because I’m a coin collector,” Boulukos said. Even without bargains, Boulukos said he enjoys the opportunity to get outside during a time of year that offers fewer chances to do so. “It’s about getting out of the house on a Sunday and

Credit Rei Wolfsohn

The Merrick Winter Flea Market will return on Jan. 18 and Jan. 25. buying a few extra coins,” he said. “It’s just a matter of getting outside and enjoying it.” Bisaccio said winter flea markets also come with drawbacks. “You never know what you’re going to get dealt,” he said. “Today we just happened to have a good day. But there are days when it’s bitterly cold and less crowded, with fewer vendors. You hope for an above-freezing day — anything over 40 degrees is doable.” Weather may also explain why many shoppers arrive early. Boulukos said he was fortunate his coin dealer was still present when he arrived around 2 p.m. By then, most vendors had already left or were packing up. “Normally I would check out other vendors,” Boulu-

kos said. “But I got here late, and most were gone, so I went straight there.” Vendors at the market sold a wide range of items, including cellphone cases, wallets, knives, tools, CDs, books, children’s toys and household goods. Although the market officially opens at 8 a.m., Bisaccio said most shoppers arrive much earlier. “It’s an early crowd,” he said. “They have an earlybird-gets-the-worm mentality. Buyers are here around 6 a.m., just waiting for you to set up. This market is prime from about 6 a.m. to noon.” The Merrick Winter Flea Market will continue at the Merrick Train Station parking lot on Jan. 18 and 25, with official hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Hikes expected to generate $350M annually for MTA

MERRICK HERALD — January 15, 2026

Continued from page 1

LIRR riders. One-way tickets are now valid only until 4 a.m. the day after purchase, replacing the previous 60-day validity period. A new unlimited Day Pass has replaced round-trip tickets, and a mobile “pay-as-you-go” discount now offers a free trip after 10 rides within a 14-day period. For some local commuters, the LIRR policy changes are a bigger concern than the fare hike. “It’s not so much the fare increase in itself — that’s to be expected, especially with new equipment, upgrades and putting the OMNY system in place,” Dan Buckman said, as he commented on a Bellmore/Merrick Facebook group discussion about the increase. “My concern is the new ticket system, with the changes in expiration and ticket activations. I think that may cause confusion and discourage some commuters.” Other commuters said that even modest increases could place a strain on household budgets. “As someone who recently moved to Merrick, the cost of commuting was already something I had to budget for,” David Wegner said. “Even a small increase makes you think twice, especially with the new ticketing changes.” The MTA also expanded its Family Fare program, allowing children ages 5 to 17 to ride the LIRR for $1 when accom-

Herald file photo

Local commuters are now being asked to pay more after the Jan. 4 fare increase by the mta. panied by a fare-paying adult, including during peak hours. Reduced-fare tickets for older adults, people with disabilities and Medicare recipients are now valid at all times, including during the morning rush.

“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.

ating revenue comes from fares. Despite the modest increase, transit advocates note that higher costs could still strain household budgets for Long Island commuters who depend on the railroad five days a week.

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 fare increases will generate about $350 million annually for the MTA, helping to support its roughly $21 billion operating budget, which covers salaries, benefits, utilities and debt payments. More than a quarter of the MTA’s oper-

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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January 15, 2026 — MERRICK HERALD

Five Town officials sworn in for new terms By MELISSA BERMAN mberman@liherald.com

