Daily Voice Readers’ Choice

Accepting Votes Now Through Friday, December 20th

CEO Murder: ABC To Air New 20/20 Special On Case - Here's When CEO Murder: ABC To Air New 20/20 Special On Case - Here's When
CEO Murder: ABC To Air New 20/20 Special On Case - Here's When A shocking crime that has captivated the nation is the focus of a new TV special. ABC News Studios primetime one-hour program, "Manhunt: Luigi Mangione and the CEO Murder – A Special Edition of 20/20" premieres Thursday, Dec. 19, from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. EST on ABC, with streaming available the following day on Hulu. The program examines the case of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson's murder on Wednesday, Dec. 4 in Manhattan, a story that sparked national attention and a surprising social media movement hailing suspect Luigi Mangione as a folk hero for some. Featuring a detailed breakdown…
Flu Cases, Hospitalizations Rising Dramatically In New York: Here's What To Know Now Flu Cases, Hospitalizations Rising Dramatically In New York: Here's What To Know Now
Flu Cases, Hospitalizations Rising Dramatically In New York: Here's What To Know Now Flu activity is now widespread across New York State, prompting an advisory from authorities. Under this declaration by State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald, healthcare workers who are not vaccinated against the flu must wear masks in certain settings to protect vulnerable patients. “The flu vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect against infection,” said Dr. McDonald. “It’s not too late to get vaccinated and ensure you don’t miss out on holiday celebrations.” Flu cases are surging across the state.  As of Saturday, Dec. 14, more than 23,000 cases have been r…
Backyard Fossil Jackpot: Ancient Mastodon Jaw Unearthed In New York Backyard Fossil Jackpot: Ancient Mastodon Jaw Unearthed In New York
Backyard Fossil Jackpot: Ancient Mastodon Jaw Unearthed In New York A backyard in New York became the site of a remarkable prehistoric discovery when a homeowner unearthed a complete and well-preserved jaw of a mastodon, an ancient relative of modern elephants. Alongside the jaw, researchers also uncovered a toe bone fragment and a piece of a rib. The discovery began in the Hudson Valley when the Orange County resident noticed two large teeth protruding from the soil beneath a plant near the home in Scotchtown, according to the New York State Museum in a social media post on Tuesday, Dec. 17. After further digging revealed additional teeth, experts from th…
Readers’ Choice: Cast Your Votes for Long Island's Best! Readers’ Choice: Cast Your Votes for Long Island's Best!
Readers’ Choice: Cast Your Votes for Long Island's Best! Long Island, it’s time to show some love for your favorite local businesses! Daily Voice has officially launched the voting phase of its inaugural Readers’ Choice competition, and the power is in your hands to crown the best of the best. Our readers submitted nominations earlier this fall, and now the top contenders are ready for your votes. With over 80 categories spanning six major groups, this is your chance to celebrate the local gems that make Long Island a vibrant place to live, work, and play. From the tastiest eats to top-notch services, your vote can help highlight the businesses y…
Winning Numbers For Wednesday, Dec. 18 Powerball Drawing With Estimated $71M Jackpot Winning Numbers For Wednesday, Dec. 18 Powerball Drawing With Estimated $71M Jackpot
Winning Numbers For Wednesday, Dec. 18 Powerball Drawing With Estimated $71M Jackpot The winning numbers have been announced for the Wednesday, Dec. 18 Powerball drawing. The estimated jackpot is $71 million with a $33 million cash option. If no winner wins the top prize, the jackpot will continue to roll until the next drawing at 10:59 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 21. The winning numbers for Wednesday's drawing were 06-15-18-33-49 with a Powerball of 07 and the Power Play was 2X. Lottery players have a 1 in 292,201,338 chance of winning a Powerball jackpot by matching all five balls plus the Powerball, according to officials. Prizes then range from $1 millio…
