Daniel Offner
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Award-winning news editor, music entertainment journalist, photographer, radio personality, occasional artist, diehard hockey fan, cannabis cultivator, cat dad
Articles by Daniel Offner
Danny Elfman brings One-of-a-Kind Show to Central Park
Grammy-Award winning composer, songwriter and musician Danny Elfman treated concertgoers at Central Park SummerStage to a special performance on Sept. 15, featuring a selection of seasonal Oingo Boingo classics, unreleased tracks, and hit TV and film themes performed by a live orchestra and choir. Elfman still sounds great for the ripe old age of 73.
Far Rockaway Renames Street for Lionel “Chinx” Pickens
Lionel “Chinx” Pickens was destined for success. Born in Brooklyn and raised in Far Rockaway, he became one of the most recognizable voices of 2010-era street rap. His career was just taking off, with plans for his major label debut, “Welcome to JFK,” only three months away when, on May 17, 2015, the 31-year-old rapper, husband and father, was shot and killed on his way home from Brooklyn.
In Focus: Peter Hook and the Light at Brooklyn Paramount
Peter Hook, former bassist and co-founding member of Joy Division and New Order performed 29 songs across two hefty sets on Saturday, September 5, for his first New York City performance since Brooklyn Steel in 2024.
A New Sound for an Old Landmark
Michael Diamond, better known as “Mike D” of the Beastie Boys, celebrated the release of his highly anticipated solo debut, “Thank You,” with an intimate outdoor performance at the newly opened Rockaway Ocean Club last Friday night. The album, available now from Capitol Records, is the first release from a member of the iconic hip-hop trio since their eighth and final studio album, “Hot Sauce Committee Part II,” was released in 2011.
Dinosaur Jr. perform pop-up at Tompkins Square Park
Dinosaur Jr. and friends treated fans to a free DIY pop-up show at Tompkins Square Park on Friday, Aug. 28 to promote the release of their new album, There Near, out now on all streaming platforms. The concert was announced early Friday morning after plans for a free Saturday afternoon show at Maria Hernandez Park in Brooklyn moved to TV Eye in Ridgewood, Queens.
Downtown Trenton celebrates graffiti culture with a week of community events
Muralist Leon Rainbow will flex his skills at the “Downtown Gets Up” event in Trenton. The wisps of aerosol cans and vibrant bursts of color will fill the air along East State Street next week as part of a new public arts initiative dedicated to the evolution and cultural influence of graffiti and street art.
“One Of The Most Rewarding Projects”
In an effort to give back to families in the surrounding community, representatives with The New Terminal One at John F. Kennedy (JFK) International Airport recently donated bedroom and living room furniture to a local family of four in Far Rockaway. Working with baggage system builder Vanderlande, moving partners Airway, and community partner Global25, the team helped transport gently used furniture from the Wavecrest Apartments, early last Tuesday, to a young family with twins. Uzoamaka N.
Redfern Residents Protest Outside Courthouse
Residents of New York City Housing Authority’s Redfern Houses in Far Rockaway are fed up with dust and debris drifting over from the Inwood Material Terminal, just across the Nassau County line. “It comes through the windows, lands on the people’s furniture and surfaces, and it’s causing people to have to do more cleaning, and also some respiratory issues as well as skin irritation,” said Kimberly Comes, the president of the Redfern Housing Resident Council.
Top 100 albums from New York City 2025
Press enter or click to view image in full size Here we are — more than nine years and over 600 albums later. You might think that 100 albums would provide plenty of breathing room, but this list somehow gets harder every year as artists keep raising the bar. Sure, it would be easier to focus strictly on new artists or split things up by genre, but I love the challenge of spotlighting new releases from longtime New York favorites while discovering fresh voices along the way.
From Long Island to Lincoln Center
Last season, Christian Van Horn, left, in the role of “Four Villains” in The Metropolitan Opera’s production of Offenbach’s “Les contes d’Hoffmann,” which received a Live in HD broadcast Courtesy Met Opera With a voice that can “shake the heavens” (Opera Today), bass-baritone Christian Van Horn is known for his compelling and charismatic stage presence, powerful voice and his unwavering authenticity, both on and off the stage.
