Rockville Centre Herald 12-04-2025

HERALD ROCKVILLE CENTRE

Courtesy Valerie D’Agostino troop 869 daisies from Wilson elementary School visited Rockville Centre Mayor Francis X. Murray at Village Hall on nov. 24, asking questions about local government and their community as part of their good neighbor Badge requirements..

Daisy troop grills mayor about job and village life Businesses host game of hide-and-seek

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

The Daisies of Troop 869 recently met Mayor Francis X. Murray at the Rockville Centre Village Hall with wide eyes, full hearts and more questions than their leaders could fit on note cards, eager to find out what the mayor really does.

The troop, made up of about 17 first-graders from Wilson Elementary School, had been working toward their Good Neighbor Badge, a Girl Scout award designed to teach Daisies about their community, the people who help keep it running, and how they can contribute through acts of kindness and engagement.

The Daisies had already learned about local government earlier in the school year, when they voted for class president, vice president and treasurer. For troop co-leader

Valeria D’Agostino, meeting with the mayor was the perfect way to bring that lesson to life.

“The Good Neighbor Badge requires that the girls do three simple things,” D’Agostino explained. “One of them includes learning about their neighborhood and their community. So, we thought, what better way than reaching out to the mayor’s office?”

What happened next surprised even the troop leaders. D’Agostino initially contacted Murray’s assistant, unsure whether the mayor’s busy schedule would allow for a visit. When she followed up, Murray answered the phone himself. That enthusiasm helped the troop plan its outing without even shifting their normal Monday meeting time.

Once the Nov. 24 meeting was confirmed, preparation began in earnest. “We reached

Continued on page 15

By AlYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

Get ready for a winter adventure in Rockville Centre, where the holiday spirit is alive as the season returns — along with the Snowman Hunt.

The Chamber of Commerce has launched the ninth annual Snowman Hunt, inviting all children ages 12 and under to join in the fun. The event kicked off on Small Business Saturday last weekend, and young residents are now on a quest to find snowmen on display in participating small businesses throughout the village.

Tthe snowmen in each participating business.

Maps for hunters are available at Polka Dot Pound Cake, at 217 N. Long Beach Road. Participation in the event is free.

he holidays are so much fun to begin with, and this just adds a fun game for the community as a whole to participate in.

The businesses have snowman decals on their window, signaling to families on the hunt that a hidden snowman plush can be found inside, from now until Dec. 8. A child who finds a snowman receives a raffle ticket for the drawing for the grand prize, a $500 gift card. In addition, there are special prizes for finding

lISA UMANSKY RVC Chamber

of

Commerce director and

Polka Dot Pound

Cake owner

The hunt, created to help families to become familiar with the wide variety of small businesses Rockville Centre has to offer, has grown in recent years. Previously, children marked off each location they visited until they had a list of 10, to qualify for the grand prize. This year, the chamber drew inspiration from the Little Fall Festival, held in the Little Town business district in October. The festival’s scavenger hunt was widely praised for encouraging families to explore new areas they may not have seen before.

“The scavenger hunt was so exciting for the kids because they got something at each store,” chamber Vice President

Continued on page 20

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• seafood salad (2 lbs) -OR- • fried jumbo shrimp (2 lbs.)

• baked clams • mussels with garlic wine sauce (can be made spicy) • mussels fra diavolo (can be made not spicy)

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• stuffed flounder with mixed seafood • flounder francese

• haricot vert almondine (string beans) • broccoli cauliflower oreganata • roasted red potatoes

COOKIE TRAY AND 2 BREADS INCLUDED WITH PACKAGE

Christmas

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• signature antipasto platter

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• herb crusted prime eye round roast sliced with potatoes and onions in au jus • spiral glazed ham

• boneless pork loin stuffed with prosciutto, provolone, basil sliced with potatoes and onions

• chicken francese –OR- chicken marsala

New Years Eve Packages

17999+ tax serves 10-12 people

• Italian • American -OR-

• classic chicken (breaded or grilled) mozzarella and roasted peppers

• hot wings • sweet wings • sausage and peppers

• baked ziti • stuffed shells • meatballs

• hot appetizer sampler • eggplant rollatini

34999+ tax serves 20-25 people

• Italian • American -OR-

• classic chicken (breaded or grilled) mozzarella and roasted peppers

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COOKIE TRAY AND 2 BREADS INCLUDED WITH PACKAGE

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ALL CHRISTMAS ORDERS MUST BE PLACED BY 12/20 AND MUST BE PICKED UP BY 12/24 AT 4pm

Magic of Lights returns to Jones Beach

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

The holiday season is already sparkling as Magic of Lights returned to Jones Beach State Park, opening on Nov. 21, and running through Jan. 3. Families can drive through a dazzling winter wonderland and explore the Toyota Holiday Village, creating festive memories along the way.

Presented by Family Entertainment Live, the event features the longest light tunnel on Long Island, whimsical Prehistoric Christmas scenes with life-sized dinosaurs, towering 32-foot animated Mattel’s Waving Christmas Barbie, Reindeer Road, Toyland, festive elves, and more. Visitors can also enjoy photos with Santa, holiday treats, merchandise, and walk-through holiday attractions at the Toyota Holiday Village.

“Magic of Lights has become a beloved holiday tradition for families right here in the Tri-State area,” said Ken Hudgens, chief executive of Family Entertainment Live. “We’re proud to return to Jones Beach and continue spreading the joy, wonder, and togetherness that make this season so special.”

“The Magic of Lights Show continues to be an annual holiday tradition that exceeds attendee’s expectations,” George Gorman Jr., regional director of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, said, “From the first light display through the holiday village, the joys of the season come to life.”

Guests can journey through more than two million twinkling lights, including the aweinspiring 400-foot Enchanting Tunnel of Lights, Prehistoric Christmas scenes, and the legendary “BIGFOOT Monster Truck” display. Each display is crafted from steel frameworks using cuttingedge CAD technology, combined with 10 miles of LED lights in 10 vibrant colors.

Magic of Lights runs from 5–10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 5–11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Tickets, priced per vehicle, are available at MagicOfLights.com.

Jones Beach State Park, which spans 6.5 miles of oceanfront and more than 2,400 acres, welcomes over 9 million visitors annually and features iconic art deco bathhouses, a boardwalk, and the Central Mall with its ship-inspired design.

Magic of Lights at Jones Beach

Lights: More than 2 million twinkle throughout the display.

Power: 12.6 miles of light cord bring the displays to life.

Labor: 3,750 staff hours go into constructing each show.

Scale: Each installation uses roughly 10 miles of steel framework and 10 miles of LED lighting with 10 different colors.

Showstoppers: Scenes like Mattel’s Waving Christmas Barbie soar up to 32 feet tall and stretch several hundred feet.

Dates & Hours: Now–Jan. 3; 5–10 p.m. Sunday–Thursday, 5–11 p.m. Friday–Saturday.

Tickets: Per-vehicle pricing. Purchase at MagicOfLights.com

Crime watCh

LarCeny

On Nov. 24, an employee of Advance Formal Wear reported that two tuxedoes were not returned to his establishment after rental.

On Nov. 26, two Wilson School employees reported their property was stolen from an office in the building.

On Nov. 29, an employee of Mercy Hospital reported that their wallet was stolen from an office in the building.

CriminaL misChief

On Nov. 24, a motorist reported that someone damaged their windshield.

Leaving the sCene of an aCCident

On Nov. 25, a motorist reported that their vehicle was struck by another

All too often a client comes in with a sad tale about an estranged child. Naturally, they are at a loss as to what to do about the situation when it comes to leaving that child an inheritance.

Years ago, the famous advice columnist Ann Landers wrote that her all time most requested column for reprint was on this very subject. Ann wrote that an inheritance should be considered a gift and that if the gift is not deserved one should not be expected. While that may have been good advice at the time and perhaps still is in most cases, like many things it is more complicated today.

In practice, we find that many of these once loving sons and daughters have married individuals with borderline or narcissistic personality disorders. Their spouses are manipulative and controlling. They seek to separate the loving son or daughter from their family so as to better control their spouse. The estranged child knows from experience that going against the wishes of their narcissistic spouse is like throwing

gasoline on a fire — so they go along to get along.

