Merrick Herald 12-11-2025 by Richner Communications, Inc

Merrick is in the holiday spirit

The Merrick Chamber of Commerce kicked off the holiday season with its annual Christmas tree and menorah lighting event. Story, additional photos, Page 10.

Barry Fox, prominent Merrick activist, former Person of the Year, dies at 85

By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

Barry Fox, a relentless civic advocate who spent more than three decades fighting to preserve Merrick’s suburban character and safeguard the quality of life for local residents, died on Nov. 18. He was 85.

Born on Jan. 24, 1940, in New Haven, Connecticut, Fox lived in Merrick for more than 50 years, becoming one of the community’s most influential watchdogs. He served for decades as president of the Merrick Park Home Owners Association, leading efforts to curb overdevelopment, stop environmentally hazardous projects and push for improvements in local infrastructure. For his strong local advocacy, he was named the Merrick Herald’s Person of the Year in 2003.

A retired New York City schoolteacher, Fox also was a husband, father of three, grandfather of 14 and great-grandfather of one.

To many, Fox was reminiscent of George Bailey from “It’s a Wonderful Life” — an unassuming, selfless everyman whose quiet leadership helped shape the place he loved. Residents often said that without Fox, Merrick would look very different.

Under his leadership, the Merrick Park Home Owners Association grew to nearly 200 members and developed into one of the region’s most active civic groups. Fox encouraged generations of residents to engage in local government, offering guidance, mentorship and a steadfast example of community involvement.

From the 1980s through the 2000s, Fox played a

Fans listen to actors from ‘The Sopranos’

By JoSEPH D’AlESSANDRo jdalessandro@liherald.com

Hundreds of fans flocked to the Bellmore Movies and The Showplace for a special opportunity: to spend an evening with four “Sopranos” actors sharing their stories about the show from on and off the screen.

“A Night With The Sopranos” featured actors Robert Funaro, Jason Cerbone, Dan Grimaldi, and Matthew Servitto.

Throughout the session, the quartet gave their perspective on the show’s story, the culture around it, and their feelings about various topics in the past and present.

Jacob Franzetti, 17, of North Bellmore, listened closely to the exclusive information about one of his favorite shows. Franzetti was brought to the Nov. 21 event by his family to celebrate his birthday.

“My mom told me about this earlier in the week,” he explained. “We got a lot of good insight — everyone got to ask questions, and I think it was a really good time.”

Franzetti took the opportunity to meet actor Funaro directly, shaking hands, taking a picture, and expressing his enthusiasm for the show.

“It was a pleasure watching tonight,” Franzetti said.

“Thanks for coming down, and happy birthday,” responded Funaro.

Franzetti is one of many younger fans of the show. This surge in popularity came during the Covid-19 pandemic, when many people found themselves with more time to watch classic shows.

“It became more and more popular,” Funaro explained. “It’s a great feeling — not so much the recognition, but they really like the show, and they like your work, and they appreciate us, and we appreciate them too.”

Fans new and old were well served; the actors had much to share. A common theme between the four’s stories was the collaborative — sometimes comedic — nature of the set. For Servitto and Grimaldi, there were no easy times involving scenes with pump-operated

Continued on page 3

Tim Baker/Herald

Bruce Blakeman is running for governor

By JEFFREY BESSEN jbessen@liherald.com

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

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

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

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

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

Blakeman, who now lives in Atlantic Beach, was the commissioner of the Port

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

In 2014, Blakeman lost to Kathleen Rice to represent the 4th Congressional District that covers a large swath of Nas-

sau’s South Shore. Four years earlier, he ran unsuccessfully for mayor of New York City and U.S. Senate.

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

of its kind partnership in the U.S.

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

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

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

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

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Tim Baker/Herald

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman announced his intention to run for governor of New York on Dec. 9.

Goddard PTO to host Holiday Gift & Vendor Show

By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

The North Bellmore Parent Teacher Organization at the Goddard School will present its first Holiday Gift & Vendor Show this Saturday, Dec. 13, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring local businesses, games, treats, and entertainment.

The event, open to the public, will showcase a variety of vendors offering ornaments, jewelry, wreaths, paintings, and other handmade goods. Organizers say many of the participating vendors are women-owned or women-run small businesses.

Pamela Granda, co-vice president of the PTO, said the event has been months in the making.

“We were very mindful about what type of vendors we wanted,” she said. “We really wanted to support small businesses, especially local parents and neighbors doing what they love.”

The Goddard School of North Bellmore is an early childhood education center serving children from infancy through preschool. The school emphasizes hands-on learning, creativity, and social development, welcoming families from across the North Bellmore community. Granda said the PTO aims to create

Courtesy Metrocreative this Saturday, support local buisnesses at the Holiday gift & Vendor Show.

opportunities for children and parents alike to engage with the school and each other outside the classroom.

Granda said the idea for the event came together quickly after she joined the PTO this year.

ers offering luxury olive oils, wreaths, and handcrafted ornaments. Granda emphasized that organizers worked to ensure there was minimal overlap among vendors’ offerings.

Dom Russolello, president of the PTO, said the event also aligns with the organization’s broader goals.

