The “gateway to Jones Beach” was covered in snow after Sunday’s snowstorm, which ushered in more cold weather throughout the tristate area. Story, Page 10.
...by Fine Print, Hidden Fees, or False Claims.
DEADLINE APPROACHING!
LEADER IN PROPERTY TAX REDUCTION
By lUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com
A new chapter is underway at the Seaford Wellness Council, as two community-minded residents—Laura MetzdorffRivera and Hal Udell—step into the organization’s top leadership roles, focusing on collaboration, inclusion and hands-on impact.
Metzdorff-Rivera, a practicing acupuncturist at her Aligned Wellness Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine, in Wantagh, and a PTA board member at Seaford Harbor Elementary School, is now the president of the nonprofit group.
WChocolate 5K Run/Walk each December, which begins and ends in front of Seaford High School.
Metzdorff-Rivera said she found her way to the council in 2021 after returning to Seaford with her family following nearly 15 years in the San Francisco Bay Area, where she co-founded Earth & Air Wellness Acupuncture and Alternative Medicine.
e’re all in this together to make a better, happier place to live.
HAl UdEll
Vice president,
Seaford Wellness Council
Udell, a culinary entrepreneur who runs Cooking with Hal, has taken over as vice president.
The Seaford Wellness Council, a volunteer-run organization of teachers, parents, business owners and civic leaders, promotes positive change through community programs and events. One of its most visible efforts is the annual Hot
“I was born and raised here,” she said. “I wanted to raise my family closer to their grandparents. And I really missed it here. It’s small, but there’s a lot going on, and there are good people.”
After discovering the council online, she attended a meeting—and never looked back.
“It’s really important to give back,” she said. “There was room for the next generation of us.”
Metzdorff-Rivera and Udell were tapped to lead the group last fall, following a wave of resignations from longtime
Continued on page 7
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By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com
Students in Wantagh High School’s National English Honor Society wrapped up a successful book drive this month, resulting in hundreds of donated books for children and families in need.
The monthlong collection, which ran from Dec. 8 to Jan. 8, benefited The Book Fairies, a Long Island-based nonprofit that collects and redistributes books to under-resourced communities across Long Island, New York City and beyond.
On the last day of the drive, officers gathered up all of the donations from the lobby and brought them to English Honor Society adviser Alisa Lopera’s room to be organized and boxed. The charitable initiative was spearheaded by seniors Lea Vagnone, the honor society’s vice president, and social media manager Sophia Zanelotti.
To promote the drive, the honor society made posters to hang around the school, had a message placed on the morning announcements and got the word out on social media. Wantagh High School students or staff could donate new or gently used books for all ages, with a majority of donations being children’s books. “It was a huge success,” Vagnone said. “I’m very proud of how many books we’ve collected for the drive. It’s going to help a lot of people, especially young kids, who are going to now have more access to books.”
By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com
Pitbull, the Cuban-American rapper and global music star, is bringing his high-energy live show back to Long Island this summer.
The Grammy-winning artist will perform at Northwell at Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh on Aug. 25 as part of his newly announced 2025 North American tour. The tour kicks off May 14 in West Palm Beach, Florida, and will wrap up Sept. 26 in Shakopee, Minnesota.
“USA, I’m BACK!!” Pitbull wrote on Instagram on Jan. 15, sharing the tour dates with fans. Tickets and presale information are available at PitbullMusic.com.
Pitbull, born Armando Christian Pérez, is known for blending hip-hop, pop, and Latin styles into global hits like “Give Me Everything” and “Timber.” His last Jones Beach performance was in September 2024 as part of his “Party After Dark” tour, featuring T-Pain and DJ Laz, with a surprise appearance by Jon Bon Jovi.
Fans can visit NorthwellatJonesBeachTheater.com for venue details, including directions, parking info and concert-day policies. ones Beach Theater has hosted a wide range of major artists over the years — from rock legends and country stars to pop sensations — making it one of Long Island’s premier outdoor concert venues.
Pitbull, the Cuban-American rapper and global music
Beach Theater.
By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com
Nassau University Medical Center has received $109.6 million in funding from New York state, an investment announced by Gov. Kathy Hochul in a release on Jan. 15. According to the release, the funding reflects the state’s “recognition of the hospital’s progress under new leadership and its commitment to stabilizing operations while preserving access to essential health care services for Long Island residents.”
It’s been a turbulent year at NUMC, Long Island’s only public hospital. It provides health care to all residents, including the undocumented and uninsured — regardless of their ability to pay. Due to provisions that passed in the state’s budget in 2025, a restructured board was implemented at NUMC, shifting control of the hospital from Nassau County leadership to Hochul and state Democrats.
Fiscal Year 2025-2026, which ends this March. VAPAP provides assistance to hospitals and health care providers facing financial distress. $27.5 million was provided through an Inter-Governmental Transfer associated with enhanced Federal Medical Assistance Percentage funding tied to the coronavirus pandemic.
Of the VAPAP award, $25 million was received in August 2025, with the remaining $57.1 million anticipated in the first quarter of 2026. The $57. 1 million, along with the additional $27.5 million, was not reflected in NUMC’s previously approved budget. The combined funding, according to last week’s release, will reduce the hospital’s projected 2026 operating loss from $167.1 million to $82.5 million.
In addition, the state also granted the Nassau Interim Finance Authority, a public benefit corporation, expanded oversight, including the ability to approve hospital contracts exceeding $1 million.
A majority of the new board members at NUMC were named by Hochul throughout last year, who also designated the chairman, Stuart Rabinowitz, a former president of Hofstra University.
Thomas Stokes was tapped to lead the hospital as its chief executive officer in late-2025, and began his role earlier this month. With over 25 years of experience overseeing finance and operations in toptier health care institutions, his appointment, according to a Jan. 1 release, “brings deep expertise and a longstanding commitment to public service” to the hospital.
$82.1 million of the funding announced last week was provided through the state’s Department of Health’s Vital Access Provider Assurance Program, also known as VAPAP, for
NUMC, in the release, said the state’s investment helps it build on a year of “decisive action” under the direction of the hospital’s new board, now with Stokes stepping into the chief executive role. In his first days of leadership. Stokes has identified major opportunities to strengthen performance, while efforts to tighten financial oversight, contain costs, and improve revenue and operational efficiency continue to take hold. Stokes remarked that he was “deeply committed to restoring and strengthening this hospital for the patients and communities that depend on us.”
“With this critical investment, we can continue building a stronger, more stable future for NUMC — one that delivers the quality, access, and accountability our residents deserve,” he said.
“The board is deeply appreciative of Gov. Hochul and the Department of Health for their confidence in NUMC’s direction and leadership,” Rabinowitz added. “This funding acknowledges the difficult but necessary reforms underway and provides the financial runway needed to continue stabilizing operations, improving care delivery, and positioning the hospital for long-term sustainability.”
By CHRIS COLUCCI
ccolucci@liherald.com
When many people consider “donating,” they might get rid of old clothes, send a few dollars toward a worthy cause, or maybe spend time at a local event. What not enough people consider is rolling up their sleeves to donate blood. New York state is currently suffering from a blood shortage. Dr. Lawrence Fialkow, divisional medical officer of the American Red Cross pointed out why January is such a critical time. “The start of the year is one of the most challenging times to collect blood,” Fialkow wrote in a statement to the New York Department of Health. “Severe winter weather, seasonal illnesses and post-holiday schedules can disrupt donations.”
You can donate a pint of blood every 56 days
During a whole blood donation, one pint of blood is drawn from the body, which typically holds 10 to 12 pints. With proper nutrition, the body will replenish its own supply in less than two months. Blood drives offer different procedures, including “power red donations” in which additional blood is drawn, red blood cells are specifically collected, and the remaining fluid is returned. This can be done every 112 days.
Donating platelets is the most time-intensive option, taking up to three hours to gradually draw five pints of blood, remove small platelets, and return the unused material. The comprehensive procedure is only done at fully equipped blood centers, not standalone blood drives, but it can be performed every seven days.
For the safety of donors and blood recipients, prospective donors must meet certain eligibility requirements before collection can begin. In New York, you must be 17 years old to donate, or 16 with a parent’s permission. Most people must be 120 pounds or heavier, depending on the type of donation being made. In New York, recent tattoos and piercings will create a three-month delay in the opportunity to donate.
Pregnant women are ineligible to donate until six weeks post-partum. While blood drives aim to be inclusive and do not bias based on gender or sexual preference, FDA regulations require a three-month deferral depending on specific sexual acts. Detailed guidelines can be found at redcrossblood.org/faq.
Blood drives can pop up almost anywhere
It’s not uncommon to find random signs posted to announce an upcoming blood drive taking place at a local fire departments, schools, and houses of worship. Many locations have drives on a recurring basis, often yearly or semiannually to capitalize on a fast turnaround time for repeat donors. Because agencies are eager to encourage donations, nearly anyone can apply to host a blood drive by directly contacting the American Red Cross or the New York Blood Center and completing the application process.
If Long Islanders are unable to find a drive happening near them and can’t find one occurring soon enough, they can locate a nearby blood center to make a walk-in appointment by visiting aabb.org/giveblood.
PICKING UP WHERE she left off last winter when she earned All-County honors as well as Conference Player of the Year honors after leading the Vikings to 15 wins, McGowan ranks among Nassau’s top 20 scorers at 15.8 points per game as Seaford sits in the driver’s seat in Conference 7 with a 6-0 record (8-4 overall.) She scored in double figures in nine of the first dozen games as well as served as a key figure on the defensive end.
Thursday, Jan. 22
Girls Basketball: Plainedge at Seaford 5 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Carey at V.S. North 5 p.m.
Boys Basketball: C.S. Harbor at Malverne 7:00 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 23
Girls Basketball: Baldwin at Farmingdale 5 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Uniondale at Hempstead 5 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Massapequa at Syosset 5 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Wantagh at V.S. North 5 p.m.
