______________ VALLEY STREAM _____________
HERALD
September May Be For New Beginnings
Annual exhibit returns with art
Back-to-school celebrated
Page 3
Page 10
VOL. 37 NO. 36
SEPTEMBER 3 - 9, 2026
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Remembering Ryan Icart Former Valley Stream Central football player was compassionate, energetic To his mother, he was affectionately known as “Wawa,” t he f a m i ly sh a r e d on t he Ryan Icart, a 2026 graduate C e c er e F u l ler t on F u ner a l of Valley Stream Central High Home website. School who died suddenly on “I never met a young person Aug. 16, was remembered by who loved his mot her a nd his family and friends as a father more than Ryan,” Tom compassionate, Schiavo, Central’s funny and energetic football coach, said. young man whose “He had complete warmth and generobedience, devotion, osity touched everylove and respect for one around him. He his parents.” was 18 years old. Ic a r t spent his A standout lineearly childhood in man for Central’s Brooklyn, and from va rsit y footba l l a you n g a ge, h i s team, Icart was prefamily saw in him paring to begin an a n i nd ep e nd e nc e Ryan Icart exciting new chapand confidence that ter playing football would remain part at Monroe University in New of his character. His mother Rochelle, where he had earned remembered taking him to kina scholarship and planned to dergarten for the first time, study finance. expecting the hesitation or The family identified the tears of a child at that age. But cause of death as a blood clot he was ready, wa l ked into that began in his left foot. school, said goodbye and began Born on Sept. 25, 2007, to his day, she said. Sara Jean-Baptiste Icart and That con fidence was R ic a r do Ic a r t , h i s f a m i ly matched by the ability to conincluded siblings Eileen-Ama- nect naturally with people, dea Icart and Bill Meyer Guen- according to his family. Even ther Icart. CONTINUED ON PAGE 9
By JEFFREY BESSEN
jbessen@liherald.com
Courtesy Carrié Solages office
Ready, set, backpack to school To mark the beginning of a new school year, Unity in the Community, on Aug. 26, helped connect children with school supplies, activities and community resources before the start of the school year. The event, in Lakeview, brought together local churches, businesses and community groups. Organizers had collected more than 1,000 backpacks for students in kindergarten through high school, and gave out school supplies and 100 pairs of sneakers as well. Story, more photos, Page 10.
Tim Baker/Herald
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Recreation programs bring art to annual exhibit bers of the community following weeks of instruction and creative work. The exhibit is free and open to the public and will remain on display through Sept. 3. The Silver Threads painting classes are part of the village’s senior enrichment programming, while the children’s and adult programs give residents opportunities to develop artistic skills and participate in creative activities. The featured art programs are scheduled to return this fall. A jewelry-making workshop for children is also planned. Registration is available at the community center or through the village’s online recreation portal.
VALLEY STREAM HERALD — September 3, 2026
The Village of Valley Stream’s annual art exhibit opened Aug. 21 with a reception at the Valley Stream Community Center, bringing together artwork created through several village recreation programs. The exhibit, held in the Burgundy Room, features work from the village’s adult painting classes, Silver Threads senior citizen painting classes and children’s art program. The collection highlights participants across generations and showcases ar twork produced through the village’s instructional art programs. Local artist Matt Khan teaches the featured classes. The exhibit provides students with an opportunity to display their work for family, friends and mem-
— Angelina Zingariello
Eric Donaldson/Herald photos
Aishwarya Nair’s artwork was among the pieces on display at the Village of Valley Stream’s annual art exhibit, which opened Aug. 21.
Matthew Khan, instructor of the art program, proudly displayed his own works. Jim Zabatta showed off his creative side alongside artists of all ages.
Andrea Mullin added a splash of creativity to the Village of Valley Stream’s annual art exhibit.
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Nitesh Sokhoo, Navya Sookhoo, and Claire Dibenedetto were some of the artists whose work was featured, showcasing creations from the village’s recreation and instructional art programs.
