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O’Connor discusses how looking back at 2025 to prepare for the 2026 tax season in New York.

NEW YORK, NY, UNITED STATES, January 16, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ —

While the holiday season has come to an end, the property tax season in New York is just beginning. Although that may be one of the worst tradeoffs imaginable, it is important to start the new year by being prepared. Property is the most important investment that property owners can own, and staying on top of taxes is vital to ensure that owners and their home or business remain financially secure for years to come. New York has some of the highest property taxes in the nation, so it always pays to be informed and ready when the tax bills come.

From new exemptions to new federal laws, there were many changes in 2025 when it comes to property taxes in New York. If owners wish to utilize these new changes, it is best to research them and be prepared for the tax season ahead. In this article, O’Connor will go over the basics that owners need, and explain the changes that will benefit them now and in the future.

Starting with Basic Preparations for Tax Season

The New Year is a great time to get back to basics, and the same can be said for tax preparedness. Much like a New Year’s resolution, starting 2026 with a solid plan goes a long way toward having a fantastic year. We have previously covered this in-depth, so we will provide a brief primer. First, owners will want to find all of the key deadlines that they need to know. This includes when taxes are due, deadline to file grievances on the assessment, payment plan schedules, and more. By staying abreast of these dates, owners can get everything paid on time and avoid adding penalties and interest to the tax bill. Owners are advised to check with their county to verify when the deadlines are.

Owners must mind their deductions and exemptions, as both are key to managing costs. The deadline for applying for exemptions is typically between January and March, so it is important to review the assessment to see if any are missing before March rolls around. Reviewing the assessment in general is a great first step, as it also allows owners to find any basic errors. Owners would be surprised how many assessments list incorrect square footage or property class, or add things like a garage that do not exist. A quick review can help owners spot these errors, allowing them to file a grievance before the deadline, which will vary depending on where the property is located, but the deadline for filing a Nassau county grievance is March 2, 2026.

Senior Homeowners Land Expanded Exemptions

Like most states, the largest contributor to a tax bill is usually the local school district. Taxpayers of all ages can get a break on these taxes by utilizing the School Tax Relief Program (STAR). Originally a standard homestead exemption, the STAR has morphed over time. The exemption aspect is still available, cutting $30,000 from a home’s taxable value from the rolls. However, this is not available to new homeowners. Instead, they get refunds to help offset costs, usually between $250 and $500. If owners were grandfathered into the exemption, they can switch to receiving the check, but they cannot go back to the exemption. Keeping the STAR exemption encourages long-term ownership.

For seniors, 2025 saw a new boost added. Seniors have always had access to the Enhanced STAR program, which removed $85,000 from the taxable value of a home, or $800 to $1,500 through a credit. This was often paired with a senior citizen exemption, which exempted up to 50% of a home’s taxable value, giving double savings to older residents. However, there was an income cap of $50,000. A new law passed in 2025 added an enhanced senior exemption option, the first increase seen in New York in decades. This boosts the exemption to 65%, though it is up to the local taxing entities if this will be used or not. With Enhanced STAR and a senior citizen exemption, owners may avoid paying school taxes entirely.

Expanded SALT Deductions Turn Property Taxes into Federal Tax Breaks

One of the biggest pieces of legislation passed in 2025 to benefit New York homeowners came at the federal level. As part of the One Big Beautiful Bill, the state and local tax (SALT) deduction was enhanced dramatically. To simplify the law, it allows certain homeowners to reduce their federal income tax burden by applying what they paid in property taxes. In the past, the cap for deductions was set at $10,000. Thanks to the 2025 changes, the SALT exemption cap has grown to $40,000. This opens the door to millions more homeowners when it comes to maximizing federal savings.

While a boon for New York, the SALT changes also help high-tax states like Illinois and Texas. The new changes help level the playing field with low-tax states as well. Before the changes, over 25% of New Yorkers did not get the full SALT benefit. This has been reduced to just 2.5%. To qualify for the full $40,000, owners must have an income lower than $500,000. If owners are filing jointly, this income cap grows to $1 million. Married couples filing separately can write off $20,000 each. Combined with sales tax, it is possible to save a good deal more than the standard deduction.

