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Suozzi confronts Jan. 6 protesters

Students win big at debate

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Discovery at lab could help fight dementia By WIll SHEElINE wsheeline@liherald.com

Courtesy Jason DeCrow/Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Corina Amor Vegas, who is originally from Madrid, has run a lab at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory since 2022.

Corina Amor Vegas, an associate professor at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, and her research team have made a scientific discovery that could help restore gut health in people suffering from age-related diseases. The work builds on advances in immunotherapy and aging research, and could soon lead to clinical trials aimed at improving the quality of life for patients whose intestinal tissue has been damaged by aging or cancer treatment. The discovery centers on the intestine, an organ critical to digestion and overall health. Under normal conditions, the intestinal epithelium, a single layer of cells lining the gut, regenerates every three to five days. With age or injury — from radiation therapy, for example — that regeneration can slow or stop, leading to inflammation and conditions such as leaky gut syndrome. Continued on pAge 10

Oyster Bay-East Norwich gets update on high school By WIll SHEElINE wsheeline@liherald.com

The Oyster Bay East Norwich Central School District Board of Education received an extensive midyear update Monday on Oyster Bay High School, with Principal Melissa Argamen outlining academic programs, facility upgrades and student achievements during a presentation that emphasized opportunity and growth. Arg amen addressed the board at its meeting in the school auditorium, offering a wide-ranging overview of how the school is supporting students academically, socially

and personally. The high school, she said, has focused on broadening and strengthening academic pathways for students in all grades, supported by a reorganized administrative team and robust counseling services. Argamen introduced new members of the leadership team, including Assistant Principal Dr. Stephany Contreras, who also oversees English as a New Language and world languages; Assistant Principal Robert LoCastro, supervisor of STEM; and Secondary Curricu l u m A s s o c i at e K i m b e rly Corbo, humanities supervisor. They work closely with depart-

ment leaders, Argamen said, to support instruction and curriculum. “Our counseling center is instrumental in providing the support our students need to succeed in school and move confidently into their post-secondary plans,” Argamen said. She highlighted colle g e application boot camps, college mini fairs, individual counseling meetings and the school’s Decision Day celebration. Counselors also support students socially and emotionally through partnerships such as the Long Island Coalition Against Bullying and Naviance assessments.

Argamen detailed hands-on learning across departments, including collaborations with the Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery in AP Human Geography, the Atlantis research program for seventh-graders and continuing participation in civic education initiatives like Operation Democracy and the Seal of Civic Readiness.

World language offerings include American Sign Language, French, Mandarin and Spanish, with opportunities to ear n the Seal of Biliteracy. Argamen noted cultural celebrations throughout the year, including Hispanic Heritage Month and Lunar New Year, as ways to build empathy and Continued on pAge 6

Suozzi clashes with Jan. 6 demonstrators night and completed the certification in the early hours of Jan. 7. Suozzi, who was inside the House chamber during Rep. Tom Suozzi engaged in a heated confrontation those events, grew irritated during Tuesday’s confrontation and responded by questioning the group about outside the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday with a group of demonstrators who had received pardons for their violence directed at law enforcement that day. He roles in the Jan. 6, 2021 attack, leading to a tense ver- asked, “How do you feel about beating up police offibal exchange and the intervention of U.S. Capitol cers? How do you feel about tasing police officers? How do you feel about committing crimes?” Police officers. Capitol Police officers eventually posiSuozzi, a Democrat from Glen Cove, tioned themselves on both sides of Suozzi encountered the protesters as they gathand escorted him away from the crowd. As ered outside the Capitol. Members of the he was being guided from the scene, he group waved American flags and held instructed the demonstrators to “settle signs, including some that said, “Thanks down!” for our pardons!” The ensuing exchange Earlier Tuesday, Suozzi posted video on was witnessed by reporters and others and X that he recorded five years ago from was widely captured on video, including inside the House chamber as the Capitol footage later posted on X. was under attack, including footage taken Suozzi was met by curses and insults, as lawmakers were escorted to shelter. including being called a “fraud” and a TOM SuOzzI He also posted multiple written reflec“traitor.” One protester asked him, “How tions on the fifth anniversary of Jan. 6. In do feel [with] the power of the American Congressman a midafternoon post, Suozzi wrote, “I was people surrounding you. We the people?” in the House chamber inside the Capitol on January 6. Protesters also made remarks about the events of It was very real. That day, I rededicated myself to overJan. 6. Jan. 6, 2021, marked the day when Congress met to coming the extremism and partisanship that has certify the results of the 2020 presidential election. plagued our county. It is the only way forward.” He Large crowds assembled in Washington, D.C., for ral- added, “We cannot ignore history.” In a morning post, he reflected on being among the lies, and some individuals later breached security perimeters at the U.S. Capitol and entered the build- last to leave the chamber. “As one of the last people to ing, disrupting certification proceedings. During the leave the House chamber during the storming of the breach, violence occurred, including clashes with law Capitol, that day is permanently seared into my memoenforcement, assaults on officers, windows being ry. It was a frightening and shameful moment for our smashed, the use of chemical irritants, and vandalism democracy, one that can never be normalized and must inside the building. Congress reconvened later that never be allowed to happen again,” he wrote.

By ROKSANA AMID

ramid@liherald.com

was in the House chamber inside the Capitol on January 6.

Herald file photo

U.S. Rep Tom Suozzi engaged in a heated confrontation outside the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday with a group of demonstrators who had received pardons for their roles in the Jan. 6, 2021. Suozzi also addressed the pardons related to Jan. 6, writing, “The one thing I disagree with President Trump the most, was the pardoning of the January 6th criminals.” Suozzi did not comment to the Herald as of press time regarding the confrontation outside the Capitol.

