Massapequa Herald 01_21_2026

Massapequa

Heuermann

By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com

Accused Gilgo Beach killer Rex Heuermann has maintained his innocence since his arrest in July 2023 — and now, his defense team is asking a judge to toss out one of the murder charges he faces.

Heuermann, 62, originally from Mass-

apequa Park, appeared before state Supreme Court Justice Timothy Mazzei in [Riverhead] on Jan. 13, as his attorneys filed a 178-page omnibus motion seeking multiple forms of legal relief. Among them: dismissal of a second-degree murder charge in the 1993 death of Sandra Costilla and inspection of grand jury minutes to determine whether

Amazon warehouse plan signals new chapter for Sunrise Mall

By MIKE POLANSKY

Senior Correspondent

After more than 50 years as a retail anchor for the South Shore, the Sunrise Mall in East Massapequa may soon be heading into a major transformation.

A site plan under review by the Town of Oyster Bay’s Planning and Development Department outlines a proposal to demolish a portion of the mall and construct a 150,348-square-foot Amazon warehouse and delivery facility. The

By MIKE POLANSKY Senior Correspondent

At its Jan. 12 meeting, the Oyster Bay Town Board adopted formal policies and procedures governing the allocation of permits and the safe use of town athletic fields and facilities.

The policy states that “the purpose of recreational sports programs is to encourage and develop a love for sports, and to provide residents of all ages the opportunity to participate in a safe and positive environment.”

Under the guidelines, priority for field and facility use is given to town programs, followed by school district programs, resident-based youth sports groups, resident-based adult sports groups, nonprofit organizations and, lastly, forprofit groups.

The policies also outline procedures for obtaining permits and mandate safety rules for organizations granted access to town facilities.

Joseph Pinto, the town’s parks commissioner, said the action formalized policies that had already been informally in place.

“With the increased use of town park facilities over recent years, this was a good time to formalize all protocols under one written set of policies and procedures,” Pinto said.

ments, particularly the conversion of many natural grass fields to artificial turf.

Chris Brooks, a Massapequa International Little League official, said he did not anticipate any issues with the changes.

“The Town of Oyster Bay has always been extremely responsive and fair when it comes to the needs of the Massapequa International Little League,” he said. “I would suspect that all youth athletic organizations who obtain permits to use Town facilities would feel the same.”

Greg Dietrich, president of the Massapequa Youth Football program, agreed.

“I don’t think that the new policy impacts the Mustangs or other local nonprofits too project would also include a vehicle fleet service building.

The proposed Amazon site would cover 26.7 acres of the mall property, which sits just east of Route 110. A source in the town said the plan is in the review process and that no construction is expected before 2027, as the plan requires a full environmental review, building plan evaluation, public hearings and input from local stakehold-

He noted that increased field usage is largely the result of park upgrades and improve-

T2T delivers mortgage-free homes to two Massapequa families

Season of Hope program recognizes NYPD’s William Meurer and Adam Frasse

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation closed its seventh annual Season of Hope by delivering five mortgage-free homes to families across New York, including two in Massapequa.

Among those honored were NYPD Police Officer William Meurer and NYPD Detective 2nd Grade Adam Avery Frasse, whose families received mortgage-free homes through the foundation’s program supporting fallen and catastrophically injured first responders.

“Tunnel to Towers is honoring remarkable first responder,” said Frank Siller, the foundation’s CEO and chairman. “Their service on our streets, in our neighborhoods, and at Ground Zero represents the very best of us. Their families have paid a tremendous price, and it is our duty and privilege to give them the stability and peace of a mortgage-free home.”

Meurer, a Brooklyn native and the son of an FDNY firefighter, joined the NYPD in 1984. He suffered severe leg injuries during a high-speed pursuit, and complications from surgery later required doctors to rebreak his leg. He was subsequently diagnosed with progressive multiple sclerosis.

Tunnel to Towers paid off the Meurer family’s mortgage and completed extensive home modifications to improve accessibility, including construction of a large master suite, an ADA-accessible bathroom, a new egress door and a paved walkway from the bedroom to the driveway. The foundation also installed a wholehouse generator and smart-home technology allowing lights, temperature, sound and security systems to be controlled remotely.

“Thanks to Tunnel to Towers, my dad will gain a level of independence that hasn’t been possible for a long time,” said his daughter, Christine. “For my dad, this means more dignity and comfort, and having our mortgage paid in full brings peace, hope, and the ability to care for him without constant financial fear.”

Detective Frasse followed in the footsteps of his father, a Navy veteran and Nassau County police sergeant. He joined the New York City Transit Police in 1987 and

later became a member of the NYPD, earning multiple commendations and induction into the NYPD Honor League.

While conducting surveillance during a human trafficking investigation in 2009, Frasse suffered a medical emergency that left him in a coma for more than four years. He died in 2014, leaving behind his wife, Kara, and their sons, Scott and Jay. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation fulfilled the mortgage on the family’s Massapequa home.

“I cannot thank the Tunnel to Towers Foundation enough…I am truly speechless at this incredibly generous gesture,” Kara Frasse said. “It feels incredible to have a mortgage-free home in time for the holidays.”

The Meurer family gathers in front of their home as the. Tunnel to Towers Foundation announced it is paying off the mortgage.

About the Tunnel to Towers Foundation

Adam Frasse, NYPD, with his wife and two children. He died in 2014.

Founded in the wake of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation carries out its mission to “do good” by providing mortgage-free homes to Gold Star and fallen first responder families with young children and by building specially adapted smart homes for catastrophically injured veterans and first responders. The foundation

is also committed to eradicating veteran homelessness and ensuring the nation never forgets Sept. 11, 2001. Donations can be made for $11 a month, with additional opportunities through vehicle and land donations.

More information about the Tunnel to Towers Foundation is available at T2T.org.

Freeport man arrested after traffic stop in Massapequa Park

Police say officers injured during struggle at precinct

A Freeport man was arrested Monday evening following a traffic stop in Massapequa Park that police said escalated into a violent struggle at a Nassau County precinct.

According to Nassau County police, officers from the Seventh Precinct observed Samuel Dash, 58, driving a 2007 GMC Yukon westbound on Sunrise Highway at about 6:30 p.m. with a cracked side-view mirror. Officers initiated a traffic stop, during which they allegedly discovered a counterfeit New York State inspection sticker on the vehicle, police said.

evaluation, police said. Following an investigation, police said Dash was found to be in possession of a substance believed to be crack cocaine and several pills believed to be oxycodone.

Dash was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Seventh Precinct, where police said he became violent and combative, leading to a struggle. Two officers sustained injuries and were taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation and treatment. Dash was also transported to a local hospital for

Dash, of 78 Meister Blvd., was charged with two counts of second-degree assault, three counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, fourth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, second-degree criminal possession of a forged instrument, and multiple vehicle and traffic law violations, police said. He is scheduled to be arraigned today, Tuesday, Jan. 13, at First District Court, 99 Main St. in Hempstead.

This story was originally posted online and made available to all readers at massapequapost.com

Self Help/Crisis Hotlines

Residential Program: Beacon House

Short-term, long-term and transitional housing is provided throughout Long Island in 58 group homes, emergency shelters, and select single-family residences. Those eligible include homeless veterans, veterans with families, veterans and nonveterans with substance abuse and mental health issues, women in need of supportive housing, and those living with HIV/AIDS. Every veteran resident has access to intensive case management, transportation and daily living essentials. For assistance, call 631 665-1571.

Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation

•Maryhaven Center of Hope-New Hope 24hr. substance abuse crisis center: 516-5467070; maryhaven.chsli.org/new-hope

•N.C. Drug & Alcohol Hotline: 516-227-8255

•LI Crisis Center: 516-679-1111

•24/7 Behavioral health helpline: 516-2278255, namiqn.org/crisis-info

•AA Meetings Nassau County: For More Information on meetings and times call 866-504-6974 or go to findrecovery.com/aa_ meetings/ny/nassau-county/ Domestic Violence

N.C. Coalition Against Domestic Violence Crisis services for victims of domestic violence, rape and sexual assault; group/individual counseling for adults and children; bilingual court advocacy; legal consultation and representation; safe emergency housing; elder abuse services; referrals and systems advocacy; community education. Eligibility criteria: Nassau County residents or non-residents seeking safe housing in Nassau. Will serve undocumented immigrants. Payments accepted free or on sliding scale. Address is 250 Fulton Avenue, Mezzanine West, Hempstead. Call 516-572-0700; 24-hour hotline is 516 542-0404.

Teamwork’s the key to Massapequa’s HS research projects

Massapequa High School recently had their first major presentations in their Advanced Placement Seminar courses.

Approximately 115 students, working in groups of four or five, showcased the findings on their research topics.

AP Seminar is the first part of the AP Capstone program, with most students taking it as their 10th grade English class. Each class is co-taught by an English teacher and a social studies teacher. The year begins with instruction on research skills, during which students are introduced to databases and learn how to identify credible sources. Following a practice presentation with feedback from their teachers, students move on to the team multimedia presentation.

Each group selects a topic, and every member of the team looks at it through a different lens. English teacher Christine Starr said that, for example, students could look at a topic from a cultural, political, social and scientific perspective. She also noted that students are expected to present potential solutions for the problems they explore.

The team of Casey Goldthwaite, Brooke McGovern, Charlotte Pachucki, Valeria Suarez and Shannon Walsh did research on PFAs, or forever chemicals, found in clothing. Their perspectives included the effects of chemicals on the environment and on consumers, as well as laws governing PFAs. After completing research on their individual components, the five sophomores came together to create a cohesive report and digital presentation.

“One of the most important skills for students to learn in high school is listening to each other and respecting different points of view,” said Starr. Participants in AP Seminar create their presentations using existing research. Their portfolio includes a paper and slideshow, and oral presentations are recorded and uploaded for the College Board, which administers the AP program.

In the second half of the year, students will work on an individual research project based on a stimulus packet. This prepares them for the self-guided projects that they complete in the second part of Capstone, AP Research, in which students select topics based on personal interest and seek to fill in knowledge gaps.

Above: Massapequa High School sophomores, from left, Brooke McGovern, Casey Goldthwaite, Valeria Suarez, Shannon Walsh and Charlotte Pachucki practiced their team multimedia presentation for Advanced Placement Seminar.

Left: AP Seminar students, from left, Ava Comiskey, Sharlotte Kelter, John Moran, Jack Findling and Snowe Ma met to finalize their project, which would be presented to teachers and recorded for the College Board.

