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MSSN-Anthem split set to affect patient coverage admitted to Mount Sinai South Nassau’s intensive care unit on Dec. 22 and discharged on Dec. 31 Thousands of Long Island resi- — one day before the Mount Sinaidents insured by Anthem Blue Anthem contract expired. “When my husband was in critCross Blue Shield enter the new year facing uncertainty over their ical condition in the ICU, the last medical care after contract negoti- thing I was thinking about was ations between the insurance plan whether our insurance would provider the Mount Sinai Health cover the cost of the critical care he was receiving,” System broke down, Potter said. “I can’t leaving physicians event imagine what out of the Anthem our family would be network as of Jan. 1 facing in the months and hospitals potenahead if the timing tially following in had been different.” March. Both Amy and her The lapse affects husband received letroughly 9,000 Mount ters this week notifySinai physicians, who ing them of the are no longer considch a n g e s. Wi t h ered in-network promonths of follow-up viders for Anthem recovery and rehabilmembers. If no agreeitation ahead, the ment is reached, all AMY POTTER uncertainty, she said, Mount Sinai hospiis overwhelming. tals and facilities — Long Beach “We don’t know at i n cl u d i n g M o u n t Sinai South Nassau, in Oceanside this point if he can continue his — are scheduled to leave the net- care with his Mount Sinai doctors or if we’ll need to find in-network work on March 1. Patients now find themselves doctors elsewhere,” Potter said, caught in the middle of a dispute describing his care at MSSN as “exceptional and lifesaving.” they had no role in creating. “It’s also scary to consider that Amy Potter, of Long Beach, whose husband, Van, recently sur- our local hospital is no longer the vived a massive cardiac arrest, one that we would go to in an said the timing of the dispute has emergency because it no longer left her family shaken. Van was CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

By ABIGAIL GRIECO

agrieco@liherald.com

Abigail Grieco/Herald

Library hosts Lego Portrait program Elena Capello, 9, left, Elizabeth Ruderman, 8, and Avery Delmas, 7, created Lego-style self-portraits at the Island Park Library’s Lego Portrait Painting program on Dec. 30.

Troop 230 honors its newest Eagles

Three Oceanside teens earn the highest rank in Scouting By ABIGAIL GRIECO agrieco@liherald.com

In a ceremony marked by tradition, reflection and praise for service, Troop 230 formally elevated three young men from Oceanside to the rank of Eagle Scout at St. Anthony’s Roman Catholic Church last Saturday — an achievement reached by only a small percentage of Scouts nationwide. Teens Nicholas Bozek, Maxwell Greenberg and Connor Jaffe were honored during an Eagle Scout Court of Honor attended by family members, fellow Scouts, troop leaders, clergy and elected officials. Eagle Scout is the highest rank that could be attained, with only about 4 percent of Scouts earning the dis-

tinction since Scouting’s inception in 1912. Troop 230 Scoutmaster Harold Gerry opened the ceremony, welcoming guests and underscoring the meaning of each rank. Eagle Scouts, he said, are charged with using their training and leadership not only within Scouting but also in their communities and future endeavors. Michael D’Ambrosio, representing Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, addressed the audience and praised the honorees for their commitment to service. D’Ambrosio, who also serves as president of the Oceanside Board of Education, said the scouts exemplify the values of leadership and selflessness. “These are boys that have turned into men,” CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

can’t event imagine what our family would be facing in the months ahead if the timing had been different.

NEWS BRIEFS

I.P. third grader earns CPR certification Island Park third grader Abigail Lopez was recognized for completing the American Heart Association’s Adult CPR AED Program, an achievement that places her among the youngest participants to ear n the certification. Abigail, an eight year-old student at Francis X. Hegarty Elementary S ch o o l , f u l f i l l e d t h e p ro g r a m ’s requirements by passing an online examination that tested her knowledge of emergency response procedures. The exam covered how to assess an emergency scene, the proper number of chest compressions for adults, children and infants and techniques for opening the airway of an unconscious choking victim. In addition to the written component, Abigail completed a threehour, in-person course in Freeport that included hands-on instruction and a practical exam in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of an automated external defibrillator. Town of Hempstead Councilwoman Laura Ryder formally recognized Abigail for her accomplishment, noting both her dedication and her willingness to learn critical life-saving skills at a young age. Ryder said Abigail’s achievements reflect matu-

First baby of 2026 welcomed at Mount Sinai South Nassau on New Year’s Day

Courtesy Island Park Public Schools

Francis X. Hegarty Elementary School third grader Abigail Lopez of Island park was recognized for completing the American Heart Association’s Adult CPR AED Program, placing her among the youngest participants to earn the certification.. rity and a strong sense of community responsibility, incredible traits for someone so young.

— Abigail Grieco

Mount Sinai South Nassau (MSSN) welcomed its first baby of 2026 in the early hours of New Year’s Day with the arrival of James Siegler, born at 2:53 a.m. to East Islip residents Allison Siegler and her husband. James was born just hours into the new year, weighing 5 pounds, 15 ounces. His arrival marked a celebratory milestone at the Oceanside hospital, as staff from the Labor, Delivery and Maternity unit gathered to commemorate the first newborn of 2026. The hospital traditionally recognizes the first baby born of the year as a moment to celebrate new beginnings. Nurses, physicians and maternity staff joined the Siegler family in welcoming James, offering congratulations and well wishes as the new parents began their journey. Mount Sinai South Nassau’s maternity team was recently rated “High Performing” in maternity care for 2025-26 by U.S. News & World Report, marking the hospital’s fourth consecutive year receiving the publication’s highest designation. Hospital staff said they were excited to begin the year by supporting growing families and helping to welcome new life into the world. For the Siegler family, the start of 2026 will always be remembered as the year they

Courtesy Mount Sinai South Nassau

East Islip residents Allison Siegler, her husband and Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Labor, Delivery and Maternity staff celebrated the birth of James Siegler, the hospital’s first baby born in 2026 at 2:53 a.m., weighing five pounds, 15 ounces. welcomed their son. Surrounded by a care team dedicated to providing a safe and supportive birth experience, the couple began the year with joy. James’ arrival ushered in a hopeful and joyful start to 2026 at Mount Sinai South Nassau, setting the tone for many more births to come. — Abigail Grieco

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I.P. rings in new year with daytime celebration agrieco@liherald.com

The Island Park Public Library rang in the New Year early with a daytime New Year’s Eve celebration, welcoming families for a morning filled with crafts, stories and music. Children and their caregivers took part in a variety of themed activities throughout the library. Attendees created wishing wands to share their hopes for the year ahead and designed festive

party crowns. Families also explored the building during a New Year’s Evethemed scavenger hunt. The celebration included a group story time circle featuring finger plays, stories and songs centered on the holiday. The morning concluded with a balloon drop followed by a dance party, giving children a chance to experience the excitement of the countdown in a familyfriendly setting. The library began hosting daytime New Year’s programs in 2019, offering young children a chance to celebrate

without staying up late. The event was paused for several years due to COVID-19 restrictions before returning this year. Children’s librarians Lauren Wallach and Teresa McCarthy, along with Head of Circulation Tina Gonzalez, started planning the event about six weeks in advance. Preparations included purchasing supplies, organizing the stories, songs and activities and promoting the program. Volunteers from Long Beach High School assisted library staff during the event. Library officials said programs like

the daytime celebration help foster a welcoming atmosphere. “Infants, toddlers, children, parents and grandparents can all participate and all feel welcome in the library,” McCarthy said. “Most check out books and take advantage of other library resources while they’re here.” By hosting early celebrations, the library gives children the excitement of a New Year’s Eve countdown while allowing families to return home in time for afternoon naps.

Courtesy Teresa McCarthy

Sophia Gold, 6, left, and Leni Pierre-Noel, 5, made wishing wands for New Year’s wishes at the Island Park Library’s daytime celebration on Dec. 31.

The NYE daytime party concluded with a balloon drop from the ceiling and a dance party which welcomed all attendees to join in.

Infants, toddlers, children, parents and grandparents enjoyed finger plays and songs, while also participating in a large story time circle at the library’s NYE party.

Volunteers from Long Beach High School assisted library staff in helping attendees create celebratory party crowns and wishing wands.

OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD — January 8, 2026

By ABIGIAL GRIECO

NEWS BRIEF

Metro-North and Long Island Rail Road set ridership records in December The Metropolitan Transportation Authority reported that both Metro-North Railroad and the Long Island Rail Road have achieved new post-pandemic ridership records this December. Metro-North’s ridership reached 827,015 customers during the week of Dec. 15, marking the highest recovery week since the pandemic, representing 88 percent of pre-pandemic ridership in December 2019. The weekend of Dec. 20-21 also saw MetroNorth’s strongest weekend performance with 245,638 customers. The LIRR also saw significant ridership gains, with 183,250 riders on Dec. 13, and 152,661 on Dec. 21—both marking the highest post-pandemic weekend figures for the railroad. Rob Free, the president of the LIRR, attributed the increase to improved service and a focus on customer experience. “The LIRR is the best way to travel during the holiday season and year-round,” he said. Metro-North President Justin Vonashek echoed this sentiment, highlighting service

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enhancements like super express and holiday lights trains. “We’re thrilled to see record ridership on Metro-North,” Vonashek said. “From Super Express trains to delighting customers with our holiday lights trains, we’re always finding new ways to enhance the rider experience. We look forward to welcoming even more riders in the new year and encourage everyone to take advantage of the new discounts taking effect in January.” The surge in ridership comes as both railroads maintain record-breaking on-time performance, consistently near 97 percent in 2025. Customer satisfaction is also at alltime highs, with LIRR reaching 81 percent and Metro-North at 85 percent. Both railroads will implement new ticketing policies starting on Jan. 4, including universal reduced fares for seniors and those with disabilities, expanded family fare options, and new flexible ticketing choices designed to enhance the customer experience and save money. — Brian Kacharaba

CRIME WATCH

Queens man arrested in Oceanside, officers injured An Oceanside traffic stop on New Year’s Day led to the arrest of a Queens man and injuries to two Nassau County police officers, authorities said. Officers stopped a vehicle around 9 p.m. on Jan. 1 on Daly Boulevard involving a 2025 Jeep. During the investigation, officers determined the vehicle had been reported stolen, police said. The man allegedly resisted arrest, resulting in injuries to two officers at the scene. Both officers were taken to a nearby hospital treatment, police said; _________

MACSTEVE DIAZ

their conditions were not immediately released. Police identified the man as Macsteve Diaz, 26, of Queens. He was charged with seconddegree assault, criminal possession of stolen property, illegal possession of a vehicle identification number, resisting arrest and multiple vehicle and traffic law violations. Diaz was arraigned on Jan. 2, at First District Court, at 99 Main St. in Hempstead. — Abigail Grieco

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MAIN PHONE: (516) 569-4000 ■ WEB SITE: www.liherald.com/oceanside ■ E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: oceaneditor@liherald.com ■ EDITORIAl DEPARTMENT: Ext. 265 E-mail: oceaneditor@liherald.com ■ SUBSCRIPTIONS: Press ”7” E-mail: subscriptions@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4942 ■ ClASSIFIED ADVERTISING: Ext. 286 E-mail: ereynolds@liherald.com Fax: (516) 622-7460 ■ DISPlAY ADVERTISING: Ext. 249 E-mail: sales@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4643 ■ PUBlIC NOTICES: Ext. 232 E-mail: legalnotices@liherald.com The Oceanside/Island Park Herald USPS 398610, is published every Thursday by Richner Communications, Inc., 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Periodicals postage paid at Garden City, NY 11530 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster send address changes to Oceanside/Island Park Herald, 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Newsstand Price: $1. Annual Subscription Rates, $52 per year autopay or $65 one-time payment within Nassau County or $76 outside of Nassau County. Copyright © 2026 Richner Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Oceanside sharpening talent on mat By PATRICK MOQUIN sports@liherald.com

JUSTIN ORTIZ Hewlett Senior Basketball ORTIZ ADDED HIS name to Hewlett boys’ basketballl lore Dec. 26 by becoming the eighth player in program history to reach 1,000 career points. He entered the game needing 27 for the milestone and accomplished the feat in the third quarter. A third-year starter with a pair of All-County seasons under his belt, Ortiz averaged 17 points per game as a sophomore and 18.8 last season with 63 threes to rank among Nassau’s leaders.

GAMES TO WATCH Thursday, Jan. 8 Girls Basketball: Carey at Sewanhaka............... 4:30 p.m. Boys Basketball: Sewanhaka at Carey .............. 4:30 p.m. Girls Basketball: Seaford at Lawrence............... 6:45 p.m. Girls Basketball: Plainedge at Kennedy............. 6:45 p.m. Girls Basketball: Calhoun at Long Beach .......... 6:45 p.m. Girls Basketball: Clarke at South Side .............. 6:45 p.m. Boys Basketball: South Side at Clarke .............. 6:45 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 9 Boys Basketball: V.S. South at V.S. North................ 5 p.m. Boys Basketball: Lawrence at Seaford ................... 5 p.m. Boys Basketball: Carle Place at West Hemp........... 5 p.m. Girls Basketball: Mineola at Lynbrook ............... 6:45 p.m. Girls Basketball: V.S. South at V.S. North ........... 6:45 p.m. Girls Basketball: Hicksville at Oceanside .......... 6:45 p.m. Boys Basketball: Island Trees at Malverne.............. 7 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 10 Boys Basketball: Division at Mepham .............11:45 a.m. Girls Basketball: Syosset at Baldwin ...............11:45 a.m. Girls Basketball: East Meadow at F-Dale ........11:45 a.m. Girls Basketball: Freeport at V.S. Central .........11:45 a.m. Boys Basketball: Uniondale at Massapequa .......... 1 p.m. Boys Basketball: Baldwin at Oceanside ................. 1 p.m.

Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete” High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a winter sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.

Coming off one of the best seasons in the history of Oceanside wrestling, coach Brian Schoenfelder is hopeful that a new core of seniors can propel the Sailors to even greater heights in the coming year. It could be yet another step forward for a program that has been on the rise for several years. “Coming to this year, it’s a little question mark,” Schoenfelder said. “How bad do the kids want it and how hard are they going to work to prove that? And they’re doing it so far. It’s a long season and a short sample size, but they’re just putting it all in. They know nothing’s going to come easy.” At the end of the 2024-25 season, Oceanside relayed a runner-up finish in Conference 1B to finish fifth in the Nassau Division I Championships with 146.5 points, a personal-best result for the Sailors. They enjoyed this success with the help of five All-County wrestlers, another school record. But from that core of five wrestlers, only one has returned to compete for the Sailors. Expectations are high for junior Chace Morris, who has moved up to 150 pounds and is expected to continue competing at a state-qualifying level while his teammates build a new core around him. “On paper and by accolades, Chace is the best wrestler on the team now,” Schoenfelder said. “It used to be a bunch of kids, but now the difference is, the lineup is more balanced. We don’t have the accolades like last year, but we definitely have a more balanced approach, a lot of kids hungry to get those accolades.” With one iron-sharp contender in his lineup, Schoenfelder has employed a common practice technique for Oceanside, carefully pairing Morris with teammates in training in an attempt to better prepare them. His most frequent training partner has been senior Michael Scotto, a “good” wrestler quickly “becoming a great wrestler” in his coach’s eyes.

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Junior Chace Morris, left, is the Sailors’ most-accomplished wrestler and a county title contender at 150 pounds. Behind Mor ris and Scotto, who Schoenfelder believes can both end up as top-six wrestlers in their weight classes, juniors Mark Gorny and Kieran Harrington are expected to fill out an improving lineup for Oceanside. Like Scotto, both wrestlers had time to prepare behind Oceanside’s last senior class and are now ready to take the initiative. “It’s a crazy thing in wrestling, the team aspect,” Schoenfelder said. “One person wrestling one match shouldn’t transcend in the next match, but it does. When you can have four or five good kids in a row, by the time you get to 157 and you start getting pin, pin, pin, pin,

that’s how we have success as a team. You need those kids together and working together.” Junior Josh Moshkovich and sophomore Luis Estevez could also be ready to take the next step. In the 285-pound weight class, Moshkovich gained plenty of experience and confidence last year, while the 110-pound Estevez has worked hard to become a reliable contributor. Sophomore Anthony Trotta, once weighing less than 90 pounds, is still undersized in the 103-pound weight class, but the young wrestler has earned immense respect for his toughness and rounds out a strong supporting cast.