Why does this happen? The manipulator has an enormous advantage over the clients’ son or daughter. The manipulator is a professional, having been this way all their life, honing their skills. The estranged son or daughter is an amateur — they have no experience in being manipulated. It may take years for them to even understand they are being manipulated and then more years, if ever, to build up defenses to the manipulation.

When young children are involved, the estranged child well knows the adverse consequences of having any normal relationship with their children should they seek a divorce from the narcissist.

vehicle, which fled the scene while parked on Merrick Road.

harassment

On Nov. 26, a Kia employee reported they received unwanted text messages from a prior employee.

UnUsUaL inCident

On Nov. 28, someone reported that an unknown person altered a check mailed through the U.S. Postal System.

arrest

On Nov. 29, Marcus Perry, 40, of Hempstead, was arrested and charged with assault, criminal contempt, criminal possession of a weapon, assault, and robbery following an investigation at a residence on Old Mill Court.

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.

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

November 23 – November 30

General Alarms – 9

Still Alarms – 8

Rescue – 6

Aided Cases (Ambulance) – 52

Mutual Aid Fire – 1

Mutual Aid Rescue – 0

Mutual Aid Ambulance – 0

Total – 76

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.

Year To Date

General Alarms – 421

Still Alarms – 274

Rescue – 173

Aided Cases (Ambulance) – 2168

Mutual Aid Fire – 75

Mutual Aid Rescue – 2

Mutual Aid Ambulance – 8

Total – 3121

Our advice is to try to understand and be compassionate with an estranged son or daughter in this situation. An Inheritance Protection Trust (IPT), that may only be used for them and your grandchildren, managed by either a

or a

may be

CAP21 students share Carnegie spotlight

Molloy University and its renowned CAP21 Musical Theatre program took center stage at Carnegie Hall, delivering an unforgettable night of music, storytelling, and Broadway brilliance.

The benefit concert, “Seth Rudetsky and His Broadway Friends,” drew a packed house as Emmy-nominated Broadway personality Seth Rudetsky led a star-studded lineup in a celebration of talent, artistry, and the future of musical theatre.

The evening featured dazzling performances by Kerry Butler, Santino Fontana, Erika Henningsen, Nikki M. James, Norm Lewis, Taylor Louderman, Andrea Martin, Jessie Mueller, Javier Muñoz, Zachary Noah Piser, Leah Reineck, Will Swenson, and Joy Woods.

Many performed signature songs from their most iconic roles, while also sharing selections that marked the early stages of their artistic journeys—some dating as far back as junior high or community theatre. Audience members were treated to surprise appearances as well, adding to the magic of a night possible only at Carnegie Hall.

“It was a thrilling evening of Broadway stars singing the songs that made them famous and sharing the songs they performed before they were stars,” Rudetsky said.

The South Shore Symphony, under conductor and music director Aaron Gandy, accompanied the performers, fill-

Molloy University’s CAP21 Musical Theatre students shared the stage with numerous Broadway stars during the “Seth Rudetsky and His Broadway Friends” benefit concert at Carnegie Hall on Nov. 25.

ing the room with the rich and layered sound of a full orchestra. Rockville Centre’s Wayne Lipton, the president of the symphony, played a pivotal role in ensuring the concert captured the spirit and energy of a true Broadway production.

Molloy University President James Lentini praised the success of the Nov. 25 show and the visibility it brought to both the university and its rising student artists.

“We are thrilled that our students and community had the opportunity to be

part of such an extraordinary evening at Carnegie Hall,” Lentini said. “Molloy’s commitment to preparing the next generation of performers, directors, and creators while celebrating Broadway’s enduring impact was evident, and the energy onstage was palpable.”

A highlight of the night was the participation of CAP21 Musical Theatre students, who shared the stage with the celebrated performers. Each student is enrolled in the university’s rigorous Bachelor of Fine Arts program, which

offers conservatory-style training in acting, voice, dance, and stagecraft. Students split their studies between Molloy’s Rockville Centre campus and the CAP21 Manhattan facility, gaining both academic depth and real-world experience that culminates in an industry-level Senior Showcase.

Alumni of the program include major names such as Lady Gaga, Kristen Bell, Matthew Morrison, and rising Broadway star Nichelle Lewis, who graduated in 2021 and starred as Dorothy in the 2024 revival of “The Wiz.”

Behind the scenes, the concert came together through the efforts of Rudetsky, Angelo Fraboni—the artistic director of the Madison Theatre at Molloy University—and the university’s office of advancement, which helped bring the event to near full capacity. Their collaboration ensured an evening that exceeded expectations and highlighted the growing influence of Molloy and CAP21 on the future of musical theatre.

As the curtain fell, the magic of the night lingered—leaving students, professionals, and audience members alike inspired by a celebration of Broadway’s past, present, and future.

For more information on Molloy University’s CAP21 Musical Theatre program, visit Molloy.edu.

–Alyssa R. Griffin

Cyclones reconnect in annual lacrosse game

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

The bitter wind that swept across the South Side High School athletic field did little to cool the excitement surrounding the 7th annual alumni lacrosse game.

Played the day after Thanksgiving in cold, blustery conditions, the event drew nearly 50 former Cyclones from classes that dated back as far as 1994. What started as coach Steve DiPietro’s simple idea to honor the legacy of the boys’ varsity lacrosse program has grown into a yearly homecoming, one that blends competition, camaraderie and decades of shared history.

DiPietro, who has led the program since 2008, created the alumni game as a way to celebrate the men who helped build South Side’s reputation as one of the village’s flagship sports.

“It’s great,” he said. “It’s such an unbelievable feeling to be able to come back and reconnect with all these guys, especially after Thanksgiving, and to have such a big turnout... it just means a lot.”

This year’s matchup unfolded in temperatures in the low 40s, though relentless gusts topping 20 mph made it feel closer to freezing. Still, spirits remained high as the odd-year graduates, dressed in gray, squared off against the evenyear alumni in their red jerseys.

The game featured four 15-minute quarters of running time, keeping the pace brisk and the players moving in the cold air.

The Odd team, consisting of players who graduated in odd-numbered years,

struck early and decisively, putting up four goals in the first quarter and never relinquishing control. They added five more in a dominant fourth quarter to seal a 12-6 victory over the Even team.

Jimmy O’Reilly led the charge with a

hat trick for the Odds, while Cullen Lynch and Nick O’Reilly each found the net twice. Matthew Melkonian, Joe LiCalzi, Stephen Parker and Matt Lozito contributed the remaining goals.

The Even squad fought hard, generating offensive bursts of its own. Gavin Ahern scored twice, and Jack McDonald, Jack Kimmel, Steve Serling and Alex Doerflein each added a tally. Michael Muscarella held strong in goal for the Evens, turning aside several high-velocity shots despite the icy wind, while Dominic Moriarity anchored the Odd team’s defense with a steady performance between the pipes.

Lozito and his younger brother Matt, who graduated in 2024, played on opposite teams and engaged in some playful battles during the match.

While the scoreboard recorded the final numbers, the lasting moments came from the sidelines—stories from the glory days, handshakes turning into hugs, and everyone gathering in the middle of the field for a big group photo.

For DiPietro, that connection is the true purpose of the event.

“Just the connections and being able to run this and tell funny stories and hear the guys banter back and forth,” he said. “You hope to create that family environment when, you know, 50, 60, 70 of these guys come back every year. It’s just priceless.”

Courtesy Spencer Kraus

South Side alumni toasts 20 years

Nearly 100 members of the South Side High School Class of 2005 returned to Rockville Centre on Nov. 29 for their 20th reunion at KC’s RVC. The evening offered classmates a chance to reconnect, share stories, and celebrate the bonds formed during their high school years.

News brief

RVC Foundation launches Schoolapalooza

The Rockville Centre Education Foundation has kicked off its annual Schoolapalooza online fundraising auction, offering families—and even community members without children in the district—a chance to bid on unique, student-focused experiences.

The auction runs from now until Dec. 8 and features dozens of exclusive opportunities donated by schools across the district, with all proceeds supporting enhanced educational programming.

This year’s lineup spans all grade levels and school buildings, with many popular traditions returning. Districtwide, students can bid to “Be the Voice of a Snow Day,” a $75 experience that lets one winner record the district’s official snow-day announcement.