Fire District Secretary

The Massapequa Fire District is excited to announce an opportunity to become part of our team. We are looking for a dynamic individual to help lead the administration of all office tasks within the fire district. Job responsibilities include:

EMILY McGOWAN SEAFORD Junior BASKETBALL

PICKING UP WHERE she left off last winter when she earned All-County honors as well as Conference Player of the Year honors after leading the Vikings to 15 wins, McGowan ranks among Nassau’s top 20 scorers at 15.8 points per game as Seaford sits in the driver’s seat in Conference 7 with a 6-0 record (8-4 overall.) She scored in double figures in nine of the first dozen games as well as served as a key figure on the defensive end.

games to watch

Thursday, Jan. 22

Girls Basketball: Plainedge at Seaford 5 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Carey at V.S. North 5 p.m.

Boys Basketball: C.S. Harbor at Malverne 7:00 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 23

Girls Basketball: Baldwin at Farmingdale 5 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Uniondale at Hempstead 5 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Massapequa at Syosset 5 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Wantagh at V.S. North 5 p.m.

Girls Basketball: North Shore at Malverne 6 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Jericho at Calhoun 6:45 p.m.

Girls Basketball: MacArthur at Long Beach 6:45 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Port Wash at E.Meadow 6:45 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Plainview at Freeport 6:45 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Oceanside at Massapequa 6:45 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 24

Girls Basketball: West Hemp at East Rock 10 a.m.

Boys Basketball: Malverne at North Shore 11:45 a.m.

Girls Basketball: Clarke at Sewanhaka 11:45 a.m.

Girls Basketball: Elmont at South Side 11:45 a.m.

Girls Basketball: Plainedge at V.S. South 11:45 a.m.

Boys Basketball: East Rock at West Hemp 11:45 a.m.

Boys Basketball: Herricks at Oceanside 1 p.m.

Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”

High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a winter sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.

HERALD SPORTS

Balanced offense sparks Farmingdale

By NICK MONGIOVI sports@liherald.com

No elite scorer, no problem.

Farmingdale boys basketball’s offense has taken a balanced-attack approach through its first 13 games and the Dalers are 10-3 overall, including 5-2 in Conference AAA-1.

Farmingdale sits in second place in the league, one game behind Plainview-JFK and tied with Hempstead and Uniondale.

“This is probably the first time in my 24 years of coaching that we have such a balance and parity on a team that’s willing to give up good shots for great shots and try to get someone else better,” Farmingdale head coach Jim Pastier said. “They might have a good shot that in the past people take, but now all of a sudden they’re moving the ball around to get someone else a touch to create an easier basket or a better look for the team.”

Six players average more than five points per game: Seniors Dylan Coleman (10.3), Brendan LoFaro (9.5), Ben Mear (8.1), Mateo Morales (7.8), Jace Ebanks (5.3), and junior Amari Powell (6.8.)

In the Dalers’ 49-41 win over Massapequa last Friday night, Morales recorded 15 points after briefly leaving the game with an open wound on his eye and blood covering his face while fighting for a loose ball.

“He’s a complete warrior,” Pastier said. “The crowd went nuts as soon as he came running out. It was like the old Willis Reed at the Garden.”

game,” Pastier said. “To extend games, we talk about how important free throws are. They’re either extending your lead in the game or helping you catch up. Towards the end of the game, they had to foul and we had to get defensive stops and maintain possessions.”

After a 61-50 loss against first-place Plainview-JFK Jan. 10, Farmingdale beat Syosset 59-57 Jan. 13 in overtime. Plainview-JFK led the Dalers 19-5 after the first frame and 29-16 entering the break. That 13-point deficit was nearly erased, as Farmingdale made it 41-39 before the engine ran out of gas in the fourth. Syosset got out to an early 22-8 lead in the first quarter and led 29-23 going into halftime. Back-to-back slow starts with two different outcomes in the end.

“It took them a little while to click in, but once they settled in, those past two games being down what they were down to fight back, it’s a credit to them,” Pastier said. “We talked about it with them and stressed it with them.”

The difference was made against Massapequa, considering the Dalers never ended a quarter trailing. The conference is as tight as it gets, with Massapequa and Syosset sitting just two games out behind Farmingdale and co.

“I think any team can beat anybody in our conference,” Pastier said. “All the games are close. Every game is a new game, a new entity, a new battle, and for 32 minutes, nothing else matters.”

Farmingdale received a surge of three-pointers from Mear, as he knocked down four from behind the arc in the win. In a back-and-forth affair that had the Dalers leading Massapequa 34-30 going into the fourth quarter, free throws and Mear’s threepoint shooting lifted Farmingdale to the victory.

“We went to the free-throw line towards the end of the

The Dalers are back in action this Friday at Hicksville at 5 p.m.

Hochul delivers her fifth State of the State

By ROKSANA AMID ramid@liherald.com

Gov. Kathy Hochul used her 2026 State of the State address Jan. 13 to present an ambitious agenda focused on affordability, public safety and social services — while Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, her likely Republican challenger in this year’s gubernatorial race, sharply criticized the speech and questioned her record in office.

The state of the state of New York is strong, and we’re just getting started.

“The state of the state of New York is strong, and we’re just getting started,” Hochul said in her fifth State of the State, at Albany’s Hart Theater, framing the coming year as one focused on easing the financial strain on families while continuing investments in safety, housing and infrastructure.

GOv. KATHy HOcHul

At the core of Hochul’s address was a renewed push for universal child care, which she described as the most pressing affordability issue facing working families. The governor outlined plans to expand prekindergarten statewide, with the goal of achieving universal pre-K for 4-year-olds by 2028, while piloting yearround, full-day child care for children from birth to age 3.

“This plan will ultimately deliver universal child care for every family in New York, full stop,” Hochul said, drawing sustained applause.

She cited the high cost of care, particularly in New York City, where annual expenses can range from $26,000 to $40,000, calling the burden “almost impossible” for many parents. Hochul said the state would expand subsidies, strengthen its voucher system and improve tax incentives for employers who invest in child care benefits.

Beyond child care, Hochul framed affordability as a broader economic challenge, pointing to proposals aimed at lowering utility and auto insurance costs. She said the state would crack down on staged car accidents and insurance fraud, streamline utility assistance programs and protect consumers from steep rate hikes, while continuing investments in clean energy.

Housing, infrastructure, public safety

Housing and infrastructure were also key pillars of the address. Hochul announced an additional $250 million investment in affordable housing and $100 million for manufactured housing, while reiterating her administration’s commitment to cutting red tape that she said has slowed development for decades.

Under her Let Them Build initiative, Hochul said the state would modernize environmental review processes to accelerate housing, clean energy and

Gov. Kathy Hochul, shown here at the Long Island Association State of the Region breakfast earlier this month, delivered her State of the State address on Jan. 13.

infrastructure projects.

“We’re changing the culture around building, brick by brick,” she said, noting that more than 400 communities have signed on as “pro-housing” municipalities eligible for state funding.

Public safety was another major focus. Hochul pointed to more than $3 billion in state investments in police and public safety over the past four years and said crime, including shootings, homicides and subway crime, has declined statewide.

“We’ll never be satisfied,” Hochul said, outlining plans to expand crime analysis centers, increase police patrols in subway stations, install platform barriers at 85 additional stations and grow mental health response teams that pair law enforcement with clinical professionals.

On gun violence, Hochul proposed a first-in-the-nation law requiring 3D printers sold in New York to include software that blocks the production of firearms, targeting so-called “ghost guns.” She also called for restrictions on handguns that can be converted into automatic weapons.

“Not here. Not in New York,” she said. “That’s how we save lives and fight crime.”

Immigration, civil rights, federal tensions

Hochul also used her address to draw a sharp contrast with President Trump and federal immigration enforcement

Roksana Amid/Herald Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman spoke after Hochul’s address, criticizing her agenda and calling for tax credits for working families with children.

child care affordability and instead proposed tax credits for working parents, though he did not offer specific details. He said those credits would be worth more than those proposed by Hochul. He also criticized Hochul’s handling of the migrant crisis, pointing to what he described as nearly $5 billion in state spending to manage the influx of asylum seekers, largely centered in New York City.

policies. She said New York would not allow the use of state resources to assist in federal immigration raids involving people who have not committed serious crimes, and would bar U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents from entering schools, day cares, hospitals and houses of worship without a judicial warrant.

“We will not bow to a wannabe king,” Hochul said, adding that congestion pricing in New York City “is staying on.”

The governor also proposed legislation that would allow New Yorkers to sue federal officers in state court for alleged violations of their constitutional rights, framing the measure as a safeguard against abuses of power.

Blakeman’s rebuttal sharpens political contrast

An hour after Hochul’s address, Blakeman delivered a blistering rebuttal from Nassau GOP headquarters in Westbury, calling the governor’s remarks “the most unbelievable speech” he had ever heard.

“There was nothing in that speech that was believable,” Blakeman said. “I thought I was watching a ‘Saturday Night Live’ skit.”

He accused Hochul of failing to deliver results during her four years in office, particularly on child care. While Hochul outlined expanded subsidies and universal pre-K, Blakeman said the governor had “done nothing” to address

“She’s helping people who have been in the state for 15 minutes,” Blakeman said, arguing that Hochul’s policies have contributed to population and business losses.

The two leaders also diverge sharply on immigration enforcement. Blakeman has touted Nassau County’s cooperation with ICE, while Hochul is proposing legislation allowing New Yorkers to sue federal officers who violate their civil rights.

Shortly after his swearing-in this week, Blakeman signed Nassau County’s Religious Safety Act into law, banning protests within 35 feet of houses of worship around service times. Hochul, meanwhile, proposed a statewide ban on protests within 25 feet of religious property lines, saying worshippers should be able to pray “without fear or harassment.”

As Blakeman positions himself for a statewide run, political analysts note the challenge ahead. Long Island accounts for nearly one-fifth of New York’s electorate, with about 2.1 million active voters, but Blakeman will need to expand his appeal beyond his local base to attract swing voters upstate.

Hochul’s full agenda — more than 200 proposals spanning housing, energy policy, artificial intelligence regulation, youth mental health and consumer protections — will be detailed further when she releases her executive budget next week, setting the stage for a high-stakes gubernatorial race.