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OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD — January 8, 2026

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Your HealtH and Wellness — with a focus on neW You for tHe neW Year

By Francesca Coltrera A veritable avalanche of influencers, news headlines, and well-meaning friends and family offer conflicting advice on wellness. If you’re overwhelmed by fads and hype around wellness, read on. Dr. Wynne Armand, a primary care physician at Harvard-affiliated Mass General Brigham health care, recommends simple habits to boost health and wellness in everyday life. Quick fixes and fads may do little for our health, and some even prove harmful. Try to work healthy habits into your daily routines. If you’re a parent, sharing and modeling them can help children and teens embrace wellness, too. Bring mindfulness into your day Mindfulness and meditation are overlapping techniques proven to ease stress, improve sleep, and enhance concentration. “Anxiety and stress are very common issues in my practice,” says Armand. Worrying too often about the past or future is rarely helpful. The too-frequent release of stress hormones affects our heart, brain, and sleep, all of which have downstream consequences for our health. Practicing mindfulness — whether simply by appreciating birds and plants on a walk in green space, or using apps like Calm and Headspace — anchors you in the present moment. This can calm anxiety, improve focus and concentration, and amp up positive feelings. When applied to eating, mindfulness may help with weight loss by encouraging people to slow down to savor meals. Meditation knits together body and mind by focusing

on sensations, such as breathing, images, or a repeated word or phrase. One exercise that works equally well for adults and younger people is box breathing. The rhythmic pattern of breathing helps regulate the nervous system, reining in anxiety and stress, lowering heart rate and blood pressure, and boosting focus. The rhythmic pattern of breathing helps regulate the nervous system, reining in anxiety and stress, lowering heart rate and blood pressure, and boosting focus. Prioritize sleep Sleeping poorly can leave you feeling awful — snappish, foggy-headed, slow moving — and take a toll on your health over time. By contrast, getting sufficient, restful sleep supports the immune system, helps control weight, and aids physical well-being, mental well-being, memory, judgment,

Eat real, whole foods A wealth of evidence shows that diets rich in vegetables, fruits, legumes and pulses like lentils, peas, and beans, and minimally processed foods support longevity and vitality. Plant-based and plant-forward diets are better for our health: research links them to lower rates of heart disease, certain cancers, and chronic illnesses like diabetes and obesity. They’re better for the planet, too. Move more, sit less The hurry of life often short-circuits opportunities to be active. So, swap out the thought “What saves me time?” for a healthier one: “What keeps me mobile, flexible, and functioning well within my world?” Polishing off exercise requirements through a 30-minute block once daily is great, but you may reap even greater health benefits if you seek out ways to stay active throughout the day. Photo: Adopting a healthier way of life moves us beyond quick fixes and fads

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Timeless habits for better health

and other cognitive functions. It may even extend longevity. But how much sleep do you need? That varies with age and other factors: most adults need at least seven hours per night, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, sleep quality (a measure of refreshing, uninterrupted sleep versus tossing and turning) may be more important than nailing seven hours. And it’s worth noting that too much sleep — nine hours or more in one analysis of multiple studies — is linked to higher risk for early deaths, too. Be aware that sleep patterns and circadian rhythms that help rule sleep and wakefulness change over time. Good sleep hygiene can help. Tips include getting regular exercise, setting regular bedtime and wake-up times and turning off screens at least 30 minutes before going to bed.

OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD — January 8, 2026

Go the distance

January 8, 2026 — OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD

Law enforcement mental health bill signed By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com

Joined by police leaders and bill sponsors, Gov. Kathy Hochul signed the Lieutenant Joseph Banish Mental Health Act into law on Dec. 18. Responding to an increase in suicides and post-traumatic stress disorder among police officers, the bill will establish new confidentiality requirements for law enforcement during peer-to-peer counseling sessions. Named in memory of State Police Lt. Joseph Banish, who died by suicide in 2008, the legislation is intended to reduce the stigma associated with mental health among first responders while ensuring that counseling communications are protected. “Protecting New York’s first responders and ensuring they are well-equipped with support to successfully fulfill their duties is an essential part of my public safety mission,” Hochul said in a statement. “Law enforcement officers who protect our communities during times of crisis deserve counseling services that are tailored to their unique experiences and conducted with discretion. By strengthening these programs, we are ensuring safe settings for honest conversations to improve the mental health and well-being of our first responders.” Sponsored by Assemblywoman Judy Griffin and State Sen. James Skoufis, the bill passed both houses of the Legislature last June. “I was honored to carry this legislation to establish a formal peer-to-peer

Courtesy Assemblywoman Judy Griffin’s office

Gov. Kathy Hochul was joined by police leaders and bill sponsors as she signed the Lieutenant Joseph Banish Mental Health Act. mental health program for our police,” Griffin said in a news release. “This bill is about supporting the men and women who protect us every day by ensuring that they have the mental health resources they need to effectively serve communities across the state.” Suicide rates for police officers are more than 50 percent higher than the public at large, and the new law will provide them with confidential peer support counseling with trained police officers serving as support specialists.

“Police officers put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities, yet too often they do not receive the essential mental health support they need by nature of their profession,” Griffin stated “This can exact a toll, both professionally and personally.” Throughout 2025, Hochul highlighted new resources to improve first responders’ mental health. They included a Responder Wellness Program Primer, intended to help public-safety agencies develop and enhance

their wellness programs; a video on the unique mental health needs of first responders; and the launch of a new website, “Responder Wellness.” “We ask law enforcement officers to show up on our worst days, and when their own trauma and grief in the aftermath of danger, violence, and even death goes unprocessed, it can exacerbate and disrupt all areas of life,” Skoufis said in a statement. “Giving officers support and resources from trusted colleagues with full confidentiality balances privacy with responsibility, and when officers receive the help they need, our communities are safer for it.” The legislation comes after the state’s initial First Responder Mental Health Needs Assessment presented in Feb. 2025, which found that more than half of public safety workers experience high levels of stress, burnout and mental health challenges. The bill is intended to be a step toward reducing the risk for law enforcement officers across state. “Police officers have three times more of a chance of dying by suicide than by getting killed on the job,” Thomas Shevlin, president of the Nassau County Police Benevolent Association, said in a news release. “We are human and witness things that no one should have to see, hear or smell, and we need to allow our brave officers the chance to get the help they need.” For more information on the state’s Responder Wellness program, visit DHSES. NY.gov/Responder-Wellness.

Paychecks rise as minimum wage increases By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

New York state’s minimum wage increased on Jan. 1, marking the third straight year of increases. In New York City, Westchester and Long Island, the wage increased to $17 per hour, and in the rest of the state to $16 per hour. This adjustment of $.50 per hour is part of a planned series of increases, which will be indexed to inflation starting in 2027. “From the tip of Montauk to Niagara Falls, this increase reflects our promise to put money back in New Yorkers pockets and uplift our hard workers,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “By continuing these Courtesy Metro investments and indexing wages to inflation, we’re making sure New Yorkers can Minimum wage increased in New York for the third year in a keep up with rising costs by taking home row. The wage increased to $17 per hour, with the state lookmore money.” ing to help workers make ends meet. “As costs rise, wages must keep pace,” The state’s Department of Labor is working to eduState Sen. Jessica Ramos, who represents parts of cate employers and employees about wage changes. It Queens and is chair of the committee on labor, said. “Indexing the minimum wage to inflation was not radi- offers free education seminars to help employers better cal, it was responsible, and it’s how we make sure that understand labor laws and ensure compliance. Workers can visit the Department of Labor’s miniwork is rewarded with dignity today and in the years mum wage webpage for more information, including ahead.” an interactive minimum wage lookup tool to verify The ability for the state to increase its minimum wages traces its roots back to a 2023 agreement their correct pay rate. If you earn minimum wage and between Hochul and the state legislature. Minimum do not see an increase reflected in your paycheck, wage wage was also boosted by $0.50 per hour in 2024 and complaints can be filed at DOL.NY.gov or by calling 2025. Starting in 2027, the minimum wage will increase (833) 910-4378. “With costs rising, this increase is crucial for workannually at a rate determined by the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers ers looking to make ends meet,” New York State for the Northeast Region — the most accurate regional Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon measure of inflation. said.

