Seaford Herald 12-19-2024

lighting up the holidays

The Seaford Fire Department hosted its annual Christmas tree lighting on Dec. 7, and the festively dressed Seaford High School band and chorus performed. Story, more photos, Page 16.

Three cheers for repeat state champs!

By CHARlES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com

Hard work and dedication paid off for the Seaford varsity cheer team last month, when it captured the New York State Public High School Athletic Association’s Game Day Championship in Class C, after winning the Class B title in 2023. In the competition, which took place at Hudson Valley Community College in upstate Troy, the Seaford squad went up against 8 other teams from high schools of similar size across the state.

Wand has always been competitive. Cheerleading, she said, is a unique sport that doesn’t involve going head to head with another team. Instead, the competition focuses on one squad at a time.

e didn’t necessarily

“We always kind of preach to them and have them focus on themselves, and not about their competition, not about any other team,” Ferrari said.

know what to expect. We just hoped for the best.

liSA FERRARi Coach, Seaford varsity cheer team

Uniting for good causes at Wantagh H.S. Council leaders hope to turn

By CHARlES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com

Wantagh High School students Danny Donahue and Isabella Kugal are hoping to make a difference as co-presidents of the Student Council by encouraging their peers to make a positive impact in their community.

Donahue, a junior, and Kugal, a senior, have been Student Council members since they were freshmen, but this is their first year as co-presidents. Their goal is to engage the entire student body with activities that bring awareness to several issues, such as food insecurity, bullying and mental health.

their classmates into activists

Last month, Donahue and Kugal mobilized students to write letters of gratitude to veterans at the Northport VA Medical Center. Donahue remembered writing similar letters to veterans when he attended Forest Lake Elementary School and wanted to continue the tradition as a high school student.

Students were given a format about what to write, thanking the veterans for their service, and they were encouraged to add something personal, such as a connection to the veteran.

“We really wanted to show our thanks to those who don’t really have friends or family this holiday season, because they’re veterans in the hos-

Preparing for the competition as defending champions, the girls were well aware of how much work they needed to do to win again, coach Lisa Ferrari said. “Coming in as a state champ, you feel more pressure to keep that up and to continue last year,” she said. “We didn’t necessarily know what to expect. We just hoped for the best.” Ferrari has coached the squad for 17 years, she said,

The Seaford team represented Nassau County’s Section 8 in the state Class C contest on Nov. 10, a week after it won the county championship. The team comprises 21 athletes who spend three hours a day, six days a week, perfecting their routines.

After all nine squads in Class C performed in a preliminary round, the top three qualifiers — Seaford, Putnam Valley and Chenango Forks — did so again in the finals. In a unique situation this year, two reigning champs competed against

Continued on page 8

Steve Sachs/Herald

A refreshing hot chocolate after a cold run

By CHARLES SHAW cshaw@liherald.com

The Seaford Wellness Council hosted its 19th annual Hot Chocolate 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, Dec. 7, drawing participants from across the community to Seaford High School. The event, which promotes community wellness and serves as a fundraiser for local initiatives, featured runners, walkers, and families enjoying a crisp December morning.

Myles Munro emerged as the winner of the race, claiming first place, followed by Frank Delguercio in second place and Christopher Koegel in third. Each runner showcased determination and spirit as they crossed the finish line to cheers from spectators lining the course.

Michael Di Silvio, president of the Seaford Wellness Council, expressed pride in the event’s continued success.

“It’s a great way for families to get together and enjoy a healthy walk or run,” Di Silvio said. “The energy and enthusiasm of everyone who participates is what makes this event so special.”

The Hot Chocolate 5K began in the 1980s and was revived by the council in 2004 after a 15-year hiatus. Initially attracting around 200 participants, the event has grown significantly over the years, with nearly 1,000 participants just before the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the event was on hold for two years during the pandemic, it has rebounded strongly, becoming a staple in the Seaford community calendar.

The course, which starts and ends at Seaford High School, has remained consistent over the years,

though the council has considered modifying the finish line to the school’s track field to accommodate other activities. Participants enjoy the scenic route, and the event culminates with a festive gathering featuring hot chocolate, bagels, and raffles for the participants.

