Candidates run unopposed
Woodmere Music Studio seniors shine
Woodmere Music Studio celebrated its 26th anniversary with a Senior Recital on May 17 at the Lynbrook Public Library, showcasing the talent and dedication of its featured graduating seniors Claudia Lee and Deniz Artan.
The program featured a diverse selection of classical, vocal and musical theater works performed by the studio’s graduating stu-
dents.
Among the highlights were Claudia Lee’s performances of “Il Mio Bel Foco” for soprano and piano by Benedetto Marcello, “Romanian Folk Dances” for cello and piano by Béla Bartók, and “The Wizard and I” from the musical Wicked.
Deniz Artan impressed audiences with works by Benjamin Godard, Jules
Mouquet and Georges Enesco, demonstrating technical skill and musical artistry.
Directed by Patricia Lee, the recital reflected months of preparation and hard work by the performers.
Lee said she was extremely proud of the students’ commitment and accomplishments. Woodmere Music Studio’s next student recitals are scheduled for June 21 and June 29.
— Melissa Berman
Andrew Kempski/Herald
Lawrence mayor and trustees seek re-election unopposed
By MELISSA BERMAN mberman@liherald.com
Residents of the Village of Lawrence will head to the polls on June 16 to elect village officials in the first election held under a newly adopted term structure that extends elected terms from two years to four years while limiting officials to two consecutive four-year terms.
Mayor Samuel Nahmias and Trustees Aaron Felder and Steve Gottesman are all seeking re-election and running unopposed. If elected, each will serve four-year terms under the revised village law, which was approved unanimously by the Board of Trustees earlier this year.
“Your employees are the most critical thing to the village infrastructure, and they need to know there is stability in their government,” Nahmias said. “In order to finish initiatives, you need the time to do so.”
Nahmias, who was first elected mayor in 2024, said he is seeking another term to continue projects that began during the current administration. He cited public safety enhancements, infrastructure improvements and long-range planning efforts among his priorities.
“Our mission isn’t over,” Nahmias said. “We have more to deliver to the community with security cameras, enhanced security, beautification programs and bringing the community back to the core basics of what it should be. It’s no fighting, just delivering.”
Among the initiatives he highlighted are the installation of security cameras throughout the village, the creation of a command center linked to Nassau County
Photos courtesy of the candidates
Village of Lawrence Mayor Samuel Nahmias, Trustee Aaron Felder and Trustee Steve Gottesman are running for re-election in the upcoming village vote on June 16.
police, additional road repaving projects and a coordinated infrastructure plan with utility providers.
Nahmias said village officials have worked with Liberty Water and National Grid to synchronize water main replacements and utility upgrades with future road paving projects.
“Lawrence has one of the oldest water infrastructures,” he said. “This is something that the community has constantly complained about. In the next four years, the Village of Lawrence’s water is going to be clean. It’s not going to be orange.”
He also pointed to ongoing improvements at the Lawrence Yacht & Country Club, including plans for expanded event facilities and lodging accommodations, as well as a FEMA-funded dredging project.
Felder, who has served one term as trustee and currently serves as deputy mayor, said his roots in Lawrence run deep. A resident for nearly 50 years, he owns several healthcare-related businesses and a residential real estate company.
“My favorite part about being a trustee is being able to serve my friends, neighbors and all residents in helping to improve our collective quality of life in a place we all share and love,” Felder said.
He said he is seeking re-election because several initiatives remain unfinished and because experienced leadership is important for maintaining efficient government operations.
“There is so much on our agenda that still needs to be effectuated,” Felder added.
“Having people on the Board of Trustees that have an intimate knowledge of the village and its residents’ needs, as well as strong business backgrounds, is extremely helpful in making village government run smoothly, effectively and in a fiscally responsible way.”
If re-elected, Felder said he plans to focus on public safety, beautification efforts and infrastructure improvements throughout the village.
He also credited his late father, former Lawrence Mayor C. Simon Felder, as his
inspiration for public service.
“My example for public service has always been my father,” Felder said. “I hope to continue to have the opportunity to follow in his footsteps and devote my time and efforts.”
Gottesman, a mortgage finance professional who has lived in Lawrence since 1995, said the past two years have reinforced his commitment to serving the village.
“I love the village, and I wanted to give back all the wonderful things that I have received from it,” Gottesman said. “These two years have flown by. I feel like I’m only just getting my feet wet.”
Gottesman said one of the most rewarding aspects of serving as a trustee has been addressing everyday quality-of-life concerns, from overgrown vegetation and street lighting issues to sanitation and public works matters.