Minimum Wage: What to Know New rates as of Jan. 1 ■ $17 per hour: New York City, Long Island and Westchester ■ $16 per hour: Rest of New York state How much did it increase? ■ Wages rose by 50 cents per hour, marking the third straight annual increase. What’s next? ■ Beginning in 2027, New York’s minimum wage will be indexed to inflation, adjusting annually based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers. Need to check your pay? ■ Visit the New York State Department of Labor’s minimum wage webpage for an interactive lookup tool to confirm your correct rate. Not seeing the increase? ■ Workers can file a wage complaint at DOL.NY.gov ■ Or call (833) 910-4378

Patients to face higher costs, limited options

Courtesy Mount Sinai South Nassau

Thousands of Mount Sinai physicians are set to leave the Anthem insurance network in the new year, after contract negotiations broke down. providers. “These negotiations are about more than rates,” Mount Sinai said in its statement. “They are about access to timely, high-quality care.” Anthem, whose parent company, Elevance Health, reported more than $6 billion in profit in 2024, rejects those claims. The insurer says that Mount Sinai is demanding a 50 percent increase over three years, which would add more than $1 billion to regional health care costs. Anthem provided examples of what it claimed the increases could mean for patients, including $10,500 more for childbirth, $52,000 more for open-heart surgery and $8,500 more for knee replacements.

Mount Sinai disputes those figures. “Your definite out-of-pocket cost is going to be greater,” James Donnelly, of the nonprofit Pulse Center for Patient Safety, said. “Continuity of care can help, but those protections are limited.” Continuity-of-care provisions can allow patients undergoing treatment for serious conditions — such as cancer, pregnancy, terminal illness or scheduled surgeries — to temporarily continue seeing their Mount Sinai doctors at in-network rates. Those protections typically last about 90 days. Mount Sinai says it has attempted to coordinate continuity-of-care approvals, but claims Anthem controls the process, and has not provided clear guidance. Anthem

says it is contacting eligible members directly and helping them through the transition. Under New York law, hospitals must remain in-network for 60 days after a contract expires, offering short-term protection for patients. However, that clock is already running. Medicaid and Essential Plan members may have more options. Medicaid enrollees can change plans within the first 90 days, while Essential Plan members can switch insurers at any time during the year to maintain access to Mount Sinai providers. Mount Sinai is urging employer-sponsored plan members to contact their human resources departments and Anthem directly to advocate for a resolution. Anthem encourages members to review their benefits and use its online tools to locate in-network providers. Despite months of negotiations, there is no immediate sign of a deal. “We are committed to reaching an agreement,” Anthem said in a statement, adding that it cannot agree to “extreme price increases” that would raise premiums and out-of-pocket costs. Mount Sinai, a nonprofit system, said it reinvests revenue into patient care, education and research and “cannot subsidize a for-profit insurer’s margins at the expense of patient access.” As the March 1 deadline approaches, thousands of Long Islanders are left waiting, hoping negotiations resume before their options narrow even further.

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OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD — January 8, 2026

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

accepts our insurance,” she added. Under state and federal law, emergency care must still be covered at in-network rates regardless of contract status. However, non-emergency care provided out of network can result in significantly higher outof-pocket expenses, including increased deductibles and coinsurance. Mount Sinai officials warned that many patients might pay more to continue seeing their doctors, especially those who do not qualify for continuity-of-care protections. The health system also disputes Anthem’s claims that alternative in-network providers offer comparable quality at lower cost. “Almost all the alternatives Anthem promotes are more expensive than Mount Sinai without offering similar quality care,” Mount Sinai officials said in a statement. Anthem disputes that assertion, saying that “every other major health system in New York remains in our network, including NYU Langone Health, New York-Presbyterian, Northwell Health and Montefiore Health System.” At the center of the dispute are sharply conflicting claims about costs. Mount Sinai says it sought single-digit annual rate increases over a three-year period, and argues that Anthem currently pays it as much as 35 percent less than other major New York health systems. Mount Sinai also claims that Anthem owes more than $450 million for care already delivered, accusing the insurer of delayed payments and administrative denials that burden patients and

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January 8, 2026 — OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD

STEPPING OUT

Fettucine with Brussels Sprouts and Cranberries

Hearty Beef Stew with Roasted Vegetables

Rustic Roasted Winter Vegetable Chowder

New year, fresh flavors Your kitchen beckons By Karen Bloom

he holidays may be behind us, but winter’s cozy rhythm is in full force. January invites us to nest at home and gather in the kitchen, where comforting, flavorful dishes warm both body and spirit — and gently set the tone for healthier habits in the new year. It’s the perfect time to experiment “Top Chef”–style, playing with bold flavors and seasonal ingredients. After all, few pleasures rival a hearty, nourishing meal shared on a cold winter evening.

additional 1-2 minutes, or until most of the liquid is absorbed. (If pasta is too dry, add reserved cooking water a tablespoon at a time.) Season with salt and pepper and serve garnished with Parmesan cheese and reserved bacon.

Consider adding these recipes to your repertoire.

• 1 cup cubed butternut squash • 1 cup cubed carrots • 1 cup cubed parsnips • 1 cup cubed sweet potatoes • 1 cup cubed onion • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided • 1 1/2 pounds boneless beef sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes • 3/4 cup chicken stock • 3 bay leaves • 1/2 teaspoon thyme leaves • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, coarsely ground • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/4 cup dry red wine Preheat oven to 425°F. Toss vegetables with 1 tablespoon of the oil. Arrange in single layer on large baking sheet. Roast 20 minutes or until vegetables are golden brown. Meanwhile, heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil in large skillet on medium-high heat. Brown beef in batches. Return all beef to skillet. Add roasted vegetables, stock, wine, salt, pepper, thyme and bay leaves. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low; simmer 10 minutes or until sauce is slightly thickened. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Fettucine with Brussels Sprouts and Cranberries A satisfying plate of pasta is especially welcoming on a cold winter day. • 4 slices bacon (approximately), cut into 1/2-inch pieces • 2 cups (about 12 ounces) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and vertically halved • 1 medium onion, sliced • 1 cup chicken broth • 1⁄4 cup dry vermouth • 1⁄2 cup dried cranberries, coarsely chopped • 6 ounces fettuccine (or another long pasta like spaghetti) • 2 ounces. Parmesan cheese, coarsely shredded • Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste Slowly cook bacon in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat until fat is rendered and bacon is crisp, about 7 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels; set bacon aside. Increase heat to medium-high, arrange Brussels sprouts cut-side down in the rendered bacon fat and cook, without stirring, until sprouts begin to crisp and brown on the cut face, about 2 minutes. Add the onion and toss to combine with the sprouts; cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the broth, vermouth, and dried cranberries, scraping up any fond from the bottom of the skillet, and bring to a fast simmer. Cover, reduce heat to medium, and cook until the sprouts soften, about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, cook the pasta until just al dente, reserving 1/4 cup of the cooking water. Transfer pasta to the skillet with the sprouts and liquid and toss continuously over medium-high heat for an

Hearty Beef Stew with Roasted Vegetables This classic stick-to-your-ribs stew is a terrific winter warmer-upper, served with a hearty bread or corn bread.

Rustic Roasted Winter Vegetable Chowder A rustic, flavorful soup can be flavorful centerpiece to healthy, satisfying meal. This filling soup is packed with vegetables. • 1/2 small butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch dice (about 2 cups) • 3 medium parsnips, peeled, cut into 1-inch dice (about 1 cup ) • 1 medium sweet potato, peeled, cut into 1-inch dice (about 1 cup) • 2 medium carrots, peeled, cut into 1-inch dice

(about 1 cup) • 1/2 fennel bulb, quartered & sliced thin (about 1 cup) • 1/2 teaspoon plus 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt or coarse sea salt • 2 tablespoons plus 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided • 1 medium onion, diced (about 2 cups) • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour • 4 cups vegetable broth • 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled, cut into 3/4inch dice (about 2 cups) 4-5 fresh thyme sprigs • 1 cup milk or unsweetened plain almond milk • Additional salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste • More pepper and thyme leaves for garnish Heat oven to 400 F. In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash, parsnips, sweet potatoes, carrots, and fennel with 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt. Spread in a single layer on a large baking sheet and roast until tender and browned in places, about 40 minutes, turning a couple of times while roasting. While the veggies are roasting, prepare the base of the soup. To a large saucepan over low heat, add 3 tablespoons olive oil. Add the onion along with a pinch of salt and a bit of pepper, then cook, stirring occasionally, until soft, about 10 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for 3 minutes, stirring constantly. Stir in the vegetable broth. Add the potatoes and thyme. Bring to a boil over medium heat then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes or until potatoes are soft. Remove from heat. Pick out the thyme stems and discard. Stir in the roasted vegetables. Carefully transfer about 3 cups of the chowder to the pitcher of a blender. Puree until smooth. Return the pureed mixture to the pot and stir to combine. The soup should be thick, rich, and creamy. Stir in the milk. Place the pot back on the burner, and, with the heat on medium-low, return to a simmer, stirring often to prevent burning. Taste and add additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve garnished with an additional turn of cracked pepper and thyme leaves.

