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Still painting every day, even at age 90 instructor said. “He’ll never be an artist.” “So I continued on my own,” Robert “Captain Bob” Bozek Bozek said. “I never stopped stood surrounded by 159 of his painting.” At Oceanside High School, paintings — a lifetime of creativity that, for decades, lived he wanted to focus on art, but quietly alongside a career in no such pro g ram existed. newspaper production and a Instead he made his own path, taking every art-related class second life of charter boating. The Oceanside available — history Library honored of ar t, printing, the 90-year-old mechanical drawOceanside native ing and photograon Jan. 7 with an phy — while also artist’s reception designing sets for and a presentation school theater proin its lower-level ductions and workgallery, celebrating ing on yearbook both Bozek’s work layouts. His efforts and his artistic ear ned him the journey — one that ROBERT ‘CAPTAIN school’s first-ever began in childhood, arts degree, and his detoured and has BOB’ BOZEK classmates dubbed continued in recent him “Oceanside’s years with renewed energy. Rembrandt” in the 1953 year“It was my lifelong dream book, when he graduated. when I was a kid,” Bo zek That foundation led to a recalled. “I wanted to be an art- 43-year career at Newsday, ist.” where Bozek worked in producBorn and raised in Oceans- tion and layout before retiring ide, he began painting at age 12, as advertising production manunder his mother’s guidance. ager. Though his professional Early encouragement, however, life was rooted in journalism, was not universal. A profes- he never strayed far from art. sional instructor advised RobDuring the 1950s, Bozek and ert’s mother to abandon the investig ative re por ter Bob idea. CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 “Save your money,” the

By ABIGAIL GRIECO

agrieco@liherald.com

Courtesy Donna Kraus

Q and U make it official Dawn Goldberg’s kindergarten class at School No. 6 ELC celebrated a special wedding on Jan. 9, honoring the letters Q and U, which students learned “stick together like glue” in words such as quick, queen and quiet. They took on roles from bride and groom to guests, danced around the gym with bubbles and finished the celebration with a festive classroom snack.

OHS senior gains aviation experience By ABIGAIL GRIECO agrieco@liherald.com

For most high school students, the classroom, homework and extracurriculars define their weekdays. But for 17-year-old Nicholas DeBono, a senior at Oceanside High School, part of the school weekis spent at an aviation academy. DeBono is one of two students from Nassau BOCES Barry Tech interning at Icarus Flying Academy, in Farmingdale, where he is gaining hands-on experience in aviation operations. Once a week he works alongside professionals managing the academy’s student accounts, scheduling flights, conducting stock inventory and preparing study materials for aspiring private pilots. “It was a highly competitive process to secure the internship, since I had to interview with the chief flying instructor of Icarus Flying Acade-

my, Edwin Torres,” DeBono said. “I’m honored and grateful for the opportunity they provided to participate in this internship.” DeBono, who started the inter nship last November, has also contributed to the academy’s Icarus Junior Aviator Program, for children ages 8 to 12. He and fellow intern Emry Anataki, of Plainedge High School, completed activities that are part of the FAA’s Junior Aviator Curriculum, offering feedback and helping create engaging exercises for the younger students. “It feels great, because I know a lot of people are focusing on school and maybe a part-time job, but I’m doing this internship during school hours,” DeBono said. “It’s kind of different, and I’m learning so much.” At Barry Tech, in Westbury, students explore a variety of hands-on career paths. Classes simulate real work environments, from airplane hanCONTINUED ON PAGE 12

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Nonprofit gives backpacks to kindergartners Backpack distribution dates

agrieco@liherald.com

For hundreds of Oceanside kindergartners, a visit to the public library this spring will come with more than a new library card — it will come with a backpack meant to spark a lifelong habit of reading. The Friends of the Oceanside Library, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the library, recently purchased 550 drawstring backpacks for kindergarten students visiting the library this year. The backpacks will be distributed during annual class trips from the Oceanside Kindergarten Center, where students tour the library, sign up for their own cards and select books to borrow. “We thought it would be a great idea to supply each student with a drawstring bag to put their books in since they don’t bring their book bags on their visits,” said Kathy Schirrmacher, president of the Friends of the Oceanside Library. “We figured they can use the bags when they visit the library on their own.” The Friends purchased backpacks for all 518 registered kindergartners, ordering extras in anticipation of additional students enrolling before the visits take place. This year’s kindergarten class will be the first to receive the bags, marking what the group hopes will become a lasting tradition. Schirrmacher said the goal extends beyond convenience. The backpacks are intended to create excitement around reading and help children associate the library

■ March 2, 2026: 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. ■ March 4, 2026: 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. ■ March 5, 2026: 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. ■ March 6, 2026: 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. ■ March 9, 2026: 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. ■ March 20, 2026: 10 a.m. (Special Needs) Courtesy Friends of the Library

Friends of the Oceanside Library purchased 550 drawstring backpacks to give to kindergarten students who will be visiting the library on class trips. with a sense of ownership and belonging. “We hope the backpacks get the children and their families excited about returning to the library after their school visits,” she said. The backpack initiative reflects the broader mission of the Friends, which is a 501(c)(3) organization legally separate from the library. While fundraising remains a central role, the Friends also advocate for the library and support projects that expand

its reach within the community. Among those projects is a permanent Story Walk installation planned for Oceanside Park this spring, funded by the Friends in partnership with the Town of Hempstead. The outdoor display will feature pages of children’s books along a walking path, encouraging early literacy through movement and family engagement. Book titles will rotate throughout the year. The backpacks are part of a larger effort

■ March 23, 2026: 10 a.m. (Special Needs) ■ March 31, 2026: 10 a.m., 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. to help residents of all ages feel connected to the library. “We truly feel the Oceanside Library is a community center for everyone and we strive to foster a connection with everyone who walks through the doors of the library,” Schirrmacher said.