Long Island Man Arrested After Firing Gun In Rockville Centre Parking Lot, Police Say Long Island Man Arrested After Firing Gun In Rockville Centre Parking Lot, Police Say
Long Island Man Arrested After Firing Gun In Rockville Centre Parking Lot, Police Say A report of gunfire led to the arrest of a Long Island man after officers discovered shell casings and recovered a handgun connected to the alleged incident. According to Nassau County Police detectives, the incident occurred on Tuesday, Dec. 17, at around  2:15 a.m. in the parking lot of a commercial business at 525 Merrick Road in Rockville Centre. Detectives said witnesses reported seeing a man remove a gun from his jacket pocket and fire it into the air before fleeing the scene. Responding officers recovered shell casings at the location, and no injuries were reported. …
Portable Potty Fire Sparks Mystery: Man Seen Fleeing In Flames (VIDEO) Portable Potty Fire Sparks Mystery: Man Seen Fleeing In Flames (VIDEO)
Portable Potty Fire Sparks Mystery: Man Seen Fleeing In Flames (Video) Levittown detectives are scratching their heads after a portable bathroom went up in flames early Saturday morning—followed by a man running from the scene, also on fire. The bizarre incident happened in front of a home at 119 Sprucewood Drive around 4:30 a.m. on December 14. Officers arrived to find a scorched portable bathroom parked on the front lawn, and witnesses reported spotting an unidentified man fleeing eastbound down Sprucewood Drive, running like a stuntman in an action movie, literally in flames. Detectives are unsure if the fiery fugitive was an unlucky bystander or somehow …
Pedestrian Killed On Long Island After Being Struck By Car: Police Pedestrian Killed On Long Island After Being Struck By Car: Police
Pedestrian Killed On Long Island After Being Struck By Car: Police A 73-year-old woman has died after being hit by a car while crossing a busy Long Island roadway. According to the Nassau County Police Department's Homicide Squad, the crash occurred on Tuesday, Dec. 17, at 5 p.m. on North Main Street in Freeport. Detectives said an 89-year-old man was driving a 2014 Lincoln southbound in the left lane of North Main Street near Stevens Street when he struck the woman as she was crossing the road eastbound. The pedestrian was rushed to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead by hospital staff. The driver of the vehicle sustained minor injurie…
Long Island Man Arrested After Probation Visit Uncovers Drugs, Loaded Gun: Police Long Island Man Arrested After Probation Visit Uncovers Drugs, Loaded Gun: Police
Long Island Man Arrested After Probation Visit Uncovers Drugs, Loaded Gun: Police A probation visit turned into a significant arrest when police found drugs, cash, and a loaded handgun at a Long Island home. According to Nassau County Police, the incident occurred on Tuesday, Dec. 17, at 8 p.m., when officers were assisting Nassau County Probation with a visit to an East Meadow residence and discovered Benjamin Ramirez Munoz, age 22, of Westbury, living there illegally and violating the terms of his probation. A further investigation revealed cocaine, heroin, cash, and a loaded .38 caliber handgun inside the home, police said. Munoz was arrested without incident.  …
First Severe Bird Flu Case Confirmed In US First Severe Bird Flu Case Confirmed In US
First Severe Bird Flu Case Confirmed In US Health officials have confirmed the first severe case of H5N1 bird flu in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) made the announcement on Wednesday, Dec. 18 saying the infection was diagnosed on Friday, Dec. 13, following contact the patient made with sick and dead birds from a backyard flock. The case was reported in Louisiana and marks the first H5N1 case in the US linked to exposure to backyard poultry.  Since April 2024, there have been a total of 61 reported human cases of H5 bird flu reported in the United States. H5 is generally less severe than…
Young Woman Jumps To Death From NY Viaduct, Motorist Heard Her Fall: MTA Young Woman Jumps To Death From NY Viaduct, Motorist Heard Her Fall: MTA