A quarter of a century after graduating from Division Avenue High School in Levittown, John Ferretti was sworn in as Town of Hempstead supervisor last week. Councilwoman Dorothy Goosby, who serves as deputy supervisor; Councilman Dennis Dunne Sr.; Councilwoman Laura Ryder and Town Clerk Kate Murray were all inducted to another term. Former Councilman Gary Hudes served as the evening’s emcee on Jan. 7. Nassau County Legislator Kayla Knight sang the national anthem, and County Clerk Maureen O’Connell led the Pledge of Allegiance. “Being with this group is not just being with my colleagues,” County Executive Bruce Blakeman said. “These are my friends — they are people I’ve had the opportunity and privilege of serving with.” Joe Cairo, chairman of the Nassau County Republican Committee, swore Murray using on a 350-year old Bible. “Years from now, residents of the Town of Hempstead will remember the one name that stands out,” Cairo said. “We’ll always have Kate Murray.” Murray began her 13th term in the town government. “As a lifelong resident of the town,” she said, “I have a deep sense of pride in giving back to the community in any way that I can.” Goosby was sworn in by Frederick Brewington, a civil rights attorney, using a Bible wrapped in kente cloth the cloth of royalty in African tradition. “She has continued to be a stalwart in regards to serving the people of the Town of Hempstead from stem to stern,” Brewington said. “She continues to be a beacon for many of us, and as a result of that, this past election she pulled more than 85 percent of the

Melissa Berman/Herald

Councilman Dennis Dunne Sr., far left, Councilwoman Laura Ryder, Town Clerk Kate Murray, Councilwoman Dorothy Goosby and Supervisor John Ferretti were sworn in to the Town Board on Jan. 7 at Division Avenue High School. votes.” Goosby has been a councilwoman for 20 years, advocating for communities of color. “To be serving the people of the Town of Hempstead has been one of the most generous parts of my life,” she said. “I remain eternally grateful fro the trust you have placed in me over the years.” County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder swore in both Dunne and Laura Ryder, his sister-in-law. Dunne, also a Levittown native and a Division Avenue graduate, has served on the Town Board since 2017. “Growing up in Levittown, America’s first suburb, I believe I have a unique perspective and appreciation of the American dream,” Dunne said. “I have lived the American dream here in the Town of Hempstead, and

I want to ensure that my children and future generations are able to achieve those same goals.” Ryder, who previously served as a Lynbrook village trustee, began her second term as a councilwoman. “Over the past three years, this role has brought me an incredible sense of purpose, personal fulfillment and one of the greatest honors of my life,” she said. Ferretti, who was appointed interim supervisor following Don Clavin’s resignation last Aug. 5, was sworn in as supervisor by Cairo. “I’m profoundly honored by the trust the residents of the Town of Hempstead have in me,” Ferretti said. “I stand before you today with humility, gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility. Today marks the beginning of a new chapter, not just for me but for the entire town.”

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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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.

MERRICK HERALD — January 15, 2026

Epic moments on ice

January 15, 2026 — MERRICK HERALD

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD JAN

required.

Crafts with Corinne

CALENDAR ‘Anastasia The New Musical’

Create a decorative basket at North Bellmore Public Library. Registration

• Where: 1551 Newbridge Road • Time: 11 a.m.-noon • Contact: northbellmorelibrary.org

JAN

Comic showcase

Known for their elite brand of clever comedy, The Ivy League of Comedy visits the Madison Theatre. You’ve heard their brilliant comedic voices on late-night television and Comedy Central and on the club circuit. The lineup features Keith Alberstadt, who’s playful personality radiates on stage. He mixes light-hearted sarcasm with a southern charm and has become a favorite at comedy clubs and theaters. Also Clayton Fletcher, who’s heard every day on Sirius/ XM Radio’s Laugh USA, Blue Collar Comedy, and Jamie Foxx’s Foxxhole stations. He has been featured on Hulu-TV’s “Comedy Brew,” MSNBC’s “Your Business,” ESPN’s “World Series of Poker,” and Comcast-TV’s “Who’s Laughing Now?” He allows us to see the world through the eyes of the son of a poker-playing mom and a jazz musician dad. And Jane Condon, mom of two boys, has been dubbed “an uppercrust Roseanne.” She loves to tell stories about her adventures (mostly survival tales) with her husband and kids. • Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre • Time: 8 p.m. • Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444

Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out

Long Island Children’s Museum’s welcomes all to the opening of its new exhibit. Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out provides interactive experiences that help visitors learn about the important role emotions, memory and imagination play in our everyday lives. Hands-on and digital experiences focus on the five emotions featured in the film: Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust and Fear. Kids learn to recognize emotions and explore ways that we express and manage our own emotions. With opening weekend activities to celebrate the arrival of this traveling exhibit. • Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

