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Bill Hogan named parade grand marshal

New year, new beginnings At 4 a.m. on New Year’s Day, Janiah Thompson made her grand entrance, becoming the first baby born at Mercy Hospital in 2026. Wrapped in love and surrounded by festive decorations, this little one is already a star. The family was overjoyed to welcome their newest member just in time to ring in 2026. Story and more photos, Page 20.

“They turned it into a parade that cares and shares, picking three charities annually and For Bill Hogan, leading the spreading the good fortune of 2026 Rockville Centre St. Pat- Rockville Centre while supportrick’s Day Parade isn’t just an ing local businesses. I’ve suphonor — it will be a walk down ported it for years, and to have memory lane through decades them choose me as an honoree of community, family and vol- is a great honor.” The recognition, unteer service. he said, reflects the The parade will collective efforts of take place March 21, many families who along Maple Avenue, have contributed to and is expected to the village over the draw thousands of years. “They just spectators to the vilpicked me as a replage’s downtown, as resentative of a genalways. eration of adults Ho g an, 57, has that did a lot for the been a Rockville c o m m u n i t y, ” h e Centre resident for BIll HoGAN said. 28 years, and has Ashley Brennan, been deeply involved in youth sports, parish president of the St. Patrick’s life and charitable initiatives Parade Committee, said Hogan around the community. He has exemplifies the qualities the held leadership roles with St. organization looks for in a Agnes CYO, coached a number grand marshal. “There’s no official applicaof youth sports teams and supported a wide range of philan- tion process,” Brennan said. thropic causes, including the “It’s someone who has shown St. Baldrick’s and Tunnel to strength in the community and has given back, and Bill Hogan Towers foundations. “It’s been a great celebration is just a phenomenal person of the village for a long time, with really strong ties to CYO and I really love the way they and volunteer service.” Brennan said that Hogan’s celebrate the community,” Hogan said of the parade. Continued on page 19

By BRIAN KACHARABA

bkacharaba@liherald.com

Courtesy Catholic Health Mercy Hospital

Mary Ruchalski Foundation grants $105K to cancer research By AlYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

The Mary Ruchalski Foundation made 2025 its most impactful year yet, continuing its mission to fight pediatric cancer. Driven by a year of successful fundraising efforts, the Rockville Centre-based nonprofit awarded $105,000 in grants to four nationally recognized cancer research institutions: the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Children’s Cancer Therapy Development Institute. The grants were formally presented during

the final week of the year, marking a significant milestone for the organization. “It’s amazing how these big research labs are coming to us for funding,” Carol Ruchalski, the mother of the late Mary Ruchalski and the foundation’s creator, said. “This year more than ever, it was so important that we gave it to them. I feel like Mary made that happen for me.” Each of the labs focuses on advancing treatments and working toward cures for pediatric cancers, including rhabdomyosarcoma — the rare disorder that claimed Mary Ruchalski’s life in 2018, when she was 12. The foundation created in her memory has since grown into a trusted Continued on page 12

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January 8, 2026 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — January 8, 2026 Photos courtesy Rockville Centre Public Library

The Sisko family attended the “Noon Year” celebration, including parents Christina and Anthony and their children, Mirabella, 6, and Emelina, 4.

New Year’s fun comes early for kids at library While most New Year’s Eve celebrations happen long after bedtime for young children, the Rockville Centre Public Library made sure its youngest patrons didn’t miss out on the fun — by ringing in the New Year at noon. The library hosted a festive Noon Year’s Eve celebration on Dec. 30, welcoming families from across the village for a joyful, age-appropriate event filled with music, crafts and snacks. Designed especially for young children, the hour-long party offered all the excitement of a traditional New Year’s Eve countdown, without the late night. The celebration took place in the Helen Kraus Room, where children and parents gathered eagerly as the

clock ticked toward noon. When the countdown reached zero, balloons were released and confetti filled the air, prompting cheers and laughter from the crowd. Throughout the event, children laughed, played and took part in hands-on activities, creating a festive atmosphere that captured the spirit of welcoming a new year in a fun and inclusive way. The mid-day timing allowed families to celebrate together while keeping the event accessible for even the youngest attendees. For more information about upcoming programs and events, visit RVCLibrary.org.

Families gathered to witness the countdown to noon before the release of confetti and balloons.

–Alyssa R. Griffin

Numerous families celebrated the new year early at the Rockville Centre Public Library on Dec. 30.

Colin, left, and Adam Sweeney enjoyed a funfilled celebration as they await the countdown.

Cameron Sweeney and his sons, Adam, 3, and Colin, 5, enjoyed some arts and crafts to ring in 2026.

Crime watCh assault On Jan. 1, a Freeport resident reported that she was punched in the face by an unknown subject while in the parking lot of an Ocean Avenue hotel. On Jan. 1, a North Baldwin resident reported that she was punched in the face by an unknown female behind a Sunrise Highway bar on Christmas Eve, sustaining a broken nose as a result.

larCeny On Dec. 30, the manager of a Maple Avenue business reported that money was stolen from the cash register.

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On Jan. 1, a Farmingdale resident reported that he sold numerous trading cards to an acquaintance who paid with a personal check, which subsequently bounced.

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4HE lRST MYTH TO EXPLORE ABOUT ESTATE PLANNING IS THAT YOU CAN DO IT YOURSELF OVER THE INTERNET 4HIS SUPPOSES THAT A TRUST IS A GENERIC LEGAL DOCUMENT WHERE YOU PLUG IN NAMES ADDRESSES AND AMOUNTS YOU WANT TO GIVE AND THEN OFF YOU GO (OWEVER EXPERIENCED ESTATE PLANNING LAWYERS WILL TELL YOU THE JOB IS NINETY PERCENT SOCIAL WORK AND ONLY TEN PERCENT LEGAL -OST OF THE TIME WE SPEND WITH CLIENTS INVOLVES GOING OVER THE SOCIAL ASPECTS OF THE ESTATE PLAN &IRST WHO SHOULD BE IN CHARGE OF YOUR LEGAL AND lNANCIAL DECISION MAKING IN THE EVENT OF DEATH OR DISABILITY /NE PERSON OR MORE THAN ONE 3HOULD THEY BE REQUIRED TO ACT TOGETHER OR MAY THEY BE PERMITTED TO ACT SEPARATELY (OW ARE THE OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS GOING TO FEEL ABOUT THESE CHOICES 7HO GETS ALONG WITH WHOM 7HAT ARE MY OPTIONS AND WHAT DO OTHER PEOPLE DO AND WHY 9OU NEED TO BE IN A POSITION TO EVALUATE PROS AND CONS AND THERE S NO COUNSELLING ON THE INTERNET 'ETTING AN ESTATE PLAN FROM OUT OF STATE IS FRAUGHT WITH OTHER PITFALLS 4AKE THE .EW 9ORK FORM OF POWER OF ATTORNEY FOR EXAMPLE )N OUR EXPERIENCE EVEN TRAINED LAWYERS OFTEN MAKE MAJOR

ERRORS IN DRAFTING AND EXECUTING THE COMPLEX .EW 9ORK FORM OF POWER OF ATTORNEY 7HAT CHANCE DOES A LAY PERSON HAVE TO GET IT RIGHT 4HEN THERE S THE FALSE SENSE OF SECURITY ONE HAS IN BELIEVING THEY HAVE AN ADEQUATE PLAN UNTIL IT IS TOO LATE n ULTIMATELY ENDING UP WITH THE FAMILY LOSING THEIR HOME AND LIFE SAVINGS 7HY "ECAUSE ONLINE ESTATE PLANNING DOES NOT ADDRESS PROTECTING ASSETS FROM THE EXTRAORDINARILY HIGH COST OF LONG TERM CARE EITHER AT HOME OR IN A FACILITY 4HIS INVOLVES PLANNING WITH A -EDICAID !SSET 0ROTECTION 4RUST -!04 ONLY AVAILABLE FROM AN EXPERIENCED ELDER LAW lRM AND NOT FROM THE INTERNET #ONSIDER THIS 9OUR CHANCE OF HAVING YOUR HOUSE BURN DOWN IN ANY GIVEN YEAR IS ABOUT ONE IN THREE THOUSAND 9ET WHO DOESN T CARRY HOMEOWNER S INSURANCE EVERY YEAR /N THE OTHER HAND THE MORTALITY RATE IS STUBBORNLY STUCK AT ONE HUNDRED PERCENT 9OUR ESTATE PLAN FOR YOUR FAMILY YOUR HOME AND YOUR LIFE SAVINGS IS SIMPLY WORTHWHILE INSURANCE THAT WILL ONE DAY PAY OFF .OT ONLY THAT BUT YOU ONLY PAY FOR IT ONCE AND HAVE THAT INSURANCE FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFETIME

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On Jan. 2, a Linden Street resident reported that money was stolen from the center console of his unlocked vehicle while it was parked on Merrick Road. On Jan. 4, an Oceanside resident reported that money was stolen from his wallet which was in his unlocked car while it was parked on North Village Avenue.

leaving the sCene On Jan. 2, an Oceanside resident reported that his vehicle was struck by another vehicle which then fled the scene while both were traveling on South Park Avenue.

lost property On Dec. 30, a Grand Avenue resident reported losing her handicapped parking permit.

People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.

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January 8, 2026 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

GLYNN FUNERAL HOME

Fire watCh The Rockville Centre Fire Department is always looking for help in serving our community. If you live here or in any one of the adjacent communities and are interested in joining or just

have questions, please visit any firehouse on Sunday mornings and speak with one of the officers or call (516) 6789320. For emergencies dial 911 or (516) 766-0400.