From Long Island to Lincoln Center
Last season, Christian Van Horn, left, in the role of “Four Villains” in The Metropolitan Opera’s production of Offenbach’s “Les contes d’Hoffmann,” which received a Live in HD broadcast Courtesy Met Opera With a voice that can “shake the heavens” (Opera Today), bass-baritone Christian Van Horn is known for his compelling and charismatic stage presence, powerful voice and his unwavering authenticity, both on and off the stage.
Center stage at the Metropolitan Opera with Christian Van Horn - Herald Community Newspapers
By Daniel Offner Growing up in the shadow of Manhattan motivated him to strive for the highest level, knowing that the world’s best performers were only a short train ride away. With a voice that can “shake the heavens” (Opera Today), bass-baritone Christian Van Horn is known for his compelling and charismatic stage presence, powerful voice and his unwavering authenticity, both on and off the stage. “New York City was always kind of calling to us,” Van Horn says.
Center stage at the Metropolitan Opera with Christian Van Horn - Herald Community Newspapers
By Daniel Offner Growing up in the shadow of Manhattan motivated him to strive for the highest level, knowing that the world’s best performers were only a short train ride away. With a voice that can “shake the heavens” (Opera Today), bass-baritone Christian Van Horn is known for his compelling and charismatic stage presence, powerful voice and his unwavering authenticity, both on and off the stage. “New York City was always kind of calling to us,” Van Horn says.
Center stage at the Metropolitan Opera with Christian Van Horn - Herald Community Newspapers
By Daniel Offner With a voice that can “shake the heavens” (Opera Today), bass-baritone Christian Van Horn is known for his compelling and charismatic stage presence, powerful voice and his unwavering authenticity, both on and off the stage. Growing up in the shadow of Manhattan motivated him to strive for the highest level, knowing that the world’s best performers were only a short train ride away. “New York City was always kind of calling to us,” Van Horn says.
Traditional Irish Music and Dance Returns to Rockaway
Photo courtesy of Ann Marie Acosta The Killoran-Clancy-Whelan and Mulligan-Quinn branches of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann will bring an afternoon of Irish music, song, dance, and language back to Rockaway Beach next month. The family- and community-focused event will take place Sunday, Jan. 4, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus, 333 Beach 90th St., in Rockaway Beach. “When I grew up in Rockaway Beach, there was always an Irish vibe.
QBC Unites Fans Amid Offseason Turmoil
After a brutal week for New York Mets fans, the annual Queens Baseball Convention offered a sense of camaraderie, fandom, and cautious optimism as uncertainty looms over the franchise this offseason. ... You've reached your free story limit. Please login or purchase a subscription to view this story. Remember Me
Holiday joy to homebound residents courtesy of Wantagh Middle School students - Herald Community Newspapers
Wantagh Middle School students are helping to spread some holiday cheer to homebound residents this Thanksgiving by writing touching letters to accompany meals delivered across Long Island. The school’s librarian, Amelia Weber, spearheaded the project by inviting students and faculty to help pen hundreds of heartfelt messages for older adults, disabled and financially struggling residents who often spend the holiday alone. “I have gotten a mountain of cards and letters so far,” Weber said.
Nassau County salutes those who served - Herald Community Newspapers
By Daniel Offner In recognition of the thousands of men and women across Long Island who served or are actively serving in the United States Armed Forces, members of the Nassau County community gathered in front of the memorial at Eisenhower Park on Nov. 9 to honor local veterans for their courage and sacrifice.
Rockville Centre Honors local veterans with moving Veterans Day ceremony - Herald Community Newspapers
In observance of Veterans Day, the Village of Rockville Centre held a ceremony Tuesday morning inside the John A. Anderson Recreation Center to honor and recognize local veterans, including U.S. Army veteran Mike Betzag, and thank them for their service. “It was an eye-opening experience,” Betzag said of his time in the military.