“It’s the little things that affect people’s daily lives,” he said. “Those are the things people appreciate the most because they see the difference every day.”
He said the board has worked collaboratively to improve village operations and finances while fostering a more positive atmosphere in local government.
“What we have done in two short years, we know how much more we can do in the future,” Gottesman said. “We want to make Lawrence cleaner, make things run better and improve the quality of life for everyone who lives here. We want people to be proud to say they live in Lawrence.”
Voting will take place on June 16, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the Lawrence Yacht & Country Club, 101 Causeway, Lawrence.
David Friedman recognized for impact in Hewlett, Woodmere
By AIDAN WARSHAVSKY awarshavsky@liherald.com
Lifelong Five Towns resident David Friedman was an honoree for this year’s Make A Difference Award, a Town of Hempstead recognition that celebrates individuals who have made a significant impact on their communities.
In a written statement to the Herald, Councilwoman Melissa “Missy” Miller, who nominated Friedman for the award on May 29, said there was no one more deserving than Friedman, adding the two have known each other for a decade.
“Always eager to lend a helping hand, David embodies the spirit of community service,” Miller wrote. “I was proud to nominate him for this recognition.”
As a grade-school student, Friedman said he and his late sister, Joan Harris, were raised to help others. While attending sleepaway camp in Upstate New York, they volunteered at a nursing home.
“My parents, Sheldon and Francine, instilled [community service] in us as young children,” Friedman said. Friedman, 69, was the Herald Person of the Year in 2018 and has served as president of the Hewlett-Woodmere Business Association since 2015.
Public Schools Endowment Fund. Roblin moved to Woodmere in 1994 and met Friedman shortly afterward at a Memorial Day Parade. Since then, the two have worked together through the business association and the endowment fund, most notably on Arts Below Sunrise.
Roblin, who attended the award ceremony, said he was proud of Friedman’s accomplishments and believes he deserves the recognition every year.
“It’s nice to see him appreciated for all the good work he does in the neighborhood,” Roblin said. “David does more himself than 90 percent of the people combined in this neighborhood.”
In 2012, Friedman was among the community leaders who helped reviving Veterans Memorial Plaza in Hewlett, after Hurricane Sandy washed it away. Along with the business association’s then-president Jaime Wysocki-Azcona, and Roblin, Friedman said the group came up with a plan to have vendors sponsor the repairs.
Known affectionately as “the mayor of Hewlett and Woodmere,” Friedman has hosted hundreds of local ribbon-cutting ceremonies, fundraisers and community events. He is also involved with the Hewlett-Woodmere school district, the Hewlett-Lawrence Soccer Club, the
Hewlett-Woodmere Public Schools Endowment Fund and other civic groups. He is also on the Nassau County Police Commissioners Community Council. One community member who has known Friedman for decades is John Roblin, chairman of the Hewlett-Woodmere
Reflecting on the recognition, Friedman said he enjoys helping people and seeing the positive effects that come from community involvement.
“People are always calling me asking to help in various projects,” Friedman said. “I like to help people and I love my community.”
Chabad of Hewlett honors new building at June 9th gala
By MELISSA BERMAN mberman@liherald.com
The Chabad of Hewlett will celebrate a milestone year of growth and community connection during its upcoming Gala Celebration on June 9, marking the organization’s first major gala event in its new building.
Unlike many organizations that host annual fundraising dinners, Rabbi Nochem Tenenboim said Chabad of Hewlett only holds gala celebrations when the community reaches a significant new stage of growth.
“I believe we’ve had only eight gala dinners over the years, and each one represented another step forward, another commitment to grow stronger, bigger and do even more for the community,” Tenenboim wrote in an email.
This year’s event will honor a unique group of supporters: the Chabad’s monthly donors, who Tenenboim said have quietly helped sustain and expand programming throughout the year.
“Since moving into our beautiful new building in October, the activities and programs for the entire greater Hewlett Jewish community have grown tremendously,” he wrote. “Every week there are more families, more kids, more classes, more Shabbat celebrations and more people walking through the doors and feeling at home.”
With that growth, however, came increased operational costs and a greater reliance on consistent community support.
“For the first gala in our beautiful new building, we decided to honor the people who quietly keep Chabad running all
year long — our monthly donors who make all this possible every single day,” Tenenboim added.
The rabbi described the gala as more than just a fundraiser or formal dinner. Instead, he said, it is intended to be a celebration of the broader Jewish community throughout Hewlett and the surrounding area.