December 28 – January 4

Totals for 2025

General Alarms – 6 Still Alarms – 6 Rescue – 5 Aided Cases (Ambulance) – 49 Mutual Aid Fire – 1 Mutual Aid Rescue – 0 Mutual Aid Ambulance – 0 Total – 67

General Alarms – 471 Still Alarms – 300 Rescue – 205 Aided Cases (Ambulance) – 2,496 Mutual Aid Fire – 87 Mutual Aid Rescue – 1 Mutual Aid Ambulance – 12 Total – 3,572

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HERALD HOW TO REACH US

Our offices are located at 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530 and are open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

MAIN PHONE: (516) 569-4000 ■ WEB SITE: www.liherald.com/rockvillecentre ■ E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: rvceditor@liherald.com ■ EDITORIAl DEPARTMENT: Ext. 205 E-mail: rvceditor@liherald.com ■ SUBSCRIPTIONS: Press ”7” E-mail: subscriptions@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4942 ■ ClASSIFIED ADVERTISING: Ext. 286 E-mail: ereynolds@liherald.com Fax: (516) 622-7460 ■ DISPlAY ADVERTISING: Ext. 249 E-mail: rglickman@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4643 ■ PUBlIC NOTICES: Ext. 232 E-mail: legalnotices@liherald.com The Rockville Centre Herald USPS 74660, is published every Thursday by Richner Communications, Inc., 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Periodicals postage paid at Garden City, NY 11530 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster send address changes to Rockville Centre Herald, 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Newsstand Price: $1. Annual Subscription Rates, $52 per year autopay or $65 one-time payment within Nassau County or $76 outside of Nassau County. Copyright © 2026 Richner Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

First new teams added to South Side sign

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — January 8, 2026

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

It didn’t take long for South Side High School athletics to begin filling in the new championship recognition sign installed last October. Within weeks of the sign’s unveiling, the girls’ soccer and volleyball teams became the first South Side programs to have their titles displayed, following championship runs that unfolded over a three-week span in November. Both teams were recognized during a ceremony at the site of the sign, located at the corner of Ocean Avenue and Sunrise Highway, on Dec. 22. The sign, donated by Molloy University, was designed to highlight major athletic accomplishments and provide a highly visible showcase of South Side’s success along one of the village’s most visible streets. The girls’ soccer team had to work overtime and beyond to capture its third county title in the past five seasons on Nov. 2 after defeating Garden City in a dramatic county final at Farmingdale State College. The match remaining scoreless through regulation and overtime before the Cyclones prevailed 4-3 on penalty kicks. Senior Molly Barry, South Side’s sixth shooter, delivered the golden PK goal and immediately jumped into the waiting arms of senior goalkeeper Abby Gruner, who not only made two dynamic PK saves but also scored. “Our team is honored to be among the first programs featured on the new South Side athletic sign,” soccer coach Judi Croutier said. “We capped off our season by winning the program’s 30th Nassau County championship. This is a milestone we do not take lightly.” It was the Cyclones’ second post-OT win in four

Courtesy Patrick Maguire

The South Side girls’ soccer team was honored during the Dec. 22 ceremony at the championship recognition sign site after winning its third county title in five seasons. days. Brooke Doreste, Maddie Woo, Natalie Cammalleri and Katori Martin all converted penalty kicks in the semifinals against MacArthur while Gruber made two key stops. Twenty days later, the girls’ volleyball team achieved an even larger accomplishment by capturing the New York State Class A championship, the program’s first in 32 years. “That was awesome,” volleyball coach Steve Mariano said of the ceremony. “It was definitely an honor and definitely we won’t forget to be one of the first new years up on that board. It was nice to see that sense of accomplishment to see your group’s year under something, especially if it’s a state championship.”

South Side advanced to the state finals in Glens Falls after navigating a demanding postseason against top competition. The Cyclones outlasted Half Hollow Hills West in five sets to win the Long Island Class A title on Nov. 12, then rallied to defeat Rye in four sets in the Class A Southeast Regional final on Nov. 15 after dropping the opening set. In the championship match against Williamsville South, the Cyclones emerged victorious in a five-set battle, showcasing depth, consistency and resilience over the course of the match. The win capped a season defined by strong team play and mental toughness, as South Side repeatedly responded to momentum swings on the state’s biggest stage.

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As we welcome a fresh start in 2026 I want to take a moment and extend my heartfelt wishes for a year filled with health, joy and success. If one of your New Year’s resolutions is finding a new home or selling your current one, I am here to guide you every step of the way.

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The Grand Pavilion for Nursing & Rehab at RVC will endeavor to make reasonable accommodations to enable qualified applicants and/or employees with known physical or mental disabilities/limitations perform the essential functions of the job, unless if doing so would result in an undue hardship to the Facility.

Happy New Year

BRiNgiNg local spoRts home eVeRY weeK

spotlight athlete

HERALD SPORTS

South Side optimistic on the mat By DYLAN BUTLER sports@liherald.com

jUsTiN oRTiz Hewlett Senior Basketball ORTIZ ADDED HIS name to Hewlett boys’ basketballl lore Dec. 26 by becoming the eighth player in program history to reach 1,000 career points. He entered the game needing 27 for the milestone and accomplished the feat in the third quarter. A third-year starter with a pair of All-County seasons under his belt, Ortiz averaged 17 points per game as a sophomore and 18.8 last season with 63 threes to rank among Nassau’s leaders.

games to watch Thursday, Jan. 8 Girls Basketball: Carey at Sewanhaka............... 4:30 p.m. Boys Basketball: Sewanhaka at Carey .............. 4:30 p.m. Girls Basketball: Seaford at Lawrence............... 6:45 p.m. Girls Basketball: Plainedge at Kennedy............. 6:45 p.m. Girls Basketball: Calhoun at Long Beach .......... 6:45 p.m. Girls Basketball: Clarke at South Side .............. 6:45 p.m. Boys Basketball: South Side at Clarke .............. 6:45 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 9 Boys Basketball: V.S. South at V.S. North................ 5 p.m. Boys Basketball: Lawrence at Seaford ................... 5 p.m. Boys Basketball: Carle Place at West Hemp........... 5 p.m. Girls Basketball: Mineola at Lynbrook ............... 6:45 p.m. Girls Basketball: V.S. South at V.S. North ........... 6:45 p.m. Girls Basketball: Hicksville at Oceanside .......... 6:45 p.m. Boys Basketball: Island Trees at Malverne.............. 7 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 10 Boys Basketball: Division at Mepham .............11:45 a.m. Girls Basketball: Syosset at Baldwin ...............11:45 a.m. Girls Basketball: East Meadow at F-Dale ........11:45 a.m. Girls Basketball: Freeport at V.S. Central .........11:45 a.m. Boys Basketball: Uniondale at Massapequa .......... 1 p.m. Boys Basketball: Baldwin 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.

For South Side wrestling this season, it’s a case of quality over quantity. “I told the kids at the beginning of the season, I said, ‘listen, we may not have a lot of guys, we may not have a lot of backups,’” head coach Mike Robinson said. “But if everyone stays healthy, I think we could potentially be a playoff team.” That’s one of the goals for the Cyclones, along with getting seven or eight wrestlers to qualify for the Section 8 Division I Wrestling Championships and potentially four All-County selections. If early-season results are an indicator, South Side may check all those boxes. The Cyclones placed second behind Chaminade at the Frank Giampaolo Cyclone Tournament at South Side on Dec. 20. It was a tournament that included division rival Lynbrook, Poly Prep, Long Beach and Oceanside. “That’s the first time in probably a very long time where we actually medaled as far as the team is concerned, so the kids performed outstandingly all day,” Robinson said. “I think this is definitely going to boost our confidence for the next tour nament and the next event.” As the No. 4 preseason seed, Robinson knows the Cyclones will need to knock off one of the teams ahead of them — Wantagh, Plainedge or Lynbrook — to qualify for the postseason. That’s another attainable goal, Robinson believes, especially with South Side finishing ahead of Lynbrook at the Frank Giampaolo Cyclone Tournament after a tight 48-35 defeat to Wantagh. Leading the way for South Side is Frank DiBenedetto, a sophomore who is currently ranked No. 5 in the county at 175 pounds. He was named his team’s Most Outstanding Wrestler at the Frank Giampaolo Cyclone Tournament. DiBenedetto’s partner in the South Side wrestling room is Lenny Budden, a junior who will likely move down to 165

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Casey Testa, top, captured first place at 132 pounds in the Frank Giampaolo Cyclone Tournament. to help balance the Cyclones roster. “He’s one of those kids who is gritty, intense, strong, and in practice, those two go back and forth with each other all the time,” Robinson said. Senior CJ Brower, who wrestles at 150, is one of the captains, along with fellow seniors Josh Feigenbaum and Donovan Sherwood at 157. And then there’s Benjamin Yin, who was brought up last winter as a seventh grader. He took third at 118 in the Frank Giampaolo Cyclone Tournament and the Sprig Gardner Tournament earlier in December. Robinson said sophomores Nick Soni-

tis, who wrestles at 126 pounds and reached his first final at the Cyclone Tour nament, and Casey Testa, who placed first at 132 pounds, have made the biggest improvements from last year. And when you add in juniors Richie Lanciers at 138 pounds, Ryan Perry at 144, and Pat Donovan at 215 as well as senior Jacob Arias and junior Tiernan Ferrick at 285, there’s good reason for optimism at South Side this year. “We don’t have the big numbers, but the guys we have are quality, so I think we’re doing a pretty good job this year,” Robinson said.

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January 8, 2026 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — January 8, 2026

Dear RVC Baseball/Softball Community Registration for the Spring 2026 season is now open for boys and girls in grades K-9. Visit our website to register - www.rvclittleleague.org The division for which your child is eligible will automatically populate based on their birth date. Registration will close on February 17, 2026. New Players: All new players to the league must register in person at the RVC Recreation Center (111 N. Oceanside Rd) on either Saturday, January 10th (9am-noon), or Wednesday, January 14th (6pm-9pm). You will be required to provide a birth certiﬁcate and proof of residency. Cost: The registration cost per player is $200. (excluding Sluggers and Kickball) Early Bird Discount: Players who are registered by January 10, 2026, will receive a $20.00 discount. If you are registering both a returning player and a new player to the league, register the returning player online (to get the early bird discount) and then mention to the Little League staff during in-person new player registration that you already have a child registered in the system to obtain the multi-player family discount (see below). Sibling Discount: Families that have multiple players will receive a multi-player family discount ($10.00 for 2nd player, $20.00 for 3rd player, 4th or more is free) Late Fee: Any registrations completed after registration closes on February 17, 2026, will be charged an additional $50.00 per player. Late registrations are not guaranteed a spot as we cap the number of players per team for safety reasons. Schedule: The season will start for most divisions on March 23, 2026, with the younger divisions beginning several weeks thereafter (Sluggers Baseball/Kickball and Munchkins Softball are expected to start near the end of April). The following are the current anticipated schedules for each division, which remain tentative and subject to change:

Kickball: Sunday mornings Baseball: 6-year-old Sluggers: Mort Geller 7’s:

Sunday clinics- late morning/early afternoon Practice/Games- Tuesday evening or Thursday evening and Saturday late morning/early afternoon Mort Geller 8’s: Practice/Games- Monday evening or Wednesday evening and Saturday morning Minors Baseball 9’s: Practices- coaches’ discretion Games- one weeknight (varies) and Saturday (time varies) American League 10-11’s: Practices- coaches’ discretion Games- One weeknight Tue- Thurs and Saturday (time varies) National League 11-12’s: Practices- coaches’ discretion Games- One weeknight Tue- Thurs and Saturday Seniors 13-16’s: Practices- coaches’ discretion (ages 13-16) Games- one weeknight and one weekend (days/times vary) Softball: Munchkins 5-6’s: Machine Pitch 7-8’s: Minors 9-10’s: Majors 11-12’s: Juniors 13-14’s:

Practice Clinics- Thursday evening Games- Sunday afternoon Practice Clinics- Wednesday evening Games- Monday evening and Saturday mid-morning/early afternoon Practices- coaches’ discretion Games- Tuesday evening and Sunday mid-morning/early afternoon Practices- coaches’ discretion Games- one weeknight and one weekend (days/times vary) Practices- coaches’ discretion Games- one weeknight and one weekend (days/times vary)

Ages for the 2026 Season: Baseball - age is based on the player’s age as of 8/31/2026 Softball - age is based on the player’s age as of 12/31/2025 Note: “Playing up” is prohibited by charter

Happy Holidays, RVC Little League Board of Directors

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We are looking forward to another great Little League season!

