Oyster Bay Herald 01–29-2026

Memory of genocide meets hope at Holocaust center

By roKSANA AMID ramid@liherald.com

The halls of the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County filled with an unusual mix of voices last week: Jewish educators, Arab peace-builders and young leaders from across the Middle East. The occasion was a dialogue with Sharaka, a nonprofit organization that emerged in the wake of the Abraham Accords, which normalized diplomatic relations between Israel and several Arab nations in 2020.

The event, on Jan. 24, had a particular resonance at HMTC, which was built to preserve the testimony of Holocaust survivors and to educate future generations about hatred and moral courage. The Sharaka delegation, made up of leaders from Morocco, Bahrain, Israel and the United States, came

not only to share their stories but also to demonstrate the power of unlikely partnerships.

Alyssa Annis, who manages Holocaust education in Sharaka, opened the evening by recalling how she found the organization amid despair following Hamas’s attacks on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. “If you would have told me on Oct. 8 that an organization existed like Sharaka,” she said, “I wouldn’t have believed you.”

Annis’s work — bridging Holocaust memory with contemporary Arab engagement — developed into a mission to fight Holocaust denial and antisemitism in communities where it persists. “We have voices from the region who are devoted to make sure that history doesn’t repeat itself,” she said.

Youssef Elazhari, from Morocco,

By WIll SHEElINE wsheeline@liherald.com

Karen Horoszewski, assistant superintendent for business in the Locust Valley Central School District, presented the second phase of the district’s 2026-27 budget plan at the Board of Education meeting Wednesday night, focusing on the district’s tax cap calculation and noninstructional spending.

Everything we do in this budget process is driven by our district mission ‘to provide a safe and nurturing environment.’

million, 2.3 percent larger than total property taxes in 2024-25. Horoszewski addressed common misconceptions about the state’s 2 percent tax cap, emphasizing that it is not a flat limit. Instead, the allowable increase for a given district is determined by a formula that factors in inflation, property value growth and specific exclusions.

“Everything we do in this budget process is driven by our district mission, which is ‘to educate the whole student in a safe and nurturing environment,’” Horoszewski said. “Our budget mission is to support those educational goals while remaining fiscally responsible to you, the community.”

KArEN HoroSzEWSKI Assistant superintendent

business,

LVCSD

for

The current budget for the 2025-26 school year, totaling just under $98.3 million, is supported by a tax levy of about $90.16

“The tax cap is actually a formula that is based on inflation and other factors,” she explained, “meaning it could be lower or higher than 2 percent.” Certain costs, including capital debt service and BOCES capital expenditures, are excluded from the cap, while state aid for building and transportation is subtracted from the calculation.

Based on preliminary figures, the district’s maximum Continued on page 13

By WILL SHEELINE

things to know DistRiCt UPDAtEs

LVCSD Board of Education meeting

wsheeline@liherald.com

The Locust Valley Central School District Board of Education focused Wednesday night on student recognition, long range planning and expanded early childhood education, while also hearing public comment on athletics honors and pending litigation. Here are three key takeaways from the meeting:

Students, coaches recognized for leadership and achievement

The board opened the meeting by recognizing the middle school cheerleaders for a volunteer initiative at Bayville Primary School, where they spend time with kindergarten through second grade students waiting for buses after dismissal.

Coach Victoria Shishkoff said the cheerleaders created an optional buddy group that meets in the library to help younger students with homework, reading and social support.

The board also recognized coaches Joe Lee and Tom Graham for county and conference honors during the fall sports season. Graham was named conference coach of the year after leading the girls cross country team to their first Section VIII championship. Lee was named Nassau County Class A boys soccer coach of the year following an undefeated conference season.

Locust Valley Library

FEBRUARY PROGRAMS

For more information visit us at: www.locustvalleylibrary.org

North Shore Programming Consortium:

Functional Heart Health: Online

Tuesday, February 3 at 7 PM

Explore how to keep your heart strong. Amanda Reichardt will look at the whole picture, giving you strategies to protect and enhance your cardiovascular well-being every day.

Create and Express

Wednesday, February 4 at 6 PM

Relax, create art and talk about resilience with Cassandra Stoffers, from CEC Health Care.

Be My Valentine:

Sand & Shell Sculpture

Wednesday, February 4 at 6:30 PM

Presented by mix media artist, Anna Chan. $5 material fee is required. No refunds.

Healthy Hearty Vegan Chili

Wednesday, February 11 at 2 PM

Prepared by Chef Robert Dell’Amore. $10 ingredients fee is required. No refunds.

History of Black Guitarists

From Elizabeth Cotten to Prince Thursday, February 12 at 6 PM

Join Tyler Erickson as he explores the rich legacy of Black American guitarists across eras and genres, celebrating their profound contributions to music history. Join us in person.

Medicaid Facilitated Enrollers

Tuesday, February 17 from 10 AM - 2PM

A free service helping individuals and families apply or reapply for New York State Medicaid programs.

Nature, Anxiety & Healing

Thursday, February 19 at 2 PM

Adrienne Bernstein, founder of Holistic Living Resources, explores how lifestyle and our bond with nature shape overall well-being.

Calendar and policy decisions advanced by board

The board unanimously adopted the proposed 2026–27 school calendar after extensive work balancing start dates, snow days and BOCES.

Under the approved version, staff would return Sept. 1 for a superintendent’s conference day, with students beginning classes Sept. 2. The calendar maintains the Wednesday before Thanksgiving off, allows for one traditional snow day and preserves the possibility of a four day Memorial Day weekend by converting a second snow day to remote learning if needed. The last day of school would be June 25.

The board also unanimously approved revisions to Policy 2300 regarding Board of Education membership, while abolishing several related policies that were consolidated into the revised document.

ONGOING PROGRAMS

POETRY EXCHANGE GROUP PRESENTS LOVE POEMS

GUEST POET: GAYL TELLER SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7 11 AM

ALL ARE WELCOME TO LISTEN AND ENJOY!

MATINEE THURSDAYS AT 1 PM FEBRUARY 12

MOVIE: WHEN HARRY MET SALLY

1 HR, 50 MIN - RATED R FEBRUARY 26

MOVIE: DRAFT DAY

1 HR, 50 MIN - RATED PG-13

MONDAY MAVENS BOOKCLUB FEBRUARY 9 AT 7 PM

THE SLEUTH SERIES BOOKCLUB WITH PATRICIA

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 23 AT 7 PM

TITLE: MY COUSIN RACHEL BY DAPHNE DUMAURIER

Increased state funding for Universal Prekindergarten

One of the most significant actions of the night was the board’s unanimous approval to add a fourth Universal Prekindergarten classroom for the 2026–27 school year.

Superintendent Kristen Turnow said the decision followed a surprise increase in state UPK funding from $5,400 to $10,000 per pupil.

The district received 84 UPK applications this year. With three classrooms, 30 students would have remained on a waiting list. Adding a fourth class would allow the district to serve 72 students, split evenly between Locust Valley and Bayville primary schools.

Superintendent Kristen Turnow clarified that the money did not come with any conditional requirements from the state education department.

HERALD SCHOOLS

Vernon students learn hands-on science

James H. Vernon School brought science to life on Jan. 21 during its annual STEM Night, an evening of hands-on learning for students in grades 3-6 and their families.

The event transformed the school into interactive learning zones featuring activities hosted by the Long Island Children’s Museum and Mad Science. In the gymnasium, Mad Science captivated audiences with a Fire and Ice show, demonstrating scientific principles through chemistry experiments using dry ice, soap and carbon dioxide.

The cafeteria became an engineering laboratory where families competed in the Bird Perch Challenge, working together to construct the tallest possible structure using only straws.

In the athletic complex, students explored an aerodynamics station where they designed and tested paper airplanes while learning how air movement affects objects in motion. Additional stations offered opportunities to investigate air pressure principles through balloon experiments and other interactive science activities.

–Will Sheeline

The different stations offered opportunities to investigate air pressure principles through balloon experiments, aerodynamics by testing paper airplanes and other interactive science activities.

Not-Too-Sweet To Go

Ihave a sweet tooth. I must end every breakfast, lunch and dinner with something sugar-y. Coke Zero is my hero. If I take a sip, it says to my tastebuds, “Get over yourself. You’ve finished your meal. Move on.” Unfortunately, I can’t live on Coke Zero. But this month, I found not-too-sweet treats in three new eateries and on a new menu in a popular smooth shop. After a meal, if I enjoy these treats that are not super sweet, I can control my cravings. Sort of. If you’re a fellow sweettoother, which of these goodies might work for you?