The Tentative Assessment Roll Previews Future Issues

One aspect of property taxes that New York has over most other states is the tentative assessment roll. This is released in January, and previews the upcoming year. For example, the tentative roll released in 2026 will preview the assessments for the 2027-2028 tax year. This is essentially a more comprehensive assessment review. Because owners are looking so far ahead into the future, they can use the tentative roll to spot issues earlier than ever before, allowing them more time to file a grievance, along with affording owners the opportunity to build more evidence needed for this appeal.

The tentative roll allows owners to look up both the assessment preview and that of others. It also allows them to compare your fair market value to home sales in the area. If they find a large discrepancy, that can be valid grounds for a grievance. Owners can also use this preview to zero in on any incorrect pedigree information. This includes the number of rooms, property class, or external structures, like garages or decks. Also, if they believe that their assessed value is incorrect, that is also grounds for a future grievance. Owners will want to put together evidence to prove their claim, such as comparative home sales or comparisons with similar and neighboring properties.

About O’Connor:
O’Connor is one of the largest property tax consulting firms, representing 185,000 clients in 49 states and Canada, handling about 295,000 protests in 2024, with residential property tax reduction services in New York, Texas, Illinois, and Georgia. O’Connor’s possesses the resources and market expertise in the areas of property tax, cost segregation, commercial and residential real estate appraisals. The firm was founded in 1974 and employs a team of 1,000 worldwide. O’Connor’s core focus is enriching the lives of property owners through cost effective tax reduction.

Property owners interested in assistance appealing their assessment can enroll in O’Connor’s Property Tax Protection Program ™. There is no upfront fee, or any fee unless we reduce your property taxes, and easy online enrollment only takes 2 to 3 minutes.

Patrick O’Connor, President
O’Connor
+ + + +1 713-375-4128
email us here
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Tina D. Connan highlights resilience strategies to support and guide middle school students in overcoming challenges and building confidence.

BOCA RATON, FL, UNITED STATES, January 16, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Tina D. Connan, NCC, LMHC, Certified K–12 Teacher, National Board Certified Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Teen Life Coach, is drawing renewed attention to her resilience-focused guide, Building Resilience in Middle School. The book, available through Amazon, offers structured, practical, and developmentally informed guidance for helping middle school students strengthen resilience, manage stress, develop emotional awareness, and build the foundations necessary for long-term growth. Its ongoing relevance aligns with Connan’s continued work supporting adolescents and young adults across South Florida and beyond.

The book examines the academic pressures, social transitions, emotional fluctuations, and developmental changes that typically emerge during the middle school years. Connan’s experience in both therapeutic and educational settings informed the strategies presented, allowing parents, educators, and school staff to better understand how resilience can be strengthened through everyday experiences. The content supports adolescents in building resilience, self-confidence, emotional regulation skills, and adaptability during a developmentally important stage.

The middle school period often represents a time of rapid adjustment. Students encounter new environments, increased academic demands, peer-related stressors, and shifting emotional development. The book outlines the importance of resilience-building to help students navigate these experiences responsibly and independently. Connan’s background as both a certified teacher and licensed mental health professional influences the book’s skills-based structure, which includes identifying stressors, developing coping techniques, establishing routines, and understanding emotional patterns.

By focusing on actionable strategies rather than abstract theory, Building Resilience in Middle School addresses needs frequently observed in Connan’s mental health and coaching practice. Adolescents often benefit from structured guidance related to self-confidence development, communication skills, social challenges, time management, and executive functioning. These areas are integrated through real-world examples and age-appropriate exercises designed to support both students and the adults working with them.

Connan also offers teen life coaching services to tweens, teens, and young adults, focusing on personal growth and skill development. Her coaching includes strengthening self-confidence, improving decision-making, understanding personal strengths, identifying obstacles, and establishing goals that support academic and emotional progress. Many coaching clients are middle school students who are beginning to build independence while navigating complex social and academic transitions.

Self-confidence development remains a central theme of both Connan’s professional work and the book. Middle school students often encounter self-doubt, shifting peer dynamics, and questions related to identity. The book presents techniques designed to help students develop resilience, internal awareness and confidence through consistent habits and reflection practices that support stability and growth during periods of change.