Funds raised from the 5K directly support community programs and initiatives, including youth programs, socials for older adults, and partnerships with Seaford schools. The council also sponsors summer concerts in collaboration with the Seaford Public Library and co-hosts the Veterans Day “Field of Honor” with the Seaford American Legion.

The wellness council, a non-profit organization comprised of teachers, business owners, local leaders, and residents, is dedicated to improving the quality of life in Seaford. Beyond organizing the 5K, the council is credited with numerous projects, including the construction of the gazebo at the Seaford train station and the renovation of Washington Avenue Park. The group also focuses on educational initiatives, inviting speakers to Seaford schools to discuss leadership, motivation, and substance abuse awareness.

With senior board members planning to retire soon, the council is seeking new members to continue its mission of fostering wellness and positive change. “We’re looking for dedicated, energetic people who want to make an impact in our community,” Di Silvio said.

Mike Monahan/Herald photos

Hundreds gathered at Seaford High School on Dec. 7 to participate in the Seaford Wellness Council’s 19th annual Hot Chocolate 5k Run/Walk.

Winner Myles Munro, center, celebrated his win with State Sen. Steve Rhoads, Congressman Anthony D’Esposito, County Legislator Michael Giangregorio, and Town of Hempstead Councilman Chris Schneider.

Sponsoring the event was Dave Denenberg, left, with honorary starters George Brennan and Michael Timko. Joining them was event organizer Peter Ruffner, right.

Christopher Koegel, of Wantagh, placed third in the Hot Chocolate 5K Run/Walk on Dec. 7.

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

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

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

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

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

HannukaH greeTing

Happy holidays – Blessed be the land of the free!

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

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

The story of Hanukkah amplifies the need for these privileges. It is a tale of a triumph of light over darkness, good vs. evil. The Jewish people were prohibited to study and learn the five books of Moses and were commended by the Greeks to abstain from any Jewish practices. To avoid being caught, the Jewish children were supplied with toys, spinning dreidels. Whenever the Greek soldiers approached the children pulled their dreidels out and played.

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

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

L et us

Being free to practice our spiritual convictions is a gift that was handed down to us by the founders of this country. It is crucial and essential for us to carry down this torch and continue implementing the first amendment in the spirit of those who wrote it. We should respect any faith-group or non-religion and remember to look out of our comfort zone and see beauty in every credence. My congregation was honored to host an interfaith service a couple of weeks ago. The harmony of the prayers of several groups of faiths was unmatched. Peace relies on the principle of respecting others and their beliefs, so in this holiday season I invite you to enjoy the lights and happiness in your home, with your friends and family and in our brilliantly decorated streets!

Happy Holidays!

Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum, PhD

Rabbi Moshe Weisblum is the spiritual leader of Congregation Beth Tikvah in Wantagh

K now

News Brief items including awards, honors, promotions and other tidbits about local residents are welcome. Photographs may be emailed as well. Deadline for submissions is noon Thursday, week prior to publication. Send to execeditor@liherald.com

R abbi M oshe Weisblu M

by Susan Jeffers — Part Two

Merry Christmas to the people of God CHRISTMAS MESSAGE

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

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

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

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

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

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

and in all countries.

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

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

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

Local officials join Kiwanis for beach up

State sen. Steve Rhoads joined the Wantagh High School Key Club for their Beach Clean Up at Jones Beach. Accompanied by councilman Chris Schneider and legislator Michael Giangregorio, the group worked to clean up the beach.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sincerely in Christ,

Most Reverend John O. Barres

Bishop of Rockville Centre

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

ReveRend

John o. BaRRes

Courtesy office of State Sen. Steve Rhoads

Student Council co-presidents have big ideas

pital,” Donahue said.

Wantagh students wrote more than 100 letters, which Donahue then delivered to the medical center, he said. This initiative, he added, was the first that the Student Council co-presidents had organized themselves, and they were excited to see how it panned out.