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What’s NEWs IN aND OUt OF thE CLassROOM

LVHS Model UN team earns eight awards The Locust Valley High School Model UN team headed into the winter break with plenty to be proud of. The delegates showcased their problem-solving skills and earned several awards at the MetMUNC event hosted by Plainview-Old Bethpage High School on Dec. 20 and 21. Delegates worked in committees to resolve current day issues such as cybercrime. Locust Valley students Mia Dessner, Oliver Dostalek, Kristy Martinez and Thomas Simon earned Best Delegate honors, while Sarang Cheon, Alex DeFilippis, Durand Tchanga Mangwa and C.J. McKenzie were recognized as Honorable Delegates. –Will Sheeline

The Locust Valley High School Model UN team took home eight awards from the MetMUNC event at Plainview-Old Bethpage High School on Dec. 20.

Courtesy Locust Valley Central School District

Courtesy Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District

Oyster Bay-East Norwich athletes who received county and state-level honors were given certificates recognizing their achievements.

Celebrating fall athletic excellence at OBHS The Oyster Bay-East Norwich Board of Education closed out 2025 by celebrating athletic excellence as Director of Athletics Shannon McEntee recognized the achievements of fall student-athletes across all varsity sports. The evening highlighted an unprecedented season for OBEN athletics: eight out of 10 varsity teams earned playoff bids, including the girls swim team in their inaugural varsity season. Several teams dominated their conferences this fall. Girls soccer and girls volleyball both finished as undefeated conference champions, while girls cross-country claimed an undefeated division title. The postseason

success continued with boys soccer, girls soccer and girls volleyball all advancing to semifinal rounds in their respective tournaments. The girls tennis team sent two competitors to county championships, while both boys and girls crosscountry teams competed in county and state qualifiers. Four OBEN athletes represented the district at the New York State Championship tournaments. McEntee emphasized that the commitment to academic achievement matched the athletic success. All 10 varsity teams earned scholar-athlete team recognition, underscoring the district's emphasis on excel-

lence in the classroom and on the field. Two standout student-athletes were highlighted to exemplify this dual commitment. Mia Bencal, the district's valedictorian, and Julia Milos, salutatorian, were recognized for their achievements in soccer and sailing alongside their academic excellence. Their accomplishments demonstrate that the highest levels of athletic competition can coexist with superior academic performance. Athletes who received county and state-level honors were called forward during the meeting to receive certificates recognizing their achievements.

OYSTER BAY HERALD — January 8, 2026

HERALD SCHOOLS

January 8, 2026 — OYSTER BAY HERALD

THE GREAT BOOK GuRu

Fatal farewell

The next chapter fast forwards to 2015. The sisters are back at the family home for the holidays, each with an intriguing, albeit troubling life story. Their mother who had been raised in an Irish orphanage is viewed by all as strict and very judgmental. Each sister harbors secrets she desperately wants to hide from her mother. Into this turmoil the quesPolar Bear Plunger tion of Topher and the boating accident arises, and we Dear Polar Bear Plunger, realize each of the sisters “The Irish Goodbye” by knows much more than has Heather Aimee O’Neill is a been revealed. ANN wonderful book to start the The term “Irish goodbye” DIPIETRO new year. Set on the North has come to mean slipping Fork of Long Island - peraway from a party to avoid haps Greenport - the novel long farewells and in this opens in 1990 where we meet story there has been a ghostly departure three sisters: Maggie, Caitlin, and Alice that still haunts the Ryan family after Ryan and their brother Topher. twenty-five years. A compelling read A terrible boating accident has just and highly recommended. occurred, and a young friend, Daniel Larkin, is dead. To the girls’ confusion Would you like to ask the Great Book and horror, Topher is taken away by the Guru for a book suggestion? Contact her local police. at annmdipietro@gmail.com. ear Great Book Guru, I just came back from Sea Cliff’s Polar Bear Plunge what fun! While at the beach, some people were talking about a mystery their book club had chosen. It was set on Long Island but had an Irish twist. It sounded great any thoughts?

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Send your resume to Herald Community Newspapers Managing Editor Jeffrey Bessen at jbessen@liherald.com

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Free property tax grievance workshops Nassau County Legislature Minority Leader Delia DeRiggi-Whitton is inviting homeowners to take advantage of two free online Community Assessment Grievance Workshops designed to help residents better understand and challenge the assessed value of their property. The workshops, offered in partnership with the Nassau County Assessment Review Commission, will guide participants step by step through the county’s online grievance process. Homeowners who believe their property assessment is inaccurate will learn how to file a g rievance, navigate required documentation, and understand what factors are considered when determining property values.

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Representatives from ARC will lead the presentations and be available to answer questions submitted through the chat feature during the sessions. Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with Microsoft Teams prior to the workshop to ensure smooth access on the day of the presentation. Questions submitted during the sessions will be addressed following the presentations. The first workshop will be held from noon to 2 p.m. on Jan. 28. A second session is scheduled for 7 to 9 p.m. on Feb. 11. Both workshops are free to any Nassau County residents. For additional information or assistance, contact 516-571-6211 or by email at dderiggiwhitton@nassaucountyny.gov.

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things to know whole milk returns to schools

By MELISSA BERMAN mberman@liherald.com

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025, which will restore whole and 2 percent milk to America’s school cafeterias for the first time since they were banned in 2012. Every serving of whole milk provides 13 essential nutrients including protein, calcium, and vitamin D, with recent scientific research showing that higher-fat milk consumption by children is associated with lower childhood obesity and other positive health outcomes.