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Saving Half on the Nursing Home Doorstep What do you do when a client comes in to see you and says that his mother is going into a nursing home and she has $300,000 in assets. In fact, mom scrimped and saved all of her life to have this nest egg and now she desperately wants to see her children get an inheritance. Although you may protect all of your assets by planning five years ahead of time with a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust, all is not lost if nothing has been done and the client finds herself on the nursing home doorstep. There is a solution for single clients who do not have the “spousal refusal” option. The advanced elder law technique, used to protect assets at the last minute, is called the “gift and loan” strategy. Here’s how it works. Let’s assume, for the purposes of our example, that the nursing home costs $15,000 a month. When mom goes into the nursing home, we gift one-half of the nest egg, in this case one-half of $300,000, or $150,000, to her children. Then we lend the other $150,000 to the children and they execute a promissory note agreeing to repay the $150,000 in ten monthly payments of $15,000 per month, together with a modest amount of interest. Now we
apply for Medicaid benefits. Medicaid will impose a penalty period (i.e., they will refuse to pay) for 10 months on the grounds that the gift of $150,000 could have been used to pay for mom’s care for 10 months. Medicaid ignores the loan since it was not a gift. It is going to be paid back, with interest, according to the terms of the promissory note. What happens is that the ten loan repayment installments will be used to pay for mom’s nursing home care during the penalty period. Just when the loan repayments are finished, the penalty period expires and Medicaid begins to pick up the tab. Lo and behold, the children get to keep the $150,000 gift and mom has saved some of the inheritance for her children. This technique also illustrates why you should have an elder law lawyer prepare your power of attorney. Let’s say mom no longer has the legal capacity to make the needed gifts. The “elder law” power of attorney allows for gifts in any amount to be made on her behalf by her agent. If you find yourself with the basic power of attorney that general lawyers use, gifts are usually limited to no more than $5,000.00 per year. Under Medicaid, it’s move it or lose it.
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Port Authority police officer Walwyn Stuart of Valley Stream saved hundreds of passengers from the World Trade Center PATH train station on Sept. 11, 2001. Twenty-five years later, he is being honored at a new memorial at Ground Zero. The eight-foot tall monument lists Stuart and 83 other Port Authority employees who died during the 9/11 attacks, including 37 Port Authority police officers, and the six people who died during the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. It’s outside 4 World Trade Center, the headquarters of the Port Authority. The “Port Authority Employee Memorial” is in Liberty Park. It is a facsimile recreation of the Twin Towers with a granite plaque at the bottom, listing the names. “This memorial is a fitting tribute and will provide loved ones and Port Authority colleagues a space of remembrance and reflection,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a news release. According to Port Authority Police records, Stuart was stationed at the PATH train station when the attack happened. He helped load hundreds of people onto the first train back to New Jersey. Afterwards, he evacuated the station and ran to the North Tower to help rescue people. He was 28 years old. He left behind his wife, Thelma, and ______________
infant daughter Amanda, who had been building a life together in Valley Stream. He passed away before Amanda celebrated her first birthday. Thelma also worked downtown at the time and watched the North Tower fall from her office building on William Street. “As the anniversary years tick up, the number of our colleagues who survived both the 1993 and 2001 attacks are starting to dwindle, so we must work harder to keep those memories of our Port Authority family from fading with time,” Port Authority Executive Director Kathryn Garcia said in the release. Stuart was previously part of the New York Police Department before taking the job at Port Authority, under the impression that it would be safer. He took the job after the birth of his daughter. The WTC Memorial Fund built the monument with donations generated by the organization’s annual golf outing in New Jersey. This was an important endeavor for Paul Iannacone, president of the group. ““For those of us who worked at the World Trade Center and throughout the authority, it was more than a workplace — it was our home,” Iannacone said in the release. — Anthony Favilla
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MAIN PHONE: (516) 569-4000 ■ WEB SITE: www.liherald.com/valleystream ■ E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: vseditor@liherald.com ■ EDITORIAl DEPARTMENT: Ext. 282 E-mail: vseditor@liherald.com ■ SUBSCRIPTIONS: Press ”7” E-mail: subscriptions@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4942 ■ ClASSIFIED ADVERTISING: Ext. 286 E-mail: ereynolds@liherald.com Fax: (516) 622-7460 ■ DISPlAY ADVERTISING: Ext. 249 E-mail: rglickman@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4643 ■ PUBlIC NOTICES: Ext. 232 E-mail: legalnotices@liherald.com The Valley Stream Herald USPS 005868, is published every Thursday by Richner Communications, Inc., 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Periodicals postage paid at Garden City, NY 11530 and additional mailing offices. Postmaster send address changes to Valley Stream Herald, 2 Endo Blvd. Garden City, NY 11530. Newsstand Price: $1. Annual Subscription Rates, $52 per year auto-pay or $65 one-time payment within Nassau County or $76 outside of Nassau County. Copyright © 2026 Richner Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.
