Bellmore Herald 12-19-2024 by Richner Communications, Inc

‘All

Aboard’ the Polar Express!

The Bellmore-Merrick community gathered at the Brookside School on Dec. 14 for the 10th Polar Express event, sponsored by the Nassau County Lions. Children from around the county and beyond received toys, goodies, toiletries and more as they ‘boarded’ the train and went from station to station.

Right, Lynn Coyle, principal of Park Avenue School in the North Bellmore School District, with Nina Lanci, a longtime North Bellmore school board member and founding member of the Polar Express. Above, members of Mepham High School’s Leo’s Club Gulsham Singh, Samira Ramoutar, Samar Ahmad and Areeba Shahid manned a station inside the school. Story, more photos, Page 3.

Students learn good business at annual challenge

By JoSEPH D’AlESSANDRo jdalessandro@liherald.com

Competition between 25 teams of three students tested their professional skills before local business leaders at the annual Bellmore-Merrick Business Challenge on Dec. 5.

The 75 high school students were selected from the three participating schools: Sanford H. Calhoun High School, John F. Kennedy High School, and Wellington C. Mepham High School. The competition took place at the Brookside School, the district’s headquarters, in North Merrick.

principal at Calhoun, served as his school’s representative chairperson for the BMBC.

“It’s a great opportunity across the board,” Melkonian said. “The kids hear the realworld application of what they’re learning in school. That’s what this event is trying to shine a light on.”

The business competition started seven years ago, adding a live, practical experience to the district’s business education program.

I believe business is the foundation for all education and entrepreneurship.

MARk MElkoNIAN

Assistant principal Calhoun High School

Each team was assigned one of five topics to create a brief pitch about either retail marketing, sports and entertainment marketing, hospitality services, entrepreneurship, or technology. The competition requires teammates to think critically about the prompts they are given, create a pitch, present it, and answer the judges’ questions within one hour.

Mark Melkonian, assistant

“I believe business is the foundation for all education and entrepreneurship,” Melkonian said. “I want to grow that business mindset in our district. There is a connection between what you need to be successful in high school, and what you need to be successful in college and ultimately successful in the business world.”

Before and after the competition, the district provided other educational and career-building activities such as an inspirational presentation by key -

Continued on page xx

Steve Sachs/Herald photos

Chabad ready for Hanukkah, fundraising to close out year

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

Families from Merrick, Bellmore, and Wantagh will come together on Dec. 25 to celebrate Hanukkah in a lively and heartwarming event hosted by the Chabad Center for Jewish Life. The Hanukkah Experience, a cherished community tradition, brights together hundreds of attendees for an evening filled with joy, light, and togetherness.

The festivities will begin at 5 p.m. at the Merrick Gazebo for the 19th Annual Grand Menorah Lighting. Students from the Alan & Tatyana Forman JELC Preschool and the Chabad Hebrew School will captivate the audience with their special Hanukkah performances, while local dignitaries and community leaders participate in the lighting ceremony.

At 5:20 p.m., the Great Menorah Parade will set off from the gazebo, winding through the streets of Merrick as participants make their way to the Chabad Center for Jewish Life. The parade will be filled with decorated vehicles, delighting spectators along the route.

Once at the Chabad Center, attendees will be treated to a warm and welcoming Kosher Hanukkah Chinese dinner at 5:30 p.m. The meal will be accompanied by traditional Hanukkah treats, including crispy latkes and sweet donuts, and activities for all ages. Guests can choose from three movie rooms tailored to adults, school-age children, and preschoolers or participate in creative Hanukkah crafts.

“Hanukkah is a holiday that enriches our lives with the light of tradition,” Rabbi Shimon Kramer, director of the Chabad Center for Jewish Life, said. “In ancient times, our ancestors rededicated the Temple in Jerusalem with the Menorah. This year, through the Hanukkah Experience, we hope to rededicate ourselves to making this world a better and brighter place. We are thrilled to share the light and joy of Hanukkah with the community through parades, performances, and meaningful gatherings.”

Kramer also highlighted the universal message of Hanukkah, which transcends faith and culture: the triumph of good over evil, freedom over oppression, and light over darkness. As part of Chabad’s global Hanukkah outreach initiative, the Merrick celebration joined thousands of similar events organized worldwide — from major cities like New York and Hong Kong to remote areas in Africa and South America.

“Now more than ever, coming together as a community is essential,” Kramer said. “Our event is warm, friendly, and open to all, with no synagogue membership or affiliation required. We are proud to offer a space where everyone can feel included in the spirit of the holiday.”

The evening’s festivities are free, with a suggested donation of $18 per person for dinner. Event co-sponsorships, starting at $54, helps support the vibrant celebration. For more information about the Chabad Center for Jewish Life and its upcoming programs, contact the organization at

file

The Chabad Center for Jewish Life will host a vibrant Hanukkah celebration on Dec. 25 in celebration of the first night of the holiday. A parade will travel through the streets of Merrick. Above, the menorah that will be lit at the Merrick Gazebo.

(516) 833-3057 or visit ChabadJewishLife. org/Light.

The Chabad of Merrick-BellmoreWantagh has launched its annual yearend fundraising campaign, “Be a Match –Spark the Light,” with a goal of raising $300,000 in three days to support community initiatives.

The campaign kicked off on Dec. 17 at 10 a.m. and ran through Dec. 19, offering the community an opportunity to come together to make a meaningful impact. With the support of matching donors Alan and Tatyana Forman and Eliezer and Yetta Putter, every dollar contributed will be tripled, multiplying the impact of donations to support programs and services that strengthen the Merrick-Bellmore-Wantagh community.

The money raised during the campaign will fund several vital initiatives. It will support the construction of a new toddler playground at the Alan and Tatyana Forman JELC Preschool and Camp Gan Israel, providing a safe, engaging space for young children to develop physical and social skills. A modern space will be built to house the Bernard Pechter Kosher Food Pantry and the Cindy Knoll Circle of Hope Dress for Recovery program, offering a welcoming environment for those in need, along with a teacher’s lounge to support educators. Scholarships will be provided for Jewish education, ensuring more children can attend the Alan and Tatyana Forman JELC Preschool, Ckids After School Program, Chabad Hebrew School, and Camp Gan Israel of Merrick. Finally, funds will help expand programs that spread warmth, foster unity, and strengthen Jewish values, reaching even more individuals in the community.

“This campaign is about more than fundraising — it’s about sparking hope, joy, and compassion,” Kramer said. “Every contribution will create meaningful change, and thanks to our matching donors, it will be multiplied by three.”

Jordan Vallone/Herald

A decade of giving back, Polar Express returns

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

For the 10th year in a row, Santa’s sled was filled and bursting with toys, warm clothing, and goodies as the Nassau County Lions Club hosted its 10th annual Polar Express Children’s Holiday Party on Dec. 14 at the Brookside School in North Merrick.

Over 1,000 toys, gifts and additional household items were distributed to local children in need this holiday season. Families from Nassau County and Long Island were invited to the free train-themed event to celebrate the milestone anniversary.

Our motto is ‘We Serve,’ and this is part of our service to the community.

NiNA L ANci

Polar Express founder Bellmore Lions

The Lion’s motto, “We Serve,” has been the driving force behind the event since its inception. Lions members and their families from clubs throughout Long Island have been gathering gifts and donations for weeks under the leadership of Lion Past District Governor Nina Lanci, who helped create the event a decade ago.

Lanci told the Herald that previously, the Lions would host a smaller Christmas party, but she and other members really saw the need to broaden the group’s outreach.

“Our motto is ‘We Serve,’” she said, “and this is part of our service to the community, and serving the betterment of humanitarianism.”

Families who attended Saturday’s event were not only treated to new toys and sweets, but things like warm jackets, pajamas, gloves, and more. Financial support and donations from other Lions Clubs, as well as local organiza -

The Polar Express returned to the Brookside School in North Merrick on Dec. 14, an event hosted by the

families

those in need.

tions, were used to purchase additional items such as toothbrushes, socks, underwear, and shampoo for both the children and their parents.

“This year we are seeing more families than ever before who can barely make ends meet,” said Lanci, who’s also on the North Bellmore School District’s and Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District’s boards of education.

“People are struggling in our local communities to simply put food on their table. There are parents working two and three jobs just to support their family, pay the mortgage or rent, or even buy warm clothes for their children. There is nothing left over for extras.”

When the event began 10 years ago, Lanci hoped they could help at least 50 families. Since then, it has grown to serve thousands of children and families.

Lanci emphasized that the event is a community effort, with volunteers, businesses, and organizations all playing a role in making it happen.