“This is not a synagogue gala or a temple dinner,” he wrote. “This is a celebration of the entire greater Hewlett Jewish
community.”
According to Tenenboim, Chabad of Hewlett has worked to create an environment that is welcoming and accessible to Jews of all backgrounds, affiliations and levels of observance.
“From the very beginning, Chabad has been a place truly open to every Jew,” he wrote. “Our goal has always been to bring the joy, warmth and beauty of Judaism to everyone, especially during challenging times when people are searching for con-
nection, meaning and community.”
Over the years, the Chabad has expanded its reach through a wide variety of programming, including Shabbat celebrations, holiday events, educational classes, teen programming and the Jewish Kids Club of Hewlett.
“Children truly love being Jewish while enjoying our big, beautiful building filled with warmth and energy,” Tenenboim wrote.
The organization has also become a gathering place for local students, young families, adults and seniors seeking a stronger sense of community and Jewish identity.
“The impact is tremendous,” Tenenboim wrote. “It’s creating a stronger sense of Jewish pride, unity and happiness throughout the community.”
Tenenboim said one of his favorite aspects of the gala is seeing community members come together in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere.
“We all love these gala celebrations,” he wrote. “To be there together with everyone, enjoying good food, relaxing and celebrating with joy, is truly beautiful.”
As Chabad of Hewlett looks toward the future, Tenenboim said the gala will also serve as an opportunity to reflect on how the organization can continue expanding its outreach and programs.
“We’re excited to welcome everyone to the gala and to all the amazing programs and services we offer,” he wrote. “You don’t need any previous experience or affiliation to walk through our doors. That’s what Chabad is all about — family, community and making Judaism joyful and accessible for every single Jew.”
Courtesy David Friedman
Known as the unofficial mayor of Hewlett and Woodmere, David Friedman, fourth from left, was honored by Councilwoman Melissa “Missy” Miller for his community impact on May 29.
Courtesy Rabbi Nochem Tenenboim
Rabbi Nochem Tenenboim and his wife, Rivkie, during the construction of the new Center for Jewish Life of Hewlett, in January 2025.
HERALD EDitoRiAL
Keep your pets out of hot vehicles
We all know the dangers of leaving your child in a parked car, especially in the summer. But what most people don’t realize is the deadly consequences that can result from leaving your pet in a parked car, too.
This danger is not exaggerated; it’s science.
A parked car acts like a greenhouse, trapping heat inside that builds with alarming speed. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, the temperature inside a vehicle parked on an 85-degree day can reach 104 degrees in just 10 minutes, and within an hour can soar more than 40 degrees above the outdoor temperature.
Even on days that feel merely warm — not scorching — the heat in a sealed vehicle can become lethal.
Many pet owners still cling to dangerous myths. Parking in the shade isn’t enough. Cracking the windows doesn’t offer meaningful relief. Leaving water in the car changes little. Once heat becomes trapped, the temperature rises rapidly and relentlessly. What makes the situation even more dangerous is that animals can’t cool themselves the way humans do. People sweat efficiently.
Battery energy storage is still too risky
To the Editor:
I have lived on Long Island for many years, and it’s part of my DNA. I was shocked to read the op-ed in the May 14-20 issue, “Battery energy storage isn’t just an experiment. It works,” by Nick Guariglia, the advocacy manager of the New York Offshore Wind Alliance. It was a completely one-sided commentary by an insider to the battery storage proposals floating around Long Island. One basic, and most important, concern Mr. Guariglia didn’t mention is the lack of technology for avoiding lithium battery fires. The fires that have occurred in the U.S. and around the world caused by overheating energy-storage batteries are well documented. Fire departments, and fire marshals, across the U.S. acknowledge the lack of knowledge, appropriate tools and training of volunteer firefighters that’s necessary to manage these fires. Firefighters simply depend on hours of watering the batteries until the fire is extinguished.
Dogs and cats rely primarily on panting. But when the air surrounding them is already hotter than their bodies, panting can actually worsen the problem by drawing in even hotter air. Heatstroke can occur in just minutes.
Certain kinds of pets face even greater risks. Older and overweight animals, and short-muzzled breeds such as pugs and bulldogs, struggle to regulate body temperature under normal conditions. Inside a hot car, they can quickly suffer brain damage, organ failure or death.
The warning signs of heatstroke are often easy to spot: heavy panting, frantic behavior and excessive drooling are early signs of distress. Bright red gums, vomiting, stumbling or collapse signal a medical emergency. At that point, every second matters.