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Founder & Owner, Broker Specialist

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LEGACY IN REAL ESTATE

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B2K Development

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT

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Chief Executive Officer B2K Development

RISING STAR

Ashley Infantino Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

James La Dolce

President, Branch Manager

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CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY

Jonathan M. Stern

Chief Growth Officer

Ackman Ziff Real Estate Group

COMMERCIAL BROKERAGE

Michael Tucker

Associate Broker

DGNY Commercial

COMMUNITY IMPACT LEADERSHIP

Gary Broxmeyer

President Fairfield Properties

CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT

Joel Lipsky

Chief Executive Officer Lipsky Construction

INDUSTRY IMPACT AND LEADERSHIP

Jeff Schwartzberg, MBA

Managing Principal Premier Commercial Real Estate, LLC

LEGAL

Keith P. Brown

Partner Certilman Balin Adler & Hyman LLP

REAL ESTATE ATTORNEY

Robert M. Connelly

Attorney Romer Debbas, LLP

STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP EXCELLENCE

Dave Spiegel

Senior Managing Director

Bluejay Management

TOP INDUSTRIAL AND INVESTMENT SALES AND LEASING COUNSELOR OF THE YEAR

Tom Attivissimo

CEO & Principal

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HAMPTONS LEADERSHIP

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INNOVATION IN CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN

Gina Farese

Chief Executive Officer

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ENGINEERING

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EXCELLENCE IN REAL ESTATE LAW

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Managing Partner

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INTERIOR DESIGN

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NEXT GEN BROKERAGE

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Associate Broker

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Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

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Book your pavilion at State Parks for 2026

State park reservations open Feb. 1 for summer season

Reservations for picnic pavilions at Long Island state parks for the 2026 season will open at 9 a.m. on Sunday, Feb. 1, the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation announced.

[Insert town name] residents can reserve pavilions at nearby state parks through the New York State Parks Reserve America website or by calling 1-800-456-2267. In-person reservations will not be accepted.

Several Long Island parks offer reservable picnic pavilions, with site-specific restrictions:

•Belmont Lake State Park (North Babylon): No sound systems, DJs or amplified sound. Generators and buses are not permitted on holidays from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

•Bethpage State Park (Farmingdale): No electricity available at picnic pavilions.

•Heckscher State Park (East Islip): No additional restrictions listed.

•Hempstead Lake State Park (West Hempstead): Generators are not permitted.

•Orient Beach State Park (Orient): Buses prohibited on weekends.

•Sunken Meadow State Park (Kings Park): In Field No. 4, pony rides, inflatables and sound systems — including DJs and amplified sound — are not permitted.

•Valley Stream State Park (Valley Stream): No sound systems, DJs or amplified sound. Buses are not allowed on weekends or holidays from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

After securing a reservation, permit holders may apply for add-on permits for elements such as sound systems, DJs, pony rides, inflatables, food trucks, alcohol or buses. Applications are available through the 2026 Group Picnic Application and must be submitted at least 14 days before the reservation date.

For more information, call the Regional Permit Office at (631) 321-3770.

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 state parks, historic sites, trails, golf courses and more, welcoming over 88 million visitors annually.

To learn more, visit parks.ny.gov or download the free NY State Parks Explorer app. You can also call (518) 4740456.

Environmental programs at Sunken Meadow now through March

Sunken Meadow State Park will offer a series of winter environmental programs from January through March 2026, park officials said.

Programs include nature walks, wildlife programs, hikes and children’s activities. Featured events include a Fossil Finds family program on Jan. 10, a Winter Wildlife Safari on Jan. 18, a Winter Sunset Stroll on Feb. 7, a High Ground Hike on Feb. 8, a Winter Scavenger Hunt on Feb. 22, and a Welcome to Spring Hike on March 21. Weekly “Tiny Tots: Nature Discoveries” programs for children ages 3 to 5 will be held Thursdays.

Most programs cost $4 per adult and $4 per child, with children under 3 admitted free. A weekend parking fee begins April 1. Advance reservations are required unless otherwise noted.

Reservations can be made through Eventbrite by searching “#NatureEdventure.”

For more information visit parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer app or call 518. 474-0456.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

THURSDAY, JANUARY 22

•Town of Oyster Bay Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting: 7 p.m., Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay. For more information, call (516) 624-6333.

•Massapequa School District Board of Education Meeting: 8 p.m., Board Room, 4925 Merrick Rd., Massapequa. For more information, call (516) 3085000.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 23

•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631)-789-2569.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 25

•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631) 789-2569.

MONDAY, JANUARY 26

•Massapequa Fire District Regular Monthly Meeting: 7:30 p.m., District Administration Building, 1 Brooklyn Ave., Massapequa. For more informa -

tion, call (516) 798-9849.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 27

•Town of Oyster Bay Town Board Meeting: 10 a.m., Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay. For more information, please call (516) 624-6380.

•Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m., Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9592, 55 Hickory Lane, Levittown. Free weekly, in-person meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631) 332-0552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808. All calls are confidential.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28

• Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m. Free weekly, virtual meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631) 332-0552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808. All calls are confidential.

Calendar items are printed for non-profit organizations, as space permits, or when an event, service or information is being sponsored by a profit-making organization without charge to readers. Submit items to us at Richner Communications, attn: Post Editor, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530; or email: dconsola@liherald.com at least two - three weeks prior to the publication date in which the item must appear. Sorry, but open-ended requests without the specific dates of the events are not acceptable. While we make every attempt to accommodate each request, we cannot guarantee publication of any items. For more information, call 516-569-4000.

Meet some local scholars...

The following students were recently recognized for academic achievements and graduation at their respective colleges:

•Samantha Veltry of Massapequa and a graduate of Massapequa High School received a master’s degree in psychology from Southern New Hampshire University. Her parents are Susan and Frank Veltry.

•The following students recently received their degrees from York College of Pennsylvania: Brianna Horne of Massapequa, received a Bachelor of Science while majoring in Secondary Education-Mathematics and Alexis Shaw of Massapequa received a Bachelor of Science while majoring in Early Elementary Education.

•Anthony Ciaravino of Farmingdale was recently named to the Dean’s List at Lebanon Valley College. Ciaravino is pursuing a bachelor of science in actuarial science and data science and

mathematics.

•Christopher Merlini of Massapequa Park was recently named to the President’s List at SUNY Canton. Merlini is an Information Technology major.

•The following SUNY Canton students recently received Part-Time Honors: Kathleen Conaty of Massapequa, Applied Psychology major and Dahlia Morris of Massapequa, an Early Childhood major.

• The following students were recently named to the Dean’s List at the University of Connecticut: Marisa Karlsen of Farmingdale; Clayton Bany of Massapequa; Lilliana Gluszak of Massapequa; Isabella Lima of Massapequa; Aidan Palmer of Massapequa; Brianna Rodriguez of Massapequa; Eliza Levitt of Massapequa Park; Erin Tumminello of Massapequa Park; and Kathleen Tumminello of Massapequa Park.

Blakeman is sworn in to his second term

By MOHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman was sworn in to a second term at the county’s 2026 inauguration ceremony at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City last week, and afterward signed new safety legislation.

The Jan. 12 ceremony was attended by hundreds, including elected officials, law enforcement representatives and clergy members.

Elaine Phillips and Maureen O’Connell were also sworn in to new terms as county comptroller and county clerk, respectively.

Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino led the ceremony, introducing a number of esteemed speakers, stakeholders and performers including Father Gerard Gordon, senior chaplain of the Nassau County Police Department, as well as Mary Millben, an internationally known performer who sang the national anthem.

Religious leaders representing both Judaism and Christianity took part in the ceremony, with Rabbi Mordechai Kamenetzky, of Yeshiva of South Shore, delivering the invocation and Gordon offering the benediction.

The ceremony opened with a presentation of colors by members of the Nassau County Police Department, the

County Sheriff’s Department, the Nassau County Fire Marshal’s Office and the Emerald Society Pipes and Drums, alongside Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 82.

Nassau County Chief Fire Marshal Michael Uttaro led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a moment of silence

honoring those who have served in public service and the armed forces.

Musical selections were also provided by international vocalist Christopher Macchio, who sang “Hallelujah,” by Leonard Cohen.

“I would like to thank Hashem — God — for giving me the strength to serve as

your county executive,” Blakeman said in his remarks after his swearing in, which was conducted by his wife, Segal Blakeman, a Nassau County Family Court judge. “It’s only through the strength of God that I have the ability to serve, and I recognize that each and every day.”

“[We supported] our law enforcement, hired 600 law professionals, canceled a $150 million tax increase, didn’t raise taxes for four years, and earned seven bond upgrades,” he added, touting the achievements of his first term. “That’s unprecedented.”

Following his swearing in, Blakeman signed a bill previously approved by county legislators meant to add protection for worshippers at religious institutions. The bill prohibits demonstrations from occurring within 10 feet of a person entering or exiting a place of religious worship. It also prevents demonstrations within 35 feet of an entrance to a religious institution in the hour before a scheduled service and the hour after it ends.

“You know how I feel about religious freedom,” Blakeman said. “And the ability for people to be able to worship in their mosque, their church, their synagogue, their temple. And therefore we will protect those institutions, and we will protect people’s rights to worship freely here in the Nassau County.”

East Massapequa site could see demolition, redevelopment by 2027

ers.

The facility could employ between 75 and 100 warehouse workers, with as many as 305 delivery drivers operating from the site. If approved, construction is expected to take approximately 13 months.

Sunrise Mall Properties would retain ownership of an additional 40.4 acres and holds a 99-year lease on another 10.3 acres. There has been no public announcement of future plans for those remaining parcels.

The 1.3 million-square-foot Sunrise Mall first opened on Aug. 30, 1973, with

140 stores, including department store anchors Macy’s, E.J. Korvette, JCPenney and Gertz. It was the first two-level shopping mall on Long Island.

The mall closed temporarily during the Covid-19 shutdown from March to July 2020, and in February 2022, management announced it would not renew remaining tenant leases. Macy’s closed its East Massapequa location in March 2025, leaving Dick’s Sporting Goods as the mall’s only remaining tenant.

The Herald Post will be following this story and giving readers more details as they unfold.

Town Board cites increased use, safety and fairness in new policies

much,” Dietrich said. “In general, I’m in favor of consistency and clarity and would like to see the fields being used to the maximum extent possible for the residents of the community.”

Massapequa Soccer Club President Yuri Fishman said the club has always complied with the Town’s policies, whether informal or not.

He added, however that it welcomes a more formalized structure.

“We schedule every minute that is allotted to our cClub and now other organizations will be required to do so as well,” he said. “While we have always worked with other clubs when there are conflicts, this new effort by the Town will minimize those situations and we thank Mr. Pinto for his efforts in the matter and look forward to many more years of use from the quality fields the Town offers our community.”

Major town parks serving the Massapequa area include John J. Burns Park, a 52-acre facility with multiple soccer, lacrosse, baseball and softball fields; the 10-acre Field of Dreams, which features two lighted multiuse fields; the 42-acre Marjorie Post Community Park, which offers a wide range of recreational facili-

ties; Plainedge Park, with baseball and multipurpose fields; and Ellsworth Allen Town Park in Farmingdale, which includes lighted synthetic fields for soccer, football and lacrosse, along with softball and baseball fields.