Each elementary school is also offering a consistent slate of student favorites, including BFF lunches with principals, two chances for extra recess per building, and the always-popular “You Be the Principal!” experience, priced at $75. Many schools are also auctioning the chance to be Phys Ed Teacher for a Day.

A new highlight across the elementary buildings is a friendly multischool cornhole tournament, where

students can join their principals— Michelle DeMartino (Covert), Anna McGovern (Hewitt), Christopher Zappia (Riverside), Jennifer Pascarella (Watson), and Jim Duffy (Wilson)—to represent their school team.

At the secondary level, South Side High School is offering two tickets to the iconic Red & Blue competition and a week of reserved parking. South Side Middle School features a wide variety of creative and culinary activities, from cookie decorating, acrylic pour art, and personalized cup design, to cooking with family and consumer science teacher Meghan Fitzgerald and a cultural lunch with art teacher Kim Norris.

Students can also bid on a cafeteria fast-pass, VIP concert access, or reserved event parking.

Organizers emphasize that even residents without school-aged children can participate by bidding for a neighbor’s child or donating an item back to the school. Direct donations to the foundation are also encouraged. To bid, visit Rvcef.BetterWorld.org/ Auctions/Schoolapalooza-2025

–Brian Kacharaba

Riverside event promotes fitness, gratitude

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

The 7th annual Turkey Day Challenge at Riverside Elementary School, held was a vibrant celebration of physical activity, teamwork, and gratitude. This much-anticipated event, which is now a tradition at the school, brought together students, teachers, and parents for a day of fun and exercise before the Thanksgiving holiday.

Throughout the day, students participated in a series of engaging activities that tested their teamwork, agility, and sportsmanship. Some of the popular stations included bowling, flipping balls and bean-bags into buckets, and turkey relay races where students navigated sit-down scooters across the gym. One of the highlights of the event was the “Turkey Trot,” a fun race that encouraged students to run, jog, or walk around a designated track while being cheered on by PTA members and parent volunteers.

The goal of the Nov. 21 event was to combine physical exercise with a message of gratitude, aligning with Riverside’s core values of promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of community. By participating in these exercises and games, students learned the importance of being active while also taking time to appreciate the people and things they are thankful for.

To conclude the day, the students were treated to a pizza lunch, a welldeserved reward for their hard work and participation. The event would not have been possible without the dedication of the school’s PTA and the many parent volunteers who helped plan and execute the day’s activities.

Brian Kacharaba/Herald photos

Chat Noir, a popular French bistro, has been closed since early November.

Remnants of the restaurant’s former ambiance, including chairs, tables and liquor bottles, are still visible inside.

After 16 years of business, Chat Noir closes its doors

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

For nearly two decades, Chat Noir was a beloved staple of Rockville Centre’s dining scene, offering classic French cuisine in an intimate, bistrostyle atmosphere. Located at the corner of Merrick Road and North Village Avenue, the restaurant was known for its warm ambiance, attentive service, and a menu filled with timeless French dishes.

But now, after years of serving locals and visitors alike, Chat Noir has closed its doors. The restaurant, which opened in 2009, has been shuttered since at least the beginning of November.

On Nov. 20, a visit to the site by The Herald revealed a somber scene, with no sign on the door indicating whether the closure is permanent. The usually lively dining area was dark, with only dim light from outside filtering through the windows.

Inside, remnants of the once-bustling eatery remained: tables and chairs still positioned in the dining rooms—one table had two cardboard boxes perched

on it—and an assortment of liquor bottles remained visible on the bar.

The restaurant’s website has been shut down, and its phone number is disconnected.

Chat Noir had long been known for its signature dishes, such as duck confit, escargots, and steak frites, as well as its carefully curated wine list. Patrons often spoke highly of the restaurant’s ambiance, which was designed to evoke the spirit of Paris, with chic decor and intimate seating.

Although the reason for its closure remains unclear, the restaurant’s abrupt end has left many in the community saddened by the loss of a beloved spot.

“Very sad that it closed,” Facebook user Christie Gallego said in response to a post about the closing. “Cutest place, and I’ve gone to a few private parties there. They were fantastic.”

Numerous posts in that same thread suggested the eatery began to decline after an ownership change.

“It was extremely poorly run after the original owner sold it,” posted user Michelle James Wettstein.

th Saturday, December 6 6 - 9pm Sunday, December 7 1 - 4pm th

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Rockville Centre Police Commissioner A. Randy Dodd administers the oath of office to newly-appointed officers Thomas McNeely, left, and Anthony Fazio.

Police department swears in two new officers at meeting

By BRIAN KACHARABA bkacharaba@liherald.com

The Rockville Centre Police Department strengthened its ranks with the swearing-in of two highly experienced officers during the village’s Board of Trustees meeting.

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Mayor Francis X. Murray welcomed the additions of Anthony Fazio and Thomas McNeel on Dec. 1, praising both officers for their “extensive backgrounds and dedication to public safety,” qualities he said would reinforce Rockville Centre’s long-standing reputation as one of Long Island’s safest communities.

Police Commissioner A. Randy Dodd echoed that sentiment during the induction, offering detailed introductions that highlighted each officer’s service record and the experience they bring to the village.

McNeely, grew up in Island Park and graduated from West Hempstead High School. He answered what Dodd described as “the call to serve our nation” by enlisting in the United States Navy after high school.

Serving as a gunner’s mate aboard the USS Ramage in Norfolk, Va., McNeely excelled during four years of active duty and rose to the rank of petty officer second class.

After completing his military ser-

vice, he continued his commitment to public protection by joining the NYPD in 2021. McNeely served in several Transit Bureau assignments, including the Transit Bureau Response Team—an elite unit focused on combating crime and improving quality-of-life conditions throughout New York City’s subway system.

Fazio’s path to Rockville Centre is rooted in a similar devotion to service. A Manorville native and graduate of Eastport–South Manor High School, Fazio enlisted in the United States Marine Corps driven, Dodd noted, “by a deep sense of duty.”

Fazio was deployed to Afghanistan in 2011, where he demonstrated discipline, courage, and the high standards of the Marine Corps. Following his military service, he studied accounting at Suffolk Community College before joining the NYPD in 2016 and later continuing his career with the New York State Police.

Dodd said both officers’ military backgrounds, specialized training, and on-the-job experience will play a crucial role as Rockville Centre continues to modernize its police force.

“Their proven dedication to service and community will strengthen our department and the village we protect,” he said. “We are proud to welcome them to our ranks.”

Update to rates of subscription plans :

To continue providing you with high-quality hyperlocal news in the face of rising costs, as of December 1, 2025, the HERALD's subscription rates will be: annual subscription plan, paid by credit card - $1 per week (billed annually at $52.00); monthly subscription plan, paid by credit card - $2 per week (billed monthly at $8.67); one-year subscription, paid by check - $65 (check made out to "Richner Communications, Inc." and mailed to below address). Subscription plans paid by credit card renew at end of applicable term at then-current rates. Payment can be made online at liherald.com/subscribe, by calling (516) 569-4000 & press 7, or by mail to Herald Subscription Processing Center, 2 Endo Boulevard, Garden City, NY 11530.

mountsinai.org/southnassau

Mayor gives Daisy troop the VIP treatment

out to parents and let them know,” D’Agostino said. “We also invited parents to stay if they wanted, because we thought it would be a really cool opportunity for parents as well.”

The girls’ parents helped them brainstorm questions ahead of time, though the troop leaders weren’t sure how confident the Daisies would be in front of an elected official. They came prepared with note cards just in case.

But as soon as the girls sat down, they needed no encouragement. Their list of questions quickly tripled as hands shot up in every direction.

“We were prepared for the girls to be really nervous and maybe not comfortable asking the questions directly, so we had some note cards,” D’Agostino said. “But once they sat down, they were so excited. I mean, if they could have had two hours with him, they would have had two hours’ worth of questions.”

Murray gave the troop a kid-friendly overview of Rockville Centre’s history, explained the basics of local government and encouraged the girls to ask anything they liked. They wanted to know whether being mayor was stressful, whether he worked every day, what he loved most about living in the village, and, yes, how old he was. By the time the visit ended, the girls were buzzing with excitement.

“I think they were just kind of star-

struck that they got to meet with the mayor,” D’Agostino said.

Murray said the visit gave Village Hall a meaningful opportunity to connect with young residents, noting that their curiosity reflected a growing interest in their community. He also credited the troop’s leaders for fostering that engagement, adding that experiences like this help children understand how they fit into the life of the village.