Hailed by Rolling Stone as the “world’s premier soft-rock party band,” Yacht Rock Revue invites audiences on a nostalgic voyage through the melodies of the ‘70s and ‘80s. Since their humble beginnings in 2007, Atlanta, Ga.-based YRR has emerged as a pivotal figure in revitalizing yacht rock, sharing stages with icons and garnering a devoted following of “Anchorheads.” Inspired by soft rock’s golden era, the 10-piece band has mastered the art of recreating the breezy laid-back tunes that defined a generation. From the sun-kissed melodies of Steely Dan and Michael McDonald to Hall & Oates’ velvety harmonies, their repertoire spans beloved hits that evoke memories of palm trees, ocean breezes and carefree summers. But Yacht Rock Revue isn’t just a tribute band. Their original compositions are a modern ode to the genre, capturing the essence of those bygone days while infusing it with a fresh and invigorating twist.

Thursday through Saturday, Jan. 8-10, 8 p.m. $82, $60.25, $49.25 $37.25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

V is for Violet Families are welcome to Nassau County Museum of Art for a special storytime with children’s author Valerie Goldstein. During the interactive reading of her inspiring picture book “Violet’s Victory!”, young audiences will follow Violet — a determined girl with lavender hair — as she discovers her inner strength, perseverance as she chases her dreams. Violet wants to participate in Sports Day at her school. She walks with crutches for support, which she calls her “magic sticks.” Violet knows she will not be able to keep up with her classmates using crutches. Then she spots a purple handcycle! With determination and perseverance she participates in Sports Day. Every hue of purple is mentioned and makes for a perfect art connection. Following the reading, children and caregivers can meet the author during a book signing and participate in a handson craft inspired by Violet’s journey. Designed to spark imagination and open the door to meaningful conversations, the session celebrates resilience, self-belief and the joy of trying something new. Saturday, Jan. 10, 1:30-3 p.m. $20 adult, $10 members and children. Register at nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337.

OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD — January 8, 2026

Yacht Rock Revue

January 8, 2026 — OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD JAN

Elated Eagles

CALENDAR

and generations of immigrant history, Iovino explores the moments, places and people that define a life well lived within reach of New York’s lights and limitless possibility.

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: 30 Davison Ave., Oceanside • Time: 1-3 p.m. • Contact: oceansidelibrary.com or (516) 766-2360

JAN

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

JAN

Island Park BOE meets

The Island Park Board of Education convenes to discuss district operations, upcoming programs and budget priorities for the school year. Stay up to date on district matters. • Where: 99 Radcliffe Road, Island Park • Time: 7 p.m. • Contact: (516) 434-2600

JAN

JRF Fundraiser

Dine for a cause at NAYA during a special sponsorship opportunity; 20 percent of proceeds will be donated to the Jon Raugalas Foundation. Enjoy bold flavors, fresh ingredients and meaningful impact — every meal helps support the mission and honor Jon’s legacy. • Where: NAYA, 3199 Long Beach Road, Oceanside • Time: 3-9 p.m.

Oceanside BOE meets

Oceanside Board of Education meets to review district programs, staffing updates and ongoing budget planning. With a budget workshop. • Where: School #6 Auditorium, 145 Merle Ave., Oceanside • Time: 7:30 p.m. • Contact: (516) 678-1200

JAN

Newly signed to Blue Note Records, Los Angeles-based pianist and composer Paul Cornish is making waves as one of the most innovative new voices in jazz. Presented in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center, Tilles Center Atrium becomes an intimate lounge to showcase this exciting up-and-coming jazz talent. Cornish, who strives to inspire freedom and collaboration in his music and community, has performed extensively across the globe with such notable artists as Joshua Redman, Louis Cole, Mark Guiliana, and more. With Jonathan Pinson (drums) and Jermaine Paul (bass) he’ll perform selections from his Blue Note Records debut album “You’re Exaggerating. “ A Stanford Jazz Workshop alumnus, Cornish blends deep jazz roots with bold, forward-thinking vision, transforming tradition into an electrifying and inspiring musical journey. A standout talent from Houston’s renowned High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, Cornish went on to earn degrees from USC and the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz at UCLA. Now a member of Joshua Redman’s band, he has toured the • Where: LIU Post campus, 720 world and was featured on Redman’s NPR Tiny Desk Concert. “Paul is one of the most Northern Blvd., Brookville innovative pianists to come along in quite a while,” says Blue Note President Don • Time: 7:30 p.m. Was. “He is the next purveyor of that hallowed legacy.” Don’t miss this opportunity to • Contact: tillescenter.org or witness Cornish’s extraordinary artistry and boundless creativity live. (516) 299-3100

Island Park Village Board meets

The Island Park Village Board convenes for its regular public meeting to discuss ongoing municipal projects, budget updates and community concerns. Residents are invited to attend and

Visit Long Island Children’s Museum for a workshop honoring Martin Luther King, Jr. Families will learn about MLK beyond his “I Have a Dream” speech and gain a better understanding of his impact on the civil rights movement. Also participate in a gallery walk of images from that era and then create a bell to “let freedom ring.” The program is part of the AdvoKids monthly series that focuses on teaching kids how to advocate for themselves and others and teaching adults how to support their kids’ advocacy efforts. For ages 5 and up. Free with museum admission, but tickets required. • Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

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participate. • Where: Village Hall, 127 Long Beach Road, Island Park • Time: 7 p.m.

Little Learners Art Lab

Each week in this engaging workshop, participants are introduced to hands-on materials, artmaking, and inspiration from artists and techniques. Young kids, ages 2-5, build critical thinking skills, expand vocabulary, and support imaginations as they play, create and explore. $4 with museum admission. • Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: 11:30 a.m.-noon • Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

JAN

Paul Cornish Trio

Tunes with Acoustifunk

The acoustic duo Acoustifunk appears at EGP Land & Sea. Enjoy improvisational jams of some of your favorites as well as many deep cuts from your favorite artists. • Where: 2 Pettit Place, Island Park • Time: 7-10 p.m. • Contact: (516) 544-2879

JAN

Comic showcase

Known for their elite brand of clever comedy, The Ivy League of Comedy visits the Madison Theatre. You’ve heard their brilliant comedic voices on late-night television and Comedy Central and on the club circuit. The lineup features Keith Alberstadt, who’s playful personality radiates on stage. He mixes light-hearted sarcasm with a southern charm and has become a favorite at comedy clubs and theaters. Also Clayton Fletcher, who’s heard every day on Sirius/XM Radio’s Laugh USA, Blue Collar Comedy, and Jamie Foxx’s Foxxhole stations. He has been featured on Hulu-TV’s “Comedy Brew,” MSNBC’s “Your Business,” ESPN’s “World Series of Poker,” and Comcast-TV’s “Who’s Laughing Now?” He allows us to see the world through the eyes of the son of a poker-playing mom and a jazz musician dad. And Jane Condon, mom of two boys, has been dubbed “an uppercrust Roseanne.” She loves to tell stories about her adventures (mostly survival tales) with her husband and kids. • Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre Time: 8 p.m. • Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444

Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out

Long Island Children’s Museum’s welcomes all to the opening of its new exhibit. Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out provides interactive experiences that help visitors learn about the important role emotions, memory and imagination play in our everyday lives. Hands-on and digital experiences focus on the five emotions featured in the film: Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust and Fear. Kids learn to recognize emotions and explore ways that we express and manage our own emotions. With opening weekend activities to celebrate the arrival of this traveling exhibit. • Where: Museum Row, Garden City • Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

Let Freedom Ring with MLK

EGP Oceanside Inauguration Celebration

Support the red, white and blue. With an open bar and passed apps. • Where: EGP Oceanside, 2823 Long Beach Road, Oceanside • Time: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. • Contact: (516) 766-9547

JAN

Sons of Skynyrd

Sons of Skynyrd, a Lynyrd Skynyrd, tribute band is at DOX in Island Park! SOS will be playing two extended sets of Skynyrd and some southern rock classics as well. •Where: DOX, 10 Broadway, Island Park • Time: 7 p.m. • Contact: (516) 992-2222

Having an event?

JAN

Tony Iovino Poetry Book Launch

Oceanside Library hosts poet Tony Iovino. “From the Land of Sidewalks and Lawns” invites readers into his reflections on suburban life, heritage and the enduring pull of the American dream. Through vivid, nostalgic poems shaped by postwar suburbia

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.