“Improving parks facilities across the Town of Oyster Bay has remained a priority for me and my colleagues on the Town Board,” Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino said after the board’s unanimous vote. “The upgrades we have made have enhanced the overall recreational experience for residents of all ages while being provided in the most cost-effective way possible.”

In other business at the Jan. 12 meeting, the board

• Authorized the Department of Community and Youth Services to co-sponsor the 2026 Winter and Spring Distinguished Artists Concert Series at public libraries throughout the town.

•Scheduled performances include Art Lillard and the Blue Heaven Swing Sextet at the Massapequa Public Library on Feb. 21; Women of Soul at the Farmingdale Public Library on March 14; and Gathering Time at the Massapequa Public Library on May 16.

The next Oyster Bay Town Board meeting is Tuesday, Jan. 27, 10 a.m.

Defense files sweeping motion in Gilgo Beach case

unless specific legal standards are met following a pretrial hearing.

the evidence presented was legally sufficient.

“There are some real significant issues that they’re bringing to the court’s attention,” defense attorney Michael Brown said after the hearing.

“Thanks for that,” Mazzei replied, drawing scattered chuckles in the courtroom.

The motion seeks, among other remedies, dismissal of the Costilla charge on the grounds that the evidence was not “legally sufficient to establish the offense charged or any lesser included offense,” according to court filings. Defense attorneys argue the grand jury may have been presented with legally insufficient, circumstantial and highly prejudicial evidence.

“The people’s evidence that links Rex Heuermann to Sandra Costilla’s crime is a single hair on a shirt,” defense attorney Danielle Coysh argued.

Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney said his office would oppose the motion.

“We think we’re on a good footing,” Tierney told reporters, adding that prosecutors will challenge “the vast majority, if not all, motions.”

The filing also seeks suppression of various categories of evidence, including so-called Molineux evidence — which generally bars prosecutors from using a defendant’s prior bad acts to prove guilt,

Defense attorneys also requested disclosure of exculpatory Brady material, evidence favorable to the defendant that prosecutors are constitutionally required to share.

Mazzei set a March 3 deadline for prosecutors to respond and gave the defense two weeks to file a reply. Heuermann is scheduled to return to court March 17.

“Yes, I do,” Heuermann said when asked whether he understood the timeline.

While an exact date has not been set, Mazzei indicated the trial would begin later this year.

“Trial will begin after Labor Day,” he said, “come hell or high water.”

Heuermann is charged in the murders of seven people: Melissa Barthelemy, Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Amber Lynn Costello, Megan Waterman, Jessica Taylor, Sandra Costilla and Valerie Mack. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Attorneys were also asked about the separate case of Andre Dykes, 66, who pleaded not guilty last month in to murdering Tanya Denise Jackson. Parts of Jackson’s dismembered body were found in Hempstead Lake State Park in 1997. She was initially unidentified and known as “Peaches” because of a heartshaped tattoo on her chest. Officials confirmed her identity last April.

“I have no comment,” Tierney said, adding that “there will be no charges

Nominate your favorite local business for the 2026 Long Island Choice Awards

with the baby in Suffolk.”

Additional remains belonging to Jackson and an unidentified child were discovered along Ocean Parkway in Gilgo Beach in 2011. DNA testing later confirmed they were mother and daughter.

Brown said the Dykes case could factor into Heuermann’s defense.

“It’s going to play into the defense,” he said, arguing investigators “insinuated that Mr. Heuermann is responsible for all of this … and now we find out

Free memory screenings offered weekly at Barbara Rabinowitz Resource Center

As the new year begins, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America is encouraging Long Islanders to schedule free memory screenings at its Barbara Rabinowitz Education and Resource Center in Amityville.

Screenings are available by appointment every Wednesday at the center, located at 149 Schlegel Blvd. There are no age or insurance requirements. To schedule, call (631) 223-4000.

Each session lasts 10 to 15 minutes, is conducted one-on-one by a qualified professional, and includes questions to assess memory, language and think-

ing skills. Results are confidential and shared immediately. While not a diagnosis, a screening can help identify if a full medical evaluation is needed.

Memory problems can stem from many treatable conditions, such as vitamin deficiencies, thyroid issues, sleep apnea, or anxiety. Early detection can also improve outcomes for those with dementia-related illnesses, including Alzheimer’s.

Even those without symptoms can benefit from baseline testing, according to AFA. For more information or to make an appointment, call (631) 223-4000.

Small businesses bring life to our communities. They are the restaurants, shops, and services that make each neighborhood unique and keep our local economy strong.

PSEG Long Island is proud to once again sponsor the Long Island Choice Awards, presented by the Herald, honoring the resilience, innovation, and dedication of local businesses across our region.

In 2026, PSEG Long Island’s commitment to helping small businesses grow is stronger than ever. Through our Business First platform, we provide resources and incentives that make a real difference. Programs like Vacant Space Revival help fill empty storefronts, Main Street Revitalization strengthens downtown districts, and Business First Advocates meet directly with owners to connect them to energy savings and business support.

Now it’s your turn to help celebrate the businesses that make Long Island thrive. Nominate your favorite local spots, your family-owned bakery, the boutique you love, or the service provider that always goes the extra mile. Your nomination helps give them the recognition they deserve and shines a light on the people and places that make our community stronger.

When small businesses thrive, we all thrive. Join us in celebrating their impact by submitting your nominations for the 2026 Long Island Choice Awards today.

Thank you,

Sincerely,

Scott Jennings, President & COO PSEG Long Island

STEPPING OUT

Feelings come to life

Inside the world of ‘Inside Out’ at Long Island Children’s Museum

By Abbey Salvemini

Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust, and Fear are in the spotlight. The vibrant world of Disney Pixar’s beloved film springs to life in “Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out,” a traveling, hands-on exhibit developed by the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. Now ensconced at Long Island Children’s Museum, the exhibition invites kids — and adults too — to step inside the film’s emotional landscape and explore how feelings shape the way we think, act, and connect. Running through May 10, it blends play and learning to help young visitors understand the important role emotions, memory and imagination play in our everyday lives.

Designed to spark curiosity and conversation, the exhibit transforms familiar moments from the film into immersive learning experiences. Visitors can step into “headquarters,” create glowing memory spheres and experiment with how emotions interact through physical and digital play.

• Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

• View the LICM events calendar at licm.org for additional information or call (516) 224-5800

• Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City

According to Margo Malter, the museum’s director of exhibits, the opportunity to bring “Emotions at Play” here is especially meaningful since it offers a playful way to interpret the movie’s ideas that resonate with children and families.

“All of the activities are very open-ended and hands-on, which is really what the museum is all about,” says Malter.

Transforming “Inside Out” into a hands-on learning experience required a thoughtful balance between storytelling and play. Rather than focusing on passive observation, it’s designed to invite children to actively engage with emotions. Developed in collaboration with Pixar Animation Studios, the exhibit features iconic set pieces directly inspired by the film.

Everyone will instantly recognize and gravitate toward the immersive recreations of scenes inspired by “Inside Out.” At the Control Panel kids can pull levers and press buttons to explore the intensity of different emotions, while Emotions in Motion welcomes kids to place a memory sphere — just like in the movie — into a large, interactive machine.

Additional experiences deepen the emotional journey. Emotion Mirrors spring to life as guests step in front of them, triggering appearances by familiar “Inside Out” characters. At Range of Emotions, facial expressions are captured and identified on a screen, helping children connect expressions with feelings. A nearby writing station encourages reflection, inviting participants to choose colored paper that represents the emotions they want to express or explore.

From the vibrant color palette to the instantly recognizable environments, the installation captures the spirit of the film while staying true to the museum’s mission.

“For kids this age [2-10], it’s really about naming

adds colorful paper to the Long Term

At the Control Panel, use buttons and levers to explore how emotions guide our reactions.

Everyone works together at a hands-on balance and teamwork challenge. A young visitor tries the Range of Emotions activity, exploring how feelings can look and sound different.

emotions and helping them give words to the feelings they are feeling,” Malter says. “Play is really the language of children and how they learn.”

Always, complementary programming enriches the exhibit experience. Children can create their own “memory orbs” inspired by the film or craft personalized “headquarters hats,” extending the themes of “Inside Out” beyond the gallery. Malter underscores the importance of hands-on creativity, noting the value of giving children the chance to make something tangible — an experience, and a keepsake — they can proudly take home.

At its heart, “Inside Out” delivers a powerful message: every emotion has value and a purpose. The exhibit brings that idea to life by creating a welcoming, judgment-free environment where children can explore feelings openly.

“This [exhibit] gives kids a safe space to have those conversations and for parents to give guidance,” Malter adds.

Ultimately, Malter hopes the exhibit does more than entertain for an afternoon — she envisions it as a catalyst for meaningful conversations that continue long after families leave the museum. By giving children age-appropriate tools to recognize, name and understand their emotions, the experience helps build emotional awareness and empathy at an early stage. Through hands-on activities and familiar characters, complex feelings are made accessible and relatable, encouraging children to express themselves with confidence. The result is an environment where learning feels intuitive, playful and engaging, while quietly reinforcing skills that support communication, resilience and healthy social development.

Building on the momentum of “Emotions at Play,” the museum will soon be rolling out an engaging lineup of family-friendly performances. In February and March, “Pete the Cat” arrives on its stage. Join the groovy blue feline and his pal Jimmy Biddle on an art-filled adventure that travels from New York to Paris, blending music, imagination and plenty of toe-tapping fun. The excitement continues in April and May with the return of “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical.” Based on Mo Willems’ wildly popular books and featuring music by Deborah Wicks La Puma, the high-energy production invites young audiences to follow the mischievous Pigeon in a lively, interactive theatrical experience.

Together, these performances — alongside the gallery exhibits that includie the newest permanent installation “Saltwater Stories” — offer families even more reasons to return. With a dynamic mix of theater, interactive learning and creative play, the museum continues to be a vibrant hub for discovery and family fun throughout 2026.

Ballet Hispánico’s CARMEN.maquia

Ballet Hispánico visits Tilles Center with a captivating performance that demonstrates the vitality and artistry that define the company’s work. The stunning evening-length CARMEN. maquia, offers a look at the repertory that established Ballet Hispánico as a transformative force in American dance. Since her debut in 1875, Carmen, the titular character from Bizet’s opera, has become a timeless cultural icon, inspiring generations of composers, choreographers and writers to attempt to capture her elusive and alluring nature. Highly original and full of explosive movement, this is a bold reimagining of her tragic tale. The physically charged and sensual choreography fuses contemporary dance with nods to the Spanish paso doble and flamenco. Ballet Hispánico was born from a bold vision to transform the world through the power of dance and reimagine how Latin culture is celebrated on the global stage.