Favorite films of 2025 so far
Weapons - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2 Ingeniously interwoven stories come crashing into each other in a completely original and absolutely brutal way. Zach Cregger is quickly becoming Hollywood's favorite horror writer/director and it's pretty easy to see why - his new movie, Weapons, is unlike anything audiences have seen before. In a recent interview with Letterboxd, Cregger explains how films like Prisoners and Magnolia played a role in inspiring the film's suburban setting and multi-layered story structure.
From Rockaway to Rock ‘N’ Roll Fame
Kenny Vance, 81, attends the July 10 screening of his documentary film, “Heart and Soul: A Love Story,” at the Museum of the City of New York. Photo by Angie Vasquez Kenny Vance lived in Belle Harbor ... You've reached your free story limit. Please login or purchase a subscription to view this story. Remember Me
Farewell to the Prince of Darkness
There isn’t much more I can say about Ozzy Osbourne that hasn’t already been said. But the loss still stings – and deserves more than just a catchy headline. Ozzy was one of a kind. As the frontman of Black Sabbath, he helped shape the foundation of heavy metal music. With songs like “Iron Man” and “War Pigs” they pushed the boundaries of rock into darker, stranger, louder territory. It was unlike anything anyone had heard before.
World-famous Britpop brothers reunite - but for how long?
Oasis took the world by storm in the early ’90s. Widely considered a pillar of the Britpop sound, they went on to become one of the most successful rock bands in history. Following their acclaimed debut Definitely Maybe in 1994, the band struck gold again a year later with (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? – an album that produced era-defining hits like “Wonderwall” and “Champagne Supernova.” By 1996, you couldn’t avoid hearing them on the radio.
Review: Turnstile tops the charts with ‘Never Enough’
Every now and then, a project comes along so captivating and multifaceted that it manages to break through into the mainstream. Baltimore-based hardcore band Turnstile has steadily gained popularity since the release of their 2021 album Glow On, which earned them two Grammy nominations and landed them on countless year-end lists. At the risk of catching some flack online, I think it’s worth noting that Turnstile isn’t what I’d strictly classify as hardcore.
Review: Hotline TNT cranks up the fuzz and feels on ‘Raspberry Moon’
Hotline TNT embraces a more collaborative spirit with Raspberry Moon, the band’s third full-length studio album, available now from Third Man Records. Following the success of Cartwheel (2023), frontman and principal songwriter Will Anderson wanted to bring in members of his touring band, as the New York City-based shoegaze project had largely been a solo endeavor up to this point.
Kendrick didn’t hold any punches
Super Bowl halftime show reignites beef Daniel Offner · Follow Published in Offner Offbeat · 5 min read · -- Kendrick Lamar performs at Super Bowl LIX (Photo/YouTube) Fans of the Kansas City Chiefs may still be recuperating after the blowout against the Philadelphia Eagles, but the real surprise of Super Bowl LIX was Kendrick Lamar’s halftime performance and the implications it has in the on the ongoing beef with Drake.
Rockville Centre deputy superintendent is set to retire
John Murphy, a cornerstone of the Rockville Centre School District for 28 years, is set to retire in June. Murphy, who began his career in 1997 as an English teacher at South Side High School, has held numerous roles, including International Baccalaureate coordinator, assistant principal, principal, and assistant superintendent for human resources. In August, the Board of Education appointed him deputy superintendent, a role in which he continued to make a significant impact.
Rabbi Michael Cohen's tenure to end in June
Central Synagogue-Beth Emeth will not be renewing its contract with Rabbi Michael Cohen after nearly five years of service in the community. The decision was made by the CSBE Board of Trustees during a congregational meeting on Nov. 21, where members voted to bring in new spiritual leadership starting July 1. “The congregation chose to go in a different direction,” Rabbi Cohen told the Herald.
Rockville Centre UPK program expands
The Rockville Centre School District’s universal prekindergarten program continues to grow, providing a nurturing foundation for its youngest learners through an inquiry-based curriculum, family engagement, and strong community partnerships. Operating across two campuses—the Friedberg JCC in Oceanside and the John A. Anderson Recreation Center—the program serves 87 students. It remains a cornerstone of the district’s early childhood education efforts.
