Nassau Herald 01-22-2026

Courtesy

Hewlett-Woodmere School District

Eilon Bober-Tsafrir, center, and Mason O’Hare, second from left, saw their initial hypothetical investment grow by 20 percent or more during the Stock Market Game’s 90-day run.

By AIDAN WARSHAVSKY awarshavsky@liherald.com

Members of the Hewlett High School Stock Market Club added to their recent success in the national Stock Market Game, as senior Eilon Bober-Tsafrir and sophomore Mason O’Hare took first and third place on Long Island, respectively.

The game is administered by the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to improving financial literacy in students since 1977.

The online simulation takes place twice

per year, in the fall and spring, engaging students in fourth grade through high school and familiarizes them with global capital markets in preparation for financially independent futures. Bober-Tsafrir and O’Hare were two of the 4,276 participants in the Long Island region.

“The nature of the game is extremely competitive,” Bober-Tsafrir, 17, said. “You have to invest in volatile stocks and understand how they populate” — a trader’s term for when a stock becomes visible with its data or shares in a system.

Students have to think like real traders

By MELISSA BERMAN mberman@liherald.com

A permanent Holocaust memorial designed to educate future generations, confront antisemitism and preserve the memory of the 6 million Jews murdered during World War II will be built in Andrew J. Parise Park in Cedarhurst, thanks to unanimous support from village leaders and a community-wide fundraising effort.

The memorial, known as the Wall of Tears, will be constructed through a partnership between the Village of Cedarhurst and the Wall of Tears Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to Holocaust remembrance and education. It will serve as a public space for reflection, learning and remembrance.

the consequences of hatred and indifference.

“At a time when antisemitism is tragically on the rise across the globe, this monument will stand as a permanent educational resource for residents, students and visitors alike,” Weinstock wrote. “It will remind us all of the responsibility we share to confront intolerance and preserve the dignity of every human being.”

NoRM KAISH Executive director, Wall of Tears Foundation

Cedarhurst Mayor Benjamin Weinstock expressed the village’s support for the project in a letter to the foundation, noting that the memorial will stand as a visible reminder of

Unlike traditional Holocaust museums in major cities, the Wall of Tears is designed for a highly visible public space, such as a park of college campus, where people encounter it as part of everyday life. According to Norm Kaish, executive director of the Wall of Tears Foundation, headquartered in West Hempstead, the goal is to ensure that Holocaust education remains visible and accessible, even for those who may not actively seek it out.

“This was started by me as a

COnTinuEd On paGE 7

Cedarhurst ‘s Helen Pollack celebrates a century of life

By MELISSA BERMAN mberman@liherald.com

Longtime Cedarhurst resident Helen Pollack is celebrating her 100th birthday surrounded by family and friends.

Born on Jan. 28, 1926 in Brooklyn, Pollack attended Samuel J. Tilden High School. She then went to the City College of New York and received masters from Columbia University and Teacher’s College.

After graduating with her masters, she went on to teach at her alma mater Samuel J. Tilden High School. She has three children, three grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

“I have no real reason for living to 100,” Pollack said. “I can’t tell you that I did exercise, I didn’t I didn’t drink and I didn’t smoke, those were the only two assets I could say.”

Pollack said she always has a plan for the next day, which includes her biggest passion, knitting.

She also serves on the board of the Five Towns Early Learning Center in Inwood and still attends meetings.

“I’ve been very active there for over 35 years,” she said. “It’s a wonderful facility for 55 children, 20 teachers and a beautiful garden to play in.”

Among being on the board, she worked at the Peninsula Public Library giving knitting lessons to residents.

“I have known Helen for my entire 18 year career at the library,” Peninsula Public Library Director Carolynn Matulewicz wrote in an email. “I recall her fantastic knitting skills and she has made many beautiful creations for staff and their babies over the years.”

Pollack loves to read and receives her book deliveries from the library on a weekly basis.

“She is a big library supporter and has made many donations supporting library staff sponsoring staff appreciation luncheons,” Matulewicz wrote. “This a pleasure having lifelong patrons who love and support their public library. She is a remarkable woman

and so very blessed to be here for 100 years.”

Volunteering is very important to Pollack as she was very active with the National Council of Jewish Women Peninsula Section and the National Yiddish Book Center in Amherst, Massachusetts.

“I collected Yiddish books for them for 40 years,” Pollack added. “I’ve done a lot of things and I’m interested in the community.”

She has lived in the Five Towns for 55 years and is a member of Temple Beth El in Cedarhurst for over 50 years.

Rhonnie Fischman, 76, a fellow congregant became friends with Pollack during the pandemic when she would visit her in rehab.

“Our friendship developed over the years and every Saturday after temple I bring her food from Kiddush and we sit and chat,” Fischman said. “We talk on the phone everyday and discuss books.”

Fischman said that Pollack knows what she wants from life and always knows how to get it.

“Our friendship means a lot to me because it spans different generations,” she said. “My mother would have been 100 and I learn from Helen all the time, just like I would from my mother.”

Fischman serves on the board of the Five Towns Five Towns Early Learning Center alongside Pollack and being apart of it has enriched her life.

“Helen is a real life lesson in what kindness can do,” Fischman said. “Seeing her makes me feel lucky and I’m planning to be like her when I’m older.”

Pollack will be hosting an open house dessert party at her residence on Jan. 25 to commemorate her 100th birthday.

“People who know me will come and say hello,” Pollack said. “I will be happy to see people from the present and from the past. Volunteering has kept me alive it’s a wonderful way of life.”

experiencing positive effects of new cell phone ban policy

By AIDAN WARSHAVSKY awarshavsky@liherald.com

The Hewlett-Woodmere school district is seeing noticeable changes both in and outside the classroom thanks to it’s newly enacted cell phone ban, especially at the high school.

Adopted on July 23, 2025, the district’s Students and Personal Electronic Devices Policy prohibits students from utilizing smart phones or any other internet-enabled device capable of communication unauthorized by the district.

“Students are no longer walking with their heads down,” Dina Anzalone, the district’s superintendent, wrote in email. “We’re seeing their faces, watching them interact with one another, and witnessing genuine peer connections throughout the school day.”

High School Principal Al Bauer ordered traditional board games for students to explore socialization opportunities during school hours. When teachers pass through the school’s cafeteria and common area, they can see that students are developing stronger interpersonal communication skills and connections with their peers.

One student even asked Anzalone if the school could install a hallway clock, because they have become so dependent on cell phones to tell basic information like time.

“The change has been so complete,” Anzalone wrote.

The shift has also affected learning statewide and in Hewlett-Woodmere.

In November, governor Kathy Hochul governor’s office distributed a survey, recording over 350 responses from schools statewide that, like

Hewlett-Woodmere, implemented the bell-to-bell restrictions. Their study found that 92 percent reported a smooth transition to distraction-free learning, with another 83 percent finding their classroom environments more positive, promoting student engagement.

“Our kids are finding greater success in the classroom when they’re focused on learning, not scrolling,” Hochul said. Teachers, especially in Hewlett, have reported that students are more focused during lessons, complete more work in class, and participate more actively in discussions. The social atmosphere during lunch and passing periods is noticeably more vibrant, with students engaging in actual conversations rather than scrolling through social media.

“Cell phone use has decreased significantly since the policy took effect,” said Kaitlin Coder, president of the HewlettWoodmere Teachers Union. “There has been significant improvement in student learning, engagement, socialization, and everything you would expect.”

Students are still permitted to use their devices outside of school, but once it enters the building, it must be turned off and stored depending on the education level. And when contacting children during the day, the district permits phone calls to the respective school office. High School students can also communicate with their families with their district-provided email address.

District officials said they plan to continue enforcing the policy as the school year progresses. “This policy represents our commitment to creating learning environments where students can fully engage and develop the socialemotional skills essential for success,” Anzalone wrote.

A tribute show to Broadway legend Joel Grey at the HWPL

By MELISSA BERMAN mberman@liherald.com

The auditorium at Gold Hall in the Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library was filled with the iconic songs from Joel Grey’s illustrious Broadway career during “Shades of Grey: A Musical Tribute to Joel Grey.”

The show was conceived, directed, written and performed by Bob Spiotto along with musical director, special arrangements and accompaniment by Stephen Pagano.

The repertoire included songs from “The Littlest Revue,” “Stop the World- I Want to Get Off,” “Half a Sixpence,” “Cabaret,” “An American in Paris,” “George M!,” “Goodtime Charley,” “The Grand Tour,” “Chicago,” and “Wicked.”

Having over 40 years experience working in the entertainment industry Spiotto said he had always liked Joel Grey and had the background after performing as the Master of Ceremonies in “Cabaret” in high school.

“I always watched his career and watched all the things he did,” Spiotto said. “I just loved all the parts that he played and thought at some point I needed to be doing a one man musical tribute to Joel Grey.”

Spiotto worked on this tribute on an off for many years and finally decided what songs he wanted to sing and connected with Pagano off of a colleagues recommendation to solidify the music

and show order.

“Steve and I got together and it was like fireworks,” he said. “We went through it and when we were done we ere both in shock. We felt like we had a show and it was almost ready to go.”

Spiotto said he really enjoys performing this tribute show and it thankful that Joel Grey has had such a longstanding Broadway career for all the

materials available to do.

“I don’t impersonate these people I pay tribute to,” Spiotto added. ‘I just try to embody his spirit.”

Along with his spirit and passion for performing in front of a live audience, Spiotto aims to “edutain” the audience with his shows by intertwining history and trivia in to the performance.

“It’s both entertainment and educa -

tional but not to the point that people feel like they’re sitting in a lecture,” Spiotto said. “I really want them to be edutained throughout the course of it.”

Pagano has been working with Spiotto since 2011 after a personal recommendation from a colleague and ever since then they have been performing together.

“He’s just so amazingly talented,” Pagano said. “It was like fireworks when we first started working on this arrangement. We get along so good and we finish each others theatrical sentences.”

Having played the piano for 60 years, Pagano is comfortable with all of the musical medleys and loves the personal musical touches he adds to the songs.

“The quality of the music is so high and Joel Grey had such a great career,” he said. “It’s been a thrill and I can’t believe it’s been 15 years. It’s still such a joy to do it.”

This was the first time the HWPL has worked with Spiotto and Pagano and they are already in plans to schedule another performance.

“They’re professionals and it was so much more than I expected, I’m really delighted,” said Marie Drucker, librarian and programs director at the HWPL.

The Lynbrook Public Library recommended Spiotto to Drucker.

“We have very sophisticated audiences here and they love music,” she said. “I think this just fit right in with the neighborhood.”

A Baker’s Dozen Reasons to Use a Trust

Crime watCh

Two arrested at traffic stop

According to the NCPD, three people were arrested after a traffic stop on Peninsula Boulevard in Hewlett led police to recover suspected narcotics and connect two of the suspects to an earlier shoplifting incident in Oceanside, on Jan. 18 at 3:31 p.m.

According to detectives, Bureau of Special Operations officers were on routine patrol when they observed a 2017 Nissan Altima traveling southbound on Peninsula Boulevard and changing lanes unsafely. Officers conducted a vehicle and traffic law stop.

Police said the driver, Louis Wilson, 28, of Oyster Bay, was found to be in possession of substances believed to be crack cocaine and heroin. Two passengers Hasheem D. Foster, 36, of Hempstead, and Ana Bonilla, 33, also of Hempstead were also found to be in possession of suspected crack cocaine and heroin. Bonilla allegedly provided officers with false identifying information at the scene.

All three were taken into custody without incident.

Further investigation determined that Wilson and Bonilla were involved in a larceny earlier that day at the Ulta Beauty store at 3203 Long Beach Road in Oceanside. The incident occurred at 12:10 p.m.

The Art of Negotiation

Foster is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third, fourth and seventh degrees, tampering with physical evidence and six additional counts of seventh-degree possession.

Wilson is charged with fourth-degree grand larceny, criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third, fourth and seventh degrees, tampering with physical evidence, six additional counts of seventh-degree possession and multiple vehicle and traffic law violations.

Wilson and Foster were arraigned at First District Court in Hempstead on Jan. 19.