Friday, Jan. 23, 8 p.m. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

Art talk

Nassau County Museum of Art welcomes New York–based artist Dee Shapiro for an engaging conversation about her work featured in the “Real, Surreal, and Photoreal” exhibition. Known for her meticulously detailed paintings, Shapiro explores the interplay of geometry, architecture and a powerful sense of place, drawing viewers into scenes that feel both familiar and quietly otherworldly. During her session, Shapiro discusses selections from her City and Landscapes series, revealing how she captures the rhythm, structure and subtle poetry of urban streetscapes and natural environments alike. Her work balances precision with atmosphere, inviting close looking and fresh perspectives on spaces we often take for granted. With what appears to be a strong impetus to constantly re-invent her painterly vocabulary, her work keeps us on our toes with each of her series which she sees overall as evoking an alternate reality with absurd connection. Limited seating, so register in advance.

Sunday, Jan 25, 3 p.m. $20, $15 seniors, $10 students (members free). 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor. Register at nassaumuseum.org or call (516) 484-9337.

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CALENDAR

JAN

Everybody Loves Raymond: Celebrating 30 Years’

“Visit the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame for its latest exhibit. It features the 70-foot-wide set from the show’s recent 30th anniversary TV special on CBS, never before on display. The exhibit (designed by LIMEHOF Creative Director and renowned designer Kevin O’Callaghan) is a completely immersive experience. Visitors can walk into the world of the Barone family and explore their home through original stvudio sets, which include the living room, the kitchen, and other areas of the house. Also see a variety of iconic items, including original clothing, the famous fork and spoon, and the Christmas toaster, among other classic items from the series. Multimedia clips, including behind the scenes and rare out-takes and a range of videos related to the show, will play in LIMEHOF’s surround sound theater.”

• Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook

• Time: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

• Contact: limusichalloffame.org or (631) 689-5888

Movie time

Stop by Massapequa Public Library for a showing of “Roofman” starring Channing Tatum and Kirsten Dunst. The 2025 drama is based on the true story of Jeffrey Manchester), a charming fugitive who escapes prison after robbing several McDonald’s and hides out in a Toys “R” Us. But when he falls for Leigh his double life begins to unravel.

• Where: 40 Harbor Lane, Massapequa Park

• Time: 1-3 p.m. and 6-8 p.m.

• Contact: massapequalibrary.org or (516) 799-0770

‘Anastasia The New Musical’

Molloy Performing Arts Club stages the musical inspired by the films. From Tony winners Terrence McNally, Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, creators of such Broadway classics as Ragtime and Once On This Island, this dazzling show transports its audience from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya enlists the aid of a dashing con man and a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love and family.

• Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre

• Time: 7 p.m.; also Jan. 23, 8 p.m.; Jan 24, 1 and 7 p.m.

• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444

JAN

30

Pete Correale

Farmingdale Library Cinema

Stop by Farmingdale Public Library for a showing of the 2003 historical sports drama“Seabiscuit, ” starring Tobey Maguire and Jeff Bridges. An ungainly looking colt becomes a winning thoroughbred in this Depression-era drama based on the true story of champion racehorse Seabiscuit. Registration is not required.

• Where: 116 Merritts Road, Farmingdale

• Time: 10 a.m.-noon

• Contact: farmingdalelibrary.org or (516) 249-9090

Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group

• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington

• Time: 9 p.m., doors open 8 p.m.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

After opening for Sebastian Maniscalco on his massive “It Ain’t Right” arena tour, Pete Correale is now doing his own. Be prepared for the laughs when he brings his “As I Was Saying” tour to the Paramount stage. The Long Island-born comedian-actor-writer, best known for his conversational, reality-based humor, is one busy guy. He co-hosts co-host of the “Pete and Sebastian Show,” a podcast with comedian Sebastian Maniscalco, that’s of the most popular comedy podcasts on air today, consistently growing in audience eight years after its launch. He’s been a frequent guest on late night TV, including “The Tonight Show,” and has filmed well as filming three of his own one-hour television comedy specials, “Things We Do For Love,” “Let Me Tell Ya” and “For Pete’s Sake.” He has also released two comedy albums and has been a staff writer on several TV shows, most recently “Kevin Can Wait” on CBS as well as “The Crew” on Netflix. His comedy is reflective of his life and the experiences he’s been through. Being married for over 20 years and having a young daughter, Pete’s never at a loss for material. With a conversational delivery and his trademark disarming regular guy attitude, Pete makes you feel like you’re listening to the funniest guy at a party as opposed to just another comedian on a stage.

Town of Babylon Zoning Board meets

The Town of Babylon holds it Zoning Board of Appeals meeting. All are welcome to attend.

• Where: Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst

• Time: 6 p.m.

• Contact: (631) 957-3012

Massapequa BOE meets

The Massapequa Board of Education holds their next meeting. All are welcome to attend.

• Where: Massapequa High School, Board Room, 4925 Merrick Rd., Massapequa

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 308-5000

Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out

Long Island Children’s Museum’s welcomes all to its new exhibit. Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out provides interactive experiences that help visitors learn about the important role emotions, memory and imagination play in our everyday lives. Hands-on and digital experiences focus on the five emotions featured in the film: Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust and Fear. Kids learn to recognize emotions and explore ways that we express

and manage our own emotions. With related activities.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

JAN 23 Thrift Shop

Stop by Simpson United Methodist Church’s Thrift Shop for some unique finds.

• Where: 30 Locust Ave., Amityville

• Time: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

• Contact: (631) 789-2569

St. Mary’s Thrift Shop

Stop by St. Mary’s Thrift Shop to start your new year with found treasures. Choose from collectibles, glassware, clothing and other gently used items.

• Where: St. Mary’s, 175 Broadway, Amityville (enter from rear parking lot)

• Time: 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

• Contact: (631) 464-4899

care practices for several varieties of flowering indoor plants and outdoor flowers for early spring. Watering techniques and fertilizer options will be discussed and there will also be a raffle for 7 plants at the conclusion of the talk. For ages 18 and up. Registration is required.

• Where: 1060 Hicksville Road, N. Massapequa

• Time: 2-3: 15 p.m.

• Contact: plainedgelibrary.org or (516) 735-4133

Massapequa Fire District meets

The Massapequa Fire District will be holding their regular monthly meeting. All are welcome to attend.

• Where: District Administration Building, 1 Brooklyn Ave., Massapequa

• Time: 7:30 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 798-2648

JAN

Oyster Bay Town Board meets

The Town of Oyster Bay will be holding their next board meeting. All are welcome to attend.

• Where: Town Board Hearing Room, Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay

• Time: 10 a.m.

• Contact: (516) 624-6380

JAN 28

This group meets weekly, at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9592, in person with Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. All calls are confidential.

• Where: 55 Hickory Lane, Levittown

• Time: 7: 30-9 p.m.

• Contact: Steve at (631) 332-0552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808

JAN 31

South Shore Symphony

The South Shore Symphony invites all to their “Metamorphosis” concert at their longtime Madison Theatre home. The program features Paul Hindemith’s iconic symphonic “Metamorphosis of Themes” by Carl Maria von Weber, transforming Weber’s melodies into vibrant orchestral movements, alongside other works like “Theme & Variations” and “A Passacaglia,” showcasing musical transformation through different eras and styles.

• Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre

• Time: 7:30 p.m.

• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444

an event?

Text and photos compiled by

Christie Leigh Babirad

Jack Murphy Massapequa Park

age 14, Berner Middle School

I want to work on my reading and baseball skills

Amanda Rushton Massapequa

Work on myself, be healthier and exercise.

Jennifer Mollica Massapequa Park

More consistency in my health and fitness, faith and organization.

Melanie Murphy Massapequa Park

In this new year, I want to live more in the moment instead of worrying about future moments.

Max Murphy Massapequa Park age 10, East Lake Elementary School I want to be more of a leader on my sport teams, and I want to hit some home runs.

Notice of formation of Flawlyss LLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/17/2025 Office location, County of Nassau. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.  SSNY shall mail a process served to: Flawlyss LLC, 5 Dougherty St, Glen Cove NY 11542

Purpose: any lawful act.

25-315. 12/24,31, 1/7, 14, 21, 28

Notice of Formation of XLAB82 LLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/18/2025 Office Location, County of Nassau. SSNY has been desginated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a process served to: XLAB82 LLC, 82 Parkhill Ave, Massapequa, NY 11758.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

25-317. 12/24, 31, 1/7, 14, 21, 28

Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-0240-25139512 for beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 25 Cuttermill Road, Unit 8/9, Great Neck, NY 11021, County of Nassau, for on premises consumption at Basta Catering LLC.

26-6 1/14, 21

Public Notices

Notice of Application for Authority AD MORT LLC filed an Application for Authority with the New York Department of State on November 6, 2025. The LLC was organized in the State of New Jersey on March 11, 2021.

The county within New York State in which the office of the LLC is to be located is Nassau County.

The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served, and the address to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process is 316 Fulton Avenue, Apt. 7, Hempstead, NY 11550.

The address of the office of the LLC in its jurisdiction of formation is 912 Cedar Bridge Avenue, #7, Brick, NJ 08723. The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful act or activity.

26-7 1/14, 21, 28, 2/4, 11, 18

NOTICE OF FORMATION of Devora Finkel Law PLLC. Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/31/25 OBice location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to 262 Mulberry Lane West Hempstead NY 11552. Purpose: any lawful act.

26-11. 1/21. 28. 2/4, 11, 18, 25

Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-0267-26100013 for beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Bar/ Tavern under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 1701 Merrick Road, Merrick, NY 11566, County of Nassau, for on premises consumption at R K MERRICK ENTERPRISES INC.