Also last month, students participated in the Battle of the Classes, an annual food drive in which each grade competes to see who can donate the most food. Donahue and Kugal helped organize the event, collecting canned and boxed goods. Around 300 items of food were collected, they said, which were organized into 10 boxes to help feed families in Wantagh for Thanksgiving, with the rest being donated to local food pantries.

Battle of the Classes is one of the school’s greatest undertakings, Donahue said, and the council co-presidents encouraged students to participate by informing them that there are those who are less fortunate that struggle to feed themselves and their families.

“We emphasize that we’re so fortunate to be able to not struggle, and then we highlight that other people are struggling with things that we take for granted,” Donahue said. “Since we have the opportunity to give back, we should be taking up on that opportunity.”

This month, the Student Council is

holding a clothing drive, with students bringing in shirts, pants and other articles of clothing that’ll help keep families in need warm this winter. For Donahue, it only takes a little bit of effort to make a difference.

“We’re trying to emphasize school spirit and a sense of community within the student body,” he said.

Donahue and Kugal expressed hopes of organizing an event each month to help different causes. In January, they plan to encourage Christmas tree donations to mulch companies, turning the trees into mulch for the environment. In March, they will continue the trend of helping the environment with Earth Awareness Month, and would like to work with the school’s environmental clubs to create a community garden. Kugal said the council will need approval first, but believes it would be a great way for students to see how much of an impact they can make.

“We wanted to raise awareness for environmental issues, and kind of do a project where it’s really showing what we can do as a community to help this issue,” Kugal said.

Other projects include creating an anti-bullying sign in February, with students signing it. The co-presidents also want to highlight autism awareness in April, with the Student Council establishing a showcase in the main lobby and lunchrooms, two of the school’s

most frequented areas, for students to gather information about autism.

“We (will) put famous people who have autism that people might not know about, and we (will) put up facts about autism and bring awareness to it in that way as well,” Donahue said.

From May to June, Donahue said council members want to prioritize mental health awareness. In addition to a showcase, they want to set up mental health breaks in class where teachers shut the rooms’ lights to give students a five-minute rest.

Donahue and Kugal said they are both passionate about helping out with different causes. Kugal noted that it is gratifying to work with members of Student Government, who also want to contribute by making positive changes in the community.

“I’m just super-proud of myself and both of us and all of Student Government, that we’re the leaders of this change,” Kugal said. “We can make an impact for those who are not able to have these types of things.”

Charles Shaw/Herald isabella Kugal and danny donahue, co-presidents of the Wantagh High School Student Council, have been hard at work engaging the student body with projects that have made a positive impact in their communities.

Cheer team brings home another state title

each other: Seaford was in Class B in 2023, while Putnam Valley won Class C.

Seaford cheerleader Hayley Kern, a senior, said it was difficult to predict which defending champions would win.

“Right before we went off to finals, we watched them go,” Kern said of Putnam Valley. “We’re like, ‘They’re good. We just hope to be better.’ I feel like it was the most competition we’ve had.”

The performances, Ferrari explained, are broken into four segments emulating a game day, with band chants, regular and situational sideline cheers, and a fight song. Similar to a football game, announcers called out specific scenarios, such as first downs and touchdowns, and judges graded the cheerleaders on their performance.

“It was very exciting,” Seaford senior Melissa Phieffer said. “We knew exactly what we had to do from last year, and we knew we had to get the crowd excited and engage with them. We knew we had to put on a show, and that’s exactly what we did.”

The Seaford squad was the last to perform in both the prelims and finals, which Ferrari said carried an “extra weight,” because every other team was waiting to see what the defending champions would do.

“Your competition has already gone before you, and now you need to do better than them,” Ferrari said. “You feel that pressure, because everybody’s kind of just staring at you, waiting to see what you’re going to do.”

Seaford’s score of 90.10 in the finals beat out Putnam Valley by .20 points.

“All of our hard work finally paid off,” Seaford senior Codi Kasparian said. “We went in there not knowing what would happen, because we did go

against another team that was a state champ last year, too, and they probably worked just as hard.”