Bonilla is charged with fourth-degree grand larceny, six counts of seventh-

charges until and unless found guilty in a

degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and false personation. She was released on an appearance ticket to return on Feb. 9.

EMILY McGOWAN SEAFORD Junior BASKETBALL

PICKING UP WHERE she left off last winter when she earned All-County honors as well as Conference Player of the Year honors after leading the Vikings to 15 wins, McGowan ranks among Nassau’s top 20 scorers at 15.8 points per game as Seaford sits in the driver’s seat in Conference 7 with a 6-0 record (8-4 overall.) She scored in double figures in nine of the first dozen games as well as served as a key figure on the defensive end.

games to watch

Thursday, Jan. 22

Girls Basketball: Plainedge at Seaford 5 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Carey at V.S. North 5 p.m.

Boys Basketball: C.S. Harbor at Malverne 7:00 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 23

Girls Basketball: Baldwin at Farmingdale 5 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Uniondale at Hempstead 5 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Massapequa at Syosset 5 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Wantagh at V.S. North 5 p.m.

Girls Basketball: North Shore at Malverne 6 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Jericho at Calhoun 6:45 p.m.

Girls Basketball: MacArthur at Long Beach 6:45 p.m.

Boys Basketball: Port Wash at E.Meadow 6:45 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Plainview at Freeport 6:45 p.m.

Girls Basketball: Oceanside at Massapequa 6:45 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 24

Girls Basketball: West Hemp at East Rock 10 a.m.

Boys Basketball: Malverne at North Shore 11:45 a.m.

Girls Basketball: Clarke at Sewanhaka 11:45 a.m.

Girls Basketball: Elmont at South Side 11:45 a.m.

Girls Basketball: Plainedge at V.S. South 11:45 a.m.

Boys Basketball: East Rock at West Hemp 11:45 a.m.

Boys Basketball: Herricks at Oceanside 1 p.m.

Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”

High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a winter sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season.

Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.

Mepham’s defense slows Hewlett

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

Mepham used a dominant defensive second half and a commanding effort on the boards to secure a 49-37 girls basketball victory over Hewlett Jan. 14, improving to 8-5 overall and 4-1 in Conference AA-2

The Bulldogs fell to 2-8 (2-3 in AA-2) despite keeping the game tight early.

Mepham entered halftime with a slim 27-23 advantage after a competitive first half in which both teams traded baskets and fought for momentum. Hewlett stayed within striking distance behind balanced scoring, led by Mia Koloden’s 10 points and Emma Kresler’s 8, while Mepham relied on contributions across the lineup to maintain its lead.

The tone of the game shifted after halftime as Mepham made a key defensive adjustment. Head coach Jim Mulvey switched from a zone to man-to-man coverage, assigning sophomore guard Alexis Honkercamp and freshman guard Christina Eromon to guard Hewlett’s top scoring threats. The change paid immediate dividends, as the visitors struggled to generate clean looks and was limited to just 14 second-half points.

“I thought our defense really stepped up in the second half,” Mulvey said. “We came out of our zone and decided to man up and had Alexis and Christina guard the two best players on their team. Everyone after halftime decided to step up and take on the responsibility.”

Offensively, Mepham continued to find success through a balanced attack. Eromon led the Pirates with 11 points, showcasing poise and confidence well beyond her years. Honkercamp matched her with 11 points and delivered a dominant performance in the paint with 20 rebounds.

Sophomore guard Bree McGovern added 8 points, while junior guard Mia Troiano and Olivia Lettieri each chipped in 6. Sophomore guard Maria Kiropoulos and senior forward Angelina Katsalas provided valuable minutes off the bench, helping Mepham control the tempo late.

Honkercamp’s physical presence proved to be the difference, as Mepham

repeatedly capitalized on second- and third-chance opportunities. Hewlett head coach Alex Pallatto pointed to rebounding as the deciding factor.

“They outworked us and in the rebounding battle they killed us,” Pallatto said. “When you give a team second- and third-chance opportunities, they’re going to score. That was the difference in the game.”

Despite the loss, Pallatto praised his team’s effort against Mepham’s aggressive defense. “This is the first time we’ve had a team really attack us defensively and we had players step up and kept it close, so I’m proud of them for that,” he said. Those contributions came from

Kayla Owens, who finished with 7 points, while Yalin Megira had 5, Angelina Batista scored 4, and Ella Fahy 3. For Mepham, the win reflected the team’s commitment to daily improvement as it battles Roslyn and Garden City for the AA-2 title.

“We always say the goal is to go 1-0 today,” Mulvey said. “This was a good team we just played, so it was a good win for sure.”

Honkercamp echoed that sentiment. “I thought we played really well tonight,” she said. “We worked hard and it was great to see the effort lead to a win. My mindset was to always go up and be physical for the ball no matter what.”

Courtesy Roy DiMarco

A rendering, above, of what the first Wall of Tears memorial, at Andrew J. Parise Park, in Cedarhurst, will look like.

Cedarhurst partners with nonprofit foundation

foundation in 2024,” Kaish said. “We had designed a memorial that teaches about antisemitism using the Holocaust’s historic information.”

The plan is for the Cedarhurst memorial to be completed by the end of the year, depending on fundraising.

“For us it was very important because it goes to a very prominent location in our park, and it will be visible to all members of our community,” Weinstock said. “We’re in an area that has a high Jewish population in general, and there are a fair number of survivors in our community.”

The memorial’s centerpiece will be a large stone wall etched with a map of Europe showing Jewish population centers before and after the Holocaust. Individual plaques will detail the experiences of Jewish communities between 1938 and 1945, drawing from archival materials from Yad Vashem, Israel’s Holocaust museum, on Jerusalem’s Mount Herzl; the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, in Washington D.C.; and other sources.

An eternal flame will burn atop the monument, symbolizing the victims who have no graves or known dates of death. Water droplets — described by the foundation as “tears” — will cascade behind the plaques.

“It’s a very important teaching tool, because it helps teach the events of the Holocaust to children who have no real connection to it,” Weinstock said. “We’re hoping this is a way of engaging the younger people and for it to have some visceral impact.”

The memorial, Kaish said, is meant to do more than commemorate the past. It is designed to encourage moral reflection and dialogue, particularly as studies show Holocaust knowledge fading among younger generations.

“This importance of the Cedarhurst project is being the first one,” Kaish said. “It gives us an opportunity to bring

college presidents to see something in action.”

In addition to Holocaust history, several panels on the memorial will address the broader dangers of antisemitism and discrimination, emphasizing how unchecked hatred can escalate into violence.

The total cost of the structure is estimated at $350,000, of which roughly $50,000 has been pledged. The project will be entirely community-funded, and all donations to the foundation are taxdeductible.

The Village of Cedarhurst will assist with logistical coordination, while the foundation will oversee fundraising, construction and educational integration once the memorial is completed. Organizers expect the site to be used by schools, synagogues and community organizations across the Five Towns.

“We’d like to be able to touch each one of the survivors and the survivors’ children,” Kaish said. “Not only from the standpoint of the memorial, but also for their support. This is going to be supported by the community itself.”

The foundation is working with the Marion & Aaron Gural JCC, in Cedarhurst in collaboration with the various Holocaust survivors programs it offers.

“I was very happy to hear that they’re bringing this to Cedarhurst Park,” Stacey Feldman, executive director of the JCC, said. “Our program participants would love to be at the groundbreaking and opening, and to share their stories.”

Feldman praised that the memorial’s planned modernization of the Holocaust, and its potential impact on fighting antisemitism. “There are so many survivors that come from our community,” she said. “It makes such a beautiful tribute to their memory and honor to have such a fantastic project right here in Cedarhurst.”

For more information about the project or to donate, visit walloftears.org.

Nostra Aetate at 60

CELEBRATING CATHOLIC-JEWISH RELATIONS

TUESDAY, JANUARY 27, 2026 | 3:00 P.M. –  4:30 P.M.

MOLLOY UNIVERSITY | 1000 HEMPSTEAD AVENUE

ROCKVILLE CENTRE, NY

Please join Molloy University and AJC Long Island for a fascinating conversation with Rev. Walter F. Kedjierski, pastor of the Church of St. Dominic in Oyster Bay, and Rabbi Noam Marans, AJC Director of Interreligious Affairs, as they discuss the implications of the Nostra Aetate declaration and how it has impacted Catholic-Jewish relations in the past sixty years.

Scan the QR code to register

Hochul delivers her fifth State of the State

By ROKSANA AMID ramid@liherald.com

Gov. Kathy Hochul used her 2026 State of the State address Jan. 13 to present an ambitious agenda focused on affordability, public safety and social services — while Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, her likely Republican challenger in this year’s gubernatorial race, sharply criticized the speech and questioned her record in office.

The state of the state of New York is strong, and we’re just getting started.

“The state of the state of New York is strong, and we’re just getting started,” Hochul said in her fifth State of the State, at Albany’s Hart Theater, framing the coming year as one focused on easing the financial strain on families while continuing investments in safety, housing and infrastructure.

GOv. KATHy HOcHul

At the core of Hochul’s address was a renewed push for universal child care, which she described as the most pressing affordability issue facing working families. The governor outlined plans to expand prekindergarten statewide, with the goal of achieving universal pre-K for 4-year-olds by 2028, while piloting yearround, full-day child care for children from birth to age 3.

“This plan will ultimately deliver universal child care for every family in New York, full stop,” Hochul said, drawing sustained applause.

She cited the high cost of care, particularly in New York City, where annual expenses can range from $26,000 to $40,000, calling the burden “almost impossible” for many parents. Hochul said the state would expand subsidies, strengthen its voucher system and improve tax incentives for employers who invest in child care benefits.

Beyond child care, Hochul framed affordability as a broader economic challenge, pointing to proposals aimed at lowering utility and auto insurance costs. She said the state would crack down on staged car accidents and insurance fraud, streamline utility assistance programs and protect consumers from steep rate hikes, while continuing investments in clean energy.

Housing, infrastructure, public safety

Housing and infrastructure were also key pillars of the address. Hochul announced an additional $250 million investment in affordable housing and $100 million for manufactured housing, while reiterating her administration’s commitment to cutting red tape that she said has slowed development for decades.

Under her Let Them Build initiative, Hochul said the state would modernize environmental review processes to accelerate housing, clean energy and

infrastructure projects.

“We’re changing the culture around building, brick by brick,” she said, noting that more than 400 communities have signed on as “pro-housing” municipalities eligible for state funding.

Public safety was another major focus. Hochul pointed to more than $3 billion in state investments in police and public safety over the past four years and said crime, including shootings, homicides and subway crime, has declined statewide.

“We’ll never be satisfied,” Hochul said, outlining plans to expand crime analysis centers, increase police patrols in subway stations, install platform barriers at 85 additional stations and grow mental health response teams that pair law enforcement with clinical professionals.

On gun violence, Hochul proposed a first-in-the-nation law requiring 3D printers sold in New York to include software that blocks the production of firearms, targeting so-called “ghost guns.” She also called for restrictions on handguns that can be converted into automatic weapons.

“Not here. Not in New York,” she said. “That’s how we save lives and fight crime.”

Immigration, civil rights, federal tensions

Hochul also used her address to draw a sharp contrast with President Trump and federal immigration enforcement

County Executive Bruce

spoke after Hochul’s address, criticizing her agenda and calling for tax credits for working families with children.

child care affordability and instead proposed tax credits for working parents, though he did not offer specific details. He said those credits would be worth more than those proposed by Hochul. He also criticized Hochul’s handling of the migrant crisis, pointing to what he described as nearly $5 billion in state spending to manage the influx of asylum seekers, largely centered in New York City.

policies. She said New York would not allow the use of state resources to assist in federal immigration raids involving people who have not committed serious crimes, and would bar U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents from entering schools, day cares, hospitals and houses of worship without a judicial warrant.

“We will not bow to a wannabe king,” Hochul said, adding that congestion pricing in New York City “is staying on.”

The governor also proposed legislation that would allow New Yorkers to sue federal officers in state court for alleged violations of their constitutional rights, framing the measure as a safeguard against abuses of power.