Crust & Crumb 96 (42A Middle Neck Rd., Great Neck)

I’ve never tried. I browsed through the aisles and chose the Mori-Nu Asian Dessert—a creamy, tofu-based dessert. According to the description, it’s lightly sweetened with a subtle, almond-jelly inspired flavor. I tried it and I’m hooked. I’d say it tastes a bit like strawberry liqueur. The bite-sized, mushroom-shaped cookies with chocolate covered caps are also sweet tooth stoppers if you can eat just one. Okay, three.

SoBol Health (Oyster Bay & Glen Cove)

In this new, pristine, Taiwanese-style bakery, a slice of chocolate bread tastes like a not-too-sweet treat. Every morning at 4 a.m., the staff begins baking a wonderland of Asian pastries, cakes and breads for the day. Each loaf of chocolate bread is created with basic ingredients (chocolate, flour, butter, eggs, milk, sugar, salt). Its chocolate flavor is a notch above subtle. Many other baked goods are not ridiculously sweet as well though they’re joined by the creamiest, freshest whipped cream in the universe. If your sweet tooth is out of control, go for the pistachio sunflower. The formal description alone will change your life: pistachio mousse dipped in crunchy pistachio chocolate, set beneath a raspberry crème sphere, resting on soft vanilla cake and a buttery vanilla cookie, finished with a handcrafted white chocolate sunflower and a dollop of raspberry jam.

JSnack Mart (38 Glen Head Rd., Glen Head)

This new, quaint Japanese grocery store features a lovely variety of foods

The newest flavor in this health food restaurant is a bright purple ingredient from the Philippines known as Ube. It’s a starchy vegetable, also known as a purple yam. Its sweet, slightly nutty, vanilla flavor sways my sweet tooth in a different direction. I ordered it in a bowl with fruit, and I can’t wait to try it in a smoothie, or plop a dollop atop a homemade Belgian waffle. So good.

Bagel Chalet

(6 Great Neck Rd., Great Neck)

I can never have enough shoes, jackets or bagel shops. This new bagel shop is a local shining star. When I entered the bright and airy café, I made a beeline to the not-too-sweet chocolate cream cheese. I spread it across a low carb bagel (three low carb types are offered: sesame, multigrain and everything). Okay, it’s not a cream puff, but I’d say it can pass for a less-sugary knock off.

There are also banana peanut butter and blueberry cobbler overnight oats. I’m going back to try the fresh, vibrant salad bar. The café also features a plethora of fluffy, puffy bagels with cream cheese choices galore, eggs, sandwiches, and of course, Coke Zero.

See you next month!

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Lindy hopping at Raynham Hall Museum

By WILL SHEELINE wsheeline@liherald.com

Raynham Hall Museum will host a presentation exploring the exuberant history of the Lindy Hop and its roots in the Jazz Age when Celia Ipiotis appears on Feb. 5 as part of the museum’s Townsend Talks series. The program, titled “Jazzing It Up: The Savoy Club Madness,” will feature film clips, historical context and commentary drawn from Ipiotis’ interviews with legendary Lindy Hop dancer and choreographer Frankie Manning. Ipiotis is the producer of the PBS series “Eye on Dance” and has spent decades documenting both concert and vernacular dance traditions.

I think (the Lindy Hop) represents abandoned joy.

CELIa IpIotIS Presenter

Ipiotis said the Lindy Hop continues to resonate across generations, even among those who may only have a surface understanding of the dance.

“I think it represents abandoned joy,” she said. “And there’s not a person who doesn’t break out in smiles when they hear the words ‘Lindy Hop.’ That’s a good thing these days.”

Originating during the Jazz Age, the Lindy Hop developed out of earlier social dances like the Charleston and took shape in dance competitions during the teens, 1920s and 1930s. Ipiotis said the Savoy Ballroom in Harlem was central to its evolution, serving as both a cultural hub and an incubator for innovation.

“The Savoy Ballroom figures huge in the life of the Lindy Hop,” she added, “because that was where you had all the top dancers.”

The Savoy was notable not only for its scale and energy, but also for being one of the only racially integrated dance halls in New York City at the time. Its dance floor hosted some of the era’s most accomplished performers and attracted celebrities, musicians and everyday New Yorkers alike.

Lindy Hop became known for its speed, athleticism and acrobatic elements, including aerial steps that involved lifting and flipping partners in time with the music. Manning, whom Ipiotis interviewed in 1988, is widely credited with inventing the aerial step that came to define the dance.

“When dancers invented new steps, that would sort of create a different rhythm,” she said. “And the bands used to pick up on that and write music for the dancers.”

Ipiotis’ presentation will center on filmed conversations with Manning, who described life at the Savoy and the competitive dance battles that unfolded there. She said hearing dancers speak about the era provides insight not only into technique, but also into the spirit of the time.

“You get people from a particular era, and you hear them speak,” she said. “Even the rhythm of his voice,

the way he spoke, the way he described things, it has a jazzy, upbeat feel.”

The event will also connect Lindy Hop to Raynham Hall’s own history through the story of Alice Delano

Weekes, a professional concert and ballet dancer associated with the Townsend family and the Roosevelts. Ipiotis plans to highlight Weekes’ career and her performances alongside Josephine Baker during the 1930s as an example of how jazz era dance crossed social and cultural boundaries.

The presentation, also being held in honor of Black History Month, is part of the museum’s Townsend Talks series, which brings speakers from Long Island and beyond to explore topics related to history, art, architecture and culture connected to the site and its mission.

Ipiotis said the evening will move between video clips and live commentary, with opportunities for audience questions throughout.

The program will conclude with footage from the 1941 film “Hellzapoppin’,” which features Manning’s choreography and showcases the extreme athleticism of Lindy Hop dancers. Ipiotis noted that viewers often assume the footage is sped up, though it is not.

The talk will be held in the Raynham Hall Visitors’ Center. Tickets are $25 for nonmembers, $20 for members and $10 for students with identification. Light refreshments are included.

Connecting Long Island to the Persian Gulf

described a deep historical connection between Jews and Muslims in North Africa, stretching back over two millennia — yet he spoke candidly about how modern propaganda and mistrust had eroded that coexistence. Visiting Israel, Elazhari said, transformed his perceptions. “I unlocked a feeling — to be loved by the people you are supposed to hate,” he said. That realization compelled him to found Sharaka’s Moroccan branch, to “tell the Moroccans a reality that they are not used to.”

Fatima Al Harbi, director of Sharaka’s Persian Gulf affairs, recalled a similar awakening. Growing up in Bahrain, she was taught hostility toward Israel even though she lived among Jewish and Christian neighbors. Her first visit to Tel Aviv after the Abraham Accords shattered stereotypes she learned about Jewish people and their character.

“If you had told me 10 years ago that I’d be welcomed by a Jewish stranger in the middle of Tel Aviv’s streets, I wouldn’t have believed it,” Al Harbi said. Despite online harassment and death threats, she continues her outreach, often bringing delegations of Bahrainis to meet Israelis face to face.

“Interactions like these can change a person in two hours,” she said. “Hate can dissolve over a single dinner.”

tell you to “go die” or that “you don’t deserve to wear your hijab.”

today.

WTheir stories illustrated Sharaka’s underlying belief: that personal relationships and shared learning — particularly about the Holocaust — are central to reshaping narratives in the Middle East. Elazhari emphasized that Holocaust education is essential for Arabs to understand why Israel exists.

“It’s not about comparing miseries,” he said, “but about understanding history. Without Holocaust education, Israel will never make sense to them.”

Elazhari described refueling his spirit with encounters in the United States. “I meet with Jews in America — they hug me, they give me energy, and then I go back home to fight back,” he said.

have voices from the region who are devoted to make sure that history doesn’t repeat itself

The discussion was particularly fitting at HMTC, where Holocaust history meets the moral urgency of modern tolerance education. Donna Rosenblum, the center’s director of education, told the panel how inspired she was by their resilience despite the hostility they face online. “How do you persevere?” she asked, noting how much strength it must take to keep going when people

Alyss A Annis Holocaust education, Sharaka

Al Harbi explained that her motivation comes from faith and support. “An imam once told me, ‘You’re actually walking in the footsteps of the Prophet, peace be upon him, because he always chose peace over conflict,’” she said. “That reminder keeps me going.”