26-8. 1/21. 28

Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-0370-25139548 for liquor, beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor, beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Bar/ Tavern under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 3490 Merrick Road, Seaford, NY 11783, County of Nassau, for on premises consumption at JGAP LLC. 26-9. 1/21, 28

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF COMPLETION OF TENTATIVE ANNUAL ASSESSMENT ROLL

TAKE NOTICE: The Assessment Roll for the Village of Massapequa Park for the Year 2026 has been completed and will be filed in my office at the Village Hall, 151 Front Street, Massapequa Park, New York on the 2nd day of February 2026 where the same will remain open for public inspection until Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

BE IT ALSO KNOWN: that the latest state equalization rate for the Village of Massapequa Park is 0.98 and the final residential assessment ratio (RAR) for the Village is 1.17 LINDA TUMINELLO

Village Administrator/ Clerk

By Order of the Board of Trustees Dated at Massapequa Park, New York this 13th day of January 2026 26-10 1/21

Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-0340-26100769 for liquor, beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor, beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 1132 Wantagh Ave, Wantagh, NY 11793, County of Nassau, for on premises consumption at Wantagh Diner Group LLC. 26-13 1/21, 28

Facinating truths about cat mummies

A visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art last week “reincarnated” my fascination with cat mummies. In 1888, an Egyptian farmer digging in desert town of Ben Hasan accidentally uncovered tens of thousands of cat mummies that had been underground for 2,000 years which introduced cat mummies to the world.

Pets, Pets, Pets...

In pre-pyramid times, animals were a huge part of religion in Egypt. Certain animals were chosen as totems because that species helped them to survive. For example, ibises ate poisonous snakes. Egyptians believed their gods were more than spirits. The gods had to inhabit the bodies of their sacred animals. Anubis, the god of tombs, lived in a jackal’s body because jackals often prowled around tombs. (I have a small Anubis statue from a vanished, Amityville antique shop that I keep next to the urns of my late Afghan Hounds.)

JOANNE ANDERSON

Ancient Egyptians venerated cats because they protected their grain from rodents. They also considered them demi-gods because they believed cats saved the world from darkness. The cats’ fondness for sleeping in the sun associated them with the sun god Ra, eventually linking them to the cat goddess Bastet, with the head of a cat and body of a woman, the bringer of good fortune and health.

Not every cat was considered divine. A cat became sacred only after specific rituals, which were believed to allow Bastet to dwell within the animal. By about 712 B.C., distinctions between gods and sacred animals blurred. Killing a cat — even accidentally — was punishable by death.

Around 945 B.C., with the main temple for Bastet in the city of Bubastis, the cult of Bastet became popular throughout Egypt. People bought bronze cat sculptures to offer at the temple to answer their prayers. Young married women wore cat amulets with cats and kittens and prayed to Bastet for the same number of children as kittens on their necklace. Each year a festival in honor of Bastet brought 700,000 followers, sailing down the Nile from all parts of Egypt to Bubastis.

Cats were so revered that during house fires, people reportedly worried more about cats running into the flames than about their property. When a cat died naturally, household members shaved their eyebrows in mourning and often had the animal mummified as a sign of respect.

At the Met, artifacts include an alabaster cat-shaped cosmetic vessel and gold bracelets adorned with standing lapis lazuli and carnelian cats. There are no cat mummies on display — only a shrew and a small dog.

CAT MUMMIES:

However, cats with special treatment seem to be overstated in historical accounts. Animal mummies in Egypt can be divided into four categories: pets preserved for the afterlife; revered gods; food offerings for the afterlife; and votive offerings, bought by worshiping pilgrims and offered at temples. Most mummies found in Egypt like the Ben Hasan farmer’s and in museum collections are of the votive type. These cats were sacrificed.

For cats kept as companions, Egyptians believed every living being contained a life force called ka. When death occurred, the ka left the body and could return only if it recognized that body. Like humans, cherished cats were sometimes mummified elaborately — organs

removed, bodies dried with natron salts, wrapped in linen, shaped into poses and covered with decorated masks. Some were placed in bronze coffins or hollow Bastet statues, their eyes inlaid with jewels. Others received simpler wrappings. Cat mummies were buried in cemeteries created especially for felines- places like Ben Hasan, Thebes but the most famous cat cemetery was on the Nile delta at Bubastis.

Later, the Persians conquered Egypt, in part by collecting all the cats, dogs and other sacred animals they could find and releasing them at the front lines so the Egyptians would retreat. Next, Alexander the Great grabbed Egypt and, finally, the rise of Christianity obliterated ancient Egyptian beliefs.

Anubis Egyptian jackal god of the dead statue guards urns of my late Afghan Hounds. There are hieroglyphics carved on the back.

When the farmer uncovered the cat mummies in 1888, no archaeologist was present to document the find. Laborers discovered pits containing up to 20 layers of mummies, exposed to sunlight for the first time in two millennia. Many decomposed. Children sold cat mummies to tourists as cheap souvenirs. The remaining 19 tons were shipped to Liverpool and sold as fertilizer for about $23 a ton. It was a grim ending for animals once believed to be vessels of Bastet — and foreshadowing of the widespread looting of Egypt’s antiquities.

PUBLIC NOTICE OF NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER’S SALE OF TAX LIENS ON REAL ESTATE

Notice is hereby given that commencing on February 17th, 2026, will sell at public online auction the tax liens on certain real estate, unless the owner, mortgagee, occupant of or any other party in interest in such real estate shall have paid to the County Treasurer by February 12th, 2026 the total amount of such unpaid taxes or assessments with the interest, penalties and other expenses and charges against the property. Such tax liens will be sold at the lowest rate of interest, not exceeding 10 percent per six-month period, for which any person or persons shall offer to take the total amount of such unpaid taxes as defined in Section 5-37.0 of the Nassau County Administrative Code.

Effective with the February 2019 lien sale Ordinance No. 175-2015 requires a $175.00 per day registration fee for each person who intends to bid at the tax lien sale. Ordinance No. 175-2015 also requires that upon the issuance of the Lien Certificate there is due from the lien buyer a Tax Certificate Issue Fee of $20.00 per lien purchased. Pursuant to the provisions of the Nassau County Administrative Code at the discretion of the Nassau County Treasurer the auction will be conducted online. Further information concerning the procedures for the auction is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at:

https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/526/ County-Treasurer

Should the Treasurer determine that an inperson auction shall be held, same will commence on the 17th day of February 2026 at the Office of The

Public Notices

County Treasurer 1 West Street, Mineola or at some other location to be determined by the Treasurer.

A list of all real estate in Nassau County on which tax liens are to be sold is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at: https://www.nassaucountyny.gov/527/ Annual-Tax-Lien-Sale

A list of local properties upon which tax liens are to be sold will be advertised in this publication on or before February 05th, 2026.

Nassau County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services, programs, or activities. Upon request, accommodations such as those required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to participate in all services, programs, activities and public hearings and events conducted by the Treasurer’s Office. Upon request, information can be made available in Braille, large print, audio-tape or other alternative formats. For additional information, please call (516) 571-2090 ext. 1-3715.

Dated: January 22, 202 6 THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER Mineola, New York TERMS OF SALE

Such tax liens shall be sold subject to any and all superior tax liens of sovereignties and other municipalities and to all claims of record which the County may have thereon and subject to the provisions of the Federal and State Soldiers’ and Sailors' Civil Relief Acts. However, such tax liens shall have priority over the County's Differential Interest Lien, representing the excess, if any, of the interest and penalty borne at the maximum rate

over the interest and penalty borne at the rate at which the lien is purchased.

The Purchaser acknowledges that the tax lien(s) sold pursuant to these Terms of Sale may be subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/or may become subject to such proceedings which may be commenced during the period in which a tax lien is held by a successful bidder or the assignee of same, which may modify a Purchaser's rights with respect to the lien(s) and the property securing same. Such bankruptcy proceedings shall not affect the validity of the tax lien. In addition to being subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/or the Federal and State Soldiers' and Sailors' Civil Relief Acts, said purchaser's right of foreclosure may be affected by the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act (FIRREA),12 U.S.C. ss 1811 et seq., with regard to real property under Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) receivership.

The County Treasurer reserves the right, without further notice and at any time, to withdraw from sale any of the parcels of land or premises herein listed. The Nassau County Treasurer reserves the right to intervene in any bankruptcy case/litigation where the property affected by the tax liens sold by the Treasurer is part of the bankruptcy estate. However, it is the sole responsibility of all tax lien purchasers to protect their legal interests in any bankruptcy case affecting their purchased tax lien, including but not limited to the filing of a proof of claim on their behalf, covering their investment in said tax lien.

The Nassau County Treasurer and Nassau County and its

agencies, assumes no responsibility for any legal representation of any tax lien purchaser in any legal proceeding including but not limited to a bankruptcy case where the purchased tax lien is at risk.

The rate of interest and penalty at which any person purchases the tax lien shall be established by his bid. Each purchaser, immediately after the sale thereof, shall pay to the County Treasurer ten per cent of the amount for which the tax liens have been sold and the remaining ninety per cent within thirty days after such sale. If the purchaser at the tax sale shall fail to pay the remaining ninety per cent within ten days after he has been notified by the County Treasurer that the certificates of sale are ready for delivery, then all amounts deposited with the County Treasurer including but not limited to the ten per cent theretofore paid by him shall, without further notice or demand, be irrevocably forfeited by the purchaser and shall be retained by the County Treasurer as liquidated damages and the agreement to purchase shall be of no further effect. Time is of the essence in this sale. This sale is held pursuant to the Nassau County Administrative Code and interested parties are referred to such Code for additional information as to terms of the sale, rights of purchasers, maximum rates of interest and other legal incidents of the sale.

Furthermore, as to the bidding,

1. The bidder(s) agree that they will not work with any other bidder(s) to increase, maintain or stabilize interest rates or collaborate with any other bidder(s) to gain an unfair competitive advantage in the random number generator in the event

of a tie bid(s) on a tax certificate. Bidder(s) further agree not to employ any bidding strategy designed to create an unfair competitive advantage in the tiebreaking process in the upcoming tax sale nor work with any other bidder(s) to engage in any bidding strategy that will result in a rotational award of tax certificates.

2. The tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) bid, will be arrived at independently and without direct or indirect consultation, communication or agreement with any other bidder and that the tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) to be bid, have not been disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder, and will not be disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder prior to the close of bidding. No attempt has been made or will be made to, directly or indirectly, induce any other bidder to refrain from bidding on any tax certificate, to submit complementary bids, or to submit bids at specific interest rates.

3. The bids to be placed by the Bidder will be made in good faith and not pursuant to any direct or indirect, agreement or discussion with, or inducement from, any other bidder to submit a complementary or other noncompetitive bid.

4. If it is determined that the bidder(s) have violated any of these bid requirements then their bid shall be voided and if they were the successful bidder the lien and any deposits made in connection with said bid shall be forfeited.

Dated: January 22, 2026

THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER Mineola, New York 26-12. 1/21, 28

Shine a

on vitamin D

Many vitamins are important for personal health, but come the wintertime, vitamin D may dominate the headlines. That’s because hours of sunlight dwindle in the winter, which can lower levels of vitamin D in the body.