Library revives the art of classic calligraphy By ABIGAIL GRIECO agrieco@liherald.com

In a world dominated by keyb o a r d s a n d t o u c h s c r e e n s, t h e Oceanside Library recently invited residents to slow down and reconnect with the beauty of handwritten a r t t h ro u g h a s p e c i a l p ro g r a m focused on classic calligraphy. “The Art of Classic Calligraphy,” led by local artist and Friends of the Oceanside Library President Kathy Schirrmacher, offered participants a hands-on introduction to the traditional craft of artistic lettering. The Jan. 5 program drew strong interest, filling all 25 available spots and leaving a waiting list of would-be attendees eager to learn. Schirrmacher, who has practiced calligraphy for decades, guided participants through foundational techniques, emphasizing the patience, precision and creativity behind the centuries-old art for m. Attendees practiced classic strokes and letter styles that have historically been used in manuscripts, formal invitations and decorative artwork. “Calligraphy is beautiful,” Schirrmacher said. “It’s the art of drawing letters. I hope people left wanting to continue learning.” Her own journey with calligraphy began early. Schirrmacher received

an award certificate in fifth grade with her name written in elegant script, sparking her curiosity and determination. “I thought, ‘How cool — I think I can do better’,” she said. Schirr macher taught herself by purchasing instr uctional books, pens and practice paper. She built a lifelong love of art and strong handwriting skills developed during her years in Catholic school. Before the class, Schirr macher carefully prepared materials to support different lear ning styles. She created callig raphy alphabets in both uppercase and lowercase for each participant and personalized large index cards by writing each attendee’s name in calligraphy. During the session, she demonstrated each letter step by step on a whiteboard, explaining the process while showing the finished result. “By saying each step, showing each step and letting them practice, everyone could learn in the way that works best for them,” she said. Participants were encouraged to c o n t i nu e p r a c t i c i n g b e yo n d t h e workshop by purchasing their own supplies and starting with something simple — writing their names repeatedly, just as Schirrmacher did when she was lear ning. The class served as a beginner-friendly over-

view designed to inspire further exploration rather than mastery in a single session. Schirrmacher has been doing calligraphy nearly her entire life and uses those skills daily through her home-based business, Lil’ Peanut, where she creates personalized gifts. She added that the positive response from the session has prompted plans for future programming, including a decorative lettering class scheduled for February and potential offerings tailored to tweens. Library staff praised the enthusiasm shown by attendees and the value of preserving traditional creative skills. “Oceanside Library is proud to offer programs that preserve and celebrate creative traditions,” library staff said in a statement. “Calligraphy is a wonderful art form that is not as commonly practiced today, and we were thrilled to see patrons engaged and excited to learn something both timeless and meaningful.” Oceanside Library programs are o p e n t o re s i d e n t s w i t h a va l i d library card and are designed to prom o t e l i f e l o n g l e a r n i n g t h ro u g h accessible and enriching experiences for all ages.

Courtesy Oceanside Library

Participants practiced traditional lettering styles as Kathy Schirrmacher, president of Friends of the Oceanside Library, led a hands-on introduction to the traditional craft of calligraphy at the Oceanside Library on Jan. 5.

OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD — January 15, 2026

By ABIGAIL GRIECO

NEWS BRIEF

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January 15, 2026 — OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD

LIRR, Metro-North set yearly records

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wide growth in MTA ridership in 2025, which saw nearly 1.9 billion trips across all services, including the subway and buses. Gov. Kathy Hochul praised the MTA’s achievements, highlighting the significant improvements in service and ridership across the system. Reflecting on the milestone year, she emphasized how investments in mass transit are driving both performance and growth, benefiting riders and the broader region. “This is what happens when you invest in mass transit: better service, faster trips, and increasing ridership, benefitting the entire region,” she said “[The year] 2025 was a record-breaking year for the MTA and a great year for riders, who took almost two billion trips, powering the entire region. Transit is the lifeblood of New York, and in 2026, we will build on these results to continue improving service, saving New Yorkers precious time and powering our economy.” Improved reliability and record ridership in 2025 were the result of sustained investments in infrastructure and service enhancements, including a focus on increasing subway and bus frequencies and expanding rail services. On the LIRR, for instance, new schedules and more trains helped accommodate the surge in demand, while Metro-North’s modernized “Super-Express” services added new options for commuters. However, as the MTA looks ahead to 2026, fare hikes are on the horizon. Starting Jan. 4, all MTA services—including the LIRR and Metro-North—will see a price increase. This move is intended to help offset rising operational costs and ensure continued improvements to service and infrastructure. — Brian Kacharaba

CRIME WATCH

Generosity )T IS REMARKABLE TO US HOW MANY PEOPLE WE MEET WHO HAVE AMASSED SIGNIlCANT WEALTH BEYOND THEIR NEEDS YET HAVE LITTLE OR NO INCLINATION TO SHARE THEIR GOOD FORTUNE WITH OTHERS EVEN THEIR IMMEDIATE FAMILIES )T SEEMS TO US THAT THE ONLY VALUE THAT ANY ASSET HAS IS IN ITS USE THOSE WHO HAVE ASSETS THEY ARE UNABLE TO UTILIZE ARE REALLY NO BETTER OFF THAN THOSE WHO DON T (OW MUCH RICHER AND HAPPIER MANY LIVES WOULD BE IF ONLY WE LEARNED TO SHARE MORE 3TUDIES IN PSYCHOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE HAVE DEMONSTRATED THAT ACTS OF GENEROSITY TRIGGER A RELEASE OF ENDORPHINS REFERRED TO AS THE hHELPER S HIGHv LEADING TO INCREASED FEELINGS OF HAPPINESS AND SATISFACTION 'ENEROUS ACTS INVOLVE CONSIDERING THE NEEDS OF OTHERS EXPANDING ONE S EMPATHY AND LEADING TO DEEPER CONNECTIONS WITH OTHERS AND A MORE MEANINGFUL AND FULlLLING LIFE 4HIS MAY EXPLAIN WHY THOSE LEAST ABLE TO GIVE ARE SOMETIMES THE MOST GENEROUS 'ENEROSITY HAS LESS TO DO WITH WHAT ONE HAS THAN THE WAY ONE THINKS