Historic return of whole milk to schools after 13-year ban

Nutritional benefits and overwhelming parent support

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025 by voice vote in December 2025, delivering final congressional approval for legislation that will restore whole and 2 percent milk to America’s school cafeterias for the first time in more than a decade. Schools participating in the USDA national school lunch and breakfast programs have not been permitted to serve whole milk since 2012, when they aimed to align school meal menus with Dietary Guidelines that proposed limiting fat consumption in children. The bill is expected to be signed into law by President Trump and will give schools the flexibility to offer flavored and unflavored organic or conventional whole, 2 percent, 1 percent, skim and lactose-free milk.

Recent national polling shows 91 percent of parents serve their children whole or 2 percent milk at home, and 81 percent of them support Congress passing legislation to reinstate these options in school meals. Recent scientific and medical research indicates that higher-fat milk consumption by children is associated with lower childhood obesity and other positive health outcomes. The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act highlights health benefits milk provides to students, including better bone health, lower blood pressure, and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease or Type 2 diabetes. Since whole and 2 percent milk were banned from school meal menus more than a decade ago, school milk consumption and meal participation have declined; meaning children are consuming fewer essential nutrients.

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Significant benefits to New York’s dairy industry The dairy industry is one of New York’s largest contributors to the agricultural economy, with nearly 3,000 dairy farms in New York that produce over 16.1 billion pounds of milk annually, making New York the nation’s fifth largest dairy state. Schools served nearly 4.9 billion lunches in 2024, with 85 percent of students choosing milk, and school milk accounts for nearly 8 percent of all fluid milk sales, making it a significant market driver. Senator Chuck Schumer announced the passage of the legislation, stating it will help bring more milk from Upstate NY dairy farms to school cafeterias across America. The legislation provides a meaningful outlet for dairy farmers while ensuring students have access to the nutritious milk options they prefer at home.

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OYSTER BAY HERALD — January 8, 2026

Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2025 passes

Principal highlights a semester’s successes Continued from page 1

global awareness. STEM students take part in science research courses, fairs and symposiums, with several earning recognition at regional competitions. Math instruction has been enhanced through the use of Desmos digital graphing tools and enrichment opportunities such as the American Mathematics Competition and field trips to the National Museum of Mathematics in Manhattan. Special Services programming has expanded with the creation of a Practical Assessment Exploration System, or PAES, lab and a student-run coffee cart, giving students pre-vocational and workplace skills while fostering inclusion through peer ambassador programs. Behind-the-scenes investments in facilities and operations, Argamen said, have helped improve safety, efficiency and student engagement. Re c e n t u p g r a d e s i n cl u d e improved auditorium housel i g h t s , g y m a n d H VA C improvements, parking lot repairs and expanded cafeteria offerings. Students now receive free breakfast and lunch, and the cafeteria has become a central gathering space. The school also implemented a new MOOV automated attendance system, allowing Melissa argaMen students to tap in with school Principal, IDs. Argamen said the system Oyster Bay improves safety, increases instructional time and reduces High School costs. Additional investments include a dedicated science research printer, upgraded broadcast studio equipment funded by the district’s 21st Century Improvements Bond and the upcoming launch of a Genius Bar internship program, which will give students hands-on technology-support experience. “These investments may happen behind the scenes,” Argamen said, “but each one plays a critical role in supporting the teaching, learning and day-today experiences of our students.” She also cited spaces such as the Innovation and CO labs as hubs of cross-departmental collaboration and student engagement. A strong sense of community remains central to the school’s culture, she said, reflected in athletics, clubs and arts programs and traditions. During the fall season, eight of 10 varsity teams earned playoff bids, with girls’ cross-country finishing undefeated and winning a division title, and girls’ soccer and vol-

hen students are surrounded by caring adults, strong programs and a community that believes in them, doors open and their stories begin to take place in powerful ways.

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Photos courtesy Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District

oBHS principal melissa argamen’s presentation outlined academics, facility upgrades and student achievements.

argamen updated the oyster Bay-east norwich Central School district Board of education on fall highlights at the high school. leyball going undefeated and capturing conference championships. The girls’ swimming program earned its first playoff bid in school history. All 10 varsity teams earned scholar athlete team honors. Clubs and honor societies continue to grow, with new Middle Level Debate Club, along with the addition of HOSA for Future Health Professionals, at students’ request. Honor societies lead service initiatives, tutoring programs and civic events. Students have also taken a wide range of field trips

and had a variety of experiential learning opportunities, including Broadway performances, museum visits, civic summits, science competitions and leadership conferences. As well, Argamen highlighted professional development for the school staff, including training in A.I. integration, classroom management, English language learner support and Youth Mental Health First Aid. She also reported steady gains in graduation rates, Advanced Placement performance and external rankings. Since 2021, the portion of students earning scores of three or higher on AP exams has increased by more than 20 percentage points. The school earned College Board recognition for AP performance and college credit and optimization. Students also received individual honors including National Merit Commended Student recognition, state sports championships, arts awards and broadcasting accolades at the Broadcasting Alliance for Senior High awards. “When students are surrounded by caring adults, strong programs and a community that believes in them,” Argamen concluded, “doors open, and their stories begin to take place in powerful ways.” School board Trustee John Paul Kopacz thanked Argamen for the presentation, noting that her remarks underscored the district’s emphasis on opportunity and encouraging students to take advantage of the resources available to them. “Your closing words there about opportunity really hit home,” Kopacz said. “Thank you for highlighting that, and that our students are the best.”

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OYSTER BAY 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.