The cheer team has a strong work ethic, Ferrari said, and trains harder than any athletes she knows. She and assistant coach Brenda Martin dedicated many hours as well to make sure the team performed its best.

“As a coach, I’m just very proud of them,” Ferrari said. “We work hard, me and my assistant coach, Brenda, and you just hope that all of that work and all of those hours and the labor will pay off.”

FAITH-BASED BREAKFAST

Join the Alzheimer’s Association, the Divine Health Ministry of Memorial Presbyterian Church and SoulJoy Wellness for a morning of self-care. We will explore how Alzheimer’s and related dementias impact our community and discuss healthy habits for your brain, body and soul. To register, call 800.272.3900, visit alz.org/longisland or scant the QR code. Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Memorial Presbyterian Church Social Hall

Courtesy Lisa Ferrari

the Seaford varsity cheer team won the new York State public High School athletic association’s game day Championship in Class C last month, after capturing the Class B title last year.

Jingle All the Way 5K supports local foundation

Runners and walkers of all ages turned out for the “Jingle All the Way 5K” at Cedar Creek Park in Seaford on Dec. 8 to benefit the John Theissen Children’s Foundation. The festive event featured a 5K race and a kids 1K run, with many participants donning holiday attire, including Grinch-themed costumes.

Children enjoyed a marshmallow roast as part of the family-friendly activities. Proceeds from the event will help the Wantaghbased foundation continue its work supporting children in need.

— Charles Shaw

At the event, children roasted marshmallows over a log fire.

Holiday shop with a cop brings joy to children

The Michael Geraldi-Ray Abear Holiday Shop with a Cop took over Matty’s Toy Stop in Hewlett for the fifth consecutive year to create holiday magic.

On Dec. 7, 213 children from all over Long Island and the city, who have lost a parent or loved one in the line of duty, shopped for $100 worth of toys and games accompanied by volunteers. They also shopped for $50 worth of toys for children at New York University Langone Mineola Child Life Department.

Officers from 18 departments including Nassau County, New York Police Department, state troopers, FBI and local villages, participated.

Project Thank A Cop, a nonprofit run by Wantagh residents Andy and Maegan Fox, coordinated this event.

“What started out as an idea and had 40 kids the first year in 2020 has expanded to 213 kids in five years, it’s all donor funded and you can sponsor kids individually or with groups,” Andy said.

The grand total for toys was $42,000 and filled 33 tote bags. Children enjoyed a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with bottomless hot cocoa and pizza.

“The HWBA is proud to be an annual sponsor and advertiser of this great event,” said David Friedman, HWBA president. “Maegan and Andy’s crew and members of law enforcement devote so much effort to making the kids happy.”

For more information about Project Thank a Cop, go to, PTACop.org.

— Melissa Berman

Jacob Cruz of the Police Explorers, Jaeden Farquharson, and Linda Polizzi peruse the aisles of Matty’s Toy Shop in Hewlett with Wade Ericsson, 10, on Dec. 7.

Steve Sachs/Herald photos

Robert Granger played announcing duties during the Jingle All the Way 5K at Cedar Creek Park.

Alice Moreno/Herald Photos

FBI Explorer Sofia Morillo, right, shops for Ana Santana, 3, bottom left, by picking out dolls.

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.

Public hearing divides opinion on Sands casino

By KELSIE RADZISKI kradziski@liherald.com

The draft environmental impact statement for the proposed Las Vegas Sands resort and casino at the site of the Nassau Coliseum was met with both resounding support and critical opposition at a public hearing at the Nassau County Legislature on Monday.

It was a very comprehensive and a very complete draft EIS.

ADRIEnnE ESpoSIto

Executive Director, Citizens Campaign for the Environment

Las Vegas Sands officially submitted the DEIS to the Legislature last month, after a unanimous vote by legislators confirming the document’s completion and availability for public review.

The DEIS outlines a range of investments — totaling more than $150 million — aimed at modernizing Uniondale’s infrastructure and revitalizing the hamlet and surrounding communities, according to a Sands news release. The projects include expanding the Meadowbrook Parkway to alleviate traf-

fic congestion, enhancing the Uniondale water district to improve its sustainability and upgrading energy infrastructure to meet growing demand.