“Troop 869’s visit to Village Hall was

a wonderful opportunity to connect with our youngest residents,” Murray said in a statement. “The girls asked thoughtful questions and showed a genuine interest in learning about their hometown.”

The meeting was only part of the troop’s packed agenda in November. The girls also wrote Thanksgiving cards that they delivered to the Sandel Senior Center, and took part in community service projects for Sharon’s Pantry while con-

What is the Good Neighbor Badge?

The Good Neighbor Badge is designed to help the youngest scouts understand the community they live in and the ways they can contribute to it. To earn the badge, Daisies complete three activities, which often include:

■ Learning about their community — exploring places like Village Hall, the local library, or fire department.

■ Discovering community helpers — understanding the roles of leaders such as the mayor, police officers, teachers, librarians and others who keep the community running.

■ Practicing being a good neighbor — doing small acts of kindness, helping others, or participating in service projects in their troop or hometown.

tinuing to work on badges focused on citizenship, service and community engagement — the core lessons of the Good Neighbor Badge.

Speak with Santa Claus this December

The Rockville Centre Recreation Department is offering a special opportunity for children ages four to second grade to participate in the North Pole Calling program.

The program allows children to receive a personal phone call from Santa Claus. To register, parents must fill out the provided form with their child’s information and submit it to the Recreation Center office by Dec. 13.

The registration form asks for details including the child’s name, grade, school, teacher’s name, and sibling information, along with any special

requests or topics the child would like to discuss with Santa. It also includes a section where parents can list any gifts their child may have requested. Calls will be scheduled for either Dec. 16 or Dec. 17, depending on the child’s grade level. The department will make one call per household, with a repeat call allowed if the first attempt is unsuccessful.

Anyone interested in participating can access the form on the Rockville Centre Village website.

–Brian Kacharaba

STEPPING OUT

A holiday treasure

Immerse yourself in New York Dance Theatre’s ‘Nutcracker’

By Roksana Amid

For more than four decades, New York Dance Theatre’s production of “The Nutcracker” has marked the arrival of the holiday season for thousands of Long Island families. This year, the 43rd annual performance — set for Dec. 20 and 21 at Hofstra University’s John Cranford Adams Playhouse — promises to deepen that legacy with an expanded immersive experience, celebrated guest artists and a renewed emphasis on the history that defines the company.

Since 1982, New York Dance Theatre, in partnership with the Ohman School of Ballet, has staged the full-length classic each December. Rooted in the Balanchine tradition handed down from founder Frank Ohman — a former student and soloist under George Balanchine — the production has grown into one of the region’s most recognizable holiday events. Yet for Executive Artistic Director Nicole Loizides, its staying power is not simply about technique or spectacle. It’s about belonging.

• Dec. 20-21, noon and 5 p.m.

• Tickets start at $33, available at ohmanballet.org or (631) 462-0964

• Hofstra University, John Cranford Adams Playhouse, Hempstead

“We really feed ourselves in tradition,” Loizides says. “Especially around the holidays, people want a place where they can feel comfortable to come home, rest, rela and celebrate together. Our Nutcracker stays rooted in that.”

Long before the overture begins, audience members are invited into the world of the Silberhaus family — the setting of the ballet’s opening scene. When guests enter the Playhouse lobby, costumed Victorian performers greet them, musicians play seasonal melodies and the scent of apple cider wafts through the air.

Children are invited to hang ornaments on a Christmas tree, one of many ways the production blurs the line between audience and story.

Loizides describes it as a “semi-immersive pre-show experience,” one the company has been refining for several years. This season, the lobby experience expands through a new partnership with the Long Island High School for the Arts, whose student musicians perform as audiences arrive.

“As soon as people enter our lobby doors, they’re invited in by characters from our very first act,” Loizides says. “We serve warm apple cider, we have

Allman Betts Family Revival

live music from some of our most talented youth on Long Island, and we try to capture the spirit of the season of giving within our community. Our audiences are growing tenfold because of that comfort.”

The lobby transformation mirrors the company’s mission: to create a space that feels familiar, nostalgic, and welcoming — something Loizides believes people crave amid today’s fastpaced, hyper-digital world.

“So many things get wrapped up in what’s new on social media or what’s trending,” she says “But this time of year, people want tradition. They want to feel grounded. That’s what we offer.”

This year’s production — as always — features an impressive roster of professional dancers. Brittany Pollack, a soloist with New York City Ballet, and Daniel Ulbricht, a principal dancer with the company and artistic advisor for NYDT, take on the roles of the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier. Broadway performers Joseph J. Simeone and Samuel Colina also appear, joining New York Dance Theatre soloists Sandra Cieslak, Olivia Fohsz, Trevor Montgomery, and Craig Wasserman.

Loizides also returns to the stage, portraying Frau Silberhaus. It’s a moment she describes as both personal and symbolic, especially as the company prepares to enter its 50th anniversary year.

North Shore Village Theatre Artistic Director Christopher Moll returns for his third season in the featured roles of Lead Father and Mother Ginger, contributing to the intercompany collaboration that has become a production hallmark.

Children’s roles are danced by students of the Ohman School of Ballet and the School of American Ballet, the official training academy of New York City Ballet. For many young performers, “The Nutcracker” is their first experience dancing alongside professionals, a tradition that honors Frank Ohman’s commitment to nurturing the next generation.

NYDT’s devotion to tradition is not abstract — it lives in the steps, sets, props, and costumes that have shaped the production for decades. Ohman secured permission from the George Balanchine Trust to use the original Sugar Plum Fairy pas de deux, grounding the show in Balanchine’s distinctive style. He also created supplementary scenes and dances that appear in no other staging, adding 10 to 15 minutes to the ballet and expanding opportunities for young dancers.

“What Frank added doesn’t exist anywhere else,” Loizides says. “It gives more solo moments to our youth, especially the young Clara, and it brings additional cultural dances into the second act. It’s something very special.”

Many of the costumes and props used onstage were gifted directly from Balanchine and former New York City Ballet crew members and are now entering formal archival preservation. Some pieces, Loizides notes, are still durable enough to appear in performance.

“That tradition dates back over 50 years,” she says.“These items are a direct link to Balanchine himself. They’re part of our history.”

As the company prepares to embark on its 50th anniversary, she is focused on balancing innovation with the artistic values that first shaped the organization.

“For us, even with new opportunities and initiatives all year, the Nutcracker stays rooted in tradition,” she adds. “This is where our community gathers. It’s where people feel at home.”

Get ready for an unforgettable night of music at the 9th Annual Allman Betts Family Revival! This extraordinary concert is hosted by Devon Allman and Duane Betts, the sons of Allman Brothers Band legends Gregg Allman and Dickey Betts. Inspired by the legendary Last Waltz, this tour features a revolving cast all coming together to honor the timeless legacy and rich catalog of the Allman Brothers Band. This year’s amazing lineup features the Allman Betts Band, the iconic Jimmy Hall, former Wet Willie singer and Allman Brothers alumni; alongside Robert Randolph, Amanda Shires, G. Love, Judith Hill, Jimmy Hall, Cody & Luther Dickinson, Alex Orbison, and others. Special guests may also join in. Set against the backdrop of the famous Allman Brothers Brotherhood of Light show, blending electrifying music with stunning visuals, it’s an unforgettable night that honors the rich history and timeless catalog of the Allman Brothers Band.

Sunday, Dec. 7, 8 p.m. $108.75, $64.75. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

‘Home for the Holidays’

Swing into the holiday season with Home for the Holidays with the Future of Jazz Orchestra presented in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center. Under the musical direction of Joe Block, expect to hear refreshing takes of your favorite holiday tunes. Joining the orchestra are vocalists Katie Oberholtzer and Imani Rousselle. Oberholtzer, a recurring figure at Birdland, the Jazz Club at the Aman, and Dizzy’s Club, has captivated audiences with her cross-genre performances. Rousselle, recently seen in Broadway’s “Good Night and Good Luck,” is celebrated for the warmth and poise she brings to stage. The Future of Jazz Orchestra is a young big band collective curated by Jazz at Lincoln Center that is comprised of musicians at the start of their jazz career. Pulling from local education programs at Juilliard, Temple, Manhattan School of Music, and more, the orchestra showcases musicians who are fresh on the jazz scene in NYC.