“This event is a collaborative effort,” Lanci said. “We work with local and county offices, local businesses, as well as the school system. We’re a caring community and we know given the state of the economy, any of us could find ourselves in this same position during the holidays. If we can make the holidays brighter for those in need, and create a special memory for even one family, then we’ve

and halls

served our community well.”

Lanci, who originally conceived of the Polar Express theme, noted that it has been a hit with children ever since. While attending the event, each child is issued a boarding ticket to wear as they travel to various “stops” throughout the event, which culminates with a visit to Santa Claus and a brand-new toy, along with other goodies. Volunteers play the part of elves and helpers, and there’s even a “Mr. & Mrs. Conductor” to keep the excitement going all day long.

“It’s hard to believe it’s been 10 years,” Lanci said. “There’s a lot of moving parts to putting this whole thing together, but when you see that look on a child’s face when they get a gift from Santa, the weeks, days, and hours of planning that go into this event is all worth it.”

For more on the Lions and its work throughout the year, visit Lions20K2. com.

Steve Sachs/Herald

Nassau County Lions to bring joy to children and

during the holiday season. The auditorium

of the school were filled to the brim with items set to be distributed to

Volunteers with the Bellmore Lions helped hand out gifts to children who attended Saturday’s event.

Matthew Neal received a new bike from Danielle Kalinowski at this year’s Polar Express.

Volunteer Lisa Schneider hung out with George Fillios, who dressed up at Santa Claus for the Polar Express.

Business owner admits to endangering employees

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

A Bellmore man and his corporation have pleaded guilty to endangering employees by exposing them to hazardous mercury levels without proper protections.

Robert Peyser, 66, of Bellmore, and his company, Kessler Thermometer Corp., based in West Babylon, admitted to reckless endangerment charges after failing to implement health and safety measures, despite prior warnings about mercury exposure. The findings violated Occupational Safety and Health Administration and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standards.

“Despite being notified that an employee was suffering from mercury poisoning, this defendant and his corporation continued to put their employees’ health, and lives, at risk,” Robert Tierney, the Suffolk County District Attoney, said. “I thank our detectives in the Suffolk County Police Department’s District Attorney Squad, as well as the EPA and OSHA, for their efforts to ensure that these defendants were held responsible for their actions.”

On Aug. 29, 2022, several employees of Kessler Thermometer Corp. were exposed to mercury — a hazardous neurotoxin — after a significant spill at the worksite. When mercury is not cleaned properly, it can vaporize, resulting in severe damage to the nervous system, lungs, kidneys, and heart. Employees who worked daily with mercury while manufacturing thermometers were not provided with proper ventilation, protective gear, or cleaning supplies.

In the weeks following the spill, multiple workers displayed symptoms consistent with mercury poisoning and were treated at North Shore University Hospital and Long Island Jewish Medical Center. Blood and urine

tests revealed elevated mercury levels in four employees. One worker required a permanent pacemaker due to heart issues, while another fell into a coma and now requires an oxygen tank to breathe. Other employees suffered from memory loss and fatigue.

Investigators learned that in July 2020, Peyser had been notified by a physician that one employee had toxic mercury exposure. The physician recommended implementing safety procedures to protect workers, but Peyser failed to act. During his plea, Peyser admitted that he did not meet legally required safety measures to protect employees.

On Oct. 18, Kessler Thermometer Corp. pleaded guilty to Reckless Endangerment in the First Degree, a Class D felony. As part of the plea deal, the corporation must pay $75,000 in fines, in addition to a $97,000 civil penalty for OSHA violations.

Peyser pleaded guilty to reckless endangerment, a misdemeanor. On Dec. 13, he was sentenced to probation, requiring compliance with health and safety standards set by OSHA, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Failure to comply could result in up to one year in jail.

“Kessler Thermometer Corp. knowingly endangered the lives and health of their employees by ignoring basic safeguards,” OSHA Area Director Kevin Sullivan said. “This company has been operating for about 20 years and knows the dangers their workers face.”

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Adriana Noyola of the Biological Environmental Animal Safety Team, with Detective Thomas Smith and the Suffolk County Police Department’s District Attorney Squad conducting the investigation. Peyser and Kessler Thermometer Corp. were represented by attorney Michael Brown.

the Fear and Do It Anyway”

Emerson, who wrote a great deal about overcoming fear, said: “Do not be too timid and squeamish about your actions. All life is an experiment and the more experiments the better. What if they are a little coarse and you may get your coat soiled and torn? What if you do fail, and get fairly rolled in the dirt once or twice? Up again, you shall never be so afraid of a tumble.”

Author Jeffers’ book explains that until you fully understand that you, and no one else, create what goes on in your head, you will never be in control of your life. When you blame any outside force for any of your experiences of life, you are literally giving away your power thus creating pain, paralysis and depression. Always ask yourself what am I doing or not doing that is causing this to happen to me. You don’t have to condone the behavior of others, but simply not to allow it to be the source of your upset. Jeffers teaches how to overcome your biggest enemy — your “chatterbox” and replace it with a loving

internal friend. “It is reported that over 90% of what we worry of never happens,” says Jeffers. We create our own reality.

The author moves on to decision-making and the fear of making the wrong decision. Here, she explains how there are no “wrong” decisions. Your writer has often advised clients that it is better to make the “wrong” decision than none at all. You learn from mistakes -- you learn nothing from inaction. Learn and correct or, as Emerson said, “The voyage of the best ship is a zigzag line of a hundred tacks.”

Jeffers writes that there is a lightness to positive people. They have learned not to take themselves so seriously and they are a joy to be around -- they are those who have learned to make lemonade out of lemons. As Emerson rightly said, “We seldom see anybody who is not uneasy and afraid to live.” By adopting the lessons in “Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway”, you too can become one of those seldom found people.

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Courtesy Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office

Robert Peyser of Bellmore and his company, Kessler Thermometer Corp., based in West Babylon, pleaded guilty to endangering employees by exposing them to hazardous levels of mercury, a neurotoxin.

Susan Jeffers — Part Two

Honoroing hometown heroes

Crunch Fitness of Bellmore employees Samantha Devine and Anthony Riggio were presented with the Town Hometown Hero Award by Hempstead Town Councilman Chris Schneider and Town Clerk Kate Murray for their quick actions in performing CPR to save the life of a member who went into cardiac arrest while exercising. The victim has since made a full recovery. State Senator Steve Rhoads and Congressman Anthony D’Esposito also attended the ceremony.

Grand Avenue

Middle School

Anthony Apicella

Dhrubojeet Das

Spencer Deutch

Billie Gazsy

Zachary Hoberman

Katie Lin

Giovanni Loccisano

Averie Malerba

Gia Ricci

Andrew Vargas

Merrick Avenue

Middle School

Hope Brugge

Kylie Cohen

Cammy Coughlin

Chloe Dorfman

James Duffy

Dylan Frank

Gabrielle Hassenbein

Anna Konigsberg

Rocco Marino

Sanford H. Calhoun High School

Wilson Sanchez Aguilera

Rylie Sena

Sebastian Solis

Shayna Zaslansky

John F. Kennedy High School

Camilla De La Cruz-Baldera

Katie Giannaris

Aiden Miller

Jacob Reese

Meadowbrook

Alternative Program

Patrick Iannotta

Prep Academy

Nicholas Russo

Wellington C. Mepham High School

Xavier Andino

Brooke Ansaldi

Samira Ramoutar

Scarlett Wilson

Pollo Campero opens its doors

Pollo Campero, located on Sunrise Highway in Merrick, celebrated its grand opening last month. Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin attended the event, along with Director of Operations Brian Murphy, General Manager Marvin Osegueda, and members of the Merrick Chamber of Commerce.

Courtesy Town of Hempstead

HERALD SchoolS

Bellmore-Merrick named sportsmanship award recipient

The Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District was recently named a Sportsmanship Promotion Program Award recipient by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association.

Each year, NYSPHSAA presents the Sportsmanship Promotion Banner Award to schools that have developed proactive approaches in keeping sportsmanship in the forefront with their students, coaches, spectators and communities. Winners are decided based off their Sportsmanship Promotion survey, a tool built to assist athletic departments in examining their policies and procedures used to promote positive sportsmanship within their athletic community.

“This award is not merely about a trophy or recognition,” Eric Caballero, the district director of physical education, athletics, driver education and health, said. “It is about the core values that shape our student-athletes and define the spirit of competition-integrity, respect, teamwork, and resilience. It is about creating an environment where our athletes not only strive for success on the field but also embody the values that prepare them to be leaders off the field.”