Girls Basketball: North Shore at Malverne 6 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Jericho at Calhoun 6:45 p.m.
Girls Basketball: MacArthur at Long Beach 6:45 p.m.
Boys Basketball: Port Wash at E.Meadow 6:45 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Plainview at Freeport 6:45 p.m.
Girls Basketball: Oceanside at Massapequa 6:45 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 24
Girls Basketball: West Hemp at East Rock 10 a.m.
Boys Basketball: Malverne at North Shore 11:45 a.m.
Girls Basketball: Clarke at Sewanhaka 11:45 a.m.
Girls Basketball: Elmont at South Side 11:45 a.m.
Girls Basketball: Plainedge at V.S. South 11:45 a.m.
Boys Basketball: East Rock at West Hemp 11:45 a.m.
Boys Basketball: Herricks at Oceanside 1 p.m.
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a winter sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com
Last year’s championship run is paying dividends this season for Wanagh’s girls basketball team.
The Warriors entered a nine-day break for midterm exams at 12-2 overall and 5-1 in Conference A-1 with a perfect 6-0 mark on the road. Longtime head coach Stan Bujacich said the returners from the historic 23-3 season that captured the program’s first county title since 2006 and a Long Island championship before falling in the state finals are battle-tested to play in a variety of visiting environments.
“I think the experience last year really has helped us as whether it is a big crowd or small crowd, we’ve been through it all,” Bujacich said. “We’ve won a bunch of games on the road that came down to the last two or three minutes of the game.”
Bujacich said one of the road wins that particularly stood out this season was a 44-28 victory at Cold Spring Harbor on Dec. 5 in which the Warriors seized control of the game late against the reigning Class B state champions with a 16-4 fourth quarter run. Junior forward Kayla Mannix helped bring home the non-league win with 17 of her game-high 24 points coming in the second half to go along with eight rebounds, four blocks, four steals and three assists.
Mannix also fueled a hard-fought 49-45 non-league win at Manhasset on Jan. 3 with 16 points, six rebounds and five assists. Sophomore guard Isabelle Ferraro and sophomore Maykayla McNeil also tallied double figures with 14 and 12 points, respectively, in a game where Wantagh faced early foul trouble.
“It was a very physical and very intense game for a non-conference game and I thought we handled ourselves well after getting in foul trouble,” Bujacich said. “Everybody stepped up and then by the mid-fourth quarter we pulled away.”
The Warriors have had balanced scoring throughout the season often
McNeil had 14 points and 12 rebounds Jan. 3 as the Warriors took down Manhasset.
producing multiple double-digit scorers led by Mannix, Ferraro and McNeil. Junior forward Ella Perfetti has also stepped up as key rebounder this season and pulled down six boards to go along with nine points in Wantagh’s 55-45 home triumph against Plainedge on Jan. 12.
Senior point guard Sabrina Asadurian has proven instrumental in guiding the offense and as a lock-down defender while also bringing a presence to the floor as a four-year varsity player.
“She’s been a rock for the last three
years,” Bujacich said of Asadurian, who registered 11 points and seven assists in a 55-37 non-league win against Farmingdale on Dec. 23. “She is as tough as nails.”
Wantagh hits the home stretch of the regular season after the midterm break this Saturday for an 11:45 a.m. home tipoff against Valley Stream North before visiting Mineola Jan. 28 at 5 p.m. The Warriors then host Lynbrook Feb. 3 at 6:45 p.m. in a rematch of a 40-25 Warriors win on Jan. 4 where they outscored the Owls 17-3 in the fourth quarter.
members. Outgoing President Michael DiSilvio had announced at the start of last year that every officer and director role would be vacated to allow for new leadership.
“That was kind of the shot heard around the world,” DiSilvio said. “Everybody realized that we really need to make this transition happen,” DiSilvio added. The council found in Metzdorff-Rivera and Udell a strong pairing of energy, commitment, and community spirit.
“They were just ambitious,” he said. “They had a lot of good ideas about new events and projects. She’s unbelievably pleasant to work with. And I think that with the focus of her wellness background and then also Hal, who is a nutritionist/chef, was really a good, solid addition to our group.”
For Udell, the transition into community service happened gradually, sparked by his son’s entry into kindergarten. “When my son started school, I started working with the Seaford School District,” he said. “From that, I started going to the meetings.”
Udell, who moved to Seaford in 2019, wants to unite the community around food and education. One of his goals is to expand the council’s reach and visibility, especially in areas such as wellness and nutrition.
“We want to do a lot more events to get more people involved with just nutrition and wellness,” he said. “One meal at a time, one student at a time, one family at a time. If we could edu-
cate every family, we would have a better chance for a more successful life for everybody.”
Metzdorff-Rivera agrees and said her vision of wellness extends beyond physical health.
“It’s the wellness of our environment, the wellness of our schools, the wellness of our mental health—things like that,” she said. “There are a lot of people in our town, especially people who have school-age children, who didn’t even know about the council. Since I’ve joined, more people in my age group have shown interest in getting
involved.”
She hopes to foster more connections across age groups and neighborhoods to engage Seaford’s older residents as well as working with the youth of the community.
“We really want to focus our energy this year on just getting reorganized and getting the word out,” she said, “and making sure we have a really solid foundation to move forward.”
Former Vice President Ken Nersesian said both new leaders stood out for their energy and openness. “We needed people who would be dedicated to putting in the work,” he said. “Between Laura and Hal, they’re going to be able to do it. Hal is way more fired up and looking to do great things and new things. Laura is a little bit more methodical. They’re both open-minded, which is good.”
As for the transition, Nersesian admitted that “turning the controls over to other people wasn’t an easy thing to do,” but added, “we all feel that we confidently picked the right people to succeed us.”
Metzdorff-Rivera said she’s aware of the challenges that come with grassroots leadership, including logistics, finances, and red tape—but believes her experience as a community volunteer and parent has prepared her to lead.
“There’s a part of me that likes to be in leadership roles,” she said. “I feel like I’m strong in the way that I can be diplomatic and also helpful and supportive—and keep people working together in a really positive and successful way.”
And while the work ahead may be daunting at times, Udell said the mission remains simple. “We’re all in this together to make a better, happier place to live,” he said. “It’s about working together.”
By ROKSANA AMID ramid@liherald.com
Gov. Kathy Hochul used her 2026 State of the State address Jan. 13 to present an ambitious agenda focused on affordability, public safety and social services — while Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, her likely Republican challenger in this year’s gubernatorial race, sharply criticized the speech and questioned her record in office.
The state of the state of New York is strong, and we’re just getting started.
“The state of the state of New York is strong, and we’re just getting started,” Hochul said in her fifth State of the State, at Albany’s Hart Theater, framing the coming year as one focused on easing the financial strain on families while continuing investments in safety, housing and infrastructure.
GOv. KATHy HOcHul
At the core of Hochul’s address was a renewed push for universal child care, which she described as the most pressing affordability issue facing working families. The governor outlined plans to expand prekindergarten statewide, with the goal of achieving universal pre-K for 4-year-olds by 2028, while piloting yearround, full-day child care for children from birth to age 3.
“This plan will ultimately deliver universal child care for every family in New York, full stop,” Hochul said, drawing sustained applause.
She cited the high cost of care, particularly in New York City, where annual expenses can range from $26,000 to $40,000, calling the burden “almost impossible” for many parents. Hochul said the state would expand subsidies, strengthen its voucher system and improve tax incentives for employers who invest in child care benefits.
Beyond child care, Hochul framed affordability as a broader economic challenge, pointing to proposals aimed at lowering utility and auto insurance costs. She said the state would crack down on staged car accidents and insurance fraud, streamline utility assistance programs and protect consumers from steep rate hikes, while continuing investments in clean energy.
Housing and infrastructure were also key pillars of the address. Hochul announced an additional $250 million investment in affordable housing and $100 million for manufactured housing, while reiterating her administration’s commitment to cutting red tape that she said has slowed development for decades.
Under her Let Them Build initiative, Hochul said the state would modernize environmental review processes to accelerate housing, clean energy and
infrastructure projects.
“We’re changing the culture around building, brick by brick,” she said, noting that more than 400 communities have signed on as “pro-housing” municipalities eligible for state funding.
Public safety was another major focus. Hochul pointed to more than $3 billion in state investments in police and public safety over the past four years and said crime, including shootings, homicides and subway crime, has declined statewide.
“We’ll never be satisfied,” Hochul said, outlining plans to expand crime analysis centers, increase police patrols in subway stations, install platform barriers at 85 additional stations and grow mental health response teams that pair law enforcement with clinical professionals.
On gun violence, Hochul proposed a first-in-the-nation law requiring 3D printers sold in New York to include software that blocks the production of firearms, targeting so-called “ghost guns.” She also called for restrictions on handguns that can be converted into automatic weapons.
“Not here. Not in New York,” she said. “That’s how we save lives and fight crime.”
Hochul also used her address to draw a sharp contrast with President Trump and federal immigration enforcement
County Executive Bruce
spoke after Hochul’s address, criticizing her agenda and calling for tax credits for working families with children.
child care affordability and instead proposed tax credits for working parents, though he did not offer specific details. He said those credits would be worth more than those proposed by Hochul. He also criticized Hochul’s handling of the migrant crisis, pointing to what he described as nearly $5 billion in state spending to manage the influx of asylum seekers, largely centered in New York City.
policies. She said New York would not allow the use of state resources to assist in federal immigration raids involving people who have not committed serious crimes, and would bar U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents from entering schools, day cares, hospitals and houses of worship without a judicial warrant.
“We will not bow to a wannabe king,” Hochul said, adding that congestion pricing in New York City “is staying on.”
The governor also proposed legislation that would allow New Yorkers to sue federal officers in state court for alleged violations of their constitutional rights, framing the measure as a safeguard against abuses of power.
Blakeman’s rebuttal sharpens political contrast
An hour after Hochul’s address, Blakeman delivered a blistering rebuttal from Nassau GOP headquarters in Westbury, calling the governor’s remarks “the most unbelievable speech” he had ever heard.