THINGS TO KNOW AT THE OCEANSIDE LIBRARY

By ABIGAIL GRIECO agrieco@liherald.com

The Oceanside Library is kicking off the new year with a lineup of January programs designed to inspire, entertain and encourage personal growth for patrons of all ages. From thoughtful book discussions to playful all-day activities and reflective wellness workshops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this month.

Find inspiration at a cookbook club and “Change the Recipe”

Go on a “quacky” scavenger hunt for National Rubber Duck Day

A fresh perspective on personal growth and leadership takes center stage during the Cookbook Club’s January selection, “Change the Recipe,” by chef and humanitarian José Andrés. Rather than a traditional cookbook, the title blends storytelling with life lessons, highlighting how creativity, adaptability and compassion can lead to meaningful change both in the kitchen and beyond. Community members are invited to gather from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 11, in Community Room 2 for a thoughtful discussion. Participants will reflect on themes of resilience, generosity and embracing change, making the program especially relevant for those setting new goals for the year. Readers of all backgrounds are welcome.

Rubber ducks in clever disguises will be hidden throughout the library on Tuesday, Jan. 13, for an all-day scavenger hunt celebrating National Rubber Duck Day. Patrons can pick up a scavenger hunt sheet at the front desk before beginning their search, which starts in the lobby and continues throughout the building. Once all the disguised ducks have been spotted and marked off, completed sheets can be turned in for a chance to win a giant rubber duck. This event is open to all ages and offers families, students and casual visitors a lighthearted reason to explore every corner of the library.

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A quieter, more introspective experience will be offered during Journaling and Meditation for Emotional Healing, a guided workshop led by Danielle Bertoli. Designed as a supportive and welcoming space, the gathering encourages participants to slow down, breathe and reconnect with themselves through intentional writing and meditation practices. Running from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 28, the session includes guided meditation, custom work and journal prompts, as well as group discussions that foster meaningful connection. Topics may include managing stress and anxiety, cultivating self-worth, building emotional resilience and embracing vulnerability. Participants are invited to come as they are and leave feeling lighter, clearer and more grounded as they continue into the new year.

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12 HOLIDAY WINES

Reflect and recharge with journaling and meditation

OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD — January 8, 2026

Activities to look out for at the library for all ages this month

January 8, 2026 — OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD

Eagle Scouts honored for leadership and service CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

D’Ambrosio said. “They go out there and start helping people. They’re not concerned about themselves, but about the community and its outreach.” State Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick echoed those remarks, noting the broader impact of Scouting’s principles. “If everyone lived by the Scout motto, our world would be a better place,” Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick said, adding that the three new Eagle Scouts now serve as role models for younger members of the troop. “They have shown what you can accomplish when you stick to your path and have your families behind you to support you.” Town of Hempstead Councilwoman Laura Ryder and Nassau County Legislator Patrick Mullaney were also in attendance to show their support. A central portion of the ceremony focused on the “Trail to Eagle,” a traditional presentation in which the Scoutmaster and assistant Scoutmaster reviewed each rank achieved on the path to Eagle Scout — Scout, Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life and Eagle — lighting candles and explaining the growth, responsibility and

Abigail Grieco/Herald Photos

Attending last Saturday’s Eagle Scout ceremony were, from left, Nassau County Legislator Patrick Mullaney, Troop 230 Scoutmaster Harold Gerry, Scouts Maxwell Greenberg, 18, Connor Jaffe, 18 and Nicholas Bozek, 18, State Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick and Hempstead Town Councilwoman Laura Ryder. leadership required at each stage. The program then shifted to recognize the families of the honorees. Parents joined their sons at the front of the room, where each Scout presented pins to both their mother and father. Gerry explained that the mother’s pin symbolizes comfort and

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 01/21/2026 at 9:30 A.M. & 2:00 P.M. to consider the following applications and appeals: -----------------------------THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M. 32/26. OCEANSIDE William S. & Eileen Verwys, Renewal of grant for use variance to maintain 2-family dwelling., N/E cor. Bungalow Pl. & Lawson Blvd., a/k/a 3 Bungalow Pl. 35/26. 37/26. OCEANSIDE - Kevin Remsen & Edward Remsen, Jr., Immediate Family Res. (2nd Kitchen); Variance, rear yard setback, maintain wood deck attached to dwelling (gazebo to be removed); Special exception to maintain shed exceeding horizontal maximum

with lot area occupied & side yard variances & not permitted in the side yard., N/s Stevens St., 51.125’ E/o Stewart Ave., a/k/a 2910 Stevens St. 40/26. OCEANSIDE Kenneth Grassano, Variance, lot area occupied, construct 1-story addition and deck with stairs, all attached to dwelling (demolish existing deck and steps)., S/s Knight St., 360’ E/o Carpenter Ave., a/k/a 3502 Knight St. 43/26. OCEANSIDE Ken Kobbe, Variances, lot area occupied, side yard, side yards aggregate, maintain 1-story addition & roof over deck attached to dwelling., W/s 1st St., 110’ S/o Cortland Ave., a/k/a 3294 1st St. THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 2:00 P.M. 52/26. 53/26. OCEANSIDE - Mount Sinai South Nassau, Special exception for proposed valet booth in conjunction with hospital; Install 2nd, detached, illuminated, double-faced monument sign setback 5’ from Oceanside Rd., S/E cor. Merrick Rd. & Oceanside Rd., a/k/a 1 Healthy Way ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE

BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550. This notice is only for new cases in Oceanside within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it. 157638

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. MONICA CORNING A/K/A MONICA FUSCO, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Amending Caption, Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 31, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 26, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 17 Marina Road, Island Park, NY 11558. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Village of Island Park, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 43, Block 3 and Lot 347. Approximate amount of judgment is $660,228.77 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 604918/2023. Cash will not be accepted. John Riordan, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 157440 PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES… To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com

encouragement, while the father’s represents guidance and advice. “Your parents prodded you, taught you, gave you important lessons and gave you a hard time, when necessary,” Gerry said, addressing the Scouts. “This is as much of an honor to them as it is to their sons.” Each Eagle Scout then spoke briefly about his Scouting experience and Eagle project — the community service requirement that stands as the capstone of the Eagle rank. Bozek began Scouting as a Tiger Cub with Pack 230 at age 6 in 2013 and bridged to Troop 230 in 2018. He remained active until his 18th birthday, serving in leadership roles, including troop librarian, webmaster, patrol leader and assistant senior patrol leader. For his Eagle project, Bozek partnered with Florence A. Smith Elementary School in Oceanside to transform an underused section of the School No. 2 playground. After surveying students, he installed drainage mats and built a gaga ball pit — a dodgeball-like game played in an octagonal pit — to create a safe recreational space, cleaned up the surrounding area and added more than 60 books to the outdoor book library. Bozek’s project involved 37 volunteers and 185 hours of planning, fundraising and construction. A 2025 graduate of Oceanside High School, Bozek is now attending Norwich University in Vermont, majoring in civil engineering with a minor in construction management. Greenberg began Scouting with Pack 204 in 2014 and joined Troop 230 five years later. He served as patrol leader and Order of the Arrow — the honor society of Scouting

America — representative. His Eagle project supported the Catholic Charities of Long Island’s senior center at St. Anthony’s Church, where he led younger Scouts in constructing three bookshelves for the center’s shared library. The project brought improved organization and storage to the space and included fundraising with the help of local businesses. In total, 13 volunteers contributed 57.5 hours to complete the project. Greenberg, a senior at Oceanside High School and a future Air Force ROTC cadet through the High School Scholarship Program, was recently accepted to Harvard University. Jaffe began Scouting with Pack 230 at age 9 in 2016 and bridged to Troop 230 two years later. He served as troop guide and senior patrol leader. For his project, Jaffe worked with Father Bret Stockdale, SJ, to digitize the history of the Stations of the Cross and statues around St. Anthony’s Church. Jaffe installed QR codes that link to a website explaining the significance of each station and statue, and constructed signposts for outdoor displays. His project took 63 hours to complete and involved 17 volunteers. Jaffe is an electrical engineering major at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York. Gerry closed the ceremony with a Scoutmaster’s Minute. “Each day for the rest of their lives, these men will wake up as Eagle Scouts,” Gerry said. “It is both an honor and an obligation.” Quoting Dr. Suess, he added: “You’re off to great places, today is your day! Your mountain is waiting, so get on your way!”

Michael D’Ambrosio, left, representing Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, praised Maxwell Greenberg, Connor Jaffe and Nicholas Bozek for their commitment to their community while moving up the ranks in Scouting.