Saturday, Dec. 6, 8 p.m. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CALENDAR

DEC

4

LuminoCity Festival

LuminoCity is back at Eisenhower Park. Walk through a winter wonderland. Timed admission fee.

• Where: Eisenhower Park, East Meadow

• Time: 4:30-5:15 p.m., 6-6:45 p.m., 7:30-8:15 p.m., through Jan. 1

• Contact: luminocityfestival. com

DEC

5

Night

Out On The Lion

Molloy University hosts its annual gathering for kids ages 5-10. With snacks, games and more. Registration required by Dec. 1.

• Where: Wilbur Arts Center, 1000 Hempstead Ave, Rockville Centre

• Time: 5:30-9 p.m.

• Contact: Alex at agoessmann@molloy.edu

The Nutcracker Leggz Ltd. Dance rings in the holiday season with Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet, now in its. 10th season at the Madison Theater. Under the leadership of Artistic Director Joan MacNaughton, international ballet stars are joined by gifted young dancers from all over the metropolitan area. The South Shore Symphony brilliantly brings to life the composer’s extraordinary music making this magical extravaganza a must-see for everyone!

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

• Time: 7 p.m.; also Dec. 6, 5 p.m.; Dec. 7, 3 p.m.

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

‘Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus! The Musical’ Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes back this delightful production, based on Mo Willems’ award-winning “Pigeon” picture books. Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! is even more fun than staying up late and having a hot dog party. It’s not easy being the Pigeon — you never get to do anything. But when the Bus Driver has a crisis that threatens to make her passengers (gasp!) late, maybe that wily bird can do something. Featuring an innovative mix of songs, and feathers, this show is sure to get everyone’s wings flapping. $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: 10:15 a.m. and noon.; also Dec. 7, 2:15, p.m., Dec. 10-12

• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

DEC 16

Elon Gold

DEC

9

Rockville Centre Civic Association meets

The Civic Association is holding its next meeting at Rockville Centre Public Library. Stay informed on the happenings within the village.

• Where: 221 N. Village Ave.,

• Time: 7-9 p.m.

• Contact: RVC.Civic@gmail.com

DEC

11

Board of Education meets Rockville Centre UFSD holds its next meeting. Stay informed on school district matters.

• Where: South Side High School, 140 Shepherd St., Rockville Centre

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: rvcschools.org or (516) 255-8957

DEC

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

• Time: 7:30 p.m.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

Close out 2025 with some laughs with comedian Elon Gold, best known for his relatable takes on being Jewish and getting through the weirdness of life. Considered by many to be this generation’s Borscht Belt King, he’s no stranger to those who watch Netflix. His act brings laughs to both Jews and non-Jews alike all over the world, including sold out shows in England, Sydney and Johannasburg. He’s made dozens of memorable appearances on late-night talk shows and TV series, especially his hilarious recurring role as Head of Hulu on “Curb Your Enthusiasm” opposite Larry David. His one hour Netflix stand-up special, “Elon Gold: Chosen & Taken” received wide acclaim from audiences and peers alike and is currently streaming on Amazon Prime. He has made ten appearances on the “Tonight Show” and recently performed on “The Late Late Show with James Corden.” His routines have gone viral and are shared by millions around the globe. He has starred in FOX’s “Stacked” and developed and starred in the NBC series, “In-Laws.” Prior guest star credits include “Crashing,” “Frasier,” “Chappelle’s Show,” and “Chelsea Lately” among others. He was also a writer/performer on ABC’s “The Dana Carvey Show.” Most recently, Elon can be seen in a recurring role on Season 11 of HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” and will be in the upcoming Kal Penn feature, “Trust Me, I’m A Doctor.” He has also just wrapped filming the titular role in the upcoming feature “The Badchan,” from renowned Israeli director Gidi Dar. $76.25 and $54.25..

DEC

6

Pancake Breakfast with Santa Fun for the whole family at The Backyard! Enjoy pancakes, muffins, coffee and more. Tickets are $15 a head, reservations required.

• Where: 215 N. Long Beach Road

• Time: 8:30-9:30 a.m., 10-11 a.m., and 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 351-6299

Holiday at Westbury House

Celebrate the holiday season at Old Westbury Gardens when the timeless holiday tradition returns. Step inside Westbury House and experience the magic of Christmas past with rooms beautifully decorated in period style and filled with festive cheer. Stroll through the gardens, enjoy holiday treats like cookies and warm cider, and don’t miss a special visit from Santa himself. $18, $15 seniors (62+) and full-time students, $8 children (ages 7–17), free 6 and under and members.

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: 10 a.m.-3 p.m., also Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and Dec. 1314, Dec. 20-21

• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call 516-333-0048

DEC

7

Holiday Flute Choir

Long Island Flute Club’s Holiday Flute Choir returns to Westbury House’s Red Ballroom with “Silvery Sounds of the Season,” an hourlong concert of holiday carols and seasonal favorites. The choir, which has performed at Old Westbury Gardens since 2007, consists of professional and adult amateur flutists from across Long Island. The choir is under the direction of flutist and Old Westbury Gardens docent Lauren Osnato. Seating is limited; arrive early to ensure entrance to the concert. Included with admission.

• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• Time: 2:30-3:30 p.m.

• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call 516-333-0048

Happy Hanukkah!

Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes all to get ready for Hanukkah by learning all about dreidels. Find out about the game’s history and rules and then decorate your own dreidel to take home. This is a drop-in activity.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: 1-3 p.m.

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

Santa visit Christmas is arriving early at Press 195 as Santa will be stopping by to meet and take pictures with all children in attendance. Children ages 12 and under can take a photo with Santa and receive a free kids’ meal. Reservations are recommended.

• Where: 22 N. Park Ave.

• Time: 12:30 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 536-1950

Long Island’s ‘Messiah’

For many, the holiday season officially begins with the Long Island Choral Society’s performance of George Frederic Handel’s Messiah, Part 1 and highlights from Parts 2 and 3. Celebrate the season at the holiday concert. $25, $10 youth.

• Where: Christ Church Manhasset, 1351 Northern Blvd., Manhasset

• Time: 4 p.m.

• Contact: lics.org or (516) 652-6878

DEC

8

Holiday Open House

Enjoy music, snacks and more at the Phillips House Museum.

• Where: 28 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre

• Time: 2-4 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 670-5737

14

Holiday concert

The Long Island Community Chorus invites all to their upcoming concert, “Season of Peace.” $10 suggested donation, children under 12 free.

• Where: St. James UMC, 11 St. James Place, Lynbrook

• Time: 3 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 599-5705 or email licchorus@gmail.com

Holiday art fair

Art Studio RVC hosts a “Wonder Wall,” a kid friendly and affordable holiday art fair featuring works by local artists, all priced at $80 or less. Families can also enjoy an art scavenger hunt, a holiday cardmaking station, and a photo booth. All of the proceeds go to the artists. Light snacks and refreshments will be available.

• Where: 221 N. Long Beach Road, Rockville Centre

• Time: 3:30 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 763-2050

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.

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4,

LEGAL NOTICE

Public Notices

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: BOWA Ventures, LLC.

Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 11/5/2025. NY Office

location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as an agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: 91 Dorchester Rd, Rockville Centre, NY 11570

Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity.

156729

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF REGISTRATION OF A FOREIGN LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.

NAME: PAC Homes LLC

Application for Authority filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 10/31/25. NY Office

location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as an agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: 53 S Lewis Place, Rockville Centre NY, 11570. Certificate of Formation filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on 07/08/24.

Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity.

156835

LEGAL NOTICE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Rockville Centre (Village) will hold a public hearing with respect to the following proposed local law: Bill RVC 2025-D. A local law to extend the temporary moratorium previously enacted as Local Law 2-2023.

Time and Place of Hearing: Eugene J. Murray Village Hall One College Place, Rockville Centre, New York

Date of Hearing: December 18, 2025

Time of Hearing: 6:00 pm

The proposed local law is not an Action pursuant to the State Environmental Quality Review Act.

The proposed local law is available for public inspection at the Village Clerk’s office at One College Place, Rockville Centre, New York, between 8:00 am

and 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday, except legal holidays. All interested persons will have an opportunity to be heard at the public hearing.