“There was nothing in that speech that was believable,” Blakeman said. “I thought I was watching a ‘Saturday Night Live’ skit.”
He accused Hochul of failing to deliver results during her four years in office, particularly on child care. While Hochul outlined expanded subsidies and universal pre-K, Blakeman said the governor had “done nothing” to address
“She’s helping people who have been in the state for 15 minutes,” Blakeman said, arguing that Hochul’s policies have contributed to population and business losses.
The two leaders also diverge sharply on immigration enforcement. Blakeman has touted Nassau County’s cooperation with ICE, while Hochul is proposing legislation allowing New Yorkers to sue federal officers who violate their civil rights.
Shortly after his swearing-in this week, Blakeman signed Nassau County’s Religious Safety Act into law, banning protests within 35 feet of houses of worship around service times. Hochul, meanwhile, proposed a statewide ban on protests within 25 feet of religious property lines, saying worshippers should be able to pray “without fear or harassment.”
As Blakeman positions himself for a statewide run, political analysts note the challenge ahead. Long Island accounts for nearly one-fifth of New York’s electorate, with about 2.1 million active voters, but Blakeman will need to expand his appeal beyond his local base to attract swing voters upstate.
Hochul’s full agenda — more than 200 proposals spanning housing, energy policy, artificial intelligence regulation, youth mental health and consumer protections — will be detailed further when she releases her executive budget next week, setting the stage for a high-stakes gubernatorial race.
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By LUKE FEENEY lfeeney@liherald.com
It snowed across Nassau County this weekend, as houses, businesses and local areas in Wantagh and Seaford started their Martin Luther King Jr. Day with some snow on the ground.
Snow fell across the Tri-State Area on Sunday morning and evening. Though the snow has stopped in New York City, Winter Weather Advisories–which means that drivers can expect to encounter wintry driving conditions on the road–remained in place through 4 a.m. Monday for most Tri-State Area counties, except Ocean in southeastern New Jersey.
The bulk of the Tri-State Area was expected to receive 2-4 inches, with 1-3 predicted for the northwestern suburbs and along the Jersey Shore. On eastern
Long Island, a total of up to 5 inches was thought possible.
More snow is to be expected this upcoming week, according to the Weather Channel, as winter storm systems continue to push across the Northern Tier of the country, bringing heavy snow to the Northeast, Great Lakes, and Ohio Valley. Arctic air will surge southward as well, causing temperatures to dive across the eastern half of the country. This, along with strong winds, is expected to create dangerous wind chills for millions.
From Friday into the upcoming weekend, a far-reaching storm is expected to gradually swing out of the Rocky Mountains and into the Plains before barrelling across the eastern United States. Wintry impacts–such as snow and ice–are likely across a large swath of the storm track, according to AccuWeather.
Students put moral values to work in their lives every day
Strong spiritual guidance is an essential part of daily activities at Long Island’s Catholic schools, creating a special sense of community among children, families, teachers, and the local parish, which reinforces moral values and an abiding respect for others. Resourceful instructors use powerful spiritual teachings and real-world experiences to bring these values to life for children, while our smaller classes allow for more personalized and productive interaction between students and teachers.
The timeless values that create better prepared, more capable, and more confident young adults. An important part of your child’s program is the learning of values. This is often the most easily observable difference in a ‘Catholic school kid’.
While the specific order and organization of when these values are taught might differ from school-to-school, the values and the discipline to live them are enduring qualities and are taught consistently across all Catholic elementary schools.
Kindergarten – Courtesy and Respect: Learning the importance of politeness and good manners in dealing with others, as well as the need to respect one another, and personal and public property.
First Grade – Punctuality and Neatness: Being on time for school and with assignments and being neat in both school work and homework.
Second Grade – Kindness and Generosity: Understanding the need to reach out and help one another and realizing the joy in giving more than is expected.
Third Grade – Hard Work and Perseverance: Recognizing the importance of diligence and a good work attitude, the satisfaction of doing our best and the need to keep trying despite obstacles.
Fourth Grade – Honesty and Responsibility: Being truthful and keeping our word, doing the right thing even when no one else is looking, accepting the consequences of our actions and
meeting our obligations.
Fifth Grade – Patience and Discipline: Learning to be patient with ourselves and others, saying “yes” to the right things and “no” to the wrong things, and taking charge of ourselves by controlling our actions and emotions.
Sixth Grade – Tolerance and Justice: Learning to accept and appreciate the differences in others and treating them with equality and fairness.
Seventh Grade – Thoughtfulness and Compassion: Understanding the needs and feeling of others and treating them with equality and fairness.
Eighth Grade – Loyalty and Courage: Caring about our relationships with others and being willing to show it through our actions; having the strength and will to do what is right even when we’re afraid or it’s unpopular.
By MOHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman was sworn in to a second term at the county’s 2026 inauguration ceremony at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City last week, and afterward signed new safety legislation.
The Jan. 12 ceremony was attended by hundreds, including elected officials, law enforcement representatives and clergy members.
Elaine Phillips and Maureen O’Connell were also sworn in to new terms as county comptroller and county clerk, respectively.
Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino led the ceremony, introducing a number of esteemed speakers, stakeholders and performers including Father Gerard Gordon, senior chaplain of the Nassau County Police Department, as well as Mary Millben, an internationally known performer who sang the national anthem.
Religious leaders representing both Judaism and Christianity took part in the ceremony, with Rabbi Mordechai Kamenetzky, of Yeshiva of South Shore, delivering the invocation and Gordon offering the benediction.
The ceremony opened with a presentation of colors by members of the Nassau County Police Department, the
institutions.
your county executive,” Blakeman said in his remarks after his swearing in, which was conducted by his wife, Segal Blakeman, a Nassau County Family Court judge. “It’s only through the strength of God that I have the ability to serve, and I recognize that each and every day.”
“[We supported] our law enforcement, hired 600 law professionals, canceled a $150 million tax increase, didn’t raise taxes for four years, and earned seven bond upgrades,” he added, touting the achievements of his first term. “That’s unprecedented.”
Following his swearing in, Blakeman signed a bill previously approved by county legislators meant to add protection for worshippers at religious institutions. The bill prohibits demonstrations from occurring within 10 feet of a person entering or exiting a place of religious worship. It also prevents demonstrations within 35 feet of an entrance to a religious institution in the hour before a scheduled service and the hour after it ends.
County Sheriff’s Department, the Nassau County Fire Marshal’s Office and the Emerald Society Pipes and Drums, alongside Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 82.
Nassau County Chief Fire Marshal Michael Uttaro led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a moment of silence
honoring those who have served in public service and the armed forces.
Musical selections were also provided by international vocalist Christopher Macchio, who sang “Hallelujah,” by Leonard Cohen.
“I would like to thank Hashem — God — for giving me the strength to serve as
Small businesses bring life to our communities. They are the restaurants, shops, and services that make each neighborhood unique and keep our local economy strong.
PSEG Long Island is proud to once again sponsor the Long Island Choice Awards, presented by the Herald, honoring the resilience, innovation, and dedication of local businesses across our region.
In 2026, PSEG Long Island’s commitment to helping small businesses grow is stronger than ever. Through our Business First platform, we provide resources and incentives that make a real difference. Programs like Vacant Space Revival help fill empty storefronts, Main Street Revitalization strengthens downtown districts, and Business First Advocates meet directly with owners to connect them to energy savings and business support.
Now it’s your turn to help celebrate the businesses that make Long Island thrive. Nominate your favorite local spots, your family-owned bakery, the boutique you love, or the service provider that always goes the extra mile. Your nomination helps give them the recognition they deserve and shines a light on the people and places that make our community stronger.
When small businesses thrive, we all thrive. Join us in celebrating their impact by submitting your nominations for the 2026 Long Island Choice Awards today.
Thank you,
Sincerely,
Scott Jennings, President & COO PSEG Long Island
“You know how I feel about religious freedom,” Blakeman said. “And the ability for people to be able to worship in their mosque, their church, their synagogue, their temple. And therefore we will protect those institutions, and we will protect people’s rights to worship freely here in the Nassau County.”
By LUKE FEENEY
lfeeney@liherald.com
Two dozen students from Seaford High School explored Google’s New York City headquarters and heard firsthand from four Seaford alumni now working for the tech giant.
Students from the Introduction to Programming and Advanced Placement Computer Science courses learned about careers in technology while seeing a dynamic work environment. They connected with software engineers and professional programmers to better understand the skills needed in the field.
“Google is very recognizable to current high school students,” Seaford High School computer science teacher Lauren Thompsen said. “I think it was beneficial to them because there is a very wide field of career possibilities.”
This was the second year Seaford students have been invited to Google. Thompsen said last year’s visit was very motivational for students because it gave participants real-world insight into the world of computer science.
“What you learn from computer science is interdisciplinary,” Ms. Thompsen said. “It applies to everything. It’s math, science, logic, planning, organization, thinking things and trying to figure out where a problem is and fixing it.”
Students learned from four Seaford alumni about their day-to-day as Google employees, how they use coding in their jobs and the importance of collaboration in the field. Senior Chedesh Shamnarine noted that the presentation also centered around artificial intelligence, including how it is developed and its risks. “They really made us think about what computer science is,” Chedesh added.
“It was very helpful,” senior Ali Faruqui said, “it highlighted how computer science can solve issues and make the world a better place.” Senior Denys Zagrebin had high praise for Google’s headquarters, praising the artwork around the building–with a different theme for each floor. The headquarters also had scooters to help people get around the block-long building faster.
Seaford’s computer science program was developed in 2001 and has evolved as new technology emerges. Fellow senior Andrew Nguyen praised the collaboration of those at Google–and in the field of computer science.
“I didn’t realize how in-depth computer science is in terms of how you have to work with each other and cooperate with each other,” Nguyen said, adding that he was impressed by how much the software engineers work together on a project, and give feedback. He also expressed his own confidence in his–and his peers–abilites. “I thought that was very interesting,” he said, “if they can do it, we can do it.”