Blakeman’s rebuttal sharpens political contrast

An hour after Hochul’s address, Blakeman delivered a blistering rebuttal from Nassau GOP headquarters in Westbury, calling the governor’s remarks “the most unbelievable speech” he had ever heard.

“There was nothing in that speech that was believable,” Blakeman said. “I thought I was watching a ‘Saturday Night Live’ skit.”

He accused Hochul of failing to deliver results during her four years in office, particularly on child care. While Hochul outlined expanded subsidies and universal pre-K, Blakeman said the governor had “done nothing” to address

“She’s helping people who have been in the state for 15 minutes,” Blakeman said, arguing that Hochul’s policies have contributed to population and business losses.

The two leaders also diverge sharply on immigration enforcement. Blakeman has touted Nassau County’s cooperation with ICE, while Hochul is proposing legislation allowing New Yorkers to sue federal officers who violate their civil rights.

Shortly after his swearing-in this week, Blakeman signed Nassau County’s Religious Safety Act into law, banning protests within 35 feet of houses of worship around service times. Hochul, meanwhile, proposed a statewide ban on protests within 25 feet of religious property lines, saying worshippers should be able to pray “without fear or harassment.”

As Blakeman positions himself for a statewide run, political analysts note the challenge ahead. Long Island accounts for nearly one-fifth of New York’s electorate, with about 2.1 million active voters, but Blakeman will need to expand his appeal beyond his local base to attract swing voters upstate.

Hochul’s full agenda — more than 200 proposals spanning housing, energy policy, artificial intelligence regulation, youth mental health and consumer protections — will be detailed further when she releases her executive budget next week, setting the stage for a high-stakes gubernatorial race.

Blakeman is sworn in to his second term

By MOHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman was sworn in to a second term at the county’s 2026 inauguration ceremony at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City last week, and afterward signed new safety legislation.

The Jan. 12 ceremony was attended by hundreds, including elected officials, law enforcement representatives and clergy members.

Elaine Phillips and Maureen O’Connell were also sworn in to new terms as county comptroller and county clerk, respectively.

Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor

Joseph Saladino led the ceremony, introducing a number of esteemed speakers, stakeholders and performers including Father Gerard Gordon, senior chaplain of the Nassau County Police Department, as well as Mary Millben, an internationally known performer who sang the national anthem.

Religious leaders representing both Judaism and Christianity took part in the ceremony, with Rabbi Mordechai Kamenetzky, of Yeshiva of South Shore, delivering the invocation and Gordon offering the benediction.

The ceremony opened with a presentation of colors by members of the Nassau County Police Department, the

Tim Baker/Herald

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman spoke after being sworn in during the county’s 2026 inauguration ceremony on Jan. 12. Following his remarks, Blakeman signed new legislation aimed at protecting worshippers at religious institutions.

County Sheriff’s Department, the Nassau County Fire Marshal’s Office and the Emerald Society Pipes and Drums, alongside Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 82.

Nassau County Chief Fire Marshal Michael Uttaro led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a moment of silence

honoring those who have served in public service and the armed forces.

Musical selections were also provided by international vocalist Christopher Macchio, who sang “Hallelujah,” by Leonard Cohen.

“I would like to thank Hashem — God — for giving me the strength to serve as

your county executive,” Blakeman said in his remarks after his swearing in, which was conducted by his wife, Segal Blakeman, a Nassau County Family Court judge. “It’s only through the strength of God that I have the ability to serve, and I recognize that each and every day.”

“[We supported] our law enforcement, hired 600 law professionals, canceled a $150 million tax increase, didn’t raise taxes for four years, and earned seven bond upgrades,” he added, touting the achievements of his first term. “That’s unprecedented.”

Following his swearing in, Blakeman signed a bill previously approved by county legislators meant to add protection for worshippers at religious institutions. The bill prohibits demonstrations from occurring within 10 feet of a person entering or exiting a place of religious worship. It also prevents demonstrations within 35 feet of an entrance to a religious institution in the hour before a scheduled service and the hour after it ends.

“You know how I feel about religious freedom,” Blakeman said. “And the ability for people to be able to worship in their mosque, their church, their synagogue, their temple. And therefore we will protect those institutions, and we will protect people’s rights to worship freely here in the Nassau County.”

Hewlett’s basketball classic for Rowyn Grace

hewlett High School hosted the Rowyn Grace Classic on Jan. 10, an all-day event which benefits Rowyn Grace Welsh, a two-year-old with chronic kidney disease. She is also the youngest daughter of Hewlett boys basketball assistant coach Jonathan Welsh.

The classic included four games where the girls faced Jericho High School, and the boys teams squared off against Long Beach High School.

The school’s softball program, which Welsh took over in 2023, sold merchandise as well, with proceeds going directly to the family.

In addition to the effects on her kidneys, the two-year-old also suffers from a rare, life-altering mutation in her collagen type IV alpha 1 (COL4A1) gene—a mutation which weakens blood vessels.

During her battle,the two-yearold has endured multiple appointments at numerous hospitals, including Raleigh N.C’s Duke Children’s hospital, Stony Brook Medical Center, and now Columbia children’s Hospital.

“Her body is essentially missing the ‘glue’ that holds her together.” Welsh said of her daughter’s condition. “This isn’t just a kidney issue anymore—it is a systemic threat that puts her at constant risk for internal bleeding and organ failure.”

— Melissa Berman

CATHOLIC SHOOLS WEEK

Live your faith and share it with others

Students put moral values to work in their lives every day

Strong spiritual guidance is an essential part of daily activities at Long Island’s Catholic schools, creating a special sense of community among children, families, teachers, and the local parish, which reinforces moral values and an abiding respect for others. Resourceful instructors use powerful spiritual teachings and real-world experiences to bring these values to life for children, while our smaller classes allow for more personalized and productive interaction between students and teachers.

The timeless values that create better prepared, more capable, and more confident young adults. An important part of your child’s program is the learning of values. This is often the most easily observable difference in a ‘Catholic school kid’.

While the specific order and organization of when these values are taught might differ from school-to-school, the values and the discipline to live them are enduring qualities and are taught consistently across all Catholic elementary schools.

Kindergarten – Courtesy and Respect: Learning the importance of politeness and good manners in dealing with others, as well as the need to respect one another, and personal and public property.

First Grade – Punctuality and Neatness: Being on time for school and with assignments and being neat in both school work and homework.

Second Grade – Kindness and Generosity: Understanding the need to reach out and help one another and realizing the joy in giving more than is expected.

Third Grade – Hard Work and Perseverance: Recognizing the importance of diligence and a good work attitude, the satisfaction of doing our best and the need to keep trying despite obstacles.

Fourth Grade – Honesty and Responsibility: Being truthful and keeping our word, doing the right thing even when no one else is looking, accepting the consequences of our actions and

meeting our obligations.

Fifth Grade – Patience and Discipline: Learning to be patient with ourselves and others, saying “yes” to the right things and “no” to the wrong things, and taking charge of ourselves by controlling our actions and emotions.

Sixth Grade – Tolerance and Justice: Learning to accept and appreciate the differences in others and treating them with equality and fairness.

Seventh Grade – Thoughtfulness and Compassion: Understanding the needs and feeling of others and treating them with equality and fairness.

Eighth Grade – Loyalty and Courage: Caring about our relationships with others and being willing to show it through our actions; having the strength and will to do what is right even when we’re afraid or it’s unpopular.

WHY CHOOSE OUR LADY OF PEACE SCHOOL?

Rooted in the tradition of the Sisters of Mercy, OLP accepts the call to educate the whole child in the spirit of service and compassion.

OLP offers a rigorous, foundational curriculum in ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies, Spanish, STEM and special classes seamlessly integrated with daily prayer.

OLP strives as a community, coupled with God’s love, to inspire each child to grow spiritually and academically in a diverse and increasingly challenging world. We emphasize respect, responsibility, and service to foster a positive, safe and disciplined learning environment.

OLP offers opportunities for Student Council, Service Projects, Extra Curriculum Activities - Sports Clubs, Art Club, Drama Club which build confidence, teamwork, and leadership qualities.

News briefs

Former Village of Lawrence Mayor Martin Oliner files motion in $190 million lawsuit

Herald File Photo

Former Village of Lawrence Mayor Martin Oliner filed a lawsuit against the Town of Hempstead to stop the transit oriented development project near the Inwood and Lawrence train stations.

Former Village of Lawrence Mayor Martin Oliner has filed a motion to intervene in a $190 million federal lawsuit brought by developers against the Town of Hempstead, seeking to block a proposed 300-plus-unit high-density development near the Lawrence and Inwood Long Island Rail Road stations.

Oliner’s filing aims to represent thousands of Five Towns residents who oppose the project and say their interests are not being adequately defended by the town.

“I’m involved in this because it’s impor-

tant that this project not take place,” Oliner said. “We live in a suburban community and there’s no place for a rental unit of any sort in the community. We want people who don’t wander in and out.”

The lawsuit stems from the Town Board’s unanimous Nov. 19, 2024 vote to repeal the Transit Oriented Development ordinance that would have allowed the project. Although a state court later invalidated the repeal on procedural grounds, the town has not taken action to correct the defect and re-enact the repeal — despite having the authority and political support to do so.

Oliner argues the delay leaves the community vulnerable and undermines the town’s stated opposition to the project. His motion cites findings from the town’s own independent consultant, Nelson, Pope & Voorhis, which concluded the TOD ordinance was inadequately reviewed, relied on flawed traffic studies, lacked consultation with emergency services, and should have been rescinded or subjected to a full environmental impact review.

“In this lawsuit, I take the position to intervene because the Town should have voted again and filed the administrative error,” he said. “There’s too much politics going on and not enough being said straight forward.”

The motion also challenges the legal foundation of the developers’ federal claims, noting that a state court already rejected the developers’ assertion that they had a vested right to proceed with the project. Without such a vested right, Oliner argues, the basis for the $190 million damages claim collapses.

Oliner is seeking intervention under federal rules to ensure community interests are represented, particularly given concerns that a settlement could advance the development without public input. He said the filing is intended to give residents a voice in a case that could reshape the Five Towns and revive a zoning ordinance he said “should never have been passed.”

“The people in Inwood and Lawrence are against this project, especially when it’s not safe,” Oliner said.

— Melissa Berman

Hewlett House holds annual holiday party

County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Councilwoman Dorothy Goosby attended the annual Hewlett House holiday party on Jan. 10.

Over the past two and a half decades, Hewlett House has treated over 42,000 people with breast cancer. It supports cancer patients at every stage of treatment and offers educational materials, 24/7 peer support and a network of cancer survivors and health professionals.

Hewlett House works with a number of hospitals and health care systems, including Mount Sinai South Nassau, Northwell Health and NYU Langone.

— Melissa Berman

Winners add to years of district success

during a 90-day competition window. Each contestant starts with $100,000 in virtual seed money, and is tasked with maximizing the growth of his or her account.

Bober-Tsafrir has taken part in the game since his freshman year. Last fall, he managed to increase his portfolio by nearly 61 percent, dueling for the top prize on Long Island with a student from Great Neck North High School. Bober-Tsafrir spent a lot of time looking at chart patterns, he said, researching stocks that could “shoot up 100 percent in a day.”

Bober-Tsafrir, who is president of the school’s Business and Marketing Honor Society, always encourages his classmates to get involved in the game and investing. He reminds them “the failures are steppingstones to success.”

“I think it’s very important to help kids invest during their time in the club,” he said. “It’s an opportunity to help the students feel comfortable investing, and give them the tools to be successful.”

“Eilon is fantastic,” Stock Market Club Adviser Jared Pittelli, who has taught business education at the high school for 16 years, said of Bober-Tsafrir. “Loves to participate and ask questions. He’s very motivated.” Before the game ended on Dec. 12, BoberTsafrir told Pittelli, “I’m going to win.”

“It was a culmination of the last four years,” BoberTsafrir said. “I saw a path to winning.”