Young Woman Jumps To Death From NY Viaduct, Motorist Heard Her Fall: MTA A 24-year-old Hudson Valley woman jumped to her death from the Moodna Viaduct, which carries Metro-North Railroad's Port Jervis Line over the Moodna Creek early this week. Ryley S. Buononato, a resident of Amenia in Dutchess County, jumped around 2:45 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 16, according to an MTA spokesman. A motorist traveling on Otterville Road in Cornwall, where the viaduct is located, reported hearing an abnormal sound, the MTA said. The driver pulled the car over and found a white female near the roadway. The MTA Police were notified by local police and assumed the lead on the investig…
This Trendy Treat Is Rolling Into Spotlight As Sweet Complement To Christmas Cookies This Trendy Treat Is Rolling Into Spotlight As Sweet Complement To Christmas Cookies
This Trendy Treat Is Rolling Into Spotlight As Sweet Complement To Christmas Cookies Move over gingerbread and sugar cookies — sesame balls are quietly making their way onto holiday dessert tables this year.  Traditionally found in Chinese, Vietnamese, and other Asian cuisines, these golden, chewy orbs are earning a buzzworthy reputation as a standout complement to classic Christmas sweets. Known as Jian Dui in Chinese cuisine and Bánh Cam in Vietnamese culture, sesame balls are made from glutinous rice flour, stuffed with sweet fillings like red bean or lotus paste, and fried to perfection.  The result? A crispy exterior coated in toasted sesame seeds, with a sa…
Coastal Gem Named Best Small Town In US To Visit In New Rankings Coastal Gem Named Best Small Town In US To Visit In New Rankings
Coastal Gem Named Best Small Town In US To Visit In New Rankings A charming coastal town has been crowned the best small town to visit in the United States, earning the top spot in U.S. News & World Report’s newly released rankings. The annual list highlights destinations that capture the essence of small-town America with their scenic beauty, cultural offerings, and laid-back atmosphere. T his year, Bar Harbor, Maine, claimed the No. 1 position, praised for its idyllic setting, stunning coastal views, and gateway to Acadia National Park. Nestled along Maine’s rugged coastline, Bar Harbor attracts visitors year-round with its fresh seafood, boutique…
Winning Numbers For Tuesday, Dec. 17 'Mega Millions' Drawing With Estimated $760M Jackpot Winning Numbers For Tuesday, Dec. 17 'Mega Millions' Drawing With Estimated $760M Jackpot
Winning Numbers For Tuesday, Dec. 17 'Mega Millions' Drawing With Estimated $760M Jackpot The winning numbers have been announced for the Tuesday, Dec. 17 Mega Millions drawing. The estimated jackpot is $760 million with a $352.1 million cash option. The winning numbers for Tuesday's drawing are: 56-66-67-68-69 with a Mega Ball of 18 and a Megaplier of 4X If no winner wins the top prize, the jackpot will continue to roll until the next drawing at 10:59 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 20.  MegaMillions Lottery players have a 1 in 302,575,350 chance of winning a Mega Millions jackpot by matching all five balls plus the gold Mega Ball, according to…
Heads Up: Lane Closures Planned For Portion Of Long Island Expressway Heads Up: Lane Closures Planned For Portion Of Long Island Expressway
Heads Up: Lane Closures Planned For Portion Of Long Island Expressway Scheduled roadwork may slow you down this week. Both directions of the Long Island Expressway will undergo overnight lane closures in the towns of Brookhaven, Islip, and Smithtown, beginning Tuesday night, Dec. 17. In Brookhaven, the westbound left and HOV lanes of I-495 will close between exit 64 (State Route 112) and exit 62 (Nicholls Road) from 10 p.m. Tuesday until 5 a.m. the following morning, according to transportation officials. During that time, the eastbound HOV lane will also be closed between 63 (North Ocean Avenue and exit 64. Then on Wednesday, Dec. 18, the eastbound HOV, le…
Payback Time: NY Delivery Drivers Will Get Cut Of $4M Settlement Over Withheld Tips Payback Time: NY Delivery Drivers Will Get Cut Of $4M Settlement Over Withheld Tips