The Long Island Rail Road and MetroNorth Railroad capped off 2025 with extraordinary performance and ridership growth, setting new records for both services. The LIRR led the charge with a 9 percent increase in ridership, totaling 81 million customers. In December alone, the railroad hit several milestones, including its highest post-pandemic Saturday ridership with 183,250 riders on Dec. 13, and the highest Sunday ridership since the pandemic with 152,661 riders on Dec. 21. This growth reflects a larger trend throughout the year, as the LIRR reached over 300,000 passengers in a single day on Sept. 24 for the first time since the pandemic. With a 96 percent on-time performance rate, the LIRR also achieved its best reliability score in over a decade, an increase of one percentage point from 2024. Rider satisfaction surged to 81 percent, an 11-point boost from the previous year. Not to be outdone, Metro-North Railroad also posted impressive results. With OTP reaching nearly 98 percent in 2025, MetroNorth achieved its highest levels of reliability in recent years. The railroad carried 69 million riders, a 6 percent increase over 2024, with notable spikes in ridership during the winter holiday season. The week of Dec. 15 saw MetroNorth’s highest post-pandemic ridership, with 827,015 total riders. Metro-North’s “Super-Express” service, launched ahead of schedule on Oct. 5, further enhanced the passenger experience, cutting travel times between Poughkeepsie and Grand Central to under 90 minutes. These gains were part of a larger, region-

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Beach Road in Oceanside.

On Dec. 24, an unnamed individual was arrested for shoplifting at the Old Navy in Oceanside on Long Beach Road. On Jan. 2, Christina Liotta, 47, of Old Bridge, was arrested for shoplifting at Burlington Coat Factory, located at 3640 Long

On Jan. 5, Lashawn Pierre, 30, of Elmont, was arrested for shoplifting at CVS, located at 70 Atlantic Avenue in Oceanside. On Jan. 6, Pamela Oriordan, 52, of Lynbrook, was arrested for shoplifting at the Stop & Shop on Atlantic Avenue in Oceanside.

People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.

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MAIN PHONE: (516) 569-4000 ■ WEB SITE: www.liherald.com/oceanside ■ E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: oceaneditor@liherald.com ■ EDITORIAl DEPARTMENT: Ext. 265 E-mail: oceaneditor@liherald.com ■ SUBSCRIPTIONS: Press ”7” E-mail: subscriptions@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4942 ■ ClASSIFIED ADVERTISING: Ext. 286 E-mail: ereynolds@liherald.com Fax: (516) 622-7460 ■ DISPlAY ADVERTISING: Ext. 249 E-mail: sales@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4643 ■ PUBlIC NOTICES: Ext. 232 E-mail: legalnotices@liherald.com The Oceanside/Island Park Herald USPS 398610, is published every Thursday by Richner Communications, Inc., 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Periodicals postage paid at Garden City, NY 11530 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster send address changes to Oceanside/Island Park Herald, 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Newsstand Price: $1. Annual Subscription Rates, $52 per year autopay or $65 one-time payment within Nassau County or $76 outside of Nassau County. Copyright © 2026 Richner Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

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The Oceanside High School Robotics Club captured second place at a cardboard boat competition hosted by Long Beach High School on Dec. 22, showcasing teamwork, creativity and engineering skill against neighboring schools. The event brought together robotics clubs from Cold Spring Harbor and Long Beach middle and high schools for a hands-on challenge that required students to design, build and race boats constructed entirely of cardboard and tape. Strict guidelines limited materials and construction methods, pushing teams to rely on problem solving and collaboration. Oceanside’s entry, aptly named “What’s Kraken,” stood out for both its speed and durability. The entire Robotics Club participated in the design and construction process, testing multiple ideas before settling on a final build. The result was the most seaworthy vessel in the competition, surviving four full rounds in the water — more than any other boat. Oceanside students Max Goodman and Faith Gelfond piloted “What’s Kraken” during the races. Robotics Club coach Brandon Crofts also climbed aboard, a requirement of the competition Despite the added obstacle, the team recorded the second-fasted overall time, finishing just one second behind the first-place boat.

Luisi honored at football awards dinner

Courtesy Donna Kraus

Oceanside High School teacher Brandon Crofts, left, coached OHS students Max Goodman, center, and Faith Gelfond, who both navigated the “What’s Kraken” to a second-place win at the cardboard boat competition on Dec. 22. The strong finish provided a timely confidence boost for the club as it prepares to enter its official robotics build season, which begins next week. During the build season, students will design and construct a competition robot for the upcoming regional tournament. The Oceanside High School Robotics Club is scheduled to compete March 19-21 at Hofstra University, where teams from across the region will put their robots to the test in a high-stakes engineering competition. — Abigail Grieco

SELLING WITH LOVE

Oceanside High School NCAA coordinator Frank Luisi was honored Dec. 8 at the National Football Foundation awards dinner in Las Vegas, where he received the NFF’s Chapter Leadership Award as the East Region recipient. The national recognition, presented during the foundation’s 67th annual awards ceremony, placed Luisi among just five honorees nationwide recognized this year for exceptional leadership and service to the organization. The event brought together leaders from collegiate and high school athletics to celebrate individuals who exemplify the NFF’s values of academic excellence, leadership and character. For Luisi, the moment marked the culmination of more than five decades of dedication to Oceanside students and nearly four decades of service to the NFF’s Nassau County Chapter. Surrounded by family, colleagues and fellow honorees, “This award is really a testament to all the people I’ve been able to serve,” Luisi said. “I wanted to give back to them and to guide them with the knowledge and insight and understanding that I have and the relationships that I have been able to build because of the people in Oceanside.” As an advisor to the NCAA-bound student-athletes, he has helped countless students navigate the college recruit-