Vitamin D sometimes is referred to as the “sunshine vitamin” because of its ties to the sun. The Cleveland Clinic says sun exposure on the skin is one way for people to get vitamin D. However, people with darker skin or those in certain geographical locations that do not get enough sunlight may not get sufficient vitamin D. Supplementation with foods that contain vitamin D or through pills may be necessary. Vitamin D helps maintain a balance of calcium in the body and facilitates the building and maintaining of strong bones. The Mayo Clinic says low vitamin D levels have been tied to cancer, cognitive decline, multiple sclerosis, rickets, and psoriasis. But how much vitamin D does a person need? The recommended daily amount of vitamin D is 400 international units for children up to age 12 months, 600 IU for those ages one to 70 years old, and 800 IU for people over 70 years of age. However, some doctors recommend people take higher amounts. The Endocrine Society, for example, suggests higher daily doses of 1,500 to 2,000 IU may be needed for some adults. Although vitamin D deficiency may compromise health, it’s important to note that going too far in the other direction also is unhealthy. Harvard Health advises against taking more than 4,000 IU per day, which is considered the safe upper limit. High doses of vitamin D can cause too much calcium to form in the blood, a condition called hypercalcemia. This raises the risk of fatal heart conditions. Increasing vitamin D intake also increases the risk for kidney stones, so the pros and cons must be weighed. Symptoms of too much vitamin D can include vomiting, nausea, stomach pain, fatigue, dizziness, confusion, increased thirst, and frequent urination. Getting vitamin D naturally through sunlight and food sources is preferable to supplements. Fatty fish, mushrooms, liver, shrimp, and oysters are some foods that are excellent sources of vitamin D. UCLA Health says eight to 10 minutes of sun exposure at noon produces the recommended amount of vitamin D. However, in the winter when only 10 percent of the body is exposed, nearly two hours of sun exposure at noon is needed to produce a sufficient amount of vitamin D. Geographic regions may produce different rates of exposure needed to ensure sufficient vitamin D production.

Vitamin D is necessary for health, but many people are not getting enough. Increasing exposure to the sun, eating the right foods and supplementation when needed can improve vitamin D levels.

DIRECTOR OF BUREAU OF ADMINISTRATIVE ADJUDICATION

Wanted- Director of The Town of Babylon Director of Bureau of Administrative Adjudication. Candidate must be in possession of a New York State license to practice law before the Bar of the State of New York with a minimum of five (5) years of experience as an Attorney in the State of NY. Candidate shall oversee a large staff as well as attorneys who prosecute cases for the Town of Babylon, establish fines and collection procedures. Shall establish rules for the practice and procedure of the Bureau, the conduct of adjudications and the dismissal or settlement of proceedings. Be fully knowledgeable of all town and New York State codes and procedures and experience and ability to act in the capacity of an Administrative Law Judge pursuant to NY State General Municipal Law Section 381. Salary commensurate with experience. Resumes only. Send to: Judith Garrick Town of Babylon Personnel Officer Municipal Building-2nd Floor 456 Albany Ave Amityville, NY 11701

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 multi-task, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines.

Salary Range is $17 per hour to $20 per hour.

For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: circulationassociate@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

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome! $22 - $27/ Hour Bell Auto School 516-365-5778

Email: info@bellautoschool.com

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

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 from $17 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 $35,360 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media,

Spacious Split

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Keeping indoor air clean

Q. Every winter I get terrible colds, and this year I got a postcard from a company that cleans air conditioning ducts. Does this help? I’m concerned about stirring up more dust. What else can I do except buy one of those portable air cleaners?

A. These days, with all the requirements for home energy savings, airtight homes and pressurized air testing, homes are much more likely to have impurities in the air.

Homes used to be built with alkali-laden plaster, which mold couldn’t live on. People wore sweaters, because windows leaked cold air and homes were cooler. It seems that modern materials and methods actually brought on more sickness.

The paper backing on gypsum wallboard provides an excellent place in a dark wall cavity for mold spores to live. Inert, sprayed-in foam does help, but most people are intimidated by the cost. Carpets gather dust and, when vacuumed, may release more impurities into the air.

Cleaning hard-walled metal air ducts is a good idea after a couple of years of continuous use. If you only use the system in midsummer heat spells, the main reason to clean the ducts is because dust settles there and adheres to the sides of the air ducts. Spores and other mold prosper in the layers of dust, and can remain inactive until moisture is present, which is why, at certain times of the year, condensation from cold meeting warm air allows the mold to develop.

You should be aware that some air conditioning companies make life easier for themselves by putting in flexible, soft, round duct, which comprises an inner lining of foil attached to a wire spiral frame covered with a thin layer of fiberglass insulation and a plastic sheeting cover. The system installation costs less if the installer passes on the savings to you, and is simpler to install. By simpler, I mean that duct tape is used instead of mechanical fastening with bends of metal and screws.

Unfortunately, you can’t clean flex duct, since the devices used to clean duct apply pressure, with vacuum and scraping techniques that will destroy your flex duct and render your system useless. You should consider cleaning the main “trunks,” which are probably made of metal duct. Duct cleaning is the first step to better breathing in the home. Then, after cleaning, have a reliable mechanical contractor install a filter in your central air conditioning unit, so you have “in-line” filtration.

Ask about the different types of filter systems, such as an electronic, static-type unit that catches dust like a magnet, and also how often the filter requires cleaning or replacement. Don’t just look for the lowest-priced unit, since the maintenance or replacement of the filter may be much more than the savings. With the electrostatic filter, you may be able to simply wash the filter and put it back. Once the filter is installed, you won’t require the portable type, and you should breathe easier, which is nothing to sneeze at.

© 2026 Monte Leeper

Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald

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It’s

time for Albany to put New Yorkers first

since being elected to my first term as a state senator in 2023, I have seen how issues raised by Senate Republicans are often ignored, only to resurface months later as priorities for the governor or the legislative majorities. One such example is the legislation introduced over a year ago by the Republican conference to eliminate state taxes on tipped wages.

I am proud to cosponsor this legislation, because it’s a real solution that would allow residents to keep more of their earnings. My colleagues in the Senate Republican conference and I have raised the alarm on affordability and public safety, because these are the issues directly impacting families, workers and small businesses across New York state.

New York’s affordability crisis didn’t happen overnight. It is the product of years of policy decisions made without consideration of the eventual consequences of those policies, which have increased the cost of necessities for all New Yorkers. Many Democratic politi-

Wcians in Albany still believe we can spend our way out of the affordability crisis they have created.

Recently I’ve spoken about how cashless bail and the revolving door of criminal justice have affected the price of consumer goods and insurance across the state. After the implementation of cashless bail, shoplifting became sport for those brazen enough to walk into stores, empty the shelves and walk out with hundreds of dollars of merchandise while taunting the employees to stop them if they dared. Companies made decisions to allow shoplifters to walk away rather than risk harm to their employees.

The challenges we face every day can only be solved with real policy changes.

nor to pay lip service to the harms this policy has caused the state, while only offering Band-Aids as “solutions.” Even before I took office, our conference warned that these reforms went too far and would have serious consequences. Since then, my colleagues and I have put forward multiple legislative solutions for the governor and legislative majorities to consider, including my bill that would restore judicial discretion to detain defendants who credibly pose a danger to the community, a legal principle that is recognized in 49 states.

tations on rate increases, and realistic deadlines so families aren’t forced to pay the price for policies that move faster than technology, infrastructure and New Yorkers’ wallets can support.

The eventual effect of this policy was that retailers absorbed the losses, paid higher insurance premiums and raised prices to make up the difference, affecting all of us. Insurance companies paying out claims for those losses also increased their rates for all New Yorkers. This trickle-down effect of cashless bail impacting affordability wasn’t considered by the shortsighted State Legislature.

Since the state passed bail and discovery reforms in 2019, it has become an almost annual tradition for the gover-

Albany-driven energy policies are also driving up taxes and utility costs, increasing energy bills for families and imposing costly burdens on small businesses. While I support taking steps to safeguard our environment, eliminating reliable sources of energy and favoring less-reliable sources is reckless and dangerous. The State Energy Planning Board recently acknowledged that reality by adopting an energy plan that delays the benchmarks for reducing emissions set forth in the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act passed in 2019. But this half-measure isn’t enough. We must advance legislation that includes transparency by utility companies, limi-

In the wake of several high-profile incidents and tragedies involving squatters in 2024, I brought an amendment to the Senate floor to correct state laws that were empowering and emboldening squatters. While my proposal was voted down at the time, a similar, albeit watered-down, proposal was ultimately tucked into the final state budget not long afterward. Time and again, the governor and the legislative majorities initially deny the realities and challenges New Yorkers are facing — which members of my conference and I consistently voice in the Senate chamber — only to later acknowledge these realities and pass legislative half-measures to pretend the problem is solved.

These challenges New Yorkers face every day didn’t happen overnight, and they can only be solved with real policy changes, not more spending and empty promises. In this year’s legislative session, I will continue to fight for real solutions: lowering costs, holding criminals accountable and giving families, workers and small businesses the stability they need to thrive.

Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick represents the 9th State Senate District.

A silent health threat facing Long Islanders

e are in the midst of a growing public health crisis, one that especially impacts senior citizens. Fortunately, everyone can take an active role in solving it, not just scientists, researchers and health care professionals.

charles j. fuschillo jr.

Loneliness and social isolation are widespread. One in three American adults reported feeling lonely, while one in four conveyed having no social and emotional support, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This goes far beyond occasional feelings of loneliness or disconnect that everyone experiences periodically, or briefly going off the grid to recharge the body and mind. Someone who is socially isolated has few relationships and little contact with others, while those who are lonely feel like they lack meaningful or close relationships or a sense of belonging.

Research shows that prolonged loneliness and social isolation increase the risk of numerous health conditions, including

cognitive decline and memory loss, depression, anxiety, stress, high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. They can also make existing illnesses worse; someone with Alzheimer’s disease, for example, may have accelerated symptoms due to lack of social and mental stimulation. For caregivers, they can lead to caregiver burnout.

p

Regular social engagement helps stimulate the brain and support cognitive health, improves mood, encourages physical activity and better sleep, and strengthens emotional resilience. As is the case with other lifestyle choices — healthy diet, exercise, proper sleep, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption — prioritizing or neglecting it influences numerous facets of health.

on Long Island during the winter, when the weather makes leaving the house harder. Fear, embarrassment and selfconsciousness can also lead people to withdraw.

Technology can partially bridge the gap, but not all seniors feel comfortable using it. Without support and training, many are left disconnected from family, friends and the larger community.

eople of all ages can feel lonely and isolated, but especially seniors.

