Franklin Square/Elmont Herald 01-09-2025 by Richner Communications, Inc

HERALD Franklin square/elmont

Quincy Velez is an Eagle Scout

What do librarians do all day?

Local librarian Mark Shimnoski explains the job

By RENEE DeloRENZo

rdelorenzo@liherald.com

Mark Shimnoski has been a librarian for over 12 years. After graduating with a master’s degree in library sciences from Queens College, completing both the Suffolk County and Nassau County librarian civil service exams, and working in the Wyandanch Public Library for almost eight years, Shimnoski finally found a home at the Franklin Square Public Library as a Librarian II.

But, what exactly does he do all day? According to Shimnoski, quite a lot.

“People have the assumption that a librarian just sits and reads a book,” he laughed. But, he said, the most important part of his job is not his love for books or knowing where to find them on the shelves. “Being a librarian is actually an incredibly diverse position. It isn’t just sitting and doing one thing from nine to five.”

Shimnoski’s job as a librarian, along with the support of

DOE program helps businesses reduce energy costs

By RENEE DeloRENZo rdelorenzo@liherald.com

The U.S. Department of Energy hosted a free online webinar on Dec. 17, detailing its new Onsite Energy Program, which provides small and medium-sized businesses with up to $300,000 in grant funding to improve their energy efficiency. About 40 Long Island business owners — including a solarenergy executive from Elmont — took part in the webinar, which was co-hosted by Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, to learn details about the program and how to apply for the funds.

Businesses must meet three requirements to qualify for the program: They must have fewer than 500 employees, less than $100 million in annual gross sales and annual energy costs ranging between $100,000 and $3.5 million. According to the DOE, eligibility requirements can be determined using data from a business’s last completed fiscal year, or the year in which an assessment is undertaken by either a programsponsored assessor or a private entity.

Clifton Yin, a senior supply chain deployment manager at the DOE, explained that the department allows three

I t makes sense. It’s cleaner energy that costs less. It’s a win for Long Islanders

DAlE DAVIDS Owner, 718

options for completing an assessment: the department’s Industrial Training and Assessment Center program, which offers assessments at no cost; Onsite Energy Technical Assistance Partnerships, which provide technical assistance at no

cost; or third-party assessors, which are a mix of state programs and private entities.

Assessors’ recommendations, Yin explained, are tailored to a company’s specific needs, and may include roof insulation, rooftop and ground solar units, heat pumps and geothermal systems. The business owner chooses a company

to contract with for the project, with the changes in energy technology and infrastructure intended to reduce energy costs and contribute to a clean-energy economy.

In order for business owners to receive federal funding for their projects, they must fund half of the total cost. A busi -

Renee DeLorenzo/Herald

Mark Shimnoski, Librarian II at the Franklin Square Public Library, holds one of his favorite childhood books JRR Tolkien’s “The Hobbit.”

News briefs

Legislator Solages honors Indian Nurses Association of NY

Nassau County Legislator Carrié Solages honored the Indian Nurses Association of New York at The Kerala Center in Elmont on Dec. 28 for the organization’s installation ceremony and holiday celebration. During the event, Solages welcomed the newest members to the organization’s governing board, thanked existing members for their ongoing service and saluted INANY for its service to the greater medical community.

INANY, which was founded in 2004, is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to unite all professional nurses and nursing students of Indian origin, or heritage, residing in New York state, in the pursuit of high standards in

nursing practice, education, excellence and scholarship.

Elmont man charged in alleged hit and run

Nassau police arrested Oscar Guzman, of Elmont, for allegedly leaving the scene of a serious vehicular accident on Dec. 27, at 6:52 a.m. in Elmont.

Lennox Leonard, 57, of Elmont, was crossing Hempstead Turnpike near the intersection of Locustwood Boulevard when he was struck by a 2010 Nissan Pathfinder traveling west on Hempstead Turnpike, according to police.

Leonard sustained serious injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital where he was listed in critical condition, police said. He was pronounced dead on Tuesday, Dec. 31 at approximately 1:15 p.m.

After the subsequent investigation, Guzman, 49, was arrested.

He is charged with leaving the scene of a serious vehicular accident with injury. Guzman pleaded not guilty and was released without bail. His next court date is Jan. 6. John Salvatore Campo represents him.

–Renee DeLorenzo

“New York’s outstanding nurses distinguish themselves daily as they deliver essential care with tremendous care and expertise,” Solages said. “But, they far too often do not receive the recognition and accolades they have earned. Organizations like the Indian Nurses Association of New York play a critical role in fostering professional development and spotlighting the contributions of these outstanding medical professionals. I applaud Dr. Anna George and her entire leadership team for their valuable contributions to our County staunch advocacy on behalf of their members.”

–Renee DeLorenzo

Oscar Guzman

Courtesy office of Legislator Carrié Solages

Carrié Solages, front, second left, honors the Indian Nurses Association of New York at the Kerala Center in Elmont.

Quincy Velez becomes an Eagle Scout

By RENEE DeLORENZO rdelorenzo@liherald.com

Quincy Velez, a scout from Franklin Square’s Boy Scouts of America Troop 485, achieved the rank of Eagle Scout last year. He celebrated his achievement during his Court of Honor at Destiny Cathedral in Hempstead on Jan. 5. Velez’s friends, family, fellow scouts and members of the New York assembly and legislature, including Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, Assemblyman Ed Ra, Legislator John Giuffre and Legislator Carrie Solages, attended the celebration, which began at 1 p.m.

Velez, who is now 18, joined the Cub Scouts at age seven.

More than anything, it taught me how to work with people, and how to become a better leader. It taught me how to be more engaged and understanding what’s going on around me

QuiNcy VELEZ Eagle Scout

Although, he admitted, it was only because his mother, Lynette Battle, pushed him to. “It took a while of getting used to,” he said. But now, there are many benefits he’s gained as a result of his experience with the troop, such as job preparation, crisis response and other valuable life skills.

“It taught me discipline,” he said. “More than anything, it taught me how to work with people, and how to become a better leader. It taught me how to be more engaged and understanding what’s going on around me.”

Velez said he currently has 31 merit badges, ranging from astronomy, cooking, emergency preparedness and, his favorite, shotgun shooting. “It was the hardest one,” he said of the shotgun badge. The badge took him two years to complete, but he said it was the most rewarding.

According to the Boy Scout website, scouts must complete all requirements, along with an Eagle Scout project, before they turn 18 in order to be considered for the rank. Velez said he completed his project last year, which focused on refurbishing his church prayer garden.

Velez said he and a team of scouts removed outdated trees, and then planted some flowers and a new banana tree in its place. He said the project was an effort to revitalize the garden, and pay tribute to community members in the armed forces who lost their lives. “It looks beautiful,” he said of the garden. “Everything just came together.”

The hardest part was asking his friends for help with his project, he said, because the day they started the project, it was raining heavily. He knew every-

one would be working in difficult conditions, but he led his team and guided them through it. “I had to bring out the best in them, even on the worst day,” he said.

Battle said she is incredibly proud of Velez. She said one of the reasons she put him in the Boy Scouts of America was because his father died when he was three years old. “There was a certain discipline I wanted him to have that I knew I couldn’t teach him, but the Boy Scouts could,” she said.

It was important to Battle that Velez had positive male role models, as well as leaders in his life that he could relate to.

She said his scoutmasters, who are husband and wife, have been instrumental in his development in the Boy Scouts, and have been a guiding force for him.

Gary Hansen, one of Velez’s scoutmasters, said Velez has always been determined to become an Eagle Scout, and regularly mentioned his goal of achieving the rank during their scout meetings.

Hansen said he’s known Velez since he was 11, and he has watched him mature and rise through the ranks ever since. “He was a very shy kid, at first,” he said. He admitted Velez did become a bit of a class clown, but now, he’s gotten

more serious. Of course, Hansen continued, Velez has still maintained his sense of humor. “He’s a good kid,” Hansen said. “I hope he continues accomplishing his goals.”

According to Velez, the scout program helped prepare him for his current enrollment in a pilot program at Vaughn College of Aeronautics, which is located next to LaGuardia Airport in Queens. In the future, he hopes to become a pilot and create a $20,000 scholarship for the Boy Scouts of America, which would be gifted to the organization every year. “I want to give back to the community,” he concluded.

Renee DeLorenzo/Herald photos

Quincy Velez recites a Boy Scouts of America pledge after achieving the rank of Eagle Scout during his Court of Honor at Destiny Cathedral in Hempstead on Jan. 5.

Velez, left, and his mother, Lynette Battle, embrace during the ceremony.

Velez, right, and Battle stand in front of the newly refurbished prayer garden at Destiny Cathedral, which was the centerpiece of Velez’s Eagle Scout project.

Franklin Square museum plans expansion

By RENEE DeLORENZO rdelorenzo@liherald.com

The Franklin Square Historical Society hosted their monthly open house at the Franklin Square Historical Museum on Naple Avenue last Sunday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. During the event, the society displayed a poster board that detailed plans for a $450,000 expansion to the museum building.

Pat Galaskas, who is currently a volunteer at the museum, said plans for the expansion include additional space to store artifacts, as well as a large classroom area that can be used for school field trips. The classroom is planned to include a large screen for showing movies, as well as seating and tables for lectures, meetings and activities.

Galaskas, 82, who has been involved in the historical society for over 30 years, and served as the museum’s director until 2020, moved to Franklin Square in 1942 when she was six months old. She lived there until about 2020, when she moved to Setauket for an apartment that better suited her needs. However, she remained committed to the museum and continues to make the hour and a half commute to assist the historical society with their mission. She currently gives tours of the museum, educating visitors about their collection of artifacts and Franklin Square history.

A sign that reads, “Please donate to our classroom building fund,” along with a bucket to collect donations, is on display at the museum’s open house.