The 15-year old O’Hare’s path to the top was different. He eventually grew his account by nearly $24,000, moving up and down in the regional standings after starting out strong. He finished eighth in the state but third on L.I and, Pittelli said, he was focused “like usual.”

“He’s very outgoing,” Pittelli said of O’Hare, whom he has taught previously. “He’s a pleasure to teach.”

Success in the Stock Market Game is nothing new to the district, especially in the past three years. BoberTsafrir became the third Hewlett High Stock Market Club winner to finish first in the state, joining alumni Joshua Sepe — who won three times in 2023 and 2024 — and Jacob Yamen, who won in the fall of 2024.

Part of club members’ success stems from Pittelli’s “help, don’t show” approach with his 50 members, which, he said, encourages students to become independent thinkers and stock analysts.

“The curriculum students learn in the classroom, group discussion, my discussion, and how much research they do on their own contribute to their success,” he said.

Pittelli wants students to understand what’s happening in the market, and how it can influence both the game and their real-life investments. “I want students to think about how all the news that comes out can impact businesses positively and negatively,” he said. “We’re looking at a three-month window. Is this something that will be good right now?”

In a statement, the district praised Bober-Tsafrir and O’Hare, saying it was proud to celebrate their performance. “Congratulations to Eilon and Mason on this impressive achievement, and for representing Hewlett-Woodmere with excellence,” the statement read.

As the spring competition approaches, Bober-Tsafrir said he wants to work with younger students to make them savvy investors. “I try to help students understand the stock market outside the context of the game,” he explained. “I want to help give them the tools to be successful, so that it follows with them.”

Nominate your favorite local business for the 2026 Long Island Choice Awards

Small businesses bring life to our communities. They are the restaurants, shops, and services that make each neighborhood unique and keep our local economy strong.

PSEG Long Island is proud to once again sponsor the Long Island Choice Awards, presented by the Herald, honoring the resilience, innovation, and dedication of local businesses across our region.

In 2026, PSEG Long Island’s commitment to helping small businesses grow is stronger than ever. Through our Business First platform, we provide resources and incentives that make a real difference. Programs like Vacant Space Revival help fill empty storefronts, Main Street Revitalization strengthens downtown districts, and Business First Advocates meet directly with owners to connect them to energy savings and business support.

Now it’s your turn to help celebrate the businesses that make Long Island thrive. Nominate your favorite local spots, your family-owned bakery, the boutique you love, or the service provider that always goes the extra mile. Your nomination helps give them the recognition they deserve and shines a light on the people and places that make our community stronger.

When small businesses thrive, we all thrive. Join us in celebrating their impact by submitting your nominations for the 2026 Long Island Choice Awards today.

Thank you,

Sincerely,

Scott Jennings, President & COO PSEG Long Island

News briefs

St. John’s Episcopal Hospital reduces energy and emissions in their infrastructure

Episcopal Health Services announced significant energy and emissions reductions at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital following a major infrastructure modernization project aimed at improving sustainability and long-term reliability.

According to EHS, the three-year, $25 million mechanical and infrastructure upgrade has already resulted in a 28 percent reduction in energy use and a 22.5 percent drop in carbon emissions. The project, overseen by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York and

guaranteed by DCO Energy, is more than 90 percent complete and is expected to be finished in the first quarter of 2026. Once completed, it is projected to generate approximately $674,000 in annual savings.

“Fortifying our core infrastructure while significantly reducing our environmental impact is central to our vision for the future of this health system,” Dr. Donald T. Morrish, chief executive officer of Episcopal Health Services wrote in a news release. “This investment ensures we are prepared to meet the needs of our commu-

nity not just today, but for years to come.”

The modernization focuses on upgrading essential mechanical systems throughout the hospital, including new HVAC units, boilers, chillers, transformers and energy-efficient lighting. Improvements were also made to water-flow management, and a building management system was installed to monitor and optimize environmental performance across the facility.

EHS officials said the upgrades are already delivering benefits, including

Episcopal Health

has announced a 28 percent drop in energy use and a 22.5 percent reduction in carbon emissions following a $25 million modernization project at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital.

improved air quality, reduced energy consumption and increased system reliability. Patient comfort has also been enhanced with the addition of independent temperature controls in patient rooms.

Karen Paige, executive vice president and chief operating officer of EHS, said the improvements strengthen the hospital’s ability to operate efficiently and reliably while supporting sustainability goals.

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Additional recent capital improvements include renovations to 45 bathrooms and 14 on-call rooms, expanded overflow capacity for the Labor and Delivery Suite, and the relocation and expansion of the hospital’s communications room. Fire alarm systems throughout the facility are also being upgraded with advanced life-safety technology.

EHS officials said the project reflects a broader, multi-year strategy focused on infrastructure modernization, environmental responsibility and high-quality patient care.

— Melissa Berman

HAFTR students learn about paleontology

Hebrew Academy of the Five Towns and Rockaway students got a firsthand look at the world of paleontology during a recent visit from Richard Laub, a paleontologist and HAFTR grandparent.

Laub shared stories from his fieldwork, walking students through the process of uncovering fossils and reconstructing clues about life thousands and even millions of years ago. He explained how fossils are excavated, analyzed and interpreted, giving students insight into the careful, methodical work behind major scientific discoveries. Through his experiences, Laub emphasized the importance of perseverance, critical thinking and curiosity in scientific exploration. His visit encouraged students to think like scientists and showed how asking questions and following evidence can lead to a deeper understanding of the natural world.

STEPPING OUT

Feelings come to life

Inside the world of ‘Inside Out’ at Long Island Children’s Museum

By Abbey Salvemini

Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust, and Fear are in the spotlight. The vibrant world of Disney Pixar’s beloved film springs to life in “Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out,” a traveling, hands-on exhibit developed by the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. Now ensconced at Long Island Children’s Museum, the exhibition invites kids — and adults too — to step inside the film’s emotional landscape and explore how feelings shape the way we think, act, and connect. Running through May 10, it blends play and learning to help young visitors understand the important role emotions, memory and imagination play in our everyday lives.

Designed to spark curiosity and conversation, the exhibit transforms familiar moments from the film into immersive learning experiences. Visitors can step into “headquarters,” create glowing memory spheres and experiment with how emotions interact through physical and digital play.

• Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

• View the LICM events calendar at licm.org for additional information or call (516) 224-5800

• Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City

According to Margo Malter, the museum’s director of exhibits, the opportunity to bring “Emotions at Play” here is especially meaningful since it offers a playful way to interpret the movie’s ideas that resonate with children and families.

“All of the activities are very open-ended and hands-on, which is really what the museum is all about,” says Malter.

Transforming “Inside Out” into a hands-on learning experience required a thoughtful balance between storytelling and play. Rather than focusing on passive observation, it’s designed to invite children to actively engage with emotions. Developed in collaboration with Pixar Animation Studios, the exhibit features iconic set pieces directly inspired by the film.

Everyone will instantly recognize and gravitate toward the immersive recreations of scenes inspired by “Inside Out.” At the Control Panel kids can pull levers and press buttons to explore the intensity of different emotions, while Emotions in Motion welcomes kids to place a memory sphere — just like in the movie — into a large, interactive machine.

Additional experiences deepen the emotional journey. Emotion Mirrors spring to life as guests step in front of them, triggering appearances by familiar “Inside Out” characters. At Range of Emotions, facial expressions are captured and identified on a screen, helping children connect expressions with feelings. A nearby writing station encourages reflection, inviting participants to choose colored paper that represents the emotions they want to express or explore.

From the vibrant color palette to the instantly recognizable environments, the installation captures the spirit of the film while staying true to the museum’s mission.

“For kids this age [2-10], it’s really about naming

A child adds colorful paper to the Long Term Memory wall, creating a glowing display inside “Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out.”

At the Control Panel, use buttons and levers to explore how emotions guide our reactions.

Everyone works together at a hands-on balance and teamwork challenge. A young visitor tries the Range of Emotions activity, exploring how feelings can look and sound different.

emotions and helping them give words to the feelings they are feeling,” Malter says. “Play is really the language of children and how they learn.”

Always, complementary programming enriches the exhibit experience. Children can create their own “memory orbs” inspired by the film or craft personalized “headquarters hats,” extending the themes of “Inside Out” beyond the gallery. Malter underscores the importance of hands-on creativity, noting the value of giving children the chance to make something tangible — an experience, and a keepsake — they can proudly take home.

At its heart, “Inside Out” delivers a powerful message: every emotion has value and a purpose. The exhibit brings that idea to life by creating a welcoming, judgment-free environment where children can explore feelings openly.

“This [exhibit] gives kids a safe space to have those conversations and for parents to give guidance,” Malter adds.

Ultimately, Malter hopes the exhibit does more than entertain for an afternoon — she envisions it as a catalyst for meaningful conversations that continue long after families leave the museum. By giving children age-appropriate tools to recognize, name and understand their emotions, the experience helps build emotional awareness and empathy at an early stage. Through hands-on activities and familiar characters, complex feelings are made accessible and relatable, encouraging children to express themselves with confidence. The result is an environment where learning feels intuitive, playful and engaging, while quietly reinforcing skills that support communication, resilience and healthy social development.

Building on the momentum of “Emotions at Play,” the museum will soon be rolling out an engaging lineup of family-friendly performances. In February and March, “Pete the Cat” arrives on its stage. Join the groovy blue feline and his pal Jimmy Biddle on an art-filled adventure that travels from New York to Paris, blending music, imagination and plenty of toe-tapping fun. The excitement continues in April and May with the return of “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical.” Based on Mo Willems’ wildly popular books and featuring music by Deborah Wicks La Puma, the high-energy production invites young audiences to follow the mischievous Pigeon in a lively, interactive theatrical experience.

Together, these performances — alongside the gallery exhibits that includie the newest permanent installation “Saltwater Stories” — offer families even more reasons to return. With a dynamic mix of theater, interactive learning and creative play, the museum continues to be a vibrant hub for discovery and family fun throughout 2026.

Ballet Hispánico’s CARMEN.maquia

Ballet Hispánico visits Tilles Center with a captivating performance that demonstrates the vitality and artistry that define the company’s work. The stunning evening-length CARMEN. maquia, offers a look at the repertory that established Ballet Hispánico as a transformative force in American dance. Since her debut in 1875, Carmen, the titular character from Bizet’s opera, has become a timeless cultural icon, inspiring generations of composers, choreographers and writers to attempt to capture her elusive and alluring nature. Highly original and full of explosive movement, this is a bold reimagining of her tragic tale. The physically charged and sensual choreography fuses contemporary dance with nods to the Spanish paso doble and flamenco. Ballet Hispánico was born from a bold vision to transform the world through the power of dance and reimagine how Latin culture is celebrated on the global stage.

Friday, Jan. 23, 8 p.m. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

Art talk

Nassau County Museum of Art welcomes New York–based artist Dee Shapiro for an engaging conversation about her work featured in the “Real, Surreal, and Photoreal” exhibition. Known for her meticulously detailed paintings, Shapiro explores the interplay of geometry, architecture and a powerful sense of place, drawing viewers into scenes that feel both familiar and quietly otherworldly. During her session, Shapiro discusses selections from her City and Landscapes series, revealing how she captures the rhythm, structure and subtle poetry of urban streetscapes and natural environments alike. Her work balances precision with atmosphere, inviting close looking and fresh perspectives on spaces we often take for granted. With what appears to be a strong impetus to constantly re-invent her painterly vocabulary, her work keeps us on our toes with each of her series which she sees overall as evoking an alternate reality with absurd connection. Limited seating, so register in advance.

Sunday, Jan 25, 3 p.m. $20, $15 seniors, $10 students (members free). 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor. Register at nassaumuseum.org or call (516) 484-9337.

Your NEIGHBORHOOD CALENDAR

On Exhibit

JAN

22

Nassau County Museum of Art invites visitors into a world where reality is uncertain, dreams take shape, and the line between fact and imagination disappears. Works in “Real, Surreal, and Photoreal” challenge what we see and what we believe. Before abstraction took the spotlight in the mid-20th century, American art was defined by Realism — artists captured the world as they saw it. As abstraction rose, Realism never disappeared; it evolved. This exhibit explores how artists across generations have reimagined “the real” in strikinglyv different ways. On view through March 8.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: Ongoing

• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

‘Anastasia The New Musical’

Molloy Performing Arts Club stages the musical inspired by the films.