An estimated 111,000 Long Islanders ages 65 and older — roughly one out of every five seniors — live alone, according to Newsday. Fortunately, there are a variety of free resources available to help them strengthen social bonds and stay connected.

grams and opportunities to socialize with other nearby residents. Local libraries offer activities, social gatherings and group outings, many of which center on learning about or trying something new, an added benefit for brain health. Religious institutions often have social groups for their congregations.

We can all take small steps in our daily lives that will make a big difference. Visit or call someone instead of texting or emailing them (especially if they’re older); it will help both of you feel more connected. Encourage someone to take advantage of the services described above, and go along with them to help them break the ice. Check in with family, friends and elderly neighbors periodically to see if they need anything; that simple act will remind them that someone is thinking of them, and promote feelings of connectivity.

Loneliness and isolation occur in people of all ages, and senior citizens are especially susceptible. Older adults isolate for many reasons. Some live alone after the loss of a spouse, and don’t have relatives or close friends nearby. Others face mobility issues, such as not being able to drive and lacking alternative transportation, or have a health condition that makes going out harder. Mobility challenges are even more problematic

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America offers free daily activity programming at its AFA Barbara Rabinowitz Education & Resource Center in Amityville, including music, creative arts, rhythm and movement, and brain games. The activities are dementia-friendly, but you don’t need to have a dementia-related illness to participate; programming is open to all seniors. Learn more and view upcoming free activities at afalongisland. org, or call the center at (631) 223-4000. Municipal senior centers offer pro-

Social connection isn’t a luxury — it is essential for maintaining physical health, cognitive function, emotional well-being and overall quality of life. Unlike other conditions, loneliness and isolation can’t be cured or medicated with pills. Helping hands and warm hearts are the necessary treatments. Every one of us can provide them.

Charles J. Fuschillo Jr., of Merrick, is president and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.

Massapequa

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Ira L. Cahn - Founder

Established 1951

Incorporating Massapequa Post in 2024

CaroLyn James

offiCe

2 Endo Boulevard Garden City, NY 11530 Phone:

Modernizing support for volunteer firefighters

New York’s volunteer firefighters and emergency service personnel have long been the backbone of the state’s emergency response system. On Long Island and across New York, they respond not only to fires, but also to car accidents, medical emergencies, storms and disasters of every kind.

Their service saves taxpayers an estimated $3.8 billion each year, according to the Firefighters Association of the State of New York. Yet despite their value, volunteer departments are struggling to recruit and retain enough members to meet growing demands.

The reasons are familiar. Potential volunteers say they don’t have the time, that the commitment feels overwhelming, or that the system is simply too complicated to navigate. Cultural and economic changes have made it harder for people to give unpaid time, and the numbers show it: New York’s volunteer fire service has declined from roughly 120,000 members in the early 2000s to about 80,000 today. While this is not yet a full-blown crisis, it is a warning sign that action is needed now.

Now, FASNY is proposing the next step: the Volunteer Optimization Legislative Initiative. This package of 14 straightforward actions is designed to modernize how New York supports volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel, making service more feasible for today’s families and workers. Importantly, these initiatives would apply uniformly across the state, ensuring fairness and consistency for all volunteer departments.

For more than a decade, FASNY has

worked to reverse the decline in the number of volunteers. Through initiatives like Train the Recruiter classes and a statewide outreach campaign, the organization has consistently pushed creative solutions.

In recent years, that effort has been strengthened by a productive partnership with Gov. Kathy Hochul and many state legislators. Together they have delivered training stipends, grants for capital improvements and funding for equipment purchases that have made a real difference in communities statewide.

At its core, VOLI recognizes that volunteers should not be penalized financially for serving. Several proposals focus on meaningful tax relief, including an enhanced volunteer firefighter and EMS income tax credit, the ability to combine such credits with property tax exemptions, and new credits to help offset child care and family-related expenses. Housing affordability is addressed with exemptions from mortgage recording taxes and optional local relief on recording fees, helping volunteers live in the communities they protect.

Other initiatives acknowledge the real, day-to-day costs of volunteering. VOLI would allow departments or authorities having jurisdiction to reimburse volunteers’ reasonable out-ofpocket expenses without creating tax burdens. It also proposes incentives for on-call duty shifts through the Length of Service Award Program, and statefunded reimbursement mechanisms to help smaller departments afford these benefits.

Workplace realities are another major

barrier to volunteering, and VOLI tackles this head-on. Employer tax incentives would encourage businesses to hire volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel while allowing them to respond during business hours. At the same time, volunteers would gain stronger workplace protections.

Equally important, the initiative would prohibit local governments, unions or bargaining units from preventing career firefighters from volunteering in their home communities, expanding the potential pool of experienced responders.

Safety and fairness are also central themes. VOLI would bring volunteer injury benefits in line with standard workers’ compensation, ensuring equal protection when volunteers are hurt in the line of duty. It would also expand eligibility for training stipends, public service loan forgiveness, and state tuition assistance, recognizing that education and training benefit both volunteers and the communities they serve.

Taken together, these 14 initiatives do not represent radical change. They are practical, thoughtful updates that reflect modern economic realities while respecting the proud tradition of volunteer service.

With the new state legislative session under way, FASNY representatives will discuss these proposals. Implementing at least a majority of them, if not all, would strengthen recruitment and retention, protect taxpayers, and help ensure that New York’s volunteer fire and EMS system remains strong for generations to come.

Both parties share the blame for the mess we’re in

To the Editor:

Re Jerry Kremer’s column in the Jan. 1-7 issue, “For President Trump, too many missed opportunities,” I will try to be as fair and balanced as possible.

Neither a Democrat nor a Republican, I’m an independent. We are as divided as ever, but the fault for that lies at the feet of both parties. Their respective loyalties override the business of representing the needs of the people.

Since the beginning of President Trump’s second term, no matter whatever good he has done, Democrats find fault with it. The reality is that he inherited a domestic as well as an international mess that was administered by behind-thescenes figures who were propping up a cognitive declined president. A year into

opinions 2025 was a year of progress

irecently had the chance to voice our region’s concerns to the State Senate minority delegation. And believe me, between the unfunded mandates from Albany, rising health care and pension costs, and a lack of state funding, there are many actionable steps Albany can take.

I was happy, though, to showcase the progress we made both last year and in my first term. It’s that progress that contributes to my vision of a safer and more affordable Suffolk County — a blueprint for other leaders around the state.

bridges (including 39 state bridges’ wearing surfaces), 194 culverts, 57 spillways, 31 bulkheads and four movable bridges, has oversight over 80 priority navigational channels and manages roughly 650 traffic signals. Our work includes permitting and regulatory compliance required by various state and federal agencies to ensure that transportation remains safe.

Bond rating upgrades. The clearest reflection of the positive budgeting changes implemented in Suffolk is our rising bond rating by both Fitch Ratings and S&P. Both currently rate the county at AA– and have raised the ratings on outstanding bonds. Similarly, both agencies give Suffolk a positive outlook going forward. Backing up this assessment are the county’s large reserve funds, conservative budgeting practices and estimation, and our sizable tax base.

Infrastructure. Suffolk County maintains 1,150 lane miles of highways, 110

Letters

office, Trump has to address affordability, with everyday costs that are crushing the majority of Americans. The expense of groceries, health care, auto and homeowner’s insurance and prescription drugs are forcing people to make hard choices, because dollars can be stretched only so far. Interest rates for mortgages and loans are still too high.

The other reality is that the president has a nine-month window to address affordability, or he will lose Congress in November. Describing it as a “hoax” was ill-advised and alienating. If Trump loses Congress, the remainder of his presidency will be tied up in gridlock and attempts to impeach him. Nothing will get done, and the American people will go backward — while the two-party system, which has outlived its usefulness, will flourish. Promoting their own agendas to finagle and scheme to stay in power, the parties will do nothing to respond to the needs of everyday people, but everything for the special interests, lobbyists, and big campaign contributors.

tious sewer projects that are underway. Voters in Oakdale and Great River approved the Great River Sewer Expansion, with 89 percent of the vote. This project will connect 400 homes to the Southwest Sewer District, with the cost covered by state and federal grants.

asafer, more affordable

Our Department of Public Works worked with regulators last year, when the aging Smith Point Bridge was temporarily reduced to a three-ton weight limit by the state DOT. Working with the state, we were able to keep one lane open at 15 tons, allowing emergency vehicles to access the beach.

Suffolk County can serve as a blueprint for other leaders.

Through executive action, I have fast-tracked the retrofitting of the bridge and the construction of a new one. A new Smith Point Bridge was to be completed in 2024. Unfortunately, my predecessor, Steve Bellone, did not initiate that project. Delaying maintenance only increases costs, as seen by the need to retrofit the current bridge.

Sewering. Thanks to voters who passed the referendum authorized by the Suffolk County Clean Water Act, the county now has the revenue stream needed to support many of the ambi-

Earlier in the year, the Forge River Sewer Treatment Plant connected nearly 2,000 homes and businesses in the Forge River watershed to the district. Both have ambitious wastewater projects underway that serve the dual purpose of economic development and removing nitrogen from our surface and groundwater.

Social services. How many harrowing stories have we heard on the nightly news of children trafficked, abused or worse in our county? Too many. My office has spearheaded Operation Safe and Lasting Return to facilitate a multi-agency effort to locate and return trafficked children and adolescents. By examining the worst cases, we have identified major gaps in communication among departments, law enforcement and nonprofits, and have remedied those deficiencies with new technology and processes.

We unveiled these changes at our annual child protection conference, which was attended by hundreds of social workers, law enforcement offi-

Framework by Tim Baker

cers and educators.

When it comes to administering the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, we have increased the portion of applications fulfilled in a timely manner to 95.5 percent, from 59 percent in January 2024. We did so without any budgetary changes.

Together, through common-sense policies, we can continue to increase the delivery of basic government services without straining our finances.

Public safety. These past two years, I have increased the number of police officers and detectives in the county Police Department to keep our communities safe. Working with the Legislature, I passed laws to stop illegal street takeovers, prevent the sale of illegal vaping products and protect our communities. Quality-of-life concerns are a major priority for my administration.

Many of these issues have real victims and consequences. For example, a street takeover earlier this year blocked emergency responders, delaying ambulance arrival to a critical call, putting lives at risk. Likewise, flavored vape products are actively marketed to children, increasing health risks among youth in our community.

Together with our partners in government and community leaders, I remain committed to making Suffolk safer and more affordable. Thank you for your continued support.

Ed Romaine is the Suffolk County executive.

January

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