The historical society began collecting artifacts in 1976, Galaskas recalled, after a bicentennial committee was formed around the 200-year anniversary of the United States. At that point, the museum was storing their artifacts in a

Protecting Your Future

A Forgotten American Treasure

Benjamin Franklin’s Poor Richard’s Almanac appeared from 1732 to 1758. Amongst other information, it provided pithy sayings and proverbs, many of which have withstood the test of time.

“An empty bag cannot stand upright.”

“Anger is never without a reason, but seldom a good one.”

“Anoint a villain and he’ll stab you: stab him and he’ll anoint you.”

“An old young man will be a young old man.”

“Don’t think to hunt two hares with one dog.”

“Eat few suppers and you’ll need few medicines.”

“Great almsgiving, lessens no man’s living.”

“Happy’s the wooing that’s not long a doing.”

“He that lies down with dogs, shall rise up with fleas.”

“If your riches are yours, why don’t you take them with you to the other world.”

“Lost time is never found again.”

“The noblest question in the world is, what good may I do in it?”

“They who have nothing to trouble them, will be troubled at nothing.”

“The sleeping fox catches no poultry.”

“The tongue is ever turning to the aching tooth.”

“When you’re good to others, you are best to yourself.”

“Who is rich? He that rejoices in his portion.”

Editor’s Note: The filing requirement under the Corporate Transparency Act (last week’s column) has been suspended by the courts until further notice.

ETTINGER LAW FIRM

CONSULTATION: 516-327-8880 x117 or email info@trustlaw.com

100 Merrick Rd., Rockville Centre • 3000 Marcus Ave., Lake Success Other offices in Huntington • Melville

Islandia

room at John Street School, and eventually in a room at Washington Street School.

However, the schools needed the space for their own purposes, and many of the artifacts were moved to peoples’ garages and other temporary storage spaces. The society soon realized a need for space dedicated to their growing collection of artifacts. By 2005, construction officially began on the museum.

Construction was completed in 2017, and the museum was formally dedicated in September of that year. From there, Galaskas helped move boxes of artifacts to the museum showroom, where she took pictures of items to be labeled by historians. However, the museum did not open to the public until 2023, in part due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Once the museum was open, Galaskas said the historical society quickly noticed the space was too small for all their artifacts, and it was particularly obvious how crowded it was when school classes came to visit with large

groups of students. She said this is why the society is looking to expand the museum. “We desperately need the extension,” she said.

As of now, $183,000 of funds has been raised for the project, which includes grants and individual donations. However, their goal is $450,000. To help raise more funds, the society is sending out 163 letters to businesses across Franklin Square to request additional donations for their project.

Galaskas said she would remain devoted to the museum, and refuses to abandon the cause despite her long commute. She said those involved in the museum love history, herself included, and the historical society wants to share it with as many others in the community as they can.

To learn more about the Franklin Square Historical Society, how to become a member and how to donate to their project, visit their website, FSHistoricalSociety.org. The society publishes a monthly newsletter on the website with meeting dates and other important information.

■ WEB SITE: www.liherald.com/franklinsquare or www.liherald.com/elmont

■ E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: fseditor@liherald.com

■ EDITORIAl DEPARTMENT: Ext. 282 E-mail: fseditor@liherald.com

■ SUBSCRIPTIONS: Press ”7” E-mail: circ@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: rglickman@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4643

■ PUBlIC NOTICES: Ext. 232 E-mail: legalnotices@liherald.com

Renee DeLorenzo/Herald photos

Pat Galaskas, left, and Nancy Youngfert stand in front of Franklin Square’s oldest telephone, which was on display at the Franklin Square Historical Society Museum’s open house on Jan. 5.

Elmont two-year-old reads 1,000 books

By RENEE DeLORENZO rdelorenzo@liherald.com

Two-year-old Idris Kenchi, of Elmont, completed the “1000 Books Before Kindergarten” challenge last month. The program, offered nationwide through a nonprofit organization, the 1000 Books Foundation, is aimed at promoting early academic success and bonding between parents and their children. Kenchi received a certificate from the Franklin Square Public Library on Dec. 20 for his achievement.

Kristen Sharkey, Kenchi’s mother, said he’s been drawn to books ever since she began reading to him when he was just two months old. She said she didn’t know what to expect when she first opened a book in front of him, but she was curious to see his reaction. She quickly noticed that Kenchi was listening closely and remained attentive the entire time.

From that point on, she began reading books to him every night.

After the family moved from Manhattan to Elmont when Kenchi was about eight months old, Sharkey said her parents, Rosanne and John Sharkey, began taking care of him more often. They brought him to the library in Franklin Square, which is close to her parents’ house, so they could find more books to read.

That’s when they learned of the 1000 Books Foundation challenge. The program is offered at thousands of libraries nationwide, including Franklin Square and Elmont. The family picked up a log sheet from the library and began tracking the books Kenchi read.

A year and a half after beginning the program, Kenchi had already reached the goal. Kristin said

they read a handful of books everyday, which is why he completed the program so quickly. While he started with shorter books at first, Kenchi is now reading longer books.

Even at his young age, Kristin said Kenchi knows letters and can sound them out. He recognizes words and pictures in the books they read together, as well. According to Kristin, he can sit quietly and look at books for a long period of time, which she believes is because he is also visually engaged. In general, she said Kenchi’s language skills are strong.

Kenchi said one of his favorite books right now is about planets, which Kristin explained is a National Geographic children’s book that teaches kids about the solar system. Kenchi said he also loves the “Curious George” books, because George always gets into trouble, much like him. But, he said his favorite book right now is “Pete the Cat,” because it makes him laugh.

Kristin, who used to be a teacher and is now a therapist, said she tries to limit Kenchi’s screen time because she believes hands-on learning is more valuable and effective. Although, she said, this is not always easy, because kids are surrounded by screens these days. “It’s certainly a challenge to raise kids now without heavy use of screens,” she said. “We don’t want all of his learning to be from videos.”

Kristin said that concern is why she and her family will keep encouraging Kenchi to read even more books as he grows up.

For more information about the “1000 Books Before Kindergarten” challenge, and to find out which libraries offer it, visit the foundation’s website, 1000BooksBeforeKindergarten.org.

Incredibly

Courtesy Franklin Square Public Library

Franklin Square Public Library Head of Children’s Services Shannon Meany, left, presenting two-year-old Idris Kenchi with a certificate for reading 1,000 books before Kindergarten at the library on Dec. 20.

HERALD SPORTS

Hofstra wrestling begins exciting new era

By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com

Hofstra wrestling alum Jamie Franco is now leading the program where he thrived on the mats as a student-athlete looking to raise it to new heights.

Franco, a three-time NCAA Championship qualifier at Hofstra in the early 2010s, was named the Pride’s 13th- head coach on July 1, 2024 replacing Dennis Papadatos after he took an administrative role in the university’s athletic department. It marks another return home for Franco, who served as an assistant coach under Papadatos from 2016 to 2023 before spending a season on the wrestling staff at Columbia University last year.

“I always wanted to be a head coach and to be able to get this opportunity was a dream come true for me,” said Franco, who won 75 matches at Hofstra including a conference title at 133 pounds in 2013. “To come back to my alma mater and get my first head coaching gig at Hofstra was really special.”

After graduating Hofstra in 2014 with a business degree, Franco was operations manager of the famed Longo and Weidman MMA Training Center in Garden City where Hofstra wrestling legend Chris Weidman trained when he held a UFC middleweight title from 2013 to 2015. Franco maintains a close relationship with Weidman and recently brought his longtime trainer Ray Longo in a cross training session with the wrestlers.

“I think it’s always good to get these guys training outside of just wrestling to make them physically and mentally tougher,” Franco said.

Franco inherited a roster with plenty of former Long Island high school wrestling standouts including 133-pound Ryan Arbeit, who won a county title for Wantagh in 2022. The redshirt freshman was voted a team captain in October along with Massapequa High School product Chase Liardi, Justin Hoyle of Maple Valley, Wash and Ross McFarland of Pennellville, N.Y.

Two of Arbeit’s former Wantagh teammates are also on the Hofstra roster including red-shirt junior Mat Rogers, who won a New York State Championship in 2020 and Joe Russo, who was sidelined last season after joining the Pride from Nassau Community College. Russo was sidelined at the beginning of the season with an injury, but Franco is hoping he can make a contribution as the dual meet schedule heats up.

The Nassau County South Shore presence on the Hofstra mats also includes 165-pound redshirt junior Eric Shindel, who was an All-County wrestler at JFK High School in Bellmore in 2020 and 2021.

Fellow 165-pounder Kyle Mosher, who won a New York State title with South Side High School in Rockville Centre, joined the Pride this season as a graduate student after competing as an undergraduate student

at Columbia under Franco.

“He is looking really good early in the season so we’re looking to keep building on it,” said Franco of Mosher, who placed eighth in the 30-team Cliff Keen Las Vegas Invitational on Dec. 7. “He’s on everyone’s radar now.

Franco recorded his first dual meet win as Hofstra head coach with a 21-12 victory against Duke at home on Nov. 16. The Pride entered the new year at 4-3 and will next be in action on Jan. 9 with an Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association (EIWA) road match at Binghamton. The Pride then has home matches in the Mack Sports Complex scheduled Jan. 26 against Penn starting at noon and Feb. 2 versus Franklin & Marshall at 4 p.m.

The Pride will look to make some noise at the EIWA Championships at Lehigh on March 7-8 and qualify at least three of four wrestlers for the NCAA Championships in Philadelphia from March 20-22.

“The guys are growing every week,” Franco said. “I think we’re going to see a more gritty team for us in the EIWAs so I feel like we’re going to get a bunch of placers there this year.”

Photos courtesy Hofstra Athletics Communications Massapequa native Chase Liardi is one of Hofstra’s captains.