The Village complies with the Americans With Disabilities Act.

Disabled persons with special needs should contact the Village Clerk’s office at 516-678-9212 at least three business days prior to the hearing, so that reasonable efforts may be made to accommodate such needs.

Dated: November 18, 2025 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE VILLAGE OF ROCKVILLE CENTRE 157068

LEGAL NOTICE

Village of Rockville Centre

Nassau County, New York

Notice of Board of Zoning Appeals

Hearing Date: December 10, 2025

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

December 10, 2025 at 7:00 PM

Case # 27-2025 - C. Kyle & Brady McLoone

To construct a second story addition over existing first story with a proposed side yard setback of 5.78 feet where 8.0 feet is the minimum required within a Residence A district.

Premises known as 50 Southard Avenue

Case # 31-2025 - Kevin & Michelle Foley

To construct a covered patio in the rear yard with a proposed lot coverage of 34.9% where 30.0% is the maximum allowable, and a setback between the covered patio and the pool of 4.5 feet where 6.0 feet is the minimum required within a Residence A district.

Premises known as 143 Linden Street

Case # 32-2025 - Eric & Meryl Sussman

To construct a secondstory rear addition over existing one-story with a proposed rear yard setback of 18.65 feet

where 25.0 feet is the minimum required, within a Residence A district.

Premises known as 8 Aldershott Court

Case # 34-2025Rafudeen Juman

To enclose the open front porch with a proposed front yard setback of 23.31 feet to the porch where 30.0 feet is the minimum required within a Residence A district lot.

Premises known as 100 Lakeview Avenue

Case # 35-2025 - Peter Cuttitta

To alter a commercial building, within a “Business A-1 District” which requires (20) twenty parking spaces where (9) nine nonconforming parking spaces are provided and providing business parking in a Residence A District.

Premises known as 62 South Long Beach Road

Dated: November 25, 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 157069

LEGAL NOTICE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Rockville Centre (Village) will hold a public hearing with respect to the following proposed local law: Bill RVC 2025B. A Local Law to amend the Code of the Village of Rockville Centre in relation to prior written notice of defect

Time and Place of Hearing: Eugene J. Murray Village Hall One College Place, Rockville Centre, New York

Date of Hearing: December 18, 2025

Time of Hearing: 6:00 pm

The proposed local law is not an Action pursuant to the State Environmental Quality Review Act. The proposed local law is available for public inspection at the Village Clerk’s office at One College Place, Rockville Centre, New York, between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday, except

legal holidays. All interested persons will have an opportunity to be heard at the public hearing. The Village complies with the Americans With Disabilities Act. Disabled persons with special needs should contact the Village Clerk’s office at 516-678-9212 at least three business days prior to the hearing, so that reasonable efforts may be made to accommodate such needs.

Dated: November 18, 2025 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE VILLAGE OF ROCKVILLE CENTRE 157066

LEGAL NOTICE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Rockville Centre (Village) will hold a public hearing with respect to the following proposed local law: Bill RVC 2025-C. A local law to amend the Code of the Village of Rockville Centre, in relation to continuing the eligibility for, and amount, of, exemptions for volunteer firefighters and unremarried spouses.

Time and Place of Hearing: Eugene J. Murray Village Hall One College Place, Rockville Centre, New York

Date of Hearing: December 18, 2025 Time of Hearing: 6:00 pm

The proposed local law is not an Action pursuant to the State Environmental Quality Review Act.

The proposed local law is available for public inspection at the Village Clerk’s office at One College Place, Rockville Centre, New York, between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday, except legal holidays. All interested persons will have an opportunity to be heard at the public hearing.

The Village complies with the Americans With Disabilities Act. Disabled persons with special needs should contact the Village Clerk’s office at 516-678-9212 at least three business days prior to the hearing, so that reasonable efforts may be made to accommodate such needs.

Dated: November 18, 2025 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Holiday fun returns with annual Snowman Hunt

Continued from page 1

Donna O’Reilly said. “It was really nice to hear parents say, ‘Oh, I didn’t know this store was here,’ so it was a great introduction to our business community. The businesses were getting visibility they hadn’t had before.”

There are now 33 participating businesses across the village, making this the largest Snowman Hunt ever.

“When the adults see the map and say, ‘Hey, there’s a new boutique in town — I forgot that it’s on the map,’ it reminds them to visit a new business or discover one they haven’t had a chance to check out yet,” said Lisa Umansky, the chamber’s director and past president, and the owner of Polka Dot Pound Cake.

The idea for the Snowman Hunt was Umansky’s: She took a simple holiday tradition and turned it into something much bigger.

“Around 10 years ago, I came to the chamber with an idea,” she recalled. “Elf on the Shelf was peaking in popularity, and I thought, how can we turn that into a scavenger hunt for the community and the business community? That’s when I came up with the Snowman Hunt to kick off Small Business Saturday.”

At a time when online shopping was on the rise, Umansky and other chamber members were determined to support small businesses during the holiday season. “I was a little concerned that foot traffic to everyone’s small business areas would suffer because of online shopping,” she recounted. “I thought the Snowman Hunt would be a fun way to keep people engaged — something for families to do, for kids to run around town and find snowmen in participating businesses. It would also remind the community to shop local.”

The hunt has become a beloved tradition that unites the business community

Please be advised that Teamsters, Local Union No. 237 has made a formal request to the Rockville Centre Union Free School District to represent Food Service Helper Part-Time and excluding all other employees employed

and residents. “The holidays are so much fun to begin with, and this just adds a fun game for the entire community to participate in,” Umansky said.

“The Snowman Hunt is a wonderful tradition that brings our community together while supporting the small businesses that make Rockville Centre so special,” Mayor Francis X. Murray wrote to the Herald. “It’s a fun, familyfriendly way to explore our village, and I’m grateful to our Chamber of Commerce for creating an event that celebrates local spirit and encourages our young residents to get involved.”

For more information on the Hunt, visit RockvilleCentreChamberOfCommerce.com.

the District. This notice is to serve as official notification of the Local 237’s request and the District’s intent to voluntarily recognize the Local 237 as the exclusive bargaining representative for this unit. This recognition, subject to the required posting and notices during the open period, will be effective on December 11,

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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 $16.50 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

EDITOR/REPORTER

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

MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16.50 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT

DEVELOPMENT

Inside Sales

Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $34,320 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $34,320 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours

Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250

PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS

FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDI-

from $20 per

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On renovations and tax increases

Q. There’s a lot of renovation going on around us, and I don’t see one permit sign or window sign. One neighbor told me he didn’t want his taxes to go up, so he’ll get a permit if he gets caught or when he sells. Isn’t that taking a chance? Will taxes definitely go up, and what are my chances of getting caught for adding a roof over my front door and changing out my windows?

A. Whenever a carton of milk is tipped over on the table, there are those who immediately start mopping up the spill, while others quickly grab the carton to stop the spill at its source. Some try to solve the problem, while others try to fix the mess it creates.

Apartments For Rent

CEDARHURST NO FEE Private Entrance, Modern 1BR, 2BR, 3BR, CAC, W/D, Storage, Wall To Wall Carpeting, Indoor Parking Space. Starting At $1450 For One Bedroom When Available. (516)860-6889/ (516)852-5135/ (516)582-9978

Taxes are the biggest worry, it seems, when it comes to renovation, and the number one question I get. I’m not sure if you’ll get caught, but since taxes don’t reduce, it’s safe to say that you could do nothing and your taxes will go up. I have been advocating for years to have a two-tier property tax system in which your house is taxed separately from property taxes. Many municipalities, from Philadelphia and Boston to cities and towns across Connecticut, Massachusetts and Pennsylvania, have explored and adopted this system, in which building improvements are taxed one-fifth of what they would be in your county.

All the savings for your home renovation, no matter how big or small, encourage public safety through permits and improvements. Where penalties for working without a permit are enforced on the builder, as in New York City, builders doing work, and not just the property owner, have a financial stake, and the local economy gets stronger from sales taxes instead of penalizing people, forever, because they wanted a family room, etc. Sadly, what happens in your county is that the system actually promotes unsafe practices, code violations, work needing to be redone once the owner “gets caught,” such as redoing piping, kitchen removal and zoning hearings that could have been avoided if there were planning, permits and strong penalties.