Your HealtH and Wellness — with a focus on neW You for tHe neW Year

Go the distance Timeless habits for better health By Francesca Coltrera A veritable avalanche of influencers, news headlines, and well-meaning friends and family offer conflicting advice on wellness. If you’re overwhelmed by fads and hype around wellness, read on. Dr. Wynne Armand, a primary care physician at Harvard-affiliated Mass General Brigham health care, recommends simple habits to boost health and wellness in everyday life. Quick fixes and fads may do little for our health, and some even prove harmful. Try to work healthy habits into your daily routines. If you’re a parent, sharing and modeling them can help children and teens embrace wellness, too. Bring mindfulness into your day Mindfulness and meditation are overlapping techniques proven to ease stress, improve sleep, and enhance concentration. “Anxiety and stress are very common issues in my practice,” says Armand. Worrying too often about the past or future is rarely helpful. The too-frequent release of stress hormones affects our heart, brain, and sleep, all of which have downstream consequences for our health. Practicing mindfulness — whether simply by appreciating birds and plants on a walk in green space, or using apps like Calm and Headspace — anchors you in the present moment. This can calm anxiety, improve focus and concentration, and amp up positive feelings. When applied to eating, mindfulness may help with weight loss by encouraging people to slow down to savor meals. Meditation knits together body and mind by focusing

on sensations, such as breathing, images, or a repeated word or phrase. One exercise that works equally well for adults and younger people is box breathing. The rhythmic pattern of breathing helps regulate the nervous system, reining in anxiety and stress, lowering heart rate and blood pressure, and boosting focus. The rhythmic pattern of breathing helps regulate the nervous system, reining in anxiety and stress, lowering heart rate and blood pressure, and boosting focus. Prioritize sleep Sleeping poorly can leave you feeling awful — snappish, foggy-headed, slow moving — and take a toll on your health over time. By contrast, getting sufficient, restful sleep supports the immune system, helps control weight, and aids physical well-being, mental well-being, memory, judgment,

and other cognitive functions. It may even extend longevity. But how much sleep do you need? That varies with age and other factors: most adults need at least seven hours per night, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, sleep quality (a measure of refreshing, uninterrupted sleep versus tossing and turning) may be more important than nailing seven hours. And it’s worth noting that too much sleep — nine hours or more in one analysis of multiple studies — is linked to higher risk for early deaths, too. Be aware that sleep patterns and circadian rhythms that help rule sleep and wakefulness change over time. Good sleep hygiene can help. Tips include getting regular exercise, setting regular bedtime and wake-up times and turning off screens at least 30 minutes before going to bed. Eat real, whole foods A wealth of evidence shows that diets rich in vegetables, fruits, legumes and pulses like lentils, peas, and beans, and minimally processed foods support longevity and vitality. Plant-based and plant-forward diets are better for our health: research links them to lower rates of heart disease, certain cancers, and chronic illnesses like diabetes and obesity. They’re better for the planet, too. Move more, sit less The hurry of life often short-circuits opportunities to be active. So, swap out the thought “What saves me time?” for a healthier one: “What keeps me mobile, flexible, and functioning well within my world?” Polishing off exercise requirements through a 30-minute block once daily is great, but you may reap even greater health benefits if you seek out ways to stay active throughout the day. Photo: Adopting a healthier way of life moves us beyond quick fixes and fads

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January 8, 2026 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

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he only skilled nursing facility in Oceanside, Oceanside Care Center is a 100-bed rehabilitation and nursing center that has been a part of the community’s fabric for more than 50 years. Their unique approach allows them to provide patient-centered care in a way that no other facility can. OCC specializes in an array of different services, from short-term rehab to long-term care. Oceanside Care Center provides unrivaled residentcentered care. Under the guidance of the highly skilled, professional staff, the team customizes a care plan matched to specific needs and abilities. The nursing team consists of registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and certified nursing assistants who are driven to build warm and compassionate bonds with residents. The unique and intimately sized facility attracts many residents who enjoy a meaningful relationship forged between devoted staff members, residents and their families. Many staff members have worked at Oceanside Care Center for over

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — January 8, 2026

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January 8, 2026 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

Jeruzelski Goy/Herald photos

Candidates for the nursing program take their seats in the auditorium, ready to receive their pins at the Molloy University graduation ceremony on Dec. 18.

Nursing pinning marks milestone for grads Molloy University’s Barbara H. Hagan School of Nursing and Health Sciences honored 91 graduating students at its annual nursing pinning ceremony, held at the Madison Theatre in the Public Square Building on the university’s Rockville Centre campus. The ceremony marked the students’ transition from nursing education to professional practice. “I’ve always had a passion for helping people and now I am so excited to finally be out in the field and help save lives,” said graduating nursing student Alexa Kourkoumelis. The pinning ceremony, a longstanding tradition within the nursing profession, symbolizes the completion of rigorous academic training and the beginning of a lifelong commitment to compassionate and ethical patient care. Molloy University’s nursing pin, designed by the program’s first graduating class, reflects the institution’s mission and heritage. The Dec. 18 ceremony featured congratulatory remarks from university and School of Nursing leadership, a blessing of the pins, and the formal presentation of pins to graduates, who also recited the International Code of Ethics Pledge for Nurses. Rooted in traditions dating back to the 12th century, the nursing pin traces its history to honors awarded to caregivers and to Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. Graduates concluded the ceremony expressing excitement as they prepare to enter a healthcare workforce with a strong demand for skilled and compassionate professionals. –Brian Kacharaba

Nursing candidates proudly proceed into the Molloy University pinning ceremony at the Madison Theatre, marking a significant milestone in their journey toward becoming registered nurses.

Chloesha Bellanger, left, shared her memorable day with mom Scarline.

Lorraine Emeghebo, EdD, RN, an associate professor of nursing, shared the significance of the pinning ceremony with the graduating class.

Jennifer Petruccelli, center, celebrated a significant milestone in her nursing journey with her children, Charlotte and Damiano, following the pinning ceremony at Molloy University.

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KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION

2026/2027

#GameOnRVC #LikeACyclone KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION LETTERS WERE MAILED TO ROCKVILLE CENTRE SCHOOL DISTRICT PARENTS WHO HAVE A CHILD WHO WILL BE 5 YEARS OLD ON OR BEFORE DECEMBER 1, 2026. IF YOU HAVE NOT RECEIVED THE LETTER, PLEASE CALL THE REGISTRAR’S OFFICE AT 255-8926 SO YOUR CHILD CAN BE ADDED TO OUR LIST.

IN PERSON REGISTRATION WILL TAKE PLACE AT SOUTH SIDE HIGH SCHOOL 140 SHEPHERD STREET, ROOM 1413 PRIOR TO IN PERSON REGISTRATION YOU WILL NEED TO COMPLETE REGISTRATION FORMS ONLINE January 12, 2026

8 AM - 11:50 AM 1 PM - 4 PM

A–L M–Z

HEWITT

January 13, 2026

8 AM - 11:50 AM 1 PM - 4 PM

A–L M–Z

WATSON

January 14, 2026

8 AM - 11:50 AM 1 PM - 4 PM

A–L M–Z

WILSON

January 15, 2026

8 AM - 11:50 AM 1 PM - 4 PM

A–L M–Z

RIVERSIDE

January 16, 2026

8 AM - 12 PM

A–Z

SCAN

ME!

Please register your child for Kindergarten online by visiting www.rvcschools.org > Registration > Kindergarten 2026-2027 Registration In person registration will take place the week of January 12th. You must register your child online to attend!

Courtesy Carol Ruchalski

Charlie prizzi accepts a grant from Carol ruchalski, founder of the mary ruchalski foundation, on behalf of dr. Chris Vakoc of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory.

Foundation issues grants to support cancer research Continued from page 1 1328657

COVERT

INSCRIPCIÓN EN KINDERGARTEN

2026/2027

#GameOnRVC #LikeACyclone LAS CARTAS DE INSCRIPCIÓN PARA KINDERGARTEN SE ENVIARON POR CORREO A LOS PADRES DE ROCKVILLE CENTRE SCHOOL DISTRICT QUE TIENEN UN HIJO QUE CUMPLIRÁ 5 AÑOS EL 1 DE DICIEMBRE DE 2026 O ANTES. SI NO HA RECIBIDO LA CARTA, LLAME A LA OFICINA DE REGISTRO AL 255-8926 PARA QUE SU HIJO PUEDA SER AGREGADO A NUESTRA LISTA.