From Tony winners Terrence McNally, Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens, creators of such Broadway classics as Ragtime and Once On This Island, this dazzling show transports its audience from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya enlists the aid of a dashing con man and a lovable ex-aristocrat. Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love and family.

• Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre

• Time: 7 p.m.; also Jan. 23, 8 p.m.; Jan 24, 1 and 7 p.m.

• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444

JAN

24

STEM Explorers: Winter Olympics

Long Island Children’s Museum invites families to get discover all that makes Olympics competition so exciting. From speed skating to alpine skiing, the Olympics are fun to watch, but did you know that they’re also filled with science? Join the Green Teens in exploring speed, balance and aerodynamics. This is a drop-in program, free with admission.

• Where: Museum Row, Garden City

• Time: Noon-2 p.m.

• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

Ballroom dancing lessons

Rock Hall welcomes all to learn the waltz at a beginner session. Participants are introduced to the fundamentals. The class will focus

JAN

Pete Correale

of social disgrace.

• Where: 1125 Broadway, Hewlett

• Time: 2 and 7 p.m.

• Contact: hwpl.org or (516) 374-1967

JAN

29

Edward Hopper: The mystery & Melancholy of Urban Life

Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library hosts Professor Dennis Raverty who discuss esthe artwork of Edward Hopper: The mystery & Melancholy of Urban Life with Edward Hopper’s haunting paintings address the loneliness and alienation of urban life in the United States during the 20th century.

• Where: 1125 Broadway, Hewlett

• Time: 11 a.m.

• Contact: hwpl.org or (516) 374-1967

JAN

• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington

• Time: 9 p.m., doors open

8 p.m.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

After opening for Sebastian Maniscalco on his massive “It Ain’t Right” arena tour, Pete Correale is now doing his own. Be prepared for the laughs when he brings his “As I Was Saying” tour to the Paramount stage. The Long Island-born comedian-actor-writer, best known for his conversational, reality-based humor, is one busy guy. He co-hosts co-host of the “Pete and Sebastian Show,” a podcast with comedian Sebastian Maniscalco, that’s of the most popular comedy podcasts on air today, consistently growing in audience eight years after its launch. He’s been a frequent guest on late night TV, including “The Tonight Show,” and has filmed well as filming three of his own one-hour television comedy specials, “Things We Do For Love,” “Let Me Tell Ya” and “For Pete’s Sake.” He has also released two comedy albums and has been a staff writer on several TV shows, most recently “Kevin Can Wait” on CBS as well as “The Crew” on Netflix. His comedy is reflective of his life and the experiences he’s been through. Being married for over 20 years and having a young daughter, Pete’s never at a loss for material. With a conversational delivery and his trademark disarming regular guy attitude, Pete makes you feel like you’re listening to the funniest guy at a party as opposed to just another comedian on a stage. 30

on smooth, gentle walking patterns and basic steps. The pace is relaxed and accessible, perfect for complete beginners. A partner is not required. Participants are welcome to attend alone or with a partner, and rotating partners will be optional based on comfort level. Comfortable clothing that allows easy movement is recommended. Closed-toe shoes with a smooth or low-grip sole work best for this style. Participants may also want to bring a water bottle. Space limited. Reservations required. $24; $20 members/seniors. Check is to be payable to the Friends of Rock Hall.

• Where: 199 Broadway, Lawrence

• Time: 6 p.m.

• Contact: (516) 239-1157

JAN

25

Art talk

Nassau County Museum of Art hosts Dee Shapiro, a New York–based artist, is known for her richly detailed paintings exploring geometry, architecture, and place. She discusses works from her City and Landscapes series featured in The Real, Surreal, and Photoreal exhibit, which capture the rhythm and structure of urban and natural environments.. $20, $15 seniors, $10 students (members free). Limited seating, register in advance.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: 3 p.m.

• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

JAN

26

Reiki with Kathleen Gunning

Join Reiki teacher

Kathleen Gunning at Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library. She will guide participants on how to relax your body, calm your mind, manage pain and reduce stress.

• Where: 1125 Broadway, Hewlett

• Time: 2 p.m.

• Contact: hwpl.org or (516) 3741967

JAN

27

Technology and the Constitution

Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library hosts James Coll who examines how the “Supreme law of the land” (many of its clauses written in the 18th century) has been applied to newer technology.

• Where: 1125 Broadway, Hewlett

• Time: 11 a.m.

• Contact: hwpl.org or (516) 3741967

HWPL Readers

Join a reading group at the HewlettWoodmere Public Library and read

“Ragtime” by E. L. Doctorow lead by Jane Shapiro. Ragtime captures the spirit of America in the era between the turn of the century and the First World War in 1906 in New Rochelle, New York. Reading groups meet in the Boehm Room.

• Where: 1125 Broadway, Hewlett

• Time: 2 p.m.

• Contact: hwpl.org or (516) 3741967

Pretzel

Wreaths workshop

Join chocolatier Melinda Space at Hewlett-Woodmere Library. Assemble mini pretzels into a wreath using chocolate, sprinkles and candies. Registration required.

• Where: 1125 Broadway, Hewlett

• Time: 6:30 p.m.

• Contact: hwpl.org or (516) 3741967

JAN 28

Movie time

Stop by HewlettWoodmere Public Library for a showing of ‘Downtown Abbey: The Grand Finale’ Rated PG; 2 hours, 3 minutes and directed by Simon Curtis. It stars Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern and Jim Carter. When Mary finds herself in a public scandal and the family faces financial trouble, the household grapples with the threat

A Cappella Festival

SingStrong International

A Cappella Festival returns to the Adelphi University Performing Arts Center. This exciting threeday, all-vocal event features five unique concerts and two days of classes and coaching, showcasing the versatility and power of the human voice. Festival proceeds support music programs and the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund. Audiences will experience a diverse range of a cappella styles, including pop, jazz, rock, barbers hop, hip-hop, doo-wop, and more. The festival hosts performances by professional a cappella groups from around the world, alongside talented collegiate and high school ensembles. Visit singstrong.org for details.

• Where: Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City

• Time: Varied, through Feb. 1

• Contact: adelphi.edu/pac or 9516) 877-4000

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.

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Legal

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. FNA DZ, LLC, Pltf. vs. FAYE KLAUSNER, Defts. Index #604761/2024. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered November 26, 2025, I will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on February 5, 2026 at 3:30 p.m. premises k/a Section 58, Block 84 Lot 28-30. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. The foreclosure sale will be held, “rain or shine.”

PAUL MELI, Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Dr., Great Neck, NY 11021.#102695 157575

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT AS TRUSTEE FOR PRETIUM MORTGAGE ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST JOSE C. MARTINEZ, MARIA S. ALVARENGA, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 28, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 11, 2026 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 102 Roger Avenue, Inwood, NY 11096. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements

erected, situate, lying and being in Inwood, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 40, Block 146, Lot 126-129. Approximate amount of judgment $824,643.25 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #604014/2020. Brian J. Davis, Esq., Referee Gross Polow y, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 20-000073 88344 157629

LEGAL NOTICE Notice of Qualification of Meteorite Camillus LLC, a Delaware limited liability company formed on 12/04/25. Authority filed with New York Secretary of State on 12/09/25. County in New York: Nassau. Address: 1030R Broadway, Woodmere, NY 11598. Designated agent for

service of process: Joshua Jacobs, 1030R Broadway, Woodmere, NY 11598. Purpose: any lawful purpose. 157654

LEGAL NOTICE AVISO DE ELECCIÓN ANUAL POR FAVOR TENGA EN CUENTA que en la elección general de la Villa que se llevará a cabo en la Villa de Lawrence el 16 de junio de 2026, se ocuparán los siguientes cargos por los términos indicados: Oficina Termino Alcalde Dos (2) Años

Fideicomisario Dos (2) Años

Fideicomisario Dos (2) Años

Las personas elegibles que deseen votar en dicha elección deben estar registradas en la Junta Electoral del Condado de Nassau al menos diez días antes

Public Notices

de dicha elección.

Gerry Castro, Administrador de la Villa de Lawrence RESOLUCIÓN QUE DESIGNA EL LUGAR Y EL HORARIO DE LAS VOTACIONES POR CUANTO, de conformidad con la Ley Electoral, la Junta de Fideicomisarios debe designar el lugar de las votaciones para las elecciones de la Villa que se llevarán a cabo el 16 de junio de 2026, y el horario de elección, AHORA, POR LO TANTO, SE RESUELVE, que el lugar de votación para la elección de la Villa que se llevará a cabo el 16 de junio de 2026 será el Lawrence Yacht & Country Club, 101 Causeway, Lawrence, Nueva York, y además SE RESUELVE, que el horario de dicha elección de Villa será de 7 am a 9 pm inclusive. 157952

LEGAL NOTICE

INCORPORATED

VILLAGE OF CEDARHURST

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE

THAT the assessment roll of the Inc. Village of Cedarhurst, for the year 2026 has been prepared and filed with the Village Clerk, pursuant to Section 1406, Sub-Division 1 of the Real Property Tax Law, where it may be seen and examined by any persons, at all times during business hours until February 17, 2026 and on February 17, 2026 the Board of Trustees will hold a meeting pursuant to Section 1406, subdivision 3 of the Real Property Tax Law at the Village Hall, 200 Cedarhurst Avenue, Cedarhurst, N.Y. between the hours of 5 P.M. and 9 P.M. for the purpose of hearing and determining relation thereto, and the application of any person aggrieved thereby.

PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE THAT all interested persons will have an opportunity to be heard at said hearing.

Dated: Cedarhurst, New York

January 13, 2025

By Order of the Mayor, Benjamin Weinstock and Board of Trustees

Jacob Plaut Village Administrator 157951

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ANNUAL ELECTION

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that at the general Village election to be held in the Village of Lawrence on June 16, 2026, the following offices are to be filled for the terms indicated: Office Term

Mayor Two (2) Years

Trustee Two (2) Years

Trustee Two (2) Years

Eligible persons wishing to vote in the said election must be registered with the Nassau County Board of Elections at least ten days prior to the said election.

Gerry Castro, Village Administrator Village of Lawrence RESOLUTION DESIGNATING POLLING PLACE AND HOURS

WHEREAS, pursuant to the Election Law, the Board of Trustees is required, to designate the polling place for the village election to be held on June 16, 2026, and the hours of election, NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the polling place for the Village election to be held on June 16, 2026 shall be the Lawrence Yacht & Country Club, 101 Causeway, Lawrence, New York, and it is further RESOLVED, that the hours of the said Village election shall be from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., inclusive.

157950

LEGAL NOTICE VILLAGE OF ATLANTIC BEACH ELECTION DAY

At the regular meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Village of Atlantic Beach held on January 12, 2026, the following resolution was offered by Trustee Heller and seconded by Deputy Mayor Pierantoni, who moved its adoption and it was duly carried unanimously, 1-that the General Election of the Village of Atlantic Beach shall be held on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 and that the office to be filled and the terms thereof are as follows: 1- (1) Mayor for two year term; (2) Two Trustees for two year terms; 2- that the Village Clerk is ordered and directed to cause a copy of this Resolution

to be published in the Nassau Herald; 3- that this Resolution shall take effect immediately. BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

EMILY SINISCALCHI, VILLAGE CLERK

DATED: JANUARY 12, 2026

157953

LEGAL NOTICE

WOODMERE FIRE DISTRICT MEETINGS FOR 2026

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Woodmere Fire District in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, will hold a Meeting of the Board of Fire Commissioners on the following evenings in 2026 commencing at 7:00pm (except where stated).:

Thurs Jan 22 @ 7pm

Thurs?Feb 19?@ 7pm

Thurs March 19 @ 7pm

Thurs April 16 @ 7pm

Tues May 19 @ 7pm

Thurs June 18 @ 7pm

Thurs July 16 @ 7pm

Thurs Aug 20 @ 7pm

Thurs Sept 17 @ 7pm

Thurs Oct 22 @ 6:45pm - Budget Meeting

Thurs Oct 22 @ 7pm??