Rosenblum later reflected on how HMTC’s educational mission has only intensified since Oct. 7. “Our work has grown, not diminished,” she said during the program’s closing. “Every student who walks through our doors is changed. It might only be for five minutes, but they are changed.” For her, partnerships like Sharaka reaffirm that Holocaust education remains vital, not only to remember but to inspire action against hate

HMTC’s executive director, Bali Lerner, highlighted that connection. Education, she said, must always reach young audiences who face a flood of misinformation online. “At the end of the day, until we teach the kids — because they’re on TikTok all day long and believe the propaganda — some of them may only hear the facts when they’re here,” Lerner said. She pressed the panel on whether Abraham Accord countries are reforming their school systems to reflect new values of coexistence. Al Harbi responded that Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco and even Saudi Arabia have begun updating curriculums to remove antisemitic content and emphasize tolerance.

After the event, Lerner reflected on the courage underlying Sharaka’s mission. In a message to the Herald, she wrote, “On the outside, they are very personable and genuine and appear so easygoing, but the truth is that what they are doing is extremely difficult. They get a lot of backlash every time they return home. It is amazing how some people find a way to do right — even though they were raised with hate and lies. They are truly remarkable and so admirable.”

Future doctors learn pain, addiction care

By ABIGAIL GRIECO agrieco@liherald.com

Third-year medical students at the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell gained skills that many physicians do not learn until well into their careers during Pain and Addiction Care Prevention Week Jan. 13-16.

In more than 25 hours of intensive instruction, students were trained to address pain, substance-use and alcohol-use disorders using harm-reduction strategies, non-opioid alternatives and patient-centered care.

Beyond clinical techniques, students were taught to listen more closely to patients’ experiences and approach treatment with empathy, a skill educators said is critical to addressing the ongoing substanceuse crisis.

“While opioids certainly have a place in medicine, historically doctors weren’t adequately trained in judicious prescribing practices,” said Dr. Sandeep Kapoor, assistant professor of medicine, emergency medicine, psychiatry and science education at the Zucker School.

Kapoor, who is also vice president of emergency medicine addiction services and director of screening, brief intervention and referral to treatment at Northwell Health, added, “Ensuring the next generation of physicians is equipped to approach complex conditions like pain and substance-use disorders will undoubtedly drive positive change in patient and community health,” he added.

PACE Week builds on instruction students receive during their first two years of medical school. In total, Zucker students complete more than 30 hours of patient-centered education focused on pain and substance use — more than at any other U.S. medical school — addressing a topic many clinicians find

uncomfortable or difficult to discuss.

The program also fulfills a federal requirement mandating that clinicians seeking or maintaining DEA registration complete at least eight hours of training in treating pain and opioid or other substance-use disorders.

Each day of PACE Week began with first-person accounts from people in recovery, family members affected by addiction, medical residents and Zucker alumni. Among them were two physicians in recovery, who shared the challenges of seeking help while navi-

gating professional expectations and fear of judgment. Family members described the emotional, financial and personal toll substance use disorders can have, emphasizing the need for compassion, strong support systems and recovery resources not only for patients, but also for those who care for them.

Students took part in workshops covering medications for opioid-use disorder, medicinal cannabis and multimodal pain care. One component focused on femoral nerve blocks, a non-opioid pain management technique that interrupts pain signals at their source using ultrasound-guided injections.

“Adding this level of training means our students are starting their careers with skills many clinicians only learn later,” said Dr. Simone Rudnin, a Northwell Health Emergency Department physician. “They’re prepared from day one to treat pain differently than we did even a decade ago.”

Kapoor said that such interventions could reduce reliance on opioid medications and lower the risk of future substance use disorder. “Students are learning practical interventions that can offer equal or better pain relief while reducing long-term risks of patients,” he said.

PACE Week concluded with student capstone presentations for Northwell executives and Hofstra leaders. Students made “elevator pitches,” debated ethical scenarios, shared public-service announcements and offered narrative reflections on addiction and care.

“Hearing physicians and family members speak openly about their lived experiences with addiction was profoundly impactful,” Alexandra Boubour, a third-year medical student, said. “Their vulnerability challenged stigma and reinforced the importance of empathy, transparency and community in both healing and medical culture.”

Myhan is first executive director at Nosh

By ROKSANA AMID ramid@liherald.com

As NOSH Delivers! continues to expand its reach across the North Shore, the Glen Cove-based food pantry has created a new executive leadership role, appointing longtime nonprofit and corporate executive Margaret Myhan as its first executive director.

Christine Rice, chairwoman of NOSH Delivers!’ board of directors, announced that the position was established in response to the pantry’s rapid growth and increasing operational demands.

Without those volunteers, we would be nowhere.

MARg ARet MyhAN executive director, Nosh

Myhan will oversee the organization’s management, operations and donor relations, responsibilities previously handled by board members. She will work closely with a 10-member board of directors, along with NOSH cofounder and director of youth and community engagement Courtney Callahan and Linda Eastman, the organization’s director of operations.

Founded in March 2020 at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, NOSH Delivers! now serves roughly 750 families each week across Glen Cove, Bayville, Roslyn, Locust Valley and Sea Cliff. , “Without those volunteers, we would be nowhere,” Myhan said. “Their kindness and their eagerness to jump in and help is just overwhelming.”

The pantry relies on food from LI Cares and Island Harvest, along with donations from supermarkets, bakeries, farm stands and community members. More than 370 volunteers prepare grocery bags, stock shelves, deliver food to homes and assist walk-in recipients at the VFW Hall in Glen Cove.

Myhan, a Garden City resident who grew up on Long Island, said she discovered NOSH Delivers! after the closure of Our Lady of Mercy Academy in Syosset, where she served as president and CEO for 12 years.

“I was googling not-for-profits, came across NOSH Delivers! and said, ‘This sounds interesting,’” she said. “I was very impressed with the short life of NOSH — the level of outreach and accomplishments certainly intrigued me.”

She said a lifelong emphasis on service made the role a natural fit.

“My parents were always very active in volunteerism, and that was inbred in us from the time we were kids to give back and get involved in the community,” Myhan said.

Before leading Our Lady of Mercy Academy, Myhan held senior executive roles at Rockefeller Group Business Centers, OgilvyOne, Rapp Collins Worldwide and Grey Direct Marketing.

Although Myhan was coy about her age, in 2012 she served as the general manager for Rockefeller Group Business Centers.

One of the programs she now helps oversee is NOSH’s Kids Food Independence Program, or KFIP, which provides take-home meals for children who rely on school food programs during the week.

“We’re going through about a thousand bags a week,” Callahan said. “That’s a tremendous amount, and it shows how much the need is there.”

Callahan said Myhan’s leadership has already strengthened the organization.

“She has really inspired me to be better at my job,” Callahan said. “The way she leads is kind, professional and empowering — it makes you feel supported and confident in what you’re doing.”

Callahan added that the KFIP program has become a unifying force within the community.

“It’s brought these kids together — kids who aren’t facing food insecurity but are so dedicated to helping families who are,” she said. “It makes everyone at NOSH go to bed at night knowing that children will have lunches over the weekend.”

Now working full time at the pantry, Myhan said she is focused on strengthening funding, supporting volunteers and ensuring NOSH can keep pace with rising food insecurity across Nassau County.

“They truly are the backbone of NOSH,” she said.

January

Lower and manage energy costs for your household or business

Understand outage response & reliability priorities that impact homes and local businesses

Use smart meters & Time-of-Day rates to better manage when and how you use energy

Learn what makes PSEG Long Island #1 for Small Business Electric Service in the East, and how those service improvements

Nominate a student under 18 for the Sustainability Champion Award to recognize their efforts in driving sustainable change.

Submit a nomination of approximately 100 words or less describing the student’s leadership in promoting sustainability: What motivates them? What impact have they had?

Be sure to include a photo or an example of their work—whether it’s a community garden, an environmental campaign, or a creative solution to a sustainability challenge.

District gives second budget presentation

allowable tax levy for the coming year is just over $92.7 million, an increase of 2.84 percent. Horoszewski emphasized that the number represents a ceiling set by the state formula, and doesn’t necessarily indicate what the district will ultimately propose to voters.

She also reviewed the district’s fund balance, describing it as a measure of financial health and flexibility. The fund balance is divided into nonspendable, restricted, assigned and unassigned categories. The unassigned fund balance, which functions as a stateapproved rainy-day fund, currently stands at $3.9 million, or 4 percent of the operating budget, the maximum level permitted by the state.

