Members of the Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce board and the organization’s Centennial Committee joined Mayor Ed Fare and village trustees on Nov. 24 to be recognized for their contributions to the village’s centennial celebration. Honorees gathered at Village Hall for a commemorative photo.
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
The Valley Stream board of trustees focused its Nov. 24 meeting at Village Hall on recognizing community members whose work, in the view of village officials, continues to strengthen the village’s fabric.
Before beginning regular business, Mayor Ed Fare and the trustees highlighted contributions from a local business owner and from organizations that played key roles throughout Valley Stream’s year-long cenCoNtiNuEd oN pagE 6
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
WinterFest was set to return to Arthur J. Hendrickson Park in Valley Stream this week with a full slate of holiday season activities, including a month-long display of lights and expanded involvement from the community.
Organized by the village, the popular event has grown steadily over the years, and now anchors the start of the winter holiday season for many local families.
WinterFest began in the winter of 2011 after Mayor Ed Fare took office, expanding on the
village’s ongoing traditional events. The new event introduced Santa’s annual arrival by the Valley Stream Fire Department and photo sessions inside Village Hall. As WinterFest grew, it moved to the band shell area and gradually added more lights, inflatable decorations, costumes, activities and themed displays.
“Of all the great events that the village sponsors throughout the year, WinterFest is probably the most special,” Fare said.
During the pandemic, WinterFest adapted to a drivethrough format at the village pool parking lot, allowing fami-
lies to experience a full Santa display staffed with characters and elves while remaining in their cars. Organizers described the feature as one of the most successful introduced during that time, leading to the decision to move the event entirely into Hendrickson Park. Since then, the village has developed a large, illuminated holiday setup centered around the gazebo and its tree, eventually expanding the display to remain lit for the entire month of December.
This year’s WinterFest will unfold over four days, from Thursday through Sunday, preceded by nightly Santa runs
through various Valley Stream neighborhoods, from 6 to 9 p.m.
The fire department planned to escort Santa through the village night by night, starting in the area west of Central Avenue on Monday and continuing in the section east of Central on Tuesday and the Gibson neighborhood on Wednesday, concluding with a loop through
Mill Brook on Thursday. WinterFest will begin with a soft opening on Thursday, from 6 to 9 p.m., and the full event will take place during the same timeframe on Friday. Activities will continue through Sunday, including morning breakfasts and afternoon gatherings. Thursday evening’s soft
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
The Valley Stream Kiwanis Club recently completed a community service initiative supporting local veterans who visit the Long Island Cares West Nassau Center for Food Assistance and Community Support on Rockaway Avenue.
The project was organized after club members learned that Long Island Cares had opened a Valley Stream location last year and offers weekly hours dedicated specifically to veterans and service members through its “Military Appreciation Tuesdays.”
“They gave us a list of items that are in high demand and hard to keep in stock and we went to work,” Kiwanis Club President Tina Castelluzzo said.
In response, the Kiwanis Club coordinated a collection drive across multiple local sites, placing donation bins in the lobbies of all schools within the Valley Stream Central High School District as well as in the Henry Waldinger Memorial Library and Uniondale Public Library.
Community members contributed a range of personal care items, including shampoo, soap, toothpaste and other toiletries. After the collection period, Kiwanis volunteers sorted the donations and assembled 88 individual care packages for veterans who use the pantry.
Staff at the site expressed strong appreciation for the contribution, noting the meaningful support it provides to veter-
ans who rely on the Tuesday program.
“We wanted to express our heartfelt gratitude to the Veterans, whose bravery, selflessness and dedication inspire us all,” Castelluzzo said.
The project reflects an ongoing effort by the Kiwanis Club to partner with local organizations and direct volunteer activities toward unmet community needs. By coordinating with Long Island Cares and
A close-up of a finished care package displays a sticker reading “Kiwanis Club of Valley Stream thanks you for your service,” marking the donation prepared for veterans.
local public institutions, the club aimed to strengthen the resources available to veterans in the region and increase awareness of the services provided at the Valley Stream location.
James A. Dever Elementary School held an inflatable race organized by the Parent-Teacher Association to thank students, families and staff and to celebrate the success of this year’s Raise Craze fundraiser.