If a pet appears to be overheating, it should immediately be moved to a cooler area and relieved with cool — not ice-cold — water while emergency veterinary care is sought. Ice water can shock the body and worsen the situation.
Unfortunately, many tragedies occur because owners convince themselves they will “only be gone a minute.” But a quick
L E tt ER to t HE ED ito R
This archaic process of putting out a fire costs thousands of gallons of expensive water, and the chemicals that burning lithium-based batteries release into our communities, and our Long Island waterways, are a key concern in the towns where these batteries are proposed to be installed.
Let’s be clear: Our communities are not opposed to innovative ideas for generating much-needed added energy, but that shouldn’t come with a high risk of exposing our children and families to lithium batteries that have not yet proven to be manageable, but have proven to be fire-prone when they overheat. Let’s not ignore these facts and offer one-sided comments to the public.
Mr. Guariglia also failed to mention the critical nature of base-load generation, the foundation of consistent and reliable energy production. Before considering additional supplementary energy sources such as wind and solar, we must strengthen our existing power generation structure by repowering the E.F. Barrett, Northport and Port Jefferson power plants, and increasing their efficiency by converting them to combined-cycle-generation capaci-
stop in a store, coffee shop or pharmacy can turn deadly if a line forms or there’s another distraction.
If you see a pet left in a car, call 911. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
The issue is serious enough that New York, and many other states, have laws addressing animals left in dangerous conditions inside vehicles.
New York Agriculture and Markets Law Section 353-d prohibits confining a companion animal in a vehicle during extreme heat or cold when doing so puts the animal in imminent danger of death or serious physical injury. The law authorizes police officers, firefighters, emergency responders and humane officers to remove the endangered animal if necessary. A pet owner can also face criminal cruelty charges if an animal is injured or dies after being left in a hot car.
But laws alone cannot solve the problem. Public awareness and personal responsibility matter most. The safest choice is also the simplest: If your pet can’t come inside with you, leave it at home. No errand, appointment or convenience is worth risking your four-legged best friend’s life.
ty from existing single-cycle generation. This will almost double their power output.
We must expand the capacity of the upstate Nine Mile Point nuclear power plants 1 and 2. Utilize the availability of clean natural gas to New York state via the new pipeline known as the North East Supply Enhancement project to supply Long Island plants. Take full advantage of the existing cross-Sound cables that transport energy to and from Long Island, as well as the Neptune cable, from Sayreville, N.J., that transmits electricity generated in the Midwest to Long Island.
Funding the above must take precedence over expending resources on inconsistent power generation from wind and solar projects or risky battery energy storage systems.
GEOrGE P. POMBAr President, Glen Head-Glenwood Landing-Greenvale Civic Council Editors’ note: Nick Guariglia’s op-ed did not appear in all print editions of the Herald, but can be found at liherald. com.
Passport fun at TOH for Cedarhurst residents
Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray recently assisted the Orlofsky family of Cedarhurst during Passport Day on May 17 at Hempstead Town Hall.
The event provided residents with the opportunity to utilize the Town of Hempstead’s passport office during a convenient weekend session. Town officials said the office is the largest passport acceptance facility in the nation.
Passport Day allows residents to apply for or renew passports outside of normal weekday business hours, offering added convenience for families and working individuals seeking travel documentation services.
For more information about the Town Clerk’s Office and available services, residents can visit the town’s website or contact the office directly by phone.
— Melissa Berman
BELMONT PARK VILLAGE
Just off the Cross Island Parkway, shop designer fashion finds from Coach, lululemon, Valentino, and more, at up to 65% off every day. Dine at award-winning restaurants, stroll through pedestrian-only streets, and turn a quick trip into a day’s escape.
Courtesy Town of Hempstead
Hempstead Town Clerk Kate Murray, left, recently assisted the Orlofsky family of Cedarhurst during Passport Day on May 17 at Hempstead Town Hall.
Brandeis Hebrew Academy salutes Israel
Students, families, faculty and community members from Brandeis Hebrew Academy joined thousands of participants at this year’s Israel Parade, celebrating their connection to Israel and the Jewish people on May 31.
The school’s delegation marched together in a spirited display of Jewish pride and unity, waving Israeli flags and showing support for Eretz Yisrael and Am Yisrael. Participants described the event as a meaningful opportunity to stand together with the broader Jewish community and demonstrate their enduring bond with Israel.
The parade brought together people
of all ages from across the region for a day of celebration, music and community spirit. Brandeis Hebrew Academy students marched alongside parents, teachers and supporters, reflecting the school’s commitment to Jewish identity, heritage and values.