Ross McFarland and the Pride are looking to make noise under new coach Jamie Franco, a Hofstra wrestling alumn.

Elmont Jewish Center lights menorah

By RENEE DeLORENZO rdelorenzo@liherald.com

The Elmont Jewish Center hosted a menorah lighting on the fifth night of Hanukkah in front of the Elmont Jewish Center building on Dec. 29 at 5 p.m. A handful of members from the congregation gathered in front of the doors to sing hymns and pray as Rabbi Blachman lit the menorah at the building’s entrance.

According to Jewish tradition, Hanukkah or Chanukah, in Hebrew is a festival of lights that celebrates the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem after Jewish fighters liberated it from the Greek-Syrians. Blachman said the Greeks sought to destroy the Jewish people and force them to forget their religion. The Greeks entered the Jewish temple and defiled their oil, leaving only enough to keep the menorah lit for one day.

However, Blachman said, God made a miracle and kept the menorah lit for eight days.

Blachman said to honor God’s miracle, Jews celebrate eight nights of Hanukkah by lighting candles on the menorah to represent each night the oil kept burning. He explained that on the first night, only one candle is lit. Then, on the second night, two candles are lit. This continues in progression, adding an additional candle each night, until all eight candles on the menorah are lit

on the last night of celebration.

Blachman’s wife, Orah Blachman, said the holiday represents dedication, bravery and freedom. “As we light the menorah today, our light will continue to shine,” Orah said. “We will overcome darkness and turn it to light.”

In addition to lighting the menorah, Hanukkah festivities include singing songs, giving gifts, eating oil-based foods

and playing the game of dreidel. “Judaism is not just sitting in the synagogue and reading books,” Blachman pointed out. “It’s about having fun, as well, in a godly way.”

Blachman said there aren’t many Jews in the neighborhood anymore, and their membership has been dwindling. They have been hosting their menorah lighting tradition for ten years, but

Blachman said there used to be a bigger crowd before the coronavirus pandemic. Now, he said, the congregation is down to only a handful of people.

While Elmont’s congregation is small, Blachman said, the tradition instills pride throughout the entire Jewish community. He said it’s his responsibility to help all members of the congregation carry out their service to God, and lighting the menorah is part of that.

Rabbi Sagee Harshefar, who is from Nes Tziyonah, Israel and visits the Jewish center in Elmont often, said the size of the community is not what matters. Rather, he said, it is about honoring all Jews around the world. “Every Jew counts,” Harshefar said. “Not only here in Elmont, but in every part of the world.”

Blachman said there is thousands of menorahs throughout the world that stand in public places of worship. This year, in recognition of Jews worldwide, Blachman dedicated the Hanukkah ceremony to the safe return of Israeli hostages.

As for the Elmont community itself, Orah said their congregation would always be special to her. She and Blachman met through the congregation after she joined in 2016, and she continues to maintain close friendships with all of their members. “When I first came here, they were very kind. It was a friendly group, and it still is,” she said.

Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K is looking

Renee DeLorenzo/Herald

Rabbi Blachman lights the menorah outside of the Elmont Jewish Center for the fifth night of Hanukkah on Dec. 29.

Children’s church choir sings for seniors

By RENEE DeLORENZO rdelorenzo@liherald.com

The Sienna Square Garden Children’s Choir, of St. Catherine of Sienna Roman Catholic Church in Franklin Square, performed Christmas carols for the seniors at Plattdeutsche Home Senior Living on Sunday, Dec. 29 at 3 p.m. The choir, consisting of seven children from the church, sang a variety of Christian hymns and holiday songs led by the church kid’s choir director, Victoria Goff, and musical director, Brian Goff.

About 20 residents at the senior home gathered in a room next to the lobby and sang along with the children as they performed holiday songs such as “Silent Night,” “Jingle Bells” and “Frosty the Snowman.” The residents also joined the children in prayer as Father Arcoleo, a pastor from the church, led a short service.

Arcoleo said this past Advent was the first time the kid’s choir was created to perform during the holiday season. Arcoleo said the church formed the kid’s choir with the intention of uplifting God’s spirit in the community, and around the world. “We have a mission to grow the garden,” he said. “The idea of growing the garden is God’s presence in the world.”

The kid’s choir helped celebrate the first Sunday of Advent liturgy at Holy Mass, Arcoleo said. Since then, he con-

tinued, the children have performed at multiple church services, including at Christmas. As a result of the positive feedback the kid’s choir was getting from the community, Arcoleo said the church asked the senior home if the children could perform for the residents.

“This Christmas season, when people

mance added to the gift God gave the world on Christmas, and helped the seniors at the Plattdeutsche celebrate the holiday with warmth and cheer. “On the fifth day of Christmas, God’s given these people not only five golden rings, but the Sienna Square Garden Children’s Choir,” he said.

According to Joanne Lanigan, 73, a resident at the senior home, watching the children’s choir means a great deal of happiness to her. She said she has lived in the senior home for over a year now, and she does not get to see her family very often. “It’s not easy,” Lanigan said. “We’re not around our family, our children or our grandchildren.”

However, Lanigan said being visited by the kid’s choir brightened her day and spread the holiday spirit. “It just brings us joy,” Lanigan said. “To have somebody come bring a little life into the place, it takes away from our surroundings when we feel lonely. And it brings the children to us.”

all around the world celebrate the good news of great joy which is for all the people, not just Catholic people we asked if the Plattdeutsche would like the choir to come here and sing Christmas carols for the residents,” Arcoleo said.

He said the choir’s Dec. 29 perfor-

Arcoleo commended the kid’s choir for their dedication to the church and honoring the gift of Christmas. He said it was admirable that the children chose to dedicate part of their Christmas break to serving God and the seniors in the community. “I mean, to take the time on a Sunday afternoon and to come sing Christmas carols in a senior resident facility, that’s a really good sign,” he said of the church’s mission.

Renee DeLorenzo/Herald

The Sienna Square Garden Children’s Choir, clockwise, Lyla McGrade, Kendall Morales, Adriana Mignano, Caitlyn Reddington, kid’s choir director Victoria Goff, Vincent Montenora, Noah Gonzalez and Siena Montenora.

Gearing up for another merry Mulchfest

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

The holiday season may be winding down, but in the Town of Hemsptead, there’s still time to celebrate sustainability at the town’s fifth annual Mulchfest.

Residents are invited to bring their Christmas trees to Veterans Memorial Park at 1700 Prospect Ave., East Meadow on Saturday, Jan. 11, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., where the trees will be shredded into mulch for personal use or donated as snacks for the Nigerian Dwarf goats at Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve.

“Mulchfest is back for the fifth year in a row, and the goats at Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve are bleating in excitement,” Town Supervisor Don Clavin said. “This holiday tradition sees scores of residents turning their Christmas trees into mulch, with each year getting better and better.”

A “Mulchfest” is an event where people can bring their natural Christmas trees to be recycled into mulch, a nutrient-rich material often used in gardening and landscaping. During a Mulchfest, trees are shredded into mulch using wood chippers, and participants are usually offered free mulch to take home for personal use.

The event promotes eco-friendly practices by preventing discarded trees from going to landfills and repurposing them in ways that benefit the environment, such as improving soil health, retaining moisture, and reducing weeds. Some Mulchfests also

use excess mulch for community landscaping projects or even as snacks for animals, like the Town of Hempstead’s goats, that enjoy eating pine. It’s a sustainable way to “give back” during the holiday season while responsibly disposing of Christmas trees.

The eco-friendly event gives families the opportunity to extend the season of giving by repurposing their trees into nutrient-rich mulch for gardening, moisture retention, and weed prevention. Residents can take home a free bag of mulch or choose to have the mulch donated to the town’s goats. Additionally, broken-down cardboard will be accepted and recycled during the event.

For those unable to attend Mulchfest, Christmas trees can be dropped off at the homeowner disposal area next to Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve at 1600 Merrick Road through Saturday, Jan. 18, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“The Town of Hempstead proudly stands for greener and environmentally friendly programs,” Clavin said. “Come on down to Veterans Park to repurpose your Christmas tree and receive a free bag of mulch in return. Don’t forget to stop by Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve and share some with the lovable goats.”

The surplus mulch will also be used for landscaping and planting projects throughout Hempstead Town’s parks, ensuring that residents’ contributions support the community year-round.

The Town of Hempstead will hold its annual Mulchfest on Jan. 11 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park in East Meadow. Residents can turn their Christmas trees into mulch, which they can either take home or donate to the Nigerian Dwarf goats that inhabit the Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve in Merrick. Above, a goat at the park munches on a tree at a past event.

Jordan Vallone/Herald file

Reduce energy costs in an eco-friendly way

ness’s share can be supplemented by any non-federal source — state or local loans, private capital, personal loans and utility programs.

The program, which is funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, began accepting applications in 2023. The law was passed by Congress in 2021, and allocated $400 million for the Onsite Energy Program, which is now available to qualifying businesses across the country.

As of now, Yin said, $40 million of the grant funding has been spent on projects for 219 companies in 38 states — 10 of them in New York. The average grant size, he said, is around $260,000.

The program is targeted at small and medium-sized businesses, Yin explained, because, traditionally, they are not provided with much funding for large-scale energy projects like these. “They’re really the foundation of the U.S. industrial base,” he said.

Those who have applied for funding have seen the value of the program, Yin said, because it improves their facilities and makes them more competitive. Some opt for smaller-scale projects that require grants of as little as $10,000 grant, simply to improve minor energy needs, such as lighting. “That can have ripple effects,” he said. “It can make the facility more pleasant to work in, and saves them energy.”

Solages said that she co-hosted the webinar so business owners would have a chance to qualify for federal funding. Because Long Island is at the geographic end of the energy chain, she said, the area has a complex energy-generating dynamic, which makes for high energy costs.

