When I applied for the job of editor of The Nassau Herald, I had all the qualifications. I was an editor before, I am well-versed in writing and proofreading, and I even have experience in pagination. But of all the assets that I have brought to this job – there is one that was sorely lacking – my knowledge of the Five Towns.

Jokingly, when I was asked what the Five Towns were during my initial interview, I said they were Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island – because all of my life – that’s what I’ve known. But since I took the reigns of The Herald, I have begun to acquire a knowledge of this community – and so far – I am very impressed.

Since my first day, I have met many people who both live and work here, and although different in their individuality, each one has displayed one similar quality – a love for their community. Whether it is Lawrence Public Schools Superintendent John T. Fitzsimons, Woodmere resident Noah Fisch, Hewlett House Executive Director Geri Barish, Cedarhurst Restaurateurs Lino and Elsa Viola, or Inwood’s Anne Reyes of the Five Towns Senior Center – I have to say that everyone I have met from the Five Towns to this point deserves four stars.

No matter what part of the Five Towns the people I have met are from, regardless of what their role in their community is, and despite the fact that they know much more about the area than I do – they have welcomed me with open arms and made me feel like one of their own – and that is something that I am very grateful for. When I first got this job, I was concerned that I would be looked upon as an “outsider,” or as someone who is not “from the neighborhood.” But, thankfully, I have been accepted as an honorary Five Towner from the first day my named topped the Nassau Herald’s staff box.

While I may have met some Five Towns residents so far, my ultimate goal is to meet as many people who live in the Five Towns as possible. If you are a community leader, if you have a story that you want my ace reporter Andrew Coen and I to cover – or if you are reading this paper and just want to say hello – please contact me. Again if you need my contact information, here it is. My office number is (516) 569-4000, Ext. 204, and my e-mail address is nassaueditor@liherald.com.

Incidentally, I may have grown up in Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn and now currently reside in Marine Park – but since October 10 – my heart now resides in the Five Towns…and I think it will stay here for a long, long time to come.

Thanks for welcoming me with such sincerity.