Compiled by Herald Staff
Jack Murphy Massapequa Park age 14
I want to work on my reading and baseball skills
I want to get into the gym and exercise more, so I can live a healthier lifestyle
This year, I want my children’s books to reach more families and classrooms so kids feel seen.
Tim Baker/Herald photos
I love biking around Long Island. This year, I want to bike all the way to Montauk
age 11 I want to expand my skill set and improve my dance technique
METAMORPHOSIS Saturday, January 31st at 7:30pm
Korngold: Theme and Variations, op. 42
Glaser: Passacaglia for Full Orchestra (Grand Premier!)
Hindemith: Symphonic Metamorphosis of Themes by Carl Maria Von Weber
Goldmark: “Wedding March” (Theme and Variations) from Rustic Wedding Symphony
MONHEIT Sunday, March 8th at 3:00pm
THE RITE OF SPRING Saturday, March 28th at 7:30pm
Robin Zeh, violin
Stravinsky: The Rite of Spring Ro
Marquez: Conga del Fuego Nuevo
Vaughan Williams: The Lark Ascending (Romance for Violin and Orchestra)
Students in the Seaford Middle School Service Club recently wrapped up a successful winter clothing drive that brought in dozens of donations.
The drive, which ran from Dec. 15 to Jan. 16, was organized with the goal of helping Long Islanders stay warm during the winter. “There’s so many people in need,” said Service Club President Ryan Kind, a Seaford Middle School eighth grader, “it’s important for us to give back to the community.”
The donations–which included new and gently used items such as coats, gloves, hats, pants, shoes and socks–will be given to the St. Vincent de Paul Society of Long Island. The Society was founded in 1948 and is composed of 63 parish-based volunteer groups, two thrift stores, several parish-based food pantries, and a transitional housing program. It serves thousands of people annually through a myriad of direct services with the goal of helping people overcome hardship.
munity-mindedness. In this case, the drive exemplified the trait of “networker,” as students encouraged peers to participate while collaborating with an outside organization.
The Service Club, led by advisers Katheryn Hickey and Taryn Ohlmiller, organizes a range of community service efforts throughout the school year.
The clothing drive also aligned with the Seaford School District’s “Seaford Scholar” profile — a district initiative focused on developing character traits such as resilience, innovation and com-
The district’s Seaford Scholar Profile includes 10 key traits: risk taker, resilient, mindful, innovator, reflective, humorous, communicator, principled, flexible and networker — all of which students are encouraged to develop during their time in Seaford schools.
—Luke Feeney
Our experts handpicked this highly acclaimed collection to pair perfectly with your favorite dishes from Omaha Steaks. Uncork 12 bottles with bonus gifts for just $79.99 (plus shipping and tax) as your introduction to the Omaha Steaks Wine Club – saving you $155.
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By Abbey Salvemini
Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust, and Fear are in the spotlight. The vibrant world of Disney Pixar’s beloved film springs to life in “Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out,” a traveling, hands-on exhibit developed by the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. Now ensconced at Long Island Children’s Museum, the exhibition invites kids — and adults too — to step inside the film’s emotional landscape and explore how feelings shape the way we think, act, and connect. Running through May 10, it blends play and learning to help young visitors understand the important role emotions, memory and imagination play in our everyday lives.
Designed to spark curiosity and conversation, the exhibit transforms familiar moments from the film into immersive learning experiences. Visitors can step into “headquarters,” create glowing memory spheres and experiment with how emotions interact through physical and digital play.
• Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• View the LICM events calendar at licm.org for additional information or call (516) 224-5800
• Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City
According to Margo Malter, the museum’s director of exhibits, the opportunity to bring “Emotions at Play” here is especially meaningful since it offers a playful way to interpret the movie’s ideas that resonate with children and families.
“All of the activities are very open-ended and hands-on, which is really what the museum is all about,” says Malter.
Transforming “Inside Out” into a hands-on learning experience required a thoughtful balance between storytelling and play. Rather than focusing on passive observation, it’s designed to invite children to actively engage with emotions. Developed in collaboration with Pixar Animation Studios, the exhibit features iconic set pieces directly inspired by the film.
Everyone will instantly recognize and gravitate toward the immersive recreations of scenes inspired by “Inside Out.” At the Control Panel kids can pull levers and press buttons to explore the intensity of different emotions, while Emotions in Motion welcomes kids to place a memory sphere — just like in the movie — into a large, interactive machine.
Additional experiences deepen the emotional journey. Emotion Mirrors spring to life as guests step in front of them, triggering appearances by familiar “Inside Out” characters. At Range of Emotions, facial expressions are captured and identified on a screen, helping children connect expressions with feelings. A nearby writing station encourages reflection, inviting participants to choose colored paper that represents the emotions they want to express or explore.
From the vibrant color palette to the instantly recognizable environments, the installation captures the spirit of the film while staying true to the museum’s mission.
“For kids this age [2-10], it’s really about naming
A child adds colorful paper to the Long Term Memory wall, creating a glowing display inside “Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out.”
At the Control Panel, use buttons and levers to explore how emotions guide our reactions.
Everyone works together at a hands-on balance and teamwork challenge. A young visitor tries the Range of Emotions activity, exploring how feelings can look and sound different.
emotions and helping them give words to the feelings they are feeling,” Malter says. “Play is really the language of children and how they learn.”
Always, complementary programming enriches the exhibit experience. Children can create their own “memory orbs” inspired by the film or craft personalized “headquarters hats,” extending the themes of “Inside Out” beyond the gallery. Malter underscores the importance of hands-on creativity, noting the value of giving children the chance to make something tangible — an experience, and a keepsake — they can proudly take home.
At its heart, “Inside Out” delivers a powerful message: every emotion has value and a purpose. The exhibit brings that idea to life by creating a welcoming, judgment-free environment where children can explore feelings openly.
“This [exhibit] gives kids a safe space to have those conversations and for parents to give guidance,” Malter adds.
Ultimately, Malter hopes the exhibit does more than entertain for an afternoon — she envisions it as a catalyst for meaningful conversations that continue long after families leave the museum. By giving children age-appropriate tools to recognize, name and understand their emotions, the experience helps build emotional awareness and empathy at an early stage. Through hands-on activities and familiar characters, complex feelings are made accessible and relatable, encouraging children to express themselves with confidence. The result is an environment where learning feels intuitive, playful and engaging, while quietly reinforcing skills that support communication, resilience and healthy social development.
Building on the momentum of “Emotions at Play,” the museum will soon be rolling out an engaging lineup of family-friendly performances. In February and March, “Pete the Cat” arrives on its stage. Join the groovy blue feline and his pal Jimmy Biddle on an art-filled adventure that travels from New York to Paris, blending music, imagination and plenty of toe-tapping fun. The excitement continues in April and May with the return of “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical.” Based on Mo Willems’ wildly popular books and featuring music by Deborah Wicks La Puma, the high-energy production invites young audiences to follow the mischievous Pigeon in a lively, interactive theatrical experience.
Together, these performances — alongside the gallery exhibits that includie the newest permanent installation “Saltwater Stories” — offer families even more reasons to return. With a dynamic mix of theater, interactive learning and creative play, the museum continues to be a vibrant hub for discovery and family fun throughout 2026.
Ballet Hispánico visits Tilles Center with a captivating performance that demonstrates the vitality and artistry that define the company’s work. The stunning evening-length CARMEN. maquia, offers a look at the repertory that established Ballet Hispánico as a transformative force in American dance. Since her debut in 1875, Carmen, the titular character from Bizet’s opera, has become a timeless cultural icon, inspiring generations of composers, choreographers and writers to attempt to capture her elusive and alluring nature. Highly original and full of explosive movement, this is a bold reimagining of her tragic tale. The physically charged and sensual choreography fuses contemporary dance with nods to the Spanish paso doble and flamenco. Ballet Hispánico was born from a bold vision to transform the world through the power of dance and reimagine how Latin culture is celebrated on the global stage.
Friday, Jan. 23, 8 p.m. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
Nassau County Museum of Art welcomes New York–based artist Dee Shapiro for an engaging conversation about her work featured in the “Real, Surreal, and Photoreal” exhibition. Known for her meticulously detailed paintings, Shapiro explores the interplay of geometry, architecture and a powerful sense of place, drawing viewers into scenes that feel both familiar and quietly otherworldly. During her session, Shapiro discusses selections from her City and Landscapes series, revealing how she captures the rhythm, structure and subtle poetry of urban streetscapes and natural environments alike. Her work balances precision with atmosphere, inviting close looking and fresh perspectives on spaces we often take for granted. With what appears to be a strong impetus to constantly re-invent her painterly vocabulary, her work keeps us on our toes with each of her series which she sees overall as evoking an alternate reality with absurd connection. Limited seating, so register in advance.
Sunday, Jan 25, 3 p.m. $20, $15 seniors, $10 students (members free). 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor. Register at nassaumuseum.org or call (516) 484-9337.
Wantagh BOE meets
Wantagh Board of Education holds its next meeting.
• Where: 3200 Beltagh Ave.
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 592-4000
‘Anastasia The New Musical’
Molloy Performing Arts Club stages the musical inspired by the films. From Tony winners Terrence McNally, Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, creators of such Broadway classics as Ragtime and Once On This Island, this dazzling show transports its audience from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya enlists the aid of a dashing con man and a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love and family.
• Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre
• Time: 7 p.m.; also Jan. 23, 8 p.m.; Jan 24, 1 and 7 p.m.
• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444
Icebreaker 5K
Step into the New Year with a frigid run through Eisenhower Park.
• Where: Eisenhower Park Field 5
• Time: 9:15 a.m.
• Contact: Events.EliteFeats.com
Because Jonah Would Benefit
Enjoy an afternoon of food, drinks and fun to raise money for the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation in honor of Jonah Gruda. Tickets are $125.