OYSTER BAY HERALD — January 8, 2026

Go the distance

January 8, 2026 — OYSTER BAY HERALD

Cell research has a range of applications Continued from page 1

Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor have found that eliminating damaged, aging cells from the intestine can restore its ability to regenerate. The approach uses CAR T cell therapy, a for m of immunotherapy in which immune cells are engineered to recognize and destroy specific targets. Amor Vegas, who is originally from Spain, said her lab focuses on aging and a process known as cellular senescence. “Cells in your body, they accumulate a lot of damage,” she said. “Over time, they stop doing their normal job, and they instead become really pre-inflammatory. They cause a lot of damage in tissues.” Senescent cells do not divide or die, but secrete signals that activate the immune system unnecessarily, leading to chronic inflammation. As people age, these cells accumulate, and have been linked to diseases such as diabetes, fibrosis and dementia. Amor Vegas came to the lab in January 2022 after completing her medical training in at the Universidad Complutense de Madrid and earning a Ph.D. in cancer biology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. She now leads a group of eight scientists, including postdoctoral researchers, graduate students and technical staff, who engineer immune cells to target senescent cells. They have experimented by extracting immune cells from mice, modifying them in the lab to recognize senescent cells and then injecting them back into the animals. The modified immune cells are known as chimeric antigen receptor T, or CAR T, cells. The team engineered them to target uPAR, a marker found on senescent cells. Amor Vegas said that only one injection was needed for the treatment to have lasting effects. “[The CAR T cell] redirects the immune cells to recognize the senescent cells,” she said. “We take [the cells], we train them and then we put them back.” To study the intestine, the team treated both young and old mice with the engineered cells. Treated animals showed reduced inflammation, fewer senescent cells and an increase in healthy stem cells in the intestinal lining. The intestine was better able to absorb nutrients and regenerate after injury. “In both cases, we see really significant improvements,” Amor Vegas said. “They’re able to absorb nutrients better. They have much less inflammation. When irritated or injured, their epithelial lining is able to regenerate and heal much faster.” The research has particular implications for cancer patients who undergo pelvic or abdominal radiation therapy, which often damages the intestinal lining. The team simulated radiation treatment in mice and found that those receiving CAR T cell therapy recovered much better than those that were not treated. A single treatment improved gut health for at least a year. The work took roughly three years to complete and an additional year to pre-

Photos courtesy Jason DeCrow/Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Corina amor Vegas worked with a team of postdoctoral researchers, graduate students and technical staff.

the research focused on senescent cells, which do not divide or die but secrete signals that activate the immune system unnecessarily, leading to chronic inflammation.

the researchers have “trained” Car t cells to attack old and potentially preinflammatory cells in the gut, preventing a range of diseases.

well on cognitive functions.” Despite the promise, Amor Vegas emphasized that the goal is not to affect the normal aging process. “Aging is part of life, right?” she said. “We would give it to patients that have age-related diseases.” Conditions such as fibrosis, diabetes and dementia, she explained, could be potential targets if the therapy advances to clinical trials. The next step, she said, would involve scaling up production of the engineered cells and securing funding to launch a startup company capable of supporting human trials. Bruce Stillman, the laboratory’s president and CEO, said the research reflects the institution’s mission. “People living with age-related diseases often endure symptoms for years, with few

effective options to restore normal tissue function,” Stillman said in a statement. “Corina’s work, alongside her colleagues at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, is pioneering.” He added that the research has the potential to “significantly improve quality of life,” calling it an example of the lab’s belief that “science makes life better.” Amor Vegas said that responsible use of the science is essential. The longterm aim, she said, is to reduce the number of years people spend with chronic illness. “We’ve all seen patients that maybe they’re spending even 10 years with terrible dementia,” she said. “I think that’s horrible. So really, that’s what we’re trying to avoid.”

pare for publication. Amor Vegas said the team was careful not to overinterpret early results. “We feel really excited, but we tried to take it slowly,” she said. “We try to not get overly excited over just one piece of data.” According to a news release, the researchers also found evidence that the approach promotes regeneration in human intestinal and colorectal cells grown in laboratory settings. Exactly how the process works remains under investigation. Beyond gut health, Amor Vegas said, the treatment has shown broader effects related to aging. “We’ve seen a lot of effects on metabolism,” she said. “Now we’re seeing regeneration, and we have some data as

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In the Camellia Greenhouse ■ Explore the largest camellia collection under glass in the Northeast. ■ Complimentary guided tours with

Planting Fields Arboretum Director, Vincent Simeone, at 11am, 1pm and 2:30pm. Tours are welcoming, accessible, and engaging for all ages. ■ Meet friendly ladybugs and learn how these beneficial insects support healthy plants and gardens.

Attendees should note ■ The Camellia Greenhouse is wheelchair and stroller-accessible. ■ Programs and activities are self-paced. ■ Staff and volunteers are available to provide assistance and answer questions during your visit. Guests with specific accessibility questions or accommodation requests are encouraged to contact us in advance so we can best support your visit. Sessions run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. on both Feb. 14 and 15. Tickets can be purchased at PlantingFields.org/happenings. There is an early bird discount until Jan. 15; $15 for adults, $10 for children, and free entry for children 3 and under. After the discount expires, adult tickets will cost $20, children $15, and still free entry for children three and under. All tickets are final sale. For any additional information and questions, contact Lilly McGurk, Stewardship Director at lmcgurk@plantingfields.org.