“I’ve had many conversations with business owners, and they all complain about their energy costs,” Solages said. With inflation and climate change, she

We’re just looking at our small slice at helping small and mediumsized manufacturers save energy reduce costs, be more competitive and be more productive.

Clifton Yin

Senior supply chain deployment manager, U.S. Dept. of Energy

Sadded, and given the fact that Long Island only has one energy provider, PSEG Long Island, many businesses have a hard time saving on their energy bills.

This program, she said, is intended to be businessfriendly. “People think that to be energy-efficient, it’s unaffordable,” Solages said. “It no longer needs to be a choice between economic growth and environmental stability. These priorities are interconnected.”

Dale Davids, an Elmont resident and a small-business owner who attended the webinar, said he was excited about the program. His business, 718 Solar, provides solar panels for residential homes in 47 states. He initially saw the solar energy business as an economic opportunity, but now sees it also as an opportunity to help the environment on a larger scale.

Davids encouraged businesses to take advantage of the grant program if they qualify. “This is how you do your part,” he said. “It makes sense. It’s cleaner energy that costs less. It’s a win for Long Islanders.”

According to Yin, most of the businesses that apply for grant funding are ultimately approved, although he

did not have exact numbers. The DOE, he said, has recently improved the application process to make it as accessible to local businesses as possible.

In addition, he explained that the improvement projects usually do not require companies to interrupt operations, although he noted that it depends on the project. He reiterated that the program does not require businesses to use specific contractors for their projects, and they reserve the right to choose their own.

Yin said the DOE is looking not only to reduce energy use and emissions, but also to improve small and medium-sized businesses’ productivity. The goal, he said, is to generate a net positive for both the economy and the environment. “We’re just looking at our small slice at helping small and medium-sized manufacturers save energy reduce costs, be more competitive and be more productive,” he said.

Davids said that while his business focuses primarily on homes, it has a commercial arm that could be contracted by businesses that utilize the program. He added that the benefits of long-term energy independence, which the federal funding for technological changes makes possible, are important for business owners, and he urged them to determine their eligibility.

“It’s huge,” Davids said. “If you have a business that uses a lot of energy, you can get it from a clean source that’s local, such as wind and solar. That’s going to be better for Long Islanders who live here, too, because they won’t have to deal with pollution from businesses.”

The full list of companies that have utilized funds from the program is available on the DOE website, Energy.gov. Additional information about the program can also be found there.

Courtesy Metro Creative Graphics

the u.S. department of energy explains details of the onsite energy program, which provides grant funding for small and medium-sized businesses, to improve their energy efficiency and contribute to a clean energy economy.

Librarian responsibilities are extensive

other library staff, involves constant oversight of the books, media, devices, services and adult programming offered at the library. Programming ranges from book clubs, tax programs, defensive driving courses, exercise classes, craft projects, cooking lessons and more. Of course, he said, this is all in addition to the more conventional duties of being a librarian, such as finding books for patrons and keeping the shelves stocked.

Several years after becoming a librarian, Shimnoski said he was still shocked at what the job actually entailed. “One of the biggest parts of being a successful librarian in the community is knowing how to work with other people,” he said.

According to Shimnoski, libraries have evolved far beyond book lending. For the last 20 years, in response to people’s shifting needs in a digitized society, he has been constantly listening to feedback on what guests want from the library. Consequently, he said, everything the library offers has become digitized, including books, movies, television shows and video games. And, in order to compete with online retailers like Amazon, the library’s in-person services expanded to keep the 26,000 Franklin Square residents coming through their doors.

For example, Shimnoski proposed a program that allows patrons to borrow Roku devices, free of charge, for seven

days at a time, so community members can watch television shows and movies without having to purchase their own device or subscription.

Aviva Kane, the library’s director, said the Roku devices are now the library’s highest circulating items.

Shimnoski said the library offers plenty of unconventional services that community members might not know about, such as discounted tickets to museums and aquariums. Kane pointed out that Shimnoski also introduced notary services and a free AARP tax assistance program during tax season, which is extremely popular in the community.

People have the assumption that a librarian just sits and reads a book. Being a librarian is actually an incredibly diverse position

According to Kane, Shimnoski embraced the idea of customer service as an essential part of the library’s culture. She emphasized that this was an effort made by the entire library staff, all of whom support each other in providing services for the community beyond the books.

Shimnoski said his experience going to the library as a kid inspired him to work in one as an adult. He was raised in East Williston, and he recalled visiting the town’s local library often. He remembered how much he loved fantasy books especially JRR Tolkien’s classic novel, “The Hobbit.”

While the East Williston library was small, he remembered the librarians who would help him anytime he had a question or concern. “I thought, you know, I’d love to be that person that could do the same thing that they did for me,” he said.

Mark ShiMnoSki Librarian II, Franklin Square Public Library

“We want to make sure people are comfortable in the library, which we consider the community’s home,” Kane said. “Mark is instrumental with that, along with our other staff members.”

Shirley Chen, a senior at H. Frank Carey High School, who works under Shimnoski as a library page, said helping others is exactly what he does today. “His presence at the library makes me feel safe,” she said. “I know if I have any problems, I could go to him.”

Chen recalled being nervous on her first day working at the library, but having Shimnoski as her supervisor made her feel comfortable and welcome. “It’s a really supportive environment,” Chen said. “Working at the library, it feels like a home.” She said Shimnoski’s support-

ive nature extends to the library’s patrons, and anyone who speaks about him says he is always willing to help.

Shimnoski said he gets plenty of positive feedback from patrons who tell him that he’s introduced them to books they now love, which he said was a rewarding experience. “There’s a part of me that’s able to push books on people, but in a nice way,” he laughed. “You see their face kind of glows.”

The library sends newsletters with upcoming programs and events every three months, Shimnoski said. The library also serves non-Franklin Square residents, he added, although residents get priority registration for programs.

“I like to think that we offer an intimate, cozy experience,” he said. Although it’s a smaller library, he said, it is filled with devoted staff. If patrons ask anyone at the library for help, he continued, they always go the extra mile to make sure guests get what they need. “They’re an incredible team,” he said.

Shimnoski said now that he’s been a librarian for over a decade, he’s gained more experience in the lesser-known responsibilities of the job, which, he said, he did not learn in a classroom.

“You learn to kind of roll with the changing experiences,” he said.

To learn more about the Franklin Square Public Library’s programs and services, visit their website, FranklinSquarePL.org.

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.

STEPPING OUT

Step inside an epic adventure with Anna, Elsa and the Madrigal clan moments on ice

By Karen Bloom

Welcome the New Year in true Disney style. The latest Disney ice extravaganza arrives at UBS Arena in Elmont ready to enchant families once again. This time around the spotlight is on two of the newest tales — beloved by Disneyphiles in the Disney canon: “Frozen” and “Encanto.” Audiences can share in the special joy of these captivating adventures when Disney On Ice’s glides into UBS Arena, now through Jan. 12.

Families will be transported into two of Disney’s most popular ﬁlms as the world of Anna, Elsa, Mirabel, and the Madrigal family unfolds up close. These adored characters are, of course, joined by Mickey and his crew. Along with Minnie, Donald and Goofy, audiences will sing-along to everyone’s favorite songs interpreted through world-class skating, aerial acrobatics and dynamic special effects.

• Now through Sunday, Jan.12; times vary

• Tickets start at $35, pre-show character experience also available for a fee; purchase at ticketmaster.com or disneyonice.com or in person at box ofﬁce

• UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont

As always, the atmosphere is electric from the get-go. From the opening segment with Mickey and the gang, we quickly arrive in Arendelle to the delight of all the “Annas” and “Elsas” in the audience. Olaf, the lovable snowman who likes warm hugs and all things summer, narrates the story everyone knows so well. Artful skating (what could be more ﬁtting?) transports families to the snowy kingdom to be a part of Anna’s adventure to ﬁnd Elsa, whose icy powers unleashed an eternal winter. Kristoff and Sven take audiences along as they encounter wintry conditions in a race to bring back summer.

Elsa’s solo segment skated to “Let It Go” is among the highlights of the show’s ﬁrst half. “It’s a big moment,” says Rebekah Johnson, who — off ice at this point — is exhilarated by the audience response.

At age 19, Johnson is experiencing the Disney magic for the ﬁrst time as a performer. She joined the cast in September as an ensemble skater and couldn’t be happier.

Skating since she was two-years-old, the St. Paul, Minn.-based Johnson says “I always knew I was meant to be a show skater.”

Like her many castmates, she’s embraced Disney from a young age.

“I’ve always loved the princesses and ‘Frozen’,” she enthuses. “I’ve dreamed about skating for Disney for so long.”

From her ﬁrst Disney On Ice experience as a young child to revisiting the spectacle as a teenager more recently, she knew this was where she belonged.

“When I saw the show again, I thought ‘this is so cool.’ I still dreamed about being a princess.”

While Johnson is not quite there yet, she’s relishing every moment as the youngest member of the cast and every moment on ice.

“I’ve wanted to skate for Disney for so long,” she continues. “It’s all very surreal, but it’s real!”

After a very Frozen adventure, the show’s second half takes everyone to a vibrant town in the mountains of Colombia where we meet the Madrigals, that extraordinary family who live in

Yacht Rock Revue

The kings of ‘70s tribute hit the road with an authentic throwback to the era. Yacht Rock Revue, hailed by Rolling Stone as the “world’s premier soft-rock party band,” invites listeners on a nostalgic voyage through the ‘70s and’80s sun-soaked melodies. The Atlantabased 10-piece ensemble blends impeccable musicianship with a deep reverence for the genre. Their original album “Escape Artist” is a bold homage to this iconic sound. YRR continues to captivate audiences nationwide with their infectious energy and unabashedly joyous performances. Since their humble beginnings in 2007, YRR has emerged as pivotal in revitalizing yacht rock, sharing stages with icons and garnering a devoted following of “Anchorheads.” Whether performing in intimate venues or rocking arenas, their concerts promise an immersive musical journey that celebrates the timeless allure of smooth grooves.