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VALLEY STREAM HERALD — September 3, 2026
THINGS TO KNOW NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH
September is the time to make a plan By Chris Colucci ccolucci@liherald.com
In 2004, the Federal Emergency Management Agency launched National Preparedness Month, designating each September as a time to prepare for natural or human-made disasters and emergencies. By taking preventive steps that range from strategic planning to creating practical “go-bags,” citizens can give themselves an advantage during worst-case scenarios.
n Proper planning prevents poor performance “The five P’s” are a memorable way to apply forethought and prudent anticipation. Whether it’s the annual hurricane season, a midsummer heatwave, or an active shooter report at a shopping mall, having a plan to address a given set of circumstances can increase the likelihood of safely enduring an emergency. Effective planning could include anything from consciously noting the emergency exits in a store to developing an escape plan and “rally point” for family members in the event of a house fire. Building a “go-bag” with essentials is another common step in emergency preparedness — keeping the bag regularly restocked and being familiar with its inventory is a critical step. Special allowances should be made for pets, including plans for secure travel with easily accessible cat carriers or dog leashes.
n Get alerts to stay informed before and during Long Beach residents are encouraged to visit longbeachny.gov/ lbready to familiarize themselves with various emergency weather procedures — hurricanes, snowstorms, flooding and more — and to sign up for the community notification system. The notifications are delivered through a free service which can send urgent alerts to participants by phone, text or email. Staying informed directly from official sources — such as FEMA, the National Weather Service and PSEG Long Island — can also help to ensure fast and accurate updates. Receiving advanced alerts is only the first step. Implementing a well-developed strategy, and adjusting the plan in response to changing circumstances, are necessary follow-ups. The official social media accounts of the Long Beach Police Department and Long Beach Fire Department can also deliver reliable emergency news.
If city, state, or federal officials declare an emergency evacuation, the safest and most responsible decision for residents is to comply as soon as possible. Staging areas will be established with public transportation operating from shelters at West School on Maryland Avenue, East School on Neptune Boulevard and City Hall on West Chester Street.By car, those in the West End should travel across the Atlantic Beach Bridge to the Nassau Expressway before proceeding to safety. Those in central Long Beach are advised to take Long Beach Boulevard to any point north of Sunrise Highway. For residents of eastern Long Beach, Lido Beach and Point Lookout, guidelines are to take Loop Parkway to a safe location north of Sunrise Highway.
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September 3, 2026 — VALLEY STREAM HERALD
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BRINGING LOCAL SPORTS HOME EVERY WEEK
HERALD SPORTS Hofstra wins new coach Roche’s debut By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com
The Hofstra men’s soccer team kicked off a new era Aug. 20 with a familiar winning feeling. In the program’s first game under first-year head coach Stephen Roche following the retirement of the legendary Richard Nuttall, the then 20th-ranked Pride pulled out a 2-1 win at Bucknell on a goal from midfielder Sean Keane with 9:51 remaining. Nuttall recorded 364 wins in 38 years leading the sidelines while elevating Hofstra men’s soccer to a national level Roche is looking to continue to raise. “It’s an incredible honor to be chosen to not only take over Hofstra but to replace Richie who’s been my boss and my friend for so many years,” said Roche, an Ireland native who spent the last 10 seasons as an assistant under Nuttall. The momentum from the season opener carried over three days later when the Pride (2-0-1) knocked off American at home on Aug. 23 with goals from junior forward Bastian Carlman and Keane. The 2-0 start moved Hofstra to 13th in the national rankings and they stayed unbeaten after a 1-1 draw at Stony Brook in the CAA opener last Saturday. Roche was an instrumental part of Hofstra’s recent success that included four straight Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) titles and five straight NCAA Tournament appearances. The Pride went 14-5-1 in Nuttall’s final season and reached the third round of the NCAA Tournament for the third time in five years with a 3-2 upset win at number-one ranked Vermont, the defending national champions. “Going back to 2021 when we won the CAAs and got to the Sweet 16 the first time from that point onwards our success has allowed us to recruit great players,” Roche said. “We believe we have really good players and we then have to make sure they’re good people who buy into the Hofstra style of soccer.” The first year since 1988 of someone other than Nuttall spearheading Hofstra men’s soccer features a largely new team with just six returners who saw game action last year. The backline is anchored by fifth-year defender Pietro Santi, an Italy native who garnered CAA Preseason Player of the Year honors. Santi was part of a defensive unit last season that surrendered less than one goal per game and recorded seven shutouts. “He’s the general on the field, he’s the coach on the field and he keeps our backline incredibly organized,” Roche said of Santi. “A lot of the work he does goes unnoticed but at the end of the game when we’ve limited the opponent to very few chances a lot of that is to do with him and his organization.” Roche has also been pleased with other members of the defense so far this season including Anthony Grodzki and Joel Bona, a transfer from the University of Rhode Island, along with freshman Ben Schulz at left back. Milo Risenhoover, a fifth-year goalkeeper who arrived at Hofstra from University of the Pacific, is also shining on the defensive end early in the season. The Portland, Ore.. native garnered CAA Defensive Player of the Week honors after recording seven saves in Hofstra’s first two matches including four stops in the Bucknell victory. The offense has been largely carried early on by Keane, a 6-foot-5 graduate transfer from Auburn Montgomery University in Alabama, and Bastian Carlman, who has netted three goals. Roche is looking for a collective scoring effort this season that also includes