Horoszewski said that the district’s total fund balance declined between 2023 and 2025, from roughly $22.6 to just under $20 million, but she stressed that the reduction was planned and tied to the use of capital and repair reserves, not to lost revenue.

“I want to make this very clear,” she said, “that this was a planned and positive utilization of funds.”

The reserves, she added, provide stability for students by protecting classrooms during economic downturns and allowing the district to respond quickly to emergencies without cutting programs.

The remainder of the presentation focused on the noninstructional and transportation categories in the 2026-27 budget. Horoszewski reported a projected slight decrease in spending by the Board of Education, driven by reduced contractual expenses that better align with actual costs. The district clerk’s budget is expected to remain flat, while district meeting expenses, which include budget vote costs, are projected to increase by about $800.

The superintendent’s office budget shows an

increase of just over 1 percent, from $386,000 to $390,000, primarily due to contractual salary obligations for support staff. Business administration spending is projected to rise by roughly 2.6 percent, reflecting salary increases and a significant jump in contractual costs tied to Medicaid cost filing, which is calculated as a percentage of reimbursement claims.

Auditing costs are expected to increase by approximately 2.1 percent, as the district enters the third year

of five-year contracts for its external, internal and claims auditors. Modest increases are also projected for the treasurer and legal services lines, the latter to account for potential additional legal expenses.

The cost of personnel services is projected to rise by 4.27 percent, or just over $20,000, largely because of salary increases and a 5.44 percent increase in estimated BOCES services. Public relations spending is expected to increase by less than 1 percent.

Operations and maintenance of plant costs are projected to increase by 3 percent, driven by salaries and higher utility costs. The preliminary budget also includes a $102,000 increase for the purchase of a tractor for snow removal and grounds work. To offset that expense, the district plans to reduce contractual maintenance spending by $182,000.

Transportation spending is projected to decrease by 2.4 percent, largely due to a $49,000 reduction in salary costs. Contract transportation costs for buses the district does not own are expected to rise by less than 1 percent, though Horoszewski said that figure could change as the district reviews submissions from a recent request for proposals.

She also highlighted a reclassification in the unallocated insurance budget, shifting special-education stipulations into instructional codes. While BOCES administrative costs are projected to remain flat, property and liability insurance is expected to increase by 13 percent based on estimates from insurance carriers.

The board thanked Horoszewski for her presentation, and will continue its budget review at its Feb. 25 meeting, with presentations planned on athletics, technology and transfers to the capital line. To watch Wednesday’s meeting on YouTube, visit the district’s page, Locust Valley Board of Education.

BUSINESS EXPO & WORKSHOPS

STEPPING OUT

‘Metamorphosis’ unleashed

South Shore Symphony reinvents familiar melodies — and itself

By Abbey Salvemini

When the South Shore Symphony takes the stage on Jan. 31 at their Madison Theatre home, on the Molloy University campus, the evening represents more than a single stop in its season. It reflects the orchestra’s artistic transformation under the leadership of esteemed conductor Adam Glaser, now in his third year as music director.

Since he took the helm of the South Shore Symphony (from former Music Director Scott Jackson Wiley) he’s continued to foster connections with its musicians and shape a shared artistic identity. He describes his group as “a community of friends and musicians who are always striving for excellence,” and says the experience has been both energizing and collaborative.

expanded to include a full orchestra — involving winds, brass and percussion.

Pete Correale

As Glaser explains, the passacaglia is a type of continuous variation built over a repeating bass line, a form that dates back centuries.

“Among the many musical interests I enjoy exploring over lunch with my colleague Jim Millar, the Brahms symphonies constantly rise to the top, particularly the final movement of the Fourth Symphony, an orchestral passacaglia. When accepting Jim’s commission for a new work to be performed by the highly advanced orchestra he leads in beautiful Tenafly, I chose the passacaglia form for inspiration and structure,” he continues.

Glaser adds that his time with the South Shore Symphony inspired him to revisit the piece, allowing him to reimagine its full expressive possibilities.

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. 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.

Friday, Jan. 30, 9 p.m., doors open 8 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

• Saturday, January 31, 7:30 p.m.

• Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre

• Tickets available at madisontheatreny.org

An established composer, Glaser — whose prolific career includes roles as Music Director of the professional-caliber Juilliard Pre-College Orchestras and Director of Orchestras and Associate Professor of Music at Hofstra University — brings his keen musicality to this concert, titled “Metamorphosis.” Programmed around the time-honored musical form of “theme and variations,” the repertoire highlights how composers begin with a simple musical idea and reshape it in inventive, surprising and often dazzling ways.

“[They] are all unique in their own way, but they are presented together because they all share a common theme,” Glaser says.

This fascinating program unites four works from the 19th and 20th centuries, each offering its own take on the theme and variations form. It opens with the “Wedding March” from Karl Goldmark’s Rustic Wedding Symphony.

“While I would rarely excerpt one movement from a symphony, in this case, it is just brilliant as its own piece,” Glaser explains.

The concert’s centerpiece is a world premiere: the full orchestral version of Glaser’s own “Passacaglia.” Originally written in 2018 for a high school string orchestra in New Jersey, the piece has now been

“Since 2018, I have often felt that the string orchestra version of Passacaglia packed a lot of material into a relatively compact canvas, and wondered if the underlying composition might warrant an expansion that embraces all instrument families. Inspired by my new “musical family,” I am pleased to dedicate this new version to my friends in the orchestra and honored to conduct the premiere. This new version makes a few subtle references to a five-note musical signature derived from Rockville Centre’s zip code, 11570.”

Glaser acknowledges that conducting works by other composers presents its own challenges, requiring a balance between honoring the composer’s intentions and bringing his own interpretive insight to the music.

“Our job [as the conductor] is to be an advocate for the composer, but we only have notes on a page,” he says.

The evening’s second half celebrates musical reinvention with Korngold’s “Theme and Variations, Op. 42.” In seven short minutes, it delivers the sweeping melodies and lavish orchestration that earned Korngold his reputation for “Hollywood sound.”

“[Theme and Variations] takes it to the highest level possible,” Glaser says, pointing out that audiences will recognize the Hollywood influence in the brief composition.

The concert closes with Hindemith’s “Symphonic Metamorphosis of Themes” by Carl Maria von Weber, a piece that literally transforms Weber’s melodies into a bold, rhythmically vibrant orchestral adventure — bringing the program’s title of “Metamorphosis” full circle.

“[Symphonic Metamophosis] is such a brilliant example of how a composer can take a small amount of material and spin so many wonderful variations from it,” Glaser enthuses.

Beyond the individual works, he sees “Metamorphosis” as a symbol of the South Shore Symphony’s evolving journey.

This concert offers the audience both familiarity and discovery: beloved repertoire alongside a brand-new works, all connected by a single unifying idea. For Glaser, it is an opportunity to begin shaping the orchestra’s future while honoring its past.

The season continues with a trio of exciting performances in the months ahead. Jazz vocalist Jane Monheit joins the South Shore Symphony on March 8 for an evening of rich, lyrical storytelling. Later that month, on March 28, the orchestra tackles Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring,” promising a thrilling display of rhythm and energy. The season concludes on May 29 with their annual concert at St. Agnes Cathedral, uniting powerful voices and orchestra for Beethoven’s monumental “Ninth Symphony.

With “Metamorphosis,” the orchestra invites concertgoers to experience music as a living, evolving art form — where familiar melodies are reborn, new works take flight and the orchestra’s journey of transformation continues under Glaser’s inspired leadership.

‘Madness takes its toll’ Fasten your garter belt and come up to the lab and see what’s on the slab: It’s The Rocky Horror Picture Show! Do the Time Warp in celebration of 50 years of Richard O’Brien’s legendary cult classic musical on the big screen! In this legendary comedyhorror cult classic, sweethearts Brad (Barry Bostwick) and Janet (Susan Sarandon), stuck with a flat tire during a storm, discover the eerie mansion of Dr. Frank-N-Furter (Tim Curry), a self-proclaimed “sweet transvestite” scientist. As their innocence is lost, Brad and Janet meet a houseful of wild characters, including a rocking biker (Meat Loaf) and a creepy butler (Richard O’Brien). Through elaborate dances and rock songs, Frank-N-Furter unveils his latest creation: a muscular man named “Rocky.” Nothing beats a Rocky Horror screening where you can jump up and dance to the Time Warp in this live, interactive experience. Get into it and dress to impress!