Courtesy Frank Luisi

Oceanside High School NCAA coordinator Frank Luisi was formally honored Dec. 8 at the College Football Hall of Fame’s National Football Foundation awards dinner in Las Vegas. ment process while reinforcing the importance of academics, humility and long-term personal growth. Even after receiving one of the organization’s highest honors, Luisi said his focus remains unchanged. “It’s really just life a gift that I’ve been given by all these people all these years,” Luisi said. “It’s important for me to share it with them and work for them because they’re doing a good greater than themselves.”

— Abigail Grieco

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OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD — January 15, 2026

O’side Robotics Club takes second place at cardboard boat competition

BRINGING LOCAL SPORTS HOME EVERY WEEK

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Sailors weather storm, gain traction By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

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

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

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

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

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

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The Oceanside girls’ basketball team has already shown marked progress from a season ago, reaching the midway point of the winter campaign firmly in the mix for a playoff spot in the competitive Conference AAA-1. The Sailors improved to 5-6 overall and 3-2 in conference play on Jan. 9 by holding off Hicksville, 40-38, in a tightly-contested game. Oceanside built an 11-point halftime lead before Hicksville rallied in the second half, setting up a frantic finish. Senior Karley Handleman converted a layup with a minute left and the Sailors managed to close out the game with a defensive stop to preserve the victory. The win continued a strong turnaround for an Oceanside team that won just three times last season and opened this winter 0-4, with its first three games coming outside the conference. The Sailors’ league opener on Dec. 9 resulted in a 54-40 loss to Uniondale, but the group responded two days later with a seasondefining breakthrough. Oceanside stunned Herricks, 48-46, in overtime on Dec. 11 after trailing 25-17 at halftime and 32-26 after three quarters. The Sailors outscored the Highlanders 5-3 in overtime, with senior Gianna Belone sinking two free throws with 10 seconds remaining to seal the win. The victory sparked a 5-2 run over their last seven games. “I think finally we started to figure out how to come together and play basketball,” head coach Jared Stoler said. “We have a lot of varsity inexperience on the team. It took us a while to kind of get used to the speed of the game.” Offensively, Oceanside has been led by junior Ella Murray, who entered the Hicksville game averaging 14 points per contest and had been the team’s top scorer in seven of the first 10 games. Handleman has provided a steady complement, averaging close to 10 points per game and scoring 10 against Hicksville. “Ella is a freak athlete,” Stoler said. “She does absolutely everything on the floor. She has a motor that is unmatched.

Jeff Wilson/Herald

Junior Ella Murray is setting the offensive pace for Oceanside, leading it in scoring at 14 ppg. Karley, she’s been with us now for three years. She’s someone that I can rely on, someone that’s tough, someone that’s not afraid of anything. “They definitely work well together,” he continued. “They created just a little bit of a Batman-and-Robin type relationship on the floor.” Belone’s impact has extended well beyond scoring. The senior averages close to 10 rebounds per game and has delivered in key moments, including her decisive free throws against Herricks. “I’ve got to give a lot of credit to our

senior, Gianna Belone,” Stoler said. “She’s someone that doesn’t really show up in the stats. She is on the boards. She is just as fierce as any other girl.” Anna Sokoli ranks third on the team at just under six points per game and fellow sophomore Kylie White has stepped into a starting role with junior Bella Marsicano out with a medical issue and has “grown tremendously,” according to Stoler. The Sailors resume conference play at home against Valley Stream Central this Friday at 6:45 p.m. before entering a oneweek break.

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

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

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

Tim Baker/Herald photos

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

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

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

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

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

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Bozek’s art displayed at Oceanside Library CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Greene helped found a fundraising gridiron club to establish a football program at St. Anthony’s High School, in South Huntington Bozek designed the team’s logo — a friar atop a galloping racehorse — an image that remains a symbol of the school. “I think that was maybe my greatest accomplishment,” Bozek said. “To do that and have it last this long — that was something I created that gave a name to their football team.” Outside the newsroom, Bozek painted in a shared Manhattan studio until a city fire marshal shut the space down in 1961. Soon afterward he moved to Smithtown, where his focus shifted to boating. He earned both his captain’s license and a master’s 100-ton rating, captained a charter boat out of Montauk and eventually became president of the Montauk Boatmen and Captains Association — the origin of his enduring nickname, “Captain Bob.” For decades, painting took a backseat. That changed in 2017, when his daughter Meghan, acting as his art manager, asked him to create a triptych of a giant tuna for her home. One painting led to another, and soon Bozek was back at the easel every day. “That started me again,” he recounted. “From 2017 to now, I’ve never stopped painting. I paint every day.” Among the works now on display at the library is Bozek’s evolving “Wizard of Oz” series, including a mosaic-style interpretation of the Yellow Brick Road. The idea came unexpectedly, while he was staring at a blank canvas. “I don’t watch TV — I listen to music,” he said. “Elton John was singing ‘[Goodbye] Yellow Brick Road,’ and I thought, I’ll do that.” Inspired by abstract artist Paul Klee and elements of Piet Mondrian’s Neoplasticism, Bozek constructed a piece using colored rectangles and squares. The series expanded when an art league in Florida, where he spends part of the year, requested green-themed work for an exhibit, promoting Bozek’s depiction of the Wicked Witch of the West. More characters followed, including the Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion, and more are planned. “I’m going to do the whole series,” he said. “Maybe about 10 of them. They have to be shown together.” Bozek, who was a child when “The Wizard of Oz” debuted in 1939, said the film’s shift from black and white to Technicolor left a lasting impression. “We were amazed as kids,” he recalled. “It really stayed with me.” Now dividing his time between Oceanside and Cape Coral, Fla., Bozek continues to paint daily, often working on multiple canvases at once. His creativity also extends to custom-painted sneakers, known as Captain Bob’s Kickz, with pairs now making their way around the globe. More than anything, he said, the art has reconnected him with people from his past. Bozek reconnected with old friends who attended the Jan. 7 recep-

Photos courtesy Oceanside Library

Robert “Captain Bob” Bozek, 90, presented his paintings at an artist’s reception in the Oceanside Library’s lower-level gallery on Jan. 7, including his evolving “Wizard of Oz” collection.