“This fundraiser has two big parts,” he said. “One is the funds raised for activities and enrichment for the children at the school. The other is that it’s a great opportunity for teachers, parents, kids, relatives, and local businesses to come together as a community.”

Russolello noted that the PTO has hosted other events in the past, including a Halloween “Trunk or Treat” and holiday bake sales, but this vendor show is a first for the school.

Granda said she hopes families will see the event as a way to support local small businesses while enjoying the holiday spirit.

“The school is relatively new, and the PTO started maybe three years ago,” she said. “This is the first time a fundraiser of this scale is being done here. We’re opening the doors to the community to interact and engage with each other.”

Over a dozen vendors are expected to participate, including a parent at the school selling hair accessories and oth-

“Ultimately, small business is one of the pillars of community,” she said. “If I can support a local parent or neighbor versus ordering another Amazon package, I will do that. That’s what we hope people take away from this event.”

The Goddard School of North Bellmore is located at 1641 Bellmore Road.

‘Sopranos’ stars share all at local theater

involving scenes with pump-operated bodily fluids.

One of Servitto’s other stories described a time when he worked with lead actor James Gandolfini, who was at the heart of the show. At the time of filming, Servitto was early in his acting career, and Gandolfini made sure that his input would be accounted for. To this day, Servitto still wears the watch given to him by Gandolfini, in celebration of the show’s finale. Gandolfini died in 2013.

“He was just the most giving actor on the set, and he was a great leader,” Grimaldi added. “He never turned up at six in the morning half hung over, and he would never turn down a picture or an or an autograph. He was just a wonderful, wonderful person to work opposite.”

Cerbone also joined the Sopranos early in his career, which was a lifechanging opportunity.

“I actually got hired twice,” he said. “There was no guarantee that Jackie Jr. was coming back for season three.”

Cerbone had to re-audition for the role when the role was slated for greater involvement in the show.

“It sucked, but then I was ultimately very happy that I was able to earn it and really earn it and be there,” he said.

“The Sopranos” sent ripples throughout television culture, first on its 1999 debut broadcast on HBO, and second when it came to streaming service HBO Max in 2020, solidifying its place as a

multigenerational classic. During this time, Merrick resident Andrew Jedlicka connected with the cast members and made their business plans into reality, creating perfumes, cigars and books, such as Homemade by Funaro.

“It’s just a privilege to not only work with them, but to bring this event to Long Island,” Jedlicka said.

is the founder of The Andrew Frank Group, a consulting firm managing several actors who starred in the primetime drama. The event was presented in collaboration with JD Sarantakos of JD’s Productions. To learn more about similar projects and events, visit @andrewfrankgroup on Facebook and Instagram.

Jedlicka

Continued from page 1

Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald photos Jacob franzetti, left, robert funaro, and Joshua Labarbara met after the event.

merrick resident andrew Jedlicka facilitated the event, working with many actors on special business ventures after the Covid-19 pandemic.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The story of Hanukkah

As Hanukkah approaches, simply saying the word brings a sense of warmth, joy, and a welcome lift to our spirits. This year especially, many of us are craving connection, hope, and light. In a world that can sometimes feel heavy or divided, the story of Hanukkah reminds us that even the smallest spark of goodness can push away great darkness.

The miracle of the Maccabees, and that tiny bit of oil that burned for eight days, is more than an ancient tale. It speaks to the light we each carry within us. Just as the Maccabees stood strong against overwhelming odds, we too can uncover strength, courage, and resilience we may not realize we possess. When we draw on that inner light, we can transform challenges into opportunities, and negativity into kindness.

around us. The true story of Hanukkah is the enduring power of faith, determination, and the belief that a little bit of light can go a very long way.

With rising uncertainty and increased tension in many places, it becomes even more important to let our lights shine proudly. When we come together, each of us adding our flame, we can illuminate our entire community.

R abbi S himon

K R ame R

We invite you to join us as we celebrate Hanukkah and bring its message of hope and unity into our homes, our neighborhoods, and our hearts. For more information, visit chabadjewishlife. org/light. May the lights of the holiday inspire all of us to stand tall, support one another, and share our inner warmth with the world.

Each new day brings with it a dawn, a reminder that renewal is always possible. A flicker of light, a simple act of goodness, or a moment of compassion can brighten not only our own lives but the lives of those

Wishing you and your family a bright, joyful, and meaningful Hanukkah.

Rabbi Shimon Kramer is the director and spiritual leader of Chabad Center for Jewish Life of Merrick-BellmoreWantagh.

to know what you think. Send your letters to 2 Endo Blvd, Garden City, NY 11530 or email execeditor@liherald.com

How Hanukkah Changed the World

Every December, Jews and Non-Jews alike find themselves knee-deep in wrapping paper, as well as more than a healthy share of sugar and carbohydrates. Hanukkah, like most holidays, has not been immune to the gravitational pull of commercialization. When your average eight-year-old is more excited about a remote-control car than surviving persecution, something may have gotten lost in translation.

But behind the dreidels, oil-fried carbs, and “Eight Crazy Nights” playlists, Hanukkah carries a profound meaning—one that, quite literally, changed the world.

Over 2,000 years ago, the Jewish people faced an existential threat, not from physical annihilation, but from cultural erasure. The pagan Greeks did not want to destroy the Jews; they wanted to improve them—by making them stop being Jewish.