• Where: Mulcahys Pub & Concert Hall, 3232 Railroad Ave., Wantagh
• Time: 1-5 p.m.
• Contact: GiveButter.com
Art talk
Nassau County Museum of Art hosts
Dee Shapiro, a New York–based artist, is known for her richly detailed paintings exploring geometry, architecture, and place. She discusses works from her City and Landscapes series featured in The Real, Surreal, and Photoreal exhibit, which capture the rhythm and structure of urban and
talented collegiate and high school ensembles. Visit singstrong.org for details.
• Where: Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City
• Time: Varied, through Feb. 1
• Contact: adelphi.edu/pac or (516) 877-4000
The South Shore Symphony invites all to their “Metamorphosis” concert at their longtime Madison Theatre home. The program features Paul Hindemith’s iconic symphonic “Metamorphosis of Themes” by Carl Maria von Weber, transforming Weber’s melodies into vibrant orchestral movements, alongside other works like “Theme & Variations” and “A Passacaglia,” showcasing musical transformation through different eras and styles.
• Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington
• Time: 9 p.m., doors open 8 p.m.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
After opening for Sebastian Maniscalco on his massive “It Ain’t Right” arena tour, Pete Correale is now doing his own. Be prepared for the laughs when he brings his “As I Was Saying” tour to the Paramount stage. The Long Island-born comedian-actor-writer, best known for his conversational, reality-based humor, is one busy guy. He co-hosts co-host of the “Pete and Sebastian Show,” a podcast with comedian Sebastian Maniscalco, that’s of the most popular comedy podcasts on air today, consistently growing in audience eight years after its launch. He’s been a frequent guest on late night TV, including “The Tonight Show,” and has filmed well as filming three of his own one-hour television comedy specials, “Things We Do For Love,” “Let Me Tell Ya” and “For Pete’s Sake.” He has also released two comedy albums and has been a staff writer on several TV shows, most recently “Kevin Can Wait” on CBS as well as “The Crew” on Netflix. His comedy is reflective of his life and the experiences he’s been through. Being married for over 20 years and having a young daughter, Pete’s never at a loss for material. With a conversational delivery and his trademark disarming regular guy attitude, Pete makes you feel like you’re listening to the funniest guy at a party as opposed to just another comedian on a stage.
natural environments.. $20, $15 seniors, $10 students (members free). Limited seating, register in advance.
• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor
• Time: 3 p.m.
• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337
Town meeting
28
Seaford BOE meets Board of Education holds its next meeting.
• Where: 1590 Washington Ave., Seaford
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 592-4000
Each week in this engaging workshop, participants are introduced to hands-on materials, artmaking, and inspiration from artists and techniques. Young kids, ages 2-5, build critical thinking skills, expand vocabulary, and support imaginations as they play, create and explore. $4 with museum admission.
• Where: Museum Row, Garden City
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444
Lunar New Year Celebration
Families are invited to vibrant celebration of art and music when Nassau County Museum of Art ushers in the Lunar New Year, honoring the rich creative contributions of Chinese culture. Activities include a Year of the Horse craft at the Manes Center. Before or after art making, head to the mansion to enjoy cultural performances. $20, $10 child; members free. Registration required.
The Town of Hempstead hosts a meeting to discuss important issues of note.
• Where: One Washington St., Hempstead
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 489-5000 JAN 27
Historian and author Mary Noe shares her book “The Man who Shot J.P. Morgan” at Levittown Public Library. Registration required.
• Where: 1 Bluegrass Lane, Levittown
• Time: 7-8:30 p.m.
• Contact: levittownpl.org or (516) 731-5728
Temple B’nai Torah hosts weekly bingo with prizes, progressive games, and refreshments every Wednesday and Thursday.
• Where: 2900 Jerusalem Ave., Wantagh
• Time: Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. -1 p.m.; Thursdays, 7:15-10 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 221-2370
Game time
29
Play Mah Jongg and Canasta every Thursday at Congregation Beth Tikvah. Snacks and drinks are provided. $5 contribution.
• Where: 3710 Woodbine Ave., Wantagh
• Time: Noon-4 p.m.
• Contact: mahjonggCBT@yahoo. com or (516) 785-2445
• Time: 11:30 a.m.-noon
• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800
30
SingStrong Interntional
A Cappella Festival returns to the Adelphi University Performing Arts Center. This exciting threeday, all-vocal event features five unique concerts and two days of classes and coaching, showcasing the versatility and power of the human voice. Festival proceeds support music programs and the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund. Audiences will experience a diverse range of a cappella styles, including pop, jazz, rock, barbers hop, hip-hop, doo-wop, and more. The festival hosts performances by professional a cappella groups from around the world, alongside
• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor
• Time: 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 1- 2:30 p.m.
• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337
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, WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR BCAT 2020-3TT, Plaintiff, vs. ANNA HARRIS, ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on November 26, 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 February 19, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 858 Mayer Drive, Wantagh, NY 11793. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 51, Block 346 and Lot 22. Approximate amount of judgment is $518,884.67 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 612827/2022. Cash will not be accepted.
Christopher Vatter, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 157784
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Section 202-48 of the code of the Town of Hempstead entitled, “Handicapped Parking on Public Streets,” a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 27th day of January 2026, at 7:00 o’clock in the evening of that day, to consider the adoption of a resolution setting aside certain parking spaces for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons at the following locations:
EAST ATLANTIC BEACH
MOHAWK AVENUEeast side, starting at a point 240 feet south of the south curbline of Beech Street, south for a distance of 16 feet.
(TH-616/25)
ELMONT
237th STREET - east side, starting at a point 118 feet north of the north curbline of 116th Avenue, north for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-641/25)
TERRACE AVENUEwest side, starting at a point 495 feet south of the south curbline of Atherton Avenue, south for a distance of 18 feet.
(TH-644/25)
GARDEN CITY SOUTH
WHITEHALL ROAD
SOUTH - east side, starting at a point of 285 feet south of the south curbline of Ardsley Boulevard, south for a distance of 22 feet.
(TH-605/25)
ROOSEVELT
RONALD PLACE - east side, starting at a point 459 feet south of the south curbline of East Fulton Avenue, south for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-597/25)
UNIONDALE
LAWRENCE STREETwest side, starting at a point 269 feet south of the south curbline of Westbury Boulevard, south for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-596/25)
SOUTHERN PARKWAYnorthside, starting at a point 455 feet west of the west curbline of Uniondale Avenue, west for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-625/25)
WANTAGH
BAYVIEW AVENUEeast side, starting at a point 187 feet north of the north curbline of St. Regis Street, north for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-599/25)
WOODBINE AVENUEsouth side, starting at a point 340 feet west of the west curbline of Express Way, west for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-600/25)
WEST HEMPSTEAD
BARBARA LANE - west side, starting at a point 213 feet south of the southcurbline of White Star Avenue, south for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-608/25) and on the repeal of the following locations previously set aside as parking spaces for physically handicapped persons:
FRANKLIN SQUARE
THIRD AVENUE - north side, starting at a point
84 feet east of the east curbline of Fourth Street, east for a distance of 20 feet.
(TH-35/11 - 6/14/11)
(TH-592/25)
ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.
Dated:January 13, 2026
Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, N.Y.
JOHN FERRETTI
Supervisor
KATE MURRAY
Town Clerk 157909
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD
LOCAL LAW NO.
2-2026
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held on the 13th day of January 2026, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 2-2026, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 2-2026, to amend Section 202-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include & repealing “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at various locations.
Dated:January 13, 2026 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD
JOHN FERRETTI
Supervisor
KATE MURRAY
Town Clerk 157911
LEGAL NOTICE
The regular meetings of the Wantagh Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners for the 2026 calendar year will be held at 2045 Wantagh Avenue, Wantagh, on the following dates:
January 26th 2026
February 23rd 2026
March 30th 2026
April 27th 2026
May 18th 2026
June 29th 2026
July 27th 2026
August 24th 2026
September 28th 2026
October 19th 2026**
November 16th 2026
December 14th 2026
** The annual budget hearing shall be Monday, October 19th, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. In accordance with Town Law §181, sub section 3a. All meetings will be held in accordance with Public Officers Law §103 and will begin at 8:00 p.m. Additionally, the re-organizational meeting for the 2027 calendar year shall be held on Tuesday, January 5th 2027 at 7:00 pm in accordance with Town Law §176.This notice is provided in accordance with Public Officers Law §104. By Order of the Wantagh Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners Brendan J. Narell Superintendent Wantagh Fire District 157921
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS
Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 02/04/2026 at 9:30 A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:
THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30
A.M.
72/26. LEVITTOWNMarcos Torres, Special exception to maintain shed higher & larger than permitted, exceeding horizontal maximum & with less than required rear yard setback., N/s Amber La., 80’ E/o Top La., a/k/a 41Amber La. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550.
This notice is only for new cases in Levittown within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is
available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals
The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo
Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it.
157898
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and Municipal Home Rule of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 27th day of January 2026, at 7:00 o’clock in the evening of that day to consider the enactment of a local law to amend Section 202-1 of the code of the Town of Hempstead to INCLUDE “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at the following locations:
ELMONT
SUSSEX ROAD (TH 285/24) West SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the north curbline of Hathaway Avenue, north for a distance of 30 feet.
SUSSEX ROAD (TH 285/24) East SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the south curbline of 109th Avenue, south for a distance of 30 feet.
SUSSEX ROAD (TH 285/24) East SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the north curbline of Hathaway Avenue, north for a distance of 26 feet.
(NR) LYNBROOK
HIGHLAND
BOULEVARD (TH 392(B)/25) North SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the west curbline of Franklin Avenue, west for a distance of 35 feet.
HIGHLAND
BOULEVARD (TH 392(B)/25) South SideNO STOPPING HERE TO
CORNER - starting from the west curbline of Franklin Avenue, west for a distance of 35 feet.
FRANKLIN AVENUE (TH 392(B)/25) West SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the south curbline of Highland Boulevard, south for a distance of 30 feet.