Payback Time: NY Delivery Drivers Will Get Cut Of $4M Settlement Over Withheld Tips Thousands of local delivery drivers are in for a much-deserved payday. Drizly, a now-defunct alcohol delivery platform, reached a $4 million settlement with the State of New York on Tuesday, Dec. 17, for failing to ensure that delivery workers received their rightful tips. According to New York Attorney General Leitita James, Drizly encouraged customers to tip delivery workers but sent the funds to liquor store owners instead. Store owners were responsible for distributing the tips, but in many cases, workers did not receive the money they earned. The investigation also revealed that Driz…
Lives Stolen: These Are 7 Names Behind Gilgo Beach Murder Indictment Lives Stolen: These Are 7 Names Behind Gilgo Beach Murder Indictment
Lives Stolen: These Are 7 Names Behind Gilgo Beach Murder Indictment As accused serial killer Rex Heuermann faces his seventh murder charge, the stories of his alleged victims – young women whose lives were tragically and violently cut short – offer a haunting reminder of the human toll behind the Gilgo Beach case. Here’s a closer look at the seven victims named in the indictment: Melissa Barthelemy, 24 Melissa Barthelemy Suffolk County Police Described by family as a talented hair stylist from the Bronx, she dreamed of opening her own salon. She was last seen alive on July 10, 2009, in her basement apartment on Underhill Avenue.  Barthelemy’s…
CEO Murder: Manhattan Grand Jury Indicts Luigi Mangione, Could Be Extradited To NY In Days CEO Murder: Manhattan Grand Jury Indicts Luigi Mangione, Could Be Extradited To NY In Days
CEO Murder: Manhattan Grand Jury Indicts Luigi Mangione, Could Be Extradited To NY In Days Luigi Mangione, the man accused of killing former UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, was indicted by a Manhattan grand jury on Tuesday, Dec. 17. Mangione is charged with one count of first-degree murder in furtherance of terrorism and two counts of second-degree murder. Mangione, a 26-year-old Maryland native, had fled New York City after the high-profile targeted assassination outside the New York Hilton in Manhattan on Wednesday, Dec. 4.  UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. UnitedHealthcare After a days-long manhunt, Mangione was apprehended at a McDonald's in Altoona, Pennsy…
Alert Issued For Missing Long Island Woman With Dementia Alert Issued For Missing Long Island Woman With Dementia
Alert Issued For Missing Long Island Woman With Dementia Authorities are asking for help in locating a missing vulnerable adult from Long Island. Brenda Simmons, 76, was last seen on Fulton Street in the village of Farmingdale at around 6 a.m. Monday, Dec. 16, according to Nassau County Police. Simmons, who suffers from dementia, was driving a gray 2009 Honda Accord with New York plates HDM-3912. She is 5-foot-1 and 145 pounds, with gray hair and brown eyes. Police said she may be in need of medical attention. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Nassau County Police Department at 516-573-7347 or call 911. Share this story by clicki…
NJ Escort IDd As 7th Victim Of Giglio Beach Serial Killer, Police Say NJ Escort IDd As 7th Victim Of Giglio Beach Serial Killer, Police Say
NJ Escort IDd As 7th Victim Of Giglio Beach Serial Killer, Police Say Accused Gilgo Beach serial killer Rex Heuermann was formally charged with murdering a seventh victim. Heuermann, 60, of Massapequa Park, was indicted for second-degree murder in the killing of Valerie Mack in Suffolk County Court on Tuesday morning, Dec. 17. Mack, a 24-year-old Wildwood, NJ woman was working as an escort when she disappeared in 2000. A group of hunters discovered her skeletal remains wrapped in a plastic bag in a wooded area of Manorville in November 2000. She had been decapitated, and both of her hands had been severed from her body, prosecutors said. Her right leg had a…
CEO Murder: Stunning Poll Shows Shift In Views Among Young Americans CEO Murder: Stunning Poll Shows Shift In Views Among Young Americans
CEO Murder: Stunning Poll Shows Shift In Views Among Young Americans A new national poll from Emerson College reveals a startling trend among young American voters: More respondents aged 18 to 29 believe the targeted assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was acceptable than those who do not. The poll highlights a sharp generational divergence on the issue. A total of 41 percent of voters aged 18-29 find the killer’s actions acceptable, 24 percent somewhat acceptable and 17 percent completely acceptable), while 40 percent find them unacceptable. Noting that 68 percent of voters overall reject the killer’s action, Spencer Kimball, executiv…