Their goal was sophisticated assimilation: swap circumcision for gym membership, kashrut for wineand-cheese, and the Torah for philosophy club. If that project had suc-

ceeded, Judaism would have quietly disappeared into the background of history. And if Judaism disappeared, much of the moral and theological infrastructure we take for granted— Christianity, Islam, and the JudeoChristian values that form the spine of Western civilization— would never have existed.

So here’s the funny historical twist: without Chanukah, there would never have been Christmas. Yes, you heard it here! The only reason why Santa Clause exists is because a little less than 200 years before the birth of Jesus, a small band of stubborn Jews refused to go along with the program.

Now, here’s the other twist. The Rabbis who shaped the holiday could have turned Chanukah into the ancient equivalent of July Fourth: fireworks, military parades, and heroic statues of Judah Maccabee looking victorious. But they didn’t. Instead, they cen-

tered the holiday around the most private, quiet miracle of all—the oil in the Temple’s menorah, which miraculously burned for eight days. Why? Because they understood that political sovereignty is fleeting. Flags change, borders move and empires collapse. But ideas endure. The miracle of the oil represented something deeper than a battlefield win—it symbolized the survival and transmission of Jewish values, of moral clarity, and of a spiritual light that refuses to be extinguished even when the world goes dark.

When we light our menorahs today, we aren’t just commemorating ancient history. We’re participating in it. Every candle declares, as loudly as any military victory, that Judaism and the values it birthed—justice, compassion, human dignity—are still here, still relevant, and still illuminating a world that often feels increasingly

chaotic, cynical, and dim.

The French philosopher Blaise Pascal once said that the continued existence of the Jewish people was itself proof of the supernatural.

“The Jews, Your Majesty—the Jews!” When asked for evidence of God, he pointed to a people who refused to vanish.

Every time a Jew lights a candle, gives tzedakah, keeps Shabbat, or simply refuses to let their identity fade, they become a living testament to that miracle. They are a link in a chain of light that stretches across centuries.

So this year, whether you are admiring the lights of the Menorah or your Christmas tree, take a moment to remember what the celebration is really about: that against all odds, a small people with big ideals miraculously refused to disappear—and that their light continues to brighten the world, one flame at a time.h.

Rabbi Ira Ebbin is the spiratural leader at Congregation Ohav Sholom

Hofstra showing championship potential

By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com

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

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

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

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

The Pride made another statement a week later with an 80-73 win at ACC opponent Pittsburgh Hofstra returned six players from last season in which the Pride dropped several close conference games to finish 6-12 in the CAA. It was picked to finish eighth in the 13-team CAA and are looking to prove the doubters wrong with a determined core led by junior guard Cruz Davis, a St. Johns transfer who averaged 14,4 points per game for the Pride last season.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cradle of Aviation welcomes Katie Ledecky

By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information on Catholic Health, visit CatholicHealthLI.org

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

H A nukk AH GreetinGs news brief

Greetings for Hanukkah

As the days grow shorter and the winter nights longer, we once again prepare to welcome the lights of Hanukkah - a festival that calls us to remember our history, celebrate our resilience, and renew our commitment to bringing light into the world. Hanukkah is not only a commemoration of an ancient miracle; it’s an invitation to examine how we nurture hope, justice, and compassion in our lives today.

The story of Hanukkah begins in a time of profound challenge. The Jewish community faced oppression, cultural erasure, and moral uncertainty. Yet, despite all of this, a small but determined group, the Maccabees, refused to let despair define them. They reclaimed our Holy Temple, restored our traditions, and reignited the Menorah in the

this act of courage and faith, a light emerged that endured far longer than expected.

Whether we understand the miracle as historical fact, spiritual truth, or symbolic wisdom, its message remains powerful: even a small spark can transform darkness. Our task is to kindle that spark within ourselves and share it generously.

Today, our world still knows darkness. There is conflict, fear, loneliness, rising AntiSemitism, and the difficulties many families face simply trying to get by. But with all that, Hanukkah reminds us that we are not powerless. Every act of kindness, every moment of listening, every

Judaism emphasizes not only the celebration of miracles but the responsibility to be the miracle. Each night, as we place another candle in the Chanukah Menorah, we affirm that light should grow, not diminish. We commit to expanding empathy, strengthening community, and pursuing a world where all people can live in safety and peace. Hanukkah also teaches the importance of joy. Amid lifes challenges, we gather with loved ones, savor the scent of latkes frying, spin dreidels, and sing songs handed down through generations. These traditions are not trivial; they sustain us. Joy is a source of resilience. It reminds us that we are connected to something

each of us to consider: What light can we bring into the world? How can we brighten someone elses path? Perhaps it is offering support to a neighbor, volunteering time or resources, or simply choosing compassion in a moment when impatience would be easier. Light shared is never diminished - it only grows. May the flames of the Chanukah Menorah illuminate your homes with warmth and peace. May they remind us that we are stronger together, and that the choices we make day by day, candle by candle, can help build a brighter, kinder community. And may we carry the spirit of Hanukkah forward, committed to being sources of hope in every season.

From my family to yours: Chag Urim Sameach-Wishing you a joyful, meaningful, and light-filled Festival of Lights.