Students, school principal Darren Gruen, teachers, faculty, superintendents and PTA members participated in the race, wearing inflatable costumes and gathering for a light-hearted event ahead of Thanksgiving.
The school completed its second year with Raise Craze, a fundraising model in which students earn donations by performing acts of kindness rather than selling products. The program was introduced to the school by former PTA Co-Presidents Rosina Fusillo and Samanta Shaw, in collaboration with the school social worker, to align fundraising efforts with the “Kindness Matters” program.
Students reached out to family and friends for support and then completed various community-oriented actions.
These included writing thank-you notes, assisting neighbors, contributing to school beautification efforts, participating in letter-writing campaigns for first responders and sanitation workers, collecting items for a food drive and assembling care packages for hospital staff. Participation was encouraged through daily kindness challenges, and a rotating trophy recognized classes that completed the highest number of acts.
An Acts of Service Night on Oct. 21 in the school gym offered additional opportunities for students to take part in on-site community activities such as creating cards for local organizations and decorating outdoor walkways.
Raise Craze retains over 90 percent of contributions for the school. Dever reached its $20,000 fundraising goal, with funds directed toward projects that enhance the school environment and educational programming.
— Angelina Zingariello
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.
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
The Fifth Squad reports the arrest of a Valley Stream man for an incident that occurred on Nov. 29 at 1:40 p.m. in Valley Stream. According to detectives, officers responded to a disturbance call at a residence located on Rose Avenue. Upon their arrival at the scene, the responding officers were informed that the defendant, identified as Jesse DeMarco, 38, had allegedly brandished a tan handgun towards a landscaper who was working on an adjacent, nearby property. After conducting a thorough investigation, the defendant was successfully located close to the scene. As police attempted to take him into custody and conduct the arrest, he allegedly
became confrontational and resisted the process of the arrest. Further investigation and subsequent action by the police led to the discovery and recovery of a Ruger .380 caliber firearm, a Sig Sauer 9mm caliber firearm and a switchblade knife.
Defendant DeMarco has been charged with two counts of criminal possession of a weapon, one count of menacing and one count of resisting arrest. He was arraigned on Nov. 30 at the First District Court, located at 99 Main St. in Hempstead. His next scheduled court appearance is set for Dec. 8.
— Angelina Zingariello
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.
or a professional, may be the answer to such a
situation.
Sylvan Place will once again come alive this holiday season with its annual block party, continuing a beloved tradition that has brought the community together for over a decade.
Set for Dec. 13 from 6 to 10 p.m., the event promises an evening filled with festive cheer and familiar comforts for families and visitors alike.
For more than 30 years, Sylvan Place in Valley Stream has been known for its dazzling holiday displays, evolving from a friendly neighborhood competition into a cherished community gathering. The block party, which has been part of the festivities since 2014, transforms the
street into a pedestrian-friendly zone where neighbors and visitors enjoy the warmth of shared celebration amid colorful lights and decorations.
This year’s block party will feature free hot dogs, hot chocolate and candy canes — treats that have long been staples of the event. Adding to the holiday spirit, Santa Claus will make his grand arrival from 7 to 9 p.m., handing out gifts to children and inviting them to share their wish lists.
Continuing the tradition of community support, a donation box will be positioned in front of 80 Sylvan Pl. for attendees wishing to contribute. The
donations collected will benefit two local charities: Sunrise Day Camp, supporting families of children battling cancer and Camp ANCHOR, which aids individuals with special needs in the Town of Hempstead. These causes hold special significance for the neighborhood, commemorating two former residents whose memories continue to inspire generosity and kindness within the community.
Despite past challenges, including severe weather and the global pandemic, the Sylvan Place block party has remained a steadfast symbol of neighborhood unity and holiday spirit. Its
ability to bring people together — whether through shared laughter, festive treats or acts of giving — continues to define the event’s enduring charm. This year’s celebration invites everyone to join in the warmth of tradition, offering an opportunity to reconnect, celebrate and contribute to meaningful causes, all against the backdrop of a street aglow with holiday light and goodwill. The spirit of Sylvan Place shines brighter than ever as the community once again gathers to make memories that last a lifetime.