MERRICK LITTLE WHALENECK ROAD (TH 609/25) East SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the north curbline of Cameron Avenue, north for a distance of 35 feet.
OCEANSIDE UNIONDALE
ELLEN TERRY DRIVE (TH 603/25) North Side -NO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the east curbline of Benjamin Road, east for a distance of 60 feet.
DAVISON AVENUE (TH 622/25) North SideNO STOPPING ANYTIME - starting at the west curbline of Oceanside Road, west for a distance of 235 feet.
NORTHGATE COURT (TH 642/25) North Side -NO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the west curbline of Northgate Drive, west for a distance of 50 feet. (NR) VALLEY STREAM MILFORD LANE (TH 595/25) North SideNO PARKING ANYTIME - starting at a point 22 feet east of the east curbline of Salem Road, east for a distance of 75 feet.
WANTAGHWANTAGH AVENUE (TH 636/25) East SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the south curbline of Emeric Avenue, south for a distance of 40 feet.
WANTAGH AVENUE (TH 636/25) East SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the north curbline of Emeric Avenue, north for a distance of 50 feet.
WEST HEMPSTEAD BEDELL TERRACE (TH 495/25) West SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting at the south curbline of Hempstead Avenue, south for a distance of 69 feet.
BEDELL TERRACE (TH 495/25) West SideNO STOPPING ANYTIME - starting at a point 69 feet south of the south curbline of Hempstead Avenue, south for a distance of 75 feet.
BEDELL TERRACE (TH 495/25) East SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting at the south curbline of Hempstead Avenue, south for a distance of 69 feet.
BEDELL TERRACE (TH 495/25) East SideNO STOPPING ANYTIME - starting at a point 69 feet south of the south curbline of Hempstead Avenue, south for a distance of 65 feet.
WOODMERE IRVING PLACE (TH 466/25) East SideNO STOPPING ANYTIME - starting at a point 210 feet south of the south curbline of Cedar Lane, south for a distance of 26 feet.
IRVING PLACE (TH 466/25) East SideNO PARKING ANYTIME - starting at a point 355 feet south of the south curbline of Cedar Lane, south for a distance of 43 feet.
HOWE COURT (TH 647/25) North SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the west curbline of East Broadway, west for a distance of 28 feet. ALSO, to REPEAL from Section 202-1 “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” from the following location(s): EAST MEADOW GREEN AVENUE (TH 150/63) East SideNO STOPPINGstarting from a point 18 feet south of a point opposite the south curbline of Warren Street, north for a distance of 72 feet.
(Adopted 5/28/63) MARIAN COURT (TH 332/24) North SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting at the east curbline of Prospect Avenue, east for a distance of 55 feet.
(Adopted 9/4/24) OCEANSIDE DAVISON AVENUE (TH 365/81) North SideNO STOPPING ANYTIME - starting at a point 76 feet west of the west curbline of Oceanside Road, west for a distance of 127 feet.
(Adopted 1/26/82) WOODMERE IRVING PLACE (TH 529/64) East SideNO PARKING ANYTIME - starting at a point 130 feet south of the south curbline of Cedar Lane, south for a distance of 80 feet.
(Adopted 11/24/64)
IRVING PLACE (TH 683/67) East Side -
NO PARKING ANYTIME - starting at a point 252 feet north of the north curbline of Central Avenue, north for a distance of 65 feet.
(Adopted 2/27/68)
HOWE COURT (TH 83/77) North SideNO STOPPING HERE TO CORNER - starting from the west curbline of East Broadway, west for a distance of 28 feet.
(Adopted 7/26/77) ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.
Dated:January 13, 2026 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. JOHN FERRETTI Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 157901
LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE OF NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER’S SALE OF TAX LIENS ON REAL ESTATE Notice is hereby given that commencing on February 17th, 2026, will sell at public online auction the tax liens on certain real estate, unless the owner, mortgagee, occupant of or any other party in interest in such real estate shall have paid to the County Treasurer by February 12th, 2026 the total amount of such unpaid taxes or assessments with the interest, penalties and other expenses and charges against the property.
Such tax liens will be sold at the lowest rate of interest, not exceeding 10 percent per six-month period, for which any person or persons shall offer to take the total amount of such unpaid taxes as defined in Section 5-37.0 of the Nassau County Administrative Code.
Effective with the February 2019 lien sale Ordinance No. 175-2015 requires a $175.00 per day registration fee for each person who intends to bid at the tax lien sale. Ordinance No. 175-2015 also requires that upon the issuance of the Lien Certificate there is due from the lien buyer a Tax Certificate Issue Fee of $20.00 per lien purchased. Pursuant to
the provisions of the Nassau County Administrative Code at the discretion of the Nassau County Treasurer the auction will be conducted online. Further information concerning the procedures for the auction is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at: https://www.nassaucou ntyny.gov/526/CountyTreasurer
Should the Treasurer determine that an inperson auction shall be held, same will commence on the 17th day of February 2026 at the Office of The County Treasurer 1 West Street, Mineola or at some other location to be determined by the Treasurer.
A list of all real estate in Nassau County on which tax liens are to be sold is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at: https://www.nassaucou ntyny.gov/527/AnnualTax-Lien-Sale
A list of local properties upon which tax liens are to be sold will be advertised in this publication on or before February 05th, 2026.
Nassau County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services, programs, or activities. Upon request, accommodations such as those required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to participate in all services, programs, activities and public hearings and events conducted by the Treasurer’s Office. Upon request, information can be made available in Braille, large print, audio-tape or other alternative formats. For additional information, please call (516) 571-2090 ext. 1-3715.
Dated: January 22, 2026
THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER
Mineola, New York
TERMS OF SALE
Such tax liens shall be sold subject to any and all superior tax liens of sovereignties and other municipalities and to all claims of record which the County may have thereon and
subject to the provisions of the Federal and State Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Acts. However, such tax liens shall have priority over the County’s Differential Interest Lien, representing the excess, if any, of the interest and penalty borne at the maximum rate over the interest and penalty borne at the rate at which the lien is purchased.
The Purchaser acknowledges that the tax lien(s) sold pursuant to these Terms of Sale may be subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/or may become subject to such proceedings which may be commenced during the period in which a tax lien is held by a successful bidder or the assignee of same, which may modify a Purchaser’s rights with respect to the lien(s) and the property securing same. Such bankruptcy proceedings shall not affect the validity of the tax lien. In addition to being subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/or the Federal and State Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Acts, said purchaser’s right of foreclosure may be affected by the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act (FIRREA),12 U.S.C. ss 1811 et seq., with regard to real property under Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) receivership.
The County Treasurer reserves the right, without further notice and at any time, to withdraw from sale any of the parcels of land or premises herein listed. The Nassau County Treasurer reserves the right to intervene in any bankruptcy case/litigation where the property affected by the tax liens sold by the Treasurer is part of the bankruptcy estate. However, it is the sole responsibility of all tax lien purchasers to protect their legal interests in any bankruptcy case affecting their purchased tax lien, including but not limited to the filing of a proof of claim on their behalf, covering their investment in said tax lien. The Nassau County Treasurer and Nassau County and its
agencies, assumes no responsibility for any legal representation of any tax lien purchaser in any legal proceeding including but not limited to a bankruptcy case where the purchased tax lien is at risk. The rate of interest and penalty at which any person purchases the tax lien shall be established by his bid. Each purchaser, immediately after the sale thereof, shall pay to the County Treasurer ten per cent of the amount for which the tax liens have been sold and the remaining ninety per cent within thirty days after such sale. If the purchaser at the tax sale shall fail to pay the remaining ninety per cent within ten days after he has been notified by the County Treasurer that the certificates of sale are ready for delivery, then all amounts deposited with the County Treasurer including but not limited to the ten per cent theretofore paid by him shall, without further notice or demand, be irrevocably forfeited by the purchaser and shall be retained by the County Treasurer as liquidated damages and the agreement to purchase shall be of no further effect. Time is of the essence in this sale. This sale is held pursuant to the Nassau County Administrative Code and interested parties are referred to such Code for additional information as to terms of the sale, rights of purchasers, maximum rates of interest and other legal incidents of the sale. Furthermore, as to the bidding, 1. The bidder(s) agree that they will not work with any other bidder(s) to increase, maintain or stabilize interest rates or collaborate with any other bidder(s) to gain an unfair competitive advantage in the random number generator in the event of a tie bid(s) on a tax certificate. Bidder(s) further agree not to employ any bidding strategy designed to create an unfair competitive advantage in the tiebreaking process in the upcoming tax sale nor work with any other bidder(s) to engage in any bidding strategy that will result in a rotational award of tax
certificates.
2. The tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) bid, will be arrived at independently and without direct or indirect consultation, communication or agreement with any other bidder and that the tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) to be bid, have not been disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder, and will not be disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder prior to the close of bidding. No attempt has been made or will be made to, directly or indirectly, induce any other bidder to refrain from bidding on any tax certificate, to submit complementary bids, or to submit bids at specific interest rates.
3. The bids to be placed by the Bidder will be made in good faith and not pursuant to any direct or indirect, agreement or discussion with, or inducement from, any other bidder to submit a complementary or other noncompetitive bid.
4. If it is determined that the bidder(s) have violated any of these bid requirements then their bid shall be voided and if they were the successful bidder the lien and any deposits made in connection with said bid shall be forfeited.
Dated: January 22, 2026THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER Mineola, New York 157891
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE OF THE IGLOO SERIES IV TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. DONALD PERILLO, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on June 18, 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 February 24, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 32 North Millpage Drive a/k/a 32 Millpage Drive,
By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com
As winter conditions continue to strain Long Island roadways, Hempstead Town officials are rolling out a new strategy to tackle potholes before they worsen during the busiest repair season of the year.
Town Supervisor John Ferretti announced the launch of the town’s Pothole Patrol during a news conference in Merrick, citing repeated freeze-thaw cycles and heavy traffic as the primary causes of pavement deterioration.