School officials said the event served as a powerful reminder of the strength of the Jewish community and the importance of maintaining a connection to Israel. The day was marked by enthusiasm, pride and a shared sense of purpose as participants celebrated their heritage and expressed unwavering support for the Jewish homeland.
— Melissa Berman
HAFTR marches for Israel in annual NYC parade
Students, families, faculty and community members from Brandeis Hebrew Academy joined thousands of participants at this year’s Israel Parade, celebrating their connection to Israel and the Jewish people on May 31.
The school’s delegation marched together in a spirited display of Jewish pride and unity, waving Israeli flags and showing support for Eretz Yisrael and Am Yisrael. Participants described the event as a meaningful opportunity to stand together with the broader Jewish community and demonstrate their enduring bond with Israel.
The parade brought together people of all ages from across the region for a day of celebration, music and community spirit. Brandeis Hebrew Academy students marched alongside parents, teachers and supporters, reflecting the school’s commitment to Jewish identity, heritage and values.
School officials said the event served as a powerful reminder of the strength of the Jewish community and the importance of maintaining a connection to Israel.
— Melissa Berman
Courtesy Leslie Gang
Students, families, faculty and community members from Brandeis Hebrew Academy joined thousands of participants at this year’s Israel Parade on May 31.
Courtesy Malka Pearl
Students, parents, grandparents, faculty and alumni from the Hebrew Academy of the Five Towns and Rockaway marched in the annual Israel Day Parade on May 31.
HAFTR’s Hawks Nest hosts Ben Saraf
Hebrew Academy of the Five Towns and Rockaway’s Hawks Nest recently welcomed students from across the Five Towns for a basketball program featuring international standout and professional player Ben Saraf. Open to students in grades 2 through 8, the event combined basketball instruction with lessons centered on teamwork, leadership and community involvement.
Participants took part in hands-on clinics focused on basketball fundamentals, effort and sportsmanship while learning directly from Saraf in a highenergy environment. The program was sponsored by United Hatzalah through its Leight Legacy Heroes program, a youth and teen philanthropy initiative, along with supporters Barbara and Alan Weichselbaum.
In addition to basketball instruction, the event included a chesed component designed to highlight the importance of kindness, responsibility and giving back to the community. Organizers said the program emphasized how athletics can serve as a platform for personal growth and positive impact.
Hebrew Academy of the Five Towns and Rockaway’s Hawks Nest recently welcomed international standout and professional player Ben Saraf for a basketball program.
The event drew strong attendance from students and families throughout the Five Towns community. By the conclusion of the program, participants left with improved basketball skills as well as a sense of confidence, accomplishment and teamwork.
HAFTR officials thanked United Hatzalah, the Leight Legacy Heroes program, and Barbara and Alan Weichselbaum for helping make the event possible.
— Melissa Berman
marked their family history and traditions during the school’s annual M’dor L’dor dinner and performance.
HALB students honor their mothers and achievements
Hebrew Academy of Long Beach students recently celebrated several memorable achievements and events across the school community.
Fourth grade girls marked their family history and traditions during the school’s annual M’dor L’dor dinner and performance. The evening brought together daughters, mothers, grandmothers and great-grandmothers for a multigenerational celebration focused on heritage, connection and shared experiences.
HALB’s eighth graders also premiered their “Names, Not Numbers” documentary after spending the school year learning interviewing, filming and editing skills.
Students worked together to interview Holocaust survivors, record the conversations and edit the final film. School officials said the experience left a lasting impact on the students and created a powerful evening for attendees.
HALB’s debate team closed out the year with strong performances against Har Torah and HAFTR. Yosef Shvili earned first place speaker honors, while Yosef and Jack Spector placed third as a team.
At Lev Chana, students prepared for Shavuot with festive activities that included a visiting flower shop and decorating flower-themed cupcakes.
— Melissa Berman
Antiques/Collectibles
Improvement
EDITOR/REPORTER
Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com
MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP
Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT Inside Sales
Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $35,360 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com
Wanted
Courtesy Tanya Dagan
HALB fourth graders
Courtesy Avi Shaver
And the Experts Agree
At Mount Sinai South Nassau, patient safety isn’t just a priority— it’s a standard, one we work on every day. And the experts agree.
We’ve earned national recognition for patient safety, including an “A” Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group and the Healthgrades Patient Safety Excellence Award.
That means better outcomes for our patients with lower risk of infections or hospital acquired conditions.
When it comes to your health, nothing matters more than knowing you’re in a place where patient safety matters most.
Learn more at mountsinai.org/southnassau