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Minimum wage increase to hit paychecks

OYSTER BAY HERALD — January 8, 2026

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,” Gover nor Kathy Hochul said. “By continuing these investments and indexing wages to inflation, we’re ROBERtA REARDON making sure New Yorkers can Commissioner, keep up with rising costs by taking home more money.” New York State “As costs rise, wages must Department of Labor keep pace,” State Sen. Jessica Ramos, who represents parts of Queens and is chair of the committee on labor, said. “Indexing the minimum wage to inflation was not radical, it was responsible, and it’s how we make sure that work is rewarded with dignity today and in the years ahead.” The ability for the state to increase its minimum wages traces its roots back to a 2023 agreement between Hochul and the state legislature. Minimum

ith costs rising, this increase is crucial for workers looking to make ends meet.

Courtesy Metro

Minimum wage increased in New York for the third year in a row. The wage increased to $17 per hour, with the state looking to help workers make ends meet. wage was also boosted by $0.50 per hour in 2024 and 2025. Starting in 2027, the minimum wage will increase annually at a rate determined by the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers for the Northeast Region — the most accurate regional measure of inflation. The state’s Department of Labor is working to educate employers and employees about wage changes. It offers free education seminars to help employers better understand labor laws and ensure compliance.

Workers can visit the Department of Labor’s minimum wage webpage for more information, including an interactive minimum wage lookup tool to verify their correct pay rate. If you earn minimum wage and do not see an increase reflected in your paycheck, wage complaints can be filed at DOL.NY.gov or by calling (833) 910-4378. “With costs rising, this increase is crucial for workers looking to make ends meet,” New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said.

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Lieberman leads second presentation on King By WILL SHEELINE wsheeline@liherald.com

Sea Cliff resident, former mayor and local historian Ed Lieberman will return to the Sea Cliff Library later this month with a multimedia presentation exploring the life and legacy of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., coinciding with the civil rights leader’s birthday. The event marks the second year Lieberman has presented on King for the community. Here are three things to know about the upcoming presentation.

The presentation coincides with King’s birthday and is free to attend Lieberman’s presentation will take place Jan. 15, at 4 p.m. at the Sea Cliff Library. The date falls on King’s actual birthday, a detail Lieberman said adds significance to the event. Admission is free. The program is being hosted with support from the library and its staff, including Camille Purcell, the village librarian. Lieberman said the presentation is designed as an accessible, community level event that allows residents to spend about an hour reflecting on King’s life, leadership and message. “I’m hoping that, you know, people preside an hour or so, to not only be entertained,” Lieberman said, “but also to participate in remembrance, if you will, of this great leader.”

Using photos, music and historic audio to tell King’s story The presentation consists of 38 slides featuring photographs that trace King’s life from childhood through his rise as a national civil rights leader and his assassination in 1968. Lieberman said topics include King’s early life, education, marriage, leadership during the Montgomery bus boycott, national recognition, imprisonment and major speeches, as well as the events leading up to his death. The presentation also incorporates excerpts from King’s speeches, including portions of “I Have a Dream” and his final address in Memphis, known as the Mountaintop speech. In addition to the visual and audio elements, the program includes live music performed by Frank Ferrara. Ferrara will perform “We Shall Overcome,” which Lieberman described as the mantra of the civil rights movement, as well as “Abraham Martin John,” popularized by the artist Dion.

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Lieberman said his interest in presenting on King is deeply personal and shaped by his upbringing in Great Neck during the 1960s. He recalled King as a prominent public figure at the time and noted that King visited Great Neck and spoke at a local temple. He said community presentations like this one are an opportunity to emphasize the educational aspect of national holidays, particularly beyond the classroom. Lieberman said he hopes the presentation encourages reflection on King’s philosophy of nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience, which he described as a through line connecting figures such as Leo Tolstoy, Mahatma Gandhi and King. He added that King’s message continues to resonate because it speaks to fundamental human desires. “People want to get along with one another,” Lieberman said. “People want harmony justice.”

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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.

OYSTER BAY HERALD — January 8, 2026

Yacht Rock Revue

January 8, 2026 — OYSTER BAY HERALD

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD JAN

Planting Fields’ Greenhouse Holiday Display

CALENDAR through a lively and informative presentation. No reservations. First come,first seated.

Step into the warmth of the Main Greenhouse, where a tropical oasis is transformed for the holidays. Brilliant poinsettias, vibrant greenery, and seasonal accents create a lush, immersive escape — an unexpected world of color and life amid the winter chill. Wander through this enchanting display and let the beauty and serenity of the season surround you!

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor • Time: 1 p.m. • Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

JAN

The Bayville Village Arts Council welcomes all to a free concert with the Carella Quartet. Enjoy an extraordinary night of jazz music.

• Where: 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay • Time: 10 a.m.-3:45 p.m., through Jan. 12 • Contact: plantingfields.org or call (516) 922-9210

Monthly meditation

Sands Point Preserve’s historic mansions and waterfront grounds are the backdrop for an evening of nature-based mindfulness and meditation with Hildur Palsdottir, first Thursday monthly. Classes are held in the beautiful rooms of the Preserve’s mansions, or in the Hempstead House Garden when weather permits. Explore techniques specifically aimed at stress reduction. Hildur adapts ancient Buddhist teachings to modern applications for calming the mind. With transformative practices you will access wisdom and clarity to live a more compassionate life. In addition to facilitating these monthly groups, Hildur offers support with establishing a home meditation practice. No feeling is final. $17 per class. • Where: 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point • Time: 6-8 p.m. • Contact: sandspointpreservecon servancy.org or call (516) 5717901

JAN

‘Violet’s Victory’

Families are invited to Nassau County Museum of Art for a special story time with children’s author Valerie Goldstein, who shares her inspiring picture book Violet’s Victory! Follow Violet, a determined young girl with lavender hair, as she discovers her strength, perseverance, and the power of adaptive sports on her journey to achieve her dreams. After the reading, meet the author for a book signing and enjoy a fun, hands-on craft inspired by Violet’s story of creativity, courage, and confidence. Children must be accompanied by an adult care giver.; $20 adult, $10 members and children. Advance registration preferred.