— Angelina Zingariello
tennial celebration.
The first recognition went to Darlene J. Edwards, founder of The Best Goodie Bag Inc., who was honored by the Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce at the 40th Annual Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce Businessperson of the Year and Legislative Breakfast. The event, held on Oct. 31 at the Crest Hollow Country Club, celebrated 36 honorees from across Nassau County.
“I did not know or pay attention to people who were paying attention to us, because it’s something that we do from our heart,” Edwards said. “We’re not making a lot of money, but we have a passion, and I appreciate it so much because it makes me realize that people do see and understand, and it makes a difference, and it makes me feel like I want to keep going.”
At the meeting, the mayor invited Edwards to the podium and noted the bakery’s strong presence within the Valley Stream community. Village officials noted how familiar the business has become to residents and how frequently people in the village, including board members, visit the shop. Edwards attended the meeting with members of her family, who joined her as she received the village citation.
Edwards’ Valley Stream business is a family-run cakery known for custom cakes, banana pudding, cookies, cup -
cakes and other desserts. She discovered her interest in baking after preparing desserts for her mother’s 84th birthday celebration. Following more than twenty years of service with the New York Police Department — including nine years as a police sergeant — she shifted her focus to baking. On Oct. 31, 2018, she opened the storefront with her daughters and niece.
“If you haven’t been there, you’re missing out,” Fare said. “We’ve all been there one time or another. I’ve been in a few times. It’s fantastic.”
Since opening, her business has gained recognition locally and beyond.
Edwards completed the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program, was featured on a Netflix baking competition, and has completed catering assignments for large organizations, including Goldman Sachs and The Oprah Winfrey Network.
After honoring Edwards, the Board recognized the Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce for its extensive participation in the village’s centennial events. Chamber board members present at the meeting were invited to join the mayor at the front of the room.
“Everyone knows this was our 100-anniversary year, and we had events running the entire year,” Fare said. “And the chamber participated in almost all of those efforts.”
The chamber took part in vendor and
food-truck markets, participated in the village’s centennial parade and contributed to the centennial block party held on the Village Green. The Board emphasized that the chamber’s engagement helped sustain momentum across the year-long celebration.
Members of the Centennial Committee were also invited forward and acknowledged. The committee assisted in planning and supporting the year’s events, and its members were involved in coordinating parade activities and the centennial programs as a whole.
mayor ed fare and the village trustees honored darlene J. edwards, owner of the Best goodie Bag inc., with a citation at the board’s nov. 24 meeting, where other key community contributions were recognized.
By spotlighting a local entrepreneur whose business has become part of the village’s identity and organizations whose volunteerism and coordination shaped a milestone year, the meeting underscored the Board’s view that community contributions reinforce Valley Stream’s sense of cohesion.
The recognitions reflected the village’s effort to highlight the people and groups who play a role in strengthening community life as Valley Stream concludes its centennial year and looks ahead to its next chapter.
opening will feature jitney rides, fire barrels for warmth and children’s arts and crafts at the Community Center. On Friday, those activities will continue as the full celebration begins, with the addition of the village tree lighting, food trucks, the Christmas market, letters to Santa and hot chocolate served by the Boy Scouts. Santa will arrive by fire truck around 7 p.m. to take photos in his sleigh and student singing groups from local schools are set to perform on both Friday and Saturday evenings.
Breakfast with Santa, sponsored by McDonald’s, will be held Saturday and Sunday, from 9 a.m. to noon. Saturday evening’s activities will run from 5 to 9 p.m., and the festival will conclude Sunday afternoon with outdoor photos with Santa, from noon to 5 p.m.
“It really sets the tone for the village residents to really get into the spirit of Christmas,” Jimmy Fitanzo, the village’s recreation director, said. “It’s their first opportunity as a family to go and do something Christmassy and just get all into the event and get all festive. I think it’s a starting point, a kickoff to what families do on around Christmas.
“It takes away from the shopping and all that stuff,” he continued. “It just gives them an opportunity to come here, spend a couple of hours and make a memory. And it’s all about making memories.”