Friday and Saturday, Jan.10-11, 8 p.m. $55, $40, $30, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

a magical casita in a wondrous, charmed place called an Encanto. Mirabel tells the tale of her amazing family and her journey to save the casita — her enchanted family home — alongside her sisters: Isabela, whose perfection radiates with her ability to make plants grow and ﬂowers bloom with every step, and Luisa, with the gift of super strength that she uses to help her village move buildings and reroute rivers.

For the ﬁrst time live, everyone can witness Tia Pepa, who can control the weather with her emotions; her husband Felix; their daughter Dolores, with her gift to hear; and Bruno, the mysterious and misunderstood Madrigal family member whose visions foretold the future.

“I’m especially partial to ‘Encanto,” Johnson says. “It’s so upbeat, high energy, that everyone [in the audience] gets so exited.”

And, of course, We Don’t Talk About Bruno.

Here audiences especially respond to the aerial segment, which showcases the skaters’ acrobatic skills above the ice, along with plenty of ice dancing.

“It looks magical,” Johnson says.

And that’s the timeless Disney mantra: “Anything can happen if you just believe.”

In the end, audiences leave with the understanding that everyone has their own gifts, magical or not, and being true to yourself and loving those around you is what makes you special.

Or as Johnson puts it: “Magic is inside all of us.”

At the end, special appearance from Mulan and Li Shang, Belle and Prince Adam, Ariel and Eric, Aladdin and Jasmine, Miguel from Coco, and Moana celebrate that iconic Disney “magic” in a rousing ﬁnale.

Photos courtesy Feld Entertainment

Smooth Dre’s Rhythmic Odyssey

Experience the pulse of Brooklyn hip-hop with Smooth Dre and his crew. A renowned ﬁgure in Brooklyn, he’s carved a niche in the hip-hop world with his unique style and profound lyrical narratives. Known for blending classic beats with rich, contemporary rhythms, Smooth Dre delivers music that resonates with authenticity and depth. His journey from underground circuits to mainstream stages has been marked by a steadfast dedication to his craft and an unwavering commitment to his roots. Smooth Dre’s inﬂuence extends beyond music; he is a cultural icon who embodies the spirit of hip-hop in every aspect of his life. Dive into a night of relentless beats and lyrical storytelling with Smooth Dre, a maestro of urban soundscapes, with his friends.

Saturday, Jan. 11, 8 p.m. $70. Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. (516) 323-4444 or madisontheatreny.org.

Photos: Dreams do come true when the royal sisters of Arendelle are joined by the Madrigal family in a ice spectacle that fully brings both ﬁlms to life.

THE Your Neighborhood

Dave Atell

Jan.

Start the New Year off with some laughs from one of stand-up comedy’s best, when Dave Atell visits the Paramount stage, Sunday, Jan. 19, 8 p.m. An all-timegreat joke writer, named one of the “25 Funniest People in America” by Entertainment Weekly, Atell is most at home in comedy clubs. He built a loyal following by barnstorming the country with his brand of off-color “very adult” humor, and his audiences got even bigger after his cult-favorite travel show, “Insomniac.” Atell continues to be a presence on TV — including his hit Netflix specials “Hot Cross Buns” and “Bumping Mics” — while constantly writing new material and taking it on the road. Beginning his comedy career in the early ‘90s, Attell ascended through New York’s stand-up ranks alongside the likes of Louis C.K. and Jon Stewart.

After a brief stint writing for SNL, Attell has headed several shows of his own. “Insomniac” followed Attell on late-night trips, tracking down and interviewing anyone who wasn’t asleep for some reason (usually either night workers or drunk people), while “Dave’s Old Porn...well, you can Google that one yourself.” When not on the road, Attell makes regular appearances at the Comedy Cellar in New York City. $59.50, $49.50, $44.50, $39.50, $29.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Fit As A Fiddle

Visit Long Island Children’s Museum to celebrate Family Fit Lifestyle Month, Saturday, Jan. 11, noon-2 p.m. Families can make a take-home custom fitness game to get in tip top shape by having fun, at the drop-in program. For ages 3 and up. Free with admission. Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or licm.org.

Are you game?

Bring some friends and make some new ones during game night at Elmont Memorial Library, Wednesdays, 1:30-4:30 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. There are tons of games to choose from! No registration required. First-come-first-seated. Elmont Memorial Library, 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont. For more information, visit elmontlibrary. org or call (516) 354-5280.

Lecture: Emergency Preparedness

Elmont Public Library offers an emergency response session, Saturday, Jan. 11, 1-2 p.m. Discuss how to prepare, respond, recover and get involved during natural disasters, blackouts, active shooters, ice storms, earthquakes, hurricanes and building collapse. No registration is required. First come, first seated. 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont. For more information, visit elmontlibrary. org or call (516) 354-5280.

In concert

Plaza Theatricals’ welcomes the New Year, with an Elvis tribute, Sunday, Jan. 12, 2:30 p.m. Ritchie Santa performs “Elvis Is In The House,” keeping the King’s legacy alive. Santa often shares how, even 47 years after his passing, Elvis connects people who might never have met otherwise. See the show at 700 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont. $40, $35 seniors. Elmont. For tickets, call (516) 599-6870 or visit PlazaTheatrical.com.

Elmont BOE meets

The Elmont Board of Education welcomes all to its meeting, Tuesday, Jan. 14, 8 p.m., at Elmont Road Elementary School. 135 Elmont Road. For more information, call (516) 326-5500.

Community Game Night

Looking to make some friends and play board games? Visit Franklin Square Public Library, the third Wednesday of every month, at 6 p.m., to socialize and have fun at this free program. Light refreshments will be served. No registration is required. 19 Lincoln Road. For more information, visit franklinsquarepl.org or call (516) 488-3444.

Senior Chat

Join fellow seniors for companionship, Fridays, at 10 a.m. at Elmont Public Library

Participate, or just listen, to casual discussions on special interests, concerns, and whatever happens to come up. Next meeting is Friday, Jan 3 in room 01. 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont. For more information, visit elmontlibrary. org or call (516) 354-5280.

Poetry Workshop with Dr. Linda Opyr

Bring paper, a pen, and the desire to expand your knowledge and enjoyment of writing poetry, Thursday, Jan. 9,11 a.m.-12:30 p.m., at Elmont Public Library, with Poet Laureate of Nassau County Dr. Linda Opyr. Participants have the opportunity to write poetry and share what they have written. Registration is not required. Space is limited. This is an in-person program and open to anyone. 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont. For more information, visit elmontlibrary. org or call (516) 354-5280.

Franklin Square BOE

meets Franklin Square Board of Education holds its next meeting, Wednesday, Jan. 15, 8 p.m., at John Street Elementary School. 560 Nassau Blvd., Franklin Square. For more information, call (516) 481-4100.

Musical seasons

Sands Point Preserve’s reserve’s historic mansions and waterfront grounds are the backdrop for the 2025 unique chamber music series, “Four Seasons in Music,” Sunday, Jan. 12, 3 p.m. The duoJalal ensemble-in-residence led by Kathryn Lockwood on viola, with percussionist Yousif Sheronick, violinists Deborah Buck and Emma Frucht and cellist Caroline Stinson presents a German flavored. Celebrating Germany’s rich history of extraordinary composers, including Bach, Mozart, Schubert and Brahms, to the less traditional, this concert will warm you up on a winter afternoon.

A reception follows. $56, $45 members. Sands Point Preserve, 127 Middle Neck Road. For tickets and information, visit sandspointpreserveconservancy.org or call (516) 571-7901.

Having an event?

Jan. 13

Re-gift Bingo

Re-gift Bingo- is everyone’s favorite way to unload things they don’t want or need! Join in the fun at Franklin Square Public Library, Monday, Jan. 13, 6-8 p.m. Bring up to five unopened or new items you might have received for the holidays, or items you have lying around the house that you don’t want. These items will then be placed on the prize table. You will receive a bingo card for each item that you bring. The library has some Bingo chips, but suggests bringing a bag of pennies as markers because guests will be reusing the cards for each game. Visit franklinsquarepl.org for more information or call (516) 4883444. 19 Lincoln Road.

Play canasta

Join in a friendly game of canasta, Fridays, 1-4 p.m., at Franklin Square Public Library, 19 Lincoln Road. For more information, visit franklinsquarepl.org or call (516) 488-3444.

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, the original “Deco at 100” coincides with the 100th anniversary of the 1925 Paris International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts (Exposition internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes) which publicly launched the movement. The direct follow-up to the well-received 2023 exhibit, “Our Gilded Age,” it comparably links the period’s signature innovation in the decorative arts, Art Deco, to the fine arts.

The exhibit encompasses significant cultural advancements during Long Island’s Roaring Twenties/Jazz Age movement, including votes, jobs, and the automobile for women, the beginnings of suburbia with commutation for work, and planned residential communities, which all defined the era, while the following decade brought economic reversals and the WPA program. Works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, Fernand Léger, Guy Pène du Bois, Gaston Lachaise, Elie Nadelman, and Reginald Marsh, among others, along with art deco stylists of poster art and graphics, and photography will convey the Art Deco spirit along with its furniture, decorative arts, and fashion.