Caballero was also recently named as the 2024 New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance Director of the Year.

At the Dec. 4 board of education meeting, Caballero presented the award to the district’s five athletic directors; Craig Papach of John F. Kennedy High School, Dr. William Murphy of Wellington C. Mepham High School, Peter Palazzo of Sanford H. Calhoun High School, Benja-

Superintendent of Schools Michael Harrington, Eric Caballero, district director of physical

er education and health, Craig Papach, athletic director of John F. Kennedy High School, Benjamin

athletic director of Grand Avenue Middle School, William Murphy, athletic director of Wellington C.

Peter Palazzo, athletic director of Sanford H. Calhoun High School, and Nancy Kaplan, board president at the Dec. 4 board meeting.

min Fisher of Grand Avenue Middle School and Pat Fallon of Merrick Avenue Middle School.

“Our athletic coordinators have gone above and beyond in their efforts to uphold these principles,” he added. “They have fostered programs that encourage respect for opponents, officials, and the game itself. They have cultivated a culture where sportsmanship is not just encouraged but celebrated as a cornerstone of every

team’s identity.”

This recognition by the NYSPHSAA reflects the countless hours of dedication, planning, and passion Athletic Coordinators invest in their athletic programs.

“Their leadership inspires our coaches, motivates our athletes, and brings pride to our entire district,” Caballero said.

—Jordan Vallone

Courtesy Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District

education, athletics, driv-

Fisher,

Mepham High School,

BELLMORE HERALD — December 19, 2024

Business competition puts students to the test

note speaker Joseph Di Salvo and a college meet-and-greet, allowing students to introduce themselves to professors and administrators from eight top universities in New York. The event’s networking lunch was provided by Piccolo Ristorante in Bellmore, paired with a holiday-themed musical accompaniment by members of the Calhoun’s Orchestra Ensemble.

“They are giving their expertise, their knowledge and their mentorship to our kids,” Melkonian said of the speaker and participating colleges.

Di Salvo, founder and managing partner of Di Salvo Howard PLLC, is also an adjunct professor at the New York University Stern School of Business. One of his favorite parts of his work is offering guidance to young people at the start of their careers, he said.

Di Salvo’s presentation encouraged students to approach their careers in a way that will bring them success and satisfaction.

“I emphasized to them that it’s not about having the right answers, it’s about asking the right questions,” Di Salvo said. “When you start thinking about your career, you (might) start thinking about it solely as a question of income, but if you think about it instead as a question of outcome, you’re going to be better situated to live a life where you feel like you’ve got value.”

Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald

the winning students, judges, and teachers of the Bellmore-merrick Business Competition. the competition tested students’ skills learned in their business classes.

Students preparing for college will have to make critical, career-shaping choices, Di Salvo said.

“The best part of educating high school students is letting them realize that what’s happening now is going to mean something for the rest of their lives,” he explained. “Doing it through business is the best way to do it and having exposure and training and education around that early really sets them up for success later.”

The contest featured local business owners, elected officials, and representatives from colleges as judges. Colleges

represented were Adelphi University, LIU Post, and Queens College. Each team’s presentation was judged by its thoroughness and quality of delivery.

State Sen. Steve Rhoads and County Legislator Michael Giangregorio returned as judges for this year’s competition.

“This program is fantastic,” Giangregorio said, “because it gives these young people an opportunity to see what life is like beyond high school, and to branch out and expand from their comfort level in dealing with perfect strangers and having to answer questions.

“The students just get better and better. They are engaging, the eye contact is there and their personality shines through. I’m impressed by the caliber of these students; it gives me such faith that the world is going to be in good hands.”

“Working together, collaborating together, is key to being a successful team,” Rhoads said in his closing remarks to students. “You’re not only pitching your idea, you’re pitching yourselves as people who can execute that idea.”

The winning teams were announced at the end of the event and were awarded gold medals to celebrate their business acumen.

“We all did good, we all pulled through working together as a team,” Mepham junior Peter Kanellopoulos said.

He was a member of the winning team for the Sports and Entertainment Marketing category.

Calhoun senior and Giavannah Posner and Mepham junior Thomas Augugliaro won in Retail Marketing.

“For our team, we were given a business that we had to use marketing strategy for, we had to make it different from everyone else’s and make it successful, so we made it an international kind of thing,” Posner said.

“It’s an honor,” Augugliaro said of winning the competition.

HERALD NEIGHBORS

Festive fun ahead of holidays at Samanea Mall

The Samanea Mall transformed into a winter wonderland on Dec. 14 for its third annual Christmas Village, Fair and Market, and the holiday festivities will continue on next weekend.

The free event offers something for everyone, with highlights including photos with Santa, arts and crafts, and sweet treats available for purchase. Children can enjoy free gifts, while shoppers browse more than 50 unique vendors offering a variety of goods and holiday finds.

The Christmas Village has become a beloved seasonal tradition at the shopping center, providing families and visitors with a festive experience to celebrate the spirit of the season.

The event is free to attend, and doors will open again on Dec. 21, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., for another day of holiday fun. The mall is at 1500 Old Country Road, Westbury.

–Jordan Vallone

Holden Leeds/Herald photos

Families flocked to the Samanea Mall in Westbury on Dec. 14 for a festive holiday fair. Theo Kritikos, Raqueba Secharan, Marina Moreno, Gabriella Kritkos, 12, and Nicholas Moreno, 10, had fun in some of the mall’s holiday displays.

Holiday vendors made shopping for gifts easy and fun. Madelyn Maratea of Revel Wellness USA manned a booth on Dec. 14.

Aside from shopping, children were also able to create fun holiday crafts. Raqueba Secharan showed off a handcrafted Christmas tree.

Gabriella Kritikos, 12, showed off some fun, holidaythemed glasses, meant for drinking hot-cocoa.

Friends Joselyn Crus, Sheyla Bonilla, Jackie Muldoon and Jane Sawyer had a blast exploring the Christmas village.

Merry Christmas to the people of God

Last Christmas, we celebrated the 800th anniversary of that glorious and historic night when St. Francis of Assisi arranged the first Nativity creche scene in a small cave outside the Italian village of Greccio in Italy.

St. Francis was inspired to do this after visiting the historical place of Christ’s birth on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land - the humble stable in a Bethlehem cave.

The large creche set in St. Peter’s Square last year commemorated this 800th anniversary by having the figure of St. Francis of Assisi expressing adoration, awe and wonder across the Crib from Mary and Joseph.

Last September, we celebrated the 800th Anniversary of St. Francis receiving the gift of the “stigmata”the mystical wounds of Christ in his hands, feet and side. In 2026, we will celebrate the 800th anniversary of St. Francis’ death.

There is always a powerful connection between the Manger Crib and the Golgotha Cross of our Savior. St. Francis of Assisi lived this connection so powerfully.

In Admirabile Signum, Pope Francis writes: “Indeed, the place where this first nativity scene was enacted expresses and evokes these sentiments...from the time of its Franciscan origins, the nativity scene has invited us to ‘feel’ and ‘touch’ the poverty that God’s Son took upon himself in the Incarnation. Implicitly, it summons us to follow him along the path of humility, poverty and self-denial that leads from the manger of Bethlehem to the Cross. It asks us to meet him and serve him by showing merey to those of our brothers and sisters in great need (ef. Matthew 25:31-46).” (3)

and in all countries.

St. Francis of Assisi understood the problems of the world and more than 800 years later, after he created the first creche, he is still close to the Church and to the world.

As we spiritually draw near to Bethlehem at the end of this year, we pray for those who suffer in the Holy Land and the Middle East, in Ukraine and all war-torn areas of the world.

We pray too for the persecuted Church around the world and we pray for religious liberty in our country

symbol of the universal Church, amidst the storms and earthquakes of history and crisis.

Many of you have seen the bronze statue of Atlas directly across from St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City.

It was created by the sculptor Lee Lawrie and installed in 1937. The sculpture portrays the mythical ancient Greek Titan Atlas holding the burden of the heavens on his shoulder.

St. Francis of Assisi is no myth, but at times he has been compared with Atlas in how, through the centuries, he carried the burdens of the Church on his shoulders with his radical and pure Gospel witness.

In fact, Pope Innocent III, after meeting St. Francis, had a dream that St. Francis was holding up St. John Lateran Basilica, the visible sign and

Configured to Christ crucified and having lived daily with the stigmatic wounds of Christ, St. Francis helps to animate and inspire the mission of mercy of the Catholic Church through the centuries.