JAN

‘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

Art explorations

Converse, collaborate and create with kids at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art. Get inspired by the art and objects in the galleries and then join educators at the Manes Center to explore and discover different materials to create your own original artwork. Kids and adults connect while talking about and making art together. A new project is featured every week. $20 adult, $10 child. For ages 2-14. Registration required. $20, $10 child; members free. • Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor • Time: Noon-3 p.m. • Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

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

Crafted With Love Knitting/ Crocheting Group

North Bellmore Public Library welcomes all crafters. Create handmade items with care and creativity by sharing patterns, swapping tips and enjoy company with crafters. • Where: 1551 Newbridge Road • Time: 6-7:30 p.m. • Contact: northbellmorelibrary.org

Chocolate Chip Cookie Pizza workshop

Join Chef Rob at North Bellmore Public Library for a fun, handson baking class where you’ll prepare your own take-home pizza or giant chocolate chip cookie pizza. It’s perfect for the Big Game, Valentine’s Day, or just

because! Choose from round, square, football, or heart-shaped creations, then bake and enjoy them at home. Bring mixing bowls (1 large and 1 medium), whisk, rubber spatula, a pizza pan or cookie tray, and 1 ¼ cups of semisweet chocolate chips. Adults only. Registration required. • Where: 1551 Newbridge Road • Time: 2-4 p.m. • Contact: northbellmorelibrary.org

JAN

Weight/ Strength Training with Desiree Durand

Molloy Performing Arts Club stages the musical inspired by the films. From Tony winners Terrence McNally, Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, creators of such Broadway classics as Ragtime and Once On This Island, this dazzling show transports its audience from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya enlists the aid of a dashing con man and a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love and family. • Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre • Time: 7 p.m.; also Jan. 23, 8 p.m.; Jan 24, 1 and 7 p.m. • Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444

JAN

STEM Explorers: Winter Olympics

Long Island Children’s Museum invites families to get discover all that makes Olympics competition so exciting. From speed skating to alpine skiing, the Olympics are fun to watch, but did you know that they’re also filled with science? Join the Green Teens in exploring speed, balance and aerodynamics. This is a dropin program, free with admission. • Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: Noon-2 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

Icebreaker 5K

Step into the New Year with a frigid run through Eisenhower Park. • Where: Eisenhower Park Field 5 • Time: 9:15 a.m. • Contact: Events.EliteFeats.com

Get into shape with low-impact strength training at North Bellmore Public Library. $21 fee.

• Where: 1551 Newbridge Road • Time: 11-11:30 a.m., also Jan. 29 • Contact: northbellmorelibrary.org

Chess for adults

Learn the fundamentals of chess with Chris Lucangeli at North Bellmore Public Library. Registration required. • Where: 1551 Newbridge Road • Time: 6-7:30 p.m.; also Feb. 5 and Feb. 19 • Contact: northbellmorelibrary.org

Having an event? Items on the Calendar page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to kbloom@ liherald.com.

News brief

PICTURE PERFECT, NOW

and throughout the hallways each morning. Student greeters will be required to arrive by 8:15 a.m. and report to assigned posts, where they will welcome students and staff with smiles and kind words to help everyone start the day on a positive note. Greeters will rotate daily and work alongside faculty and staff who already greet students outside the building. Licci said the addition of student greeters increases peer-to-peer interaction and helps build a stronger school community. Students interested in either leadership group were required to complete an application and receive a recommendation from a teacher or the principal. Participants in both programs receive ID badges to reflect their leadership roles within the school. “Reading the applications, you could see how serious they took this process, so it’s very meaningful and impactful for them,” Licci said. “This is just another step toward growing student leadership.” The two new initiatives will join several existing leadership opportunities at Newbridge Road Elementary School, including student council, Beautification Club, Café Club, Junior Librarians, Smile Club, Spirit Club and Students Against Destructive Decisions.