South Side science research students recognized for achievements
South Side High School students Elena Mingorance and Sadie Seulal are making waves in the scientific community, earning invitations to prestigious conferences to present their groundbreaking research. Mingorance will present her research at the American Physical Society conference in March, the world’s largest physics conference. “It takes scientists across all disciplines in physics, including physical chemists, which is similar to what my project is,” Mingorance said.
SIBSPlace rings in the holiday season
The magic of Christmas filled the air on Dec. 20, as more than 160 attendees gathered at SIBSPlace in Rockville Centre for its annual holiday party. The event brought together families navigating severe illness and loss together for a heartwarming celebration filled yuletide fun and activities including arts and crafts, sing-a-longs, delicious food and a surprise visit from Santa.
The Village of Rockville Centre Civic Association hosts its first meeting
The desire to form the Village of Rockville Centre Civic Association has become a reality, thanks to the efforts of Meghan Kearns and her steering committee.
Laura Gillen heads to Washington representing New York’s 4th Congressional District
Election Day was a whirlwind of excitement for Laura Gillen, the newly elected Democratic representative of New York’s 4th Congressional District. “Election days are always very exciting, and a little bit nerve-racking as you wait for the results to come in,” she said. Gillen, a former Hempstead town supervisor, was joined by her family and campaign team as the polls closed and the results began coming in.
South Side hosts 6th annual alumni lacrosse game
The state lacrosse champions wrapped up an extraordinary year with an event that has swiftly evolved into a beloved holiday tradition in the Rockville Centre community. While families and friends gathered around dining tables to enjoy a hearty Thanksgiving dinner complete with mashed potatoes, turkey, gravy, stuffing and cranberry sauce, another kind of tradition was unfolding outside South Side High School.
Lead poses a threat to home water lines
The Village of Rockville Centre is urging property owners to replace galvanized steel water service lines, which pose a risk of absorbing lead from previously installed pipes. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, galvanized service lines are classified as “requiring replacement” if they were previously downstream of lead pipes. These lines can absorb lead, which may increase the risk of exposure through drinking water.
South Side's production of 'Pride and Prejudice’ delights audiences
South Side High School’s Drama Guild brought Jane Austen’s beloved 1813 novel “Pride and Prejudice” to the stage from November 20 - 23. Directed by Russell Dembin, the students delivered a spirited performance based on Kate Hamill’s adaptation of the literary classic.
Play 4 Mary weekend raises $5,400
The second annual Play 4 Mary weekend at St. Agnes Cathedral School raised $5,400 for the Mary Ruchalski Foundation, uniting more than 250 young athletes and their families for three days of basketball, community, and fundraising. The event, held from Nov. 21-24, featured 19 Catholic Youth Organization games with players from eight schools. Funds were raised through bake sales, merchandise sales, and a 50/50 raffle, with proceeds supporting families battling pediatric cancer.
Tommy Brull Foundation hosts 26th concert
The Tommy Brull Foundation has raised money for individuals with physical, mental, and emotional challenges since 2008. Rockville Centre native Martin Brull founded the nonprofit in memory of his brother, Tommy, who died in a 1999 car accident near the Williamsburg Bridge. “I wanted to do something a little different that really reflected the way that Tommy was,” Brull said. “He loved music. We loved music together.
Judge confirms Diocese of Rockville Centre bankruptcy plan
The four-year legal battle between the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rockville Centre and the survivors of more than 600 child sexual abuse allegations came to a conclusion on Wednesday. Chief Judge Martin Glenn of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York approved the terms of the diocese’s Chapter 11 reorganization plan on Dec. 4, which includes the terms of a $323 million settlement to be paid out in a trust.
Police to install cameras along ‘the bridge’
Law enforcement officials in Rockville Centre are ramping up efforts to address a well-known spot for underage drinking and illegal activities. The overpass on Peninsula Boulevard, between North Village Avenue and Hempstead Lake State Park — known locally as “the bridge” — has long been a popular gathering spot for teenagers taking part in late-night bonfires, weekend parties and other risky behavior.
