________ Franklin square/elmont _______
HERALD Holidays at the Plattduetsche
ledecky talks olympic journey
Students learn about photography
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Vol. 27 No. 50
DECEMBER 11 - 17, 2025
$1.00
Boxer reflects on success after setbacks out football player for the nowdefunct United States Football League Oklahoma Outlaws, To the untrained eye, boxer while his uncle, Jerry, boxed Tyrone “The Jackpot” James and was a U.S. Olympic Alternate for the 1988 Summer Olymwon his fight in twelve rounds. But to those who know him, pic Games in Seoul, South they know that his most recent Korea. With athletes in his famtriumph in the boxing ring ily, dedication runs in his blood. “He’s incredibly wasn’t just the dedicated to his product of twelve craft,” said John rounds- but instead, Wi l l i a m , Ja m e s ’ the journey of vicstrength and conditories, setbacks, tioning coach. “I and injuries that have never met an has fueled an eventathlete so energetic ful career. and enthusiastic Starting out at ab o u t h i s wo rk , age 10, the Elmont together with the native boxed his dedication he puts entire life. In the in- especially comamateur ranks, ing back from his James racked up AuREliANo SoSA injury.” accolades, becomTyrone James’ Despite having i n g a f iv e - t i m e boxing coach ten knockouts and Junior Olympic and an undefeated Nebraska Gold record to his name, Glove champion. “When he was younger, the James has gone through heartfirst time I saw him fight, I was break — most recently sufferso amazed,” said Aureliano ing a bicep injury that sidelined Sosa, James’ Brooklyn-based him for three years. “I’ve gone through a few boxing coach. “I knew he was injuries, at first tearing my going to be great.” James’ athletic success UCL (ulnar collateral ligacomes in part from his upbring- ment),” James said. “Most ing in a family of champions. recently, at work, I realized that His father, Darryl, was a standContinued on page 8
By SEAN KENNEDY
Correspondent
Alice Moreno/Herald photos
Rockin’ around the Elmont Christmas tree The Elmont community rang in the holiday season on Dec. 4, celebrating the lighting of a Christmas tree and menorah at Veterans Plaza. Neighbors packed in for a chilly evening, filled with light, music and local traditions. Above, dancers from Tip Tap Toe performed routines to a variety of Christmas tunes. Right, Santa Claus made a surprise appearance, officially kicking off the holidays. Story, more photos, Page 10.
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he first time I saw him fight, I was so amazed. I knew he was going to be great.