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Students at Newbridge Road Elementary School in the North Bellmore School District will take on new leadership roles in the new year with the launch of two student-led initiatives designed to build school spirit and strengthen community. Tiger Birthday Boosters will begin on Jan. 5, followed by Thunder’s Greeting Squad on Jan. 12. Both programs are open to students in grades 3 through 6 and are named after the school’s tiger mascot. Through the Tiger Birthday Boosters program, students will travel throughout the school each day after the morning announcements to recognize classmates celebrating birthdays. The Boosters will carry a calendar and deliver greetings by singing “Happy Birthday,” offering highfives or fist bumps, and handing out handmade cards or posters to make each celebration festive. “The whole point is to make it really fun and exciting,” Amanda Licci, principal of Newbridge Road Elementary School said during an introductory meeting with the first group of Birthday Boosters on Dec. 22. Students will serve as Birthday Boosters twice per six-day cycle throughout January and February, with two additional groups participating before the end of the school year. Beginning Jan. 12, members of Thunder’s Greeting Squad will be stationed inside the school near arrival entrances

MERRICK HERALD — January 15, 2026

Newbridge students to roar into new year as leaders

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Fighting back against scams

January 15, 2026 — MERRICK HERALD

By LUKE FEENEY

lfeeney@liherald.com

Luke Feeney/Herald photos

Residents of all ages are encouraged to attend a seminar at the Levittown Public Library to learn how to protect themselves from online scams.

Public Notices

LMER1 0115

LEGAL NOTICE BELLMORE-MERRICK CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT BELLMORE U.F.S.D. MERRICK U.F.S.D. NORTH BELLMORE U.F.S.D. NORTH MERRICK U.F.S.D. TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU NOTICE TO BIDDERS: In accordance with provision of Section 103 of the General Municipal Law, the Board of Education of the Bellmore-Merrick Transportation Consortium hereby invites the submission of sealed bids for: Bellmore-Merrick Cooperative 2025-2026 School Year Bid Bids will be publicly opened and read at the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District Business Office, 1260 Meadowbrook Road, North Merrick, New York, on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at 10:00 am. Specifications and Bid Forms may be obtained from the office of Tom Volpe, Director of Transportation, between the hours of 8:00 am and 4:00 pm.

The Board of Education reserves the right to waive any informalities in or to reject in whole or in part all bids or to accept any bid which in its judgment is in the best interest of the school district. By order: Board of Education BELLMORE-MERRICK CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT BELLMORE U.F.S.D. MERRICK U.F.S.D. NORTH BELLMORE U.F.S.D. NORTH MERRICK U.F.S.D. 157801

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION of OPPROS LLC. Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/10/2025. Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to 21 Richard Ave, Merrick, NY 11566. Purpose: any lawful act. 157822 Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT NASSAU COUNTY U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR VELOCITY COMMERCIAL CAPITAL LOAN TRUST 2019-02, Plaintiff against 18 HELENE AVE LLC, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC, 28 Corporate Drive, Suite 104, Halfmoon, NY 12065. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered February 3, 2025, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 27, 2026 at 2:00 PM. Premises known as 18 Helene Avenue, Merrick, NY 11566. Sec 56 Block 448 Lot 3. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Merrick, Town of Hempstead,

County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $1,433,972.34 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 610604/2020. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” Joy Bunch, Esq., Referee File # 22-000061-01 157475 PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com