Plans for WinterFest begin immediately after the pool season ends, around Labor Day, followed by meetings to outline the year’s plans. Installation begins around Halloween, with support from
multiple departments, including the Department of Public Works, highway, pool maintenance, recreation, electrical and parks. Crews spend around 30 to 35 days setting up lights, using bucket
trucks to reach trees and displays.
This year, the village also expanded opportunities for local businesses to participate by adding new LED holiday displays. Each display includes signage recognizing the participating sponsor, giving local establishments a visible role in the community celebration.
Rich DeAngelis, the village’s deputy clerk, noted that families often end up staying longer than they expect once they begin walking through the park’s displays, so a little preparation goes a long way.
“Dress warm, definitely dress warm,” DeAngelis said. “You don’t realize when you’re out there, and you’re coming in, and you start spending some time, you find yourself you’re there for almost an hour and a half, two hours. You can get kind of cold. Definitely take advantage of the fire barrels, because they will warm you up.”
Organizers also encouraged turning the evening into a longer outing by exploring displays, participating in crafts, visiting food trucks, supporting local groups and building personal traditions around the event.
Resident feedback has remained positive, with families returning each year and continuing to visit the park throughout December, organizers said. Visitors often return throughout the month to take photos and enjoy the lights and displays, they added.
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
The LuminoCity Festival, a popular holiday lights extravaganza, is back at Nassau County’s Eisenhower Park this winter with an all-new theme and attractions.
This year’s theme, “Fantasy Winter Fairyland,” transforms 14 acres of the park into one of the largest immersive walk-through light festivals in the country, featuring dazzling light displays, towering sculptures, and countless photo opportunities.
“Each time we return to this remarkable venue is yet another opportunity to deliver on a promise we renew annually — to create indelible holiday memories for each and every one of our guests,” Xiaoyi Chen, founder and chief executive of LuminoCity said. “We are proud to partner with Nassau County once more to present this showcase event, and are beyond thrilled that it has become a tradition for so many in the community. Long Island is our home, and there is no place like home for the holidays.”
Among this year’s attractions are a spectacular 50-foot “Castle in the Sky” — one of the tallest light sculptures in North America — a four-story Christmas tree, and millions of LED lights, enough to blanket the Brooklyn Bridge. The festival will also feature winning submissions from the annual Lumi’s Utopia children’s art initiative, now in its fifth year. In partnership with the Long Island Children’s Museum, the program transforms kids’ hand-drawn creations into illuminated 3D sculptures.
“I am proud to welcome LuminoCity’s Holiday Lights Festival back to Nassau County’s Eisenhower Park for the 2025 winter season,” said Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman. “Each year, this spectacular attraction draws tens of thousands of visitors from across Long Island and beyond, boosting our local economy and showcasing Nassau County as a premier destination for family-friendly events. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or visiting for the first time, I invite everyone to come experience the magic of LuminoCity right here in Eisenhower Park.”
The Eisenhower Park event remains LuminoCity’s longest-running signature festival. Since its debut in 2022, more than 160,000 guests have attended.
For more information, visit LuminoCityFestival.com.
go:
Where: Eisenhower Park, East Meadow
When: Open now through Jan. 1, 2026
Theme: Fantasy Winter Fairyland — featuring 14 acres of dazzling lights, towering sculptures, and immersive displays
Highlights:
■ 50-foot “Castle in the Sky,” one of the tallest light sculptures in North America
■ Lumi’s Utopia children’s art installations in partnership with the Long Island Children’s Museum
Tickets & Information: LuminoCityFestival.com
At Herald Community Newspapers, we’re celebrating you — with an exciting opportunity to take home $15,000 in cash!
It’s simple and completely free to enter.
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By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
The New York Islanders’ Children’s Foundation, in partnership with UBS, purchased and distributed 200 meals on Nov. 24 to local families ahead of Thanksgiving. The Islanders’ Children’s Foundation partners with local community groups and nonprofit organizations, including Island Harvest, Long Island Cares, Veteran Beacon House, Gateway Youth Outreach and Rock and Wrap it Up, to identify families in need.