Beautification initiatives are also planned to improve the area’s public spaces, as part of Las Vegas Sands’ effort to enhance both aesthetics and quality of life for residents and visitors.

“We are grateful to the Nassau County Legislature for its thorough review of the completeness of our environmental impact statement,” Michael Levoff, the company’s senior vice president of

strategy and public affairs, stated in the release. “This over 28,000-page document further demonstrates Sands’ commitment to comprehensively and holistically mitigate the potential impacts of our transformative project at the site of the Nassau Coliseum.”

At Monday’s contentious hearing, both supporters and detractors shared their opinions on the DEIS. Adrienne Esposito, executive director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment, said she had analyzed environmental impact statements for 40 years, and approved of how thorough Sands’ is.

“It was a very comprehensive and a very complete draft EIS,” Esposito said.

Supporters and opponents of the Las Vegas Sands casino project filled the county legislative chamber on Monday for the public hearing on the project’s draft environmental impact statement.

ed water consumption and carbon emissions in a news release that followed the DEIS submission.

Concerns about the local impacts of the casino project on surrounding towns, including Uniondale, Hempstead, Garden City and East Meadow, led the Garden City village board to file a lawsuit against Sands, asking the Nassau County Supreme Court to void the 42-year lease agreement for the Coliseum between the county and Sands because, the suit claims, lawmakers did not closely examine the potential impact a casino could have on the environment.

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Referring to the proposed improvements, however, Esposito suggested that the document be “strengthened” with plans for how to handle water withdrawal and conservation, and solid waste. She also suggested the creation of a community advisory board “that looks at the metrics to see how they’re doing on energy and water and solid waste management.”

Many attendees expressed their support for the statement and for the casino project as a whole. Ryan Stanton, executive director of the Long Island Federation of Labor, shared his appreciation for the DEIS and how Sands is going about the project.

“Long Islanders care about traffic, taxes and economic opportunity,” Stanton said. “When we make investments in infrastructure, it creates economic opportunity for the people behind it, reduces taxes for the people behind them, and when people have a reduced tax burden and money in their pockets, they can make good environmental and economic choices.”

On the other side, the Say No to the Casino Civic Association has been vocal in its longstanding opposition to the project, repeatedly making the argument that it will harm the community and environment in a variety of ways. The group claims in a news release that the extensive infrastructure changes needed for the casino would permanently alter the landscape and exacerbate traffic congestion. Members also expressed concerns about the environmental impact, highlighting the expect-

Hofstra University also took legal action against the county for initially violating the Open Meetings Law and the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA) during the initial approval process for the Nassau Coliseum lease in March 2023. The case is now back in the hands of the Nassau County Supreme Court.

Karen Riordan, a member of the Say No association, said she believed the environmental impact statement “failed to take into account the full regional impact the casino project will have on saltwater intrusion on shore communities.” Riordan referenced a study released in August by the United States Geological Survey that indicates that Long Island’s only freshwater aquifer is in danger of saltwater intrusion, and that the language used in the DEIS to describe this potential problem is “too vague.”

Other association members also spoke at the hearing, including Steve Rolston, a member of the Sierra Club, who said that people’s concerns go beyond the environment.

“There are environmental reasons, plus economic and social reasons, that a casino is considered nothing more than legal fraud,” Rolston said.

The draft environmental impact statement is available for public review on the Legislature’s website, and a public comment period will extend until Jan. 6 at 5 p.m. Submissions can be sent via email to sandscomments@nassaucountyny.gov, or by mail to the Nassau County Clerk of the Legislature, 1550 Franklin Ave., Mineola, NY 11501.