Historic homestead faced with the potential of redevelopment
A Civil War-era homestead at 24 South Park Ave. in Rockville Centre is one of the last remaining vestiges in the area that predates the incorporated village. “It is one of the oldest houses in the village,” Matt Cliszis, village historian and member of the Rockville Centre Historical Society, said.
Freeport family brings baby home after 64 days in NICU
For Perla and Dahibel Perez of Freeport, this November is especially meaningful. Not only is it Prematurity Awareness Month, but it’s also the month they were finally able to bring their baby girl, Daila, home for the first time. Dalia was born on Sept. 4, after just 28 weeks. She weighed 1 pound and 13 ounces and spent the next 64 days in Catholic Health Mercy Hospital’s Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
Tommy Brull Foundation hosts 17th annual fundraiser
The Tommy Brull Foundation’s 17th annual fundraiser on Nov. 23 at the St. Agnes Parish Center will focus on 12-year-old Shea Hubbard as the main benefactor. Shea, a sixth grader at South Side Middle School in Rockville Centre, loves both playing and watching hockey and baseball. He’s a dedicated fan of the New York Islanders and the Mets. In September, Shea began experiencing difficulties on the ice, prompting his parents to take him to the emergency room. An MRI revealed a bleeding brain cavernoma.
Rockville Centre Police Department's Pellegrino promoted to lieutenant
The Village of Rockville Centre joined law enforcement officials with the Rockville Centre Police Department on Nov. 4, to announce the promotion of veteran officer Peter Pellegrino to the rank of Lieutenant. “Tonight, we come together to recognize an elevated leader who has dedicated his career to the highest standards of integrity, service and professionalism,” Police Commissioner Randy Dodd said. “We honor his dedication with a promotion to lieutenant.
He served the country. Now, the county.
Kerry Englander, a U.S. Navy veteran and longtime member of American Legion Post 1711 in Levittown, was appointed the Legion’s Nassau County commander in June. Representing nearly 30,000 veterans across 52 posts, he now oversees efforts to support those who served. Englander, 79, joined Levittown Post 1711 in 2008, starting as historian before being named second vice commander.
He served the country. Now, the county. - Herald Community Newspapers
Kerry Englander, a U.S. Navy veteran and longtime member of American Legion Post 1711 in Levittown, was appointed the Legion’s Nassau County commander in June. Representing nearly 30,000 veterans across 52 posts, he now oversees efforts to support those who served. Englander, 79, joined Levittown Post 1711 in 2008, starting as historian before being named second vice commander.
Rockville Centre police detective arrested for hate crime
Rockville Centre police detective John Murphy has been charged with a hate crime after allegedly lashing out at a cellphone technician, damaging his car while using racial slurs. Murphy, 40, of Manorville, was arrested by Suffolk County police following an incident on November 3 at the corner of Sylvan Court and Weeks Avenue.
TGI Fridays closes up Rockville Centre location
TGI Fridays in Rockville Centre is among nearly 50 locations across the country that closed this past week, ahead of news that the casual dining chain filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Saturday. Rohit Manocha, executive chairman of TGI Fridays, said that the primary source of the Dallas-based company’s financial challenges stem from the Covid-19 pandemic and structural capital issues.
St. Agnes Knights of Columbus Council marks 100 years
The St. Agnes Knights of Columbus Council No. 2548 celebrated its 100th anniversary last Saturday night at the Parish Center, commemorating a century of faith-driven service and dedication to the Rockville Centre community. This milestone event was filled with heartfelt reflections on the council’s rich history, the impact of its charitable work, and a call to continue its service for generations to come. Founded on Nov.
Real estate executive joins Bethany House board
Gloria Romanowski, a veteran real estate advisor at Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty in Rockville Centre, has been elected to the board of directors at Bethany House, a Baldwin-based nonprofit that provides emergency shelter to homeless women and their children. “It’s a tremendous honor,” Romanowski said.
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