Competition, camaraderie enrich Fayette School

Students at Harold D. Fayette Elementary School in the North Merrick School District flexed their engineering skills and creativity during a special day of activities on Nov. 26.

Classrooms buzzed with excitement during the district’s twice-a-year Enrichment for All event, which assigns each class a hands-on challenge designed to test problem-solving and teamwork.

This season, I encourage

Rabbi Mickey Baum is the spiritual leader and education director of Temple Beth Am

Students faced off in strategy games such as checkers and Connect Four, while others worked together to complete puzzles or engineer solutions to real-world problems. By adding wheels to plastic building blocks, students designed functional vehicles and raced them down a makeshift hallway track to see which could travel the farthest.

— Hernesto Galdamez

M ickey B au M

Merrick kicks off the holiday season

The holiday season kicked off in Merrick with two beloved community traditions hosted by the Merrick Chamber of Commerce.

On Dec. 6, families flocked to the Merrick Clubhouse for the annual Santa Claus visit. The celebrations continued on Dec. 7 with the community Christmas tree and Menorah lighting at the gazebo at Merrick Avenue and Broadcast Plaza. The Chamber’s Christmas tree and giant menorah were illuminated before a crowd of residents who gathered to mark the season.

For more information, visit MerrickChamber.org.

Community members were quick to showcase their spirit for the holidays.

— Hernesto Galdamez

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Dancers from The Dance Place perform “Everybody’s Waitin’ for the Man with the Bag” during the holiday showcase.

Members of the Merrick Chamber of Commerce and local elected officials gathered for the celebration.

The Christmas tree and menorah are lit to kick off the holiday season in the community.

Christmas Eve Package

$32999+ tax serves up to 10 people

CHOICE OF SEAFOOD STARTER

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CHOICE OF HOT STARTER SEAFOOD (1 HALF TRAY)

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• haricot vert almondine (string beans) • broccoli cauliflower oreganata • roasted red potatoes

COOKIE TRAY AND 2 BREADS INCLUDED WITH PACKAGE

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$30999+ tax serves up to 10 people STARTER

• signature antipasto platter

CHOICE OF PASTA (1 HALF TRAY)

New Years Eve Packages

3 FOOT HERO $17999+ tax serves 10-12 people

CHOICE OF HERO

• Italian • American -OR-

• classic chicken (breaded or grilled) mozzarella and roasted peppers

CHOICE OF TWO HALF TRAYS

• hot wings • sweet wings • sausage and peppers

• baked ziti • stuffed shells • meatballs

• hot appetizer sampler • eggplant rollatini

6 FOOT HERO $34999+ tax serves 20-25 people

CHOICE OF HERO

• Italian • American -OR-

• classic chicken (breaded or grilled) mozzarella and roasted peppers

CHOICE OF FOUR HALF TRAYS OR TWO FULL TRAYS

• hot wings • sweet wings • sausage and peppers

• baked ziti • stuffed shells • meatballs

• hot appetizer sampler • eggplant rollatini

• meat or cheese lasagna • baked ziti with meat or cheese • rigatoni siciliana with eggplant and mozzarella

CHOICE OF ENTREE (1 HALF TRAY)

• herb crusted prime eye round roast sliced with potatoes and onions in au jus

• spiral glazed ham

• boneless pork loin stuffed with prosciutto, provolone, basil sliced with potatoes and onions

• chicken francese –OR- chicken marsala

CHOICE OF VEGETABLE (1 HALF TRAY)

• eggplant rollatini with fresh mozzarella and ricotta • roasted red potatoes

• haricot vert almondine (string beans) • broccoli and cauliflower oreganata

COOKIE TRAY AND 2 BREADS INCLUDED WITH PACKAGE

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

On many days there are multiple shows per

1The Rockettes have been a cherished New York City holiday tradition since 1933. Their first appearance in the inaugural Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall firmly established them as an essential part of the city’s seasonal celebrations. Over the decades, the show has expanded into one of New York’s most beloved annual events, drawing both locals and tourists. Though the production continually evolves—incorporating advanced stage technology, refreshed choreography, and updated narrative elements—it preserves classic numbers like the iconic “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers.” For many families, attending the Christmas Spectacular has become a multigenerational ritual, cementing the Rockettes as enduring symbols of the holiday spirit in New York.

2

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

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

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

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

Five things to know:

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

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

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

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

News brief

Mentoring future middle schoolers

Soon-to-be middle schoolers at Old Mill Road Elementary School got a glimpse of what’s ahead on Dec. 3, when high school students visited to offer guidance and advice.

Members of the ACES (Athletes Compassionately Educating Students) Club at Calhoun High School visit all three North Merrick schools each year to mentor sixth graders. The athletes represent a variety of teams, including football, softball, track, and cross-country.

During the visit, students completed an icebreaker questionnaire to get to know one another. Sixth graders then asked the high schoolers questions about their academic and athletic experiences, which the visitors answered for the entire class.

The program aims to ease nerves about advanced coursework while boosting excitement for life beyond graduation.

— Hernesto Galdamez

Courtesy North Merrick Public Schools

At Old Mill Road Elementary School on Dec. 3, student athletes from the Calhoun High School ACES Club visited sixth graders.