While listening to the radio and painting every day, Bozek heard Elton John’s “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” and, inspired, began working on his own stylistic variation on the Oz theme.

Introducing his work, Bozek shared the story of his life, from being told to give up on art when he was young to continuing his lifelong passion in a variety of forms. tion and presentation, some of whom he hadn’t seen in decades. “It’s brought a lot of us back together again,” he said. “The art community — it’s such a big community. When you think it’s the last time you’ve seen someone, it definitely isn’t.” As visitors moved through the gallery last, Bozek reflected on the latest unexpected turn in his life’s journey. “It’s been very interesting,” he said, “this little trip that I’m taking late in my life.”

Bozek displayed 159 works of art, created primarily with acrylics and abstract techniques, reflecting his lifelong passion for art and storytelling.

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Nicholas DeBono interns in aviation operations CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

gars and carpentry shops to horse stables and culinary kitchens. Instructors are professionals in their fields, and students often go on to college, technical training programs or the workforce after graduation. DeBono is pursuing the business side of aviation rather than aircraft maintenance or museum operations, the other two internship options that were available. “The business side is stuff that comes naturally to me,” he said. His responsibilities at Icarus include learning to use Flight Circle, the system that manages flight schedules and student accounts, as well as inventory and sales of pilot logbooks, apparel and other supplies. “The most challenging part was learning the system, because it’s a lot to keep track of, and we only go once a week,” he said. “But I’m pretty good at using it now.” Exploring the business side of aviation has also given him a new perspective on the industry. “People often see delays or cancellations, and think that’s all there is to flying,” DeBono said. “But from the business side, everything keeps moving. Schedules, student accounts inventory, so many factors go into kee ping everything r unning smoothly, even when flights can’t hap-

Courtesy Nassau BOCES Barry Tech

Nicholas DeBono, a senior at Oceanside High School, is interning at Icarus Flying Academy, aiming to gain knowledge of the business side of the industry while preparing for a future as a pilot. pen.” His initial career interest was in computers and coding, but a family trip to Florida in 2021 sparked his interest in aviation. “That was the first time I’d

been at the airport in a while,” he recalled, “and it was immediately a new interest to me.” DeBono’s internship has also given him the chance to interact with clients

and gain real-world experience. “As an intern, I’ve sent a bunch of emails to help attract more students,” he said. “It’s rewarding to see that I’m making a contribution.” Looking ahead, he said he hopes to pursue a degree in aviation management and eventually fly for a commercial airline. He sees his internship as a way to become familiar with the business side of the industry while preparing for a future as a pilot. “It takes a lot to get there,” DeBono said. “I want to try other things first and learn the business side while I’m still pursuing my flying goals.” He credits both his teachers and his family for their unwavering support. “My teacher at Barry Tech and my parents have been incredible,” he said, emphasizing that their guidance has helped him navigate a complex internship and manage responsibilities that many students might struggle with. His experience at Icarus has offered him a rare look into the industry, and he sees it as a strong foundation for the next chapter of his career development. For DeBono, representing Oceanside High in a professional setting, right before his graduation in June, is a source of pride and motivation. “It’s so exciting to do something unique while still in high school,” he said.

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NEWS BRIEF

Alternate Deputy Minority Leader Debra Mule was sworn in for a fifth term representing Nassau County Legislature District 6 during inaugural ceremonies held on Jan. 8 at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Uniondale. Mule took the oath of office alongside her Democratic Caucus colleagues before an audience of family members, friends and supporters. New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli administered the oath. At the start of the ceremony, Mule also led the hundreds in attendance in singing the National Anthem. The swearing-in ceremony marked the official start of the new legislative term for Nassau County lawmakers. The event drew elected officials, civic leaders and residents from across the county. District 6 includes significant portions of Oceanside and Baldwin as well as the entire village of Freeport. Mule has represented the district since first being elected in 2015 and currently serves as alternate deputy minority leader, a leadership role within the Legislature’s Democratic caucus. “I am deeply humbled that the communities of District 6 have once again entrusted me with the privilege of representing them, and I will do everything in my power to make government work better and more equitably for the people of Nassau County,” Mule said. She also looked ahead to the new legis-

OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD — January 15, 2026

Mule sworn in for fifth term in District 6 Early Childhood Program for 2, 3 & 4 Year Olds

Courtesy Peter M. Budraitis

Alternate Deputy Minority Leader Debra Mule was sworn in for a fifth term representing Nassau County Legislature District 6 during inaugural ceremonies held on Jan. 8 at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Uniondale. lative term, emphasizing collaboration and progress. “Working together, I know that we will accomplish great things in 2026, and I cannot wait to continue this journey of service alongside you,” Mule said. As she begins her fifth term, Mule is expected to continue focusing on issues affecting her South Shore district, including infrastructure, public safety and economic development, while advocating for policies aimed at promoting equity and effective local governance. — Abigail Grieco

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

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

Melissa Berman/Herald

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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*MEET THE 2026 HONOREES* REAL ESTATE AGENT

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

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

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

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

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STEPPING OUT

Join Mickey and friends on their latest adventure By Karen Bloom

Comic showcase

Photos courtesy Feld Entertainment

Search for Tinker Bell through stunning worlds.