Friday, Jan. 30, 8 p.m. $25. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CALENDAR

JAN

30

Intentional Listening Circle

Visit Oyster Bay Yoga to share stories, listen and connect with community members as part of their intentional listening circle led by Kaitlyn Pawlukojc. The group meets once a month. All are welcome.

• Where: 9 Audrey Ave., Oyster Bay

• Time: 6:30-8:30 p.m.

• Contact: oysterbayyoga.com or (516) 922-4222

JAN 31

Lunar New Year Celebration

Families are invited to vibrant celebration of art and music when Nassau County Museum of Art ushers in the Lunar New Year, honoring the rich creative contributions of Chinese culture. Activities include a Year of the Horse craft at the Manes Center. Before or after art making, head to the mansion to enjoy cultural performances. $20, $10 child; members free. Registration required.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 1- 2:30 p.m.

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

FEB

1

Winter In The Woods

Explore Sands Point Preserve’s natural environment on a guided tour. Examine the preserve’s unique physical features and wildlife, as well as critical conservation issues and helpful practices to create a healthy, sustainable environment. Environmental educator Hildur Palsdottir engages everyone in hands-on nature discovery activities as participants observe the changing season. Meet at Castle Gould’s Clock Tower.15, $10 members; children $5, free for members.

• Where: 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point

• Time: 10-11:30 a.m.

• Contact: call (516) 571-7901 or sandspointpreserveconservancy.org

FrostFest

Step into a world of frosty fun. The Whaling Museum and Education Center invites families to a spectacular day of wintry wonder at their second annual FrostFest. FrostFest is a seasonal celebration designed for kids of all ages. Dive into the icy secrets of the polar seas and uncover why the ocean’s coldest corners are teeming with surprises Young explorers can create frosty

Michael Carbonaro

snowman to take home. Tickets are limited. $70 per child.

• Where: 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point

• Time: Session One, 11:30 a.m.; Session Two, 11:4 5a.m.; Session Three, noon; Session Four, 12:15 p.m.

• Contact: call (516) 571-790 or sandspointpreserveconservancy.org

Camillia Festival

FEB

14

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

• Time: 7:30 p.m.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

Actor-magician-comedian Michael Carbonaro has built a career turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. Best known as the star of the hit truTV series “The Carbonaro Effect,” he’s made millions laugh in astonishment by blending quick-witted comedy with jaw-dropping illusions in everyday settings. On stage, Carbonaro has headlined two hit national tours, with a live show that mixes theatrical magic, sly improv, gleeful trickery, and playful audience participation. Now, he’s delighting audiences with his newest adventure, Michael Carbonaro: Wonderboy — a tour where audiences discover him as the Hero of Mischief, in a world where magic is the superpower and laughter is the sidekick. An accomplished actor, he’s appeared in “Law & Order: SVU,” “CSI: Miami,” and “Grey’s Anatomy,” among other projects. As a magician, he’s been named Magician of the Year by the Academy of Magical Arts and is the sole recipient of the Copperfield Prize, awarded for elevating the art of magic itself A performing magician since his youth, Carbonaro studied experimental theater at New York University with the aspirations of entertaining audiences through a variety of theatrical mediums, including hidden-camera magic, which he later showcased frequently on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.” Following Carbonaro’s frequent late-night appearances, Michael was presented with the opportunity to launch his hit comedic series, “The Carbonaro Effect.” A trickster at heart, Michael performs inventive tricks on unsuspecting members of the public who are unaware that he is a magician. Bringing wonder, mischief and magic to the stage — reality doesn’t stand a chance.

crafts, launch into action in their Catapult Lab, and try their hand at “tagging” arctic creatures in their polar fishing activity. Visitors can also enjoy frosty-themed face painting to complete their chilly transformation. Elsa from Disney’s “Frozen” makes a special appearance, giving guests the chance to strike a regal, icy pose with the Snow Queen herself. $8, $6 seniors (65+) and children (4-17).

• Where: The Whaling Museum and Education Center, 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor

• Time: 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

• Contact: cshwhalingmuseum.org or (631) 367-3418

Talking art

Nassau County Museum of Art welcomes Christian White. He discusses his work and artistic process rooted in the tradition of Realism. A descendant of a storied lineage of American artists, White continues to honor and expand this legacy through his detailed, perceptive paintings that capture the beauty and truth of everyday life.. $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

FEB

6

First Friday: Under Glass

Explore the beauty and remarkable history of Planting Fields historic Camellia House. Join Sustainability Coordinator Rebecca Slagle, and Archivist, Marie Penny tour-goers for a tour of a living legacy, discovering the Coe family’s passion for horticulture through a historic collection of more than 200 blooming camellias. Designed by the famed Olmsted Brothers Firm, the Camellia House stands as one of northeast’s most treasured architectural and horticultural gems. Learn about the English traditions of growing camellias under glass, uncover the fascinating design elements and evolution of the planthouse, and hear the story of the fire that once threatened this extraordinary collection, as well as the efforts that saved it. $25.

• Where: Camellia House. 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay

• Time: 10-11 a.m.

• Contact: plantingfields.org or call (516) 922-9210

FEB

7

Winter Forest Walk

Join naturalist Virginal Dankel for an interactive winter

stroll across the Nassau County Museum of Art grounds. During this seasonal walk, participants can expand their knowledge of the natural world and strengthen their powers of observation. Adults only. $20, $10 members. Registration required.

• Where: Manes Education Center, 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

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

FEB

Princess Adventure

Families can step into a real-life storybook on a journey through the castle at Sands Point Preserve on a magical adventure! Your little royal will be welcomed by two of their favorite princesses and begin their quest by creating a sparkling friendship bracelet. Next, venture into the castle library, where Princess Beauty and her Prince will challenge your storybook knowledge with a lively and interactive guessing game. Continue onward to the grand ballroom, where Rapunzel and Eugene will lead you in the enchanting Kingdom Dance. The adventure concludes with the Snow Sisters where you will “Let It Go” and make magical snow fall inside and build your very own

Planting Fields welcomes all to its annual winter festival. Experience the season’s most enchanting sight: over 200 camellia varieties in full bloom! Long celebrated for their elegance and color, these stunning flowers offer the perfect escape from the winter blues. This multi-sensory festival spans both the Main House and Camellia Greenhouse, with something for every visitor. Talented poets craft personalized, one-of-a-kind poems. View the Coe Family camellia plate display: Explore the historic dining room adorned with the family’s rare and exquisite camellia plates, a glimpse into the estate-era elegance, with curated tea tastings, workshops and more. Plus guided tours of the Camillia Greenhouse. Tickets required.

• Where: Main House and Camillia Greenhouse, 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay

• Time: Sessions from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. and 1-4 p.m.; also Feb. 15

• Contact: plantingfields.org or call (516) 922-9210

Valentine’s Evening with Jimmy Webb

Nassau County Museum of Art hosts a special benefit concert. Renowned songwriter-composersinger Jimmy Webb warms everyone up with a performance of his legendary hits, followed by a champagne and dessert reception, also exclusive evening access to the magnificent” Real, Surreal, Photoreal” exhibit. Limited availability, RSVP soon. $250 per person.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: 8-10 p.m.

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

By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO

America’s most-beloved groundhog

azingariello@liherald.com

The mammal, the myth, the legend — Punxsutawney Phil headlines Groundhog Day on Feb. 2 each year in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, as thousands gather for his traditional weather signal through centuries of seasonal lore.

Phil’s “birthday” and origins

Phil does not have an actual, documented birth date recognized by zoological or veterinary records.

No scientific or reliable registry shows the exact date this specific groundhog was born. Instead, the day that Phil appears each year, Feb. 2, is symbolically treated as his “birthday” because that is Groundhog Day, the annual event when he is presented to the public to make his traditional weather signal.

The idea that the same animal has been making predictions since the late 19th century comes from folklore maintained by the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club, which plays up the legend that Phil is “immortal” and survives by drinking a mythical “elixir of life.”

Phil’s diet — what groundhogs eat

There are no official records documenting a unique favorite food for Phil himself; the Groundhog Club does not publish a food preference list for him.

What scientists and wildlife experts do know is that groundhogs are primarily herbivores. In nature, they eat a wide range of vegetation, including grasses, clover, leaves, vegetables, fruits and other plant matter, and build up fat before hibernation.