Building Resilience in Middle School is designed for adults who support adolescent development. It outlines common behavioral and emotional patterns observed during the middle school years and offers guidance for recognizing changes that may require attention. By improving adult awareness and response, the book encourages early intervention and proactive skill-building that may reduce long-term stress and promote emotional stability.

The guide is relevant for parents seeking insight into middle school stressors, teachers and school staff looking for practical classroom or counseling strategies, and school staff wanting to better understand the emotional stages associated with early adolescence. It also supports after-school programs, youth mentors, and community organizations working with middle school-aged students.

Connan provides both virtual and in-person coaching and therapy options. Virtual sessions offer flexibility for families managing busy schedules or living outside the local area and are conducted through secure platforms that support confidential communication. For families near Boca Raton, in-person appointments remain available at Connan’s private practice. This dual model allows families to choose formats that best meet their needs and complements the guidance provided in the book by offering opportunities to reinforce resilience-building strategies.

The book also addresses how parents and school staff can encourage consistent habits in students who may struggle with motivation, focus, or self-perception. It provides practical steps adults can use when discussing emotions, academic responsibilities, and social concerns with middle school-aged children. Building Resilience in Middle School is available through Amazon and other online retailers.

About Tina D. Connan

Tina D. Connan is a National Board Certified Licensed Mental Health Counselor (NCC, LMHC), Certified K–12 Teacher, and Teen Life Coach with more than 25 years of experience working with adolescents and young adults. Her private practice offers therapy, life coaching, academic support, and parent guidance for clients managing emotional regulation, self-confidence, school-related challenges, executive functioning difficulties, and social development needs. Connan provides services both virtually and in person at her Boca Raton office.

Tina D. Connan
Tina D. Connan
+1 561-910-0904
tina@tinaconnan.com

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Global Media Female Media Company Recognizes Top Women to KNOW in Florida

PHOENIX, AZ, UNITED STATES, January 16, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Sarah Benken Foushee, CEO and Publisher of the KNOW Women, has announced the honorees of the 2025 Women to KNOW in Florida, an annual honor recognizing outstanding female leaders across the state of Florida. Honorees will be recognized at the Annual Gala, to be held January 16, 2026, at The ORLO, Tampa, Florida. The “Women to KNOW in Florida” initiative is a prestigious recognition program and hardcover coffee table publication that showcases the most influential, achieved, and honorable women across the state. Following a rigorous nomination and interview process, this program honors a select group of entrepreneurs, executives, creatives, and philanthropists who have not only grown their own dreams but have created boundless opportunities for the next generation of female leaders. These honorees exemplify what it means to be high-achieving and ambitious on the next level, serving as “power players” who continue to pour into their communities as they reach new professional heights. By celebrating these women at annual galas and through a global media network, the initiative fosters an elite community dedicated to collaboration, visibility, and the continued empowerment of women throughout Florida.