Like “Our Gilded Age,” the social scene of Long Island’s Gold Coast, and its personalities — both upstairs and downstairs — will be portrayed, along with the ongoing relationship with the immediate urban context of New York with its skyscrapers and deco-styled architecture. Opens Jan. 18, on view through June 15. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Lecture: Understanding the Supreme Court

Join James Coll at Elmont Public Library, Friday, Jan.10,12:30-2 p.m., to examine the evolving role of the U.S. Supreme Court. Obtain a better sense of how the court works, how it deals with controversial issues, and how the “least dangerous branch” has secured its unique place in the American constitutional structure. No registration required. First come, first seated. 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont. For more information, visit elmontlibrary.org or call (516) 354-5280.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

NASSAU COUNTY

CHRISTIANA TRUST AS CUSTODIAN FOR GSRANZ LLC, Plaintiff against ROSALIND ELMONT CORP., et al Defendant(s)

Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Hersko & Ehrenreich P.C., 555 Willow Avenue, Cedarhurst, NY 11516, (516) 942-4216. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered November 14, 2024, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 4, 2025 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being, and identified on the land and tax map of the County of Nassau in the State of New York. Premises known as 1686 Rosalind Ave., Elmont, NY 11003. Sec 32 Block 456 Lot 117. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $9,781.59 plus interest, fees, and costs and attorney fees. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 602859/2022. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

John Boklak, Esq., Referee File # 18-4898 150758

LEGAL NOTICE

NASSAU - INDEX NO.: 620021/2023SUPPLEMENTAL

SUMMONS. Plaintiff designates NASSAU COUNTY as the place of trial based upon the location of the premises herein described having tax map Section 32, Block 440, Lot 255, ELMONT, NY, County of NASSAUU.S. BANK TRUST

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE OF LSF9

MASTER PARTICIPATION

TRUST, PLAINTIFF,against- VICKEITA

STREETER AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF SHEITA

WARREN A/K/A SHEILA BOWDEN; SHEENA STREETER AS HEIR TO

THE ESTATE OF SHEITA

WARREN A/K/A SHEILA

BOWDEN; any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or generally or specific lien upon the real

property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirsat law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of SHEILA WARREN, deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs-at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; GWENDOLYN L. WRIGHT A/K/A GWENITH WRIGHT A/K/A GWENITH STEPHENS AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF GWENDOLYN L. WRIGHT; any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or generally or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirsat law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of GWENDOLYN WRIGHT, deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs-at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; RASHAUN STEPHENS; LAKISHA POPE; SLOMINS INC.; INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF LYNBROOK; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA - INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; “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. YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not

served with this summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the Plaintiff’s Attorney within 20 days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 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 your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint.

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 mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered against you 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 your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action.

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

Dated: Syosset, New York, December 17, 2024. Roach & Lin, P.C., attorney for Plaintiff, 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 185, Syosset, NY 11791. Tel: 516-938-3100. 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, State of New York, dated November 6, 2024 and filed with the NASSAU County Clerk together with the supporting papers thereon. This is an action to foreclose a mortgage held by Plaintiff on the premises known as Section 32, Block 440, Lot 255, ELMONT, NY, County of NASSAU as described in the complaint on file and commonly known as 90 LEE COURT, ELMONT, NY 11003. 150737

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Section 202-48 of the code of the Town of Hempstead entitled, “Handicapped Parking on Public Streets,” a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 21st day of January, 2025, at 7:00 o’clock in the evening of that day, to consider the adoption of a resolution setting aside certain parking spaces for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons at the following locations:

ELMONT

KIEFER AVENUE - south side, starting at a point 93 feet west of the west curbline of Keller Avenue, west for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-565/24)

ROOSEVELT

CARROLL STREET - south side, starting at a point 65 feet west of the west curbline of Andrews Avenue, west for a distance of 16 feet.

(TH-570/24)

EAST ROOSEVELT

AVENUE - north side, starting at a point 250 feet east of the east curbline of Rose Avenue, east for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-556/24)

HOWARD AVENUEnorth side, starting at a point 284 feet west of the west curbline of John Place, west for a distance of 30 feet.

(TH-566/24) and on the repeal of the following locations previously set aside as parking spaces for physically handicapped persons:

ELMONT

MADISON STREET - south side, starting at a point 32 feet west of the west curbline of Dauntless Parkway, west for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-380/06 - 10/3/06)

(TH-563/24) INWOOD

WEST END AVENUEwest side, starting at a point 94 feet south of the south curbline of Pearl Street, south for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-523/22 - 12/6/22)

(TH-557/24)

(NR) LYNBROOK

HUDSON COURT - east side, starting at a point 152 feet north of the north curbline of Whitehall Street, north for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-105/20 - 08/4/20)

(TH-568/24)

HEMPSTEAD ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.

Dated: January 7, 2025 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

Crime watCh

auto larCeny

Authorities said an unknown subject removed two NYS license plates from a man’s vehicle while it was parked on Anderson Avenue in Franklin Square on Dec. 25 at 12:00 p.m.

arrests

Jennifer Margaret Coyne-Boccia, 48, of Franklin Square, was arrested at the Stop & Shop on Franklin Avenue

in Franklin Square for shoplifting on Dec. 22 at 11:44 a.m., according to authorities.

Sean Kelly, 46, of Franklin Square, was arrested at the Broadway Mall Target in Hicksville for shoplifting on Dec. 23 at 8:30 p.m., police said.

Denise Francis, 57, of Elmont, was arrested at the Target on Sunrise Highway in Valley Stream for shoplifting on Dec. 30 at 3:00 p.m., police said.

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.

Public Notices

DONALD X. CLAVIN, JR.

Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 150885

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR NEW CENTURY HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2005-C, ASSET BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, Plaintiff, Against JEAN PIERRE FORTURE, REBECCA FORTURE; ROSE FORTURE, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 05/08/2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on 2/11/2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 54 Biltmore Avenue, Elmont, New York 11003, And Described As Follows:

ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town Of Hempstead, County Of Nassau And State Of New York. Section 0032 Block 00426-00 Lot 36, 37, 38 And 139.

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $437,474.19 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 602172/2020

If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine. Brian Davis, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 MIDLAND AVENUE, SUITE 205, PORT CHESTER, NY 10573

Dated: 12/30/24 File Number: 19-302406 MB 150875

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT: NASSAU COUNTY. DBW TL HOLDCO LLC, Pltf. vs. PETER A. PHAGOO, et al, Defts. Index #609038/2019. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered February 4, 2021 and order to appoint substitute referee entered May 16, 2023, I will sell at public auction on the north side front steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on February 10, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., prem. k/a 178 Lincoln Street, Elmont, NY a/k/a District 16, Section 32, Block 477, Lot 54, Group Lot 54-55. Approx. amt. of judgment is $54,408.20 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. HEATHER D. CROSLEY, Referee. BRONSTER, LLP, Attys. for Pltf. 156 West 56th Street, Ste. 703, New York, NY. File No. 305409.449- #102035 150871

LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU. CITIBANK, N.A., Plaintiffagainst- RICARDO CASTILLO A/K/A RICARDO A. CASTILLO, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated July 18, 2024 and entered on July 26, 2024, I, the undersigned

Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court “Rain or Shine” located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on February 11, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. premises situate, lying and being at Elmont, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the westerly side of Stewart Street, distant 220 feet northerly from the corner formed by the intersection of the westerly side of Stewart Street with the northerly side of Atherton Avenue; being a plot 100 feet by 40 feet by 100 feet by 40 feet. Section: 32 Block: 481 Lots 42 and 43. Said premises known as 108 STEWART STREET, ELMONT, NY 11003 Approximate amount of lien $214,001.69 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.

If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney. Index Number 605713/2023.

HEATHER D. CROSLEY, ESQ., Referee David A. Gallo & Associates LLP

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 47 Hillside Avenue, 2nd Floor, Manhasset, NY 11030 File# 7777.248 {* Elmont Herald*} 150863

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Citibank N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST Kathleen Brancaleone, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered June 27, 2023, I,

the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 28, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 497 Tulip Avenue, Floral Park, NY 11001. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Village of Floral Park, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 32, Block: 273, Lot: 26. Approximate amount of judgment $542,666.53 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #609197/2019. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County COVID-19 Protocols located on the Office of Court Administration (OCA) website (https://ww2.nycourts.gov /Admin/oca.shtml) and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine”. Scott H. Siller, Esq., Referee Frenkel Lambert Weiss Weisman & Gordon, LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-091795-F00 83227 150602

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE

Full Time/Part Time

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

Salary Range is $16.50 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

EDITOR/REPORTER

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

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

Fax your ad to: 516-622-7460

E-mail your ad to: ereynolds@liherald.com

E-mail

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 $34,320 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250

HomesHERALD

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

Spectacular Center Hall Colonial

WMy meeting with a president, and what might have been

Thank you, Jimmy Carter.

When I was a student in Florence, Italy, in 1979, I was invited to a fellow student’s home in Munich. There I was awakened by loud noises out in the street, and watched a huge truck with giant arms and claws that was lifting several odd-shaped bins from two street corners at the same time.

My friend explained that this was something called “recycling.” The truck was gathering separated bins of brown, green and clear glass and paper, all at the same time. I was intrigued, and further investigated this new idea, writing six pages of notes. After I returned to the U.S., I hand-wrote that six-page letter to the president of the United States, Jimmy Carter.

Then a strange thing happened. Our office secretary in Monroe, Michigan, came to my desk and said that a man named William Ruckleshaus, chairman of the federal Environmental Protection Agency, was on the phone, and wanted to speak to me. He explained that President Carter had received my letter and wanted to meet. I was 22 years old.

Because it was election time, the president was doing town hall meetings across the country, and selected a high school near my home in Toledo, Ohio. I was sent a special pass to give to Secret Service agents, and on Oct. 25, 1980, at 9:42 am, in a crowded gymnasium, I presented my pass to a tall Marine-like agent who seemed to be aware of the arrangement. He didn’t hesitate. I was walked behind a backdrop by two agents, down a hallway and seated in a classroom.

In walked President Carter, and he came over, shook my hand and sat in a school desk next to me. He was holding my letter on recycling, and we discussed the many specific things he was interested in implementing, starting with government, to reduce waste in the United States. I kept answering, “Yes, Mr. President,” and he kept saying, “Call me Jimmy.”