Photos courtesy Hofstra Athletics Communications
Jack Benham, right, and the Pride opened the campaign in winning fashion topping Bucknell, 2-1. many other potential offensive weapons including Lewis Matton, David Citron, Marc Perkuhn, Lewis Johnson and Schulz. Hofstra was picked to place first in the CAA North Division, which also includes Stony Brook, Monmouth, Drexel and Northeastern. The Pride’s CAA home opener is scheduled for this Saturday against Drexel at 7 p.m. Roche has pieced together a challenging non-conference schedule to position Hofstra for a possible at-large NCAA Tournament which the Pride obtained last year after falling to Stony Brook in the CAA semifinals. Hofstra hosts 7th-ranked Vermont in a rematch of last year’s NCAA Tournament thriller on Sept. 15 at 7 p.m. and Ivy League power Princeton on Oct. 6 at 7 p.m. “We got unlucky in the semifinals last year but because we had a tough schedule and our national ranking was high we still got into the tournament,” Roche said. “We’ve got a long way to go with a lot of really difficult games coming up, but with the difficulty of the schedule we have if we get 11 or 12 wins you would imagine we would be in that position again.”
Pietro Santi, right, anchors Hofstra’s defense.
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VALLEY STREAM HERALD — September 3, 2026
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Advocates call for county to cut ties with ICE New state law, which Blakeman calls ‘completely misguided,’ orders end to cooperation agreements By HAILEY FULMER hfulmer@liherald.com
With a new state law taking effect that ends local immigration enforcement agreements, Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages and immigrant advocates called on Nassau County last week to end its cooperation agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and comply with the law. An Aug. 25 news conference outside Nassau County Police Department headquarters, in Mineola, included members of Make the Road Action, the New York for All Coalition and the Long Island Immigrant Justice Alliance. Speakers mad the point that the new law is meant to prevent law enforcement agencies from using local resources for federal immigration enforcement. Solages said the law comes as immigrant communities face uncertainty about their status and concerns about immigration enforcement. “It’s a tumultuous time right now in our community,” she said. Fears about immigration enforcement, Solages said, can undermine public safety when residents avoid police or emergency services. “There are victims of crimes who are afraid to come forward,” she said. “There are people who are having emergency situations who are afraid to call police or ambulance because they might get into deportation proceedings.” “We need to make sure that we’re building trust with communities,” she said. Local police should continue their public safety work, Solages said, without using local resources for federal immigration enforcement. “We want to make sure that our public safety continues, our public safety officers and law enforcement keeps doing their work,”
Hailey Fulmer/Herald
Robert Agyemang, the New York Immigration Coalition’s vice president of advocacy, spoke outside Nassau County Police Department headquarters in Mineola on Aug. 25, calling for an end to the county’s cooperation with ICE. she said, but not using our local resources to do federal immigration.” Kiana Bierra-Anderson, Long Island director of Make the Road New York, criticized County Executive Bruce Blakeman for using local resources to support federal immigration enforcement. “Nassau County workers are losing their jobs, children are losing their parents and small businesses are reporting losing revenues,” Bierra-Anderson said. Cheryl Keshner, a community advocate for Long Island’s Empire Justice Center, said that immigration enforcement had spread fear among immigrant resi-
dents, and could deter people from reporting crimes or seeking emergency help. Keshner raised the case of Santos Banegas Reyes, an immigrant who died after being detained by immigration authorities. She called for answers about his death, and supporters at the news conference chanted, “Justice for Santos.” The criticism came one day before Blakeman said that Nassau County would comply with the state law and end its cooperation agreement with ICE. At a news conference Wednesday in Mineola, Blakeman called the state law “completely misguided” and said it would make Nassau County less safe. “I am a law-and-order county executive,” he said. “I believe in the rule of law, even when it’s a bad law, and this is a very, very bad and dangerous law.” Blakeman added that the Nassau County attorney had notified ICE and sent termination notices to the agency. He said the county would continue working with ICE where permitted by law. “Whatever we are allowed to do within the confines of the law, we will do,” Blakeman said. Bryan Flanagan, ICE’s assistant field office director, who appeared with Blakeman, said that ending the agreement removed what he called a public safety tool. “New Yorkers deserve a clear understanding of what ended yesterday,” Flanagan said. “This decision has removed a proven public safety tool.” He said that ICE would continue its federal immigration enforcement work without the agreement. Blakeman defended the county’s previous cooperation with ICE, saying that the agreement allowed local law enforcement to work with federal authorities in cases involving people accused of crimes.