HONOREES:
Katisha Jallow, Tampa, K Luv Culture Talent Agency
Chanae Wood, Miami Weiss, Serota / ROM8
Adrianne Calvo, Miami, Chef Adrianne’s Vineyard Restaurant and Bar
Katie Bean, Orlando, Katie Bean Travels
Stephanie Paradiso, Tampa, Inspired Social Co.
Blima Ehrentreu, Miami, The Designers Group Inc
Valerie Steele, Tampa, Why Not Now Coaching and Events
Sherry Henry, Miami, HabCenter Boca Raton
Ronit Schwartz, Miami, Aryeh Strategic Partners
Hilary Dalton, Tampa, Dalton Dental
JaJuan Williams, Orlando, The Lady CPA
Hasina Echoles, Miami, Global Speech and Rehab Services
Theresa Mazzuco, Tampa, Your Business Blueprint
Robyn Mussler, Tampa, Connect-IT 360
Shavonne Johnson, Tampa, Truly Valued Inc
Lina Teixeira, Tampa, Clearwater City Council
Veena Abraham, Tampa, EQU Advisors
Dawn Graber, Tampa , Dawn Yoder Graber Consulting
Tashika Griffith, Tampa, St Petersburg College
Jennifer Lourie, Miami, Serhant
Evelyn Almodova, Tampa, UnidosNow
Leslie Harrell, Tampa, Truly Valued Inc
Sophia Allen, Miami, The Real Estate Professionals
Veronica Querales, Miami, Kohtler Elevator Industries Inc
Megan Howell, Tampa, Second Heart Homes
Norma Davis, Jacksonville, Love Alive Church/SIVAD Noel/llc
Kimberly Berfield, Tampa, Representative / Evara Health
Kristina Park, Fort Myers, Greater Naples Chamber
Jennifer Poirrier, Clearwater, City of Clearwater
Emily Zubizarreta, Miami, Miami Women Who Rock
Elisa Caro, Tampa, SmartChoice Communications
Ly Nguyen, Orlando, Eye Florida
Kameron Hodgens, Tampa,Impact In Action, LLC
Tracey Hagan, Miami, Tracey Hagen Photography
Avery Skipalis, Tampa, Avery Skipalis Group
Aleksandra Efimara, Miami, GOLFABELLA
Caely Looney, Orlando, Reinvented Inc
Brynn Fuentes, Tampa, Brynn Skincare Essentials
Phara McLachlan, Tampa, Nahteava, LLC.
Ann McNeill, Miami, MCO Construction and Services
Erika Williner, Tampa, Erika Williner Designs
Claudienne Hibbert-Smith, Miami, AWS Title Services, LLC
Bonnie Mott,, Tampa, Biz Development and Branding
Lauren Morgan, Jacksonville, Activated Law
Heather Hughes, Tampa, Optimum Health & Wellness
Caridad Murphy, Miami, Diaz-Murphy and Associates CES, LLC
Nicole Waters, Tampa , Amplify Women Tampa Bay
Lianna Fuente, Tampa, Black Orchid & Co
Heather Koester, Tampa, Invigorate Nexus Consulting Firm

The 2026 Women to KNOW in Florida Gala will bring together dynamic women leaders and business owners from Florida for an evening of networking and presentations. The celebration will shine the spotlight on honorees. For more information about the Award and to read about the winners, visit: https://theknowwomen.com/women-to-know-in-florida/

NEW MEDIA CONTENT:
KNOW Women LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theknowwomen
KNOW Women Instagram Account: https://instagram.com/theknowwomen

Melinda Jackson
Melinda Jackson Public Relations
melinda@melindajacksonpr.com

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LAS CRUCES, NM, UNITED STATES, January 16, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Surviving the early storms of her own life, Coventina Waterhawk is bringing hope and practical support to others navigating mental health challenges and addiction. From her first encounter with suicidal ideation at age seven to her journey through recovery and spiritual awakening, Coventina’s story is one of raw honesty, resilience, and resourcefulness. Today, she uses her experiences and natural talents to help others find light in their darkest moments, offering everything from accessible coping skills and boundary-setting advice to psychic readings and Reiki healing.

Coventina’s introduction to emotional pain came early. “I was writing poetry about how I felt, but I was also snipping the skin on my wrist. The physical pain distracted me from the emotional pain,” she recalls. By her early teens, she was drinking to escape. Family revelations about her adoption, combined with a childhood marked by trauma and questions of belonging, deepened her struggles. “I felt like the black sheep of the family. I always questioned authority, wanted to speak up, but everyone wanted me to stay quiet,” she remembers.

Despite seeking help, Coventina faced a system that failed to provide answers or a true understanding. “I never really got any help. And my parents blamed me for needing help that didn’t work,” she shares. Later, undiagnosed trauma and addiction led to years of searching for relief through substances—until her recovery began.

Coventina’s journey illustrates the tangled roots of dual diagnosis, a term she defines: “People who are diagnosed with mental and substance use disorders.” For her, addressing both mental health and addiction meant learning not just to survive, but to build a life with purpose.

Through her multi-award-winning, Kindle #1 bestselling book “Dually Diagnosed, Dually Blessed: From Struggle to Purpose,” Coventina offers real-life wisdom for individuals with dual diagnoses and their families. The book includes her own story and those of others who have found recovery, stability, and new ways of coping. “I wanted to share the coping skills that worked for the other authors and me. These are tools that anyone can try,” she explains.