Groundhogs may occasionally ingest small invertebrates such as insects or snail larvae, but this is rare and incidental; their diet is overwhelmingly plant-based. Because the species’ eating habits are documented across North America, it can be inferred that Phil, as a groundhog, feeds on the same sorts of plants and greens.

Why he is the “official” groundhog

The Groundhog Day tradition was formally established in 1887, when members of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club held an official ceremony at Gobbler’s Knob and designated a local groundhog as the community’s seasonal weather forecaster. The event’s roots trace back to older European traditions associated with Candlemas Day, where seeing a shadow on Feb. 2 was linked to continued winter weather.

German immigrants in Pennsylvania adapted this practice to use the locally common groundhog. Each year, Phil emerges before sunrise before a crowd and “predicts” weather by whether he sees his shadow; the Inner Circle of the Groundhog Club then reads a scroll announcing either six more weeks of winter or an early spring.

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January 29, 2026 —

LEGAL NOTICE

Public Notices

New York Surrogate’s Court Accounting Citation

SURROGATE’S COURT, NASSAU COUNTY CITATION

THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, By the Grace of God Free and Independent TO: Grassi Advisory Group, Inc. Office of the NYS Attorney General Jasper Surety Elizabeth Fey Sita Fey Erica Fey any and all unknown persons whose names or parts of whose names and whose place or places of residence are unknown and cannot after diligent inquiry be ascertained, distributees, heirs-atlaw and next-of-kin of the said Nathanial Johnson Jr. , deceased, and if any of the said distributees named specifically or as a class be dead, their legal representatives, their husbands or wives, if any, distributees and successors in interest whose names and/or places of residence and post office addresses are unknown and cannot after diligent inquiry be ascertained

A petition having been duly filed by Public Administrator of Nassau County, who is domiciled at 240 Old Country Road, Mineola, New York 11501. YOU ARE HEREBY CITED TO SHOW CAUSE before the Surrogate’s Court, Nassau County, at 262 Old Country Road, Mineola, New York, on February 25th, 2026, at 9:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day, why the account of Public Administrator of Nassau County, a summary of which has been served herewith, as Administrator of the estate of Nathanial Johnson Jr, should not be judicially settled.

[X] Further relief sought (if any):

1. Releasing and discharging the Petitioner from all liability, responsibility and accountability as to all matters set forth in the account of proceedings;

2. Allowing the commissions of the Petitioner in the amount of $ 10,230.03 pursuant to SCPA 2307(1) and the reasonable and necessary expenses of the office in the amount of $ 2,307.61 pursuant to SCPA

1207(4);

3. Fixing and determining the attorney’s fees and disbursements of Mahon, Mahon, Kerins & O’Brien, LLC attorney for petitioner in the amount of $ 26,603.28 as and for legal fees and $ 2,933.92 as and for disbursements, for a total of $29,537.20, of which $ 2,037.20 has been paid and $ 27,500.00 is unpaid;

4. Fixing and determining the accounting fees of Grassi & Co, CPA’s, PC in the amount of $ 8,560.00 of which $ 2,560.00 has been paid and $ 6,000.00 is unpaid;

5. Releasing and discharging the surety;

6. Directing each of you claiming to be a distributee of the Decedent to establish proof of your kinship, and show cause why the balance of said funds should not be paid to said alleged distributees upon proof of kinship or deposited with the New York State Comptroller on account for the unknown next of kin of Nathanial Johnson, Jr., decedent, should said alleged distributees default herein or fail to establish proof of kinship;

7. Granting such other and further relief as to the Court is just and proper Dated, Attested, and Sealed, December 22, 2025 (Seal)

HON. Rhonda E. Fischer

Surrogate s/ Debra Keller

Leimbach

Chief Clerk

Signature of Attorney

Richard T. Kerins, Esq.

Print Name of Attorney

Mahon, Mahon, Kerins & O’Brien, LLC

Firm Name (516) 538-1111

Telephone 254 Nassau Boulevard South, Garden City South, New York 11530

Address

Email (optional)

NOTE: This citation is served upon you as required by law. You are not required to appear. If you fail to appear it will be assumed that you do not object to the relief requested. You have a right to have an attorney appear for you, and you or your attorney may request a copy of the full account from the petitioner or

petitioner’s attorney. 157838

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. 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

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

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice of Sale

Supreme Court: Nassau County Point 62 LLC v Carol Gordon et al. Defts Index 605518/2022 Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale filed and entered September 12, 2023 I will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Dr. Mineola NY 11501 on February 26, 2026 at 2:00 pm premises known as School District 306 a/k/a BA-6, Section 66, Block 124, Lot 61, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau, State of New York Sold subject to the terms of sale and filed judgment of foreclosure. Bank Checks Only, must be payable to the Referee for 25% of Bid Price, No Cash Accepted. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” Covid-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health and safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction.

Ronald J Ferraro, Esq., Referee 157983

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, JOVIA FINANCIAL CREDIT UNION F/K/A NASSAU EDUCATORS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, Plaintiff, vs. JOSEPH W. BUFFA, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order

Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale and Other Relief duly entered on April 4, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 24, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 5 Hilltop Drive, Bayville, NY 11709. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Bayville, Town of Oyster Bay, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 29, Block 12 and Lots 67, 68 and 69. Approximate amount of judgment is $356,936.14 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to the provisions of filed Judgment Index #617497/2022. Keith Lavallee, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 231850-1 157969

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

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, STORMFIELD CAPITAL FUNDING I, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. 63 MILL RIVER ROAD, LLC A/K/A 63 MILL RIVER ROAD LLC, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order for Reformation, Confirming Referee’s Report of Amount Due and for Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on June 16, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on February 23, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 63 Mill River Road, Upper Brookville, NY 11771 a/k/a 63 Mill River Road, Glen Head, NY 11545. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the

Congress launches investigation into NUMC

Letter to Dr. Mehmet Oz requests federal guidance

By JORDAN VALLONE jvallone@liherald.com

Over a year has passed since former leadership at Nassau University Medical Center filed a lawsuit against New York state, alleging a decades-long Medicaid scam that deprived the largest safety-net hospital on Long Island of as much of $1 billion in aid.

Following a turbulent year at NUMC, in which its board and leadership was ousted and replaced by mostly state appointments, the federal Committee on Oversight and Government Reform is investigating the same reports, according to a Jan. 16 letter sent to Dr. Mehmet Oz, the administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medical Services within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

The alleged Medicaid scheme

In late-2024, Nassau University Medical Center and its parent public-benefit corporation, the Nassau Health Care Corporation, accused the state for withholding $1.06 billion, plus interest, in Medicaid payments that the hospital said it was entitled to receive.

According to notice-of-claims documents distributed to reporters at a November 2024 conference in the lobby of the East Meadow hospital, a disproportionately large share of patients served by NUMC are eligible for Medicaid. NUMC is one of three public hospitals in New York that serve all patients, regardless of their ability to pay for medical care.

Because of the large number of Medicaid patients, the hospital receives federal funding through the Disproportionate Share Hospital program and the Upper Payment Limit program — both Medicaid programs authorized under the Social Security Act. In order to

Herald file

An alleged Medicaid fraud scheme at Nassau University Medical Center re-surfaced in a letter by the House Oversight Committee. The committee is investigating allegations made against the state and requesting clarification for how funds from certain federal programs should be distributed.

receive payments from the federal government, states — in NUMC’s case, New York — must contribute their assigned share, commonly referred to as the state share or non-federal share, to hospital funding.

Typically, the state share matches the federal contribution.