Long Island’s Top Chiefs honored for leadership

By ABIGAIL GRIECO agrieco@liherald.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“We’re really piggybacking off that

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ronald Fatoullah, Esq., CELA,

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

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

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

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

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

President, Sean Acosta, Property Tax Reduction Consultants.

Chief Executive Officer, Billy Haugland II, Haugland Group.

President & CEO, Katherine Fritz, Long Island Cares. Special volunteer from Guide Dogs Foundation and American VetDogs.

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

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

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

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

President & CEO, Anne Brigis from YMCA Long Island.

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

Described as loving community and family man

central role in nearly every major zoning battle affecting Merrick. In 1984, he helped lead a successful fight against Bonded Brakes Inc., a brake factory that reportedly handled asbestos and sought to expand near homes along Hewlett Avenue. After a rally that drew more than 350 residents, the company withdrew its zoning application.

He later helped block the conversion of a Foodtown supermarket into a 24-hour food-storage warehouse that would have brought heavy truck traffic near Chatterton School. And in 1994, after extensive lobbying, the homeowners association persuaded the Town of Hempstead to condemn a decrepit junkyard and ratinfested wood lot at Sunrise Highway and Hewlett Avenue, replacing it with a commuter parking lot.

Fox also opposed a planned Checkers fast-food restaurant at a dangerous intersection, fought the installation of a 100-foot cell tower across from Chatterton, and joined regional efforts to challenge emissions from Freeport’s diesel Power Plant No. 2 — even marching dressed as the Grim Reaper to draw attention to environmental risks posed by the plant.

In addition, he played a key role in negotiating improvements to the Merrick Mall, long criticized for being marred with graffiti and poor upkeep. During a 2003 zoning hearing on Stop & Shop’s renovation plans, Fox presented a detailed list of concerns from Merrick Woods’ residents. The supermarket ultimately agreed to numerous conditions, including landscaping upgrades, odor mitigation, increased security, equipment relocation and redesigned parking and loading areas.

Fox also spearheaded efforts to create a memorial honoring the 17 Merrick and North Merrick residents killed on Sept. 11, 2001, helping secure $15,000 in grants

to build a wrought-iron gate and commemorative plaque at a local nature preserve. He insisted that local high school students help design the memorial, turning the project into a civics lesson for them.

While Fox was a fierce advocate in the public arena, his wife Sandra said his greatest devotion was to his family.

She remembered their first meeting as young graduate students at Hunter College, traveling home together on the same train and quickly realizing they shared a vision for a large, loving family.

“I knew I wanted him to be the father of my chil-

dren,” she said. “He was kind, giving, caring — and as a husband, he was the same.”

They ultimately raised three daughters — Amy, Heather and Sara — and built a home filled with “laughter and joy,” Sandra said. Their 14 grandchildren, one great-grandchild — with three more on the way — were the highlights of his days.

“My father was my best friend, my confidant and my protector,” his daughter, Amy, wrote to the Herald. “He was larger than life, truly a unicorn. A force of nature and an agent of change in the community, a leader and a fighter.”

“He spoke to at least one grandchild every single day, no matter how young or old — 3 to 30. Grandpa was there to listen,” she added.

Fox was known for his sharp intellect and remarkable memory. Though he could have chosen a more lucrative career, Sandra said, “what he wanted most was to help people.” He spent years as a history teacher in New York City junior high schools and later as a homebound instructor, working with the city’s most vulnerable students. In his second career as a college financial-aid consultant, he helped thousands of young adults pursue higher education.

“My father was an excellent communicator with a great understanding of human nature,” Heather said. “He was an extraordinary man on every level in a way that is difficult to articulate. His deep connection to his Jewish heritage in the study of Torah and his daily prayers brought him solace and comfort.”

“Our loss is not only personal, but one that will be deeply felt by the community,” Sandra said.

Fox is survived by his wife, Sandra; their three daughters, Amy, Heather and Sarah; 14 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Courtesy Amy Gewirtz

Barry fox is survived by his wife, Sandra fox.

STEPPING OUT

Baking up holiday cheer

‘Tis the season munch on a cookie

By Karen Bloom

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

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

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

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

Peppermint Mocha Chip Cookies

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

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

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

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

• 3 teaspoons instant coffee

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract

• 3 large eggs

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose ﬂour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 12 soft peppermint candies, crushed

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

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

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

Elon Gold

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

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

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

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

Hanukkah Sugar Cookies

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

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup butter, softened

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 tsp. vanilla

• 2 cups ﬂour

• Colored sugar or decorating icings

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

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

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

Melted Snowman

These cookies are cute tasty holiday treat.

• 3/4 cup butter, softened

• 3/4 cup white sugar

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 egg

• 1 tablespoon milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups all-purpose ﬂour

Decorations:

• 12 large marshmallows

• 3 cups confectioners’ sugar

• 1/4 cup water

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

• 1 drop red food coloring, or as desired

• 1 drop yellow food coloring, or as desired

Preheat oven to 350 F.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

‘A Celtic Christmas’

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

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

Peppermint Mocha Chip Cookies Hanukkah Sugar Cookies

Melted Snowman

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CALENDAR

DEC

11 LuminoCity Festival

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

• Where: Eisenhower Park, East Meadow

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

• Contact: luminocityfestival.com

‘Home for the Holidays’ Pet Adoption

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

• Where: 3320 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh

• Time: Ongoing, through Jan. 4.