A cornerstone of Coventina’s approach is her “Pick Me Up Jar,” a simple, creative exercise that anyone can try at home. She fills a jar with written affirmations, words of encouragement, and small action steps. “When you’re having a crisis or just feel down, you can pull out a note. Sometimes all it takes is one positive reminder to get through the moment,” she shares.

Coventina’s story is also about setting boundaries, especially with loved ones still struggling with addiction. “You have to love yourself first, even when it’s excruciatingly painful to step back,” she says, describing her relationship with her daughter. “It’s like putting the oxygen mask on yourself first. You can’t save someone who isn’t ready, but you can take care of ‘you’.”

Having reclaimed her life, Coventina now helps others as a certified Reiki practitioner and intuitive reader. She has been practicing Reiki since 2006 and reading Tarot since 2001. “Healing is subtle. Sometimes you don’t notice the pain is gone until it’s just gone. And when I do Tarot readings, the answers just come to me. Often, my clients tell me things start to make sense later,” she says. Her sessions blend gentle energy work with psychic insights, drawing from a gift that was evident even in childhood. As she humorously observes, “Looking back, I should have charged my friends their allowances for my services.”

Coventina’s talents as a medium have grown with her practice. She describes a time when, during a Reiki session, she delivered a message from a client’s grandfather to provide comfort and closure. “It’s just who I am. I help others with my gifts, so they can live their dreams, too.”

Her writing has also reached a wider audience. In addition to “Dually Diagnosed, Dually Blessed,” Coventina’s work appears in collaborative anthologies, such as “Energy-Frequency-Vibration: The Art of Healing Vol #2”, a best seller in Canada, published in 2023. Her first book, “The Freed Soul: From Domestic Violence to Freedom,” is a collection of poetry about surviving unfathomable domestic abuse, published in 2016.

Coventina currently partners with her local Suicide Prevention Task Force, co-hosting fundraising book signings to spread the message of hope to those who need it most. Her book also serves as a workbook for an IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program), where she teaches holistic coping methods to patients.

Above all, Coventina encourages others to keep reaching out for help, even when stigma and misunderstanding persist, and to speak up, even if your voice cracks. “Sometimes, one day at a time is too much. One breath at a time is manageable for anyone in crisis, and remember that “Happiness is being.”

For Coventina Waterhawk, the journey from struggle to purpose is an ongoing one. Gratitude, the guiding force for everyday life, and hope is the glue. One day, during meditation, Coventina had an epiphany: HOPE= Help Others Process Emotions, and realized it was what she had been doing since the age of ten. She invites others to walk with her on a journey of transformation, resilience, and hope, one step at a time.

Close Up Radio recently featured Coventina Waterhawk, healer and empowerment coach, in an interview with Jim Masters on Monday January 12th at 2pm EST

Listen to the Podcast
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/close-up-radio-spotlights-mental-health-and-addiction/id1785721253?i=1000745093370
https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-close-up-radio-242020413/episode/close-up-radio-spotlights-mental-health-317263179/
https://open.spotify.com/episode/522HjF6MZu75hO7ZHxrPas

For more information about Coventina Waterhawk, please visit https://www.coventinawaterhawk.com/

Lou Ceparano
Close Up Radio
+1 (631) 850-3314
email us here
Visit us on social media:
Facebook

Legal Disclaimer:

EIN Presswire provides this news content “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability
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article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.

TAMPA, FL, UNITED STATES, January 16, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — With surgical robotics advancing faster than ever and the boundaries between technology and medicine blurring in extraordinary ways, Dr. Sharona Ross, MD, FACS stands at the forefront of this medical revolution, blending surgical mastery with an unwavering commitment to patient care and progress. As the 2024 President of the Society of Robotic Surgery, the 2025 President of the Society of Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgeons (SLS), and current Chair of Telepresence for the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES), Dr. Ross is actively shaping the evolving future of surgery, focusing on minimally invasive, robotic, and digitally connected techniques for complex abdominal conditions.

Trained in every aspect of surgery (except for brain and orthopedic procedures), Dr. Ross has developed deep expertise in Foregut and Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) surgery. Her daily practice encompasses the entire “gut spectrum from the esophagus, stomach, and small bowel to the pancreas, biliary tree, adrenals, and abdominal sarcomas. “My specialty covers everything from benign and malignant diseases and disorders of the upper GI tract to pancreas and biliary system,” Dr. Ross explains. “These are areas where robotic and minimally invasive techniques can make a profound difference in patient outcomes.”