I regularly get questions about whether existing work “meets code,” when people completely misunderstand that building codes are the bare minimum, and do not fully cover the tolerances or behavior of materials, specific life safety issues or special cases requiring more stringent engineering, from resisting freezing to melting, weak soil, explosion or flame spread, to name a few. It’s common because of your local tax and permit system, and almost seems to be encouraged by allowing people to file to “maintain” work, built illegally, in essence mopping up the spill instead of helping people avoid the spill in the first place.

Building departments accommodate hidden work by simply asking owners to have a licensed professional accept responsibility, stating in letters and in plans that the work is code-compliant, as if professionals have a special super power to see through walls. But no use crying over spilled milk, right? Good luck!

© 2025 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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Affordability must be part of our state energy policy

Reliable and affordable energy is essential to the well-being of New York families. As a legislator concerned with personal health, our environment and the need for our communities and businesses to thrive, I support the long-term goal of decarbonizing our state.

There is no doubt that carbon emissions, created when fossil fuels are burned, cause climate change. We see the impacts every day on Long Island. The increasing frequency of extreme weather, coastal flooding and the acidification of the ocean are real problems that we must work to address in a measured and responsible approach.

Our state is not ready for an all-electric building mandate, however. Any policy that restructures our energy systems must ensure that dependability and affordability are not compromised. Transitions of this magnitude must be grounded in technological readiness and grid capacity, and take into account the significant cost borne by taxpayers.

That’s why I signed a letter last month, along with many of my colleagues,

addressed to Gov. Kathy Hochul, asking for a pause on the implementation of the new all-electric building mandate. This pause should remain, pending a thorough reassessment of grid reliability; an analysis of the cost impact on homeowners, renters, small businesses and local governments; and the mitigation of risks. In order to enhance transparency and feasibility, we must invite stakeholders and the public to review these transition plans.

That’s why we asked Governor Hochul to pause the allelectric building mandate.

In 2021, when this legislation was first introduced, I did not co-sponsor it, signaling my serious concerns about cost, grid reliability and lack of vital infrastructure. I opposed the bill coming to the floor in 2022. It was eventually passed as part of the 2023 state budget, when I was no longer in office. If I had been, I would have voted no.

A pause is a prudent measure to ensure that we don’t jeopardize system reliability, impose runaway costs or force other unintended consequences on our constituents, businesses and municipalities. Actions on the federal level, like attacks on the Home Energy Assistance Program, compound the affordability crisis and make pursuing clean-energy goals that much more difficult.

The all-electric building mandate could disincentivize new housing proj-

ects and further compromise the statewide housing crisis if implemented before infrastructure, reliability and affordability issues are resolved. Slowing needed housing development and driving up construction costs are contrary to the steps we have taken to make New York more affordable. A recent report from the New York Independent System Operator further validated my decision to request that the governor pause this new mandate.

The report warned that our grid, as it stands, might not be able to handle the electrical load expected as a result of rapid electrification, especially during the winter months. Weather could also impede the delivery of new electrical models, meaning heat could be unavailable for some New Yorkers during the winter when supply is a matter of life or death. The NYISO has also warned about the risks of power outages across Long Island, New York City and the state during extreme heat in the summer months when capacity is overextended.

The NYISO has stated that until zeroemissions resources with dispatchable capacity are fully online, fossil-fuel-fired generation will remain essential to maintain system reliability. More work needs to be done in terms of stress-testing the

grid during high-use periods, cost-rate impact studies and acceleration of cleanenergy projects to ensure capacity.

Implementing the all-electric building policy prematurely could leave New Yorkers without reliable, affordable power. Though decarbonization goals are well intentioned, ignoring the reality of our housing and affordability crisis, and leaving New Yorkers without sufficient cost-effective, reliable energy is reckless, and not a viable option.

Recent federal policy has not been supportive of these goals, either. Despite insurmountable scientific evidence, and Long Island’s own firsthand experience with the effects of climate change, it is still dismissed by some on the federal level as a conspiracy theory or a hoax. Without a federal partner, ambitious clean-energy goals become that much harder to attain.

Hochul has heeded our advice, implementing a pause of the mandate until further notice and pending litigation. Once these concerns, outlined in our letter, have been addressed, I am eager to continue moving New York in a direction that is cleaner, affordable, energyreliable and one my constituents will be proud to pass down to future generations. I remain committed to balancing affordability, grid reliability and their needs with a measured approach.

Judy Griffin represents the 21st Assembly District.

To find personal peace, get involved in giving back

Merriam-Webster’s dictionary meaning of peace is: a state of tranquility or quiet, freedom from civil disturbance; a state of security or order within a community provided for by law or custom; freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions; harmony in personal relations; a state or period of mutual concord between governments; or a pact or agreement to end hostilities between those who have been at war or in a state of enmity. To achieve true peace, I believe it is important for people to first feel peace internally — a state of tranquility or quiet. Personal peace is often not discussed as much as it should be. If there is peace within oneself, it is easier to find peace in a non-peaceful world. Creating an environment of peace and calm can be challenging when distraction and lack of attention seem to be the default for many people today. Peace is something that can be modeled

Hby our family, friends, mentors, community and leaders. When you see what peaceful behavior looks like from people around you, you start to feel peace. Perhaps that feeling is like a softening in your body, a sense of stability, confidence, grounding and reduced emotional reaction. When you’re in a state of peace, it creates a space, a pause and a chance to breathe and choose a thoughtful response rather than an emotional reaction.

There are many ways for people to develop their own peace. For example, sitting quietly, spending time with a pet, taking a nature walk, talking to a friend, reading, writing, joining organizations with like-minded people and giving back to the community. When people give back, the community benefits, as do those doing the giving, with surges of happiness and feelings of purpose.

the Four Way Test, a reminder to make sure we live up to the Rotary standards of truth, fairness, goodwill and friendship.

elping others makes you happy and gives you a feeling of purpose.

I get this feeling of peace when I work with my local Rotary Club, which offers access to an international organization of like-minded people who believe in fellowship, strengthening communities and overall peace. We begin every Rotary meeting by reciting

If those in warring factions and nations could find ways to develop inner peace, there could be a lot less conflict. In a peaceful state of mind, they might be more likely to achieve a positive outcome for situations in which a collective effort leads to greater benefit, a win-win where the parties gain more than they initially possessed, rather than fixed outcomes in which one side’s gain is the other’s loss. When people just look out for themselves in a zero-sum fashion, they create feelings of isolation and lack of support. This sense of loneliness can also lead to higher levels of emotional dysregulation. Decisions made in a dysregulated, non-peaceful state of mind are often emotionally reactive, not helpful and not thoughtful.

As humans being, we want to thrive in our world — in our nation, in our community, in our group of friends and in our family. To make ourselves feel better, it is essential to support and

encourage one another to be the best we can instead of putting others down. If someone you know gets a big job promotion or achieves something new, you should be genuinely happy for them, not jealous of them. This also creates a sense of peace in ourselves instead of anger, anxiety or comparison.

During peaceful times, individuals, communities and nations can prosper. Being in a constant state of war or violence toward others or oneself leads only to agitation and turmoil. When we’re more connected to one another we are less isolated, feel supported and experience less emotional distress and more peace.

I encourage you to think about ways to connect more, perhaps by joining a community organization, getting involved in a social group or taking up a hobby. Take your attention off a screen, off social media and off parasocial relationships in which you get empty calories, thinking you’ve found peace but are just being led by an algorithm toward a zero-sum conflict. Remember that being a human is messy and difficult, but that is where the true peace of mind, body and soul are found.

Jordan Pecora, who lives in Rockville Centre, is the immediate past president of the Freeport-Merrick Rotary Club.

HERALD

tDialing down the holiday stress

he holiday season carries a reputation for joy, connection and celebration, yet for many adults it also reliably delivers stress, pressure and emotional overload. Between family dynamics, financial expectations, packed schedules and the internal push to be relentlessly cheerful, it’s no surprise that mental health can take a hit.

This year, consider a more intentional approach by reclaiming this time with strategies that help you thrive, not just survive.

Our culture is saturated with glossy versions of holiday perfection: immaculate homes, harmonious families, gourmet meals and coordinated pajamas.

Social media amplifies it, encouraging comparison even when we know better. But perfection is both impossible and unnecessary. A successful holiday isn’t measured by aesthetics or extravagance; it’s defined by what feels meaningful, peaceful and manageable for you.