Kelsie Radziski/Herald

STEPPING OUT

Merry eatings

‘Tis the season for a

By Karen Bloom

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

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

Chocolate Mint Squares

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

Dough

• 1/3 cup baking chocolate or unsweetened chocolate

• 1/2 cup (8 tablespoons) butter

• 1 cup sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1/2 cup unbleached all-purpose flour

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

• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract or peppermint oil

Frosting

• 2 cups confectioners’ sugar or glazing sugar

• 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) melted butter

• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract or peppermint oil

• 2 tablespoons milk

Glaze

• 3 tablespoons baking chocolate or unsweetened chocolate

• 1 tablespoon butter

Garnish

• 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

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

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

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

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

‘Holiday Joy’

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

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

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

Dreidel Hanukkah Cookies

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

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2/3 cup sugar

• 1 large egg

• 1 tablespoon light corn syrup

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• Dreidel-shaped cookie cutter

• Piping bag

• Blue frosting

Cookie dough

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to prepare

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

Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies

• 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter

• 1/2 cup butter, softened

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar

• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar

• 1 egg

• 1 tsp. vanilla

• 1-1/2 cups flour

• 1 tsp. baking soda

• 44 candy-coated chocolate pieces

• 88 semi-sweet Chocolate Chips

• 44 pretzels, broken into 1-inch pieces

Heat oven to 350° F.

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

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

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

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

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

Yellow Brick Joel

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

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

Chocolate Mint Squares Dreidel Hanukkah Cookies Peanut Butter Reindeer Cookies

THE Your Neighborhood

‘Cold Beer on a Friday Night’

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

Countdown to 12

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

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

Bingo at Temple B’nai Torah

Temple B’nai Torah hosts a fun-filled bingo session, every Wednesday, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m., and every Thursday, 7:15 -10 p.m. Prizes, progressive games and refreshments available. 2900 Jerusalem Ave., in Wantagh. For more information, call (516) 2212370.

Bird walk

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

Home for the Holidays Adoption

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

Let’s Skate

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

Kids can stretch, twirl and glide. As visitors step off the “ice” they can jump into winter dramatic play in Snowflake Village. Become a baker in the holiday sweet shop, step inside a giant snowman and serve up some hot cocoa, take a turn in the rink “ticket booth” and “warm up” around a rink side “fire pit.” Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM. org.

Toy Drive

Help spread holiday cheer by participating in Wantagh Public Library’s toy drive, through Friday, Dec. 20. Donations of new toys will benefit the John Theissen Children’s Foundation, bringing joy to children in need this holiday season. 3285 Park Ave, Wantagh.

Jan. 6

Gardening through the seasons

Instructor Lee Miller leads a discussion on gardening through the seasons at Wantagh Public Library, Monday, Jan. 6, 1 p.m.

Registration for cardholders is going now while registration for out of district cardholders starts on Dec. 23. For more information, visit wantaghlibrary.org. 3285 Park Ave.

Game time

Enjoy Mah Jongg and Canasta every Thursday from noon - 4 p.m. at Congregation Beth Tikvah. $5 contribution, no outside food, as snacks and drinks will be supplied. Bring your games and cards, lessons available. 3710 Woodbine Ave., Wantagh. For more info, email mahjonggCBT@yahoo. com or call (516) 785-2445.

Having an event?

Holiday concert

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

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

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

On exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art ‘s latest exhibition

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

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

Family theater

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

19,

Annual tree lighting brings holiday fun

The Seaford Fire Department held its 51st annual Christmas tree lighting on Dec. 7 at the fire station on Southard Avenue. The festive event featured a decorated fire truck parade, photos with Santa, and holiday treats including cookies and hot chocolate.

Attendees enjoyed music by the Sea-

ford High School Band & Chorus and a performance by Downstage Dance. Families gathered to celebrate the season as the fire department continued its tradition of bringing holiday cheer to the community.