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Employment

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EMPLOYMENT Help Wanted 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

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C2 01/08

Homes

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Don’t people understand how important permits are? Q. I notice you write about getting building permits all the time. You would think it was obvious, yet you devote many of your columns to reminding people to get permits. Is this because you find that people don’t already know this? I like the details about buildings that you give, and wish you could write more about that.

A. You would probably be amazed at how often I hear from people wondering if they need a permit for something. Or maybe you wouldn’t. Either way, I started writing this column, which some only see as an advertisement or a blog, in December of 1989, after speaking with a young lady from the Herald who came to speak to my local onte eeper Chamber of Commerce. I was a young architect with a toddler and a kindergartner, both of whom have long since finished college, married and provided my wife, Mindy, and me with grandchildren. When I first spoke to the local editor that day, it was about how I naively started my own practice after leaving an international firm in Manhattan. I realized right away that people are investing the largest amount of what they will ever spend on having a home, and need guidance on how to avoid the pitfalls of shoddy practices, dangerous work done by amateurs and getting ambushed by finding out the work they had done can’t pass a building inspection. She asked me to write a sample column, which wasn’t difficult, since local architects are challenged daily with trying to figure out the best way to get people out of the messes they’re dealing with. I noticed that different building departments had different instruction sheets and different ways of handling the permit process, and that some were extremely helpful, while others basically pushed the responsibility of explaining onto the architect. Some even referred architects, but mostly referred to unlicensed services, which became another problem for many homeowners when plans were incomplete or code-deficient, or where there was only a rubber stamp from an elderly retiree who needed a few extra bucks but wouldn’t be around to answer questions or resolve more technical problems. Basically, the system has no real guidance on whether the most expensive thing homeowners will ever undertake is being done safely, correctly or legally, or whether it will last. I approached bigger building departments about coming up with their own manuals to explain what needs a permit and the best way to get one. Not one, to this day, has either put together such a guide for their department, and not one municipality has ever informed their constituency in one of their newsletters about how important it is to avoid doing things the wrong way, having to go to court, pay a fine, and still have to file for a permit. One government leader even suggested that I write the manual for them. Instead, I write for you. So I try to inform people about how to avoid the hassles for better success — permits and all. Thank you!

Ask The Architect

© 2026 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.

C3 01/08

Market Place • •

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OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD — January 8, 2026

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January 8, 2026 — OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD

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OPINIONS

my Goodman, an intrepid journalist and a Long Island native, explained after a recent screening of a documentary about her that she is “committed to independent media being the oxygen to a democratic society.” The documentary “Steal This Story, Please!” had its premier at the DC/DOX film festival in Washington, D.C., in June, and has been shown at other film festivals, at which it has also received awards. And now she was “here on Long Island!” she exclaimed after KARL the documentary GROSSMAN was featured last month as the opening-night presentation of the Hamptons Doc Fest. Being on Long Island was “really a thrill,” Goodman said following the showing at Bay Street Theater in Sag Harbor. She is a 1975 Bay Shore High School graduate, and after graduating from Harvard with an anthropology degree, she went to work at WBAI, the listener-sponsored radio station in New York City, part of the Pacifica network. It was there that Goodman co-founded and became — and still is — host and

executive producer of “Democracy Now!” It began as a radio program, and subsequently expanded to television, too. Goodman has not only been a journalist on radio and TV, but has authored or co-authored books including “Standing Up to the Madness,” “The Exception to the Rulers,” “The Silenced Majority” and “Democracy Now! Twenty Years Covering the Movements Changing America,” published in 2017. As the website for it then related: “In 1996 Amy Goodman began hosting a show on Pacifica Radio called Democracy Now! to focus on the issues and movements that are too often ignored by the corporate media. Today Democracy Now! is the largest public media collaboration in the U.S., broadcasting on over 1,400 public television and radio stations around the world, with millions accessing it online at democracynow.org.” A documentary is different than a book. I’ve authored books and also written and presented documentaries, and as a journalism professor at SUNY Old Westbury, I taught for years a course called “Documentary: Theories and Techniques.” As John Grierson, the Scottish filmmaker credited with coining the term “documentary” in 1926, explained, a documentary focuses on an “actuality”

— capturing and showcasing the real-life issues of real people, with the “original” people involved, and “original” scenes, conveying a truer picture of reality, he felt, than actors and a set could provide. That’s what the documentary about Goodman does. It starts with her trying to question Wells Griffith, the representative of the first Trump administration at a 2018 United Nations climate conference in Poland. She asks Griffith about President Trump’s claim that climate change is a hoax. Griffith scrambles away up a series of stairways, with Goodman keeping up, and charges her with “harassment.” “A reporter asking you a question,” Goodman responds, “is not harassment.” The documentary then shifts to Goodman’s reporting on the 1991 killing of more than 200 independence protesters in East Timor by Indonesian troops, and shows her and fellow journalist Allan Nairn badly beaten. It includes her arrest, with other journalists, in a police sweep of an anti-war demonstration at the 2008 Republican National Convention in St. Paul, Minn. It presents scenes of Goodman covering Native Americans in Standing Rock, N.D., in 2017, protesting the Dakota Access Pipeline, which brought with it

his 1975 Bay Shore High grad is seen and heard by millions on public media.

the threat of oil spills that could contaminate the Missouri River and the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation’s water supply, as Goodman faced arrest. These are just some of the elements of “Steal This Story, Please!” The archival footage illuminates. The directing, by Carl Deal and Tia Lessin, is superb. The words of Goodman running through it are eloquent. Here’s the description of the documentary in the Hamptons Doc Fest program: “Undeterred by armed soldiers, smooth-talking politicians and riot police, journalist Amy Goodman has reported some of the most consequential stories of our time. ‘Steal This Story, Please!’ is a gripping portrait of Amy, the trailblazer whose unwavering commitment to truth-telling spans three decades of turbulent history. The film is both a call to action and a celebration of resistance, posing the question: What happens to democracy when the press surrenders to power?” In kicking off the 18th year of the Hamptons Doc Fest with the documentary about Goodman, Jacqui Lofaro, the festival’s founder and executive director, spoke of “journalism’s vital role in revealing truth.” Carl Grossman has been an investigative reporter in a variety of media for more than 50 years. He is a professor of journalism at the State University of New York at Old Westbury.

The arts on Long Island are for you

he arts — literature, music, drama, painting, sculpture — form a narrative that helps explain the origins and promises of a society. The arts help us explore our history and imagine our future. While Long Island is well known for health sciences and aerospace technology, it is also a major home for culture — the arts and artists. Think of Jackson Pollock and Lee Krasner, F. Scott Fitzgerald and “The Great Gatsby,” Stanford White and the Gold Coast, Harry Chapin, Chuck D ROBERT A. and Public Enemy, Adelphi SCOTT Professor Paul Moravec’s Pulitzer Prize for Music, Billy Joel and countless others. We are fortunate to have the Long Island Arts Alliance, a regional arts service organization dedicated to strengthening the arts and arts education across Nassau and Suffolk counties. It does this through advocacy for private and public funding, research into best practices and innovations, programming for people of all ages as well as for performance and

recognition, and promoting collaboration across sectors. LIAA partnered with the Center for an Urban Future to report on the condition of the arts and arts education on Long Island. The report, “Sustaining Long Island’s Creative Spark,” offers important insights. Among them are: ■ Arts and culture employment on Long Island grew 21.8 percent from 2014 to 2024, more than five times the region’s overall job growth.

received about 3.2 percent of awards. Yet Long Island is home to 15 percent of New York’s population. In addition, grants to Long Island arts organizations were about 21 percent lower than the statewide average. So Long Island not only receives a small share of the total; it also receives smaller average awards than the rest of the state. The size of grants to Long Island artists, however, increased about 375 percent over 2024. This reflects a small but targeted pilot program that LIAA ran this year. It acted as a fiscal sponsor and outreach coordinator, met one-on-one with artists, reviewed proposals, and helped first-time applicants navigate the process. LIAA submitted 14 artist applications; nine were funded, and all nine were first-time state grant recipients. The pattern is clear: when Long Island has the support and infrastructure to compete, it can bring in substantially more state funding. Without that support, the region continues to be underrepresented. LIAA is now advocating for Nassau and Suffolk to seed a Long Island grants

hat do F. Scott Fitzgerald and Chuck D have in common? Take a guess.

■ Long Island’s resident artist and design workforce increased to over 10,500, even as the under-65 population declined.