Iconic Waldorf Astoria To Reopen After Years-Long Makeover: Here’s When Iconic Waldorf Astoria To Reopen After Years-Long Makeover: Here’s When
Iconic Waldorf Astoria To Reopen After Years-Long Makeover: Here’s When An iconic New York hotel will soon be reopening after a years-long renovation. The Waldorf Astoria is on track to be up and running in the spring. It has been closed for renovation since February 2017. The hotel's online reservation system went live last week. An announcement on its website states, "We are opening Spring 2025 and are now accepting reservations for stays and groups beginning September 2025." Known for its Art Deco design and rich history, the Waldorf Astoria has been a symbol of luxury since its original opening in 1931. Over the decades, it has hosted countless celebriti…
Winning Numbers For Monday, Dec. 16 Powerball Drawing With Estimated $58M Jackpot Winning Numbers For Monday, Dec. 16 Powerball Drawing With Estimated $58M Jackpot
Winning Numbers For Monday, Dec. 16 Powerball Drawing With Estimated $58M Jackpot The winning numbers have been announced for the Monday, Dec. 16 Powerball drawing. The estimated jackpot is $58 million with a $27.1 million cash option after a player in New York recently won the jackpot and reset the prize pool.  If no winner claims the top prize, the jackpot will continue to roll until the next drawing at 10:59 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 18. The winning numbers for Monday's drawing were 09-30-33-57-61 with a Powerball of  17 and the Power Play was 2X. Lottery players have a 1 in 292,201,338 chance of winning a Powerball jackpot by matchi…
NY Baby Formula Suppliers Accused Of Price Gouging Agree To $675K Settlement NY Baby Formula Suppliers Accused Of Price Gouging Agree To $675K Settlement
NY Baby Formula Suppliers Accused Of Price Gouging Agree To $675K Settlement Thousands of cans of baby formula are being distributed to families in need across New York after a settlement was reached with two companies accused of illegal price gouging. New York Attorney General Letitia James announced on Monday, Dec. 18, that her office had secured $675,000 worth of baby formula from Marine Park Distribution Inc. and its affiliate, Formula Depot Inc., following an investigation into price gouging during the nationwide formula shortage in 2022. The companies allegedly raised formula prices by more than 60 percent in some cases, with costs doubling for certain product…
Carjackers Who Hit Delivery Driver With Baseball Bat Sought After Medford Attack (VIDEO) Carjackers Who Hit Delivery Driver With Baseball Bat Sought After Medford Attack (VIDEO)
Carjackers Who Hit Delivery Driver With Baseball Bat Sought After Medford Attack (Video) Police are seeking tips after a delivery driver was carjacked and assaulted on Long Island. The incident happened in Medford, in front of a home on Race Avenue near Watch Hill Avenue, at around 9:15 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 8. Suffolk County Police said the victim was sitting in his car when two men approached and pulled him out of the vehicle. They struck him with a baseball bat and stole his SUV. The vehicle was recovered a short time later. Police did not elaborate on the man’s injuries or condition. Detectives described the suspects as Black men, between 15 and 25 years old. One was capture…
LI Mom Credits ‘Thick Thighs' For Saving Life After Vicious Dog Attack Involving Daughter LI Mom Credits ‘Thick Thighs' For Saving Life After Vicious Dog Attack Involving Daughter
LI Mom Credits ‘Thick Thighs' For Saving Life After Vicious Dog Attack Involving Daughter Support is swelling for a Long Island mother and author who was seriously injured while saving her daughter from a vicious dog attack. Sarle Jeffries, of Massapequa, described the harrowing ordeal in a GoFundMe campaign. While traveling abroad with her daughters earlier this month, she said she was attacked by a Rottweiler as she shielded her youngest daughter, Veya, who was initially targeted by the dog. “She had to get one stitch after being punctured, but unfortunately, the dog got me and took a chunk out of my leg,” Jeffries wrote. The attack left her with gruesome injuries, including …