With scams and identity theft on the rise, a Feb. 9 seminar in Levittown will aim to help residents of Wantagh, Seaford and nearby communities protect themselves from those looking to scam them. The free event will take place at 7 p.m. at the Levittown Public Library. It is org aniz ed by State Sen. Steve Rhoads, Nassau County Legislators Tom McKevitt and Kayla Knight, and the Kiwanis Club of Levittown, and will feature experts from the county’s Office of Crime Victim Advocate, the Family & Children’s Association and the Nassau County Police Department. Attendees will learn how to recognize scam red flags, report incidents and recover from fraud. “Whether it’s text messages, emails, telephone calls,” Rhoads said, “residents are being victimized by scams every single day.” Millions of Americans, including thousands of Nassau County residents, are affected by scams each year. According to a recent survey by AARP, about 41 percent of adult Americans, roughly 110 million people, reported that they have had money stolen through fraud or misuse of sensitive information. “The first thing I tell people,” McKevitt said, is “if you don’t know the number, do not pick up. Your doctor’s office will leave a voicemail. Your child will leave a voicemail.” McKevitt has done scam-prevention seminars for the past five years, he said. “We get more and more stories all the time about seniors being taken for tens of thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of dollars due to scams,” he added. The Federal Trade Commission reported that in 2024, consumers lost over $12.5 billion to fraud and scams — a 25 percent increase over 2023. A broader report from AARP estimated that identity fraud and scams cost U.S. adults a combined $47 billion in 2024. And according to a 2023 report by the FBI, more than 3,000 scams were reported across Long Island in 2023, the most recent year for which data is available, and Nassau County residents lost about $73.9 million. McKevitt shared three key tips: treat all unsolicited or unknown phone calls as suspicious; create a secret family code word to verify identities among relatives; and report anything suspicious to the police. According to the State Department of Taxation and Finance, scammers often use scare tactics to get you to reveal your personal or financial information to them. They may demand immediate payment for a fictitious tax debt; threaten police action or deportation; or demand payment in a specific way, such as through prepaid debit cards, gift cards or in person.

Courtesy The Office of Senator Steve Rhoads

The free event was organized by State Sen. Steve Rhoads, above, along with other local leaders and community groups. “You are not bothering us — do not feel you’re bothering us,” McKevitt said of his advice to attendees to contact their elected representatives about suspicious calls. “After you’ve lost $75,000 in gift cards, now you’re bothering us, because to get that money back sometimes is almost impossible.” Gift cards are especially risk y because they function like cash, according to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. Misuse is hard to trace, and most purchases can’t be reversed. Rhoads and McKevitt both explained that the emphasis is on preventing being scammed, because once someone is scammed, it is almost impossible to recover the stolen money. “The real problem is that most of these scammers are outside of the jurisdiction — United States,” Rhoads said. “Which makes it incredibly difficult to try and bring those who are responsible to justice.” Linda Crozier, president of the Levittown Kiwanis Club, said she believed it would be beneficial for the entire community to lear n about how to d e t e c t p o t e n t i a l s c a m s. “ I t ’s fo r seniors,” she said of the upcoming seminar, but added, “It’s for anybody.” Crozier recalled that her own brother was scammed out of “a few thousand dollars,” and she shared a story of a friend of hers who lost money in an online scam. “I thought it was an important thing for our club to do,” she said of the seminar. “It’s our first time hosting something like this.” Rhoads, McKevitt and Crozier all agreed that vigilance is the best way to prevent being scammed. “The best offense is a good defense,” Rhoads said. “Take a minute to attend,” Crozier said and “find out what’s going on.” Residents are encouraged to RSVP for the event by calling Rhoads’s district office, at (516) 882-0630.

E1 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.

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

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

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

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time Positions Available! Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

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EDITOR/REPORTER

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

(Salary is $17.00 per hour)

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OUTSIDE SALES

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

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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

Eldercare Needed

COMPANION WANTED Looking For Female Companion For Elderly Female. Flexible Hours. Must Have Car References Requested Live-in Position Possible 516-652-1453

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MERRICK HERALD — January 15, 2026

HERALD

January 15, 2026 — HERALD

E2 01/15

Homes

HERALD

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

HOME OF THE WEEK

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

Oceanside

The Best of the Best

A zoning variance for a bigger den?

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

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© 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.

E3 01/15

Market Place • •

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HERALD — January 15, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

Protecting our peace of mind, hour to hour

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

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

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

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

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

MERRICK HERALD — January 15, 2026

Cardinal Dolan retires, and an era has passed

Herald editorial

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January 15, 2026 — MERRICK HERALD

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Long Island’s priorities are bipartisan

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

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

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

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

opinions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Framework by Tim Baker

ANTHONY BRANCATO East Meadow

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

MERRICK HERALD — January 15, 2026

Mets and Yankees fans know plenty about chopped liver

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