As we talked, he smiled that big Jimmy Carter grin, and I kept thinking he was too genuinely sincere, too nice to be the president, too down-to-earth — and how surreal the moment was. But the most surreal of all was when he asked me if I would come to Washington, D.C., and work with him to implement this program from the White House. I immediately answered, “Yes, Mr. President,” still unable to call him Jimmy. Then he smiled at me one more time and said, “Of course, I have to get re-elected.”

He lost to Ronald Reagan, and the rest is history. I always wonder how my life would have been, working with the president, overseeing a new program that never materialized. I wouldn’t have crossed paths with the young lady who has shared my life for 43 years, never enjoyed the two daughters we raised or the grandchildren we fuss over, might not have opened my own architectural practice, moved to Long Island or started writing a column for the Herald. I wonder. Thank you, Jimmy Carter!

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

Ask The Architect

Monte Leeper

FACTORY CAR COVER: For a Ford Mustang. Used Only 2 Times. $99. 516-993-8001

FLEXIBLE FLYER SLED, Classic steel rail, Wooden deck, 16"wide 54"long In Baldwin. $10 (516) 254-3640

STEMWARE, CRYSTAL FROM Macy's Water, Wine, Champagne. 6 each. Original Boxes. Never Used. $95. (516)225-9191

SERVICES

Cable/TV/Wiring

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

E-Z ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC. All Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas. Services/Repairs. Violations Removed. Free Estimates Low Rates. 516-785-0646 Lic/Ins.

Exterminating

PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-866-448-8311 Have zip code of property ready when calling!

Home Improvement

AFFORDABLE RATES

Kitchens, Bathrooms, Painting Renovations And Repairs Free Estimates Licensed/ Insured CBJ Home Improvements LLC 917-865-5927, 516-218-2448

BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-855-399-2076

CARPENTRY & PAINTING: Residential/ Commercial. All Phases. Licensed/Insured. FREE ESTIMATES! Anthony & J Home Improvements 516-678-6641

DO YOU KNOW what's in your water? Leaf Home Water Solutions offers FREE water testing and whole home water treatment systems that can be installed in as little one day. 15% off your entire purchase. Plus 10% senior & military discounts. Restrictions apply. Schedule your FREE test today. Call 1-866-247-5728

PREPARE FOR POWER outages with Briggs & Stratton® PowerProtect(TM) standby generators - the most powerful home standby generators available. Industry-leading comprehensive warranty - 7 years ($849 value.) Proudly made in the U.S.A. Call Briggs & Stratton 1-888-605-1496

Miscellaneous

GET BOOST INFINITE! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 844-329-9391

Plumbing

PLUMBER! PLUMBER! PLUMBER! FREE ESTIMATES! Heating, Repairs, Installations. $25 OFF New Customers. 24 Hour Emergency Response. Family Plumbing. 516-599-1011.

Telephone Services

CONSUMER CELLULAR - the same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-844-919-1682

Satellite/TV Equipment

DIRECTV- All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Direct and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Health & Fitness

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-855-399-2719

Attention: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 1-855-399-2582

HEARING AIDS!! HIGH-QUALITY rechargeable, powerful Audien hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Tiny and NEARLY INVISIBLE! 45-day money back guarantee! 855-819-7060

Legal Services

INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT? Don't Accept the insurance company's first offer. Many injured parties are entitled to major cash settlements. Get a free evaluation to see what your case is really worth. 100% Free Evaluation. Call Now: 1-888-454-4717. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest provider

Telecommunications

AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET. If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-855-399-2803

Autos Wanted

Once again, there’s a New Yorker in the White House

When Donald Trump is inaugurated as our 47th president the week after next, he will (once again) be the only president since Franklin Delano Roosevelt who is a born-and-bred New Yorker. Despite his recent relocation to Florida, where he has presided from Mar-a-Lago like an overlord, Trump has never escaped his New York roots. This is important to New York and Long Island. I say this not because of any native-son pride, but because downstate New York has unique issues and challenges that can be best understood and addressed by a true New Yorker. Like me, Trump grew up in Queens, but that’s where the geographic comparison ends. He was raised in very upscale Jamaica Estates. I grew up in very bluecollar Sunnyside. Same time; different stations. Of course, that didn’t stop

Trump from implying to people in Washington that he and I grew up together. So much so that non-New York members of Congress would ask me, “What kind of guy was he growing up?” And my misleading non-answer would always be, “Same as he is today.”

WDespite the very different economic aspects of our upbringings, Trump and I, in many ways, spoke the same language. I distinctly remember when he invited me to the White House in February 2017, a few weeks after his inauguration, for a routine billsigning ceremony. As we spoke for just a few minutes, he gave a big smile and said, “It’s great to hear that New York accent down here.”

anti-MS-13 efforts succeeded in crushing the gang’s reign of terror in Nassau and Suffolk counties.)

e’ll need President Trump’s support and cooperation to address critical issues.

Probably the most relaxed I ever saw Trump was when he invited me to join him at ringside for a night of UFC fights at Madison Square Garden in November 2019. The loud fullhouse crowd chanting “USA!” and giving him thumbs ups was a stark contrast to the Ukraine impeachment proceedings against him that were under way at the same time in Washington.

This year, his giant rallies at Madison Square Garden and the Nassau Coliseum were major parts of his winning campaign.

Executive Bruce Blakeman, county Republican Party Chairman Joe Cairo and former Congressman Lee Zeldin. Trump’s brother Robert lived in Garden City for many years until he died in 2020. On a somber note, I was there last March when Trump came to the funeral home in Massapequa to comfort the family of murdered NYPD hero Jonathan Diller.

Several times when I was talking with him on Air Force One, when he was flying to Long Island to address the MS-13 murder spree, I felt as if I were speaking with just another guy on a Queens street corner, and had to keep reminding myself that I was talking to the president of the United States. (His

Trump also had friendships with Long Islanders such as former U.S. Sen. Al D’Amato, from his years in Washington, and Joe Mondello, who was Trump’s attorney in several business transactions and was later appointed ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago by Trump. More recently, the president-elect has formed close friendships with County

Over the next several years, New York will need the support and cooperation of President Trump to address critical issues, including illegal immigration, crime and drugs, health care for those who continue to be affected by the aftermath of the Sept. 11 attacks, aging infrastructure, congested traffic and high taxes. We will especially need him to fight off anti-New York elements in the Republican Party who have too often in the past clearly demonstrated their geographic bias. Together, whether Republican or Democrat, New Yorkers should work to find common ground with the president to make New York great again.

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

The challenge of being president in challenging times

We are entering a new year, in which there will be many challenges for all of us. But the biggest ones will be for President-elect Donald Trump, who is about to embark on a historic second term. We know what he will do on Inauguration Day, but the real question is what kind of president he will be when the history of his second term is written.

Trump made many promises to voters, and there is no doubt that he will fulfill many of them. Voters were clearly concerned about the immigration challenges at the borders, and Trump has pledged to close them down and begin a program of mass deportations. Many voters were unhappy with the way our government works, and for better or worse, there will be changes. The proposed appointees to the Trump cabinet are in most cases total unknowns when it comes to government experience. Thinking that his new

team will be able to function effectively is a big wish that may or may not come true. Many of the proposed cabinet members have never run any type of business, and in some cases their only qualification is that Trump likes them. That could be a recipe for disaster.

Thinking that Trump’s new team will be able to function effectively is a big wish.

Aside from the promise to shut down the borders, the big Trump pledge was that he would do something about the high cost of things like eggs and other household needs. In the weeks since the election, he has made it clear that cutting down on such things as grocery costs is too difficult to accomplish.

Much of his presidency will be defined on Jan. 20, when he will sign a number of executive orders. Some may win broad public acceptance, but others may lead Trump voters to question whether they were the reason they supported him. The pledge to pardon Jan. 6 rioters pleased a small segment of the population, but freeing convicted thugs would send the wrong message in a country that prides itself on law and order.

Trump has pledged to dramatically

cut energy costs by embarking on massive oil and gas drilling programs. Whether that can have any effect is questionable, because the country experienced record oil and gas drilling in 2024, and creating extra product doesn’t mean that prices will go down. We consumers know from experience that the oil and gas producers don’t give any discounts to motorists or homeowners.

Some Trump voters have expressed a desire for our country to curtail any overseas relationships and to once again make the United States into an isolationist country. We went through that experience in the 1930s, when Adolf Hitler was beginning to map out his plan to control Europe and the rest of the world. Since those dark days, we, our friends and supporters have created NATO, and our country has assured our allies that we will defend them if any of our enemies attack them. Obviously, that means China or Russia.

There is no doubt that the Trump presidency will bring about many changes in the way our nation functions. History shows that every president makes some type of imprint on the

country. In many cases, he spends a lot of time trying to erase his predecessor’s accomplishments, and Trump will devote a substantial amount of time to doing exactly that.

In the run-up to Jan. 20, he has talked about a takeover of Greenland and a seizure of the Panama Canal. Greenland still has strong ties to Denmark, which we can be sure isn’t in the mood to give up a land mass rich in precious minerals and other raw materials. Panama controls the canal under a treaty entered into by President Jimmy Carter. Serious attempts to seize the canal would raise questions around the world about America’s written word.

Four years go by fast, and as the clock ticks, historians assess the accomplishments and mistakes of every president. We hope there will be many positive changes from a Trump administration, and that America will be a better place after his tenure ends. That’s my wish for 2025 and beyond, and, I’m sure, everyone’s hope.

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.