The distributed meals were purchased from Stew Leonard’s and included a turkey, four sides, dessert and dinner rolls. Volunteers from UBS and members of the New York Islanders, including former player Butch Goring, and Islanders defenseman Ryan Pulock, as we all players’ significant others were onsite to distribute meals.
In a press package, shared with the Herald by the New York Islanders, Pulock said, “It’s special to have this opportunity just to do something small, make people smile, make families be able to come together and have a nice meal together. That’s what it’s all about.”
The Islanders Children’s Foundation, a registered nonprofit, was created in 2003 under the leadership of late-Islanders owner Charles Wang, who had a passion to help children and provide them with the best opportunities to live happy, healthy and successful lives.
Its mission is dedicated to serving local
communities, now and in the future. It supports, educates and develops area youth while investing in local families and community wellbeing. The foundation also supports nonprofit organizations that share its common mission, developing programs that create a lasting legacy.
Current ownership shares Wang’s values, and is committed to being a leader in the philanthropic causes that continue to make the Children’s Foundation a staple in the Long Island community. The Children’s Foundation celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2023.
Goring, in a video package shared with the Herald, said the appreciation of community members served was “very obvious.”
“Everybody is very thankful to be able to go home and share a meal, not only with themselves, but certainly with friends,” he said.
Athletes, he added, are in a position to give back.
“I think all of us athletes, we recognize that we’re fortunate,” he said. “We don’t have to worry about our next meal. It’s going to be there for us. There are many people who are less fortunate, so when you can help out and make Thanksgiving, which is such a special day, and you can make that a little more special for them — it has a lot of merit.”
For more on the work of the Islanders Children’s Foundation, visit NHL.com/ Islanders.
Update to rates of subscription plans :
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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
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.
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.
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
Nassau County Museum of Art invites visitors into a world where reality is uncertain, dreams take shape, and the line between fact and imagination disappears. From dreamlike landscapes and uncanny portraits to images so exact they look like photographs, works in “Real, Surreal, and Photoreal” challenge what we see and what we believe. This exhibit explores how artists across generations have reimagined “the real” in strikingly different ways. Works from both American and European artists are featured. On view through March 8.
• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor
• Time: Ongoing
• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337
Celebrate the holiday season at Valley Stream’s annual Winterfest. Enjoy festive activities, entertainment, and family fun throughout the weekend A.J. Hendrickson Park. Santa arrives on his sleigh at to spread joy and holiday cheer!
• Where: 123 W. Merrick Road
• Time: Ongoing, through Dec. 7; tree lighting with Santa on Dec. 5 at 7 p.m.
• Contact: valleystreamny.gov
Join the community for the annual Valley Stream Tree Lighting during Winterfest. Santa arrives on his sleigh at to spread joy and holiday cheer!
• Where: A.J. Hendrickson Park
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: valleystreamny.gov
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
delicious cookies and cider in our West Porch. The party features Lucky Duck Puppets’ holiday show, at 7 p.m.The Winter Holiday Puppet Show is an original story about Greg, a North Pole penguin trying to find his place in the world and how he can help spread holiday cheer! $25, $22 ages 3-12 (20% member discount. Advance registration required
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 6-8 p.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
Families are invited to decorate snowmen as part of this festive community event at Pagan-Fletcher Restoration.
• Where: 143 Hendrickson Ave.
• Time: 2 p.m.
• Contact: vshistorical@gmail. com
• 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..
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
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
Families can enjoy a continental-style breakfast with Santa at the Community Center. Tickets are required for admission and must be purchased in advance; $20 per person; tickets available at the Pool Complex Lobby and Community Center
• Where: 123 W. Merrick Road
• Time: 9 a.m., also Dec. 7
• Contact: valleystreamny.gov
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
Enjoy the warmth of the season at the Gibson Station Tree Lighting. Gather with neighbors for music, lights and festive spirit as the holiday tree is illuminated.
• Where: Gibson LIRR
• Time: 6 p.m.