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

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

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

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

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

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

OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD — January 15, 2026

Epic moments on ice

January 15, 2026 — OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD JAN

Ladies Night, Karaoke, Open Mic

CALENDAR JAN

Come vibe s every Thursday for LI’s #1 weekly industry mixer featuring special guests, karaoke, open-mic and therapy for the soul! Get ready to unwind and enjoy great food, great music and great company! • Where: The Angle, 2757 Long Beach Road, Oceanside • Time: 6 p.m. • Contact: (516) 806-2188

Island Park Village Board meets

The Island Park Village Board convenes for its regular public meeting to discuss ongoing municipal projects, budget updates and community concerns. Residents are invited to attend and participate. • Where: Village Hall, 127 Long Beach Road, Island Park • Time: 7 p.m.

JAN

Tunes with Acoustifunk

The acoustic duo Acoustifunk appears at EGP Land & Sea. Enjoy improvisational jams of some of your favorites as well as many deep cuts from your favorite artists. • Where: 2 Pettit Place, Island Park • Time: 7-10 p.m. • Contact: (516) 544-2879

JAN

Comic showcase

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

JAN

‘Cold Beer on a Saturday Night’

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

Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out

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

JAN

Tony Iovino Poetry Book Launch

Oceanside Library hosts poet Tony Iovino. “From the Land of Sidewalks and Lawns” invites readers into his reflections on suburban life, heritage and the enduring pull of the American dream. Through vivid, nostalgic poems shaped by postwar suburbia and generations

of immigrant history, Iovino explores the moments, places and people that define a life well lived within reach of New York’s lights and limitless possibility. • Where: 30 Davison Ave., Oceanside • Time: 1-3 p.m. • Contact: oceansidelibrary.com or (516) 766-2360

JAN

Let Freedom Ring with MLK

Visit Long Island Children’s Museum for a workshop honoring Martin Luther King, Jr. Families will learn about MLK beyond his “I Have a Dream” speech and gain a better understanding of his impact on the civil rights movement. Also participate in a gallery walk of images from that era and then create a bell to “let freedom ring.” The program is part of the AdvoKids monthly series that focuses on teaching kids how to advocate for themselves and others and teaching adults how to support their kids’ advocacy efforts. For ages 5 and up. Free with museum admission, but tickets required. • Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

JAN

EGP Oceanside Inauguration Celebration

Support the red, white and blue. With an open bar and passed apps.

• Where: EGP Oceanside, 2823 Long Beach Road, Oceanside • Time: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. • Contact: (516) 766-9547

Beginner Crochet Lessons

Join Pat Silverman, a longtime master crafter and crochet expert, for a relaxed and informative class where you’ll create your own cozy winter hat or beanie. • Where: Friedberg JCC, 15 Neil Court, Oceanside • Time: 1:30-3:30 p.m., also Feb. 3 • Contact: (516) 634-4019

Trivia Night

Barrier Brewing Co. hosts trivia night. Teams will compete in a series of fun, challenging questions across a variety of topics. Bring your knowledge, work together and enjoy a lively, interactive evening. • Where: Barrier Brewing Company, 3001 New Street, Unit A2, Oceanside • Time: 7 p.m., also Jan. 27, Feb. 3, Feb 10, Feb. 17, Feb. 24 • Contact: (516) 594-1028

‘Anastasia The New Musical’

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

JAN

STEM Explorers: Winter Olympics

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

Comedy Night Fundraiser

Friends of the Oceanside Library presents Oceanside Library After Dark, an adults only event. Hosted by Dan Larocco, the comedy night will be a fundraiser to support the library. Barrier Brewery will be here too! • Where: 30 Davison Ave., Oceanside • Time: 7 p.m. • Contact: oceansidelibrary.com or (516) 766-2360

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.

MLK Community Center plans annual tribute agriffin@liherald.com

The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center is calling on residents to come together to celebrate the life and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Mar tin Luther King Jr. through unity, service and remembrance at a special community event. The Rockville Centre-based community center will host its annual c e re m o ny o n Ja n . 1 9 , b r i n g i n g together local leaders, residents and youth to honor the life and enduring legacy of the revered civil rights leader. The prog ram will feature children’s speeches, poetry readings, singing and dance perfor mances, skits and remarks from local elected officials. “I expect a great tur nout,” said Patrick Morris, the director of the community center. “I always look forward to the young people, the children, participating, being able to get in front of a crowd and speak, and then lear ning about Dr. King and other people who were very influential in the civil rights movement.” The day of remembrance has been held annually for more than 20 years, reminding the community of the historic efforts made by King that helped shape America.

TIM BAKER/HERALD

The youth and teen performing arts group of Rockville Centre performed at last year’s ceremony. “In past years, I think it was well received by the people who attended, and I think they enjoyed themselves and were able to lear n some facts about Dr. King they may not have known before,” Morris said. “It was just a great day to celebrate the legacy of a great man who did so much for people.” King also shared a meaningful connection to the local community. In March 1968, less than 10 days

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before he was assassinated, King visited Long Island, marching alongside community activists through the streets of Long Beach and delivering a speech to a crowd at South Side Middle School in Rockville Centre. To honor his legacy as a champion of equal rights in the United States, King’s birthday became a nationally recognized holiday in 1986. As the years pass, newer genera-

tions are beginning to learn about King and his work advocating for African American and Black communities. The annual program provides an opportunity to learn American history outside of a classroom setting. “A lot of information is not taught in schools anymore,” Morris said. “This is an opportunity to really learn more about their culture and what their ancestors and people before them went through in America. It’s also a chance for those with talent, whether singing or dancing, to perform in front of an audience. I think it’s just a great day to celebrate and enjoy.” The program begins at noon at the center, located at 150 N. Centre Ave. All are welcome to attend the free event, and food will be served following the program. “It’s a great day to celebrate Dr. King and his legacy, because there are so many distractions today, especially on social media, and in schools his memory is not always kept alive,” Morris said. “This is an opportunity to do that and pay him the respect he deserves. We want to kee p him present and kee p the dream alive.” For more information about the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, visit RVCNY.gov/MLKCommunity-Center.