According to the notice-of-claims documents, in 2024, NUMC was due to

Public Notices

Incorporated Village of Upper Brookville, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 24, Block B and Lot 893, as well as all personal property of Defendant as identified in that certain Consolidation, Extension, Spreader and Modification Agreement, dated as of November 15, 2022, and recorded on January 2, 2023 in Book M, Volume 46996, Page 950, and that certain Building Loan Mortgage, Assignment of Rents, Security Agreement and Fixture Filing, dated as of November 15, 2022, and recorded on January 20, 2023, in

Book M, Volume 47021, Page 307, and excluding any funds held by Plaintiff in any reserve, escrow, or suspense fund and excluding any funds held by Plaintiff in any cash management account. Approximate amount of judgment is $2,578,897.79 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #621084/2023. Melvyn Roth, Esq., Referee Polsinelli PC, Aaron P. Davis, Esq., 600 Third Avenue, 42nd Floor, New York, New York 10016, Attorneys for Plaintiff 157967

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT. NASSAU COUNTY. LOAN FUNDER LLC, SERIES 48848, Pltf. vs. 19 TIFFANY RD HOMES HOUSE 58 INC., et al, Defts. Index #600544/25. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered Jan. 9, 2026, I will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on March 3, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. premises k/a 19 Tiffany Road, Oyster Bay, Ny 11771 a/k/a Section 26, Block A, Lots 752 & 753. Approximate amount

of judgment is $1,267,502.77 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. The foreclosure sale will be held, “rain or shine.” SCOTT H. SILLER, Referee. DEUTSCH & SCHNEIDER, LLP, Attys. for Pltf., 79-37 Myrtle Ave., Glendale, NY 11385. File No. LF-570 - #102749 158109

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

tucky, and chair of the House Oversight Committee, said the committee is “investigating reports that the State of New York has been failing to abide by current law and properly match federal Medicaid funds.”

Comer stated that the committee is concerned that the state, and potentially other states, are failing to follow federal law by “misrepresenting the source of the non-federal share that the state is responsible for providing to trigger federal dollars under the Medicaid DSH program.”

Citing articles on the alleged Medicaid scheme by both the Herald and the New York Post, Comer said “reports on this scheme indicate that the state has engaged in this behavior for more than 20 years, costing taxpayers over $1 billion for one hospital alone, Nassau University Medical Center.”

The committee, he said, initiated an investigation in July of last year by sending a letter to Hochul and the state’s Executive Chamber, and has received some, but “nowhere near all” of the requested documents and communications.

receive DSH payments totaling roughly $100.2 million. The federal share of the DSH payments was half of that total, around $50.1 million, which was transferred to the State Department of Health for distribution.

The documents alleged that the state orchestrated a ruse to mislead the federal government by requiring NUMC to front the state’s contractual share of the DSH funds from its own operating account. As a result, NUMC received only half of the DSH payments it was entitled to, because the state required the hospital to fund its own non-federal share.

The hospital alleged that it had been a victim of similar schemes since at least 2001.

Throughout 2025, a restructured board was implemented at the Nassau Health Care Corporation and NUMC, due to provisions that passed in the state’s budget in May. These changes ousted former leadership who brought the allegations against the state. Gov. Kathy Hochul appointed a new chairman of the board, Stuart Rabinowitz, a former president at Hofstra University. The hospital also welcomed Thomas Stokes as its new chief executive earlier this month.

On Jan. 15, the hospital announced it had received $109.6 million in funding from state leadership.

Letter to Dr. Mehmet Oz

In a Jan. 16 letter to Oz, U.S. Rep. James Comer, a Republican from Ken -

Comer wrote that four members of Congress from New York wrote to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert Kennedy, Jr. and the Acting Administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Stephanie Carlton and “requested clarification on the obligation of states, including New York, to ensure timely and complete DSH payments to NUMC and other eligible hospitals.” They also requested a review of the situation that occurred at NUMC to determine if the state’s actions are in compliance with federal statutes and regulations.

Comer requested a briefing to assist in the investigation, as well as the issuing of a “formal clarification regarding the proper sourcing of non-federal share funds for the Medicaid DSH program.”

State’s response

State officials have long said the takeover at NUMC was necessary, citing a storied history of mismanagement that they say put the hospital into financial distress.

A spokesperson for the governor told the New York Post, covering the same matter at the hospital: “NUMC’s previous leadership left the hospital in a deep financial hole because of years of mismanagement and an outright refusal to meet the state’s basic oversight requirements, putting patient care at risk.”

The money provided to the hospital earlier this month, according to a release shared with the Herald, reflects the state’s “recognition of the hospital’s progress under new leadership and its commitment to stabilizing operations while preserving access to essential health care services for Long Island residents.”

opinions

We must protect our veterans — from themselves

As a staunch advocate for the health and well-being of New York’s veterans, Gov. Kathy Hochul signed legislation in 2021 to prevent veteran suicides. Regardless of which side of the political aisle you’re on, we can all agree this is a worthy endeavor. With these suicides continuing at an alarming rate, however, it’s become necessary to expand on that effort in order to prevent as many needless tragedies as possible. Veteran suicide is a significant public health crisis in New York. With nearly 600,000 veterans, we have one of the largest populations of any state. Although New York’s overall suicide rate is lower than the national average, veterans in the state die by suicide at nearly twice the rate of nonveterans. Younger veterans, ages 18 to 34, are particularly at risk, having the highest suicide rates. Nationally, more than 6,400 veterans died by suicide in 2022, underscoring the urgency of targeted and sustained prevention efforts. New York state has already committed, as a matter of policy, to addressing

this epidemic through participation in federal veteran-suicide prevention and mortality-review initiatives led by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. New York has formally joined the Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Veteran Suicide, and has convened stakeholder meetings and implementation discussions to develop a Veteran Suicide Mortality Review process.

Veterans in New York state die by suicide at nearly twice the rate of non-veterans.

Despite these commitments, however, the review board has not been fully implemented or operationalized, because it lacks a clear statutory framework requiring interagency cooperation, data sharing and coordinated review. As is the case with other mortality review efforts, the absence of statutory authority has resulted in fragmented and incomplete implementation.

Under current law, state agencies are not mandated to share information, participate in reviews or align their efforts in a unified manner. As a result, data remains fragmented across the Department of Health, the Office of Mental Health, the Division of Veterans’ Services, medical examiners and federal partners, undermining the state’s ability to

Tconduct comprehensive reviews, identify systemic failures and make effective policy recommendations. Without clear statutory direction, participation remains discretionary, reviews are inconsistent and the state is unable to fully analyze the circumstances surrounding veteran suicide deaths or identify systemic gaps in care, services and transitions. This lack of coordination significantly limits the state’s ability to develop evidence-based recommendations to prevent future deaths.

With this in mind, I am sponsoring a bill establishing the statutory structure necessary to implement existing state policy as intended. It does not create a new program or duplicate existing efforts. Rather, it codifies and formalizes the Veteran Suicide Mortality Review Board within the Department of Health, ensuring that the work already underway is conducted in a coordinated, multidisciplinary and nonfragmented manner. The board has already identified funding streams, and intends to operate within the existing Department of Health infrastructure. This legislation simply provides the legal authority required to mandate interagency participation, protect confi-

dentiality and ensure consistent review and reporting.

By placing the Veteran Suicide Mortality Review Board in statute, this bill ensures accountability, durability and effectiveness. A statutory mandate is the only mechanism that will allow New York state to fully implement its existing commitments, eliminate silos between agencies and carry out meaningful, data-driven suicide-prevention work for veterans across the state.

I lost high school classmates in Vietnam and had a cousin killed in the World War II, so the plight of those who have fought for our country after returning home is especially important to me. This is why I’m also sponsoring a bill to create a Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Flag, to remember and honor those who have fallen victim to this epidemic and to raise awareness and break the stigma of suicide, which are key to preventing this unnecessary loss of life.

Veterans face unique risk factors that generic suicide-prevention structures alone cannot address. We must meet such challenges head on in order to protect those who risked their lives to protect our democracy from perhaps their worst and most powerful enemy — themselves.

Charles Lavine represents the 13th Assembly District.

Health care reform is a failure from top to bottom

here are very few things that scare me. Black cats coming my way are a nuisance. Bumps on an airliner are expected, and I don’t panic. Those crazy e-bike drivers who can kill you in a heartbeat are dangerous, but I’m constantly on the lookout for them. Odd-looking people on the street can be frightening, but I cross fast to avoid them.

So what scares me? It’s the American health care system, which can frighten people to death, no pun intended. A month ago I wasn’t feeling peppy, and was sleepy in the middle of the day. It felt like a hangover, but I’m not a drinker, so that wasn’t it. I decided to go to an emergency room, fearing some malady that I didn’t recognize. It turned out that I had a pulse of 38, which is dangerously low unless you’re, say, a professional triathlete.

I arrived at the ER (of a purposely unnamed hospital) on a Friday, which

means you’re destined to stay in the hospital over the weekend. In fairness, if you’re having a heart attack or a stroke, you’ll get immediate attention, but all other symptoms get lesser treatment. Once I saw some physicians, they gave swift attention to the issue and how to resolve it. I spent a total of four nights at the hospital, and a few weeks later I learned that the bill was $249,892.