LA INSCRIPCIÓN PRESENCIAL SE REALIZARÁ EN SOUTH SIDE HIGH SCHOOL 140 SHEPHERD STREET, AULA 1413 ANTES DE LA INSCRIPCIÓN EN PERSONA, DEBERÁ COMPLETAR LOS FORMULARIOS DE INSCRIPCIÓN EN LÍNEA

COVERT

12 de ENERO, 2026

8 AM - 11:50 AM 1 PM - 4 PM

A–L M–Z

HEWITT

13 de ENERO, 2026

8 AM - 11:50 AM 1 PM - 4 PM

A–L M–Z

WATSON

14 de ENERO, 2026

8 AM - 11:50 AM 1 PM - 4 PM

A–L M–Z

WILSON

15 de ENERO, 2026

8 AM - 11:50 AM 1 PM - 4 PM

A–L M–Z

RIVERSIDE

16 de ENERO, 2026

8 AM - 12 PM

A–Z

ESCANEARME

Por favor, inscriba a su hijo para Kindergarten en línea visitando: www.rvcschools.org > Registration > Kindergarten 2026-2027 Inscripción Las inscripciones presenciales se realizarán la semana del 12 de Enero. Debe registrar a su hijo en línea para asistir.

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January 8, 2026 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

source of support for both researchers and families affected by childhood cancer. “It’s just such a nice way to honor Mary’s memory and keep up our campaign of raising awareness and helping families,” her mother said. “The money comes in and then we’re immediately helping people.” In addition to supporting research, the foundation also prioritized direct assistance to families affected by pediatric cancer. In 2025 it provided $20,000 in financial aid to five national families to help ease the burden of medical expenses and related costs. “It’s amazing how many cancer families come to us for help,” Ruchalski said. “It just keeps us going to say that, ‘Yes, we need to find a cure, we need to find better treatment.’ That’s basically what our drive is for the year.” Since its founding, the foundation has raised nearly $1.2 million, much of it from annual community-driven events such as Play 4 Mary, the Mary Cup and the Light the Way campaign, all of which have become fixtures in Rockville Centre and surrounding towns. One of Carol Ruchalski’s most meaningful moments of 2025 occurred during a visit to South Side High School, where she spoke to students and staff about her daughter and the foundation’s mission. “A teacher said to me, ‘I feel like I know Mary from you,’” she recounted. “That was very heartwarming, and that was my goal — that people wouldn’t forget her, and that people would know her and what a wonderful person she was.” The foundation maintains a close partnership with the Rockville Centre community, including the local school district. South Side High School’s Wellness Club has supported the organization through volunteer work and fundraising initiatives. “We put lights outside the school, and

every light is about $5, and it’s a donation that the kids make and then all the teachers make,” Liz Marshall, a South Side phys. ed. teacher, explained. “We do it for her. Over the years it just evolved into such a beautiful thing, with the amount of kids and the amount of teachers that donate.” Beyond fundraising, the Wellness Club has helped promote pediatric cancer awareness by distributing yellow shoelaces to athletic teams during Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month in September. Club members also bagged more than 100 Roku devices collected by the foundation, which were donated to children undergoing cancer treatment. Resident Jaime Madden, an early volunteer who helped launch the Light the Way campaign, has remained closely involved with the organization. For the campaign, residents purchase gold lanterns and bows to display outside their homes throughout September in honor of pediatric cancer awareness. “Volunteering for the foundation has been a tremendous blessing,” Madden wrote to the Herald. “I really believe that the foundation is making a huge impact in so many ways; raising money for a cure which I pray I see in my lifetime, raising awareness to drive more funding to pediatric cancer, and bringing the community together in so many different ways.” Ruchalski said that the focus in 2026 would be on expanding outreach and increasing awareness beyond the Rockville Centre area. “I’m really going to try to expand our message to other communities,” she said. “I’d love to get into another community that’s not familiar with Mary and the foundation, and talk about what we do and expand our place. I think that would be a really big step for us.” For more information about the found at i o n a n d i t s wo rk , v i s i t T h e MaryRuchalskiFoundation.org.

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — January 8, 2026

THANKS TO THE CONGESTION RELIEF PROGRAM, NEW YORK IS ON THE MOVE! One year of the congestion relief program means real results for Long Island. Commute times are down 22% from the LIE to the Queens-Midtown Tunnel— meaning less time wasted in traffic and more time back in your day. [SOURCE: Newsday, 8/6/25]

$500 million in transit improvements this year. [SOURCE: CBS News]

$1.5 billion-dollar LIRR funding increase coming down the track.

Learn more PAID FOR BY THE ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENSE FUND

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Long Island is moving forward thanks to 365 days of the congestion relief program.

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January 8, 2026 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — January 8, 2026

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Courtesy SIBSPlace

Children gathered with Santa Claus in front of a Rockville Centre fire truck during SIBSPlace’s annual holiday event.

This holiday season, 15 Long Island businesses and organizations partnered with SIBSPlace, a Rockville Centre-based nonprofit, to bring holiday cheer to children coping with family illness and loss. Through the annual Adopt-A-SIBSKid program, more than 100 children received personalized gifts from their holiday wish lists during a special event held at SIBSPlace. The Adopt-A-SIBS-Kid program allows local businesses and community members to adopt individual children and provide them with gifts, ensuring each child receives something meaningful for the holidays. For many families facing emotional and financial challenges, these gifts represented the largest presents their children received this season. “We are grateful to our generous community for helping make this event possible,” said Joanna For mont, a licensed mental health counselor and executive director of SIBSPlace. “The Adopt-A-SIBS-Kid Holiday Party not only gave children gifts, but it also created a sense of support and connection, helping families feel less isolated during difficult times.” Participating businesses and organizations included Hewlett High School

student council and basketball team, Morgan Stanley, VIP Auto Group, Let Your Light So Shine, Kiki Christmas PJs, The Little Doll Studio, the RVC Recreation Center, Pure Barre Oceanside, Jerry and Nancy Bloomberg, the Freeport Police Department, the Love, Ava Project, and members of the Seawane Club. These groups worked together to fulfill the holiday wish lists of children in need, celebrating both Christmas and Hanukkah. The gift presentation took place during SIBSPlace’s annual holiday party, where families enrolled in its programs gathered for a festive celebration. Santa Claus, assisted by the Rockville Centre Fire De par tment, made a special appearance to deliver holiday cheer to the children. SIBSPlace provides mental health services, peer support, and family programming to children who are dealing with the loss or illness of a family member. The Adopt-A-SIBS-Kid program helps create a sense of normalcy for children during a season that can be especially difficult for those facing such challenges.

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First meeting of ‘26 highlights sports, raffle, and new eatery By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

Rockville Centre’s Board of Trustees opened 2026 with their first meeting on Jan. 5 at Village Hall, celebrating recent community accomplishments while outlining new plans and priorities for the year ahead. The session set a forward-looking tone, signaling a year of action, transparency, and initiatives to enhance village life for all residents. The next meeting is scheduled for Feb. 9.

Soccer, volleyball championship teams recognized

Big cash prize awaits lucky winner of raffle

The South Side High School girls’ soccer and volleyball teams were honored for their outstanding fall seasons. The soccer team captured its third Nassau County title in five years on Nov. 2, edging Garden City 4-3 in a dramatic penalty-kick shootout following a scoreless regulation and overtime. Just twenty days later, the volleyball team achieved a historic milestone by winning its first New York State Class A championship in 32 years, capping an impressive postseason run. Cross-country standout Fayola Allison, who claimed the Nassau Class II individual championship, was also recognized for her exceptional accomplishments, highlighting another remarkable sports season for South Side athletics.

Rockville Centre Chamber of Commerce President Ed Asip announced the launch of the “Holiday Big 300 50/50 Raffle,” giving participants the chance to win a cash prize of up to $10,000. Tickets are $100 each, with only 300 available, making the odds especially exciting for entrants. The winning ticket will be drawn on Jan. 28 at MacArthur Park during the chamber’s monthly general meeting. Participants not only have a chance to win big but also contribute to the continued growth and beauty of the Rockville Centre community. The majority of proceeds from the raffle will benefit the Rockville Centre Beautification Council, helping fund projects and events that promote local businesses and enhance the village.

New Latin fusion restaurant planned for village Milton Hernandez, an architectural designer with Gesture Ink Architecture, presented detailed exterior renderings for a new Latin fusion restaurant planned at 35–37 S. Park Ave., a space formerly occupied by Lux and Giftology. The design showcased a modern, vibrant facade intended to complement the neighborhood while giving the restaurant a unique identity. During the review, the board of trustees voted to approve the project, though Trustee Emilio Grillo dissented, expressing concern that the design would look “completely different than every other storefronts on the street.” With the board’s approval, the project is now cleared to move forward, bringing a new dining option to the area.

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January 8, 2026 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

things to know: Village Board meeting

STEPPING OUT

Fettucine with Brussels Sprouts and Cranberries

Hearty Beef Stew with Roasted Vegetables

Rustic Roasted Winter Vegetable Chowder

New year, fresh flavors Your kitchen beckons By Karen Bloom

he holidays may be behind us, but winter’s cozy rhythm is in full force. January invites us to nest at home and gather in the kitchen, where comforting, flavorful dishes warm both body and spirit — and gently set the tone for healthier habits in the new year. It’s the perfect time to experiment “Top Chef”–style, playing with bold flavors and seasonal ingredients. After all, few pleasures rival a hearty, nourishing meal shared on a cold winter evening.

additional 1-2 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed. (If pasta is too dry, add reserved cooking water a tablespoon at a time.) Season with salt and pepper and serve garnished with Parmesan cheese and reserved bacon.

Consider adding these recipes to your repertoire.

• 1 cup cubed butternut squash • 1 cup cubed carrots • 1 cup cubed parsnips • 1 cup cubed sweet potatoes • 1 cup cubed onion • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided • 1 1/2 pounds boneless beef sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes • 3/4 cup chicken stock • 3 bay leaves • 1/2 teaspoon thyme leaves • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, coarsely ground • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/4 cup dry red wine Preheat oven to 425°F. Toss vegetables with 1 tablespoon of the oil. Arrange in single layer on large baking sheet. Roast 20 minutes or until vegetables are golden brown. Meanwhile, heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil in large skillet on medium-high heat. Brown beef in batches. Return all beef to skillet. Add roasted vegetables, stock, wine, salt, pepper, thyme and bay leaves. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low; simmer 10 minutes or until sauce is slightly thickened. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Fettucine with Brussels Sprouts and Cranberries A satisfying plate of pasta is especially welcoming on a cold winter day. • 4 slices bacon (approximately), cut into 1/2-inch pieces • 2 cups (about 12 ounces) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and vertically halved • 1 medium onion, sliced • 1 cup chicken broth • 1⁄4 cup dry vermouth • 1⁄2 cup dried cranberries, coarsely chopped • 6 ounces fettuccine (or another long pasta like spaghetti) • 2 ounces. Parmesan cheese, coarsely shredded • Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste Slowly cook bacon in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat until fat is rendered and bacon is crisp, about 7 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels; set bacon aside. Increase heat to medium-high, arrange Brussels sprouts cut-side down in the rendered bacon fat and cook, without stirring, until sprouts begin to crisp and brown on the cut face, about 2 minutes. Add the onion and toss to combine with the sprouts; cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the broth, vermouth, and dried cranberries, scraping up any fond from the bottom of the skillet, and bring to a fast simmer. Cover, reduce heat to medium, and cook until the sprouts soften, about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, cook the pasta until just al dente, reserving 1/4 cup of the cooking water. Transfer pasta to the skillet with the sprouts and liquid and toss continuously over medium-high heat for an

Hearty Beef Stew with Roasted Vegetables This classic stick-to-your-ribs stew is a terrific winter warmer-upper, served with a hearty bread or corn bread.