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OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD — January 15, 2026

By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN

January 15, 2026 — OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR THE POOLING AND SERVICING AGREEMENT DATED AS OF OCTOBER 1, 2004 MERRILL LYNCH MORTGAGE INVESTORS TRUST MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2004-WMC5, -againstCINDY B SOMMER, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on March 9, 2023, wherein WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR THE POOLING AND SERVICING AGREEMENT DATED AS OF OCTOBER 1, 2004 MERRILL LYNCH MORTGAGE INVESTORS TRUST MORTGAGE LOAN ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2004-WMC5 is the Plaintiff and CINDY B SOMMER, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on February 17, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 411 WANAMAKER ST, OCEANSIDE, NY 11572; and the following tax map identification: 43-219-88. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN OCEANSIDE, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold

subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 006889/2014. Scott H. Siller, Esq. Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 157793

LEGAL NOTICE Please take notice that the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Oceanside Fire District of the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York will hold its monthly meetings for the year 2026 on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:30 P.M. All meetings will take place at the Oceanside Firehouse located at 65 Foxhurst Road, Oceanside, New York 11572. All meetings of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Oceanside Fire District are open to the public. This notice is being posted in accordance with the provisions of section 104 of the Public Officer’s Law of the State of New York. The Board reserves the right to cancel, postpone or reschedule any meeting. By the order of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Oceanside Fire District. Dated: O c e a n s i d e, New York January 5, 2026 Tricia Schields District Secretary Oceanside Fire District 157777 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT.

NASSAU COUNTY. 1900 CAPITAL TRUST II, BY US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS CERTIFICATE TRUSTEE, Pltf. vs RAJA MOHAMMAD IQBAL A/K/A RAJA IQBAL, et al, Deft. Index #611532/2023. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered December 8, 2025, I will sell at public auction on the north side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on February 19, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. premises k/a 2800 Rockaway Avenue, Oceanside, NY 11572 a/k/a Section 38, Block 529, Lot 32. Said property located on the westerly side of Rockaway Avenue, a distance of 78.37 ft. Northerly from the corner formed by the intersection of the Northerly side of Dover Road and the Westerly side of Rockaway Avenue; Running thence NW, a distance of 127.83 feet; Thence NE, a distance of 59.59 feet; Thence SE, a distance of 158.08 ft. to the Westerly side of Rockaway Avenue; Thence Southerly along the Westerly side of Rockaway Avenue, the following 2 courses and distance along the: 1)SW, a distance of 11.33 feet; 2) SW, a distance of 55.34 ft. to the true point or place of beginning. Being and intended to be the same premises described in Deed dated 03/08/2017 Recorded 03/09/2017 in Liber 13482 Page 155. Approximate amount of judgment is $536,281.16 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. JANE P. SHRENKEL, Referee., HILL WALLACK LLP, Attys. for Pltf., 261 Madison Avenue, 9th Floor, Ste. 940-941,

New York, NY. File No. 020292-03136#102724 157788

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. MONICA CORNING A/K/A MONICA FUSCO, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Amending Caption, Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 31, 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 26, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 17 Marina Road, Island Park, NY 11558. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Village of Island Park, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 43, Block 3 and Lot 347. Approximate amount of judgment is $660,228.77 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 604918/2023. Cash will not be accepted. John Riordan, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 157440

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

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NEWS BRIEFS

School No. 2 honors percussionist musician and father Daniel Sadownick as trailblazer School No. 2 students were treated to a special pre-holiday Morning Meeting when professional musician and School No. 2 parent Daniel Sadownick was recognized as a trailblazer and shared his musical journey with the school community on Dec. 23. Sadownick, a percussionist, was nominated for the honor by his daughter, Hannah, a student at the school. Addressing students and staff, Sadownick spoke about growing up in the Bronx and discovering his passion for music at a young age. He credited jazz legends John Coltrane and Miles Davis as early inspirations that helped shape his path toward a professional career in music. “I want every kid to know that dreams are for everyone,” Sadownick told students. “Believe in yourself, even when others say you can’t. Keep trying, work hard and don’t give up.” As part of his presentation, Sadownick introduced students to a variety of percussion instruments from around the world, many with African roots. Instruments included congas, the udu drum, pandeiro, cabasa and the talking drum. He explained how each instrument produces sound and demonstrated different rhythms, encouraging students to actively participate by clapping and snapping along. Sadownick said the congas are his favorite instrument in the percussion family, not-

Courtesy Donna Kraus

School No. 2 father and professional percussionist Daniel Sadownick taught students about percussion and its instruments at a Morning Meeting on Dec. 23. ing their versatility and deep cultural history. The morning concluded with a lively musical performance of the holiday favorite “Jingle Bell Rock.” Sadownick was joined by chorus teacher Joseph Horner on piano, and media, fine and performing arts director Andrew Frey-Gould on bells, bringing the audience to its feet and adding a festive close to the program.

— Abigail Grieco

Courtesy New York State Department of Transportation

Resurfacing the roadway will improve the safety of the road providing smoother grounds in the community.