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Icart leaves lasting legacy at VSC High School as a youngster, Icart became a favorite among the cafeteria workers at school. It was an early sign of a quality that would follow him throughout his life: Ryan was a people person. “When you were a part of Ryan’s world, you were not alone,” Jessie Zwicker, Central’s dean of students, posted on the Long Island Football History Facebook group page. “A solid young man who was full of integrity, grit, and love of life. This hits hard.” Icart and his family moved to Long Island around the time he was in fourth grade, where he made lasting friendships and discovered interests that would help shape his future. He attended Shaw Elementary School and Memorial Junior High School, before graduating from Central High School with a Regents diploma, fulfilling a promise he had made to his mother. It was a commitment he took seriously and an accomplishment of which he was proud. Since seventh grade, football became an important part of Icart’s life, his family recalled. He loved the competition, discipline, teamwork and friendships that are part of playing and being part of a team. The number 79 that he wore on his jersey became closely associated with his time on the field and remained one of his favorites. “Eagle football means to me it’s a family; it’s a brotherhood, it’s something that’s going to last you for years to come,” Icart said in a video on the 2025 Central team. “That’s your family. It doesn’t matter who’s in it. Doesn’t matter race, that’s your family for life. And you play till your heart stops.” His dedication on the football field earned the 6-foot-3, 330-pound lineman a football scholarship to
Courtesy Tom Schiavo
Ryan Icart, second from right, with Alyssa Picillo, left, and Gabby Rivera, along with Tom Schiavo, football coach at Valley Stream Central High School. Monroe University, where he planned on continuing to play the sport he loved. His family said that people would remember him as compassionate, respectful, loving and helpful, adding that he had a good heart and cared deeply about others. A peacemaker by nature, Icart preferred bringing people together rather than seeing them divided. He was creative, full of personality and able to make connections with people from all walks of life, according to his family. Respect was among the qualities that defined Icart,
especially holding a deep love and respect for his father, Ricardo. Even during moments of disagreement or disappointment, his family said, he remained respectful and rarely answered back. That same respect extended to his teachers and coaches. Ryan developed strong relationships with the adults who taught, guided and encouraged him, and they came to know him not only for his athletic ability and potential, but also for the way he treated people. Family members said Icart was funny and could be counted on to arrive with a joke, a smile or something that would make those around him laugh. His mother remembered him as someone who was almost always in a good mood, bringing lightness and joy that could be felt by others. He loved family barbecues, gatherings and a good party, his family recalled. Icart was said to especially be fond of Haitian music and Konpa, and serving as a DJ, setting the mood and making sure energy and laughter filled the room. He loved the music of French Haitian singer Joé Dwèt Filé, family members said. “To those who knew him, he will always be remembered as Wawa, No. 79, ‘Mr. Shaketheroom,’ a devoted son and brother, a loyal friend and a young man who knew how to bring joy into a room,” the family wrote. “Ryan was as pure as innocent and kind and genuine and loyal and understanding and empathetic and inclusive of a person, I’ve ever met, regardless of age,” Schiavo said. “Ryan had no time for bad words. He was all about the good.” A funeral service was held at the Queen of the Most Holy Rosary in Roosevelt on Aug. 29. Icart was interred at Pinelawn Memorial Park in Farmingdale. To plant a tree in his memory, go to Tree.TributeStore.com.