TFortunately, I have coverage for the claim, which eventually was reduced to $13,405, which was paid by my insurer. The size of the original statement is typical in hospitals all over the country, which tend to inflate their charges to astronomical numbers in order to get to a fair settlement. For the better part of my life, I have seen dozens of bills that list crazy charges, all in the effort to get to a livable amount.

alive.

Let’s start with the hospitals. In 23 years in Albany, I heard countless stories about the hospital lobby and the steps it takes to protect its turf. Periodically, legislation is introduced that would correct a flaw in the delivery system, but if it doesn’t meet with the approval of the hospital industry, it dies a silent death.

he clock will continue to tick, and many more patients will face $250,000 bills.

Last year the health care industry spent $653 million on issues involving Congress. Hospitals are a part of that mammoth number, but there’s a heated competition among all types of providers. And the major blame is on Congress and the presidents.

— in 2020. House Speaker Mike Johnson said he had a bipartisan bill ready for action, but in the end he passed a onehouse, partisan bill that is going nowhere. Over in the Senate they had a “great bill” three weeks ago, and it crashed and burned. At this moment, a bipartisan group of senators say they are “making progress” on a bill, but I’ll get many haircuts before their dream comes true.

Two presidents have come and one is gone since Obamacare was passed. No bill has come from a White House occupant or Congress, so what should health care providers do? Year after year goes by, and there are no changes to existing law. Obamacare patients are getting hit with horrifying increases. Congress is in a state of continuous gridlock.

Are the hospitals the major culprit? No, it’s the entire system. There’s a massive game going on all over America, played by health care providers, insurers and Congress, which makes the system the mess that it is. Each one has to use all the gimmicks it knows to stay

Waiting for Congress to come up with a health care bill that satisfies all of the parties is an impossible dream. Part of the reason there’s never any compromise solution is the role of the president. The Obama administration passed a major bill that everyone agrees is in need of tweaking. But who’s going to tweak it?

President Trump promised to come up with a new bill “ within two weeks”

The clock will continue to tick, and there will be many more patients dealing with $250,000 bills. Congress’s failure to find a solution is an indictment of our elected officials from top to bottom.

Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He currently chairs the Capitol Insight Group, a government relations firm. Comments? jkremer@liherald.com.

History’s lessons demand lifelong vigilance

though this month’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day and International Holocaust Remembrance Day have passed, the lessons we can take from both are lifelong.

On Jan. 19, the nation commemorated the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the civil rights movement. MLK Day isn’t just a celebration of one man’s achievements; it is a call to examine the enduring struggle for racial justice, equality and human dignity. King’s life and legacy remind us that progress is neither automatic nor permanent. It must be protected through vigilance, education and moral courage.

Eight days later was Holocaust Remembrance Day — another solemn day of commemoration. Each year on Jan. 27 — the date of the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp in 1945 — we pause to reflect on one of history’s darkest chapters and reaffirm our responsibility to remember. The day commemorates the 6 million Jewish men, women and children murdered by the Nazi regime during World War II, along with millions of others, including Roma, people with disabilities, political dissidents, members of sexual minorities and others who were targeted and killed.

Remembrance days such as these are often accompanied by moments of

silence, educational programs, survivor testimonies, memorial ceremonies, museum exhibits and classroom discussions across the globe. These observances are intentional acts of learning and reflection, meant to ensure that history is not forgotten, distorted or repeated.

What unites the remembrance of the Holocaust, MLK Day and similar historical observances is their shared warning: injustice thrives in silence, ignorance and apathy.

In our era, which is experiencing rising antisemitism, racism, xenophobia and political polarization, these lessons are more urgent than ever. Misinformation spreads quickly, and historical facts are sometimes questioned or deliberately distorted. Remembrance days serve as anchors of truth. They remind us that these events are not abstract or distant; they happened to real people, within living memory, and their consequences still shape our world today.

Education is the most powerful antidote to hate. Learning about the Holocaust helps people understand where intolerance can lead when fear and conspiracy replace empathy and critical thinking. Studying the civil rights movement reveals how ordinary people, from students to clergy to workers, can challenge unjust systems through collective action, nonviolence and moral clarity.

These stories empower new generations to recognize injustice and believe that change is possible.

Importantly, remembrance is not about assigning guilt to those alive today, but about assigning responsibility. Responsibility to speak out against hate, to protect democratic values, to stand with marginalized communities and to recognize early warning signs of injustice. When we remember, we honor the victims by committing ourselves to a more humane future.

These observances also create space for empathy. Survivor testimonies and historical narratives humanize events that can otherwise feel overwhelming or distant. They remind us that behind every statistic is a person with dreams, family and dignity. This human connection is essential in countering the tendency to reduce others to labels or stereotypes.

Remembering is not passive. It is an active commitment to learning, teaching and acting. By honoring the lessons of the Holocaust, King’s legacy and other pivotal moments in history, we affirm the shared values of dignity, justice and humanity. In doing so, we help ensure that “Never again” and “Justice for all” aren’t empty phrases, but guiding principles for the present and the future.

New Yorkers deserve more retirement investment options

as the cost of living continues to rise across New York — from housing and energy to groceries and health care — many families and small-business owners, especially those from historically underserved communities, are being forced to make painful tradeoffs that leave little room to save for retirement.

To build a more resilient financial future, workers with 401(k) plans should have more opportunities to diversify their nest eggs. That’s why we need to ensure that private-sector employees have access to the same options long enjoyed by publicsector pension holders.

Today, that parity does not exist. While public pension systems have long been able to invest in private-market assets such as private equity, real estate and infrastructure — which can generate outsized long-term growth — the vast majority of 401(k) plans remain confined to traditional public stocks and bonds. This leaves millions of privatesector workers — including a dispropor-

tionate share of African American employees — with fewer tools to grow their retirement savings in an increasingly expensive economy.

There is some good news: the U.S. Department of Labor has taken initial steps to implement rulemaking that would expand access to private-market investments, creating a path toward closing this gap. Critically, the proposal also aims to protect employers from speculative lawsuits for offering employees more options to invest.

pA clear majority of voters favor allowing access to these assets, according to a recent poll by the Council for a Safe & Secure Retirement. Support is broad and bipartisan, with 62 percent of Black voters, 69 percent of Hispanic voters, and majorities of both workingclass and middle-class voters — no matter whom they voted for in the last election — backing the inclusion of private markets and more diverse investment options in 401(k) plans.

in 2025, and generated an impressive 11.9 percent return on investment. Private-sector workers of every stripe should be allowed the same retirement opportunities as public-sector workers.

Beyond New York, private assets have been outperforming public stocks for years. From 2002 to 2022, the average annual returns for private-equity investments were estimated to be 14.75 percent, compared with 9.25 percent for the S&P 500 and 8.84 percent for the Dow Jones Industrial Average.

rivatesector employees don’t have publicsector pension holders’ choices.

For decades, public pension plans have enjoyed access to these investments, while those working for Main Street businesses missed out. In fact, infrastructure made up a total of $9.1 billion of New York City pension plans

Framework by Patrick Baker

Private investment also helps drive capital to minority-owned businesses. Earlier this year, the New York City Employees’ Retirement System reported a total of $26.5 billion allocated to minority- and women-owned investment managers, representing 14.6 percent of the fund’s U.S.-based actively managed assets. These allocations not only expand opportunities for diverse firms, but also demonstrate that investing with minority, women and emerging managers can deliver competitive returns, with privatemarket portfolios outperforming publicmarket equivalents by roughly 7 percent.

New York’s pension funds illustrate how private markets can generate wealth while promoting inclusion. This

model can and should be emulated with 401(k) plans by enabling them to offer private-market investments for privatesector employees.

Unlocking these investments for private-sector workers can also strengthen local economies, build wealth and create a cycle of opportunity and prosperity. A whopping 85 percent of private-equitybacked businesses are small companies. By investing in private-equity funds that support local entrepreneurs, retirees won’t just enhance their returns; they can nurture economic growth in their own communities.

By moving forward with formal rulemaking to clarify how private-market investments can be included in 401(k) plans, the Labor Department can provide plan fiduciaries with the certainty needed to diversify investment options and help our historically underserved communities grow long-term wealth. Acting decisively would ensure that retirement security and inclusive investing aren’t just goals for public funds, but for private-sector workers as well. All of our communities deserve the same opportunity to invest and build a more secure future.

Phil Andrews is president of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce and founding president of the New York City Minority Small Business Chamber of Commerce.