Rustic Roasted Winter Vegetable Chowder A rustic, flavorful soup can be flavorful centerpiece to healthy, satisfying meal. This filling soup is packed with vegetables. • 1/2 small butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch dice (about 2 cups) • 3 medium parsnips, peeled, cut into 1-inch dice (about 1 cup ) • 1 medium sweet potato, peeled, cut into 1-inch dice (about 1 cup) • 2 medium carrots, peeled, cut into 1-inch dice

(about 1 cup) • 1/2 fennel bulb, quartered & sliced thin (about 1 cup) • 1/2 teaspoon plus 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt or coarse sea salt • 2 tablespoons plus 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided • 1 medium onion, diced (about 2 cups) • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour • 4 cups vegetable broth • 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled, cut into 3/4inch dice (about 2 cups) 4-5 fresh thyme sprigs • 1 cup milk or unsweetened plain almond milk • Additional salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste • More pepper and thyme leaves for garnish Heat oven to 400 F. In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash, parsnips, sweet potatoes, carrots, and fennel with 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt. Spread in a single layer on a large baking sheet and roast until tender and browned in places, about 40 minutes, turning a couple of times while roasting. While the veggies are roasting, prepare the base of the soup. To a large saucepan over low heat, add 3 tablespoons olive oil. Add the onion along with a pinch of salt and a bit of pepper, then cook, stirring occasionally, until soft, about 10 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for 3 minutes, stirring constantly. Stir in the vegetable broth. Add the potatoes and thyme. Bring to a boil over medium heat then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes or until potatoes are soft. Remove from heat. Pick out the thyme stems and discard. Stir in the roasted vegetables. Carefully transfer about 3 cups of the chowder to the pitcher of a blender. Puree until smooth. Return the pureed mixture to the pot and stir to combine. The soup should be thick, rich, and creamy. Stir in the milk. Place the pot back on the burner, and, with the heat on medium-low, return to a simmer, stirring often to prevent burning. Taste and add additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve garnished with an additional turn of cracked pepper and thyme leaves.

Hailed by Rolling Stone as the “world’s premier soft-rock party band,” Yacht Rock Revue invites audiences on a nostalgic voyage through the melodies of the ‘70s and ‘80s. Since their humble beginnings in 2007, Atlanta, Ga.-based YRR has emerged as a pivotal figure in revitalizing yacht rock, sharing stages with icons and garnering a devoted following of “Anchorheads.” Inspired by soft rock’s golden era, the 10-piece band has mastered the art of recreating the breezy laid-back tunes that defined a generation. From the sun-kissed melodies of Steely Dan and Michael McDonald to Hall & Oates’ velvety harmonies, their repertoire spans beloved hits that evoke memories of palm trees, ocean breezes and carefree summers. But Yacht Rock Revue isn’t just a tribute band. Their original compositions are a modern ode to the genre, capturing the essence of those bygone days while infusing it with a fresh and invigorating twist.

Thursday through Saturday, Jan. 8-10, 8 p.m. $82, $60.25, $49.25 $37.25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

V is for Violet Families are welcome to Nassau County Museum of Art for a special storytime with children’s author Valerie Goldstein. During the interactive reading of her inspiring picture book “Violet’s Victory!”, young audiences will follow Violet — a determined girl with lavender hair — as she discovers her inner strength, perseverance as she chases her dreams. Violet wants to participate in Sports Day at her school. She walks with crutches for support, which she calls her “magic sticks.” Violet knows she will not be able to keep up with her classmates using crutches. Then she spots a purple handcycle! With determination and perseverance she participates in Sports Day. Every hue of purple is mentioned and makes for a perfect art connection. Following the reading, children and caregivers can meet the author during a book signing and participate in a handson craft inspired by Violet’s journey. Designed to spark imagination and open the door to meaningful conversations, the session celebrates resilience, self-belief and the joy of trying something new. Saturday, Jan. 10, 1:30-3 p.m. $20 adult, $10 members and children. Register at nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337.

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — January 8, 2026

Yacht Rock Revue

January 8, 2026 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD JAN

New Year’s Party

CALENDAR With opening weekend activities to celebrate the arrival of this traveling exhibit. • Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

Welcome 2026 by celebrating New Year’s at the Sandel Senior Center. Chicken piccata will be served for lunch. Entertainment by Greg Parr gets everyone on the dance floor to ring in the New Year. $10 per person.

JAN

• Where: 50 S. Park Ave., Rockville Centre • Time: 12:15 p.m. • Contact: (516) 678-9350

JAN

Lil’ athletes

Introduce your child to the world of sports with Lil’ Athletes at the Rockville Centre Public Library. This fun, hands-on program helps children explore different sports and learn basic skills in a supportive environment. Registration required. Children in grades three and under must have an adult present in the building at all times. • Where: 221 North Village Ave., Rockville Centre • Time: 10:30 a.m. • Contact: rvclibrary.org or (516) 766-6257

‘Violet’s Victory’

Families are invited to Nassau County Museum of Art for a special story time with children’s author Valerie Goldstein, who shares her inspiring picture book Violet’s Victory! Follow Violet, a determined young girl with lavender hair, as she discovers her strength, perseverance, and the power of adaptive sports on her journey to achieve her dreams. After the reading, meet the author for a book signing and enjoy a fun, hands-on craft inspired by Violet’s story of creativity, courage, and confidence. Children must be accompanied by an adult care giver.; $20 adult, $10 members and children. Advance registration preferred. • Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor • Time: 1:30-3 p.m. • Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

Bar crawl

Join PM Bar Tours for an exciting bar crawl through the village. This guided tour will take you to four of the best local bars and nightclubs, offering a unique and intimate experience compared to city bar tours. Whether you’re flying solo, with friends, or visiting from out of town, this event is perfect for those looking to explore the local nightlife, meet new people, and enjoy fun drinking and dancing games. The night also includes a group photo to capture the

JAN

Paul Cornish Trio

Newly signed to Blue Note Records, Los Angeles-based pianist and composer Paul Cornish is making waves as one of the most innovative new voices in jazz. Presented in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center, Tilles Center Atrium becomes an intimate lounge to showcase this exciting up-and-coming jazz talent. Cornish, who strives to inspire freedom and collaboration in his music and community, has performed extensively across the globe with such notable artists as Joshua Redman, Louis Cole, Mark Guiliana, and more. With Jonathan Pinson (drums) and Jermaine Paul (bass) he’ll perform selections from his Blue Note Records debut album “You’re Exaggerating. “ A Stanford Jazz Workshop alumnus, Cornish blends deep jazz roots with bold, forward-thinking vision, transforming tradition into an electrifying and inspiring musical journey. A standout talent from Houston’s renowned High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, Cornish went on to earn degrees from USC and the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz at UCLA. Now a member of Joshua Redman’s band, he has toured the • Where: LIU Post campus, 720 world and was featured on Redman’s NPR Tiny Desk Concert. “Paul is one of the most Northern Blvd., Brookville innovative pianists to come along in quite a while,” says Blue Note President Don • Time: 7:30 p.m. Was. “He is the next purveyor of that hallowed legacy.” Don’t miss this opportunity to • Contact: tillescenter.org or witness Cornish’s extraordinary artistry and boundless creativity live. (516) 299-3100

memories. • Where: Location revealed after ticket purchase • Time: 9 p.m. • Contact: Pmbartours.com

JAN

Talking art

Nassau County Museum of Art hosts Stanley Lewis with Chief Curator Franklin Perrell. Lewis is a distinguished American painter, teacher, and Guggenheim Fellow known for his richly layered, perceptual works that explore light and place through complex surfaces and on-site observation. His practice is deeply rooted in sustained looking and revision, emphasizing the physical and experiential process of painting. His work has been exhibited widely, including major retrospectives such as at the Katzen Arts Center, and he is represented by the Betty Cuningham Gallery in New York. $20, $15 seniors, $10 students (members free). Limited seating, register in advance. • Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor • Time: 3 p.m. • Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

JAN

Disney on ice Presents Mickey’s Search Party

Enjoy the magic of ‘Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party,’ an actionpacked adventure filled with beloved characters, dazzling skating and immersive storytelling at UBS arena. Mickey and friends journey through exciting worlds as they search for clues, bringing the audience along for an unforgettable, high-energy experience. Perfect for all ages who love Disney magic on ice. • Where: 2400 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont • Time: 7 p.m., through Jan. 19, times vary. • Contact: ticketmaster.com

JAN

Comic showcase

Known for their elite brand of clever comedy, The Ivy League of Comedy visits the Madison Theatre. You’ve heard their brilliant comedic voices on late-night television and Comedy Central and on the club circuit. The lineup features Keith Alberstadt, who’s playful personality radiates on stage. He mixes light-hearted sarcasm with a southern charm and has become a favorite at comedy clubs and theaters. Also Clayton Fletcher,

who’s heard every day on Sirius/ XM Radio’s Laugh USA, Blue Collar Comedy, and Jamie Foxx’s Foxxhole stations. He has been featured on Hulu-TV’s “Comedy Brew,” MSNBC’s “Your Business,” ESPN’s “World Series of Poker,” and Comcast-TV’s “Who’s Laughing Now?” He allows us to see the world through the eyes of the son of a poker-playing mom and a jazz musician dad. And Jane Condon, mom of two boys, has been dubbed “an uppercrust Roseanne.” She loves to tell stories about her adventures (mostly survival tales) with her husband and kids. • Where: Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre • Time: 8 p.m. • Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444

Let Freedom Ring with MLK

Visit Long Island Children’s Museum for a workshop honoring Martin Luther King, Jr. Families will learn about MLK beyond his “I Have a Dream” speech and gain a better understanding of his impact on the civil rights movement. Also participate in a gallery walk of images from that era and then create a bell to “let freedom ring.” The program is part of the AdvoKids monthly series that focuses on teaching kids how to advocate for themselves and others and teaching adults how to support their kids’ advocacy efforts. For ages 5 and up. Free with museum admission, but tickets required. • Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

JAN

‘Anastasia: The Musical’

Molloy Performing Arts Club presents “Anastasia The Musical,” at the Madison Theatre. 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: 100 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre • Time: Jan. 22, 7 p.m.; also Jan. 23, 8 p.m.; Jan. 24, 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. • Contact: MadisonTheatreNY.org or (516) 323-4444

Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out

Long Island Children’s Museum’s welcomes all to the opening of 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.