— Charles Shaw

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU NEWREZ LLC D/B/A SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING, -againstDANIEL GLASNER, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on August 8, 2023, wherein NEWREZ LLC D/B/A SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING is the Plaintiff and DANIEL GLASNER, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on January 7, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 2479 JACKSON AVE, SEAFORD, NY 11783; and the following tax map identification: 65-182-20 & 21.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING, AND BEING AT SEAFORD, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 002753/2015. Peter Kramer, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social

distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 150288 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY IN ITS CAPACITY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR OCWEN LOAN ACQUISITION TRUST 2023-HB1, Plaintiff, vs. PATRICK KYLE LESKO, AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DIRK ANDREW LESKO, AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF BARBARA DOLGOFF; ANY AND ALL KNOWN OR UNKNOWN HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHER PARTIES CLAIMING AN INTEREST BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST THE ESTATE OF BARBARA DOLGOFF, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on September 5, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 9, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 3702 S Somerset Drive, Seaford, NY 11783. 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 63, Block 58 and Lots 95-96. Approximate amount of judgment is $353,894.72 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #614533/2018.

David Paul Weiss, Esq., Referee Greenspoon Marder, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 2200, New York, NY 10105, Attorneys for Plaintiff 150270

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT NASSAU COUNTY LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff against JOSEPH MORALES, et al

Defendant(s)

Attorney for Plaintiff(s) McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840, New York, NY 10170.

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered March 16, 2020, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 21, 2025 at 2:00 PM. Premises known as 2331 Neptune Avenue, Seaford, New York 11783. Sec 65 Block 273 Lot 13. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Seaford, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $598,181.30 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 602732/2018.

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.” For sale information, please contact XOME at www.Xome.com or call (844)400-9633.

Lisa Segal Poczik, Esq., Referee File # 23-14875NY 150553

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. L&L ASSOCIATES HOLDING CORP., Pltf. vs. ROGER DENNIS CHAFFEE, et al, Defts. Index #612456/2022. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered June 12, 2023, I will sell at public auction on the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on January 22, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. prem. k/a Section 52, Block 302 Lot 743. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Foreclosure auction will be held “rain or shine.” If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the sale. RICHARD L. FARLEY, Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Drive, Great Neck, NY. #102004 150542

Steve Sachs/Herald photos

The Seaford High School Band and Chorus performed at the Seaford Fire Department’s annual Christmas tree lighting on Dec. 7.

Members of the Downstage Mini Company performed on stage at the tree lighting event.

Santa arrived on his sleigh to ask children what they wanted for Christmas.

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

Amityville UFSD Food Service Workers

PT/FT

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

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

Amityville UFSD

Substitute/Permanent Substitute Teachers Elementary & Secondary Level

Qualifications: NYS Certification Salary: $150 per day

Application: Interested candidates please apply online at www.olasjobs.org/longisland

Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE Full Time/Part Time Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $16 per hour to $23 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time

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

EDITOR/REPORTER

Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com

EMAIL MARKETING SPECIALIST

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

RESPONSIBILITIES:

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

REQUIREMENTS:

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

POSITION DETAILS:

Flexible: Part-time or Full-time.

Salary range: $16,640 to $70,000, depending on experience and role.

Join our dynamic team and help us connect with our audience in meaningful ways! Apply today by sending your resume and a brief cover letter to lberger@liherald.com

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16 per hour to $20 per hour.

Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT Inside Sales

Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle

A Dream Home

Making an old home newer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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

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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

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

Miscellaneous

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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

Tree Services

FRANCISCO'S TREE SERVICE AND LANDSCAPING: Tree Removal, Stumps, Fertilization, Planting, Land Clearing, Topping. Free Estimates. Lic# H206773000. Office 516-546-4971, Cell 516-852-5415

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

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Legal Services

INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT? Don't Ac-

cept 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

AUTOMOBILE &

Call LUKE 516-VAN-CARS. 516-297-2277

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opinions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

At least Governor Hochul got the message

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HERALD

iSuffolk C.C. is shortchanging journalism

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

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

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

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

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

letters

Those excessive red-light-camera fines

To the Editor:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

journalism major.

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

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

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

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

We need the Department of Education

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FRED GEFEN Woodmere

More local memories of Jimmy Breslin

To the Editor:

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

SANDY BERNSTEIN East Meadow

The Sands proposal: ‘right location, wrong project’

To the Editor:

Las Vegas Sands’ proposal for an

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Framework by Tim Baker

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

ANTHONY BRANCATO East Meadow

JorDan VaLLone