St. Francis of Assisi intercedes for each of us at every moment to help rebuild the Biblical and Eucharistic evangelizing mission of the Church that Jesus, himself, founded on Long Island and beyond.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your families! May the Light and Love of the Christ Child animate and guide our global Catholic Missionary Spirit this Christmas and throughout the New Year.

Sincerely in Christ,

Most Reverend John O. Barres

Bishop of Rockville Centre

The Most Reverend John O. Barres is the Bishop of the Diocese of Rockville Centre.

ReveRend

John o. BaRRes

Happy HolidaysBlessed be

The fresh snow is melting, holiday signs and warm lights dazzle the streets as I sit to write this article. The markets are buzzing with shoppers loading their carts with decorations and gifts.

I stretch in the comfort of my office chair and reflect on the idea of freedom. Freedom of speech and freedom of religion are two that come to mind, the foundation of our beloved country. How delightful it is to live in a democracy that allows everyone to practice their religion without being ridiculed or forced to hide their identity.

The story of Hanukkah amplifies the need for these privileges. It is a tale of a triumph of light over darkness, good vs. evil. The Jewish people were prohibited to study and learn the five books of Moses

and were commended by the Greeks to abstain from any Jewish practices. To avoid being caught, the Jewish children were supplied with toys, spinning dreidels. Whenever the Greek soldiers approached the children pulled their dreidels out and played.

For eight days, the holiday of Hannukah commemorates the miracles that happened in this era. Candles are lit, dreidels are played, and special food is eaten. Often, like this year, Hanukkah coincides with Christmas and Kwanzaa. This is the beauty of our country. Yes, it is a “melting

pot,” a vibrant and colorful one!

We are reminded of the Pilgrims who boarded the Mayflower and came to America to pursue religious independence from the Church of England. They vowed to be free to practice their religion and speak their mind. It isn’t a coincidence that the first amendment clarifies just that. FREEDOM!

Being free to practice our spiritual convictions is a gift that was handed down to us by the founders of this country. It is crucial and essential for us to carry down this torch and continue implementing the first amendment in the

spirit of those who wrote it. We should respect any faithgroup or non-religion and remember to look out of our comfort zone and see beauty in every credence. My congregation was honored to host an interfaith service a couple of weeks ago. The harmony of the prayers of several groups of faiths was unmatched. Peace relies on the principle of respecting others and their beliefs, so in this holiday season I invite you to enjoy the lights and happiness in your home, with your friends and family and in our brilliantly decorated streets!

Happy Holidays!

Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum, PhD

Rabbi Moshe Weisblum is the spiritual leader of Congregation Beth Tikvah.

STEPPING OUT

Merry eatings

‘Tis the season for a

By Karen Bloom

ost of us would agree that there’s almost nothing better than the aroma of fresh-baked goodies wafting through the house. Especially during holiday time. Nothing says “love” like fresh baked cookies and treats. So give the gift of homemade goodness, whether it’s a gift platter or by hosting family and friends for a cookie exchange. Everyone can get in on the act and share their creations all around.

Your gang will enjoy tasting these luscious creations in your makeshift holiday workshop.

Chocolate Mint Squares

Notes of crisp peppermint perfectly complement the ﬂavors of coffee in this festive alternative to a brownie. Add some crushed peppermint to each cookie to create a beautiful and seasonal presentation.

Dough

• 1/3 cup baking chocolate or unsweetened chocolate

• 1/2 cup (8 tablespoons) butter

• 1 cup sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1/2 cup unbleached all-purpose ﬂour

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chopped pecans, optional

• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract or peppermint oil

Frosting

• 2 cups confectioners’ sugar or glazing sugar

• 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) melted butter

• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract or peppermint oil

• 2 tablespoons milk

Glaze

• 3 tablespoons baking chocolate or unsweetened chocolate

• 1 tablespoon butter

Garnish

• 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9” x 9” pan.

To make the dough: In a double boiler, or in a microwave, melt together the chocolate and butter. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, beat together the sugar, salt and eggs.

Add the chocolate mixture, stirring to combine, then the ﬂour, nuts and peppermint, mixing until well-blended.

Pour the batter into the pan. Bake the squares for 25 minutes. Remove them from the oven, and

‘Holiday Joy’

cool to room temperature. Remove them from the oven, and cool to room temperature. While cooling make the frosting and glaze.

To make the frosting: In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar, melted butter or margarine, peppermint and milk. Spread the frosting over the cooled squares in a thin layer.

To make the glaze: In a double boiler, or in a microwave, melt together the chocolate and butter or margarine. Drizzle this over the frosted squares, and sprinkle with the crushed peppermint candy. Refrigerate the squares until they’re well-chilled. To serve, cut into 1 1/2” squares.

Dreidel Hanukkah Cookies

You can’t spin these dreidels, but you sure can gobble them up. The versatile dough that can be customized to create chocolate or colored cookies.

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose ﬂour

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2/3 cup sugar

• 1 large egg

• 1 tablespoon light corn syrup

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• Dreidel-shaped cookie cutter

• Piping bag

• Blue frosting

Cookie dough

In a medium-size bowl, mix the ﬂour and salt. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar, stir in the egg, then the corn syrup and vanilla extract. One third at a time, add the ﬂour mixture until thoroughly mixed.

Pat the dough into two disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours, or until ﬁrm enough to roll. If it is too ﬁrm, soften at room temperature for 5 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 375° F. Roll one disk of dough between two pieces of waxed paper or

plastic wrap, 1/4 inch thick. Remove the top sheet and cut out the cookies with cookie cutters.

Using a metal spatula, transfer the shapes to baking sheets, about 1 inch apart. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until cookies start to brown lightly around the edges. Remove the baking sheet to a wire rack and cool for 5 minutes.

Using a metal spatula, transfer the cookies to racks and cool completely before frosting and decorating. Makes 12 to 50 cookies, depending on their size.

For chocolate dough: After the last third of ﬂour has been added to the dough, mix in 1 ounce melted, slightly cooled unsweetened chocolate. Use your hands to knead in the chocolate.

For colored dough: Divide the dough into portions and use a toothpick to add food coloring paste (available at party supply stores) to each one. Knead until the color is evenly distributed. For a ﬂavor surprise, omit the vanilla extract and add 1 teaspoon of lemon extract to the yellow dough, mint extract to the green dough, and strawberry extract to the red dough.

How to prepare

Cut out the dreidels from the rolled-out dough and bake as directed (if you cant ﬁnd a dreidel cookie cutter, make a pattern out of lightweight cardboard). When cooled, pipe one of the four classic dreidel symbols on each cookie (either gimel, shin, nun, or hay) with blue frosting.

Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies

• 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter

• 1/2 cup butter, softened

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar

• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar

• 1 egg

• 1 tsp. vanilla

• 1-1/2 cups ﬂour

• 1 tsp. baking soda

• 44 candy-coated chocolate pieces

• 88 semi-sweet Chocolate Chips

• 44 pretzels, broken into 1-inch pieces

Heat oven to 350° F.

Beat peanut butter, butter and sugars in large bowl with mixer until light and ﬂuffy. Add egg and vanilla; beat until blended. Add combined ﬂour and baking soda; mix well.

Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Place, 2 inches apart, on baking sheets. Bake 7 to 9 min. or until cookies are just set.

Place 1 chocolate piece immediately in center of each cookie for a nose (press down slightly if cookies aren’t ﬂat enough), 2 chocolate chips for eyes, and 2 pretzel pieces at top of cookie for antlers. Carefully remove cookies to wire rack; cool completely.

Beloved holiday tunes are combined with a musical cabaret in a joyous over-the-top spectacle that is the Madison Theatre’s holiday celebration. The cast of 48 performers enthusiastically share all the delights of the season in this show, now in its 11th year, created by Artistic Director Angelo Fraboni. The vibrant cast includes Broadway performers. and Molloy University’s pre-professional CAP21 Musical Theatre Conservatory students “Holiday Joy” invites everyone to take a journey through the many worlds of the holidays — through song and dance — in the fast- paced spectacle. Timeless songs such as “We Need A Little Christmas” are brought to life in joyful arrangements, accompanied by a live band.

Friday, Dec. 20, 7 p.m. ; Saturday, Dec. 21, 2 and 7 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 22, 3 p.m. Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. (516) 323-4444 or madisontheatreny. org.

