Senate Resolution No. 1447

BY: Senator MARTINS

COMMENDING HEARTS PW upon the occasion of hosting
its Red Party on February 27, 2026, and paying
tribute to its distinguished honorees

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend those organizations and individuals whose commitment to
community enrichment, education, and the arts significantly enhances the
quality of life for the residents of the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, HEARTS PW (Helping Enrich the Arts of Port Washington) has
long been dedicated to supporting, promoting, and sustaining arts and
cultural programming throughout the Port Washington community, thereby
fostering creativity, access, and engagement for residents of all ages;
and

WHEREAS, HEARTS PW will host its annual Red Party on Friday,
February 27, 2026, a signature fundraising and celebratory event that
highlights the organization's mission and honors individuals whose
service and leadership have had a profound impact on the arts in Port
Washington; and

WHEREAS, This year's Red Party proudly honors Eric Gewirtz, Lauren
Foster-Holzer, and Christine Nelson, three exceptional individuals whose
dedication to arts leadership and education exemplifies the highest
ideals of public service and community commitment; and

WHEREAS, Eric Gewirtz has demonstrated exceptional leadership
through his service on the HEARTS PW Board since 2017, including his
tenure as Board President from 2020 through 2025, during which time he
guided the organization through the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic
while strengthening its governance and expanding its impact; and

WHEREAS, During his presidency, Eric Gewirtz worked closely with the
Board to recruit new members, significantly increase total grant awards
year over year, and elevate the organization's visibility through
strategic and engaging storytelling within the Port Washington
community; and

WHEREAS, A lifelong advocate for the arts, Eric Gewirtz has built a
distinguished career in arts communications, supporting major cultural
institutions including the New York Philharmonic and Lincoln Center, and
now serves as Senior Vice President at Rubenstein Communications, while
continuing to serve HEARTS PW through leadership of PortFest and
oversight of communications; and

WHEREAS, Lauren Foster-Holzer is a dedicated educator and arts
leader who has directed musical productions and produced drama
productions for the Schreiber Theatre Company for the past 17 years,
creating inclusive and inspiring theatrical experiences that foster
artistic growth and personal development among students; and

WHEREAS, A proud alumna and resident of Port Washington, Lauren
Foster-Holzer has deep roots in the community and serves the Port

Washington School District as a Special Education teacher at Paul D.
Schreiber High School, as well as an advisor to the Student Council and
a coach of the Portettes; and

WHEREAS, Through her commitment to collaboration, creativity, and
student-centered learning, Lauren Foster-Holzer has shaped meaningful
educational and artistic experiences that resonate long after the final
curtain call, and she remains grateful to be honored by HEARTS PW, a
steadfast supporter of the Schreiber Theatre Company; and

WHEREAS, Christine Nelson is a dedicated educator, director, and
theater professional who has served the Paul D. Schreiber High School
community for many years as both a Science Teacher and a creative
co-leader of the Schreiber Theatre Company; and

WHEREAS, Christine Nelson brings extensive professional experience
to her work, including prior service as Lead Teacher for Arts in
Education for Nassau County BOCES, performance and directing experience,
and advanced training in educational theater, acting, and directing from
respected institutions; and

WHEREAS, Christine Nelson is being recognized alongside Lauren
Foster-Holzer for their nearly two-decade partnership defined by
collaboration and artistic excellence, through which they have directed
and produced an extensive repertoire of stage plays and musicals that
have enriched the cultural life of Port Washington and supported the
creative journeys of countless students; and

WHEREAS, The collective dedication and achievements of the honorees
exemplify the mission of HEARTS PW and underscore the essential role
that arts organizations and arts educators play in strengthening
communities and enriching public life; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend HEARTS PW upon the occasion of hosting its Red Party on February
27, 2026, and to honor Eric Gewirtz, Lauren Foster-Holzer, and Christine
Nelson for their outstanding service, leadership, and enduring
contributions to the arts and education in Port Washington; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to HEARTS PW and this year's aforementioned honorees.