Thurs Nov 19 @ 7pm

Thurs Dec 17 @ 7pm

The meetings will be held at the Fire District Headquarters located at 20 Irving Place Woodmere, NY 11598 in the main meeting room. All meetings of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Woodmere Fire District are open to the public. This notice is being publicized and posted in accordance with the provisions of Section 104 of the Public Officers Law of the State of New York. By order of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Woodmere Fire District.

Dated: Woodmere, New York January 14, 2025

David Haller, Secretary, Woodmere Fire District 157956

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Hewlett Bay Fire District in the Town of Hempstead, Nassau County, New York, at a meeting held on the 12th of January 2026, duly adopted the following Resolution, subject to permissive referendum: A Resolution authorizing the expenditure of monies from the Hewlett Bay Fire District Capital

Reserve Building Fund for replacement of parking lot Barrier Gates with lighted arms and safety eyes. Upon a unanimous vote of the Board of Fire Commissioners, it approved to expend up to $25,000.00 from the Capital Reserve Building Fund to cover cost of replacement of the Board.

And be it further resolved that should any of the monies allocated remain unused at the completion of the project, all remaining monies will be returned to the Hewlett Bay Fire District Capital Reserve Building Fund in an expedient manner by act of Board Resolution

A complete copy of the Resolution summarized herewith is available for public inspection during regular business hours (M-F 9am-2pm) at the office of the Hewlett Bay Fire District Secretary for a period of thirty (30) days from the date of publication of this notice.

Dated: Hewlett Bay Fire District, New York January 15, 2026

/s/Mike Ahern Fire District Secretary 157955

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF GENERAL MEETING OF BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF THE INWOOD FIRE DISTRICT, INWOOD, NEW YORK, 11096. There will be a General Meeting of the Board of Commissioners of the Inwood Fire District as follows:

Time:7:00 P.M.

Date:Thursday, February 12, 2026

Place:DISTRICT OFFICE Melissa Rivelli, District Secretary 157954

LEGAL NOTICE

INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF HEWLETT HARBOR NOTICE OF QUARTERLY MEETING OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Board of Trustees of the Village of Hewlett Harbor will meet in both public and via Zoom on Thursday, January 29, 2026 at 7:00 PM, Eastern Standard Time, for the purpose of holding a quarterly meeting. Such meeting will allow residents to ask questions of the Board of Trustees on topics of their choosing. All residents wishing to attend via Zoom can visit

www.hewlettharbor.go v for instructions.

Dated: Hewlett Harbor, New York January 15, 2026 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE VILLAGE OF HEWLETT HARBOR

LISA JAMES, VILLAGE CLERK 157949

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and Municipal Home Rule of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 27th day of January 2026, at 7:00 o’clock in the evening of that day to consider the enactment of a local law to amend Section 197-13 of the code of the Town of Hempstead to INCLUDE “TRAFFIC REGULATIONS IN THE VICINITY OF SCHOOLS” at the following locations:

OCEANSIDE

ELLEN TERRY DRIVE (TH 603/25) North Side

-NO PARKING 9 AM to 1 PM SCHOOL DAYSstarting at a point 60 feet east curbline of Benjamin Road, east for a distance of 38 feet.

WOODMERE

IRVING PLACE (TH 466/25) East SideNO PARKING 8 AM to 4PM SCHOOL DAYS

ONLY - starting at a point 50 feet south of the south curbline of Cedar Lane, south for a distance of 160 feet.

IRVING PLACE (TH 466/25) East SideNO PARKING 8 AM to 4PM SCHOOL DAYS

ONLY - starting at a point 236 feet south of the south curbline of Cedar Lane, south for a distance of 119 feet.

ALSO, to REPEAL from Section 197-13 “TRAFFIC REGULATIONS IN THE VICINITY OF SCHOOLS” from the following locations:

OCEANSIDE

ELLEN TERRY DRIVE (TH 229/04) North Side

-NO PARKING 9 AM to 1 PM SCHOOL DAYSstarting from the east curbline of Benjamin Road, east for a distance of 100 feet.

(Adopted 11/16/04)

WOODMERE

IRVING PLACE (TH 88/06) East Side -

NO PARKING 7 AM to 9AM and 2 PM to 4 PM

MONDAY through FRIDAY SCHOOL BUSES

ONLY - starting at a point 209 feet south of the south curbline of Cedar Lane, south for a distance of 113 feet.

(Adopted 6/6/06) ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.

Dated:January 13, 2026 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. JOHN FERRETTI Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 157903

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and Municipal Home Rule of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 27th day of January, 2026, at 7:00 o’clock in the evening of that day to consider the enactment of a local law to amend Chapter 202 of the code of the Town of Hempstead to INCLUDE “REGULATIONS AND RESTRICTIONS” to limit parking at the following location: EAST ATLANTIC BEACH

MOHAWK AVENUE (TH 616/25) East SideSection 202-9 NO PARKING JUNE 15th to SEPTEMBER 10thstarting at a point 6 feet south of the south curbline of Beech Street, south for a distance of 234 feet.

MOHAWK AVENUE (TH 616/25) East SideNO PARKING JUNE 15th to SEPTEMBER 10th - starting at a point 256 feet south of the south curbline of Beech Street, south for a distance of 47 feet.

EAST MEADOW GREEN AVENUE (TH 547/25) West SideSection 202-24

NO STOPPING 9 AM to NOON SUNDAYSstarting at a point 10 feet north of the north curbline of Warren Street, northwest for a distance of 95 feet.

WEST HEMPSTEAD

BEDELL TERRACE (TH 495/25) East SideSection 202-20

ONE HOUR PARKING 8

AM to 4 PM EXCEPT SATURDAYS, SUNDAYS & HOLIDAYS - starting at a point 189 feet south of the south curbline of Hempstead Avenue, south for a distance of 279 feet.

HEMPSTEAD AVENUE (TH 611/25) West SideNO STOPPING

ANYTIME 9 PM to 6 AMstarting at a point 458 feet south of a point opposite the north east curbline of Eagle Avenue, south for a distance of 30 feet.

ALSO, to REPEAL from Chapter 202 “REGULATIONS AND RESTRICTIONS” from the following locations: EAST ATLANTIC BEACH

MOHAWK AVENUE (TH 358/25) East SideSection 202-9 NO

PARKING JUNE 15th to SEPTEMBER 10thstarting at a point 6 feet south of the south curbline of Beech Street, south for a distance of 293 feet.

(Adopted 9/16/25)

EAST MEADOW GREEN AVENUE (TH 67/25) WEST SIDESection 202-24 NO STOPPING 9 AM to NOON SUNDAYSstarting at a point 30 feet south of the south curbline of Front Street, south to the north curbline of Warren Street.

(Adopted 5/24/66)

UNIONDALE

GILROY AVENUE (TH 575/14) West SideSection 202-12 NO PARKING 8 PM to 6 AM - starting at a point 312 feet south of the south curbline of Hempstead Turnpike, south for a distance of 50 feet.

(Adopted 1/13/15) WEST HEMPSTEAD HEMPSTEAD AVENUE (TH 542/77) West SideSection 202-20 NO STOPPING ANYTIME 9 PM to 6 AM - Starting at a point 388 feet south of a point opposite the north curbline of Eagle Avenue, south to the apex.

(Adopted 3/21/78) ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.

Dated:January 13, 2026 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. JOHN FERRETTI

Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 157900

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 02/04/2026 at 2:00 P.M. to consider the following applications and appeals:

THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 2:00 P.M.

81/26. HEWLETT - New York University d/b/a NYU Langone Health, Variance in off-street parking (additions & alterations to existing medical office)., S/W/s Franklin Ave., 58.72’ S/E/o West Broadway, a/k/a 227 Franklin Ave. S.E.Q.R. determination not made.

ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550. This notice is only for new cases in Hewlett within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it. 157893

LEGAL NOTICE VILLAGE OF LAWRENCE Notice of Meeting to Hear Complaints Grievance Day Please take notice that the assessment roll of the Incorporated Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email:

Public Notices

Village of Lawrence for the year 2026 has been prepared and filed with the Village Clerk pursuant to Section 1406, Subdivision 1 of the Real Property Tax Law, where it may be seen and examined by any person at all times during business hours until February 17, 2026 (the third Tuesday in February) and on the 17th day of February, the Board of Trustees will hold a meeting pursuant to Section 1408 Subdivision 1 of the Real Property Tax Law at the Village Hall, 196 Central Ave, Lawrence, NY between the hours of 12 PM and 4 PM for the purpose of hearing and determining complaints in relation thereto and the application of any person aggrieved thereby.

Lina Fusco Village Clerk/Treasurer

Dated: January 16, 2026 157946

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

LOCAL LAW NO.

3-2026

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held on the 13th day of January 2026, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 3-2026, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 3-2026, to amend Section 197-5 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include “ARTERIAL STOPS” at various locations.

Dated:January 13, 2026

Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD

JOHN FERRETTI

Supervisor

KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 157912

public hearing will be held in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead, New York, on the 27th day of January 2026, at 7:00 o’clock in the evening of that day, to consider the adoption of a resolution setting aside certain parking spaces for motor vehicles for the sole use of holders of special parking permits issued by the County of Nassau to physically handicapped persons at the following locations:

EAST ATLANTIC BEACH

MOHAWK AVENUEeast side, starting at a point 240 feet south of the south curbline of Beech Street, south for a distance of 16 feet.

(TH-616/25)

ELMONT

237th STREET - east side, starting at a point 118 feet north of the north curbline of 116th Avenue, north for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-641/25)

TERRACE AVENUEwest side, starting at a point 495 feet south of the south curbline of Atherton Avenue, south for a distance of 18 feet.

(TH-644/25)

GARDEN CITY SOUTH

WHITEHALL ROAD SOUTH - east side, starting at a point of 285 feet south of the south curbline of Ardsley Boulevard, south for a distance of 22 feet.

(TH-605/25)

ROOSEVELT

RONALD PLACE - east side, starting at a point 459 feet south of the south curbline of East Fulton Avenue, south for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-597/25)

UNIONDALE

LAWRENCE STREETwest side, starting at a point 269 feet south of the south curbline of Westbury Boulevard, south for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-596/25)

SOUTHERN PARKWAYnorthside, starting at a point 455 feet west of the west curbline of Uniondale Avenue, west for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-625/25)

WANTAGH

BAYVIEW AVENUEeast side, starting at a point 187 feet north of the north curbline of St. Regis Street, north for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-599/25)

WOODBINE AVENUEsouth side, starting at a point 340 feet west of the west curbline of

Express Way, west for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-600/25)

WEST HEMPSTEAD

BARBARA LANE - west side, starting at a point 213 feet south of the southcurbline of White Star Avenue, south for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-608/25) and on the repeal of the following locations previously set aside as parking spaces for physically handicapped persons:

FRANKLIN SQUARE

THIRD AVENUE - north side, starting at a point 84 feet east of the east curbline of Fourth Street, east for a distance of 20 feet.

(TH-35/11 - 6/14/11)

(TH-592/25)

ALL PERSONS INTERESTED shall have an opportunity to be heard on said proposal at the time and place aforesaid.

Dated:January 13, 2026 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. JOHN FERRETTI

Supervisor

KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 157909

LEGAL NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE OF NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER’S SALE OF TAX LIENS ON REAL ESTATE Notice is hereby given that commencing on February 17th, 2026, will sell at public online auction the tax liens on certain real estate, unless the owner, mortgagee, occupant of or any other party in interest in such real estate shall have paid to the County Treasurer by February 12th, 2026 the total amount of such unpaid taxes or assessments with the interest, penalties and other expenses and charges against the property. Such tax liens will be sold at the lowest rate of interest, not exceeding 10 percent per six-month period, for which any person or persons shall offer to take the total amount of such unpaid taxes as defined in Section 5-37.0 of the Nassau County Administrative Code.