• Contact: valleystreamny.gov
Step into the magic of Christmas at Old Westbury Gardens’ Westbury House! Bring the kids a festive night filled with holiday fun! Explore, through a self-guided tour, the beautifully decorated mansion with a special Christmas scavenger hunt. Get creative at Christmas craft stations, making holiday keepsakes to take home. Meet Santa Claus himself, share your wish list and snap a photo to capture the moment. Enjoy
Celebrate the season at the annual Menorah lighting at Firemen’s Memorial Plaza.
• Where: 120 Albemarle Ave.
• Time: 4:30 p.m.
• Contact: valleystreamny.gov
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
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.
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF NASSAU
U.S. Bank National Association, as Indenture Trustee for American Home Mortgage Investment Trust 2005-4C, Plaintiff AGAINST Edwin Espana; Marvin Vargas; et al., Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered August 28, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on December 16, 2025, at 2:00PM, premises known as 20 West Oxford Street, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements there erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 37 Block 87 Lots 9 & 10. Approximate amount of judgment
$711,095.71 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 607989/2023.
Foreclosure auction will be held “Rain or Shine”.
Lawrence Schaffer, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792
Dated: October 31, 2025 For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2831 156805
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK
COUNTY OF NASSAU
MORTGAGE ASSETS
MANAGEMENT, LLC, -againstLINDA TOLKIN, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF CAROLE SCHENENDORF, ET AL.
NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on September 24, 2025,
wherein MORTGAGE ASSETS
MANAGEMENT, LLC is the Plaintiff and LINDA TOLKIN, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF CAROLE SCHENENDORF, ET AL., are the Defendants. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, NORTH SIDE STEPS, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on December 16, 2025 at 2:00PM, the premises known as 1036 FURTH ROAD, VALLEY STREAM, NY 11581; tax map identification 39-512-27; and description: ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT VALLEY STREAM, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 609059/2023. Heather D. Crosley, Esq., as Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 156801
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF ACE SECURITIES CORP. HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2007-WM1, ASSET BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, -againstOMONUWA OMOGUN, ET AL.
NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of
Nassau on September 30, 2024, wherein HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF ACE SECURITIES CORP. HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2007-WM1, ASSET BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES is the Plaintiff and OMONUWA OMOGUN, ET AL., are the Defendants. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, NORTH SIDE STEPS, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on December 18, 2025 at 2:00PM, the premises known as 2 WALLACE COURT, VALLEY STREAM, NY 11580; tax map identification 37-33602-38; and description: ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF VALLEY STREAM, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK . . . Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 001570/2016. Ronald J. Ferraro, Esq., as Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 156884 LEGAL NOTICE SUMMONS AND NOTICE OF OBJECT OF ACTION STATE OF NEW YORK SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF NASSAU ACTION TO FORECLOSE A TAX LIEN INDEX NO.: 619941/2023, HARVEY WEISMAN, Plaintiff, vs. PAULINE CHRISTIANSEN, if such person be living, if such person be dead, such person’s respective heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees,
lienors, creditors, and successors in interest, and generally all persons having or claiming under, by, or through such person, if such person be dead, whether by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise, including any right, title or interest in and to the real property described in the complaint herein, all of who and whose names and places of residence are unknown to the plaintiff, Defendants.
PREMISES SUBJECT TO TAX LIEN: 5 Wood Lane, Valley Stream, NY 11580, Section 39, Block 479, Lot 30. TO THE ABOVE NAMED
DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action, to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with the summons, to serve notice of appearance, on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this summons, exc1usive of the date of service (or within thirty (30) days after the service is complete if this summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York), and in case of failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. Plaintiff designates Nassau County as the place of trial. The basis of venue is the location of the subject property.
NOTICE-YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the tax lien holder who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the tax lien holder will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (TAX LIEN HOLDER) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.
Dated: November 24, 2025. Michael Ehrenreich, Attorney for Plaintiff, 555 Willow Ave., Cedarhurst, NY, (516) 942-4216. The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of HON.
JEFFREY A. GOODSTEIN of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, dated November 10, 2025. Such order and the Complaint in this action are filed in the office of the Nassau County Clerk, in Mineola, NY. The object of this action is to foreclose a tax lien on the premises identified above.