One of the healthiest mental shifts you can make is letting go of other people’s expectations, whether it’s your extended family’s traditions or the imaginary audience in your Instagram feed. Give yourself permission to scale down, choose differently, or avoid what drains you. The real “perfect” holiday is the one that supports your well-being.

If there is one skill that reduces holiday stress more than anything else, it’s

boundary-setting. The season often arrives with invitations, obligations and emotional expectations that stack up quickly. Saying yes to everything is unsustainable and usually unnecessary.

A “polite no” doesn’t require elaborate excuses. Try simple scripts such as:

“I appreciate the invite, but I’m keeping things low-key this year.”

“That sounds meaningful, but I can’t take on anything extra right now.”

Setting limits isn’t unkind — it’s responsible. Boundaries protect the energy you need for the commitments and people that genuinely matter.

Holiday spending is one of the biggest, and most underestimated, sources of December stress. Gift-giving can be joyful, but only when it’s grounded in reality rather than guilt or comparison.

Create a budget before you shop, not afterward. Consider setting price caps for group exchanges, opting for homemade gifts or planning shared experiences rather than material items. Most important, reject the mindset that whispers that love must be proven through financial sacrifice. Some of the most meaningful gifts cost nothing: time, connection and attentive presence.

During a season of constant invitations, the most radical choice you can make is protecting your routine. Sleep, movement and downtime are the foundation of mental stability. Schedule “empty time” the same way you would

schedule an appointment. Leave room for rest, flexibility and the ability to say yes to what genuinely nourishes you.

If you rely on therapy, journaling, medication or meditation, guard those habits fiercely. You don’t have to abandon mental health routines simply because the calendar gets festive.

For those experiencing grief, loss or estrangement, the holidays can magnify pain. There is no correct way to “handle” grief during a season of what often feels like forced joy. Give yourself permission to feel whatever arises — sadness, anger, numbness or even unexpected happiness. Create rituals that honor lost loved ones, allow yourself space to step back from celebrations, or connect with others navigating similar emotions. You are not required to “perform” cheerfulness.

January often hits like emotional whiplash. Build in recovery time rather than expecting yourself to launch into new-year productivity immediately. Plan a quiet weekend, revisit your budget, reset your sleep schedule and reestablish routines that ground you. The goal is to ease into the new year, not crash into it.

The holidays don’t need to be an endurance test. With realistic expectations, thoughtful boundaries and a commitment to your mental well-being, you can transform the season from chaotic to intentional.

Health care’s short-term fix and long-term solution

The biggest issue around most Thanksgiving tables last week — other than gratitude — was just how expensive everything seemed. Costs have risen sharply in the past few years, and people are looking for answers.

People are sick of politicians’ petty partisan attacks. They’re asking, “What can you do to make life more affordable?” Some things are straightforward: tariffs make groceries, clothing and Christmas presents more expensive. The growing federal debt is driving up interest rates. Demand for energy to power A.I. data centers, combined with the cancellation of a bunch of green-energy projects, is driving up energy costs. Fewer workers on farms and in industrial plants, hospitality and health care due to deportation — or being scared to show up for work — increases overtime costs.

Rising health care costs are at the top of the affordability crisis list, but addressing those costs is extraordinarily complex.

First, we need an immediate fix in

the next few weeks to extend premium tax credits to avoid an explosion in health insurance premiums for millions of Americans. Then, over the next two years, we need to develop a bipartisan plan to reduce hyperinflated health care costs meaningfully.

iRight now, over 20 million Americans rely on the Affordable Care Act’s enhanced Premium Tax Credits to afford health insurance. These credits, which expire at the end of the year, require a person buying health insurance to pay 8.5 percent of their income for coverage, with the rest covered by the federal government. If Congress fails to fix this soon, those millions will see their premiums jump by hundreds, even thousands, of dollars, overnight. For many, that would mean losing coverage altogether. Even those who don’t use the credits would be affected: When the risk pool shrinks, premiums rise for everyone.

in the system and ensure that the program functions as intended.

This bill isn’t perfect, but no bipartisan compromise is. Time is running out, and my colleagues and I haven’t seen anyone else stepping up with a truly bipartisan plan. So we did.

n a litany of steps we need to take to improve our system, a few stand out.

Next, the long-term solution: Over the next two years, we need a bipartisan effort to address the decades-long rise in health care costs. Health care is too expensive. Insurance is too expensive. The Affordable Care Act achieved its objective of insuring tens of millions of Americans who had never been insured. Before the ACA, 50 million people were uninsured; today, that number is less than half.

increase life expectancy. Smoking, alcohol, improper diet and lack of exercise are the leading avoidable causes of premature death. We have made significant strides in addressing smoking; we need to do the same with obesity. We must do better! Let’s emphasize healthy eating and exercise, de-incentivize alcohol, and get the medical community more focused on prevention and early detection.

Doctors should be guiding treatment, not insurance companies. Physician payments have fallen dramatically, while doctor expenses have risen by even more. In a world where doctors are subject to burnout, excessive lawsuits and spending more time on defensive paperwork than patient care, our physician pool is hemorrhaging.

First, the immediate fix: I recently introduced the Bipartisan HOPE Act. It would extend the premium tax credits for two years, and institute a salary cap to target assistance to those most in need.

The act also includes strong guardrails to combat fraud, with protections that safeguard taxpayers, restore trust

LeTTers

SUNY errs in rejecting Conzatti appointment

To the Editor:

Re last week’s story “Rejection of NCC leader sparks opposition”: As a former member of the Nassau Community College board of trustees, I take exception to the arbitrary and meritless decision by the SUNY board of trustees in denying the application of the college’s chief administrative officer, Maria Conzatti, for a permanent position.

SUNY’s board voted 12-0 to reject Ms. Conzatti’s application without a scintilla of reason or justification for such a monumental decision, impacting almost 18,000 students and over 800 faculty members. By creating this crater in leadership at the college, when public educational institutions face so much uncertainty and financial challenges, SUNY is overtly causing an unnecessary and counterintuitive crisis that could have been avoided.

I have known Maria Conzatti for almost 14 years, and she has demonstrated a clear and unequivocal track record as an effective, dedicated and professional administrator who has earned the trust of the students, faculty and administration over a multi-decade career at NCC.

As a legislator, I, along with my colleagues, have an obligation to ensure that

our contribution to the college’s budget is being applied judiciously and appropriately. For SUNY to now leave the college rudderless until a permanent leader is found — which, in my experience, can take up to a year — is irresponsible and concerning to me and the taxpayers of Nassau County.

ARNOLD W. DRUCkER Plainview

Arnold Drucker is the deputy minority leader of the Nassau County Legislature, and was a member of the Nassau Community College board of trustees until 2016.

Curtis Sliwa didn’t keep Andrew Cuomo from winning

To the Editor:

I was surprised, when reading Peter king’s op-ed “Local triumphs on a night Republicans didn’t expect” (Nov. 13-19), by his statement, “Curtis Sliwa siphoned off votes that might have made the difference.”

Even when adding Sliwa’s 7.1 percent of the vote to Andrew Cuomo’s 41.6 percent in the New York City mayoral election, they still fall significantly short of

In a litany of steps we need to take to improve our system, a few stand out. The government desperately needs to lower prescription drug costs. The Biden administration passed legislation that allowed Medicare to negotiate prices on 25 drugs, but we need more. President Trump said himself that Big Pharma is “getting away with murder.”

We need to do a much better job on preventive care. People need to be healthier, and medical issues must be addressed long before they spiral out of control. Doing so will save money and

I’ve been in public service for the better part of 30 years, as the mayor of Glen Cove, Nassau County executive, and now in Congress. I’ve learned that one-party solutions are fleeting, easily replaced. We need a bipartisan fix now, and over the next two years I pledge to work with my colleagues in the Problem Solvers Caucus — a bipartisan group of members that I co-chair, that is committed to solving complex problems — to develop a robust health care framework that lowers costs for generations to come.

Tom Suozzi represents the 3rd Congressional District.

Framework by Tim Baker

Zohran Mamdani’s decisive victory. I’m not sure why there’s the need to minimize Mamdani’s popularity. Clearly he’s resonating with a lot of people, and I don’t think pretending

that he’s not will be useful or productive for the next election cycle.