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Vol. 29 No. 16
APRIl 16 - 22, 2026
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There’s something special about Bellmore — and if you live here, you already know it doesn’t take long to feel it. Looking for a place to enjoy the outdoors? Spend an afternoon at Newbridge Road Park & Pool or take in the quiet along the local canals and neighborhood green spaces that make this South Shore community so inviting. When the weather warms up, there’s always something happening nearby — from summer concerts and school events to the Bellmore Family Street Festival, a longtime tradition that brings neighbors together right in the heart of town. And when it comes to schools, Bellmore continues to stand out. From strong programs in North Bellmore, Bellmore and the BellmoreMerrick Central High School District to students who excel in academics, athletics, and the arts, education remains a point of pride across the community. The Bellmore Herald is your hometown newspaper. We know this community because we live it, day in and day out — the people, the places, and the stories BELLMORE HERALD
By HERNESTo GAlDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com
Joseph Patrick Maroney, an 18-year-old senior at Wellington C. Mepham High School, died April 6, 2026, after a courageous battle with a secondary cancer. He was the oldest of 10 siblings and a lifelong resident of North Bellmore. Born July 17, 2007, Maroney was first diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia at age 6 in November 2013. He underwent a bone marrow transplant and entered remission, remaining cancer-free for more than a decade. In January 2025, Maroney was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive sarcoma known as malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor.
The cancer primarily affected his abdomen and required multiple surgeries, with complications continuing throughout his treatment. Despite his illness, Maroney was remembered as consistently positive, selfless and deeply devoted to his family. “He was amazing. He was always very happy, very easygoing. He never complained about any of it,” his mother, Gemma Maroney, said. Gemma Maroney said her son’s identity was rooted in his role as an older brother in a large family. “He was the oldest of my 10 children,” she said. “He was always very helpful at home, just an amazing big brother and friend to Continued on page 5
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Joseph Maroney, Mepham senior, remembered for courage, kindness
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Courtesy Gemma Maroney
Joseph Maroney, an 18-year-old Mepham High School senior, was an avid lacrosse player. He is remembered for his leadership, kindness and steady presence both on and off the field.
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that matter most to you. We’re here for the milestones and the everyday moments in between. This week’s Bellmore Herald is being delivered to homes throughout the area and includes our annual community guide — a go-to resource highlighting local businesses, organizations, schools, and events that help define life here. If you’re not yet a subscriber, we hope this issue shows you what local journalism is all about. Each week, in print and online, we bring you the news you won’t find anywhere else — stories rooted right here Brunch in Bellmore in your neighborBellmore: hood. Hidden gems Best of: To support local reporting in Bellmore, subscribe today at LIHerald.com/ subscribe or call (516) 569-4000, ext. 7. You can also make a onetime or recurring contribution at LIHerald.com/donate. If you’re already a subscriber, thank you for reading and supporting local journalism. And if you’re new here — welcome. We’re glad you’ve joined us.
2026-2027
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Hernesto Galdamez, Editor