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

Hogan tabbed to lead St. Patrick’s parade

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — January 8, 2026

Continued from page 1

selection was widely supported by committee members and residents. “There were a lot of people who really pushed for him, in particular because he’s such a strong leader and so involved in the community,” she said. Hogan’s 30-year career in technology and cybersecurity began in sales at EMC. He later founded and sold his first company to HP Exstream then held leadership roles at NetApp before joining Fortinet. He has since served as chief revenue officer at several earlystage cyber companies, including SecurityScorecard, and currently leads Cytactic, an AI-based cyber-incident response management platform. A lifelong advocate for Catholic education, Hogan and his wife, Kate, raised five children in Rockville Centre, all of whom were active in local schools and youth programs. The parade, he said, will be a meaningful moment to share with his family and the community that helped shape their lives. “To me, this is a living walk down memory lane,” Hogan said. “It embodies everything from nursery school through high school, community involvement, Little League and CYO. To share this with my family and the friends we grew up with here is incredibly fulfilling.” Rockville Centre Mayor Francis X. Murray, who served as grand marshal in 2009, praised Hogan’s selection.

Photos courtesy Bill Hogan

Bill Hogan, standing at left, the 2026 rockville Centre St. patrick’s day parade grand marshal, is a longtime supporter of youth sports and CYo programs in the community. “Bill Hogan truly embodies the spirit of Rockville Centre through his service, leadership, and generosity,” Murray said in a statement. “His deep commitment to his family, his profession, and our community makes him an outstanding and well-deserved choice.” First held in 1997, the St. Patrick’s Parade has grown into one of the bestattended parades outside New York City. Each year, the parade committee, a registered nonprofit organization, raises

for the designated charities. One of the more popular ones is the Taste of Rockville Centre, which will return to the St. Agnes Parish Center on Jan. 30, from 7 to 10 p.m. There guests can sample offerings from more than 20 local restaurants and microbreweries, and enjoy wine tastings as well as desserts and coffee. Tickets are $65 in advance (available until noon on Jan. 29) and $75 at the door. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Zeffy.com/en-US/ Ticketing/Taste-of-RVC.

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funds for one local, one national and one Irish charity. Since its inception, the parade has distributed more than $1.8 million to 78 charities. This year’s beneficiaries are Rescuing Families Inc., Nassau County Firefighters’ Operation Wounded Warrior, and Run for Mary— an annual 5K charity run/walk in Ireland held in memory of Mary Prendergast, who passed away from cancer. Leading up to the parade, the committee hosts several fundraising events

Bill Hogan and his wife, Kate, raised five children in rockville Centre.

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Public Notices

Tamika Parsley joyfully holds her newborn daughter, Janiah Thompson, in Mercy Hospital on New Year’s Day.

January 8, 2026 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

LROC1 0108

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. Bank Trust National Association, not in its individual capacity but solely as owner trustee for RCF 2 Acquisition Trust, Plaintiff AGAINST Anne Marie Izzo, Wayne Izzo, et al, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered November 7, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 3, 2026 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 133 Southard Avenue, Rockville Centre, NY 11570. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Rockville Centre, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 38 Block 253 Lot 133. Approximate amount of judgment $637,783.22 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #612633/2022. Michael J. Lange r, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 21-001232 88336 157521 LEGAL NOTICE Notice of Public Meeting Nassau County, New York Meeting Date: January 13, 2026 Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 330 Rockville Centre Village Code NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Board Of the Village of Rockville Centre will hold a Public Work Session in the Eugene J. Murray Village Hall 1 College Place, Rockville Centre at 7:00 p.m. LEGAL NOTICE January 13, 2026 at 7:00 PM Case No.: Case No.: 01-2026 Molloy College (Siena Hall) Extension of Time Request - to modify prior grant to allow permanent occupancy of building in conjunction with the conditions imposed under Planning Board Case 02-2005.

Property Location: 1000 Hempstead Avenue Incorporated Village of Rockville Centre Nassau County, New York PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on this specific date, the Rockville Centre Planning Board will conduct a public hearing to conduct a Site Plan and Exterior Design review for these subject properties. Anyone interested shall have an opportunity to be heard on the application. Dated: January 2, 2026 PLANNING BOARD OF THE VILLAGE OF ROCKVILLE CENTRE, NEW YORK Donna Joyce, Chairperson Casey Murphy, Esq, Board Counsel Patrick D. O’Brien, Corresponding Secretary Information and records for Planning Board Cases are available at 110 Maple Ave, RVC 157661

LEGAL NOTICE Village of Rockville Centre Nassau County, New York Notice of Board of Zoning Appeals Hearing Date: January 14, 2026 Pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 340 Rockville Centre Village Code NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Appeals of the Village of Rockville Centre will hold a Zoning Appeals Hearing at the Eugene J. Murray Village Hall 1 College Place, Rockville Centre at 7:00 p.m. LEGAL NOTICE January 14, 2026 at 7:00 PM Case # 01-2026 - Chris & Dena Boylan To construct an inground pool 14’ X 32’ is a change to an existing nonconforming use which requires approval from the Board of Appeals, and with a proposed impervious lot coverage of 48.5% where 45.0% is the maximum allowable within a Residence A district. Premises known as 165 South Centre Avenue Case # 02-2026 Christopher & Stephanie Cartier To construct a secondstory addition over existing one-story with a proposed side yard setback of 6.7 feet where 8.0 feet is the

minimum required, within a Residence A district. Premises known as 222 South Centre Avenue Case # 03-2026 Daniel & Maureen Schaefer To construct a secondstory rear addition over existing first story with a proposed lot coverage of 34.5% where 30.0% is the maximum allowable, impervious surface coverage of 48% where 45.0% is the maximum allowable, a side yard setback of 6.8 feet where 8.0 feet is the minimum required, aggregate side yards of 11.8 feet where 12.0 feet is the minimum required, and a rear yard setback of 21.3 feet where 25.0 is the minimum within a Residence A district. Premises known as 11 Lawrence Place Case # 04-2026 Stoneville, LLC Renewal of variance for the parking of vehicles in a Residence A District which abuts Business A property pursuant to Case # 32-2024 which states the permit renewal is for a twelve (12) month period. Premises known as 82-96 South Long Beach Road Case # 05-2026 - Nasta & Nasta D/B/A 160 Long Beach Road Realty Company Renewal of variance for the parking of vehicles in a Residence A District which abuts Business A property pursuant to Case # 34-2013 which states the permit renewal is for a three (3) year period. Premises known as 160 North Long Beach Road Dated: December 30, 2025 BOARD OF APPEALS OF THE VILLAGE OF ROCKVILLE CENTRE, Rockville Centre, New York J. Robert Schenone, Chairman Patrick D. O’Brien, Secretary Information and records for appeals cases are available at the Office of the Secretary of the Board of Appeals, 110 Maple Avenue, RVC, NY 157660

PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to:

legalnotices@liherald.com Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232

LEGAL NOTICE Invitation to Bidders BOARD OF EDUCATION Rockville Centre Union Free School District PUBLIC NOTICE: is hereby given for sealed Single Prime Contract bids for: HVAC Replacement at South Side High School. Bids will be received by the School District, on January 22, 2026 at 2:00pm in the District Office, 128 Shepherd Street, Rockville Centre, New York, 11570, and at said time and place publicly opened and read aloud. Beginning January 6, 2026, the Contract Documents may be examined at the Office of the Architect, BBS Architects, Landscape Architects and Engineers, P.C., 244 East Main Street, Patchogue New York, (631-475-0349). Complete digital sets of Contract Documents may be obtained online as a download for a non-refundable fee of One-Hundred ($100.00) Dollars at the following website: bbs.biddyhq.com. Optionally, in lieu of digital copies, hard copies may be obtained through Biddy c/o Lohrius Blueprint, 226 Newtown Road, Plainview, NY 11803 (516-465-2880) upon a deposit of OneHundred ($100.00) Dollars for each complete set. Checks for deposits shall be made payable to the ROCKVILLE CENTRE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT and may be uncertified. All bid addenda will be transmitted to registered plan holders via email and will be available at the above referenced websites. Any bidder requiring documents to be shipped shall make arrangements with the printer and pay for all packaging and shipping costs. Plan holders who have obtained hard copies of the bid documents will need to make the determination if hard copies of the addenda are required for their use, and coordinate directly with the printer for hard copies of addenda to be issued. There will be no charge for registered plan holders to obtain hard copies of the bid addenda. The bid deposit for hard copies will be returned upon receipt of plans and specifications, in good condition, within thirty

Courtesy Catholic Health Mercy Hospital

Mercy Hospital welcomes first baby of the new year Mercy Hospital welcomed a joyful milestone to begin the new year with the birth of its first baby of 2026. Janiah Thompson was born at exactly 4 a.m. on New Year’s Day, marking a sweet and hopeful start to the year for the hospital, her family, and staff. Born to Tamika Parsley and Jorrell Thompson of the Bronx, Janiah’s arrival came unexpectedly. According to hospital officials, the family was traveling in the area when Parsley began going into labor and was transported by ambulance to Mercy, where a prepared medical team was ready to assist. Following her birth, Janiah was photographed in a festive New Year’s– themed setting to commemorate her special arrival. Wrapped in a white swaddle and wearing a soft bow headband, she was surrounded by gold bead garlands,

celebratory party props, and black-andgold decorations symbolizing the start of 2026. The decorations highlighted both the joy of welcoming a newborn and the excitement of the new year. The delivery was supported by Registered Nurse Megan Burgess, who cared for Parsley throughout the labor process and worked closely with Dr. Jay Seraji and the obstetrics team to ensure a safe and smooth delivery for both mother and baby. Hospital staff celebrated the moment as a meaningful tradition, recognizing the birth of the first baby of the year as a symbol of new beginnings and hope. Mercy Hospital cong ratulated the Thompson family and acknowledged the dedication of its labor and delivery team in helping welcome the hospital’s first baby of 2026 into the world.