But what truly distinguishes Dr. Ross is her relentless pursuit of surgical advancement, not for technology’s sake, but for better patient recovery and survival. “I perform virtually all of my operations robotically,” she states. “Gone are the days of large incisions and extended hospital stays. With minimally invasive robotic surgery, we see faster recoveries, less pain, and fewer complications. In fact, I haven’t needed to perform an open operation in years thanks to the evolution of chemotherapy and surgical technology.”

Dr. Ross is uniquely positioned as an early adopter and innovator in single-port robotic surgery, having obtained an Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) from the FDA that enables her to convert complex Foregut and HPB operations to single-incision procedures. Supported by Intuitive Surgical, the company behind the da Vinci robot, Dr. Ross is at the cutting edge of adapting new robotic platforms for advanced abdominal surgeries. “We moved from open, to multi-incision, and now to single-port operations,” she explains. “This is where the field is heading, and our IDE allows us to demonstrate both safety and effectiveness, paving the way for larger studies and, ultimately, broader patient access.”

Her leadership extends far beyond her own operating room. Dr. Ross sits on the global advisory board of Intuitive Surgical, helping to guide industry development in ways that prioritize both innovation and patient safety. As robotic and digital surgery accelerate, she works closely with her colleagues to ensure that surgeons remain central in setting standards for care, data sharing, and ethical technology integration.

Her leadership extends far beyond her own operating room. Dr. Ross sits on the global advisory board of Intuitive Surgical, helping to guide industry development in ways that prioritize both innovation and patient safety. As robotic and digital surgery accelerate, she works closely with her colleagues to ensure that surgeons remain central in setting standards for care, data sharing, and ethical technology integration.

“While technology advances rapidly, we cannot lose sight of the human element,” she asserts. “We’re actively involved in writing consensus guidelines and participating in multidisciplinary meetings. The goal is to ensure that surgical data and new tools are used wisely and safely, and that patients always come first.” Through SAGES, where she chairs the new Telepresence Task Force, Dr. Ross is also helping formalize best practices for real-time remote collaboration, mentoring, and even tele-surgery, where surgical expertise can be shared across continents at the touch of a button.

Dr. Ross believes strongly that the future of surgery must be shaped by those who care for patients, not solely by technology companies. “If we as surgeons and clinicians don’t engage fully, the direction of innovation might be set by engineers who don’t always appreciate the nuances of patient care. We’re making sure that ethical considerations and quality are not afterthoughts, they’re built-in from the beginning.”

As digital surgery, artificial intelligence, and global surgical connectivity become more prominent, Dr. Ross continues to advocate for physician leadership, robust data standards, and responsible technology adoption. Her efforts to reduce surgical trauma, accelerate patient recovery, and improve survival in complex abdominal cancers are not only reshaping both patient lives but the broader field.

For Dr. Ross, the next few years will see even more integration of robotics, AI, and data-driven decision-making in the operating room, with new frontiers in telepresence and digital surgery opening access and expertise worldwide. “We’re at an exciting juncture,” she adds. “The only way to ensure the safest, most effective future for surgical patients is through direct clinician involvement, rigorous standards, and a clear focus on real-world outcomes.”

Stay tuned as Dr. Sharona Ross and her colleagues at the Society of Robotic Surgery and SAGES continue to lead the evolution of surgery, making 2026 a time to watch for every patient, provider, and technologist invested in the future of medicine.

About Dr. Sharona Ross, MD, FACS

Dr. Sharona Ross is a board-certified general surgeon specializing in Foregut and Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) robotic surgery. Based in Tampa, Florida, she has performed over a thousand of advanced robotic procedures and is recognized internationally for her contributions to minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Ross is the immediate past president of the Society of Robotic Surgery, the 2025 President of the Society of Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgeons (SLS), chair of the Telepresence Task Force at SAGES, an advisory board member for Intuitive Surgical, and founder of the Women in Surgery Career Symposium this coming February 6 and 7, 2026. She is dedicated to advancing surgical technology while prioritizing patient outcomes, safety, and ethical leadership in the field.