• Contact: (516) 785-5220

DEC

12

‘Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive

The Bus! The Musical’

Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes back this delightful production, based on Mo Willems’ award-winning “Pigeon” picture books. Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! is even more fun than staying up late and having a hot dog party. It’s not easy being the Pigeon — you never get to do anything. But when the Bus Driver has a crisis that threatens to make her passengers (gasp!) late, maybe that wily bird can do something. Featuring an innovative mix of songs, and feathers, this show is sure to get everyone’s wings flapping. $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

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

• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

DEC

13

Craft show

Get into the holiday spirit by shopping local at the Goddard School. This festive event features handmade goods, crafts, jewelry, home décor, holiday treats, and unique gifts. Support local small businesses and enjoy a

20 DEC

‘Rockin’ the Holidays’ with The Rascals

If you’re already humming holiday tunes and craving a little rock ‘n’ roll spirit, here’s your chance to celebrate in timeless style. Rockin’ the Holidays brings The Rascals back to the stage — joined by special guests John Cafferty and the Beaver Brown Band — for a concert packed with energy, nostalgia and chart-topping hits.

Two of The Rascals’ founding members, Felix Cavaliere and Gene Cornish, reunite for this festive performance, fueled by a deep love for their fans and the enduring power of their music. With accolades that include induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Grammy Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame, The Rascals remain icons of American rock and the defining sound of 1960s blue-eyed soul. Their legacy shines through 17 Top 20 hits, seven Top 10 singles and three No. 1 classics — among them “Groovin’,” “People Got to Be Free” and “Good Lovin’.” Audiences can expect all the favorites, plus holiday flair and the warm, soulful harmonies that made The Rascals unforgettable. “We’re so grateful for the fans — this is for them,” Cavaliere shares. Cornish echoes the sentiment: “This gives us another chance to play together and do it for the fans.”A night of feel-good music, memories and holiday cheer awaits — the perfect way to rock your way into the season.

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

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: livenation.com

was during the Gilded Age that many of the Christmas traditions still celebrated in America today first became part of mainstream culture. From sugar plums to plum pudding, each recipe in ‘The Gilded Age Christmas Cookbook” offers a colorful glimpse into the era. The program, based on the book, explores the holiday lore of the time, sharing the origins of beloved customs Treats from the cookbook are available to sample, with books available for purchase. $30 per person. Registration required.

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: 7-8:30 p.m.

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

Evening Book Club

Participate in a discussion of the novel “The Christmas Bookshop” by Jenny Colgan at North Bellmore Public Library.

• Where: 1551 Newbridge Road

• Time: 6:30 -7:30 p.m.

• Contact: northbellmorelibrary.org

‘Holiday Joy’ Christmas Celebration

fun-filled day of holiday cheer. Vendors are needed. If you sell handmade items or unique products, reserve your space by contacting Pam at (718) 6076330 for registration details. For more information, follow @ GoddardSchoolBellmorePTO on social media platforms for updates.

• Where: 1641 Bellmore Road, North Bellmore

• Time: Opens 9 a.m.

• Contact: (718) 607-6330

Holiday concert

Celebrate the season at North Bellmore Public Library with festive holiday music performed in the authentic New Orleans jazz tradition by the Paumanok Stompers. Enjoy classic holiday tunes in the vibrant style of New Orleans jazz. led by Marc Johnson. No registration is required and seating is on a first-come, firstserved basis.

• Where: 1551 Newbridge Road, North Bellmore

• Time: 2:30 p.m.

• Contact: northbellmorelibrary. org or call (516) 785-6260

Holiday fun at Westbury House

Step into the magic of Christmas at Old Westbury Gardens’ Westbury

House! Bring the kids a festive night filled with holiday fun! Explore, through a self-guided tour, the beautifully decorated mansion with a special Christmas scavenger hunt. Get creative at Christmas craft stations, making holiday keepsakes to take home. Meet Santa Claus himself, share your wish list and snap a photo to capture the moment. Enjoy delicious cookies and cider in our West Porch. The party features Lucky Duck Puppets’ holiday show, at 7 p.m. The Winter Holiday Puppet Show is an original story about Greg, a North Pole penguin trying to find his place in the world and how he can help spread holiday cheer! $25, $22 ages 3-12 (20% member discount. Advance registration required

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: 6-8 p.m.

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

Festive tunes

DEC

Visit Merrick Library for a festive afternoon with the Paul Effman Band, known for their vibrant performances and wideranging repertoire. The band brings holiday classics and timeless hits to life, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that’s perfect for celebrating the season. No registration required.

• Where: 2279 Merrick Ave., Merrick

• Time: 2:30 p.m.