“This is the time of year where potholes form from the constant freezing and melting of rain and snow. They aren’t just an inconvenience — they’re a safety issue,” Ferretti said. “The Pothole Patrol is part of our ongoing commitment to invest in infrastructure and maintain the quality of life enjoyed by our residents. Well-maintained roads protect vehicles, improve safety, and support our local economy.”
The initiative assigns crews to monitor streets daily and respond to reported hazards in an effort to reduce vehicle damage and improve roadway safety. Four newly hired patrol workers attended the event, and town officials said the program includes two dedicated trucks operating at all times, each staffed by four employees and equipped with machinery designed to dispense asphalt quickly.
Unlike previous years, when repairs were largely complaint-driven, the new patrol will actively search for potholes
Bethpage, NY 11714. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Bethpage, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York,
Section 49, Block 177 and Lot 16. Approximate amount of judgment is $636,443.38 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #603235/2023.
throughout the township. Pothole repairs will be prioritized based on traffic volume, visibility, and proximity to high-use locations such as schools and commercial corridors.
The initiative also introduces a new online reporting portal, developed by the town’s Information Technology Department, that allows residents to submit reports directly to the town. Users may enter an address manually or enable GPS location services on their devices to pinpoint a pothole, and photos can be uploaded to assist repair crews.
“We are relying on residents to be our eyes and ears,” Ferretti added. “By reporting potholes through our online form, they will help us prioritize repairs and respond faster. It’s a convenient way for our community to partner with us in keeping our roads in top-tier shape.”
The system can automatically determine whether a reported road falls under town, county, or state jurisdiction, and it will redirect residents if the pothole is outside town responsibility.
Ferretti addressed concerns that patched potholes may reopen, noting that full repaving cannot be done during winter months. Temporary repairs will continue until spring, when repaving resumes. The town maintains roughly 1,200 miles of roadway, repaving more than 100 miles in 2025 and planning to exceed that in 2026 as part of a 12-year plan to resurface every town road.
Residents can now utilize the reporting form at HempsteadTown.com/PotholePatrol.
Robert Gordon Litt, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 223993-1 157922
Fax your ad to: 516-622-7460
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CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE
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Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multi-task, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $17 per hour to $20 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: circulationassociate@liherald.com
Full Time and Part Time Positions Available!
Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239
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MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP
Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
MULTI MEDIA
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Inside Sales
Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $35,360 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
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 $35,360 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
Eldercare Needed
COMPANION WANTED Looking For Female Companion For Elderly Female. Flexible Hours. Must Have Car References Requested Live-in Position Possible 516-652-1453
Q. Every winter I get terrible colds, and this year I got a postcard from a company that cleans air conditioning ducts. Does this help? I’m concerned about stirring up more dust. What else can I do except buy one of those portable air cleaners?
A. These days, with all the requirements for home energy savings, airtight homes and pressurized air testing, homes are much more likely to have impurities in the air. Homes used to be built with alkali-laden plaster, which mold couldn’t live on. People wore sweaters, because windows leaked cold air and homes were cooler. It seems that modern materials and methods actually brought on more sickness.
The paper backing on gypsum wallboard provides an excellent place in a dark wall cavity for mold spores to live. Inert, sprayed-in foam does help, but most people are intimidated by the cost. Carpets gather dust and, when vacuumed, may release more impurities into the air.
Cleaning hard-walled metal air ducts is a good idea after a couple of years of continuous use. If you only use the system in midsummer heat spells, the main reason to clean the ducts is because dust settles there and adheres to the sides of the air ducts. Spores and other mold prosper in the layers of dust, and can remain inactive until moisture is present, which is why, at certain times of the year, condensation from cold meeting warm air allows the mold to develop.
You should be aware that some air conditioning companies make life easier for themselves by putting in flexible, soft, round duct, which comprises an inner lining of foil attached to a wire spiral frame covered with a thin layer of fiberglass insulation and a plastic sheeting cover. The system installation costs less if the installer passes on the savings to you, and is simpler to install. By simpler, I mean that duct tape is used instead of mechanical fastening with bends of metal and screws.
Unfortunately, you can’t clean flex duct, since the devices used to clean duct apply pressure, with vacuum and scraping techniques that will destroy your flex duct and render your system useless. You should consider cleaning the main “trunks,” which are probably made of metal duct. Duct cleaning is the first step to better breathing in the home. Then, after cleaning, have a reliable mechanical contractor install a filter in your central air conditioning unit, so you have “in-line” filtration.
Ask about the different types of filter systems, such as an electronic, static-type unit that catches dust like a magnet, and also how often the filter requires cleaning or replacement. Don’t just look for the lowest-priced unit, since the maintenance or replacement of the filter may be much more than the savings. With the electrostatic filter, you may be able to simply wash the filter and put it back. Once the filter is installed, you won’t require the portable type, and you should breathe easier, which is nothing to sneeze at.
© 2026 Monte Leeper
Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question”
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Most people don’t think about local government when it’s running smoothly. They think about it when they hit a pothole.
A deep pothole can damage a car, cause an accident, slow emergency vehicles and frustrate fellow commuters who are trying to get to work or pick up their kids. Multiply that by the nearly 800,000 residents of the Town of Hempstead using 1,200 miles of roadway, and you begin to understand why road maintenance remains a core responsibility of local municipalities. We are now well into winter, and the pothole cycle has begun. The rain and snow will trickle beneath the surface of our roadways, the freezing and thawing will weaken the pavement and the daily traffic will finish the job. By late winter
and early spring, potholes will be popping up across our roadways. We know it’s coming every year, so it leaves local government with a choice: react slowly and bureaucratically, or respond quickly and fix problems before they get worse.
OThat’s why we’ve deployed the Town of Hempstead’s Pothole Patrol, a dedicated effort to identify and repair potholes quickly and efficiently during peak pothole season. We’ve also launched a new, user-friendly online portal that allows residents to report potholes in just a few clicks: hempsteadtown.com/potholepatrol.
a user to upload a photo of the problem area.
ur focus on efficiency extends well beyond road repairs, to cutting taxes.
I believe that good government should be practical. When residents see a problem, reporting it shouldn’t require navigating layers of red tape or making multiple phone calls. If you see a problem, you can tell us exactly where it is, and our teams can prioritize repairs based on real-time information. This website uses location services — if allowed — to report potholes and allows
This approach to an important government service reflects a broader principle that I believe in strongly: Government works best when it is streamlined, responsive and focused on results. Filling potholes isn’t glamorous, but it’s the kind of basic service that builds trust. When residents see their concerns addressed quickly, they know their government is listening, and working. This isn’t about reinventing government — it’s about making government work the way it should be working.
The town remains committed to repaving more than 100 miles of roadway each year, guided by responsible budgeting and strategic planning. Repairs are prioritized based on safety concerns, traffic volume and weather conditions, not politics or headlines. That’s how infrastructure should be managed — thoughtfully, consistently
and with the utmost respect for taxpayers’ dollars.
This focus on efficiency extends well beyond road repairs. By tightening operations, eliminating waste and managing taxpayer dollars responsibly, I — along with the Town Board — have been able to cut taxes while still delivering essential services and investing in infrastructure. That’s an important point: fiscal discipline and strong public services are not mutually exclusive. In fact, when government is run efficiently, residents shouldn’t have to choose between safe roads and lower taxes.
At the end of the day, filling potholes is about more than asphalt. It’s about a philosophy of governance that values efficiency over excuses and action over delay. When government focuses on doing the basics well — maintaining roads, keeping neighborhoods safe and making services accessible — everyone benefits.
When we fill the holes in our roads and remove the ones in government, the path forward is smoother for everyone.
John Ferretti is the Town of Hempstead supervisor.
We are in the midst of a growing public health crisis, one that especially impacts senior citizens. Fortunately, everyone can take an active role in solving it, not just scientists, researchers and health care professionals.
Loneliness and social isolation are widespread. One in three American adults reported feeling lonely, while one in four conveyed having no social and emotional support, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This goes far beyond occasional feelings of loneliness or disconnect that everyone experiences periodically, or briefly going off the grid to recharge the body and mind. Someone who is socially isolated has few relationships and little contact with others, while those who are lonely feel like they lack meaningful or close relationships or a sense of belonging.
Research shows that prolonged loneliness and social isolation increase the risk of numerous health conditions, including cognitive decline and memory loss, depression, anxiety, stress, high
blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. They can also make existing illnesses worse; someone with Alzheimer’s disease, for example, may have accelerated symptoms due to lack of social and mental stimulation. For caregivers, they can lead to caregiver burnout.
pRegular social engagement helps stimulate the brain and support cognitive health, improves mood, encourages physical activity and better sleep, and strengthens emotional resilience. As is the case with other lifestyle choices — healthy diet, exercise, proper sleep, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption — prioritizing or neglecting it influences numerous facets of health. Loneliness and isolation occur in people of all ages, and senior citizens are especially susceptible. Older adults isolate for many reasons. Some live alone after the loss of a spouse, and don’t have relatives or close friends nearby. Others face mobility issues, such as not being able to drive and lacking alternative transportation, or have a health condition that makes going out harder. Mobility challenges are even more problematic on Long Island during the winter, when the weather makes leaving the house harder. Fear, embarrassment and self-consciousness can
also lead people to withdraw. Technology can partially bridge the gap, but not all seniors feel comfortable using video calls, smartphones or social media. Without support and training, many are left disconnected from family, friends and the larger community.
eople of all ages can feel lonely and isolated, but especially seniors.
An estimated 111,000 Long Islanders ages 65 and older — roughly one out of every five seniors — live alone, according to Newsday. Fortunately, there are a variety of free resources available to help them strengthen social bonds and stay connected.
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America offers free daily activity programming at its AFA Barbara Rabinowitz Education & Resource Center in Amityville, including music, creative arts, rhythm and movement, and brain games. The activities are dementia-friendly, but you don’t need to have a dementia-related illness to participate; programming is open to all seniors. Learn more and view upcoming free activities at afalongisland.org, or call the center at (631) 2234000.