Concert program

Where: Bayville Arts & Community Center, 88 Bayville Ave., Bayville • Time: 8 p.m.

JAN

Paul Cornish Trio

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

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor • Time: 1:30-3 p.m. • Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

JAN

In concert

Sands Point Preserve’s reserve’s historic mansions and waterfront grounds are the backdrop for another edition of its unique chamber music series at Hempstead House, themed “Winter Dreams.” Kick off the new year with a concert that blends music with messages of legacy, hope and resilience. Celebrate the life and vision of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., reflecting on courage, compassion, and the dream of a better world. You’ll hear music that captures struggle and triumph, sorrow and joy, and the power of a cultural legacy that still inspires today. The program is performed by duoJalal ensemble-in-residence featuring Kathryn Lockwood, viola, and Yousif Sheronick, percussion, with violinists Rebecca Fischer and Karla Donahue Perez, cellist Christine Lamprea, and Bixby Kennedy, clarinet. With wine reception following. $56, $45 members. • Where: Hempstead House, 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point • Time: 3-5 p.m.

• Contact: sandspointpreservecon servancy.org or call (516) 5717901

Intentional listening circle

Visit Oyster Bay Yoga to share stories, listen and connect with community members as part of their intentional listening circle led by Kaitlyn Pawlukojc. The group meets once a month. All are welcome. • Where: 9 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay Time: 6:30-8:30 p.m. • Contact: oysterbayyoga.com or (516) 922-4222

JAN

10 Most Influential Cookbooks

This illustrated virtual talk hosted by the North Shore Programming Consortium explores ten notable cookbooks that shaped our shared culinary heritage. From the trailblazing work of Fannie Farmer and Irma Rombauer to the innovative explorations of Julia Child and Craig Claiborne, these cookbooks have become milestone best-sellers. The North Shore Programming

Consortium consists of six local libraries (Bayville, Glen Cove, Gold Coast, Locust Valley, Oyster Bay and Sea Cliff) that have come together to bring our patrons more of a variety in adult programming in a more cost effective way. Space is limited. To register, visit the website of any associated library or the consortium’s website, NSPCLibrary.org. • Where: Virtual • Time: 7-8 p.m. • Contact: Any associated library

JAN

Town Board meets

The Town of Oyster Bay invites residents to attend their upcoming board meeting, held at Town Hall North, to engage with their government and find out what’s going on in their community. • Where: 54 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay • Time: 10 a.m. • Contact: (516) 624-6380

JAN

‘Brown Bag’ Art Chat

Grab your lunch and join Nassau County Museum of Art Docent Riva Ettus for her popular “Brown Bag Lecture” at the museum. Explore “The Real, Surreal, and Photoreal,”

JAN

Art explorations

Converse, collaborate and create with kids at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art. Get inspired by the art and objects in the galleries and then join educators at the Manes Center to explore and discover different materials to create your own original artwork. Kids and adults connect while talking about and making art together. A new project is featured every week. $20 adult, $10 child. For ages 2-14. Registration required. $20, $10 child; members free. Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor • Time: Noon-3 p.m. • Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

JAN

Blues night

The Bayville Village Arts Council welcomes all to a free concert with feature various local artists performing the blues. Enjoy a unique blues experience. Where: Bayville Arts & Community Center, 88 Bayville Ave., Bayville • Time: 8 p.m

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.

Public Notices

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LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, Plaintiff AGAINST Francine Slade a/k/a Francine A. Slade; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 22, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County

Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 20,2026, at 2:00PM, premises known as 6 Hidden Pond f/k/a part of 206 Brookville Road, Muttontown, NY 11545. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau, State of NY, Section 16 Block B Lot 1761 formerly part of Lot 1544. Approximate amount of judgment $3,135,146.69 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 011213/2010. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” John P. Clarke, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792 Dated: November 20, 2025 157301

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE TO BIDDERS The Board of Education of the Locust Valley Central School District invites the submission of Sealed Bid Proposals to furnish materials and labor to complete the Middle School/ High School Cafeteria Renovation & Library Renovation at Locust Valley Middle and High School in accordance with the plans and specifications for the following category(ies) of work: LOCUST VALLEY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT Locust Valley Middle School & High School Cafeteria Renovation NYSED PROJECT NO.: 28-05-03-06-0-012-058 Bid # LV012-01 CONTRACT C-1 SITE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT G-1: GENERAL CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT M-1 MECHANICAL CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT P-1 PLUMBING CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT E-1 ELECTRICAL CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT AV-1 AUDIO VIDEO CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT

W-1 WINDOW CONSTRUCTION Library Renovation NYSED PROJECT NO.: 28-05-03-06-0-012-059 Bid # LV012-04 CONTRACT C-2 SITE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT G-2: GENERAL CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT M-2 MECHANICAL CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT E-2 ELECTRICAL CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT AV-1 AUDIO VIDEO CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT W-1 WINDOW CONSTRUCTION Sealed Bid Proposals will be received until 10:30 am prevailing time on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at the School District Administration Office, 22 Horse Hollow Rd. Locust Valley, N.Y. 11560, at which time and place the bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. Any bid may be withdrawn without prejudice prior to the official bid opening time or any publicized postponement thereof. Any bid received after the time and date stated above will be returned to the bidder unopened. Bidders are solely responsible for the arrival of each bid at the School District Administration Office by the appointed time, regardless of the means of delivery. Bids must be presented on the standard bid proposal form(s) in the manner designated therein and as required by the Specifications. All bids must be addressed to the Purchasing Agent, Justine Stringer, District Administration Building, 22 Horse Hollow Rd. Locust Valley, N.Y. 11560. All bids shall be sealed and in an opaque envelope that is distinctly marked on the outside as follows: “Bid # LV012-01, MS/ HS Cafeteria Renovation at Locust Valley Middle and High School” as required by the Bid Specifications. The name of the bidder, bidders address, and the name of the contract, and/ or contracts being bid must also appear on the outside of the envelope. The Contract Documents may be examined at the Office of the Architect, Mark Design Studios Architecture, PC, 270 North Broadway, Hicksville New York, 516-827-0240 (phone) during the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. excluding holidays. Bidders are encouraged to call ahead; however