• Contact: merricklibrary.org or (516) 377-6112

Hockey clinic

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

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

Gilded Age Holiday

Visit Old Westbury Gardens’ Westbury House for a tasty holiday gathering. It

Beloved holiday tunes are combined with a musical cabaret in a vibrant, joyous over-the-top spectacle that is the Madison Theatre’s annual holiday celebration. The performers enthusiastically share all the delights of the season in this remarkable show, now in its 12th year, created by Artistic Director Angelo Fraboni. The lively cast includes Molloy University’s pre-professional CAP21 Musical Theatre Conservatory students and Broadway performers. Their enthusiasm and energy shine throughout the show, making it a one-of-a-kind holiday experience. Timeless songs are brought to life in joyful arrangements, accompanied by a lively band that adds a festive musical backdrop to the spectacle.

• Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre

• Time: 7 p.m.; also Dec. 19, 7 p.m.; Dec. 20, 2 and 7 p.m.; Dec. 21, 3 p.m.

• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444

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.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

Annual Audit Report

Notification

Notice is hereby given that the fiscal affairs of Bellmore-Merrick

Central High School District for the period beginning on July 1, 2024 and ending on June 30, 2025, have been examined by an independent public accountant, and that the report of, or management letter prepared in conjunction with the external audit by the independent public accountant has been filed in my office where it is available as a public record for inspection by all interested persons.

Pursuant to §35 of the General Municipal Law, the governing board of the Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District may, in its discretion, prepare a written response to the report of external audit or management letter by independent public accountant and file any such response in my office as a public record for inspection by all interested persons no later than February 1, 2026.

By Pattianne Guccione District Clerk

Bellmore-Merrick

Central High School District, North Merrick, New York 157259

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the annual inspection for the 2025-2026 year for all school buildings of the

Bellmore-Merrick

Central High School District for fire hazards which might endanger the lives of students, teachers and employees therein, has been completed and the report thereof is available at the District Administration Building, 1260 Meadowbrook Road, North Merrick, NY 11566-1500 on any

business day between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. 157260

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS

Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 12/17/2025 at 9:30

A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:

THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M.

629/25. MERRICKJohn G. & Lindsey Gallagher, Mother/Daughter Res. (2nd Kitchen)., N/s Orchard St., 288.50’ W/o Whaleneck Rd., a/k/a 1957 Orchard St. 638/25. MERRICKJoseph Demarco, Install shed with more than required side yard setback., N/W cor. E. Webster St. & Brookside Ave., a/k/a 45 E. Webster Ave. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550.

This notice is only for new cases in Merrick within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at

https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals

The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo

Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it. 157246

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, PS FUNDING, INC., Plaintiff, vs. PROPERTY A10 LLC, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on January 20, 2023 and an Order Appointing Successor Referee to Compute May 14, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 14, 2026 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 3376 Robin Lane a/k/a 3376 Robbin Lane, Merrick, NY 11566. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situated, lying and being at Merrick, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 63, Block 327 and Lot 20. Approximate amount of judgment is $878,911.06 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #

600211/2022.

Louis B. Imbroto, Esq., Referee

Chartwell Law, One Battery Park Plaza, Suite 710, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff 157165

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Advancial Federal Credit Union, Plaintiff AGAINST

Michael A. Volino, a/k/a Michael Volino; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 18, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 13, 2026, at 2:00PM, premises known as 204 Margaret Boulevard, Merrick, NY 11566. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Merrick, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 56 Block 87 Lots 46, 47, 48, 49, 50 [Lot Group]. Approximate amount of judgment $293,934.68 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 615213/2022.

Brian J. Davis, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792

Dated: November 24, 2025 157169

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

Gov. Kathy Hochul signed legislation that could bring property tax relief to New

senior homeowners. It allows local governments to raise the maximum allowable exemption for eligible residents.

Hochul authorizes

property tax exemptions for seniors

Gov. Kathy Hochul has signed legislation that increases the real property tax relief local governments may offer to senior homeowners, raising the maximum allowable exemption for eligible residents for the first time in decades.

The measure, S5175A/A3698A, authorizes cities, towns and villages to provide property tax exemptions covering up to 65 percent of a home’s assessed value for seniors who meet local income limits and other eligibility requirements. Previously, localities could offer exemptions of no more than 50 percent. State officials said the increase could translate to as much as $300 in annual savings for the average senior if adopted by a local government.

Hochul said the goal of the legislation is to help older New Yorkers remain in their homes as housing costs rise. “No New York senior should lose their home because they can no longer afford their property taxes,” she said in a statement. “By signing this legislation, we are working to make New York more affordable for our seniors on fixed incomes and empowering them to age in place, at home, in the communities they know and love.”

The change could have broad impact across the state. The New York State Office for the Aging estimates that more than 1.8 million older adults own their homes. Greg Olsen, NYSOFA’s acting director, said property taxes are a significant burden for residents living on fixed incomes. “This important law will contin-

ue to help older adults remain in the homes and communities of their choice and keep their vast contributions within New York State,” he said.

Lawmakers who sponsored the bill said the higher exemption level reflects the economic pressures seniors are facing. State Sen. Leroy Comrie said many older adults are grappling with rising housing costs and inflation. “Signing S5175A into law is an important step toward restoring real affordability for older adults across New York,” Comrie said. “This law allows localities to offer up to a 65 percent discount to eligible seniors so long-time homeowners can remain in their communities with dignity and security.”