Close Up Radio recently featured Sharona Ross, MD, FACS, in an interview with Jim Masters on Monday January 12th at 9am Eastern

Listen to the Podcast
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/close-up-radio-welcomes-back-dedicated-surgeon-dr-sharona/id1785721253?i=1000745092273
https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-close-up-radio-242020413/episode/close-up-radio-welcomes-back-dedicated-317260579/
https://open.spotify.com/episode/2plfGsE20lIKUHAb47tntN

For more information about Sharona Ross, MD, FACS, please visit https://women-in-surgery.com/faculty/ and https://finance.yahoo.com/news/inner-circle-acknowledges-sharona-b-194600540.html

Lou Ceparano
Close Up Television & Radio
+ +1 631-850-3314
email us here
Visit us on social media:
Facebook

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TUCKER, GA, UNITED STATES, January 16, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — La Escalera, a family-owned food truck known for its authentic handmade corn tortillas and Guerrero-style birria, has been named a 2025 Best of Georgia Award winner. The recognition celebrates local businesses that exemplify excellence in their craft, and for La Escalera, it’s proof that tradition and hard work still resonate deeply with Georgia diners.

Founded by a family with roots in Guerrero, Mexico, La Escalera has built its reputation on authenticity. Every tortilla is handmade from scratch, and every recipe has been passed down through generations. Their signature Quesabirria tacos, rich salsas, and slow-simmered birria have become favorites across the community not just for the flavor, but for the sense of care that comes with every order. In a crowded food scene, their commitment to heritage cooking and consistency has made them a standout.

“We started La Escalera to share the flavors we grew up with, the ones that remind us of home,” says the owner. “To see people here in Georgia connect with that same joy is incredibly meaningful. This award isn’t just for us; it’s for everyone who’s supported our journey.”

As La Escalera celebrates this recognition, the team remains focused on what got them here: keeping family tradition alive and serving food that feels personal. The award marks an exciting milestone, but for La Escalera, it’s also a reminder of their mission: to honor their roots, serve their community, and keep bringing authentic Mexican flavor to every corner of Georgia.

For more information click here!

La Escalera
La Escalera
+1 678-296-4539
email us here

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ATLANTA, GA, UNITED STATES, January 16, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Endocrine Specialists of Georgia, led by Dr. Francisco Puentes, has been recognized as a 2025 Best of Georgia Award winner in the field of endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism. With over 30 years of experience and a commitment to precise, patient-focused care, the practice has earned a reputation for helping individuals navigate complex hormonal and metabolic conditions with clarity and confidence. This latest accolade highlights the practice’s consistent dedication to excellence and innovation in the healthcare community.

What sets Endocrine Specialists of Georgia apart is the combination of advanced medical expertise and a personal, human-centered approach. The team provides comprehensive care across a range of conditions, including thyroid disorders, diabetes management, osteoporosis, hormone deficiencies, and more. Patients benefit from thorough diagnostics like thyroid ultrasounds and biopsies, paired with treatment plans tailored to individual needs. Over the years, the practice has built a strong track record of not just treating conditions, but empowering patients with knowledge and support to manage their health effectively.

“Being recognized again by the Best of Georgia Awards reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire team,” said Dr. Francisco Puentes. “Our focus has always been on providing exceptional care while making complex endocrine issues understandable and manageable for our patients. This award motivates us to continue improving and expanding our services to meet the evolving needs of our community.”

The 2025 Best of Georgia Award adds to a string of honors that the practice has received since 2022, affirming its role as a leader in endocrine care. Looking ahead, Endocrine Specialists of Georgia aims to build on this recognition by continuing to refine patient care, expand educational outreach, and provide the highest level of expertise in endocrinology for years to come.

For more information click here!

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Prime 1 Studio announced “DOOM Slayer” “Imp Stalker” Statues from DOOM: The Dark Ages. Pre-orders began January 15, 2025 (JST), with release set for July 2027.

ASAKUSA, TAITO-KU, TOKYO, JAPAN, January 16, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Based on the latest installment in the long-running FPS series, “DOOM: The Dark Ages,” the DOOM Slayer and Imp Stalker have been produced as part of the Ultimate Premium Masterline lineup.