the Contract Documents may only be obtained through the Office of REVplans, 28 Church Street, Unit #7, Warwick, New York 10990 (877272-0216) beginning on Tuesday, January 13, 2026. Complete digital sets of Contract Documents shall be obtained online (with a free user account) as a download for a non-refundable fee of One Hundred ($100.00) Dollars at the following website: r e v p l a n s. b i d d y h q . com under ‘public projects’. Optionally, in lieu of digital copies, hard copies may be obtained directly from REVplans upon a deposit of One Hundred ($100.00) Dollars for each complete set. Checks for deposits shall be made payable to Locust Valley Central School District, and may be uncertified. Plan deposit is refundable in accordance with the terms of the ‘Information For Bidders’ to all submitting bids. Bidding Document costs are refundable provided the documents are returned to REVplans within thirty (30) days of the Bid Opening, and are COMPLETE, UNMARKED and in NOT TORN condition. Any bidder requiring printed documents to be shipped shall make arrangements with the printer and pay for all packaging and shipping costs. All bid addenda will be transmitted to registered plan holders via email and will be available at the above. Any bidder requiring documents to be shipped shall make arrangements with the printer and pay for all packaging and shipping costs. Plan holders who have obtained hard copies of the bid documents will need to make the determination if hard copies of the addenda are required for their use, and coordinate directly with the printer for hard copies of addenda to be issued. There will be no charge for registered plan holders to obtain hard copies of the bid addenda. The bid deposit for hard copies will be returned upon receipt of plans and specifications, in good condition, within thirty days after bid date, except for the lowest responsible bidder, whose check will be forfeited upon the award of the contract. A Pre-Bid conference and walk-through will be held promptly at 4:00

Courtesy Nassau BOCES

Nassau BOCES Barry Tech Nurse Assisting teacher Marie Brown, right, was joined by industry partners Nancy Coogan, a retired registered nurse from Long Island Jewish Forest Hills Hospital, and Paula Magdalena Vidal, president of Autism Horizon Consulting, at the school’s recent Industry Advisory Recognition Brunch.

Industry professionals honored at recognition brunch Nassau BOCES Barry Tech recently honored more than 100 industry partners during its annual Industry Advisory Recognition Brunch, recognizing business leaders who support the school’s career and technical education programs. Among those attending the event were Barry Tech Nurse Assisting teacher Marie Brown and industry representatives Nancy Coogan, a retired registered nurse from Long Island Jewish Forest Hills Hospital, and Paula Magdalena Vidal, president of Autism Horizon Consulting. The annual brunch brings together students, educators and Nassau BOCES board members, administrators, faculty and staff to thank industry mentors for their continued guidance, collaboration and support of student learning. Barry Tech is a Nassau BOCES career and technical education high

school offering more than 40 hands-on courses designed to help students develop practical skills and prepare for careers in a variety of fields. Instruction takes place in a state-of-the-art facility that simulates real-world work environments and meets current industry standards. Classes may be held in settings such as an airplane hangar, horse-training stable, carpentry shop or culinary arts kitchen. After completing their studies, students may attend two- or four-year colleges, enter the workforce or continue advanced career training at technical schools. More information about Barry Tech is available at nassauboces.org and on Nassau BOCES’ Facebook and Instagram pages.

p.m. on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at the Locust Valley Middle and High School located at 99 Horse Block Rd, Locust Valley, NY 11560. All bidders shall meet at the front entrance of the school. Prospective bidders are strongly encouraged to attend. Knowledge of the site is crucial to obtain a proper understanding of the Work. All bidders must be fully familiar with the site. Bidders shall visit the sites of proposed work and be fully familiarized with conditions as they exist, as well as the character of the operations to be carried on under the proposed contract. All visits must be scheduled & coordinated with Brandon Steck, Director of Operations, at

& Materials Payment Bonds in the amount of the contract price and in the form specified in the Bid Documents. Each Bidder shall prepare their bid proposal, along with a bid security, in accordance with the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the “Information for Bidders” and Bid Specifications. Attention of bidders is particularly called to the minimum wage rates to be paid under the contracts. Wages to workers, laborers and mechanics employed to work on this project shall be paid in accordance with Section 220 of the Labor Law and in accordance with the Prevailing Rate Schedules found in the Project Manual. Proof of such payments will be

–Jordan Vallone

Public Notices (516) 827 - 0240 or by email to brandon@ markdesignstudios.com. Each bid must be accompanied by a certified check payable to LOCUST VALLEY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT or by a Bid Bond in an amount equal to ten percent (10%) of the bid conditioned as set forth in the “Information for Bidders” of the Bid Specifications. All bid security, except those of the three lowest bidders will be returned within ten (10) days after bids are submitted. The bid security provided by the three lowest bidders will be returned after the execution of the Trade Contract. The District will require the successful bidder to provide separate Performance and Labor

required. The District reserves the right to award a contract to the lowest responsible bidder providing the required security within forty-five (45) days of the date opening of the bids. To the fullest extent allowed by law, the District further reserves the right to reject bids that contain conditions, omissions, exceptions or modifications, or in its sole discretion to waive any irregularities in the bids, or to reject any or all bids, or to accept any bid which in the opinion of the District is in its best interest. By Order of Board of Education Locust Valley Central School District 157738 To Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232