Yellow Brick Joel

Relive the classic songs that deﬁne generations. David Clark performs as Billy Joel along with Bill Connors as Elton John in this thoroughly entertaining and faithful tribute to the Face To Face/Face 2 Face tours of the 1990s and 2000s. Experience a spirited concert celebrating the two greatest ‘Piano Men’ of our generation with hits like “I’m Still Standing,” “Rocket Man,” “Piano Man” and “You May Be Right” along with some deeper fan performances like “Honky Cat,” “Funeral For A Friend,” “Miami 2017,” and “Captain Jack.” A tribute to two of the greatest piano players and performers of all time couldn’t be set up any other way! Groove along to the vibe at this one-of-a-kind performance where these two talents go head-tohead as Elton John and Billy Joel delivering unforgettable music and showmanship.

Friday, Dec. 27, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $28. Flagstar at Westbury Music Fair, 960 Brush Hollow Rd., Westbury. Tickets available at LiveNation.com.

Chocolate Mint Squares Dreidel Hanukkah Cookies Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies

THE Your Neighborhood

‘Cold Beer on a Friday Night’

Keep those winter doldrums at bay with Jimmy Kenny and the Pirate Beach Band. It may seem like we’ve got much too long to wait ‘til we’re back on the beach, but Jimmy Kenny and his band come to the rescue, on the Paramount stage, Friday, Jan. 3 , 8 p.m. Join in their “Ultimate Beach Party Tribute” to Kenny Chesney, Jimmy Buffett and Zac Brown Band. Parrotheads, No Shoes Nation and the Zamily: it’s 5 o’clock somewhere so let’s ‘raise ‘em up and sing along. The Long Island-based band — guided by Paul C. Cuthbert (aka Jimmy Kenny) on lead vocals/acoustic guitar, with Linn DeMilta (aka Lovely Linn), lead and backing vocals, Luis Rios, lead guitar/backing vocals, Frank Stainkamp, keyboard/backing vocals, Dan Prine, bass, and drummer Mike Vecchione — has been celebrating the beach country sounds of Buffett, Chesney and Zac Brown Band for over a decade, spreading their vibe up and down the Northeast coast. Everyone has a great time grooving to their lively l mix of their popular sing-along hits and feel good, easy living flair. If you like your toes in the sand, wasting away with a margarita or a cold beer on a Friday night, then you’ll surely have a great time with the Jimmy Kenny Band. $35, $25, $20, $15. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Countdown to 12

Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes back its popular

“Noon” Year’s Eve family party, Sunday, dec. 31, noon-4 p.m. This year’s event will be making an intergalactic leap with activities starting at 11 a.m., the addition of a third ball drop, plus spacethemed crafts, entertainment and a confetti-filled dance party. The day’s celebration starts and ends with Times Square-style ball drops (noon, 2 and 4 p.m.). In between the opening and closing ball drops, families will make themed crafts and enjoy the DJ-led dance party.

All activities are drop-in and run through 3:45 p.m. $20 adults and children, $18 seniors, members free. Advance ticket purchase recommended. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or licm. org.

BOE meets

Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District’s Board of Education next meets on Wednesday, Jan. 8, at 7:30 p.m. All meetings take place at the Brookside School. To view the agenda, visit BellmoreMerrick.k12.NY.us, and visit the Board of Education tab. Meeting recordings are posted on the district’s website. 1260 Meadowbrook Road, N. Merrick.

Dec. 21

Bird walk

See some birds with the South Shore Audubon Society. All are welcome to join members for the next in its series of bird walks, at Hempstead Lake State Park, Saturday, dec. 21, starting at 9 a.m. The group will meet in parking lot #3. Walk leaders, other birders and nature enthusiasts are happy to share their knowledge and experience with you. Bring binoculars. To register, text your name and contact information to (516) 467-9498. Rain, snow or temperature below 25 degrees will cancel the bird walk. Text regarding questionable weather. For more information, visit ssaudubon.org.

Menorah lighting in Bellmore

Religious leaders from Congregation Beth Ohr leads the Bellmore community in prayer, Sunday, dec. 29, as the Chamber of Commerce of the Bellmores lights its 10-foot menorah in Bellmore village. With performances, Hanukkah giveaways and more, at the intersection of Bedford Ave. For more information, visit bellmorechamber.com.

Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from

Let’s Skate

Get ready to enjoy all the thrills of the snowy season, while staying warm and cozy as Long Island Children’s Museum’s popular “Snowflake Sock Skating rink returns, through Jan. 7. Slip on “sock skates” and take a spin on the indoor rink, made from a high-tech synthetic polymer surface that lets kids slide around without blades.

Kids can stretch, twirl and glide. As visitors step off the “ice” they can jump into winter dramatic play in Snowflake Village. Become a baker in the holiday sweet shop, step inside a giant snowman and serve up some hot cocoa, take a turn in the rink “ticket booth” and “warm up” around a rink side “fire pit.” Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 2245800 or LICM.org.

‘Frozen Jr.’

Sunrise Theatre Company stages “Frozen Jr.” at the Bellmore Movies and Showplace, Saturday through Sunday, Dec. 28-Jan. 5. This show is recommended for children in grades K-5. $14 for general admission. For more on the show and to buy tickets, call (516) 218-2782 or email sunrisetheatreli@ gmail.com. 222 Pettit Ave., Bellmore.

Home for the Holidays Adoption

There’s no better time to adopt a new pet than during, “Home for the Holidays” at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter. All fees are waived and include free spaying/neutering, vaccinations, microchipping, now through Sunday, Jan. 5. Licensing feels still apply. Prospective adopters can browse photos and profiles at hempsteadny.gov/179/ animal-shelter and also on the shelter’s Facebook page. 3320 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh. For more information, call (516) 785-5220.

Having an event?

Holiday concert

Celebrate the season with the Symphonic Pops of Long Island, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2 p.m. The intergenerational orchestra of 60 L.I.-based musicians performs with the Willow Interfaith Women’s Choir as special guests. The program, at Brookside School in North Merrick, includes “Charlie Brown Christmas,” “Let It Snow,” “Christmas Sing-A-Long,” “Greensleeves,” “Chanukah Festival Overture,” and much more.

Suggested donation of $10 is requested at the door (kids are free). 1260 Meadowbrook Road, North Merrick, New York. Visit symphonicpopsli. org for more.

Items on The Scene 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 thescene@liherald.com.

On exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art ‘s latest exhibition

“Seeing Red: Renoir to Warhol,” reveals the many meanings, connotations, and associations of this powerful color in art. Evoking strong emotion, red can represent the human condition. Its myriad variations have come to signify authority as well as love, energy and beauty. Red warns us of peril and commands us to stop, but it can also indicate purity and good fortune. Red boldly represents political movements and religious identities. From the advent of our appreciation for this color in antiquity to its continued prominence in artistic and popular culture, this exhibition spans various world cultures through a range of media.

It features more than 70 artists, both established and emerging, ranging from the classical to the contemporary. American portraitists such as Gilbert Stuart imbued red in their stately paintings of prominent individuals to conjure authority. Robert Motherwell, Ad Reinhardt, and other major abstract painters displayed a deep fascination with red in their commanding compositions that evoke a sense of chromatic power. And, of course, Andy Warhol is known for his bold and imposing silkscreened portrait of Vladimir Lenin saturated in bright red to his signature Campbell’s Soup Cans. On view through Jan. 5. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Family theater

Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes families to its stage, Friday, Dec. 20, 10:15 a.m. and noon; Saturday, Dec. 21, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; Thursday, Dec. 26, 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 27, 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m.; 6: 15 p.m.; also Dec. 28-30. Ezra Jack Keats’ “The Snowy Day & Other Stories” celebrates the joy in the small moments of a child’s world. Experience the wonder of a fresh snowfall, the delight of whistling for the first time, and the awe of finding a special treasure. In this childhood adventure, Keats’ classic books come to life, featuring live actors and shadow puppets telling the stories of “The Snowy Day,” “Goggles!,” “Whistle for Willie,” and “A Letter to Amy.” $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only. Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or licm.org.

Going to the chapel!

Bellmore residents Trent Davis and Kylie Persampire were married by Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray last month at Hempstead Town Hall. Residents interested in obtaining a marriage license or scheduling a wedding ceremony should call the Office of the Town Clerk at (516) 812-3014 or visit HempsteadNY.gov.

The Needle Paint Hook opens its doors

Debbie Adler, owner of The Needle Paint Hook in Merrick, was greeted by Hempstead Town Supervisor Don Clavin, Councilman Chris Schneider, and Town Clerk Kate Murray as the Merrick Mall business celebrated its grand opening last month. Congressman Anthony D’Esposito also attended the event.

COMMUNITY

Courtesy Town of Hempstead

Nominate a student under 16 for the Sustainability Champion Award to recognize their efforts in driving sustainable change.