■ Nonprofit arts and culture organizations generate $330 million in annual economic activity on Long Island, supporting 4,905 jobs and $81 million in tax revenue for local, state and federal governments. The center found that Long Island’s arts sector is performing at a high level, but state funding lags. For example, Long Island received about 2.5 percent of the total grant funding awarded, and

academy for the arts. The goal is to build a reliable, long-term pipeline of grant-ready organizations and artists so the region finally gets its fair share of state and federal arts funding. The proposed academy would provide training and coaching for artists and small or midsized nonprofits; offer shared tools, templates and guidance for preparing competitive applications; and deliver cohort-based workshops and one-on-one support tied to the New York State Council on the Arts and other public funds. LIAA is seeking an initial investment of $50,000 from each county to scale this model. The results to date suggest that even this modest local investment can unlock hundreds of thousands of additional state dollars for Long Island’s creative sector. To date, more than 50 organizations and individual artists have indicated support for the grants academy concept. LIAA will continue to advocate for this resource at the county and state level. It is imperative to step up advocacy for Long Island arts, and essential for the LIAA to expand its influence in promoting the value of culture to the community. Robert Scott is president emeritus of Adelphi University and the author of “How University Boards Work.”

OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD — January 8, 2026

Documenting a formidable L.I. journalist, Amy Goodman

HERALD

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AbigAil grieco Reporter

Without January pressure, change works better

January 8, 2026 — OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD

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very January, we perform the same ritual. We draw a hard line between who we were and who we intend to become, armed with resolutions that sound decisive and hopeful: lose 20 pounds, save more money, finally become more disciplined. And yet, by February, or sooner, many of these goals quietly dissolve. This isn’t a personal failure. It’s a structural one. Traditional goal-setting asks too much of willpower and too little of reality. It assumes that motivation is stable, that life will cooperate, and that change happens neatly within arbitrary timelines. Behavioral research consistently shows the opposite. Willpower fluctuates. Stress, fatigue and unexpected events derail even the most sincere intentions. A goal like “exercise five times a week” collapses the moment work runs late, a child gets sick or winter motivation disappears. The problem isn’t laziness; it’s designing change by focusing on outcomes instead of behavior. Consider the familiar stories of those who set weight-loss goals. For weeks they follow strict rules, track every calorie and push through workouts fueled by January enthusiasm. Then, when the scale stalls or life intervenes, frustration sets in. The goal becomes a source of shame rather than support, and quitting feels inevitable. Contrast this with someone who

builds a simple system instead: walking for 20 minutes after dinner, cooking the same three nourishing meals during the week, keeping snacks visible and convenient. No dramatic target, no deadline, just repeatable behaviors that fit real life. One approach relies on intensity; the other relies on design. The same pattern shows up at work. Professionals set ambitious annual targets — revenue milestones by the third quarter, promotion by December — tying their sense of progress to metrics largely outside their control. When external conditions change, motivation craters. A systems-based approach looks different: a weekly ritual of deep work, a monthly feedback loop, a principle of saying no to low-leverage tasks. These don’t guarantee a promotion, but they dramatically increase clarity, energy and long-term momentum. What replaces resolutions isn’t a lowering of ambition; it’s a smarter framework. Instead of obsessing over outcomes or focusing on inputs, what’s important are the actions you can show up for even on imperfect days. Instead of intensity, prioritize consistency. Ten minutes completed daily beats an hour attempted sporadically. Instead of perfection, build adaptability. Systems that can bend won’t break when life gets messy. This reframing also forces us to rethink what progress means. In 2026, progress doesn’t look like constant

acceleration or public metrics that reward burnout. It looks like sustainability. It looks like habits that support physical and mental health, boundaries that protect attention, and routines that make good choices easier over time. Progress is waking up with less dread. It’s energy that lasts past Wednesday. It’s the ability to course-correct without starting over. The myth of the January fresh start persists because it’s comforting. It promises a clean slate, a dramatic reset. But meaningful change rarely respects the calendar. People quit smoking on random Tuesdays. They start therapy after breaking points, not countdowns. They rebuild routines in April, September or the middle of a chaotic week. When we tie improvement to a date, we also tie failure to missing it. A healthier approach is permissionbased rather than deadline-driven. You can begin again at any point. You can adjust systems without declaring them broken. You can measure progress by how supported you feel, not how perfect your execution looks. This January doesn’t need another list of resolutions destined to expire. It can be a moment to design a life that works beyond motivation — one built on systems, rituals and principles that make showing up easier than giving up. For those tired of trying harder and ready to live better, that shift changes everything.

OPINIONS

hank you to residents of Legislative District 11 for re-electing me and giving me the honor of continuing to serve you for another

term. A new year always gives me a spark of hope, and that fuels my determination to see Nassau County operate in a more equitable and responsible manner. With many of us contemplating our 2026 resolutions, it’s an exercise that would benefit county leaders and the constituencies they serve. These are but a few of the issues DELIA that county govDeRIGGI-WHITTON ernment should prioritize as we set our goals: To finally get the opioid funds into the hands of frontline agencies. Nassau County has been far too slow in its efforts to get nearly $100 million in opioid settlements to agencies providing lifesaving prevention, treatment and recovery resources. A review of Nassau’s financial system shows that, as of December, less than 7 percent of that money had made it out of county bank accounts and into actual treatment initiatives. With hopes of getting this vital pro-

gram onto a better path, the Legislature authorized the use of $1 million of the funds to bring in an outside agency to cut through the red tape. But the funds have languished for years while lives continue to hang in the balance — and that must change. Remove politics from community grants. Over the past two years, the Legislature’s Democratic minority has fought tooth and nail to secure equitable resources for our communities. We have had to take this approach because County Executive Bruce Blakeman continues to act as though only the districts served by members of his party are entitled to those funds. By sticking together as a caucus, we delivered $1.3 million to equip our first responders and firefighters, and advanced long-delayed grants from the Hotel-Motel Occupancy Tax Fund to support cultural agencies, such as the Sea Cliff Arts Council, that boost regional tourism. Despite Blakeman’s hyper-partisanship and stubbornness, we are delivering for our constituents. But there is much more work to be done in 2026. To date, Republican districts have received approval for 58 Community Revitalization Program grants — for

FRAMEWORK by Tim Baker

On the ice at Milburn Pond, no scarves or skates needed — Baldwin

schools, libraries, parks and more. Democratic districts? Just two. In the new year, let’s judge these projects by how they will enrich the lives of children and protect our first responders — not whether the applicant is Democrat or Republican. Invest equally in Nassau’s infrastructure. The Democratic minority secured a 2025 capital plan that invests in our law enforcement and medics, strengthens vital infrastructure and delivers tens of millions of dollars in resources for critical improvements in our districts. Looking ahead to the 2026 plan, I will continue to prioritize these upgrades for District 11:

know that generous Nassau County residents can more than meet the challenge.

■ Glen Cove, Glen Head and Sea Cliff: We remain focused on advancing the Shore Road flood-mitigation, traffic safety and beautification project. ■ Shore Road seawall, Baxter Estates: I continue to work with many levels of government to secure the roadway, protect the beach from erosion, add ADAcompliant sidewalks, improve lighting and provide amenities such as benches. ■ Baxter Pond, Baxter Estates/Port Washington: We are cleaning the basins to improve water flow, and are working

to secure approvals for dredging. ■ Crescent Beach, Glen Cove: Our test results at the end of the summer were very promising, and we hope to share more good news in the spring. Extend a helping hand all year long. A project nearest to my heart during the Legislature’s last term was our successful efforts to secure $43,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funding that equipped Glen Cove’s Nosh food pantry, and $50,000 for Plant A Row for the Hungry, in Port Washington, to feed families throughout our region. With President Trump’s megabill, underfunding of federal nutrition assistance programs was rampant, making it more critical than ever to support local hunger-fighting organizations. That’s where each of us comes in — and I know the generous hearts of Nassau County residents can more than meet the challenge. Please consider supporting one of the many toy drives that will put a smile on a child’s face in 2026, and give what you can to your local food pantry throughout the year. Together we can give families the greatest gift of all this year: a chance at a new start and better days to come. I wish all of you a joyous New Year! Delia DeRiggi-Whitton, of Glen Cove, represents Nassau County’s 11th Legislative District and is the Legislature’s minority leader.

OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD — January 8, 2026

Looking ahead to a new year of advocacy and action

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January 8, 2026 — OCEANSIDE/ISLAND PARK HERALD

Happy & Healthy New Year From Our Family To Yours