156959
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE TO LIENHOLDERS/CREDITO
RS is hereby given that any person not a party to the action who has a lien on the property or an undivided share of the property must appear to prove their lien at 10:00 a.m. on January 26, 2026 by submitting all proof of lien or ownership interest to the Referee, John B. Riordan, Esq., at 1305 Franklin Avenue, Suite 300, Garden City, NY 11530. This Notice is being published in accordance with the requirements of Real Property Actions and Proceeding Law, commonly known as RPAPL 913, to all persons who may have an interest in the sale of the Property located at 33 Miriam Street, Valley Stream, New York 11580, Section 39, Blk 24, Lot 67,68 and 116. This notice is published in connection with the case: ALLISON BARIBAULT, as Executrix of the Goods, Chattels and Credits of JACQUELINE F. DEXTER, Deceased vs, RICHARD DEXTER, JAMES DEXTER and ROBERT DEXTER, pursuant to the Interlocutory Judgment of the Hon. Gary M. Carlton under Index No.: 617699/2024. This is a partition action.
The Property will be sold at a public auction on January 27, 2026 at 10:30 am pursuant to RPAPL Section 231(1) in one parcel, on the North steps of the Supreme Court, Nassau County, located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, New York under the direction of John B. Riordan, Esq.,
court appointed Referee, PO Box 508, Williston Park, New York 11596-0508516-606-1238. Notice is being published once a week for four consecutive weeks in the Valley Stream Herald. 156915
LEGAL NOTICE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF VALLEY STREAM
123 So. Central Avenue Valley Stream, New York 11580 516-592-5105
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Public Hearing will be held by the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream at Village Hall, 123 S. Central Avenue, Valley Stream, NY 11580, on the 15th day of December, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. to consider the adoption of Proposed Local Law 22025 - A LOCAL LAW AMENDING CHAPTER 59 OF THE VILLAGE CODE ENTITLED, “PEACE AND GOOD ORDER”, BY AMENDING §59-1 (C). All parties of interest and citizens shall have an opportunity to be heard concerning the Local Law at the time and place advertised, or by joining the public hearing with the following ZOOM link: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/7148140969
The Proposed Local Law will be posted on the Village’s website and on file in the Office of the Village Clerk/Administrator prior to the hearing and may be examined during regular business hours.
Dated: Valley Stream, New York December 4, 2025 By Order of the Board of Trustees Incorporated Village of Valley Stream JAMES J. HUNTER Village Clerk/Administrator 157074
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWMBS, INC., CHL MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH TRUST, SERIES 2007-18, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES
2007-18, Plaintiff, vs. WARREN RICHARD HARTLEY A/K/A WARREN HARTLEY, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 2, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 8, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 968 Bowe Road West a/k/a 968 West Bowe Road, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37, Block 641 and Lot 66. Approximate amount of judgment is $864,783.84 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #610334/2023. Steven E. Losquardo, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 230114-1 157077
LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE TO INTERESTED PARTIESCPLR ARTICLE 52 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the undersigned judgment creditor will seek relief pursuant to CPLR Article 52 for judicial completion of an outstanding execution issued on 1/29/2025, relating to the real property located at: 10 Frank Street Valley Stream, NY 11580, County Of Nassau. The execution has been returned partially unsatisfied, and no personal property of the judgment debtor has been identified to satisfy the judgment. The real property referenced above is subject to levy, and no known adverse claimants have appeared of record. Any person or entity asserting an interest in the property, or opposing completion of the execution, must file a written statement of interest with the Supreme Court, Nassau
County, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501, on or before: 01/15/2026. Failure to respond may result in the Court proceeding by default and granting relief necessary to complete the execution, including any conveyance or transfer authorized by operation of law, without further notice.
Dated: 12/04/2025 The Fitzgerald Living Estate Trust; Address: 80 W. Sunrise Hwy suite 1047, Valley Stream, NY 11581 157064
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU FREEDOM MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Plaintiff AGAINST MARVALYN MCKENZIE, DASHAWN DEROSIN, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered July 31, 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 6, 2026 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 4 Sheridan Street, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37 Block 185 Lot 39. Approximate amount of judgment $619,486.41 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #615650/2022. Brian J. Davis, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-003754 87709 157003
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU DLJ MORTGAGE CAPITAL, INC., Plaintiff AGAINST KELVIN GALLOWAY, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 1, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the
Valley Stream South High School student Jia Ru Yang has earned first place in Hofstra University’s 2025 Celebration of Suburban Diversity Student Essay Contest.