JERRY KREMER

Franklin square/elmont

Established 1998

Incorporating the Franklin Square/Elmont Record

Renee DeLoRenzo

Reporter

RhonDa GLickman Vice President - Sales office

2 Endo Boulevard Garden City, NY 11530

Phone: (516) 569-4000

Fax: (516) 569-4942

Web: www.liherald.com

E-mail: fseditor@liherald.com

HERALD

COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS

Cliff Richner

Publisher,

Feeling under siege? Combat the chaos.

are you still emotionally shaken by the violent, seemingly random acts that occurred shortly before we turned the calendar and again on New Year’s Day?

On Dec. 22, a woman was burned alive on a Brooklyn subway train. On New Year’s Eve, a man was critically injured when he was pushed into the path of an oncoming subway train in Manhattan.

On Jan. 1, the year just hours old, we awoke to the news of multiple deaths and dozens of injuries when a pickup truck plowed into a crowd of revelers on Bourbon Street in New Orleans. Later that morning, a Tesla Cybertruck detonated outside a Trump Hotel in Las Vegas, killing the driver and injuring seven others. And four gunmen opened fire outside a nightclub in Queens that night, injuring 10.

When these kinds of headlines intrude into our lives, we may feel as though the world is unraveling. The ripple effects are profound: Lives are lost or forever changed, public spaces are emptied, and once-reliable joys like festivals, parades and football bowl games are relegated to the realm of unimportance.

This sense of being constantly on edge is exhausting. But amid the grief and uncertainty, there are ways to process our emotions, respond constructively, and help ourselves and others find solace and strength.

What should we do?

When violence or tragedy strikes, the

letters

Advocating for child care in New York

To the Editor:

The year ahead will be filled with uncertainty and opportunity. Our leaders in New York must create the conditions necessary for every child to thrive, while safeguarding our state’s safety net.

We must demand full funding for our child care and public education systems, ensure that every family has a home and access to health care, guarantee clean air and safe environments, and protect every immigrant. We must demand that our state takes a bold position and does not waver from it. Most important, we must demand that the ultra-wealthy and extremely profitable corporations pay their fair share, because that’s the key to funding the essential services that help everyone succeed.

For too long, corporate politicians and their wealthy donors have put their interests ahead of the needs of our public schools, child care and working families. It’s time for a change. Here’s what we’re fighting for to make this

first imperative is safety. Avoiding highrisk situations and being vigilant in public spaces are more important than ever.

We must also safeguard our emotional and psychological well-being. Start with staying informed, but not letting yourself be overwhelmed. The 24-hour news cycle has a way of amplifying fear, and while information is crucial, it’s equally important to recognize when it’s time to step back. Be selective about your sources of information, and balance the hard truths of current events with stories that remind you of the good in humanity.

It’s also essential to strengthen our communities. Feeling under siege isolates us, making us retreat into individual fear. But fear is best countered collectively. Reach out to neighbors, join local groups or participate in civic events that promote unity.

Advocate for solutions. Moments of crisis are not always random acts of chaos; they are often symptoms of systemic issues, whether it’s gun violence, mental health crises or deep societal divisions. Supporting policies and groups that address these root causes — and working constructively with people whose opinions differ on the issues — is one way to reclaim a sense of agency in a world that feels out of control.

How should we feel?

The emotions stirred by these tragedies are complex and valid. There’s fear, anger, sadness and sometimes even guilt

— guilt over feeling powerless or for wanting to escape the constant barrage of bad news. It’s important to allow yourself to feel these emotions without judgment.

Be resilient. Focus on what you can control. Small, deliberate acts — reaching out to a friend, writing to a policymaker or simply stepping outside for a walk — can help restore a sense of balance. While we may not be able to prevent every tragedy, we can control how we respond to them.

How can we help?

Be present. Show up for others. Simple gestures, such as offering an attentive ear or a comforting word, are appreciated. Help the people who are directly affected. Donate to relief funds, volunteer at community centers or contribute to organizations addressing the systemic causes of violence and instability.

Share stories of courage, kindness and resilience. Elevate these stories — not in an effort to persuade others to ignore the pain, but to remind you and them that even in the darkest moments, light filters through.

Feeling under siege doesn’t mean we are powerless. It means that we are called to action — both in our personal lives and in our communities. We are called to care for one another, to demand better from our leaders, and to work toward a future in which safety and joy are not fleeting privileges but shared realities.

Let’s put politics aside and just save lives

in politics, disagreements are inevitable. They’re part of a system designed to encourage debate and foster diverse perspectives. But some issues transcend politics — or at least they should.

The fight to equip our first responders with life-saving epinephrine autoinjectors, or EpiPens, is one of those issues. And yet, despite its life-or-death implications, my legislation to mandate EpiPens in Nassau County police vehicles has been stonewalled by County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Republican leaders in the Legislature.

I introduced this bill inspired by stories like that of Georgina Cornago, whose son Gio died tragically in 2013 of an allergic reaction. Georgina has turned her unimaginable pain into a relentless mission to prevent others from suffering the same loss. Through her foundation, Love for Giovanni, she’s educated countless people about the dangers of food allergies, advocated for epinephrine accessibility and helped save lives. Her story has touched the hearts of many, including mine.

nCornago’s advocacy has already borne fruit. In 2019, thanks to her tireless efforts, New York passed Gio’s Law, which allows first responders like police officers to carry epinephrine. But her mission is far from over. On a national stage, she continues to push for epinephrine to be as ubiquitous as AEDs, ensuring that no child — or parent — is left defenseless against anaphylaxis. Yet here in Nassau County, where Gio’s story began, we’ve failed to honor his legacy by failing to act.

Anaphylaxis doesn’t care about your socioeconomic status, your neighborhood or your political affiliation. It can strike anyone, anywhere, at any time. A child at a birthday party accidentally eating the wrong cake. A teenager at a school event who doesn’t realize there are peanuts in the dessert. A parent walking in the park. Seconds can mean the difference between life and death, and police officers, often the first on the scene of an emergency, can administer epinephrine quickly.

lives and the peace of mind it offers families. Training officers to use the devices takes less than 30 minutes. Nassau police officers already carry Narcan to combat opioid overdoses, and equipping them with EpiPens is a logical, lifesaving next step.

assau County police should carry potentially lifesaving EpiPens.

Cornago has said time and again, “Every second counts.” Yet here we are, wasting months on partisan bickering while lives hang in the balance. Neighboring Suffolk County has already implemented similar measures, demonstrating both the feasibility and necessity of such a program.

So why are Nassau Republicans blocking this bill? The answer escapes me, and I suspect it escapes the parents who worry every day about their children’s safety. This obstructionism isn’t just shortsighted — it’s morally indefensible.

standard. Imagine a Nassau County in which every patrol car carries the tools to save a life. Imagine the relief parents would feel knowing their local police officers are equipped to protect their children from anaphylaxis. This is an achievable goal, and it starts with passing this legislation.

Cornago’s advocacy has shown us what’s possible when determination meets compassion. She’s organized events like Trunk or Treat to create safe spaces for kids with allergies. She’s worked to install public signs in parks, raising awareness of food allergies. She’s even helped educate school districts about the need for accessible EpiPens. Her efforts have saved lives. Now it’s time for the County Legislature to do its part.

At just $100 per EpiPen thanks to a new price cap on the drug — a cost that could be reduced through bulk purchasing — the cost of implementing this program is negligible, especially when weighed against the potential to save

Letters

happen:

■ Tax the ultra-wealthy and corporations. New York has the public dollars we need, but only when we pass legislation that makes millionaires, billionaires and highly profitable corporations pay their fair share. The Invest in Our New York campaign shows how we can raise revenue to support our schools, affordable child care and working families. By ensuring fair taxation, we will finally provide the support our kids, educators, and child-care workers have needed for far too long.

■ A fairer, stronger future for all. Every child needs access to a highquality education, no matter their background. But we can’t make that happen without a state budget that prioritizes equity. The Invest in Our New York campaign offers a blueprint for raising the public dollars needed to fund our education and child-care programs. It’s time for a state budget that focuses on the well-being of all New Yorkers — not just the wealthiest.

Your voice is crucial to making these changes a reality. Join us for Child Care Advocacy Day, on Jan. 28, and AQE Advocacy Day, on Feb. 4. Together we can ensure that the 2025 budget prioritizes public education,

early care and learning, and universal child care, so that all of New York’s children have the resources they need to succeed.

Let’s make 2025 the year we secure a more just and equitable future for every New Yorker.

ZAkIYAH SHAAkIR-ANSARI

MARINA MARCOu-O’MALLEY Co-executive

directors, Alliance for Quality Education NY

He’ll miss ‘Blue Bloods,’ too

To the Editor:

Re Peter king’s column, “Like many other devotees, I’ll miss ‘Blue Bloods’ dearly (Dec. 19-25): I agree with you, Mr. king: “Blue Bloods” will be missed. It was very well acted and written. What really bothers me is that CBS would not reconsider, despite strong ratings and even stronger outcry about the show ending.

How about another network taking the show, or even better, HBO? It would have worked. It’s a shame that it ended its run this way.

TONY GIAMETTA Oceanside

It’s time for us to focus on what truly matters: protecting our community. For years, Cornago has been fighting to ensure that no other family has to endure the loss she suffered. Her dedication should inspire us all. Yet instead of supporting her mission, some in the Legislature seem more intent on scoring political points.

Imagine a world in which Gio’s Law isn’t just a state initiative but a national

To my Republican colleagues, I say, listen to Georgina. Listen to the countless parents who’ve written, called and pleaded for action. Listen to the doctors and first responders who know what’s at stake. This is not about politics; it’s about saving lives.

Let’s not allow bureaucracy and partisanship to stand in the way of progress. We owe it to Gio’s memory, to Georgina’s tireless efforts, and to every Nassau County family to act now. Passing this legislation is not just the right thing to do — it’s the only thing to do.

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

Framework by Alexis Morledge

At Blarney Castle — but did he kiss the stone? — County Cork, Ireland