The measure builds on Hochul’s broader affordability agenda, which includes a middle-class tax cut affecting an estimated 8.3 million New Yorkers and bringing tax rates to their lowest levels in 70 years. Her administration has also expanded the Child Tax Credit to provide up to $1,000 per child under age 4 and up to $500 for school-aged children beginning in 2026. Other recent initiatives include inflation refund checks — up to $200 per person or $400 per family — issued to more than 8 million residents, and statewide free breakfast and lunch for all K-12 students, which officials say can save families up to $1,600 per child each year.

— Jordan Vallone

Courtesy Metro

York

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE

Full Time/Part Time

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

Salary Range is $16.50 per hour to $20 per hour.

For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: circulationassociate@liherald.com

DRIVERS WANTED

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Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour

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Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

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. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16.50 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

MULTI MEDIA

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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 $34,320 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

The Merrick Before/After School Program is hiring for the 2025-26 school year.

We require mature individuals to provide quality childcare to elementary school aged children between the hours of 2:30pm to 6:00pm weekdays. Minimum 3 afternoons per week

Experience helpful Competitive hourly wage

If interested email merrickbasp@aol.com or Call (516) 379-4245. 1308490 1326292

OUTSIDE SALES

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

Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250

PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS

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

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HomesHERALD

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

Can we add a garage now, and get the permits later?

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

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

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

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

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

Monte Leeper, architect.

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opinions

Desperately seeking bipartisanship and compromise

Recently I took part in several WABC radio talk shows moderated by the station’s owner, New York business mogul John Catsimatidis. The topics we covered initially focused on Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s election, County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s overwhelming victory in last month’s election and the upcoming statewide race for New York governor. Among the participants were veteran political leader Craig Eaton, a former chairman of the Republican Party in Brooklyn, and David Paterson, whose decadeslong career of service included being governor, state senator and state Democratic Party chairman.

The conversations soon veered from specific races to the issue of the almost total disappearance of bipartisanship in today’s politics and government. Despite our varying political views and beliefs, we were in full agreement that needless partisanship and mindless rancor are weakening the nation’s fabric and threaten our future.

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

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

Let me be clear. I say this not as a blind idealist, nor as someone who believes that the old days were all love and harmony. Not after more than a halfcentury of fighting to survive the minefields of Nassau County, New York state and Washington politics! No, those days weren’t heaven on earth. But there were lines that weren’t to be crossed and responsibilities that had to be met.

Instead Dewey let it be known through channels that he would not use the devastating info: America was still at war, and Japan wasn’t aware we had broken its code. Dewey would not undermine the commander in chief in time of war, even if it meant not winning the presidency.

We can have bipartisan relationships without giving up core principles.

And this sense of basic civility certainly precedes my time in politics. A clear example was the 1944 presidential election, between President Franklin D. Roosevelt, a Democrat who was running for his fourth term, and New York Gov. Thomas E. Dewey. After 12 years in office and almost total domination of the political scene, FDR was the Republicans’ number one political enemy. They wanted him stopped at all costs.

During the campaign, Dewey was secretly informed that United States intelligence had broken Japanese code months before the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor. That meant that Dewey could hold FDR responsible for failing to act on that vital intel, or, more conspiratorially, charge that FDR intentionally allowed the attack to go forward to drag the United States into World War II.

In later years, Ronald Reagan, our most conservative president, and then House Speaker Thomas P. “Tip” O’Neill, a diehard liberal, found ways to compromise — often over an evening drink — even on third-rail issues like Social Security. More important, they never let their political differences become personal.

Even during the much more partisan years of President Bill Clinton’s administration and Newt Gingrich’s House speakership, there were historic bipartisan achievements, including welfare reform and the only balanced budget and surplus in the past half-century.

During my time in Congress, I worked closely with Clinton on foreign policy issues such as the Good Friday Agreement, which ended the centuries-old struggle in Northern Ireland, and stopping Serbian aggression in the Balkans. And domestically, I successfully urged Clinton to revive the East Side Access

project, connecting the Long Island Rail Road to Grand Central Station despite the opposition of his budget office and the lack of support from some New York Democrats.

In Congress I worked closely across the aisle on vital issues for New York, such as Sept. 11 health care and victims compensation, homeland security funding for police and first responders after 9/11, and disaster aid following Superstorm Sandy.

I was able to establish solid bipartisan relationships in Washington, with leading Democrats Chuck Schumer, Hillary Clinton, Charlie Rangel and Ed Towns, and in New York, with Paterson, Andrew Cuomo and former New York City Mayor Ed Koch, who was a source of advice and counsel for me.

All that I did with these Democrats was achieved without any of us sacrificing our core principles. These were combined efforts on issues that transcended party lines and benefited our constituents. We saved the partisan arguments for ideological issues on which we couldn’t find compromise. That’s what democracy should be all about. It worked for the betterment of the voters of my district, state and nation. We need more of it.

Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.

Those who ignore James Carville face oblivion

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HERALD

Act now to restore order, safety to e-mobility

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for the honor of serving the 5th District

Thank you. I cannot say it enough.

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

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

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

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

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

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

focused on the health and safety of our community members.

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

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

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

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

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

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

representing the 5th District is directly related to the support, advice and guidance I received from my fellow legislators. Thanks to each of you.

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

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

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

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

seTh i. koslow

Framework by Tim Baker

At the Holiday Boat Parade on the Nautical Mile — Freeport

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