H er essay focused on the challenges bilingual students face, including daily insensitivities and implicit biases. Yang’s writing also highlighted the strength and contributions multilingual students bring to the community. The judges recognized her work for its insightful exploration of diversity issues on Long Island, awarding her a $3,000 scholarship.
“We are incredibly proud of Jia Ru for
this astonishing accomplishment,” Matthew Swinson, principal of Valley Stream South High School, said. “Her success in this important contest is a testament to her talent, hard work, and insightful perspective.”
Ru received formal recognition and her scholarship certificate during the event held on Nov. 18 at Crest Hollow Country Club. The scholarship will be awarded after her graduation and acceptance into an accredited higher education institution.
Angelina Zingariello
Nassau
Five seniors from the Valley Stream Central High School District have been recognized as Commended Students in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program.
T he students include Mishal Javed, Adrita Halder and Kritika Jassal from Central High School, along with Andre Fernandez and Aleeza Akhtar from South High School.
T hese students are among approximately 34,000 nationwide to receive the Commended Student distinction, which places them in the top 50,000 scorers out of more than 1.3 million entrants. This recognition is awarded to students who achieve a Selection Index score of 210 or higher on the PSAT, representing about
the top three percent of all test takers. T he National Merit Scholarship Program is a nationwide academic competition for recognition and scholarships. It begins with the PSAT/NMSQT exam taken by high school juniors. Based on their scores, students may earn distinctions such as Commended Student or Semifinalist, with some advancing to become finalists and scholarship recipients.
The program highlights high academic achievement and provides opportunities for scholarships and recognition at the national level.
Angelina Zingariello
Fax your ad to: 516-622-7460
E-mail your ad to: ereynolds@liherald.com
E-mail Finds Under
school year.
We require mature individuals to provide quality childcare to elementary school aged children between the hours of 2:30pm to 6:00pm weekdays.
Minimum 3 afternoons per week
Experience helpful
Competitive hourly wage
If interested email merrickbasp@aol.com or Call (516) 379-4245.
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
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
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
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
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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 IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
This stunning oceanfront retreat is perfectly positioned on the Atlantic, offering panoramic water views from private decks on all three levels, including a beachfront deck, a main-level terrace, and an exclusive balcony off the luxurious primary suite. The primary suite also features a cozy fireplace and a brand-new spa-inspired bathroom with radiant heated floors. With five spacious bedrooms and the potential to add a sixth,
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.
Beach's vibrant West End, just steps from the sand and within walking distance to the area's top restaurants, cafes, and boutiques, this is coastal living at its finest.
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.
DOLL HOUSE MINIATURES & ACCESSORIES FOR SALE. Under $99.00. Call Joy Evenings, 917-743-7695 Leave Message
TUPPERWARE CHRISTMAS VILLAGE Vintage set, lights up, 12 pieces total including 5 buildings, $55, 516-884-9994. SERVICES
Cable/TV/Wiring
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Electricians
E-Z ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC. All Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas. Services/Repairs. Violations Removed. Free Estimates Low Rates. 516-785-0646 Lic/Ins.
BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-833-807-0159
CARPENTRY & PAINTING: Residential/ Commercial. All Phases. Licensed/Insured. FREE ESTIMATES! Anthony & J Home Improvements 516-678-6641
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PREPARE FOR POWER outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-877-516-1160 today to schedule a free quote. It's not just a generator. It's a power move.
PREPARE FOR POWER outages with Briggs & Stratton® PowerProtect(TM) standby generators - the most powerful home standby generators available. Industry-leading comprehensive warranty - 7 years ($849 value.) Proudly made in the U.S.A. Call Briggs & Stratton 1-888-605-1496
ROOFING, CHIMNEY & SKYLIGHT
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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.
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.
the 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.
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
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.
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.
mountsinai.org/southnassau