Design stage of highway project begins Nassau County Legislature Alternate Deputy Minority Leader Debra Mulé announced that a major New York State Department of Transportation (NYS DOT) resurfacing project for Sunrise Highway in Baldwin and Freeport is now in the design phase of its development in a release sent to the Herald on Jan. 12. Upon its completion, the work, spanning a portion of Sunrise Highway from Harrison Avenue in Baldwin to the Wantagh State Parkway, will yield a completely resurfaced roadway and the installation and improvement of sidewalk curb ramps in accordance with current Americans

with Disability Act requirements. Work is tentatively expected to begin this summer. “For South Shore communities, Sunrise Highway is truly one of the backbones of our local transportation infrastructure, and it is essential for it be safe and efficient for both motorists and pedestrians alike,” Mulé said in the release. “These improvements will stimulate the local economy, make our daily commutes easier, and improve our quality of life, and I thank New York State for their continued focus on critical local infrastructure.” — Allyson Ferrari

C1 01/15

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

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

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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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OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD — January 15, 2026

HERALD

January 15, 2026 — OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD

C2 01/15

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A zoning variance for a bigger den?

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

Ask The Architect

ew construction in the heart of Oceanside offering 3,000 sq ft of beautifully designed living space on an 8,000 sq ft mid-block property. This stunning new home offers the ultimate open layout designed for today’s lifestyle. The main level features a formal living room, spacious dining area, and a custom eat-in kitchen with 8-foot island and walk-in pantry. A versatile den, plus a first-floor bedroom and full bath provide flexible living options for guests or extended family. Upstairs you’ll find four generously sized bedrooms, including a luxurious primary suite with a private bath. Three additional bedrooms share a full bathroom, creating the perfect layout, 3 full baths in all. Additional highlights include a one-carattached garage, partial basement for storage, and a prime residential location bordering Rockville Centre. This is your chance to own a brand-new home in one of Oceanside’s most desirable neighborhoods!

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C3 01/15

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OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD — January 15, 2026

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January 15, 2026 — OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD

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Announcements

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Answers to todAy’s puzzle

OPINIONS

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

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

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

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

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

A new year, and a new century, for Island Park

s the final seconds of 2025 ticked away and the clock struck midnight, we were reminded that the new year is more than a change of the calendar. It is a moment of renewal, a collective breath and an invitation to begin again. January has always carried with it a quiet magic, one that whispers of revitalization and renaissance, not MICHAEL only here in McGINTY Island Park, but throughout the world. Looking back on the year behind us, there was much to celebrate. Our village came together time and again, proving that community isn’t just something we talk about, but something we live. From the joy-filled lights and laughter of Winter Wonderland to

the excitement of the Easter Egg Hunt, the music-filled evenings of our summer concerts and the pride and tradition of our Memorial Day Parade, and then our Labor Day Weekend annual fireworks show, 2025 was a year that reminded us who we are. These moments, simple yet powerful, are the threads that bind us together. Now, as we step into 2026, Island Park stands at a truly historic crossroads. This year marks the 100th anniversary of our village’s founding. A century ago, those who came before us dared to imagine something special here. Our first mayor, my predecessor Charles Talbot, shared a vision of Island Park that was rooted in progress while never losing sight of the values that mattered most — community, pride and belonging. That vision continues to guide us today, adapting

with the times while remaining firmly anchored in our shared love for this village. I am deeply honored to serve as mayor during such a pivotal moment in Island Park’s history. It is a responsibility I do not take lightly. I often look to yesterday — to the hopes, dreams and determination of those who built the village — and I strive to build on their foundation. Progress doesn’t mean forgetting where we came from; it means honoring it by carrying their vision forward. That lesson was instilled in me long before I took office. My father, Deputy Mayor Frank McGinty, dedicated much of his life to Island Park. His love for this community shaped my own. From him I learned that public service isn’t about titles or terms, but about making the village a place where people

y hope is that we continue to value connection as much as progress.

are proud to live, work and raise a family. I am grateful to continue enhancing the ideas and aspirations he believed in, and to serve alongside so many who share that same commitment. As we begin our second century, my hope is that we remain a village that values connection as much as progress. A place where neighbors are friends, friends are family, and community is our greatest strength. One hundred years from now, when future generations look back on this moment, I pray they will say that we did our best — that we cared deeply, led thoughtfully and preserved the spirit that makes Island Park a destination not just on a map, but in the heart. May the new year bring health, happiness and continued unity to all who call Island Park home. Together, let’s make 2026 a year worthy of our past and full of promise for our future. Michael McGinty is the mayor of Oceanside.

OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD — January 15, 2026

Cardinal Dolan retires, and an era has passed

HERALD

HERALD EDITORIAL

AbigAil grieco Reporter

Long Island’s priorities are bipartisan

January 15, 2026 — OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD

Oceanside/island park

Established 1966 Incorporating the Oceanside Beacon and Record of Oceanside in 2001

JeNNiFer reNDA Multi Media Marketing Consultant oFFice 2 Endo Boulevard Garden City, NY 11530 Phone: (516) 569-4000 Fax: (516) 569-4942 Web: www.liherald.com E-mail: oceaneditor@liherald.com oFFiciAl NeWSPAPer: Island Park Public School District

HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

Cliff Richner Publisher, 1982-2018 Robert Richner Edith Richner Publishers, 1964-1987 ■ STUArT ricHNer Publisher ■ JeFFrey beSSeN

Managing Editor JorDAN VAlloNe

Deputy Managing Editor Jim HArmoN

Copy Editor KAreN bloom Features/Special Sections Editor ToNy belliSSimo Sports Editor Tim bAKer Photo Editor ■ rHoNDA glicKmAN Vice President - Sales Amy AmATo Executive Director of Corporate Relations and Events lori berger Sales Director elleN reyNolDS Classified / Inside Sales Director

■

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

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

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

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

OPINIONS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FRAMEWORK by Tim Baker

ANTHONY BRANCATO East Meadow

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

OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD — January 15, 2026

Mets and Yankees fans know plenty about chopped liver

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January 15, 2026 — OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD