Nassau Herald 01-01-2026 by Richner Communications, Inc

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HERALD Former Lawrence mayor dies at 100

Family concert for Hanukkah

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A bat mitzvah, 63 years later Pnina Knopf fulfills her lifelong dream and honors Israel connection Dec. 20, the day before her 75th birthday. She had searched for a deepIn Judaism, it is a rite of er connection to Judaism after passage for a girl to become a the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attacks bat mitzvah — an adult in the in Israel. “After Oct. 7 I was diseyes of God — at age 12. Pnina traught,” she recounted. “I Knopf became one 63 years have 40-plus relatives living there, and I was terrified for later, at 75. my family. I did not As a girl takes belong to a temple, her place in the and after the war Jewish community, broke out, I felt a it is celebrated with need for a commucreative projects, nity of people who parties and other understood me and gatherings. Most believed in what I important, the girl did.” prepares for months Her journey for a special bat began when she met mitzvah service. the Jewish Centre’s Knopf, of East executive director, Rockaway, the mothLisa Stein, and then er of three grown PNINA KNoPF Rabbi Michael children, a grand- Member, Schlesinger, on Nov. mother of three and Hewlett-East 3, 2023. a member of the Rockaway Jewish “Lisa was my Hewlett-East Rocka- Centre first liaison to way Jewish Centre, HERJC,” Knopf has wanted to become a bat mitzvah her said. “It was really a retuning entire life. “I’ve been counting home, because my children down the years my whole life, went to HERJC when they were since I was 12 years old,” she 3 and 4 years old. We were said. “Growing up in the 1950s members until my daughter and ’60s, in a conservative Jew- was in fourth grade.” After her meeting with ish family, only male children Schlesinger, Knopf was invited had a bar mitzvah.” Knopf fulfilled her dream on ContinuED on pagE 7

By MELISSA BERMAN

mberman@liherald.com

Aidan Warshavsky/Herald

Zeenea Victoria, left, was one of many who attended Dr. Jacqueline Maricheau’s community event at St. John's Episcopal Hospital.

Community ‘Baby Shower’ brings joy, and resources By AIDAN WARSHAVSKY awarshavsky@liherald.com

Dozens of expectant mothers gathered at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital, in Far Rockaway, on Dec. 19 for Episcopal Health Services’ annual Baby Shower, an event that blended festive holiday spirit with practical parenting support. Hosted by Dr. Jacqueline Maricheau, the hospital’s chair of obstetrics and gynecology, the event was intended to lift families’ spirits during the holiday season with gifts, guidance and community. In partnership with organizations like Campaign Against Hunger; Love, Nana; and the Queens Public

Library, the hospital offered a pop-up shop stocked with books and clothing for newborns, along with a raffle that awarded baby-changing bags, car seats, playpens and strollers. The event featured refreshments, music and an educational segment led by Debbie Steger-Cohen, a lactation consultant specialist who addressed the long-term health benefits of breastfeeding and detailed the challenges that new mothers may face during childbirth. “Breastfeeding provides babies with the necessary nutrients, proteins, sugars, antibodies, fats and vitamins to build immunity ContinuED on pagE 9

’ve been counting down the years my whole life since I was 12 years old.

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January 1, 2026 — NASSAU HERALD

Courtesy Gerard Petrocelli

Hewlett Elementary School Student Council members participated in the 22nd annual Trees for Troops event at Dee’s Nursery.

HES participates in 22nd Trees for troops HALB Middle School spelling bee winners Elana Hersh, third place, left, Shira

Courtesy Tanya Dagan

cipal Heather Sosnovsky, Student Council advisers Mrs. Maltz and Mrs. Hargreaves, members of the Hewlett-Woodmere School District administrative team and Board of Education members, who supported the students throughout the event. School officials said they were proud of the Student Council members for helping spread holiday cheer to troops serving overseas. — Melissa Berman

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Grossman, second place and first place winner Chaim Doman.

HALB celebrates spelling bee winners The Hebrew Academy of Long Beach Middle School Spelling Bee brought together top spellers from the sixth, seventh and eighth grades following qualifying rounds in each grade. Students competed against one another in the final round of the Middle School bee. Winners were Chaim Doman, first place; Shira Grossman, second place; and Elana Hersh, third place. Mrs. Bernstein’s art classes partnered with Chessed 24/7 in recognition of Chanukah. Students wrote and decorated cards that will be delivered along with Chanukah gifts that Chessed 24/7 is bringing to children in the hospital. As part of their preparation for Names, Not Numbers, eighth-grade students at HALB visited the Museum of Jewish Heritage: A Living Memorial to the Holocaust. Museum educators led six groups of students on 90-minute private guided tours of The Holocaust: What Hate Can Do exhibit. HALB’s middle school robotics team competed in the CIJE Robotics Tournament. In the weeks leading up to the competition, students spent time after school

building robots to complete the VEX Robotics challenge. Their efforts culminated in learning to drive the robots and competing after months of preparation. Chanukah week was celebrated at HALB and Lev Chana with activities for staff and faculty. Teachers and staff were treated to a lunch at both schools, providing an opportunity to spend time together and enjoy the workday. At Lev Chana and HALB, teachers also participated in doughnut-making activities, and the Chagigas were held during the week. Congratulations were extended to the winners of the Menorah Contest, with organizers noting the strong participation and creativity displayed. Lev Chana continued its Chanukah workshops, during which parents joined their children for singing and special Chanukah-themed activities. On the Friday before Chanukah, HALB’s third-grade girls performed a Chanukah play for the Lower School girls. The performance was both informative and entertaining, helping set the tone for the holiday. — Melissa Berman

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Hewlett Elementary School Student Council members participated in the 22nd annual Trees for Troops event at Dee’s Nursery. Students wrote letters to soldiers serving overseas and helped decorate and load trees that were later transported with a police escort to JFK Airport for shipment abroad. The event was made possible through a partnership between Dee’s Nursery and DHL. In attendance were HES Prin-

County Legislators pass Religious Safety Act unanimously By AIDAN WARSHAVSKY Nassau County legislators have approved a bill that would add protection for worshippers at religious institutions. The bill, formally known as the “Religious Safety Act,” was passed unanimously by the Nassau County Legislature and awaits signature by County Executive Bruce Blakeman. It 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 during the hour before a scheduled service and the hour after it ends. New York State Assemblyman Ari Brown, whose district encompasses the Five Towns, praised Blakeman for backing the bill’s creation, saying he was “right to lead on it.” “This measure does not silence anyone,” he said. “It simply says you don’t get to target families, children, or religious communities at their most vulnerable. In the Five Towns, where antisemitism is not abstract or academic, that protection matters.” Efforts to pass the bill are part of a greater conversation on balancing rights to free speech with someone’s right to religious freedom and safety. Under the law, authorities must warn protesters before taking enforcement action. Steven Saks, the rabbi at Congregation

Herald File Photo

Nassau County aims to maintain balance between peaceful protest and religious freedom. Sons of Israel, spoke on the importance of preserving safety of worshippers. “People of all religions should be able to gather in practice and safety,” he said. Tensions are high among the Jewish community in light of recent events: In June, police responded to a report of a large banner reading “50,000 Dead Gazan Kids” hanging on the fence of the Israel Chesed Center on Peninsula Boulevard.

And the recent antisemitic attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia on Dec. 14, which claimed the lives of 15 people attending a Hanukkah celebration, sparked sermons from rabbis globally— Saks included. “Terrorism is not only an attempt to hurt people, but gives fear of congregation,” he said. “As long as people are engaged in peaceful practice of religion, it’s important that they are protected.”

NetCost Market opens first Long Island location in Hewlett By AIDAN WARSHAVSKY awarshavsky@liherald.com

NetCost Market opened its first Long Island location Dec. 16 in Hewlett. The local grocery store, located at 1296 Broadway, features a wide assortment of American goods, as well as Eastern European delicacies like Zapekanka, Syrniki, Cheburek, Heart and Tongue. It also sells items from Belgian chocolates and Baltic spreads, to fresh caviar and varieties of smoked fish. “I’ve always believed that two things unite people in culture: language and the food that we eat,” Chief Executive Officer Eduard Shnayder said. “We try to bring traditions to people’s homes and the neighborhoods.” Part of supporting traditions also involves providing alternative healthy options for meals, including healthier condiments like mayonnaise, and meat selections like rabbit legs and duck breast. “Customers are not as conservative as they were 30 years ago,” Shnayder said in reference to providing alternatives to major brands. “Health is important.” In an effort to determine community need, NetCost conducted a demographic study. They mapped out the United States to find pockets of Eastern European origins. One of the company’s pri-

Aidan Warshavsky / Herald Photos

The new grocery store features a large sales counter, as well as aisles from fresh produce, to kosher brands. orities will be getting to know the desires of the community, and becoming a family-friendly store. “We want to be a significant part of the community,” Vice President of Marketing Yana Mosina said. “We have strong roots in European cuisine, which makes us a match for what we can offer your community and your needs.”

Despite becoming neighbors with Trader Joe’s, Shnayder explained that the competition would be about selfimprovement, not necessarily about being better than its counterpart. “We love the competition, but we focus on what we do and how to follow the signs of demand,” he said. “We want to get better every day and be better than us, not somebody else.”

Part of that daily improvement requires the assembly of a team: Angelina Khristichenko, the executive vice president for NetCost, oversees the construction of the 40-person staff at the Hewlett location, as well as others. “My job starts with the empty box.” She said. “I need to fill it by finding people passionate about food, and give them the training to be successful while upholding the values of our company.” Trainees undergo comprehensive training through both hands-on experience and virtual interactions geared toward customer service and understanding their roles. NetCost’s culture values treating employees like family, fostering a positive work environment to maintain high employee morale and satisfaction. “We try to build a team and surround them with like-minded people who want to work,” Khristichenko said. Shnayder explained that NetCost’s long-term goal is to provide families with a diverse local grocery experience. “Our store is a discovery. You are traveling the world in 14,000 square feet,” Shnayder claimed. “We want to be good, provide quality service, and a great experience for our customers. That’s important to us.”

NASSAU HERALD — January 1, 2026

awarshavsky@liherald.com

Legislators led by Mazi Pilip, who represents Great Neck, were motivated to act after a large protest outside Manhattan’s Park East Synagogue last month. Attendees were victims of derogatory remarks like “Zionism is a death cult” and “Death to the IDF,” with some protestors attempting to force their way inside. Blakeman, who strongly supports the bill, stated that protests that threaten public safety will not stand in the community. “Religious freedom is guaranteed under the Constitution of the United States,” he said. “Whether it’s a synagogue, church, temple, or mosque, Nassau County will not tolerate interference with people’s right to observe their religious worship. Rabbi Ya’akov Trump of Young Israel of Lawrence-Cedarhurst said he applauds Nassau County’s courage to stand up to protect the safety of those who wish to use religious institutions. “Our synagogue has twice been targeted by pro-Hamas bigots who threatened our community,” Trump said. “No religious community should be allowed to be targeted like this.” He said the laws help protect the freedom of worship and freedom of expression in every community. “Nassau County has distinguished itself from NYC by choosing to protect Jewish houses of worship from masked protesters who seek to intimidate and delegitimize Jews,” he said.

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EHS marks first Nurse Residency cohort

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Email your resume to jnegrin@liherald.com

Courtesy Episcopal Health Services

Graduates of Episcopal Health Services inaugural Nurse Residency Program with program leaders seated, Natalie Brown, resident training RN, N’kechi I. Oliver, nurse manager/coordinator, nursing professional development, Keisha-Ann Wisdom, senior vice president of patient services and chief nursing officer, Denise Potts, assistant vice president of nursing professional practice, and Dionne DeFlorimonte, resident training RN.

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Episcopal Health Services marked the completion of the first cohort of its Nurse Residency Program, a yearlong transitionto-practice initiative that achieved a 90 percent retention rate among participating nurses. The program was created to support newly licensed nurses early in their careers and is structured as an accredited transition-to-practice model. It is supported through the New York City Nursing Project in partnership with Vizient and reflects EHS’ broader effort to strengthen the nursing workforce through evidence-based practice and leadership alignment. As part of the curriculum, nurse residents completed four evidence-based projects focused on reducing blood collection errors, improving identification of patient deterioration, preventing hospital-acquired infections related to indwelling Foley catheters, and enhancing the medication administration process by minimizing interruptions. “We see the Nurse Residency Program as a catalyst for the next chapter of nursing at EHS,” Dr. Donald Morrish, EHS’s CEO said in a news release. “By nurturing new talent and elevating the practice environment, we are laying the groundwork for long-term transformation in how we care for our patients and support our teams.” Executive leadership prioritized resourc__________________

es to support nurses at the point of care, including the placement of dedicated, unitbased nurse educators who provide mentorship and clinical guidance within each care setting. “Retention is a reflection of support,” Keisha-Ann Wisdom, senior vice president of patient services and chief nursing officer at EHS, said in the release. “When leadership invests in dedicated educators and creates space for learning at the bedside, nurses are better prepared, more confident, and more likely to build their careers here.” Denise Potts, assistant vice president of nursing professional development and practice at EHS, said the program reinforces the importance of structured support for new nurses. As the cohort concludes the program, EHS officials said the results highlight the impact of organizational commitment to workforce development, patient safety and quality care. The Nurse Residency Program remains a central component of EHS’ nursing strategy, emphasizing learning, collaboration and professional growth. Nursing students and new graduates interested in future participation in the Nurse Residency Program are encouraged to complete an interest form at Tiny URL. com/EHSNRPInterest. — Melissa Berman NASSAU _________________

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Hofstra wrestling builds championship culture By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com

Jamie Franco achieved some championship success in his first season as Hofstra wrestling head coach and is looking for more this winter. Hofstra captured two individual EIWA titles in March from graduate students Kyle Mosher and Ross McFarland while placing seventh as a team for the program’s best finish since 2021. Franco, a three-time NCAA Championship qualifier at Hofstra, is looking to build off of those titles with a younger team and see more wrestlers reach the top of the podium when the Pride compete at the 2026 EIWA finals at American University in Washington, D.C. “We are hoping that the success we had last year is going to help pave the way for some of the younger guys and show them that guys on our team can win titles and why not them,” said Franco, who was a Hofstra assistant coach from 2016 to 2023 and spent one season on the Columbia staff before leading his alma mater on the mats. Franco named four captains to try and instill a championship culture: Ryan Arbeit, Jurius Clark, Chase Liardi, and Jake Slotnick. Clark, a redshirt sophomore from Blakewood, N.J, recorded a 4-2 decision at 174 pounds in Hofstra’s 21-15 EIWA win at Sacred Heart on Nov. 13. He captured 13 matches last season and placed seventh at the EIWA Championships at 157 pounds. Slotnick, also a redshirt sophomore, finished in eighth place at 165 pounds in the 2025 Keystone Classic at Penn in Philadelphia on Nov. 23. The Williamstown, N.J. registered an 8-6 victory against 26th-ranked wrestler Cesar Alvan of Columbia on Nov. 16. Liardi, a graduate student from Massapequa, brings veteran leadership after winning 12 matches last season as a captain. Arbeit, a redshirt sophomore from Wantagh who won a Nassau County title in 2022, captured the 133-pound

Will Conlon, right, had one of Hofsta’s wins against powerful Penn. weight class at the New York State Championships as an unattached entrant last year. “We let the team pick their captains and then all the coaches get a vote as well so those four guys really represent what we’re looking for in our student athletes,” Franco said. “We push on our guys that it’s not just about winning wrestling matches but is also about winning in the classroom and winning in the community.” Redshirt sophomore Frank Volpe is showing promise early in the season placing third at 157 pounds at the Princeton Open on Nov. 3. He also picked up one of two Hofstra wins in a 31-6 loss at Columbia with a 2-0 decision against

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Jake Slotnick, left, is one of the Pride’s four captains. Charles Scanlan at 157. The Pride have tackled a grueling schedule to open the season which included a 35-8 loss to then 23rd-ranked Penn on Nov. 22 with Matt Waddell and Will Conlon recording wins against the Ivy League power. Conlon, a junior from Alabama, posted a 6-1 decision against Penn’s Martin Cosgrove at 197 pounds. Waddell, a redshirt sophomore from Georgia, won by technical fall at 184 pounds versus Xander Kuokkanen. Hofstra will host local EIWA rival

Long Island University on Feb. 9 at 7 p.m. before hosting both Harvard and Brown in two matches on Feb. 15 starting at 1 p.m. The Pride’s last home dual match is scheduled for Feb. 18 at 6 p.m. against Big Ten opponent Rutgers, who was ranked 17th in the nation in late December. “We hope the Long Island community keeps coming out and supporting us,” said Franco. “We hope we can get a good crowd for those guys and watch some great Division I wrestling.”

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Pnina Knopf, a member of the Hewletteast rockaway Jewish Centre and an east rockaway resident, became a bat mitzvah at age 75, on dec. 20. ated,” Knopf said of the program, an affiliate of Mount Sinai South Nassau hospital. “SIBSPlace has always remained close to my heart. The goal of my mitzvah project is to bring awareness of SIBSPlace to the HERJC congregation, the community and my family and friends.” Although Stein has known Knopf for only two years, they had an immediate connection when it came to their desire to support Israel and the Jewish community. “We are so happy to have her here,” Stein said. “She is such a positive, warm, dedicated person. She’s brought so much to our community by using her voice to make connections.”

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to attend services, and she became a member in January 2024. “I felt I had found my spiritual home, and I found my community,” she added. “I found people who felt the way I felt, and I made new friends. I felt like this is where I belong.” In November 2024, she approached Hazzan Bonnie Zakarin, the temple’s cantor, about becoming a bat mitzvah. She studied with Zakarin for over a year by learning how to read Torah and special prayers. Each week she learned a new line from her Torah portion and prayers to lead the bat mitzvah service. “Pnina is a beautiful soul and amazing volunteer in our community,” Zakarin said. “When she came to me and said she wanted to become a bat mitzvah, I was super excited for her. I wanted to support her and challenge her to do more than what was in her comfort zone.” During the service last month, Knopf read two Torah portions, one from Miketz, in the book of Genesis, and the Maftir portion of a special Hanukkah reading — because her bat mitzvah took place during Hanukkah. Zakarin said her favorite part of working with Knopf was her caring attitude and building a closer relationship with her. “I consider her like family,” Zakarin said, “and she’s been such a big part of my life this past year.” For her mitzvah project, a good deed that involves volunteering or donating, Knopf partnered with SIBSPlace, a support program for children with siblings or parents who have cancer or other devastating medical diagnoses, or children who are coping with the death of a family member. “I started volunteering with SIBSPlace in 2001, one year after it was cre-

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Pnina Knopf, bottom left, surrounded by family on her bat mitzvah, which she began looking into in November 2024.

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OBITUARIes

Former Lawrence Mayor Martin Rosen dies at 100 By MELISSA BERMAN mberman@liherald.com

Martin Rosen, former Village of Lawrence mayor, died on Dec. 13. He was 100. He died peacefully, according to his son-in-law Larry Cohen. Rosen was born on Sept. 3, 1925 in the Bronx and served in the U.S. Army as a combat engineer during World War II. After serving he graduated from The City College of New York and New York University School of Law where he received both a J.D. and an LL.M. in taxation. He founded the firm Rosen & Reade and later became a trusts and estates partner at Dentons, where he remained a partner until he was 95. “He had a very full and accomplished life,” Cohen said. In 1965, he met Simon Weisenthal, an Austrian Holocaust survivor and Nazi hunter. Rosen served as his advisor, consultant and pro-bono lawyer and helped form the Simon Weisenthal Center in Los Angeles, California. In 1979, he played a critical role in a successful mission to West Germany to abolish the statute of limitations on Nazi war crimes. “This was a really important step because otherwise the Nazi’s could be free from prosecution,” Cohen said. With his wife, Joan, he led the UJA Federation of New York campaign in the Five Towns for 50 years and raised over $1 billion for the organization. He has served as chairman of the South Shore Executive Committee and on the organization’s Board of Directors.

“As Mayor of the Village of Lawrence, Martin Rosen led with integrity, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to the public good,” Village of Lawrence Mayor Samuel Nahmias wrote in a statement. “Beyond Lawrence, his impact was felt nationally and internationally. The Village of Lawrence is forever grateful for his leadership and his example.” Rosen was very involved with Temple Beth Shalom in Lawrence and the Seawane Club in Hewlett Harbor. He served as the Mayor of Lawrence from 1976 to 1980. “He was the most exceptional human being,” said Jacqueline Handel, longtime Lawrence resident. “Whatever he was interested in, he gave his full self to. He was the most beloved and respected person.” At 97, he authored his memoir, “God Bless America: I Had a Great Run”. “I was very privileged and fortunate to be his sonin-law for 46 years,” Cohen added. “He was a remarkable man and had the greatest impact on my life, my family’s lives and he’s someone that touched everybody. He lived one of the most impactful loves of anyone I’ve ever known.” He is survived by his wife, Joan; his daughters Ilene Cohen (Larry), Lynn Karkus (Ted), and his sonin-law Steven Stern. Along with his grandchildren Bari Klein (David), Kerri Saperstein (Eytan), Andrew Cohen (Liza), Michael Stern (Gwen), Corey Stern, Jason Karkus, Samantha Stern, Brett Karkus; and nine great-grandchildren. His daughter Nancy Stern predeceases him. A funeral was held at Boulevard-Riverside Chapels in Hewlett on Dec. 16. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to the Marion & Aaron Gural JCC, UJA Federation of New York and the Simon Weisenthal Center.

Courtesy Larry Cohen

Martin Rosen, left, with his wife, Joan, in an undated photo. He died at 100, on Dec. 13.

Arthur Carter, publishing executive dies at 93 By MELISSA BERMAN mberman@liherald.com

Arthur L. Carter, a Wall Street investment banker who went on to become a newspaper and magazine publisher, most notably as the founder of the New York Observer died, on Dec. 7. He was 93. He died in a hospital in Manhattan. Carter grew up in Woodmere, where his early life was shaped by a strong emphasis on education and culture. As a young man, he studied piano at the Juilliard School and initially aspired to become a concert pianist. He later abandoned that path, concluding that classical music would not provide the financial stability he needed as a newly married husband and father. He moved to East Rockaway to raise his growing family with his wife Linda. He pivoted to finance — a decision that proved transformative. In the 1960s, Carter partnered with his next-door neighbor, Sanford I. Weill, who would later become the head of Citigroup. Together, they were early pioneers of the leveraged buyout, borrowing money to acquire companies using their own assets and cash flow as collateral. Despite his success on Wall Street, Carter sought pursuits that combined intellectual engagement and public purpose.

Courtesy Wikipedia

Woodmere native Arthur Carter, founder of the New York Observer died on Dec. 7 at 93. In 1981, he founded The Litchfield County Times, a weekly newspaper covering northwestern Connecticut, where he owned a 1,400-acre dairy farm. Over the next two decades, the paper grew to several thousand subscribers, won

awards for general excellence for its size and developed a reputation for rigorous reporting and elegant design. Carter later sold the paper, along with several local lifestyle publications he founded, to the Journal Register Company.

Seeking a larger platform, he acquired a majority stake in The Nation in 1985, saying the magazine had helped shape his largely liberal outlook, including on economic issues. Two years later, in 1987, he founded The New York Observer, which became a distinctive voice in New York’s political, media and cultural life. Carter joined Hearst in the late 1970s and rose steadily through the organization, becoming chairman and chief executive officer of Hearst Magazines in 1989. During his nearly two decades at the helm, Hearst expanded its global reach and strengthened its portfolio of iconic publications while navigating an evolving media landscape. He stepped down as CEO in 2008 but remained active as a senior adviser and board member. Colleagues remembered him as a thoughtful leader who valued editorial independence, long-term strategy and mentorship. Later in life, after stepping back from publishing, Mr. Carter pursued sculpture, embracing an artistic discipline he had set aside decades earlier. Mr. Carter later lived in East Rockaway, where he raised his family and maintained close ties to Long Island. His wife, Linda, survives him with his children Jon, Whendy, Ginna, Mary and his stepdaughter Ali Marsh. Along with his sister Ellen Carter Weisenthal.

St. John’s is recognized as ‘Baby-Friendly’ and be healthy,” Steger-Cohen told the attendees. She also spoke about St. John’s’ recent “BabyFriendly” designation — recognition from BabyFriendly USA, the accrediting body for the international Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative in the United States, which highlights hospitals that support breastfeeding and newborn care. The evaluation included patient interviews, staff training verification and a demonstration of formula purchasing policies. In July, St. John’s passed all 82 criteria. Steger-Cohen explained that the designation means that the hospital fulfills the needs of expecting mothers at “the very highest level.” “It means that moms are assured by an independent organization that they are getting the very best maternal child care,” she said. “Everyone who takes care of them is knowledgeable about breastfeeding. We are able to support whatever decision they have in terms of feeding their baby. Even if they’re formula feeding, we will make sure that they’re doing a wonderful job at formula feeding their baby.” While the event was a first-time experience for some, it wasn’t for others, like Jailynn Vega, of Far Rockaway, who is expecting her third child. Vega, a clerk in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit, said she was grateful for the chance to attend. “It’s supportive to know there’s other young moms out there,” she said. “Most of what we just learned today, with lactation and everything. Some things I even forgot.” Vega also noted the importance of attending as a health care provider, and as someone who can support another mother. “Even if you’re not a mom, at least know the information,” she said. “I would want my child just being born to be treated as if you were the

mom. I want to make sure that information is with me so that I can provide that same loving care for others.” She highlighted St. John’s’ attention to detail as both colleagues and health care professionals. “When I went on maternity leave when I had my second child, everyone asked how my baby was doing,” she said. “They take care of their patients. That’s what I want.” Maricheau hosted the shower as a way to aid families in need to offset the costs of having a child, especially during the holiday season. “It’s my favorite time of year,” she said. “We’re happy to donate, help and support.” And for mothers like Vega, that support means everything. “Items like diapers can be expensive,” she said. “I struggle a lot, having two other kids. Its great to know that there’s available help.” Maricheau, who has worked at the hospital for six years, called helping women as a health care provider her “impetus.” “Knowing that I can make a difference, and I can make change in the community, seeing the smiles on their faces,” she said, “[are] why I love taking care of women.” She thanked the partners for their efforts, and applauded her department and Episcopal Health Services’ CEO, Dr. Donald T. Morrish, for “rising to the occasion.” Steger-Cohen reiterated the hospital’s commitment to ensuring optimal care for expecting mothers, explaining that its efforts go beyond prenatal and inpatient care. “We will support their feeding plans and help them have a rewarding and wonderful experience after birth,” she said. “When you leave, you’re still within our umbrella of support.”

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Mendel Hecht, left, Mendel Yaras, Joey Newcomb, Moshe Turk and Shua Slavin at the Chabad of the Five Towns Hanukkah concert.

Lighting up the Five Towns with music A festive Chanukah drive-in concert at North Woodmere Park brought an evening of music, dancing, and Jewish pride. Organized by Chabad of the Five Towns, the event drew more than 400 cars and close to 2,000 community members, on Dec. 17. Families enjoyed the unique drive-in format featuring a lively concert by popular Jewish music artist Joey Newcomb. As music filled the park, attendees stepped out of their cars to dance with Judah the Maccabee and spirited dancing dreidels, creating an uplifting and family-friendly celebration. Rabbi Zalman Wolowik said that the drive-in concert was part of a broad Chanukah initiative across the Five Towns. Together with Rabbi Meir Geisinsky and Hadassah Geisinsky, Chabad of the Five Towns hosted more than 20 Chanukah programs, including lively family celebrations, public menorah lightings, youth events, senior gatherings, and personal Chanukah visits to homebound community members. “This Chanukah carried special meaning,” Wolowik said. “Following the recent terrorist attack in Sydney, we wanted to respond by adding light. We are strengthening unity, visibility, and positive Jewish life throughout the Five Towns.” — Melissa Berman

Zevi, left, with his mom Nhadssa Schwart, with Arielle Blau and her mother Arielle Blau at the family-friendly concert.

Leora Mase, middle left, Rose Lieberman, Sammy Mase, front and Rochel Lichtman braved the cold at North Woodmere Park.

Rabbi Zalman Wolowik, of the Chabad of the Five Towns addressed the concert attendees before lighting the menorah for the fourth night.

Joey Newcomb was the lead vocalist and serenaded the crowd with classic Hanukkah and Jewish songs, on Dec. 17.

Northwell warns of winter ‘tripledemic’ jdalessandro@liherald.com

A “tripledemic” — influenza, Covid19 and the respiratory syncytial virus — is at the heart of Northwell Health’s battle against contagious disease this winter. According to Northwell’s team of doctors, researchers and other medical professionals, Long Island is facing a challenging flu season: While the number of flu cases increases dramatically every week, the rate of hospitalizations jumped 75 percent in a single week, between Thanksgiving and Dec. 5. The outbreak has created a surge in emergency department and urgent care visits throughout the region. “Northwell typically runs about 2,800 to 3,000 patients in our hospital beds,” its president and CEO, John D’Angelo, said at a news conference on Dec. 18. Currently Northwell has 3,500 patients, about 10 percent of whom are suffering from the flu. While Northwell’s surge planning helps it handle the larger volume of patients, D’Angelo warned that flu season was far from over. “We haven’t plateaued yet — we haven’t seen a bump,” he said. “We’re still on kind of that rapid-ascent part of the curve, and we have to see where it goes.” Bruce Farber, Northwell’s chief public health and epidemiology officer, said

Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald

Northwell Health’s Annemarie Stroustrup, Bruce Farber, President and CEO John D’Angelo and Dwayne Breining shared their advice on staying safe during flu season. he focuses on ways to keep people out of the hospital. Regarding this year’s flu vaccine, Farber said, “It is very good at preventing hospitalizations and deaths.” Farber anticipates 25,000 flu deaths this year, exceeding those related to Covid, with a higher concentration of pediatric and senior deaths. Though this year’s flu cannot stop the transmission of the disease, it can effectively reduce its severity. “I’ve not seen a death in somebody who’s been vaccinated, and I have seen plenty of deaths in people who have not been vaccinated,”

Farber said. “I strongly encourage everybody to get the vaccine.” The Northwell team’s other advice for members of the public is to use common-sense strategies in addition to vaccination to avoid spreading diseases. Dwayne Breining, senior vice president of lab services, described tests as an important way of catching and responding to cases before they escalate. Northwell conducts 25 million tests each year in its 100,000-square-foot laboratory, making use of cutting-edge machinery and artificial intelligence

partnered with medical experts. Even with this processing power, there has been a broader need for results. The Northwell team announced LabGold, a free three-in-one “tripledemic” test that can be picked up and dropped off at the system’s various patient service centers. “You can get one of our PCR tests at any health care site,” Breining said. “We recommend the triple test for flu, RSV and Covid, because, symptom-wise, they look the same, so you may not know what you have if you feel sick. … Usually within 24 hours, you’ll have the definitive PCR result.” As the senior vice president of pediatric services at Northwell, Annemarie Stroustrup oversees Cohen Children’s Medical Center, where sickness has spread. “The story that you hear for adults is virtually the same for children,” Stroustrup said. “There is a lot of flu in the community.” Northwell’s pediatric patients show a much lower rate of RSV infection, however. “I think part of that is because there are new products on the market for babies and for pregnant women to get vaccinated or prophylaxed against RSV,” Stroustrup said. “The vaccine does help keep kids out of the hospital.” To learn more about Northwell’s testing and LabGold, visit nwhlabs.Northwell.edu/Covid-19-testing.

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STEPPING OUT

Courtesy Met Opera

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

From Long Island to Lincoln Center Center stage at the Metropolitan Opera with Christian Van Horn By Daniel Offner

ith 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. “Everyone knew that the people who were the best at everything were in New York City.” That ambition ultimately carried him to the storied Metropolitan Opera, where he made his debut in 2013 and has been a regular presence ever since. This winter, he is scheduled ChrisTian to appear in two Van horn overlapping productions on the company’s stage. Starting Dec. 31, the Met presents a new production of Vincenzo Bellini’s “I Puritani,” featuring Van Horn as Giorgio Walton. The opera runs through Jan. 18 and will be broadcast live in movie theaters across Long Island and worldwide as part of the Met’s longrunning “Met Live in HD” series. He’ll also be performing as Escamillo in Georges Bizet’s “Carmen,” which runs from Jan. 11 through Jan. 23 at the Met. Van Horn, 46, was introduced to performing at an early age, when his mother got him involved in the church choir — a decision that quietly shaped his future.

here were as many people telling me I couldn’t do it as there was telling me I could.

“I think it was to keep me out of trouble,” he says jokingly. “I just sort of never quit.” He spent his earliest years in Rockville Centre, from birth in 1978, followed by a move to East Meadow, before the family ended up in Centereach, where he attended high school. Through all of it, music remained a constant thread. “I was doing music and Broadway shows right through high school,” he says. “I wanted to keep going. I didn’t know anything else.” After high school, he attended Stony Brook University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in music before continuing his studies at Yale. Van Horn began formal classical vocal training in earnest during college, where a professional vocalist recognized his promise and encouraged him to pursue singing as a career. “There were as many people telling me I couldn’t Courtesy Met Opera/Jonathan Tichler do it as there was telling me I could,” he recalls. “I Van Horn in rehearsal for the took a lot of motivation from the ones who told me I upcoming“I Puritani” at the Met Opera. couldn’t.” He adds that his drive was fueled as much by skepticism as encouragement, reflecting the competitive nature of growing up on Long Island. “There’s a competition that exists when people live so close together,” he explains. “I think that sense of proximity and rivalry really shaped how I approach my career — always striving to be better, always aiming for that next level.” Van Horn has since performed on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including La Scala in Milan, the Royal Opera House in London and the Paris Opera. Recognized for his operatic flair and rich bass-baritone voice, he has performed a diverse range of roles, from Mozart and Verdi to more contemporary works. In the upcoming production of “I Puritani” he observes that the demands are especially exacting. “The soloists in this are the Olympic athletes of opera,” he says. At its core, according to Van Horn, performing is about offering audiences a brief escape from what he terms the “monotony” of daily life. “Let’s help people leave reality for a minute. The story we’re telling is easy. It’s a forbidden love story. It’s opera confusion. It’s not rocket science. “And so my whole approach to performing is: let’s bring people into our little world. Let’s ruin them with beautiful music and beautiful singing, and they can go back to the world and look at their phones or watch the news or all the things that make us crazy.” “I Puritani” debuts at the Metropolitan Opera on Dec. 31 and will be broadcast to movie theaters worldwide Live in HD on Jan. 11. “Carmen” follows from Jan. 11 to Jan. 23. For tickets and more information, visit metopera.com.

MANIA brings ABBA fans old and new a night not to be missed. If you’re looking for an excuse to party, reminisce or simply be entertained, then you’ll want to see MANIA. In 2024, the iconic pop group celebrated the 50th anniversary of their breakthrough hit single, “Waterloo,” and MANIA is excited to continue sharing the joy of this monumental milestone with audiences on their latest tour. Costumes, lively choreography and impeccable musicianship combine for an unforgettable authentic ABBA experience.Join them as they recreate the magic of ABBA’s music, transporting you back to the ‘70s disco. So dig out those platforms, dust down those flares, join in and enjoy all of your favorites, including “Mamma Mia,” “Voulez Vous,” “Dancing Queen,”“Winner Takes It All,” “Super Trouper,” and many more.

Wednesday, Jan 7, 8 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Albert Lee Celebrated by fans and musicians the world over for his fingerstyle and hybrid picking technique, guitar icon Albert Lee is back on the road. He performs tracks from his newest album, “Lay It Down” recorded at the legendary Konk Studios in London A double Grammy winner with Earl Scruggs and Brad Paisley, Lee has played with everyone from Jerry Lee Lewis to Eric Clapton, to the Everly Brothers to Emmylou Harris. A member of The Crickets in the post-Buddy Holly era, he forged an impressive solo career along the way. His latest album is a love letter to some of Albert’s favorite artists and biggest inspirations. From Mark Knopfler’s blistering “Setting Me Up” to Jimmy Webb’s soaring piano ballad “Too Young To Die,” to The Everly Brothers’ storming hit “The Price Of Love.” Don’t miss the man known as “Mr. Telecaster,” one of the legendary guitarists of rock ‘n roll, rockabilly and country music. He continues to tour with his signature Ernie Ball Music Man Guitar.

Friday, Jan 10, 8 p.m. $53. My Father’s Place 1221 Old Northern Blvd., Roslyn. Tickets available at mfpproductions.com.

NASSAU HERALD — January 1, 2026

‘Digging the dancing queen…’

January 1, 2026 — NASSAU HERALD

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD JAN

‘Home for the Holidays’ Pet Adoption

CALENDAR • Time: 1-3 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

There’s no better time to adopt a new pet than during “Home for the Holidays’ at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter. All adoption fees are waived and include free spaying/neutering, vaccinations and micro-chipping. Preview the cats and dogs online at Hempsteadny.gov/179/animalshelter.

JAN

Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library welcomes all to make elderberry syrup with Janice Imbrogno. Elderberries are one of the world’s most healing plants; elderberry syrup is used as an immune support and for cold and flu relief. Learn how to make your own elderberry syrup using dried elderberries, honey, cinnamon, and essential oils. Registration required.

• Where: 3320 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh • Time: Ongoing, through Jan. 4. • Contact: (516) 785-5220

On Exhibit

Nassau County Museum of Art invites visitors into a world where reality is uncertain, dreams take shape, and the line between fact and imagination disappears. Works in “Real, Surreal, and Photoreal” challenge what we see and what we believe. Before abstraction took the spotlight in the mid-20th century, American artists captured the world as they saw it. This exhibit explores how artists across generations have reimagined “the real” in strikingly different ways. Works from both American and European artists are featured. On view through March 8. • Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor • Time: Ongoing • Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

JAN

Yacht Rock Revue, hailed by Rolling Stone as the “world’s premier soft-rock party band,” invites audiences on a nostalgic voyage through the sun-soaked melodies of the ‘70s and ‘80s. This dynamic 10- piece ensemble blends impeccable musicianship with a deep reverence for the yacht rock genre. Many reverently consider the Atlanta, Ga. Band keepers of the Yacht Rock fire. Since their humble beginnings in 2007, YRR has emerged as a pivotal figure in revitalizing yacht rock, sharing stages with icons and garnering a devoted following of “Anchorheads.” Whether performing in intimate venues or rocking arenas, their concerts promise an immersive musical journey that celebrates the timeless allure of smooth grooves. Inspired by the golden era of soft rock, the band has mastered the art of recreating the breezy and laid-back tunes that defined a generation. From the sun-kissed melodies of Steely Dan and Michael McDonald to the velvety harmonies of Hall & Oates, their repertoire spans an ocean of beloved hits that evoke memories of palm trees, ocean breezes and carefree summers. But Yacht Rock Revue isn’t just a tribute band; they are musical alchemists, seamlessly blending their own unique style • Where: The Paramount, 370 New with the iconic yacht rock vibe. Their original compositions are a modern ode York Ave., Huntington to the genre, capturing the essence of those bygone days while infusing it with • Time: 8 p.m.; also Jan 9-10 a fresh and invigorating twist. $82, $60.25, $49.25 $37.25 • Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

JAN ‘Everybody Loves Raymond: Celebrating 30 Years’

Visit the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame for its latest exhibit. It features the 70-foot-wide set from the show’s recent 30th anniversary TV special on CBS, never before on display. The exhibit (designed by LIMEHOF Creative Director and renowned designer Kevin O’Callaghan) is a completely immersive experience. Visitors can walk into the world of the Barone family and explore their home through original studio sets, which include the living room, the kitchen, and other areas of the house. Also see a variety of iconic items, including original clothing, the famous fork and spoon, and the Christmas toaster, among other classic items from the series. Multimedia clips, including behind the scenes and rare out-takes and a range of videos related to the show, play in LIMEHOF’s surround sound theater. • Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook • Time: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Yacht Rock Revue

• Contact: limusichalloffame.org or (631) 689-5888

Celebrate the Sea

Families are welcome make a splash at Long Island Children’s Museum. Our oceans are estimated to have over 35,000 different species of fish and the museum is celebrating them all! Come by and decorate your own beautiful and unique fish to bring home. This is a drop-in program, free with admission. • Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: Noon-2 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

JAN

Gemstone bracelet workshop

Make your own gemstone bracelet with Ofra Levin at Peninsula Public Library. Learn the meaning behind stones like amethyst, rose quartz, and citrine. A relaxing, mindful way to welcome the new year with good energy! Registration is required, spots are limited. $15 material fee per person.

• Where: 280 Central Ave., Lawrence • Time: 7-9 p.m. • Contact: peninsulapublic.org or (516) 967-5777

JAN

Monthly Power Hour

Adults 18 and over who are neurodivergent or have developmental disabilities are invited to Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library crafts and socializing. Join in a variety of quality crafts and activities each month, or just come to hang out. No registration necessary. • Where: 1125 Broadway, Hewlett • Time: 5:30-6:30 p.m. • Contact: hwpl.org or (516) 374-1967

JAN

Make your own elderberry syrup

Great Hebrew short stories in translation

Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library welcomes all to hear stories selected from The Oxford Book of Hebrew Short Stories: “Travel Notes,” by Yosef Hayyim Brenner. Discussion Leader is Prof. Mira Sennett. • Where: 1125 Broadway, Hewlett • Time: 10:30 a.m.-noon • Contact: hwpl.org or (516) 374-1967

JAN

Elated Eagles

Long Island Children’s Museum invites families to discover the mighty eagle. Since 1782, the bald eagle has been the United States’ national emblem and mascot. These amazing animals have an impressive wingspan of 7 feet and use their strong wings to soar 10,000 feet in the air. Come learn all about these majestic birds and make your own flying eagle craft in honor of National Save the Eagles Day. This is a drop-in program, free with admission.

• Where: 1125 Broadway, Hewlett • Time: 2-3:30 p.m. • Contact: hwpl.org or (516) 374-1967

Facial and skincare workshop

Take time to unwind and care for your skin in this gentle, handson facial class using Arbonne’s vegan, plant-based products at Peninsula Public Library. Enjoy a relaxing evening focused on self-care and renewal, and obtain tips on the products that work best for your skin. Patrons are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing, arrive with clean faces, and have their hair pulled back. Registration required; spots are limited. $10 materials fee per person. • Where: 280 Central Ave., Lawrence • Time: 7-9 p.m. • Contact: peninsulapublic.org or (516) 967-5777

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: Noon-2 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

JAN

Morse Code Moniker

Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes families to Learn Your Name in Morse Code Day. Stop by to learn about Samuel Morse, the telegraph and learn how to spell your name in dashes and dots while making a bracelet. This is a drop-in program. Also discover more about Morse code in Communication Station on the second floor. • Where: Museum Row, Garden City

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.

Hewlett-Woodmere District clerk Barbara Randazo retires

By AIDAN WARSHAVSKY

NASSAU HERALD — January 1, 2026

awarshavsky@liherald.com

Aidan Warshavsky / Herald Photos

Barbara Randazo, fourth from left, was celebrated with cake and a plant from the middle school’s Outdoor Enviornmental Center. “She would give me a little smile, a thumbs up, a compliment, and honestly it helped me grow,” she said. During the election cycle in May, Randazo oversaw the process, demonstrating her ability to handle the hectic four-week period with precision, calmness —a quality colleagues said stood out. The recognition attracted appearances from former trustee members Scot McInnes, Harold Kislik, and Dr. Jonathan Altus—all of which have served with Randazo’s assistance.

Altus, who served on the board from 2012 to 2018, thanked Mrs. Randazo for her exceptional leadership and mentorship, and praised her for her kindness and longterm impact on the district. “She is the exemplary person as to how all should behave, and a role model not only for the students in our district, but for the staff for the school board and for visitors, and for all members of our community in life,” Altus said. “Thank you very much for making this a better place. It was a privilege and honor to be able to have you, be

able to work with you and what you’ve done. I wish you the best in your retirement.” Despite her retirement, Randazo extended her support for the board and superintendent for an additional six months to ensure a smooth transition—a testament to her commitment and kindness. “Thank you for everything you’ve done and everything you’ve been,” Sheinin said. “We love you, we appreciate you, and we are wishing you nothing but happiness in the next chapter.”

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Members of the Hewlett-Woodmere School District gathered at Franklin Early Childhood Center in recognition of district clerk Barbara Randazo, who announced her retirement earlier this year. Randazo, who had served the district for over two decades, was well known for her calm demeanor, organizational skills, and unwavering commitment to the district. For the last 16 years, she worked as secretary to the superintendent and district clerk of the Board of Education. District Superintendent Dina Anzalone has a history with Randazo dating back to when she first joined the district in May of 2005, when Randazo served as her clerical assistant. “I felt like I hit the jackpot,” she said, highlighting the dedication, knowledge, and calming presence. “She was classy, organized and really smart.” Randazo left her role to become the secretary to the superintendent on July 1, 2005, but the flame of appreciation still remained. “[She’s] an extraordinary woman who has been the backbone of not only the superintendent’s office, but for WEC (Woodmere Education Center) for nearly two decades,” Anzalone said. Debi Sheinin, the Board of Education president, often sought advice from Randazo during her tenure and words of encouragement, which Sheinin attributes to her success.

Public Notices

News brief

January 1, 2026 — NASSAU HERALD

LNAS1 0101

LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a public hearing will be held as to the following matter: Agency: Board of Appeals Village of Hewlett Neck Date: January 6, 2026 Time: 6:00 p.m. Place: Village Hall, 30 Piermont Avenue, Hewlett, New York Subject: Application of Sara Maligold, 210 Dolphin Drive, Hewlett Neck, New York, to construct a third story on the single-family dwelling that is under construction, which construction requires variances of the following Village Code sections: (a) § 195-12(A), to permit a dwelling with a third story, where there is a maximum of two and a half stories for a dwelling; (b) § 195-2., to permit a finished attic, where an attic with finished space is considered a story. Premises are also known as Section 41, Block 106, Lot 30 on the Nassau County Land and Tax Map. At the said time and place, all interested persons may be heard with respect to the foregoing matters. This application is a Type II Action under the State Environmental Quality Review Act. Any person having a disability which would inhibit attendance at or participation in the hearing should notify the Village Clerk at least three business days prior to the hearing, so that reasonable efforts may be made to facilitate such attendance and participation. All relevant documents may be inspected at the office of the Village Clerk, 30 Piermont Avenue, Hewlett, New York, during regular business hours. Dated: December 22, 2025 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF APPEALS Michelle Blandino, Village Clerk 157589 LEGAL NOTICE Village of Lawrence Legal Notice NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Appeals of the Incorporated Village of Lawrence will hold a work session beginning at 6:45 P.M. followed by a public meeting on January 7, 2026 at Lawrence Yacht and

Country Club, 101 Causeway, Lawrence, New York 11559 beginning at 7:30 P.M. to conduct the following Public Hearings and to attend to such other matters as may properly come before the Board: M & A Gural JCC, Inc, 140 Central Avenue Consideration of whether a pre-existing nonconforming ancillary catering use should be modified to allow a stand-alone catering use not ancillary to temple and school; whether a parking variance should be granted for same; interpretation of various matters sought by Property Owner. Portnoy,148 Sutton Pl Section 212.12.1 Schedule Dimensional Regulations states, the maximum building coverage for a lot size of 13,630 sq. ft. in an area is 3,172 sq. ft. Section 212-12.1 of Schedule Dimensional Regulations states, the maximum surface coverage for a lot size of 13,630 sq. ft. in area is 6,133.5, sq. ft. Section 212-12.1 Schedule Dimensional Regulations states, the maximum rear yard setback for a lot size of 13,630 sq. ft. is 30. Section 212-24.D of the code of the Village of Lawrence states, in a Residence District B, the minimum side yard setback for an accessory structure is 8ft. Section 212-24.D of the code of the Village of Lawrence states, in a Residence District B, the minimum side yard setback for an accessory structure is 8ft. Section 212-24.D of the code of the Village of Lawrence states, in a Residence District B, the minimum rear yard setback for an accessory structure is 8ft.Section 212-55.B of the Code of the Village of Lawrence states, in a Residence District B, the minimum side yard setback for a recreational structure is 20 ft. Section 212-55.B of the Code of the Village of Lawrence states, in a Residence District B, the minimum rear yard setback for a recreational structure is 20 ft. The order in which the listed applications are heard shall be determined the night of the meeting. The applications and accompanying exhibits are on file and may be inspected at the Village Office during normal

business hours between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. If anyone needs special accommodations for a disability, such person should contact the Village Clerk at least 5 days before the hearing. All interested parties will have the opportunity to be heard By Order of the Board of Appeals Lloyd Keilson Chairman Dated: December 29, 2025 157590

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. FNA DZ, LLC, Pltf. vs. FAYE KLAUSNER, Defts. Index #604761/2024. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered November 26, 2025, I will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on February 5, 2026 at 3:30 p.m. premises k/a Section 58, Block 84 Lot 28-30. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. The foreclosure sale will be held, “rain or shine.” PAUL MELI, Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY 11021.#102695 157575 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: K2 Ethics, LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 05/25/25. NY Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as an agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: 231 Polo Lane Lawrence, NY 11559 Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity. 157016 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT NASSAU COUNTY HANOVER COMMUNITY BANK, Plaintiff against YAFA PINKHASOVA, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Fein Such & Crane, LLP, 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800, Rochester, NY 14614. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered September 11,

2025, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 9, 2026 at 2:00 PM. Premises known as 36 Trinity Place, Hewlett, NY 11557. Sec 41. Block 9 Lot 46. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in Hewlett, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $1,020,079.79 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 606955/2022. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” Steven E Losquadro, Esq., Referee File # HNBNY001 157253

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT NASSAU COUNTY HANOVER COMMUNITY BANK, Plaintiff against YAFA PINKHASOVA, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Fein Such & Crane, LLP, 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800, Rochester, NY 14614. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered September 11, 2025, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 9, 2026 at 2:00 PM. Premises known as 36 Trinity Place, Hewlett, NY 11557. Sec 41. Block 9 Lot 46. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in Hewlett, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Courtesy Avi Shaver

The Hebrew Academy of the Five Towns and Rockaway hosting the CIJE’s VEX Robotics Tournament.

HAFTR hosts CIJE VEX Robotics Tournament The Hebrew Academy of the Five Towns and Rockaway concluded its hosting of CIJE’s VEX Robotics Tournament, a two-day celebration of STEM learning, teamwork and innovation that brought together students and schools from across the region. The expanded two-day format allowed for increased opportunities to showcase student skill and ability. HAFTR students earned top honors across every division. High school teams finished in first and second place, middle school teams captured both firstand second-place wins, and the lower school team continued its streak by taking first place for the fourth consecutive year. The results reflected technical skill, perseverance, collaboration and a

strong enthusiasm for learning. The school’s robotics program follows a progression that begins in the lower school, expands through middle school exploration and culminates in advanced design and engineering at the high school level. Students are encouraged throughout the program to ask questions, take risks and develop problem-solving skills. HAFTR thanked CIJE for its continued partnership and recognized Phillip Brazil and Adam Jerozolim for their leadership in creating an engaging platform for students. The tournament highlighted the school’s emphasis on curiosity, collaboration and growth through robotics education. — Melissa Berman

Approximate Amount of Judgment is $1,020,079.79 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 606955/2022. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” Steven E Losquadro, Esq., Referee File # HNBNY001 157167

permitted lot coverage in residential “AB” district is 25%. Applicant currently has 48.2 % lot coverage. Applicant is proposing an increase to 48.4%. “Zoning Code: 145-19 States the maximum permitted front yard coverage is 21%. Applicant is requesting to maintain 38.9%. “Zoning Code; 145-19 States side yard setback requires a minimum of 20 feet. Applicant is requesting to maintain 16.9 feet. BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS DR. JULIO NOVELLO, CHAIRMAN ZONING BOARD Peter Lynch - Building Superintendent Dated: Hewlett Harbor, New York December 17, 2025 157457

Public Notices LEGAL NOTICE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF HEWLETT HARBOR PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Zoning Appeals of the Incorporated Village of Hewlett Harbor will hold a public hearing at Village Hall on Wednesday January 7, 2026 at 7:00PM. A Zoom link to the meeting is available on our website at www.hewlettharbor.go v. All interested parties will be given the opportunity to be heard on the following applications for variance relief: Ramnarine & Hamwattie Dabie 1130 Seawane Drive Hewlett Harbor, NY 11557 -Applicant is proposing to construct an addition to the existing garage on the property. The applicant is requesting relief from Village Zoning Codes. “Zoning Code: 145-19 States the maximum

PUBLIC & LEGAL NOTICES To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com

LEGAL NOTICE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF HEWLETT HARBOR LEGAL NOTICE MONTHLY MEETING OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Trustees of the Village of Hewlett Harbor will meet in both public and via Zoom on January 8, 2026, at 7PM, Eastern Standard Time, for the purpose of holding the Village’s regular monthly meeting. All residents wishing to attend via Zoom can visit www.hewlettharbor.go v for instructions. Residents wishing to speak via Zoom or in person must notify the Village Clerk in advance. Dated: December 19, 2025 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES LISA JAMES VILLAGE CLERK 157466

W1 01/01

Employment

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Fax your ad to: 516-622-7460 E-mail your ad to: ereynolds@liherald.com E-mail Finds Under $100 to: sales@liherald.com DEADLINE: Monday, 11:00 am for all classified ads.

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Every effort is made to insure the accuracy of your ad. Please check your ad at the first insertion. Credit will be made only for the first insertion. Credit given for errors in ads is limited to the printed space involved. Publisher reserves right to reject, cancel or correctly classify an ad.

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CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE Full Time/Part Time Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multi-task, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $17 per hour to $20 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: circulationassociate@liherald.com

DRIVERS WANTED

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 One phone call, one order, one heck of a good price to run your ad in any state, or across the country.

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Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. H i s t o r i c a l l y, r e p o r t e r s w h o h ave launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT 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

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Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $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

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NASSAU HERALD — January 1, 2026

HERALD

January 1, 2026 — NASSAU HERALD

W2 01/01

Homes

HERALD

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

HOME OF THE WEEK

• To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

Merrick

Charming Expanded Cape Cod

Sidewalks, fences and property lines don’t always line up Q. I keep going back and forth, literally, from my plans to my yard, because we’re putting on an addition, which I wanted to be bigger, but I also want to avoid a zoning variance. I understand that a variance would add time and money to the whole process, and if it can be avoided, that’s what I want. But my property looks bigger in every direction from where the addition will go, and I don’t understand why. I used my survey and carefully measured to my sidewalk and fences, and the distances are much more than the survey shows. Should I get another survey? Do you ever see this, and can you explain whether I’m doing something wrong to get the distances? A. From your description, the only thing you may be doing wrong is assuming that the sidewalks and fences are actually boundaries when they probably aren’t. It’s good to avoid the zoning variance process whenever possible, since the request to vary from the zoning regulations is supposed to be reserved for proposed work only when onte eeper there’s a practical problem in resolving the design and/or when there isn’t a better alternative. Unfortunately, the location of many properties isn’t uniform to sidewalks and streets. In other words, the sidewalk is often not a property boundary, but is set back a uniform distance from the street and is a uniform width parallel to the street. The original property line may be inches or even feet farther away from the sidewalk or street, and not right at the edge of the sidewalk. Sure, you take care of that lawn and assume it’s yours, but, in truth, it often isn’t your property, but instead is part of the street right-of-way. When it comes to fences, most often a fence company needs to get in, get out and get paid. As a result, the fence may be in the right place, but probably not. I’m very impressed when people show me the fence permit their new fence received from a responsible fence company, mainly because I rarely see those permits and, instead, we get bogged down with applying for the fence permit when called to do a much larger project. I rarely see a survey where the fences are placed directly on the property line, which is where they’re supposed to be. Instead the fence line meanders off the property line in one direction or the other because nobody wanted to spend money or take the time to have the property line accurately staked by a surveyor. So what you may be measuring is possibly off your property line, giving you misleading information. What should be done is to confirm, with a stakeout, the location of the property lines to determine the location of your proposed addition. You could also ask to have the property staked to know if other fences are correctly placed, and include locating the new addition. Good luck!

Ask The Architect

harming expanded 4-bedroom Cape with modern updates and prime location. This beautifully maintained expanded Cape offers a spacious and inviting layout perfect for both relaxing and entertaining. Step inside to a bright and airy living room, featuring hardwood floors and plenty of space for family gatherings. The dining area is ideal for both casual meals and formal dinners and flows seamlessly into the renovated kitchen. The kitchen is a highlight, featuring stainless steel appliances, sleek granite countertops, modern cabinetry, and recessed lighting. A door off the kitchen leads to the large backyard, a fantastic space for outdoor entertainment and summer BBQs. The first floor includes two generous bedrooms with ample closet space and a stylishly updated full bathroom. Upstairs you'll find two more large bedrooms, both with great closet storage, along with another fully renovated bathroom. The full unfinished basement offers endless potential use as additional living space for a home gym or storage with the convenience of an on-site washer/dryer. The exterior is just as appealing with well-maintained landscaping, a charming attached 1-car garage and a paver and cement driveway that adds to the home’s curb appeal. In addition, the house is equipped with a generator. Perfectly situated close to transportation, schools, and shopping, this home offers both comfort and convenience. With its combination of classic Cape Cod charm and modern updates, this home is move-in ready and waiting for you to make it your own. Asking $779,000.

REAL ESTATE Real Estate WE BUY HOUSES for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-888-704-5670

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EDITH TESAR Real Estate Salesperson M: 516-382-2075 Denise Azzato Real Estate Sales Person M: 516-644-3929 CB American Homes 493 Atlantic Avenue, Oceanside P: 516-223-2525

Rent Your Apartment through the Herald and PrimeTime Classified section. Call us for our great *specials. 516-5694000, press 5 for Classified Dept. *(private party only)

Helping you find a HOME or sell a HOME … a place to call your own. Suburb or country, house, condo, townhouse or apartment, our Classifieds can help you find a HOME that fits your style, your budget and Real Estate needs... it’s a MUST SEE!

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Your Hometown Newspaper

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© 2025 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

W3 01/01

Market Place • •

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JOBS, MERCHANDISE, REAL ESTATE & MORE... JOBS, MERCHANDISE, It’s in the Herald Classifieds... REAL ESTATE & MORE... Call 516-569-4000 JOBS,To Advertise MERCHANDISE, REAL ESTATE & MORE... JOBS, MERCHANDISE, REAL ESTATE & MORE... press 5

January 1, 2026 — NASSAU HERALD

HERALD

Stuff

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5 ANNOUNCEMENTS

Finds Under $100

Announcements

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FINDS UNDER $100 Finds Under $100 BEDSPREAD: DESIGNER QUEEN Size, Deluxe, with Matching Pillows, Brand New Set. Never Used. $99 516-486-7941 CHILD'S CRIB/MATTRESS. WOOD frame, good condition. $30. Lido beach. (516)705-8398 CHRISTMAS AFGHAN 48X67 $45.00 Brand New. Call Pat 516-826-0359

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opinions

very new year brings with it the anticipation of what might be. Leaving 2025 and all its tumult and drama in our rearview mirror, Long Islanders, New Yorkers and Americans enter 2026 with hope, anticipation … and some concern. On a positive note, the economy appears to have stabilized, and might even be ready to take off. Inflation has slowed and gas prices are down. All is not perfect, of course. Too many basic food products still pETER have high prices, KinG and there is the specter of artificial intelligence and what impact it will have on the economy and our lives. But at least for the short run, the signs are positive for solid growth and an overall good economy for Nassau and Suffolk. New York City, though, could be another story, and difficulties in the Big Apple necessarily carry the risk of bleeding over into Nassau County. This isn’t a partisan screed, but with its first election ever of an avowed democratic

socialist mayor, the city has raised the stakes. Will Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s economic policies drive businesses — businesses that employ many Long Islanders! — out of New York? Will his proposals to curtail police activity cause an increase in crime and a concomitant increase in cross-border crime? All this will be part of the statewide gubernatorial campaign, which will have Long Island at its epicenter, with County Executive Bruce Blakeman carrying the Republican banner against incumbent Gov. Kathy Hochul. This race will not only have a focus on the Mamdani factor, but will be run against the competing backdrops of the progressive hold on the Democratic Party and the favorable/unfavorable ratio of President Trump’s policies on Long Island and New York. It could well be a campaign for the history books, with Long Island dominating the prologue, the chapters and the conclusion. On a somewhat lighter note, how will our sports teams do? Can the Yankees escape the doldrums of early postseason playoff exits? Will the Mets overcome the loss of core players and fan favorites

Pete Alonso and Brandon Nimmo, and baseball’s star closer, Edwin Diaz, to recapture the magic of the 2024 season? Back to serious matters: 2026 will marks the 250th anniversary of the American experiment, which has seen the United States emerge as the world’s beacon for freedom and liberty, and the most prosperous and powerful military force in the history of the world. With that power and prosperity has come responsibility beyond our borders, manifested dramatically in assisting our European allies in World War I; crushing Hitler and Nazism in World War II; and forging NATO and other alliances with democratic allies to lead the free world through the long struggle of the Cold War to defeat Soviet imperialism and bring down the prison of the Iron Curtain to free the captive nations of Eastern Europe. This was followed, of course, by America’s heroic response to the horrific attacks of Sept. 11, and its coordination of the larger response of the civilized world to Islamist terrorism — particularly its main components, Al Qaeda and ISIS. That struggle isn’t entirely

ong Island looks likely to be the epicenter of the gubernatorial campaign.

over, and we can never take our foot off their throats, but the forces of terrorism have definitely been subdued. My concern now, as we begin 2026, is whether America is in danger of abdicating its position of world leadership and returning to the failed America First isolationist policies of the 1930s, which led us to retreat within our borders and refuse to assist European democracies in the climactic struggle against Hitler and Nazism until it was almost too late. We can’t be weakening western alliances like NATO or in any way enabling resurgent despots like Russian President Vladimir Putin. In deciding what aid to provide countries like Ukraine that are courageously resisting brutal Russian aggression, we must not once again make the isolationist mistake of focusing on the cost of everything and the value of nothing. Forgetting the cruel lessons of the past could only force us to relive them. America’s history is a proud one. It’s my hope that 2026 will see the rekindling and strengthening of the flame of freedom that has burned so brightly since 1776, and the love of liberty that has fueled it. Happy New Year! Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.

For President Trump, too many missed opportunities

hen you reach the stage in life that I have, you’ve seen politicians come and go. I have seen overly aggressive pols flame out because they thought they knew everything, and it turned out they knew nothing. I have seen brilliant political people crash and burn because they thought their secrets would never be uncovered. And I have watched Donald Trump go through more ups and downs than any political figure I can recall. When Trump JERRY took the oath of office last JanuKREMER ary, I wondered whether he was aware of the many opportunities a president has to create a lasting, positive legacy. Now that he has been in office for a year, I’m taking a look back at his actions, which I will try to keep as fair and balanced as possible, considering that I’m a Democrat. I have known the president in ways other than having interacted with him

as officeholder. I have been one of his many lawyers over a long period, so I’ve had an up-close view of him in the many roles he has played. I’ve watched him in action, and have some knowledge of how he views the outside world and people in general. So I temper my comments with the knowledge of a man who went from master builder to commander in chief. As hard as I try to single out the positive things Trump has done, I must start by saying that his time in office up to now is a long period of missed opportunities. He came into office with a chance to make the Republican Party one of the strongest parties in American history. Instead it faces a potential electoral disaster this coming November. The results of many contests last November prove that the 2026 elections will be a real challenge for the party of Abraham Lincoln. I agree with many of my friends who are Trump supporters that he has successfully closed the border to new entrants, keeping his election promise to do just that. Sadly, President Biden

caved in to the progressive wing of the Democratic Party and allowed an estimated 11 million immigrants into our country. There is a mechanism for people to enter the country, but it was badly abused under Biden. America has always been the beacon of hope for people throughout the world, but Trump’s current immigration policy is a disaster, because it keeps out much of the professional talent that we badly need. Setting the immigration quota at 7,500 people, with a preference given to white South Africans, makes no sense. Silicon Valley executives will find a way to get the talent they need, but a brilliant researcher from, say, Sri Lanka who wants to work at a hospital specializing in cancer treatment will be blocked from coming here unless his or her potential employer wants to spend a million dollars. We can all agree that there is too much waste in government at all levels. There is a need for careful analysis of needed jobs, and then those that aren’t needed should be eliminated. Regrettably, that didn’t happen in Washington.

nd as a result, the GOP faces a potential electoral disaster in November.

Elon Musk took on the assignment of cleaning house, and used his buzz saw to cut alleged waste. More than 160,000 people lost their jobs, but many in Washington tell me that many badly needed personnel got the ax. As of now, not one person kicked out of their job has been prosecuted for “fraud or abuse.” During his 2024 campaign, Trump promised that his focus would be on cutting costs for the average American. You can call it a “Democratic hoax” or whatever you want, but millions of Americans are hurting from crushing prices, and there is nothing on the horizon that will change that. Lots of readers will weigh in on the pros and cons that I haven’t mentioned, but I don’t have the space to recite them all. The recent remarks of an Indiana Republican state senator struck a chord in my mind. She said she was a Trump supporter, “but I don’t like his tone.” 2025 was a year when he could have set a positive tone for America that could have helped heal our great divide. That was his biggest missed opportunity. Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. Comments about this column? jkremer@ liherald.com.

NASSAU HERALD — January 1, 2026

We’re all wondering what the new year will bring

Herald editorial

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Before the flu bug bites, get the shot

ew York is heading into the heart of winter with warning lights flashing across its health care system. Based on figures provided by Northwell, influenza cases typically increase by 30 percent every flu season, but since Thanksgiving, flu hospitalizations statewide have surged by 75 percent, and cases of the flu, respiratory syncytial virus and Covid-19 are all rising together. Emergency rooms and urgent care centers are busier by the week, hospitals are operating above normal capacity and the seasonal wave has not yet crested. This convergence of viruses is more than a troubling trend line; it is a clear signal that now is the time for decisive action, starting with getting the flu shot. There were 71,123 documented flu cases in New York state as of Dec. 20, according to the State Department of Health. Northwell usually has upward of 3,000 patients in its hospital beds, but as of Dec. 18, there were 3,500, and roughly 10 percent were flu-related cases. Hospitals are accustomed to being busy in the winter, but this season is proving especially challenging. Patient counts have already exceeded typical levels, with flu accounting for a meaningful share of admissions. The virus is spreading rapidly in our communities, and the curve continues to climb. Historically, influenza remains active through March and even April, meaning the strain on hospitals and health care workers could persist for months. When capacity is stretched, delays and disruptions affect everyone, not just those sick with respiratory viruses.

letters Ari Brown scoffs at speed cameras To the Editor: Assemblyman Ari Brown cast himself as a proud suburbanite in his Dec 11-17 commentary, “Long Island is done being treated like a piggy bank.” He extolled “a way of life that makes sense for families who want safe streets, good schools, backyards and the freedom to live without being crushed by taxes or strangled by government overreach.” But Brown is actually more of an antiurbanite. He had nothing positive to say about the five boroughs, depicting them as beset by “corruption, crime, mismanagement and failed progressive policies.” And worse may be coming, he warned, in the form of a “New York City ‘ticket to oblivion’ mentality creeping into Nassau County.” Brown was referring to the presence of

The flu vaccine is one of the most reliable tools available to blunt this impact. While it may not prevent every infection, it significantly reduces the severity of illness. Vaccinated people who do get the flu are far less likely to develop dangerous complications such as pneumonia, respiratory failure and heart problems or to exacerbate chronic diseases. These complications are what drive hospitalizations and deaths, particularly among older adults, young children and people with underlying medical conditions. The stakes are high. Each year, influenza kills tens of thousands of people nationwide, and pediatric deaths from the flu remain a devastating reality. Yet vaccination rates remain lower than they should be, in part because of lingering misinformation and the false belief that it is too late once winter arrives. While early fall is the ideal time to get vaccinated, protection at any point in the season is better than none. The flu virus doesn’t follow a fixed calendar, and immunity gained today can still make the difference between a mild illness at home and a dangerous hospitalization weeks from now. With the virus expected to circulate well into spring, delaying vaccination only increases risk. Laboratory data underscore the urgency. Testing volumes for flu, RSV and Covid have surged as all three viruses spread simultaneously. Because symptoms often look alike, many people underestimate or misidentify what they have, potentially exposing others and delaying care. Rapid molecular tests that check for all three viruses now allow for

faster, more accurate diagnoses, helping people take appropriate precautions and seek timely treatment. Children are feeling the impact as well, with flu widespread in the pediatric population. New preventive options for RSV are helping protect infants, but vaccination remains the best way to keep children in school and out of the hospital. Conflicting guidance and pandemic fatigue have made decision-making harder for families, which makes clear, consistent prevention strategies all the more important. And vaccination should not stand alone. Simple, practical steps can further reduce risk. Frequent hand washing remains one of the most effective ways to limit transmission. Wearing a mask in crowded indoor settings can add another layer of protection, especially for those at higher risk. Opening windows when possible or using air purifiers helps reduce the concentration of viruses indoors. Disinfecting high-touch surfaces such as phones, doorknobs and countertops is important, too, because the flu virus can linger on hard surfaces for more than a day. The flu shot isn’t just about individual protection; it’s about community responsibility. As flu, RSV and Covid continue to circulate together, the choice to get vaccinated is one of the simplest and most effective steps people can take to protect not only themselves, but also their vulnerable neighbors. Before the flu bug bites, getting the shot — available at doctors’ offices, pharmacies and urgent care centers — can help ensure that this winter is defined by prevention rather than crisis.

opinions

magine applying for your dream job, or a mortgage for a new home in Nassau County, only to be rejected in seconds by a computer that has never seen your face. This isn’t science fiction; it’s the new reality of the “digital gatekeeper,” artificial intelligence. A.I. is not a neutral force. It is coded by humans, and because humans have biases, those prejudices are being hardwired into the algorithms now making life-altering decisions for our families. The bias see in A.I. can Michaelle we crop up at nearly every stage of a solages model’s development. These models are often trained on massive amounts of information scraped from the internet — data that already contains the historical prejudices and inaccuracies of the digital world. When AI “learns” from this unvetted information, it doesn’t just collect facts; it absorbs and automates human bias. Without human oversight to filter this scraped data, these models will inevitably exhibit prejudice when

they are deployed. In the workforce, for example, AI is already acting as a gatekeeper. Many companies use automated tools to screen resumes and rank candidates. But because these tools are often trained on historical hiring records, they frequently “learn” to exclude older workers or people with disabilities whose career paths may not match a narrow, pre-programmed “ideal.” A local resident might be rejected not because they lack the skills, but because an algorithm using flawed, scraped data penalizes them for a gap in employment or a non-traditional resume. This isn’t meritocracy; it is automated exclusion. In health care, these biases can be life-threatening. Many medical models are built on research data that has historically excluded women, communities of color and people with disabilities. And because these models are often trained on data from younger populations, they may fail to recognize how diseases present differently in older adults. For instance, a medical algorithm might misinterpret a symptom in a senior citizen simply because it was

letters speed cameras in parts of the city that have been proven to discourage reckless driving, thereby saving lives. Brown fears “crawling along at 25 mph amid a maze of speed cameras.” (Tickets are actually not issued unless a driver exceeds 35 mph.) And he recounted responding “absolutely not” to a suggestion that such monitoring devices be installed in Atlantic Beach. “I wouldn’t tolerate that nonsense,” Brown declared. But he presumably does tolerate the 64 road deaths that occurred last year in Nassau County, along with 873 serious injuries — defined as including “lacerations, broken bones, crushed skulls, burns, unconsciousness.” A total of 22 crashes were reported last year in Atlantic Beach, six of them involving injuries, of which three were listed as “serious.” Nearly all these incidents took place on the four-lane highway known as Park Street, where speed cameras would most logically be installed. Brown may believe that enforcement of speed limits amounts to drivers being “strangled by government overreach.” But families of those killed or maimed on our roads may have a different view.

never “taught” to recognize the unique physiology of aging. We cannot allow unvetted data to hard-code health disparities into our hospitals, putting lives at risk based on a person’s age or physical ability. Even the dream of homeownership is at stake. A.I. models often use “proxy factors” to make financial decisions. While these factors may appear neutral, they are often linked to an individual’s race, gender, disability status or age. For many people, these falsely flagged elements can create an invisible barrier to credit and mortgages. Instead of expanding the middle class, unvetted technology can entrench the same inequalities that have kept homeownership out of reach for so many in our community. The path toward a fair digital future requires more than just legislative action; it requires an informed and engaged public. I encourage New Yorkers to stay vigilant and ask questions when they encounter automated systems in their workplaces, doctors’ offices or financial institutions. You have a right to know if a machine is making a decision that affects your livelihood.

oin the conversation about regulating these tools with your representatives.

FraMework by Tim Baker

KEvIN J. KEllEY Atlantic Beach

Comments about our stories? Send a letter to the editor to execeditor@liherald.com.

They were looking to the future at the Electric Light Parade – Long Beach

Most important, I urge you to reach out to your representatives and join the conversation about the regulation of these tools. Your stories and your voices are the most powerful tools we have to ensure that our state laws reflect the needs of the people. New York has always been a trailblazer in landmark legislation, and we must lead the way in establishing a framework for the ethical use of technology. We must promote development that is both safe and smart. By enacting the New York Artificial Intelligence Act (NY AI Act), we can finally establish a formal regulatory framework to protect New Yorkers. This legislation is designed to provide state residents with a shield against algorithmic discrimination by requiring highrisk A.I. systems to undergo independent third-party audits. It shifts the burden of proof from the individual to the entities that develop and deploy these tools, holding them accountable for the fairness and safety of their software. Through close collaboration between the state and industry partners, we can foster a culture of responsible innovation in which technology serves the public good. Michaelle Solages represents the 22nd Assembly District and chairs the Committee on Local Government.

NASSAU HERALD — January 1, 2026

Protecting New Yorkers from the hidden biases of A.I.

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January 1, 2026 — NASSAU HERALD