OYSTER BAY HERALD — January 8, 2026

LEGAL NOTICE OYSTER BAY-EAST NORWICH CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Town of Oyster Bay OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK 11771 Requests for School Transportation The Board of Education in the Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District, in accordance with existing Education Law, reminds residents of the district that requests for transportation of nonhandicapped children to private and parochial schools in or out of the district, must be submitted in writing to the office of the Executive Director for Business and Finance on or before April 1, 2026. To obtain a “Request for Transportation” form, please call the Transportation Office at (516) 624-6502 or go to the Transportation page on the district website at www.obenschools.org. Private or parochial school officials may act as agents for parents requesting such transportation. It is also requested that parents of handicapped children, who may require transportation to other than public schools, contact the office of the Executive Director for Business and Finance. Written requests may be submitted to Zachary Nyberg, CPA, Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District, Administration Building, 1 McCouns Lane, Oyster Bay, New York 11771. Board of Education Oyster Bay-East Norwich Central School District of the Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau, Oyster Bay, New York 11771 District Clerk - Susan Walsh 157112

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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.”

OYSTER BAY HERALD — January 8, 2026

Documenting a formidable L.I. journalist, Amy Goodman

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OYSTER BAY

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Without January pressure, change works better

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

t shouldn’t be necessary to say this: Every day that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. remains in charge of America’s public health system, the health of every American is at greater risk. The Department of Health and Human Services exists to protect Americans from disease, contamination and preventable death. It depends on science, expertise and public trust. RFK Jr., now its secretary, has long questioned the scientific consensus on vaccines and other core publichealth tools. The tension between those views and mICHaeL the mission of HHS isn’t theoretiBLITZ cal; it is immediate and consequential. HHS oversees vaccines, food and drug safety, disease surveillance, medical research, and emergency health responses. Much of its work happens quietly, noticed only when it fails. Its effectiveness rests on credibility: the public’s confidence that health guidance is grounded in evidence rather than ideology. That confidence is harder to sustain when the agency’s leader has built a public profile on skepticism toward established science. For years Kennedy has worked not

simply to question specific vaccines or treatments, but to cast doubt on the scientific enterprise itself — on research, on data and on the idea that fact-based medicine should guide health care decisions. He regularly portrays medical science as suspect, and institutions built on evidence as fundamentally untrustworthy. Those claims, long rejected by scientists and physicians, once lived at the fringes of public discourse. They now carry institutional weight — not because they have become more credible, but because leadership determines which facts are defended, which expertise is respected and which truths are allowed to blur into doubt. This matters because vaccine skepticism isn’t an intellectual exercise; it is a public health failure in slow motion. Declining vaccination rates are directly tied to the return of diseases once considered under control. Measles outbreaks are no longer theoretical; they are occurring now. When the HHS secretary consistently undermines confidence in science itself, the signal to the public is destabilizing: Evidence is optional, expertise is suspect, and facts are just other opinions. Parents are left navigating fear and misinformation instead of receiving clear guidance, and the consequences fall most heavily on children

Framework by Tim Baker

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

and vulnerable communities. This is what irresponsible, reckless anti-science posturing looks like when it moves from rhetoric to governance. The greatest risk of RFK Jr.’s leadership isn’t dramatic upheaval. Public health rarely unravels overnight. More often, it weakens gradually. Guidance becomes less decisive. Research is second-guessed in ways that stall action rather than improve it. Fringe ideas receive attention in the name of balance. The result is delay — and in public health, delay costs lives. The administration’s decision to put Kennedy in charge of HHS reflects a troubling willingness to treat scientific expertise as negotiable. HHS was created because societies learned, often through painful experience, that coordinated, evidence-based action saves lives. Undermining that foundation doesn’t lead to better outcomes; it invites preventable harm. That harm will not be shared equally. Children, the elderly, the immunocompromised, and communities with limited access to care are always the most vulnerable when public health falters. Doctors and nurses will confront illnesses they shouldn’t be seeing. Hospitals will absorb the strain. Families will bear the consequences of uncertainty that should never have existed.

he greatest risk of RFK Jr.’s leadership isn’t dramatic upheaval. It’s a weakening.

Kennedy frequently presents himself as an advocate for children and health. But protecting children requires more than questioning authority; it requires responsibility. It requires clear communication, respect for evidence, and a willingness to act decisively in the face of risk. Confusion isn’t empowerment, and skepticism isn’t a substitute for leadership. Viruses and bacteria don’t respond to debate. They exploit hesitation and mistrust. History makes this painfully clear: Public health failures occur not because science is wrong, but because leaders choose not to rely on it. RFK Jr.’s tenure at HHS is already reshaping how Americans think about health guidance at a time when trust is fragile and the stakes are high. The likely outcomes — more preventable illness, more avoidable death and deeper public confusion — aren’t matters of opinion. They are the foreseeable results of weakening the bond between science and policy. Government has many responsibilities, but one should be beyond dispute: to protect the public using the best knowledge available. Anything less risks turning one of the nation’s most important health institutions into something it was never meant to be — an experiment whose costs are paid in human lives. Michael Blitz is professor emeritus of interdisciplinary studies at the City University of New York’s John Jay College of Criminal Justice.

OYSTER BAY HERALD — January 8, 2026

Health and Human Services: less healthy, more disservice

January 8, 2026 — OYSTER BAY HERALD

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