We want to hear about the extraordinary young individuals who are driving change in their communities.

The award will be presented at the 2025 LI Herald Sustainability Awards of Long Island powered by Reworld in February.

Your nomination could inspire countless others to follow in their footsteps!

Submit a nomination of approximately 200 words or less describing the student’s leadership in promoting sustainability: What motivates them? What impact have they had?

Be sure to include a photo or an example of their work—whether it’s a community garden, an environmental campaign, or a creative solution to a sustainability challenge.

19,

Laughter takes center stage at Bellmore Memorial

Fans of comedy were treated to an unforgettable afternoon filled with laughter and cheers as the Bellmore Memorial Library hosted its second installment of “An Afternoon of Comedy” last month.

This past show was presented by Gary Smith’s New York Entertainment Club, and showcased the talents of headliner John Ziegler and Vanessa Hollingshead as a featured act. Pat Marone, a standup comedian, see in “The Bronx Tale” and “Analyze That”, and the executive chef at the Regency in Glen Cove, served as the show’s emcee, keeping the audience engaged throughout the duration of the performances.

Ziegler, born and raised in New York, has performed as a stand-up comedian for over 15 years. He was winner of the 2016 “Funniest Comic on the East Coast” contest at Mohegan Sun, and ran the New Talent Open Mic Showcase at the Brokerage Comedy Club for over 6 years. An opener for comics including Sebastian Maniscalco, Gilbert Gottfriend, Jim Breuer and Robert Klein, he released his first comedy special, “Getting My Affairs in Order” in 2022, which is available on YouTube.

Hollingshead is a natural storyteller and accomplished actor, who has a unique repertoire of heart-felt, funny characterizations of all the people that cross her path. Constantly writing new and original material, Hollingshead transcends a variety of audiences, leaving them always wanting more.

The Bellmore Memorial Library’s “An Afternoon of Comedy” continues to

LEGAL NOTICE

A standup comedian for over 15 years, Ziegler was the headliner at the event last month.

prove why it’s a must-attend event for local comedy fans, delivering top-tier talent and non-stop laughs. With such an impressive lineup, attendees are already looking forward to the next show.

For more on what’s ahead at the Bellmore Memorial Library, visit BellmoreLibrary.org.

— Jordan Vallone

Public Notices

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU

INDEX NO.: 610078/2024

DATE FILED: 6/10/2024

SUMMONS

L&L ASSOCIATES HOLDING CORP. Plaintiff, -against-

MARGARET DEVLIN, EDWARD DEVLIN, JAMES DEVLIN and MICHAEL DEVLIN, if they be living, if they be dead, their respective heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors, and successors in interest, and generally all persons having or claiming under, by, or through,

MARGARET DEVLIN, EDWARD DEVLIN, JAMES DEVLIN and MICHAEL DEVLIN, if they be dead, whether by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise, including any right, title or interest in and to the real property described in the complaint herein, all of who and whose names and places of residence are unknown to the plaintiff,

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER; BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #12”, the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, Defendants.

TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action. to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with the summons, to serve notice of appearance, on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the date of service (or within thirty (30) days after the service is complete if this summons is not

personally delivered to you within the State of New York), and in case of failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint.

TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: The foregoing Summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Jeffrey A. Goodstein, a Justice of the Supreme Court, Nassau County, entered Nov. 20, 2024 and filed with the complaint and other papers in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office.

THE OBJECT OF THE ACTION is to foreclose a tax lien and to recover the amount of the tax lien and all of the interest, penalties, additions and expenses thereon to premises k/a Section 50, Block 298, Lots 52-53. Plaintiff designates Nassau County as the place of trial. The basis of venue is the location of the subject property.

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to

this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the tax lien holder who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the tax lien holder will not stop this foreclosure action.

YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (TAX LIEN HOLDER) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.

Dated: June 7, 2024

LEVY & LEVY

Attorneys for Plaintiff 12 Tulip Drive Great Neck, NY 11021 (516) 487-6655 BY: JOSHUA LEVY, ESQ. #101959 150175

Holden Leeds/Herald photos

John Ziegler, Vanessa Hollingshead and Pat Marone took to the stage at the Bellmore Memorial Library last month for ‘An Afternoon of Comedy.’

Comedian and chef Pat Marone served as the afternoon’s emcee, keeping the audience entertained before and after sets.

The audience laughed along to each performance during the second installment of the comedy show at Bellmore Memorial.

A natural storyteller and accomplished actor, Vanessa Hollingshead engaged the audience with her unique repertoire of heartfelt anecdotes — with a funny twist.

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

Amityville UFSD Food Service Workers PT/FT

Responsibilities- Food preparation & service, sanitation awareness, other duties as assigned by the District.

Qualifications- Knowledge and experience with cooking, inventory, cashiering, recordkeeping, customer service, computer skills **Suffolk County Food Manager's Certificate preferred. Salary range starting at $20,980. Email resume to: humanresources@amityvilleufsd.org or apply online at www.olasjobs.org/longisland

Amityville UFSD Substitute/Permanent Substitute Teachers Elementary & Secondary Level Qualifications: NYS Certification Salary: $150 per day Application: Interested candidates please apply online at www.olasjobs.org/longisland Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer

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 multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $16 per hour to $23 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time

Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience.

Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

Fax your ad to: 516-622-7460

E-mail your ad to:

EDITOR/REPORTER

EMAIL MARKETING SPECIALIST Herald Community Newspapers is seeking a motivated and knowledgeable Email Marketing Expert to join our team. If you have a passion for crafting effective email campaigns and a knack for data-driven decision-making, this role is for you!

RESPONSIBILITIES: Set up and manage email campaigns from start to finish. Analyze data to identify target audiences and optimize email strategies. Craft compelling email content, including writing effective subject lines. Monitor and report on campaign performance.

REQUIREMENTS: Degree in Marketing, Business, or related field. Strong understanding of data analysis and marketing principles. Experience with email marketing is preferred but not required.

POSITION DETAILS: Flexible: Part-time or Full-time. Salary range: $16,640 to $70,000, depending on experience and role. Join our dynamic team and help us connect with our audience in meaningful ways! Apply today by sending your resume and a brief cover letter to lberger@liherald.com

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16 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 $33,280 + 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

OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $33,280 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours

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

PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in

HomesHERALD

A Dream Home

RETAIL SPACE FOR RENT

WANTAGH AVENUE High Traffic

Successful Strip Shopping Center, Near Two High Schools Suitable For Medical/ Office 516-967-5805

TMaking an old home newer

Q. We looked at a home to buy, and saw that the stairs from the first to the second floor were leaning. We keep seeing this in homes that we’re interested in. Even though we will get a home inspection, can you tell us, more specifically, what causes this, and whether it’s a reason not to be interested in any particular house?

Professional Space/Rent

HEWLETT

PROFESSIONAL OFFICE SPACES FOR RENT

Prices Range: $395 - $850 Per Month

Includes Utilities And Parking Email: flamingodrive26@gmail.com

A. Leaning stairs are usually improperly supported. Because stairs go through an opening between floors, their weight must be supported all around the opening. Unfortunately, this leaning and sagging condition is not uncommon, especially in older homes that were built before there were building codes and official building inspections by trained individuals who had to sign off on the way a home was framed. Many homes were framed by carpenters who had knowledge of materials and how to join them to create beautiful homes, without necessarily being formally educated in the engineering, science and math required to predict, and thereby avoid, failure.

To the trained professional, the stair condition you describe is considered a failure, because the weight of the stairs and the surrounding structure were not resolved to keep everything aligned. The leaning staircase was predictable, but not avoided. In some modern cases, when inspectors aren’t called before the framing is covered in finishes such as wallboard or woodwork, an official inspection isn’t done, and many inspectors will rely on a letter from a licensed architect or engineer.

You should be made aware that this practice of asking for letters may not be of much assurance, because not seeing the conditions and still writing a letter can be a problem. Letters don’t hold up buildings, but the shifting of the task is meant to shift responsibility, and unless the licensed professional really examines the conditions fully, you may just go through a shifting of blame similar to the shifting stairs.

The remedy is to lift the stairs into position while remediating the structure. In some cases, a column at the lowest level was required and not installed; in others, the horizontal floor joists surrounding the stairwell weren’t the right size; and in other cases, the stair may have been framed and attached to the surrounding structure incorrectly. Many people never consider the impact of an adult transferring their weight, with gravity, to the next step, literally falling a step at a time, multiplying their mass plus gravity.