Effective with the February 2019 lien sale Ordinance No. 175-2015 requires a $175.00 per day registration fee for each person who intends to bid at the tax lien sale. Ordinance No.

News brief

Yeshiva Katana holds annual awards dinner

175-2015 also requires that upon the issuance of the Lien Certificate there is due from the lien buyer a Tax Certificate Issue Fee of $20.00 per lien purchased. Pursuant to the provisions of the Nassau County Administrative Code at the discretion of the Nassau County Treasurer the auction will be conducted online. Further information concerning the procedures for the auction is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at: https://www.nassaucou ntyny.gov/526/CountyTreasurer

Should the Treasurer determine that an inperson auction shall be held, same will commence on the 17th day of February 2026 at the Office of The County Treasurer 1 West Street, Mineola or at some other location to be determined by the Treasurer.

A list of all real estate in Nassau County on which tax liens are to be sold is available at the website of the Nassau County Treasurer at:

https://www.nassaucou ntyny.gov/527/AnnualTax-Lien-Sale

A list of local properties upon which tax liens are to be sold will be advertised in this publication on or before February 05th, 2026.

Nassau County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to or access to, or treatment or employment in, its services, programs, or activities. Upon request, accommodations such as those required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to participate in all services, programs, activities and public hearings and events conducted by the Treasurer’s Office. Upon request, information can be made available in Braille, large print, audio-tape or other alternative formats. For additional information, please call (516) 571-2090 ext. 1-3715.

Dated: January 22, 2026

THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER

Mineola, New York

TERMS OF SALE

Hempstead Town Supervisor John Ferretti congratulated Mr. and Mrs. Yossi Emanuel of Hewlett, recipients of the Hakaras HaTov Award, and Mr. and Mrs. Gud Meir Adler of Inwood, recipients of the Kesser Shem Tov Award, during the Yeshiva Katana of Long Island’s 30-Year Dinner Celebration on Jan. 5 at The Sands in Atlantic Beach.

Also attending were Jake Brown, Rabbi Ari Ginian and Rabbi Tzvi Krigsman.

— Melissa Berman

Public Notices

Such tax liens shall be sold subject to any and all superior tax liens of sovereignties and other municipalities and to all claims of record which the County may have thereon and subject to the provisions of the Federal and State Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Acts. However, such tax liens shall have priority over the County’s Differential Interest Lien, representing the excess, if any, of the interest and penalty borne at the maximum rate over the interest and penalty borne at the rate at which the lien is purchased.

The Purchaser acknowledges that the tax lien(s) sold pursuant to these Terms of Sale may be subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/or may become subject to such proceedings which may be commenced during the period in which a tax lien is held by a successful bidder or the assignee of same, which may modify a Purchaser’s rights with respect to the lien(s) and the property securing same. Such bankruptcy proceedings shall not affect the validity of the tax lien. In addition to being subject to pending bankruptcy proceedings and/or the Federal and State Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Acts, said purchaser’s right of foreclosure may be affected by the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act (FIRREA),12 U.S.C. ss 1811 et seq., with regard to real property

under Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) receivership.

The County Treasurer reserves the right, without further notice and at any time, to withdraw from sale any of the parcels of land or premises herein listed. The Nassau County Treasurer reserves the right to intervene in any bankruptcy case/litigation where the property affected by the tax liens sold by the Treasurer is part of the bankruptcy estate. However, it is the sole responsibility of all tax lien purchasers to protect their legal interests in any bankruptcy case affecting their purchased tax lien, including but not limited to the filing of a proof of claim on their behalf, covering their investment in said tax lien. The Nassau County Treasurer and Nassau County and its agencies, assumes no responsibility for any legal representation of any tax lien purchaser in any legal proceeding including but not limited to a bankruptcy case where the purchased tax lien is at risk. The rate of interest and penalty at which any person purchases the tax lien shall be established by his bid. Each purchaser, immediately after the sale thereof, shall pay to the County Treasurer ten per cent of the amount for which the tax liens have been sold and the remaining ninety per cent within thirty days after such sale. If the purchaser at the tax sale shall fail to pay the remaining ninety per cent within

ten days after he has been notified by the County Treasurer that the certificates of sale are ready for delivery, then all amounts deposited with the County Treasurer including but not limited to the ten per cent theretofore paid by him shall, without further notice or demand, be irrevocably forfeited by the purchaser and shall be retained by the County Treasurer as liquidated damages and the agreement to purchase shall be of no further effect. Time is of the essence in this sale. This sale is held pursuant to the Nassau County Administrative Code and interested parties are referred to such Code for additional information as to terms of the sale, rights of purchasers, maximum rates of interest and other legal incidents of the sale. Furthermore, as to the bidding, 1. The bidder(s) agree that they will not work with any other bidder(s) to increase, maintain or stabilize interest rates or collaborate with any other bidder(s) to gain an unfair competitive advantage in the random number generator in the event of a tie bid(s) on a tax certificate. Bidder(s) further agree not to employ any bidding strategy designed to create an unfair competitive advantage in the tiebreaking process in the upcoming tax sale nor work with any other bidder(s) to engage in any bidding strategy that will result in a rotational award of tax certificates.

2. The tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) bid, will be arrived at independently and without direct or indirect consultation, communication or agreement with any other bidder and that the tax certificate(s) the Bidder will bid upon, and the interest rate(s) to be bid, have not been disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder, and will not be disclosed, directly or indirectly, to any other bidder prior to the close of bidding. No attempt has been made or will be made to, directly or indirectly, induce any other bidder to refrain from bidding on any tax certificate, to submit complementary bids, or to submit bids at specific interest rates.

3. The bids to be placed by the Bidder will be made in good faith and not pursuant to any direct or indirect, agreement or discussion with, or inducement from, any other bidder to submit a complementary or other noncompetitive bid.

4. If it is determined that the bidder(s) have violated any of these bid requirements then their bid shall be voided and if they were the successful bidder the lien and any deposits made in connection with said bid shall be forfeited.

Dated: January 22, 2026THE NASSAU COUNTY TREASURER Mineola, New York 157891

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE

Full Time/Part Time

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

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome!

$22 - $27/ Hour

Bell Auto School

516-365-5778

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EDITOR/REPORTER

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MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP

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Q. Every winter I get terrible colds, and this year I got a postcard from a company that cleans air conditioning ducts. Does this help? I’m concerned about stirring up more dust. What else can I do except buy one of those portable air cleaners?

A. These days, with all the requirements for home energy savings, airtight homes and pressurized air testing, homes are much more likely to have impurities in the air. Homes used to be built with alkali-laden plaster, which mold couldn’t live on. People wore sweaters, because windows leaked cold air and homes were cooler. It seems that modern materials and methods actually brought on more sickness.

The paper backing on gypsum wallboard provides an excellent place in a dark wall cavity for mold spores to live. Inert, sprayed-in foam does help, but most people are intimidated by the cost. Carpets gather dust and, when vacuumed, may release more impurities into the air.

Cleaning hard-walled metal air ducts is a good idea after a couple of years of continuous use. If you only use the system in midsummer heat spells, the main reason to clean the ducts is because dust settles there and adheres to the sides of the air ducts. Spores and other mold prosper in the layers of dust, and can remain inactive until moisture is present, which is why, at certain times of the year, condensation from cold meeting warm air allows the mold to develop.

You should be aware that some air conditioning companies make life easier for themselves by putting in flexible, soft, round duct, which comprises an inner lining of foil attached to a wire spiral frame covered with a thin layer of fiberglass insulation and a plastic sheeting cover. The system installation costs less if the installer passes on the savings to you, and is simpler to install. By simpler, I mean that duct tape is used instead of mechanical fastening with bends of metal and screws.

Unfortunately, you can’t clean flex duct, since the devices used to clean duct apply pressure, with vacuum and scraping techniques that will destroy your flex duct and render your system useless. You should consider cleaning the main “trunks,” which are probably made of metal duct. Duct cleaning is the first step to better breathing in the home. Then, after cleaning, have a reliable mechanical contractor install a filter in your central air conditioning unit, so you have “in-line” filtration.

Ask about the different types of filter systems, such as an electronic, static-type unit that catches dust like a magnet, and also how often the filter requires cleaning or replacement. Don’t just look for the lowest-priced unit, since the maintenance or replacement of the filter may be much more than the savings. With the electrostatic filter, you may be able to simply wash the filter and put it back. Once the filter is installed, you won’t require the portable type, and you should breathe easier, which is nothing to sneeze at.

© 2026 Monte Leeper

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It’s time for Albany to put New Yorkers first

since being elected to my first term as a state senator in 2023, I have seen how issues raised by Senate Republicans are often ignored, only to resurface months later as priorities for the governor or the legislative majorities. One such example is the legislation introduced over a year ago by the Republican conference to eliminate state taxes on tipped wages.

I am proud to cosponsor this legislation, because it’s a real solution that would allow residents to keep more of their earnings. My colleagues in the Senate Republican conference and I have raised the alarm on affordability and public safety, because these are the issues directly impacting families, workers and small businesses across New York state. New York’s affordability crisis didn’t happen overnight. It is the product of years of policy decisions made without consideration of the eventual consequences of those policies, which have increased the cost of necessities for all New Yorkers. Many Democratic politi-

Icians in Albany still believe we can spend our way out of the affordability crisis they have created.

Recently I’ve spoken about how cashless bail and the revolving door of criminal justice have affected the price of consumer goods and insurance across the state. After the implementation of cashless bail, shoplifting became sport for those brazen enough to walk into stores, empty the shelves and walk out with hundreds of dollars of merchandise while taunting the employees to stop them if they dared. Companies made decisions to allow shoplifters to walk away rather than risk harm to their employees.

The challenges we face every day can only be solved with real policy changes.

nor to pay lip service to the harms this policy has caused the state, while only offering Band-Aids as “solutions.” Even before I took office, our conference warned that these reforms went too far and would have serious consequences. Since then, my colleagues and I have put forward multiple legislative solutions for the governor and legislative majorities to consider, including my bill that would restore judicial discretion to detain defendants who credibly pose a danger to the community, a legal principle that is recognized in 49 states.

The eventual effect of this policy was that retailers absorbed the losses, paid higher insurance premiums and raised prices to make up the difference, affecting all of us. Insurance companies paying out claims for those losses also increased their rates for all New Yorkers. This trickle-down effect of cashless bail impacting affordability wasn’t considered by the shortsighted State Legislature.

Since the state passed bail and discovery reforms in 2019, it has become an almost annual tradition for the gover-

Albany-driven energy policies are also driving up taxes and utility costs, increasing energy bills for families and imposing costly burdens on small businesses. While I support taking steps to safeguard our environment, eliminating reliable sources of energy and favoring less-reliable sources is reckless and dangerous. The State Energy Planning Board recently acknowledged that reality by adopting an energy plan that delays the benchmarks for reducing emissions set forth in the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act passed in 2019.

But this half-measure isn’t enough. We must advance legislation that includes transparency by utility companies, limi-

tations on rate increases, and realistic deadlines so families aren’t forced to pay the price for policies that move faster than technology, infrastructure and New Yorkers’ wallets can support. In the wake of several high-profile incidents and tragedies involving squatters in 2024, I brought an amendment to the Senate floor to correct state laws that were empowering and emboldening squatters. While my proposal was voted down at the time, a similar, albeit watered-down, proposal was ultimately tucked into the final state budget not long afterward. Time and again, the governor and the legislative majorities initially deny the realities and challenges New Yorkers are facing — which members of my conference and I consistently voice in the Senate chamber — only to later acknowledge these realities and pass legislative halfmeasures to pretend the problem is solved. These challenges New Yorkers face every day didn’t happen overnight, and they can only be solved with real policy changes, not more spending and empty promises. In this year’s legislative session, I will continue to fight for real solutions: lowering costs, holding criminals accountable and giving families, workers and small businesses the stability they need to thrive.

Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick represents the 9th State Senate District.