Municipal senior centers offer programs and opportunities to socialize with other nearby residents. Local libraries offer activities, social gatherings and group outings, many of which center on learning about or trying some-
thing new, an added benefit for brain health. Religious institutions often have social groups for their congregations and the community.
Look into these and other options if you’re feeling lonely, and find something you might enjoy. It may require you to step out of your comfort zone, but chances are it will be worth it. We can all take small steps in our daily lives that will make a big difference. Visit or call someone instead of texting or emailing them (especially if they’re older); it will help both of you feel more connected. Encourage someone to take advantage of the services described above, and go along with them to help them break the ice. Check in with family, friends and elderly neighbors periodically to see if they need anything; that simple act will remind them that someone is thinking of them, and promote feelings of connectivity.
Social connection isn’t a luxury — it is essential for maintaining physical health, cognitive function, emotional well-being and overall quality of life. Unlike other health conditions, loneliness and isolation can’t be cured or medicated with pills. Helping hands and warm hearts are the necessary treatments. Every one of us can provide them.
Charles J. Fuschillo Jr., of Merrick, is president and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.
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Incorporating the Wantagh/Seaford Citizen in 2013
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New York’s volunteer firefighters and emergency service personnel have long been the backbone of the state’s emergency response system. On Long Island and across New York, they respond not only to fires, but also to car accidents, medical emergencies, storms and disasters of every kind.
Their service saves taxpayers an estimated $3.8 billion each year, according to the Firefighters Association of the State of New York. Yet despite their value, volunteer departments are struggling to recruit and retain enough members to meet growing demands.
The reasons are familiar. Potential volunteers say they don’t have the time, that the commitment feels overwhelming, or that the system is simply too complicated to navigate. Cultural and economic changes have made it harder for people to give unpaid time, and the numbers show it: New York’s volunteer fire service has declined from roughly 120,000 members in the early 2000s to about 80,000 today. While this is not yet a full-blown crisis, it is a warning sign that action is needed now.
Now, FASNY is proposing the next step: the Volunteer Optimization Legislative Initiative. This package of 14 straightforward actions is designed to modernize how New York supports volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel, making service more feasible for today’s families and workers. Importantly, these initiatives would apply uniformly across the state, ensuring fairness and consistency for all volunteer departments.
For more than a decade, FASNY has
worked to reverse the decline in the number of volunteers. Through initiatives like Train the Recruiter classes and a statewide outreach campaign, the organization has consistently pushed creative solutions.
In recent years, that effort has been strengthened by a productive partnership with Gov. Kathy Hochul and many state legislators. Together they have delivered training stipends, grants for capital improvements and funding for equipment purchases that have made a real difference in communities statewide.
At its core, VOLI recognizes that volunteers should not be penalized financially for serving. Several proposals focus on meaningful tax relief, including an enhanced volunteer firefighter and EMS income tax credit, the ability to combine such credits with property tax exemptions, and new credits to help offset child care and family-related expenses. Housing affordability is addressed with exemptions from mortgage recording taxes and optional local relief on recording fees, helping volunteers live in the communities they protect.
Other initiatives acknowledge the real, day-to-day costs of volunteering. VOLI would allow departments or authorities having jurisdiction to reimburse volunteers’ reasonable out-ofpocket expenses without creating tax burdens. It also proposes incentives for on-call duty shifts through the Length of Service Award Program, and statefunded reimbursement mechanisms to help smaller departments afford these benefits.
Workplace realities are another major
barrier to volunteering, and VOLI tackles this head-on. Employer tax incentives would encourage businesses to hire volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel while allowing them to respond during business hours. At the same time, volunteers would gain stronger workplace protections.
Equally important, the initiative would prohibit local governments, unions or bargaining units from preventing career firefighters from volunteering in their home communities, expanding the potential pool of experienced responders.
Safety and fairness are also central themes. VOLI would bring volunteer injury benefits in line with standard workers’ compensation, ensuring equal protection when volunteers are hurt in the line of duty. It would also expand eligibility for training stipends, public service loan forgiveness, and state tuition assistance, recognizing that education and training benefit both volunteers and the communities they serve.
Taken together, these 14 initiatives do not represent radical change. They are practical, thoughtful updates that reflect modern economic realities while respecting the proud tradition of volunteer service.
With the new state legislative session under way, FASNY representatives will discuss these proposals. Implementing at least a majority of them, if not all, would strengthen recruitment and retention, protect taxpayers, and help ensure that New York’s volunteer fire and EMS system remains strong for generations to come.
Both parties share the blame for the mess we’re in
To the Editor:
Re Jerry Kremer’s column in the Jan. 1-7 issue, “For President Trump, too many missed opportunities,” I will try to be as fair and balanced as possible.
Neither a Democrat nor a Republican, I’m an independent. We are as divided as ever, but the fault for that lies at the feet of both parties. Their respective loyalties override the business of representing the needs of the people.
Since the beginning of President Trump’s second term, no matter whatever good he has done, Democrats find fault with it. The reality is that he inherited a domestic as well as an international mess that was administered by behind-thescenes figures who were propping up a cognitive declined president. A year into
if you walked through the streets of Manhattan, Los Angeles, Baltimore, Chicago or Portland last year, you could hardly miss them: endless Gaza protests, celebrities on bullhorns, and nonstop media coverage treating every chant as a moral imperative.
Susan Sarandon, Mark Ruffalo and a parade of progressive icons were everywhere, lecturing the world on justice. Now that courageous Iranians are risking their lives in the streets, confronting a brutal regime, where are these moral megaphones? Where are the hashtags, the celebrity rallies and the tearjerking op-eds?
The silence is deafening.
In Iran, protesters are facing a government that has crushed dissent for decades. Hundreds of people have reportedly been killed for demanding basic freedoms. These men and women aren’t marching for Instagram applause. They are risking imprisonment, torture and death. Yet celebrity rallies vanish, elite media campaigns are absent, and the activists who claim to speak for the oppressed suddenly
office, Trump has to address affordability, with everyday costs that are crushing the majority of Americans. The expense of groceries, health care, auto and homeowner’s insurance and prescription drugs are forcing people to make hard choices, because dollars can be stretched only so far. Interest rates for mortgages and loans are still too high.
The other reality is that the president has a nine-month window to address affordability, or he will lose Congress in November. Describing it as a “hoax” was ill-advised and alienating. If Trump loses Congress, the remainder of his presidency will be tied up in gridlock and attempts to impeach him. Nothing will get done, and the American people will go backward — while the two-party system, which has outlived its usefulness, will flourish. Promoting their own agendas to finagle and scheme to stay in power, the parties will do nothing to respond to the needs of everyday people, but everything for the special interests, lobbyists, and big campaign contributors.
have nothing to say.
The left’s silence on Iran has nothing to do with principle. Their outrage is selective, because the oppressor isn’t Israel and the victims aren’t Jewish. When a cause can’t be weaponized against America or Israel, moral alarm disappears. Outrage is on demand, but only when it fits the narrative.
wFeminist voices are especially absent. Iranian women have lived under systemic oppression for nearly 47 years, subject to forced dress codes, restricted movement and brutal punishment for defiance. They are beaten, jailed and killed for demanding basic freedoms. Activists who flood social media, claiming to defend women everywhere, remain silent. Feminism filtered through ideology becomes performative rather than principled.
here were Sarandon and Ruffalo when Iranian women faced batons and bullets?
gram post receives nonstop amplification. Celebrities march alongside activists who openly embrace movements hostile to America and Israel. Symbols of terror-linked groups are tolerated or ignored. Meanwhile, ordinary Iranians who oppose the same terror-sponsoring regime receive barely a whisper. This is not moral consistency; it is ideological selectivity.
Most liberal universities provide a stark example. Administrations have tolerated or encouraged anti-Israel demonstrations while staying silent on Iranian protesters. Students who shut down lecture halls over foreign conflicts now say nothing as a regime executes dissenters and suppresses women. Silence becomes policy when outrage is inconvenient.
human rights, outrage over Tehran would match outrage over Jerusalem. Its imbalance reveals priorities that are political, not principled — and this issue is about principle, not theology. Iranian protesters demand liberty and dignity — the same rights claimed by Americans at our founding. But modern activist leftists treat Iranians’ struggle as an afterthought. Any conflict framed as “us versus the West” gets broadcast; real freedom fighters are ignored.
Where were Sarandon and Ruffalo when Iranian women faced batons and bullets? Where were the big-name voices condemning internet blackouts, executions and arrests? Their outrage is transactional and performative. When there is no ideological payoff, there is no protest. When there is no camera angle, there is no solidarity.
The silence from LGBTQ organizations is equally revealing. Homosexuality is criminalized under Iran’s regime, and public expressions of LGBTQ identity are punishable by death. If slogans and flags in American protests were serious, Iran would be condemned first. Instead activists look away, showing that their concern is political alignment, not life or liberty.
Contrast this with the Gaza protests. Every banner, every chant, every Insta-
President Trump provides a sharp contrast. Unlike celebrity activists, Trump has consistently condemned the Iranian regime’s violence and warned of consequences if the crackdown continues. That is leadership. He stands with people who fight for freedom, not people who kneel for photo ops. The president doesn’t pick and choose human rights based on hashtags. He knows that regimes that brutalize citizens and export terror are enemies of freedom.
If the left truly believed in universal
Framework by Tim Baker
Real conservatives and courageous Americans see tyranny for what it is, wherever it occurs. They support Israel because it is a democratic ally amid hostile regimes. They support Iranians’ fighting for freedom because liberty is universal.
The left has an opportunity to prove it genuinely cares about human rights. Until it does, its moral hypocrisy will remain on full display. Outrage on demand is not justice. True courage stands with freedom — everywhere, every time.
Ari Brown represents the 20th Assembly District.