In one instance I investigated, an air conditioning installer “needed” to cut through the main beam just below the stair landing so that only the air duct was holding the stairs’ weight, which, by the time I arrived, had dropped 4 inches. The air duct was redirected and the beam had to be replaced, which turned out to be an involved procedure. If the house has plaster walls, the repair is more expensive and, in either case, the added framing may be costly. It might be a reason to keep looking. Good luck!

Stuff HERALD

Finds Under $100

FABRIC LIFT/ RECLINER Chair, perfect for the physically challenged. FREE. 516-554-3643 leave message

HOOVER RUG SHAMPOO Machine with all Attachments, and Cleaning Supplies. $85 LIke New. 516-486-7941

IKEA SOLID OAK: Unassembled, Media Storage Cabinets, New in Box: DVD, CD VCR $50 each. 516-486-7941

TUPPERWARE CHRISTMAS VILLAGE Vintage set, lights up, 12 pieces total including 5 buildings, $60, 516-884-9994.

WOMAN REVERSIBLE, GENUINE shearling coat, black (L) $99.00. Very good condition, picture upon request. 516-668-7286

SERVICES

Cable/TV/Wiring

Finds Under $100

ANTIQUE HIGHBOY, SOLID mahogany, great condition. Photo available. $99.00 516-637-6603

BLACK LEATHER SWIVEL chair, good condition, $95. Call Pam 516 - 554 -3643

CHARTER CLUB HOME (angels depicted) set of 4 new salad/dessert plates in box, $36, 516-884-9994.

DRESSERS: 2 IDENTICAL pcs. Black; Wood; Single Top drawer, 2 magnetic doors, $50 ea. 516-320-1906

Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 OnDemand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-782-4069

Electricians

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opinions

Like many other devotees, I’ll miss ‘Blue Bloods’ dearly

Atelevision era has ended. Last Friday night’s “Blue Bloods” episode was the last. It has been canceled by CBS despite having consistently high ratings and, in my opinion, having been the best show on television during its 14-season run on the network. I don’t profess to be a media critic, but I am a lifelong New Yorker who appreciated the firstclass acting of a cast led by Tom Selleck, and the show’s proud espousal of support for the police and its advocacy of traditional family values.

“Blue Bloods” focuses on four generations of the Reagan family in New York law enforcement — the “Reagan family business.” Frank Reagan, played by Selleck, is the NYPD commissioner. His father, Henry, is a former commissioner. His sons, Danny, a detective, and Jamie,

in case you’re still counting, Election Day happened six weeks ago, and all of the post-mortems on both sides reached the same conclusion: The No. 1 issue for voters was the economy, and the Democrats failed to pay attention to that issue, even though James Carville has been telling his party that “It’s the economy, stupid,” since 1992.

As we approach a new year, nothing has changed. The voters voted their pocketbooks, and they will judge all national and state politicians by what they do to ease people’s financial tensions. Incoming President Donald Trump says he hasn’t forgotten about his promise to cut the price of basic necessities, and his legacy will be judged by the promises he will keep.

Gov. Kathy Hochul, meanwhile, has gotten the message, and will propose a 2025 budget that will be loaded with pro-

a sergeant, as well as Jamie’s wife, Janko, are all NYPD, and his daughter, Erin, is a prosecutor in the district attorney’s office. An older son, Joe, was killed in the line of duty. His son, Joe Hill, previously unknown to the family, recently appeared on the NYPD scene using his mother’s last name.

consequences, including being secondguessed by critics who have never had to confront professional killers, violent drug dealers or crazed madmen.

Was it canceled for resisting corporate pressure to be more ‘woke’?

Besides the expected emphasis on crime solving, “Blue Bloods” shows the realities of cops’ lives and the impact that those often harsh realities have on their families’ day-to-day lives. Unlike almost every other crime drama series, “Blue Bloods” never succumbed to political or corporate pressure to portray cops in a negative light, even at the height (or the depth) of the Defund the Police movement, which was all the rage in 2020.

Not that it shows cops to be perfect. Just human — people who are willing to put their lives on the line for all the rest of us. People who have to make lifechanging decisions and live with the

As a recent Newsday story pointed out, “Blue Bloods” has a particularly strong following on Long Island, where many police officers and their families and friends live, as well as the many thousands of commuters who regularly travel to the city for work or entertainment.

I admit to having a bias. My father was a member of the NYPD for more than three decades before he retired as a lieutenant. I also have friends who have been officers in the NYPD as well as the Nassau and Suffolk County police departments. It was most impactful to be able to closely observe police work during my 18 years on the House Homeland Security Committee.

I had the chance to meet the “Blue Bloods” cast during several visits to their studio in Brooklyn, where they filmed the Sunday-family-dinner scenes,

and other shooting locations on Long Island. All are outstanding people, especially Selleck; Donnie Wahlberg, who played Danny; and Will Estes, who played Jamie. So, too, is Steve Schirripa (Anthony Abetemarco), whom I’d met before, a great guy who’s as genuine as the investigator he plays on the show.

Believe me, I’m not a star-struck guy. Being in public life, I’ve met a number of famous people and celebrities who are jerks. The “Blue Bloods” guys are the real deal.

The unanswered question is why CBS canceled a show that had consistently positive ratings for so many seasons and such a loyal, supportive fan base. Was it because “Blue Bloods” resisted corporate pressure to be more progressive and ‘woke’? Were its traditional values, exemplified by support for the police, the family dinner and strong patriotism, too out of touch for some of its advertisers? No matter. “Blue Bloods” fans will always have the memories.

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

At least Governor Hochul got the message

grams to help wage earners on many levels. Her first salvo into the coming year is an interesting one. She wants to give every family that makes less than $300,000 a check from the state for $500, and individuals who make less than $150,000 a onetime payment of $300.

Fiscal conservatives and budget hawks jumped on the plan with all kinds of criticism, but it will take more than a few barbs to kill Hochul’s one-shot anti-inflation proposal. Why is this plan being proposed, and where would the money come from?

when she announces her proposed budget in late January. Every one of the ideas in her plan will be aimed at saving people money.

s he’ll propose a 2025 budget loaded with programs to help wage earners.

During the coronavirus pandemic, the state collected a bonanza of tax revenue. Housebound voters purchased billions of dollars’ worth of necessities, and the state was the beneficiary. Those funds are sitting in some budget account, and if the governor doesn’t spend them first, the State Legislature surely will.

The rebate proposal is just one of many taxpayer benefits that Hochul will announce. There are numerous ways to reward consumers, and the governor can be the first one to offer them

Aside from the fact that Hochul is paying attention to the message of this year’s election, she is also keeping an eye on the political calendar. She will be seeking re-election in 2026, and now is as good a time as ever to make proposals that appeal to the average voter. The timing is important, because there are always a few ambitious Democrats who think they can do a better job, as well as some Republicans who are looking for promotions.

Even New York City Mayor Eric Adams has climbed on the tax-cutting bandwagon. He has proposed a modest cut for people on the lowest rung of the income ladder, but a check in the mail can be a much more potent gift for a voter in 2025.

Is a rebate check a new political idea? Some years back, when the state was running the Long Island Lighting Company, then Gov. George Pataki

approved a one-time payment for utility customers. It was an instant hit. Are there many ways to put money in voters’ wallets? From personal experience, I can think of a few. While serving as chair of the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee, I Iearned a lot about sales taxes. New York’s tax laws cover thousands of day-to-day household items. Some of those taxes could be eliminated, and consumers would know very quickly why their expenses went down. The flip side of sales tax cuts is that they cost the state money, but if there’s money in the cupboard, why not spend it?

In the weeks ahead, New York voters will be romanced with one proposal after another. The trick for the governor is to be the first one to come up new ideas that the Legislature will have a hard time rejecting. It’s time for the state to start giving back, even if that comes in small pieces.

Jerry Kremer was an assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He now heads Empire Government Strategies, a business development and legislative strategy firm. Comments about this column? jkremer@liherald.com.

Suffolk C.C. is shortchanging journalism

in a decision that has left many Long Island journalists and educators dismayed, Suffolk County Community College has chosen to eliminate its journalism major.

The move, characterized as a cost-cutting measure in response to declining enrollment and the purportedly dim career prospects of students who study journalism, is not only shortsighted, but runs counter to the college’s mission of preparing students to transfer to fouryear institutions where they can follow their chosen paths to future success.

For years, SCCC has prided itself on serving as a launching pad for students aiming to continue their education at schools such as Adelphi, Hofstra and Stony Brook universities — institutions with thriving journalism and communications programs. Suffolk’s own commercials proclaim how proud the school is to propel two-year students to fouryear schools.

