🌱 Cousin Steals $500K In Lotto Prize + LIPA, PSEG Uneasy Deal

Hey, people of Merrick! I'm here with the latest Merrick Daily.

A Nassau man's cousin stole half of his $1 million lottery winnings. There are still 22,000 absentee ballots to count in the race for Nassau county executive. And LIPA says its new deal with PSEG LI means it can better hold the utility to performance metrics.

First, today's weather:

Some sun, then clouds. High: 60 Low: 57.

Here are the top stories today in Merrick:

1. Town of Hempstead Councilman Bruce Blakeman said he feels “very confident” that he will be named Nassau’s next county executive with a lead of almost 12,000 votes over incumbent Laura Curran. There remain over 22,000 absentee ballots to be counted. (The Island Now)
2. The Daily Voice explains that a Texas woman was arrested and charged on Tuesday with stealing more than $500,000 in lottery money from her cousin. Iris Amador Argueta, 32, claimed the $1 million prize for her relative from a “Hold ‘Em Poker” scratcher bought at 7-Eleven in Glen Cove but then lied to him about its value. (Daily Voice)
3. Jerry Barmash tells us that LIPA and PSEG Long Island agreed to a new four-year contract. PSEG Long Island was severely criticized for its preparation and aftermath of Tropical Storm Isaias in August 2020. LIPA says the deal will allow them to hold PSEG to performance targets. (Patch)

Today's Merrick Daily is brought to you by Newrez, a leading nationwide mortgage lender. Planning to buy or refinance a home? Here's what you need to know about the five types of mortgage loans (and which one is right for you). Make a smart move for your future and refinance with Newrez. Call 844-979-1707 to connect with a Newrez loan officer. Newrez, LLC (NMLS #3013)

Merrick Patch Notebook

• Nassau County Police Department's 5th Precinct officers responded to a 911 call for a dog on the loose. They found the pup in front of Valley Stream Fire Department’s Engine 3 and got him safely to the Hempstead Town animal shelter. (Facebook)

From our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Featured businesses:

• Add your business here

Events:

• Great Food, Great Drinks, Great Music (November 11)
• "The Kosher Capones" Book & Author with Joe Kraus (November 11)
• Celebrate Your Favorite Veteran With Patriotic Flowers (November 11)
• Thanksgiving Curbside Food Drive (November 13)
• "Unstoppable" Book & Author with Joshua M. Greene (November 14)
• Add your event

Other classifieds:

• Help Wanted (Details)
• Behind The Scoreboard — Coach Helps Hockey Player Excel (Details)
• Add your classified

You're all caught up for today! I'll be back in your inbox tomorrow with a new update. If you're enjoying these newsletters, consider inviting some of your friends and neighbors to read along. You can send them this link to subscribe.

— Jackie

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Merrick Daily? Reach out anytime to Merrick@Patch.com.