days after bid date, except for the lowest responsible bidder, whose check will be forfeited upon the award of the contract. The Contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder as long as the bid is responsive and in the School District’s best interests or the proposals will be rejected within 45 days of the date of opening proposals. The School District, however, reserves the right to waive any informalities or irregularities, accept or reject any alternatives, accept any bid in whole or in part, reject any proposals and to advertise for new proposals, if in its opinion the best interest of the School

of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on May 9, 2024 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 11 GRAND AVENUE, ROCKVILLE CENTRE, NY 11570. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Village of Rockville Centre, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 38, Block: 189, Lot: 106. Approximate amount of judgment is $233,022.98 plus

–Brian Kacharaba

Public Notices District will thereby be promoted. Each bidder may not withdraw his bid within 45 days after the formal opening thereof. A bidder may withdraw his bid only in writing and prior to the bid opening date. By Order of: The Board of Education Rockville Centre Union Free School District Dated: January 5, 2026 157662

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, NEWREZ LLC D/B/A SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING, Plaintiff, vs. ARAGANOEM PANCHU, ET AL., Defendant (s). Pursuant to a Judgment

interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 610290/2022. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Mortgagee’s attorney, or the Referee. RONALD FERRARO, Esq., Referee Roach & Lin, P.C., 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 185, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 157313

To place a notice here call us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com

C1 01/08

Employment

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Fax your ad to: 516-622-7460 E-mail your ad to: ereynolds@liherald.com E-mail Finds Under $100 to: sales@liherald.com DEADLINE: Monday, 11:00 am for all classified ads.

Every effort is made to insure the accuracy of your ad. Please check your ad at the first insertion. Credit will be made only for the first insertion. Credit given for errors in ads is limited to the printed space involved. Publisher reserves right to reject, cancel or correctly classify an ad.

BUS NOW HIRING IVERS AND VAN DR The Merrick Before/After School Program is hiring for the 2025-26 school year.

Call (516) 379-4245.

EMPLOYMENT Help Wanted CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE Full Time/Part Time Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to 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

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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

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January 8, 2026 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

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Don’t people understand how important permits are? Q. I notice you write about getting building permits all the time. You would think it was obvious, yet you devote many of your columns to reminding people to get permits. Is this because you find that people don’t already know this? I like the details about buildings that you give, and wish you could write more about that.

A. You would probably be amazed at how often I hear from people wondering if they need a permit for something. Or maybe you wouldn’t. Either way, I started writing this column, which some only see as an advertisement or a blog, in December of 1989, after speaking with a young lady from the Herald who came to speak to my local onte eeper Chamber of Commerce. I was a young architect with a toddler and a kindergartner, both of whom have long since finished college, married and provided my wife, Mindy, and me with grandchildren. When I first spoke to the local editor that day, it was about how I naively started my own practice after leaving an international firm in Manhattan. I realized right away that people are investing the largest amount of what they will ever spend on having a home, and need guidance on how to avoid the pitfalls of shoddy practices, dangerous work done by amateurs and getting ambushed by finding out the work they had done can’t pass a building inspection. She asked me to write a sample column, which wasn’t difficult, since local architects are challenged daily with trying to figure out the best way to get people out of the messes they’re dealing with. I noticed that different building departments had different instruction sheets and different ways of handling the permit process, and that some were extremely helpful, while others basically pushed the responsibility of explaining onto the architect. Some even referred architects, but mostly referred to unlicensed services, which became another problem for many homeowners when plans were incomplete or code-deficient, or where there was only a rubber stamp from an elderly retiree who needed a few extra bucks but wouldn’t be around to answer questions or resolve more technical problems. Basically, the system has no real guidance on whether the most expensive thing homeowners will ever undertake is being done safely, correctly or legally, or whether it will last. I approached bigger building departments about coming up with their own manuals to explain what needs a permit and the best way to get one. Not one, to this day, has either put together such a guide for their department, and not one municipality has ever informed their constituency in one of their newsletters about how important it is to avoid doing things the wrong way, having to go to court, pay a fine, and still have to file for a permit. One government leader even suggested that I write the manual for them. Instead, I write for you. So I try to inform people about how to avoid the hassles for better success — permits and all. Thank you!

Ask The Architect

© 2026 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

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my Goodman, an intrepid journalist and a Long Island native, explained after a recent screening of a documentary about her that she is “committed to independent media being the oxygen to a democratic society.” The documentary “Steal This Story, Please!” had its premier at the DC/DOX film festival in Washington, D.C., in June, and has been shown at other film festivals, at which it has also received awards. And now she was “here on Long Island!” she exclaimed after kArl the documentary grossmAn was featured last month as the opening-night presentation of the Hamptons Doc Fest. Being on Long Island was “really a thrill,” Goodman said following the showing at Bay Street Theater in Sag Harbor. She is a 1975 Bay Shore High School graduate, and after graduating from Harvard with an anthropology degree, she went to work at WBAI, the listener-sponsored radio station in New York City, part of the Pacifica network. It was there that Goodman co-founded and became — and still is — host and

executive producer of “Democracy Now!” It began as a radio program, and subsequently expanded to television, too. Goodman has not only been a journalist on radio and TV, but has authored or co-authored books including “Standing Up to the Madness,” “The Exception to the Rulers,” “The Silenced Majority” and “Democracy Now! Twenty Years Covering the Movements Changing America,” published in 2017. As the website for it then related: “In 1996 Amy Goodman began hosting a show on Pacifica Radio called Democracy Now! to focus on the issues and movements that are too often ignored by the corporate media. Today Democracy Now! is the largest public media collaboration in the U.S., broadcasting on over 1,400 public television and radio stations around the world, with millions accessing it online at democracynow.org.” A documentary is different than a book. I’ve authored books and also written and presented documentaries, and as a journalism professor at SUNY Old Westbury, I taught for years a course called “Documentary: Theories and Techniques.” As John Grierson, the Scottish filmmaker credited with coining the term “documentary” in 1926, explained, a documentary focuses on an “actuality”

— capturing and showcasing the real-life issues of real people, with the “original” people involved, and “original” scenes, conveying a truer picture of reality, he felt, than actors and a set could provide. That’s what the documentary about Goodman does. It starts with her trying to question Wells Griffith, the representative of the first Trump administration at a 2018 United Nations climate conference in Poland. She asks Griffith about President Trump’s claim that climate change is a hoax. Griffith scrambles away up a series of stairways, with Goodman keeping up, and charges her with “harassment.” “A reporter asking you a question,” Goodman responds, “is not harassment.” The documentary then shifts to Goodman’s reporting on the 1991 killing of more than 200 independence protesters in East Timor by Indonesian troops, and shows her and fellow journalist Allan Nairn badly beaten. It includes her arrest, with other journalists, in a police sweep of an anti-war demonstration at the 2008 Republican National Convention in St. Paul, Minn. It presents scenes of Goodman covering Native Americans in Standing Rock, N.D., in 2017, protesting the Dakota Access Pipeline, which brought with it

his 1975 Bay Shore High grad is seen and heard by millions on public media.

the threat of oil spills that could contaminate the Missouri River and the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation’s water supply, as Goodman faced arrest. These are just some of the elements of “Steal This Story, Please!” The archival footage illuminates. The directing, by Carl Deal and Tia Lessin, is superb. The words of Goodman running through it are eloquent. Here’s the description of the documentary in the Hamptons Doc Fest program: “Undeterred by armed soldiers, smooth-talking politicians and riot police, journalist Amy Goodman has reported some of the most consequential stories of our time. ‘Steal This Story, Please!’ is a gripping portrait of Amy, the trailblazer whose unwavering commitment to truth-telling spans three decades of turbulent history. The film is both a call to action and a celebration of resistance, posing the question: What happens to democracy when the press surrenders to power?” In kicking off the 18th year of the Hamptons Doc Fest with the documentary about Goodman, Jacqui Lofaro, the festival’s founder and executive director, spoke of “journalism’s vital role in revealing truth.” Carl Grossman has been an investigative reporter in a variety of media for more than 50 years. He is a professor of journalism at the State University of New York at Old Westbury.

The arts on Long Island are for you

he arts — literature, music, drama, painting, sculpture — form a narrative that helps explain the origins and promises of a society. The arts help us explore our history and imagine our future. While Long Island is well known for health sciences and aerospace technology, it is also a major home for culture — the arts and artists. Think of Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner, F. Scott Fitzgerald and “The Great Gatsby,” Stanford White and the Gold Coast, Harry Chapin, Chuck D roBErT A. and Public Enemy, Adelphi sCoTT Professor Paul Moravec’s Pulitzer Prize for Music, Billy Joel and countless others. We are fortunate to have the Long Island Arts Alliance, a regional arts service organization dedicated to strengthening the arts and arts education across Nassau and Suffolk counties. It does this through advocacy for private and public funding, research into best practices and innovations, programming for people of all ages as well as for performance and

recognition, and promoting collaboration across sectors. LIAA partnered with the Center for an Urban Future to report on the condition of the arts and arts education on Long Island. The report, “Sustaining Long Island’s Creative Spark,” offers important insights. Among them are: ■ Arts and culture employment on Long Island grew 21.8 percent from 2014 to 2024, more than five times the region’s overall job growth.

received about 3.2 percent of awards. Yet Long Island is home to 15 percent of New York’s population. In addition, grants to Long Island arts organizations were about 21 percent lower than the statewide average. So Long Island not only receives a small share of the total; it also receives smaller average awards than the rest of the state. The size of grants to Long Island artists, however, increased about 375 percent over 2024. This reflects a small but targeted pilot program that LIAA ran this year. It acted as a fiscal sponsor and outreach coordinator, met one-on-one with artists, reviewed proposals, and helped first-time applicants navigate the process. LIAA submitted 14 artist applications; nine were funded, and all nine were first-time state grant recipients. The pattern is clear: when Long Island has the support and infrastructure to compete, it can bring in substantially more state funding. Without that support, the region continues to be underrepresented. LIAA is now advocating for Nassau and Suffolk to seed a Long Island grants

hat do F. Scott Fitzgerald and Chuck D have in common? Take a guess.