1. DOOM Slayer
This 1/4 scale statue depicts Doom Slayer in battle, equipped with the Super Shotgun and the Shield Saw. The armor is sculpted with spiked details, and a fabric cape is included. The custom base features demon remains. LED units are integrated throughout the statue, including the base.

Additional parts are included. By exchanging the head, arms, and the soldier’s head beneath his feet, different display variations can be created. The DX Bonus Version includes an additional unhelmeted head part.

Customers who purchase both this product and the “Imp Stalker Bonus Version” will receive a Patron Bonus set featuring a Flail and a damaged Imp Stalker head. For details on the Patron Bonus, please visit the product page.

Product Name:
Ultimate Premium Masterline DOOM: The Dark Ages DOOM Slayer DX Bonus Version
Retail Price USD: $1799
Edition Size: 400
Estimated Arrival: August 2027
Scale: 1/4
H:77cm W:65cm D:49cm
H:75cm W:70cm D:49cm (Horizontal Right Arm)
Weight: 18.8Kg
Materials: Polystone and other materials
Specifications/Additional Items:
・DOOM Slayer
– Two (2) Swappable Heads (Helmeted: Downward-Facing, Right-Facing)
– Two (2) Swappable Right Arms (Lowered, Horizontal)
– Four (4) Swappable Right Hands (Super Shotgun, Chainshot, Pulverizer, Cycler)
– Two (2) Swappable Left Arms (Shield Saw: Normal, Bloody)
– LED Illumination (Eyes Inside Helmet, Tether, Chainshot, Cycler)
– One (1) Swappable Head (Unhelmeted) [BONUS PART]
・DOOM: The Dark Ages-Themed Base with LED Illumination
– Two (2) Swappable Soldier Heads (Damaged, Undamaged)
LED Power Supply Method: TBD
* Please prepare batteries, USB cables, or other necessary items depending on the final power supply method.
Copyright:
© 2025 ZeniMax. ZeniMax, id Software, and DOOM are trademarks of the ZeniMax group of companies. All rights reserved.

2. Imp Stalker
This 1/4 scale statue depicts the Imp Stalker demon in a forward-charging pose, with arms spread wide to convey motion and aggression drawn from its in-game appearance. The body is primarily constructed from semi-translucent materials, with paintwork emphasizing organic textures and tonal variation.
For more details, visit our online store.

Details such as protruding spikes, defined musculature, and an aggressive facial expression are carefully sculpted. LED units are integrated into the Hell Surge projectiles on the head and both hands. An alternate head part depicting the moment of destruction is included, allowing for different display options.

The Bonus Version includes an additional pair of clawed hands with LED illumination.

Product Name:
Ultimate Premium Masterline DOOM: The Dark Ages Imp Stalker Bonus Version
Retail Price USD: $1459
Edition Size: 400
Arrival Date: August 2027
Scale: 1/4
H: 77cm W: 65cm D: 58cm
H: 75cm W: 64cm D: 58cm (Claws)
Weight: 18.3Kg
Materials: Polystone and other materials
Specifications/Additional Items:
・Imp Stalker
– Two (2) Swappable Heads (Damaged, Undamaged)
– One (1) Swappable Pair of Hands (Hell Surge)
– One (1) Swappable Pair of Hands (Claws)[BONUS PART]
– LED Illumination (Undamaged Head, Hell Surge, Claws)
・DOOM: The Dark Ages-Themed Base with LED Illumination
LED Power Supply Method: TBD
* Please prepare batteries, USB cables, or other necessary items depending on the final power supply method.
Copyright:
© 2025 ZeniMax. ZeniMax, id Software, and DOOM are trademarks of the ZeniMax group of companies. All rights reserved.

3. Patron Bonus
Customers who purchase both this product and the “DOOM Slayer DX Bonus Version” and ”Imp Stalker Bonus Version” will receive a Patron Bonus set featuring a Flail and a damaged Imp Stalker head. For details on the Patron Bonus, please visit the product page.

For more details, visit our online store.

Hiroya Kubota
Prime 1 Studio Co., Ltd.
info@prime1studio.co.jp
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Legal Disclaimer:

EIN Presswire provides this news content “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability
for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this
article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.