Why New York must act to stop DIY machine guns

n recent years, one trend has become impossible to ignore: Handguns are being turned into illegal machine guns with alarming ease. This isn’t a failure of enforcement or a lack of existing law. It’s the result of outdated firearm designs colliding with rapidly evolving technology, creating a public safety threat. Across New York state, police are recovering semi-automatic pistols that have been modified with devices known as “Glock switches.” These illegal devices allow a handgun to fire continuously with a single pull of the trigger, reaching rates of fire comparable to military weapons — dozens of rounds per second, often with no control over where those bullets land. These aren’t weapons used for self-defense. They are weapons that turn everyday settings into scenes of mass harm. Machine guns and conversion devices are already illegal under state law, but technology has changed the landscape in ways lawmakers couldn’t have anticipated when the laws were written. Glock

switches are small, inexpensive and increasingly easy to obtain or manufacture using home 3D printers. They are difficult to detect and easy to conceal. As a result, they are showing up more frequently in violent crimes.

What makes this crisis especially urgent is that some pistols are designed in ways that make illegal conversion exceptionally simple. With household tools and minimal time, a handgun can be transformed into a machine gun. When product designs repeatedly enable criminal misuse with such devastating consequences, lawmakers have a responsibility to address the risk proactively, not retroactively.

Myrie in the Senate. Our bill would establish a straightforward standard for firearm manufacturers that want to sell handguns in New York. Pistols would be required to be designed in a way that prevents easy conversion into machine guns.

M ore socalled Glock switches are being found in New York communities.

That’s why this issue has moved to the forefront of New York’s public safety agenda. In her State of the State address, Gov. Kathy Hochul included a proposal to confront this problem. Her plan recognizes the basic truth that enforcement alone cannot keep pace with a problem driven by design flaws and emerging technology. Preventing future harm requires setting clear safety standards before weapons even reach the market.

The governor’s proposal aligns with legislation previously introduced by me in the Assembly and by Sen. Zellnor

This approach is measured and precise. It wouldn’t ban handguns. It wouldn’t confiscate firearms from current owners. It wouldn’t affect law enforcement or military use. People who already own affected pistols could keep them, repair them and sell them through lawful channels. This effort would focus solely on future sales, ensuring that New Yorkers aren’t sold weapons whose designs make illegal and deadly modification predictable. Legislative pressure is already compelling changes in the firearm industry. Recently, Lenny Magill, founder and CEO of one of the country’s largest Glock retailers, announced that Glock would soon discontinue most older models and introduce new pistols with updated triggers and slides that, he speculated, would prevent them from accepting the switches that convert them to full auto. If verified, this would represent a significant industry response to public safety con-

cerns driven by state legislation.

This moment didn’t happen by chance. It followed years of growing public awareness of the devastation modified pistols cause.

Some have argued that existing bans on machine guns should be sufficient. The evidence says otherwise. Glock switches have been used in mass shootings across the country, and are increasingly recovered in New York communities. When the law addresses only the device and not the design that enables its use, it leaves a dangerous gap that bad actors exploit.

The Supreme Court has long held that dangerous and unusual weapons fall outside the protections of the Second Amendment. A handgun designed to be converted into a machine gun fits in that category. This initiative would reinforce a longstanding principle that weapons capable of extreme and mass harm do not belong in the public market — or in our neighborhoods.

When loopholes in design allow weapons of war to be assembled in minutes, the cost is measured in lives. Governor Hochul’s proposal would close that loophole and reaffirm New York’s commitment to public safety. It is a necessary step that we must take now.

Michaelle Solages represents the 22nd Assembly District.

Nassau

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lori HarWiTT

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Modernizing support for volunteer firefighters

New York’s volunteer firefighters and emergency service personnel have long been the backbone of the state’s emergency response system. On Long Island and across New York, they respond not only to fires, but also to car accidents, medical emergencies, storms and disasters of every kind.

HERALD

Their service saves taxpayers an estimated $3.8 billion each year, according to the Firefighters Association of the State of New York. Yet despite their value, volunteer departments are struggling to recruit and retain enough members to meet growing demands.

The reasons are familiar. Potential volunteers say they don’t have the time, that the commitment feels overwhelming, or that the system is simply too complicated to navigate. Cultural and economic changes have made it harder for people to give unpaid time, and the numbers show it: New York’s volunteer fire service has declined from roughly 120,000 members in the early 2000s to about 80,000 today. While this is not yet a full-blown crisis, it is a warning sign that action is needed now.

Now, FASNY is proposing the next step: the Volunteer Optimization Legislative Initiative. This package of 14 straightforward actions is designed to modernize how New York supports volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel, making service more feasible for today’s families and workers. Importantly, these initiatives would apply uniformly across the state, ensuring fairness and consistency for all volunteer departments.

For more than a decade, FASNY has

worked to reverse the decline in the number of volunteers. Through initiatives like Train the Recruiter classes and a statewide outreach campaign, the organization has consistently pushed creative solutions.

In recent years, that effort has been strengthened by a productive partnership with Gov. Kathy Hochul and many state legislators. Together they have delivered training stipends, grants for capital improvements and funding for equipment purchases that have made a real difference in communities statewide.

At its core, VOLI recognizes that volunteers should not be penalized financially for serving. Several proposals focus on meaningful tax relief, including an enhanced volunteer firefighter and EMS income tax credit, the ability to combine such credits with property tax exemptions, and new credits to help offset child care and family-related expenses. Housing affordability is addressed with exemptions from mortgage recording taxes and optional local relief on recording fees, helping volunteers live in the communities they protect.

Other initiatives acknowledge the real, day-to-day costs of volunteering. VOLI would allow departments or authorities having jurisdiction to reimburse volunteers’ reasonable out-ofpocket expenses without creating tax burdens. It also proposes incentives for on-call duty shifts through the Length of Service Award Program, and statefunded reimbursement mechanisms to help smaller departments afford these benefits.

Workplace realities are another major

barrier to volunteering, and VOLI tackles this head-on. Employer tax incentives would encourage businesses to hire volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel while allowing them to respond during business hours. At the same time, volunteers would gain stronger workplace protections.

Equally important, the initiative would prohibit local governments, unions or bargaining units from preventing career firefighters from volunteering in their home communities, expanding the potential pool of experienced responders.

Safety and fairness are also central themes. VOLI would bring volunteer injury benefits in line with standard workers’ compensation, ensuring equal protection when volunteers are hurt in the line of duty. It would also expand eligibility for training stipends, public service loan forgiveness, and state tuition assistance, recognizing that education and training benefit both volunteers and the communities they serve.

Taken together, these 14 initiatives do not represent radical change. They are practical, thoughtful updates that reflect modern economic realities while respecting the proud tradition of volunteer service.

With the new state legislative session under way, FASNY representatives will discuss these proposals. Implementing at least a majority of them, if not all, would strengthen recruitment and retention, protect taxpayers, and help ensure that New York’s volunteer fire and EMS system remains strong for generations to come.

Both parties share the blame for the mess we’re in

To the Editor:

Re Jerry Kremer’s column in the Jan. 1-7 issue, “For President Trump, too many missed opportunities,” I will try to be as fair and balanced as possible.

Neither a Democrat nor a Republican, I’m an independent. We are as divided as ever, but the fault for that lies at the feet of both parties. Their respective loyalties override the business of representing the needs of the people.

Since the beginning of President Trump’s second term, no matter whatever good he has done, Democrats find fault with it. The reality is that he inherited a domestic as well as an international mess that was administered by behind-thescenes figures who were propping up a cognitive declined president. A year into

Outrage on demand: Gaza gets celebs, Iran gets ignored

if you walked through the streets of manhattan, Los Angeles, Baltimore, Chicago or Portland last year, you could hardly miss them: endless Gaza protests, celebrities on bullhorns, and nonstop media coverage treating every chant as a moral imperative.

Susan Sarandon, mark Ruffalo and a parade of progressive icons were everywhere, lecturing the world on justice. Now that courageous Iranians are risking their lives in the streets, confronting a brutal regime, where are these moral megaphones? Where are the hashtags, the celebrity rallies and the tearjerking op-eds?

The silence is deafening.

In Iran, protesters are facing a government that has crushed dissent for decades. Hundreds of people have reportedly been killed for demanding basic freedoms. These men and women aren’t marching for Instagram applause. They are risking imprisonment, torture and death. yet celebrity rallies vanish, elite media campaigns are absent, and the activists who claim to speak for the oppressed suddenly

Letters

office, Trump has to address affordability, with everyday costs that are crushing the majority of Americans. The expense of groceries, health care, auto and homeowner’s insurance and prescription drugs are forcing people to make hard choices, because dollars can be stretched only so far. Interest rates for mortgages and loans are still too high.

The other reality is that the president has a nine-month window to address affordability, or he will lose Congress in November. Describing it as a “hoax” was ill-advised and alienating. If Trump loses Congress, the remainder of his presidency will be tied up in gridlock and attempts to impeach him. Nothing will get done, and the American people will go backward — while the two-party system, which has outlived its usefulness, will flourish. Promoting their own agendas to finagle and scheme to stay in power, the parties will do nothing to respond to the needs of everyday people, but everything for the special interests, lobbyists, and big campaign contributors.

ToNy GIAmeTTA Oceanside

have nothing to say.

The left’s silence on Iran has nothing to do with principle. Their outrage is selective, because the oppressor isn’t Israel and the victims aren’t Jewish. When a cause can’t be weaponized against America or Israel, moral alarm disappears. outrage is on demand, but only when it fits the narrative.

w here were Sarandon and Ruffalo when Iranian women faced batons and bullets?

Feminist voices are especially absent. Iranian women have lived under systemic oppression for nearly 47 years, subject to forced dress codes, restricted movement and brutal punishment for defiance. They are beaten, jailed and killed for demanding basic freedoms. Activists who flood social media, claiming to defend women everywhere, remain silent. Feminism filtered through ideology becomes performative rather than principled.

The silence from LGBTQ organizations is equally revealing. Homosexuality is criminalized under Iran’s regime, and public expressions of LGBTQ identity are punishable by death. If slogans and flags in American protests were serious, Iran would be condemned first. Instead activists look away, showing that their concern is political alignment, not life or liberty.

Contrast this with the Gaza protests. every banner, every chant, every Insta-

gram post receives nonstop amplification. Celebrities march alongside activists who openly embrace movements hostile to America and Israel. Symbols of terror-linked groups are tolerated or ignored. meanwhile, ordinary Iranians who oppose the same terror-sponsoring regime receive barely a whisper. This is not moral consistency; it is ideological selectivity. most liberal universities provide a stark example. Administrations have tolerated or encouraged anti-Israel demonstrations while staying silent on Iranian protesters. Students who shut down lecture halls over foreign conflicts now say nothing as a regime executes dissenters and suppresses women. Silence becomes policy when outrage is inconvenient.

President Trump provides a sharp contrast. Unlike celebrity activists, Trump has consistently condemned the Iranian regime’s violence and warned of consequences if the crackdown continues. That is leadership. He stands with people who fight for freedom, not people who kneel for photo ops. The president doesn’t pick and choose human rights based on hashtags. He knows that regimes that brutalize citizens and export terror are enemies of freedom.

If the left truly believed in universal

Framework by Tim Baker

human rights, outrage over Tehran would match outrage over Jerusalem. Its imbalance reveals priorities that are political, not principled — and this issue is about principle, not theology. Iranian protesters demand liberty and dignity — the same rights claimed by Americans at our founding. But modern activist leftists treat Iranians’ struggle as an afterthought. Any conflict framed as “us versus the West” gets broadcast; real freedom fighters are ignored.

Where were Sarandon and Ruffalo when Iranian women faced batons and bullets? Where were the big-name voices condemning internet blackouts, executions and arrests? Their outrage is transactional and performative. When there is no ideological payoff, there is no protest. When there is no camera angle, there is no solidarity.

Real conservatives and courageous Americans see tyranny for what it is, wherever it occurs. They support Israel because it is a democratic ally amid hostile regimes. They support Iranians’ fighting for freedom because liberty is universal.

The left has an opportunity to prove it genuinely cares about human rights. Until it does, its moral hypocrisy will remain on full display. outrage on demand is not justice. True courage stands with freedom — everywhere, every time.

Ari Brown represents the 20th Assembly District.

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