Journalism is not only a viable academic path at these schools; it is also a critical discipline that is nothing less than the backbone of a functioning democracy. By shuttering the journalism major, SCCC sends a troubling message about the value it places on media literacy, civic engagement and students’ preparation for essential careers in public service, accountability and compelling storytelling.

The college’s decision is proving to be a controversial one, given that it came despite opposition from SCCC’s own faculty. In three separate votes, educators overwhelmingly rejected the proposal to discontinue the program. Such strong opposition suggests that those closest to

letters

Those excessive red-light-camera fines

To the Editor:

the educational process, who teach, mentor and advise students, understand the importance of maintaining a journalism program, even at a time when there couldn’t be more challenges for the profession.

The executive dean ultimately overrode those votes, citing enrollment declines and data from the New York State Department of Labor projecting limited growth in journalism jobs.

Figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, however, show a more robust industry despite the decline in the number and readership of newspapers. The SCCC decision fails to account for the evolving nature of journalism and its continued relevance in a mediasaturated world. The field is not disappearing; it is being transformed, and students deserve the opportunity to learn the skills needed to adapt to this new media landscape.

Content creation, social media management, podcasting, multimedia reporting and data journalism are just a few of the avenues now available to those with a foundation in journalism. Furthermore, the skills taught in a journalism program — writing, research, critical thinking and ethical reasoning — are transferable to a wide range of careers.

As it happens, the State University of New York has a system-wide community journalism program, the Institute for Local News, that provides students with real-world experience at local media outlets. Ironically, SCCC is the largest college by enrollment in the SUNY system. And we should note that its sister school, Nassau Community College, also offers journalism classes, but has no

If you haven’t heard, it seems a state appeals court has found that Nassau County has been adding illegal fees to red-light-camera tickets over the past 10 years — $100 on a $150 ticket. Ouch. I know — just like you, I’m shocked. Shocked, I tell ya. OK, not really.

But here’s the thing: Some of our dear legislators don’t wanna give back the money that was taken from us! Yeah, another shock.

I guess we’ll just see how that little bit of business plays out, but there is one more thing I’d like to bring up again. One of the biggest complaints about the redlight cams is the rear-end collisions they cause. Not being one to complain without offering a solution, I’d like to re-introduce my simple solution that would solve the problem immediately. Simple countdown clocks! There is absolutely no excuse why there shouldn’t be one hanging from every traffic light at a

journalism major.

The Herald Community Newspapers have for years invited journalism students from colleges across Long Island to work as interns, and the company is currently in partnership with Hofstra on a program in which students will join forces with Herald journalists on a series of stories, as well as with Stony Brook’s Working Newsroom, in which students will pitch and write stories. All of the stories will be published in the Heralds.

SCCC is targeting other programs and majors that fail to meet certain enrollment and job market criteria, and those decisions signal a troubling trend of prioritizing short-term metrics over longterm educational value. While budget constraints are an undeniable reality for most institutions, their decisions about academic programs should be guided by more than just numbers. They should reflect a commitment to the colleges’ missions and to the needs of their students.

If SCCC is truly committed to preparing students for transfer and future success, it must reconsider the elimination of its journalism major. A flourishing journalism program would not only support the college’s academic reputation, but also affirm its dedication to producing graduates who are informed, articulate and passionate about engaging with the world.

Bottom-line-focused decisions may balance budgets in the moment, but they risk undermining the broader purpose of education: to prepare students not only for jobs but also for meaningful, informed lives.

opinions

We need the Department of Education

the U.S. Department of Education was established as a cabinet-level agency in October 1979 by President Jimmy Carter, and officially began operations in May 1980. For nearly 45 years, the department has soldiered past many attempts to break it apart, or disband it altogether, most notably by conservative politicians who believe that the federal agency oversteps states’ rights.

While calls to do away with the agency have persisted through the early 21st century, the effort has never been successful, and here’s why: Many educators, parents, advocacy groups and politicians on both sides of the aisle support a federal role in education to ensure equity and civil rights enforcement.

I’m not an educator or a politician, but I can tell you this: Education, and at the very least a high school diploma, is imperative to one’s success in life. What’s even more important is that the Department of Education has played a vital role in making access to education possible for countless people, ensuring that opportunities for learning and growth are within reach for all.

The DOE oversees and coordinates national education policies, but it also works closely with state and local governments to assess needs on a state-bystate basis.

There are many avenues on which I could diverge to highlight some of the department’s key components, but I’ll focus on just a few things, the first being Title I — the largest federal education program, which is aimed at improving the academic achievement of disadvantaged students. It provides financial assistance to schools and districts with high percentages of children from low-income families.

sprovides them with specific protections and resources, like individualized education plans, mandating that schools develop tailored plans for these students, outlining their unique needs and goals and the services required to meet those goals.

hutting it down would have profound consequences for students all over the nation.

Over the years, Title I has garnered bipartisan support, because both Democrats and Republicans recognize the need to address education inequities. Debates have arisen over funding distribution and outcome measurement, but Title I remains a central component of federal education policy because of its critical role in supporting vulnerable students.

The DOE also oversaw the implementation of the landmark Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, signed into law by President George H.W. Bush in 1990. In simplest terms, the act guarantees free, appropriate public education for students with disabilities, and also

red-light-cam intersection. Problem solved. You’re welcome.

FRED GEFEN Woodmere

More local memories of Jimmy Breslin

To the Editor:

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Peter King’s column “Remembering Jimmy Breslin, a legend in New York journalism” (Dec. 5-11). It brought back so many memories. Breslin used to call my late husband, Marvin Bernstein, every Sunday night for the news about the Nassau County Supreme Court. Marvin was the public information officer at the courthouse, and Jimmy kept him busy! Thanks for the column, Mr. King!

SANDY BERNSTEIN East Meadow

The Sands proposal: ‘right location, wrong project’

To the Editor:

Las Vegas Sands’ proposal for an

integrated casino-resort in the Nassau County Hub a very bad idea. Right location, wrong project! Are the risks to our suburban lifestyle and environment worth the grossly exaggerated benefits projected? There were so many assumptions in the draft environment impact statement, and so much information omitted.

I am strongly opposed to the proposed project at the Hub. There are better alternatives that would benefit all Nassau County residents, but the people we rely on to protect our interests and preserve our suburban way of life are looking for a quick fix. They will bankrupt your future in more ways than you could imagine.

Hard Rock’s application to develop Citi Field has been approved by local community boards. Much better location, very accessible public transportation and a much better independent operator than Sands. That “Metropolitan Park,” if built, would compete with Sands and other downstate casinos for the same pool of gamblers and people seeking entertainment options. Somebody’s going to lose, and it will be the residents of Nassau County.

The act stretches beyond primary and secondary education, also requiring schools to help students transition from high school to postsecondary education, employment or independent living — ensuring that no one’s future is negatively impacted by a learning or physical disability.

I’m detailing all of this because I, like many others, find it extremely alarming that President-elect Donald Trump has once again vowed to shut down the Department of Education.

He first proposed to do so during his 2016 presidential campaign, but even his own secretary of education during his first term, Betsy DeVos, didn’t see that idea through.

The DOE has faced its share of woes over the course of seven presidencies, and yet it steadfastly continues its work. Shutting it down isn’t just a matter of politics — it’s a decision that would have profound consequences for students across the nation.

If Trump succeeds in dismantling the department in his second term, experts in the field have indicated that its programs could survive or operate under other federal or state agencies, but the transition would likely cause massive disruptions in services, negatively impacting students.

Ninety percent of all K-12 students in the U.S. are publicly educated, due to education’s accessibility and widespread availability, and who would we be, as a nation, if we took that accessibility away?

I’ve said this many times, and I’ll say it again: If you voted for Trump because you believe in his vision for America, that’s fine, and it’s your right as an American.

Putting that aside, however, I now ask you to think about students — perhaps even your children — and what the shutdown of a massively important department could mean.

The Department of Education exists to ensure that education is not a privilege for few, but rather a right for everyone, and to close it down would risk reversing decades of progress. Rather than dismantle it, we should be focused on strengthening it for generations to come, prioritizing children, their futures, and the promise of opportunity for all.

Jordan Vallone is a senior editor of the Herald Community Newspapers. Comments? Jvallone@liherald.com.

Framework by Tim Baker

Rockville Centre Girl Scout Troop 864 at Dees’ annual Trees for Troops — Oceanside

ANTHONY BRANCATO East Meadow

JorDan VaLLone