Santos Spills: Viral Milkshake Attack Was Planned Publicity Stunt, Ousted LI  Rep. Confesses Santos Spills: Viral Milkshake Attack Was Planned Publicity Stunt, Ousted LI  Rep. Confesses
Santos Spills: Viral Milkshake Attack Was Planned Publicity Stunt, Ousted LI Rep. Confesses Turns out this milkshake drama was all whipped up. A video appearing to show disgraced former New York congressman George Santos being doused in ice cream in Times Square went viral over the weekend. The clip, which had been viewed millions of times on X, shows the 36-year-old convicted felon being accosted by a man seemingly outraged that Santos has “the audacity to show his face.” Watch video of the incident below. After getting the ex-Long Island congressman’s attention, the man tosses a milkshake all over Santos' jacket and asks, “How do you like that?” “You are un-[expletive] believ…
Mysterious Drones Spotted Over Long Island Amid Growing Local, State Monitoring Efforts Mysterious Drones Spotted Over Long Island Amid Growing Local, State Monitoring Efforts
Mysterious Drones Spotted Over Long Island Amid Growing Local, State Monitoring Efforts Mysterious drones that have sparked concerns across New Jersey and New York in recent weeks have now been spotted over Long Island. Local town Facebook and Nextdoor groups were inundated with reported sightings of the so far unexplained aircraft over the weekend, including in Oyster Bay, Huntington Station, Seaford, Northport, West Babylon, and Smithtown. The drones, first reported in mid-November over New Jersey, have caused disruptions and rampant speculation across the region. Notably, operations at Stewart International Airport in New Windsor were halted for nearly an hour on Friday, De…
Victim Dies Days After Violent Carjacking In Deer Park; Suspects Still Outstanding Victim Dies Days After Violent Carjacking In Deer Park; Suspects Still Outstanding
Victim Dies Days After Violent Carjacking In Deer Park; Suspects Still Outstanding A 65-year-old man died days after a violent carjacking on Long Island. The incident happened on Brook Avenue in Deer Park at around 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11. Suffolk County Police said Donald Klune was sitting in a Mitsubishi vehicle when at least one person approached and pulled him out of the car. The suspect or suspects then punched and kicked the man before fleeing the scene in his vehicle. Klune, of Deer Park, was taken by ambulance to a hospital, where he died from his injuries on Friday, Dec. 13. No suspects had been arrested or publicly identified as of Monday, Dec. 16. Any…
Alert Issued For 15-Year-Old Long Island Boy Missing For 3 Days Alert Issued For 15-Year-Old Long Island Boy Missing For 3 Days
Alert Issued For 15-Year-Old Long Island Boy Missing For 3 Days Authorities are asking for help in locating a missing teenager from Long Island. Cheyne Shim, 15, was last seen near Sunrise Highway in Merrick at around 4:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, according to Nassau County Police. Shim is 5-foot-7 and 150 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a dark navy jacket and gray backpack. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Nassau County Police Department at 516-573-7347 or call 911. Share this story by clicking the Facebook icon below. Check back to Daily Voice for updates.
Amazon Dismissed Warnings On High Rates Of Worker Injuries, Report Says Amazon Dismissed Warnings On High Rates Of Worker Injuries, Report Says
Amazon Dismissed Warnings On High Rates Of Worker Injuries, Report Says ityAmazon is under fire following a US Senate report accusing the company of prioritizing speed over worker safety.  Released by the majority staff of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee late Sunday night, Dec. 15, the report claims Amazon’s intense focus on productivity has led to unsafe working conditions. The Senate report outlines how Amazon’s warehouse workers face high rates of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and other injuries caused by repetitive tasks and demanding quotas.  It accuses Amazon of knowingly exposing employees to these risks, …