■ Long Island’s resident artist and design workforce increased to over 10,500, even as the under-65 population declined.

■ Nonprofit arts and culture organizations generate $330 million in annual economic activity on Long Island, supporting 4,905 jobs and $81 million in tax revenue for local, state and federal governments. The center found that Long Island’s arts sector is performing at a high level, but state funding lags. For example, Long Island received about 2.5 percent of the total grant funding awarded, and

academy for the arts. The goal is to build a reliable, long-term pipeline of grant-ready organizations and artists so the region finally gets its fair share of state and federal arts funding. The proposed academy would provide training and coaching for artists and small or midsized nonprofits; offer shared tools, templates and guidance for preparing competitive applications; and deliver cohort-based workshops and one-on-one support tied to the New York State Council on the Arts and other public funds. LIAA is seeking an initial investment of $50,000 from each county to scale this model. The results to date suggest that even this modest local investment can unlock hundreds of thousands of additional state dollars for Long Island’s creative sector. To date, more than 50 organizations and individual artists have indicated support for the grants academy concept. LIAA will continue to advocate for this resource at the county and state level. It is imperative to step up advocacy for Long Island arts, and essential for the LIAA to expand its influence in promoting the value of culture to the community. Robert Scott is president emeritus of Adelphi University and the author of “How University Boards Work.”

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — January 8, 2026

Documenting a formidable L.I. journalist, Amy Goodman

Herald editorial

Rockville centRe

January 8, 2026 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD

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Without January pressure, change works better

very January, we perform the same ritual. We draw a hard line between who we were and who we intend to become, armed with resolutions that sound decisive and hopeful: lose 20 pounds, save more money, finally become more disciplined. And yet, by February, or sooner, many of these goals quietly dissolve. This isn’t a personal failure. It’s a structural one. Traditional goal-setting asks too much of willpower and too little of reality. It assumes that motivation is stable, that life will cooperate, and that change happens neatly within arbitrary timelines. Behavioral research consistently shows the opposite. Willpower fluctuates. Stress, fatigue and unexpected events derail even the most sincere intentions. A goal like “exercise five times a week” collapses the moment work runs late, a child gets sick or winter motivation disappears. The problem isn’t laziness; it’s designing change by focusing on outcomes instead of behavior. Consider the familiar stories of those who set weight-loss goals. For weeks they follow strict rules, track every calorie and push through workouts fueled by January enthusiasm. Then, when the scale stalls or life intervenes, frustration sets in. The goal becomes a source of shame rather than support, and quitting feels inevitable. Contrast this with someone who

builds a simple system instead: walking for 20 minutes after dinner, cooking the same three nourishing meals during the week, keeping snacks visible and convenient. No dramatic target, no deadline, just repeatable behaviors that fit real life. One approach relies on intensity; the other relies on design. The same pattern shows up at work. Professionals set ambitious annual targets — revenue milestones by the third quarter, promotion by December — tying their sense of progress to metrics largely outside their control. When external conditions change, motivation craters. A systems-based approach looks different: a weekly ritual of deep work, a monthly feedback loop, a principle of saying no to low-leverage tasks. These don’t guarantee a promotion, but they dramatically increase clarity, energy and long-term momentum. What replaces resolutions isn’t a lowering of ambition; it’s a smarter framework. Instead of obsessing over outcomes or focusing on inputs, what’s important are the actions you can show up for even on imperfect days. Instead of intensity, prioritize consistency. Ten minutes completed daily beats an hour attempted sporadically. Instead of perfection, build adaptability. Systems that can bend won’t break when life gets messy. This reframing also forces us to rethink what progress means. In 2026, progress doesn’t look like constant

acceleration or public metrics that reward burnout. It looks like sustainability. It looks like habits that support physical and mental health, boundaries that protect attention, and routines that make good choices easier over time. Progress is waking up with less dread. It’s energy that lasts past Wednesday. It’s the ability to course-correct without starting over. The myth of the January fresh start persists because it’s comforting. It promises a clean slate, a dramatic reset. But meaningful change rarely respects the calendar. People quit smoking on random Tuesdays. They start therapy after breaking points, not countdowns. They rebuild routines in April, September or the middle of a chaotic week. When we tie improvement to a date, we also tie failure to missing it. A healthier approach is permissionbased rather than deadline-driven. You can begin again at any point. You can adjust systems without declaring them broken. You can measure progress by how supported you feel, not how perfect your execution looks. This January doesn’t need another list of resolutions destined to expire. It can be a moment to design a life that works beyond motivation — one built on systems, rituals and principles that make showing up easier than giving up. For those tired of trying harder and ready to live better, that shift changes everything.

opinions

hank you to residents of Legislative District 11 for re-electing me and giving me the honor of continuing to serve you for another

term. A new year always gives me a spark of hope, and that fuels my determination to see Nassau County operate in a more equitable and responsible manner. With many of us contemplating our 2026 resolutions, it’s an exercise that would benefit county leaders and the constituencies they serve. These are but a few of the issues DELiA that county govDeRiGGi-WHiTTon ernment should prioritize as we set our goals: To finally get the opioid funds into the hands of frontline agencies. Nassau County has been far too slow in its efforts to get nearly $100 million in opioid settlements to agencies providing lifesaving prevention, treatment and recovery resources. A review of Nassau’s financial system shows that, as of December, less than 7 percent of that money had made it out of county bank accounts and into actual treatment initiatives. With hopes of getting this vital pro-

gram onto a better path, the Legislature authorized the use of $1 million of the funds to bring in an outside agency to cut through the red tape. But the funds have languished for years while lives continue to hang in the balance — and that must change. Remove politics from community grants. Over the past two years, the Legislature’s Democratic minority has fought tooth and nail to secure equitable resources for our communities. We have had to take this approach because County Executive Bruce Blakeman continues to act as though only the districts served by members of his party are entitled to those funds. By sticking together as a caucus, we delivered $1.3 million to equip our first responders and firefighters, and advanced long-delayed grants from the Hotel-Motel Occupancy Tax Fund to support cultural agencies, such as the Sea Cliff Arts Council, that boost regional tourism. Despite Blakeman’s hyper-partisanship and stubbornness, we are delivering for our constituents. But there is much more work to be done in 2026. To date, Republican districts have received approval for 58 Community Revitalization Program grants — for

FRAmEWoRk by Tim Baker

On the ice at Milburn Pond, no scarves or skates needed — Baldwin

schools, libraries, parks and more. Democratic districts? Just two. In the new year, let’s judge these projects by how they will enrich the lives of children and protect our first responders — not whether the applicant is Democrat or Republican. Invest equally in Nassau’s infrastructure. The Democratic minority secured a 2025 capital plan that invests in our law enforcement and medics, strengthens vital infrastructure and delivers tens of millions of dollars in resources for critical improvements in our districts. Looking ahead to the 2026 plan, I will continue to prioritize these upgrades for District 11:

know that generous Nassau County residents can more than meet the challenge.

■ Glen Cove, Glen Head and Sea Cliff: We remain focused on advancing the Shore Road flood-mitigation, traffic safety and beautification project. ■ Shore Road seawall, Baxter Estates: I continue to work with many levels of government to secure the roadway, protect the beach from erosion, add ADAcompliant sidewalks, improve lighting and provide amenities such as benches. ■ Baxter Pond, Baxter Estates/Port Washington: We are cleaning the basins to improve water flow, and are working

to secure approvals for dredging. ■ Crescent Beach, Glen Cove: Our test results at the end of the summer were very promising, and we hope to share more good news in the spring. Extend a helping hand all year long. A project nearest to my heart during the Legislature’s last term was our successful efforts to secure $43,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funding that equipped Glen Cove’s Nosh food pantry, and $50,000 for Plant A Row for the Hungry, in Port Washington, to feed families throughout our region. With President Trump’s megabill, underfunding of federal nutrition assistance programs was rampant, making it more critical than ever to support local hunger-fighting organizations. That’s where each of us comes in — and I know the generous hearts of Nassau County residents can more than meet the challenge. Please consider supporting one of the many toy drives that will put a smile on a child’s face in 2026, and give what you can to your local food pantry throughout the year. Together we can give families the greatest gift of all this year: a chance at a new start and better days to come. I wish all of you a joyous New Year! Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, of Glen Cove, represents Nassau County’s 11th Legislative District and is the Legislature’s minority leader.

ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD — January 8, 2026

Looking ahead to a new year of advocacy and action

Cheers to a Successful 2025. Here’s to New Beginnings in 2026. Wishing everyone a happy, healthy New Year! Thank you to all who trusted me throughout 2025—it was a year filled with meaningful milestones and success stories.

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Garden City, NY MLS#850413 | $1,500,000

Rockville Centre, NY MLS# 873883 | $1,398,000

SOLD

123 Broadway

8 Nottingham Road

62 Buckingham Road

SOLD

Garden City, NY MLS# 873980 | $998,000

Garden City, NY MLS# 837845 | $948,000

PENDING

SOL D

SOLD

Rockville Centre, NY Rockville Centre, NY Rockville Centre, NY MLS# 884865 | $1,315,000 MLS# L3564664 | $1,275,000 MLS# L3551229 | $1,250,000

100 Hilton Ave, Unit 511 111 Cherry Valley Ave, M23

301 Franklin Ave, Unit 114 Garden City, NY MLS# 935953* | $1,200,000

111 Berkshire Road

Rockville Centre, NY MLS# 835215 | $1,748,000

77 Maple Ave, Unit 10 Rockville Centre, NY MLS# 874593 | $831,000

PENDING

22 Hamilton Pl, Unit I1

Garden City, NY MLS# 929000 | $525,000

Ready to make your move in 2026? Contact me today.

Scott Wallace

Real Estate Salesperson Global Real Estate Advisor Gold Circle of Excellence 516.248.6655, c.516.521.4065 scottwallace@danielgale.com * Buyer Representative

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Each office is independently owned and operated. We are pledged to provide equal opportunity for housing to any prospective customer or client, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin.

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January 8, 2026 — ROCKVILLE CENTRE HERALD