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VALLEY STREAM HERALD — September 3, 2026
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
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September 3, 2026 — VALLEY STREAM HERALD
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Back-to-school celebration unites community “Unity in the Community,” a back-toschool celebration organized to connect children with school supplies, activities and community resources before the start of the school year was held in Lakeview on Aug. 26. Presented by Believe at Bellaire and Go Party on Demand, the event brought together local churches, businesses and community organizations. Organizers had collected more than 1,000 backpacks for students in kindergarten through 12th grade and planned to distribute school supplies and 100 pairs of sneakers. Nassau County Legislator Carrié Solages, who represents Valley Stream, joined Believe at Bellaire and Go Party on Demand in welcoming the community to the event. “For families across Nassau County, back-to-school season is an incredibly momentous occasion, but it can be a source of strain for family budgets, especially at a time of economic uncer-
tainty and rising costs,” Solages said. “That is why the work that is being done by Believe at Bellaire and Go Party on Demand, and all of their sponsors is so incredibly important.” The six-hour celebration also featured activities for children, including bounce houses, face painting, arts and crafts, sports activities and live entertainment - including a circus. Free haircuts and braiding were also planned as part of the event. O r g a n i z e r s i nv i t e d l o c a l f i r s t responders to participate, including the Nassau County Police Department’s 5th Precinct and the Lakeview Fire Department. Families could also connect with organizations offering infor mation about health insurance, domestic violence services, health screenings and other community resources. — Alyssa R. Griffin
Tim Baker/Herald photos
Carla Lassic, 10, left, Lataya Carter, president of Believe at Bellaire, Latoya Benjamin and London Lassic had a blast at the back to school giveaway block party.
Rob Romeo, Zabo, Alexander Spitfire and Janae from the Zabo Circus.
Rob Romeo spun his hat during the circus show.
Kahlei Glover, 3, from Lakeview, having a blast at “Unity in the Community.”
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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 6:00-9:00PM The Heritage Club at Bethpage 99 Quaker Meeting House Road Farmingdale, New York
20 26
For more information or to sponsor this event, contact Amy Amato Executive Director, Corporate Relations and Events aamato@liherald.com
MEET THE 2026 AWARD WINNERS *
EMCEE
KRISTIN THORNE Investigative Reporter Law&Crime Network
EXCELLENCE IN ORTHODONTICS
JOHN L. GOMES, MD
Co-Owner Avenue Orthodontics
MARINA MILGROM, DDS
ELENI MICHAILIDIS, DDS, MS, MPH
BEHAVIORAL & MENTAL HEALTH CHRISTINA DIBERNARDO
Founder Expressive Connections Mental Health Counseling
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EXCELLENCE IN SPECIAL NEEDS THERAPEUTIC PROGRAMS & INNOVATION LEE D. STOCKNER
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MARK SOBERMAN
LIVEONNY TEAM
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VALLEY STREAM HERALD — September 3, 2026
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INNOVATION IN TECHNOLOGY HELEN HSIEH, MD, FACOG Founder, Medical Director Vibrance 360
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STEPPING OUT
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Courtesy iBulb
Seasonal flowers bring color and character to your home as we transition to fall.
Fresh from the garden
“Just another band from East L.A,” is the legendary band’s motto. Since 1973, Los Lobos has been putting their own spin on Mexican folk music to embrace rock, punk, country, soul, R&B, and more. The band broke through with its Grammywinning 1983 recording “Anselma” and 1984’s “How Will the Wolf Survive?,” but its biggest commercial success came with its 1987 cover of Ritchie Valens’ “La Bamba,” which topped charts in the U.S. and U.K. Over five decades, the band has built a devoted international following with its adventurous recordings and acclaimed live performances.. But perhaps its most lasting impact will be how well its music embodies the idea of America as a cultural melting pot. The reseult is a new sound that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
Friday, Sept. 4, 7 p.m. Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, Eisenhower Park, East Meadow. Contact nassaucountyny. gov for information.
Ease into the new season in color By Karen Bloom
F
all may be knocking on the door, but there’s no need to put away the flowers just yet. As the seasons shift, summer’s vibrant blooms can continue to brighten patios, porches, balconies and interiors, offering an easy way to savor the lingering days of warm weather. Whether enjoyed beside a favorite book and a cold drink or gathered into a colorful centerpiece, fresh flowers can make even an ordinary afternoon feel like a celebration. There are endless ways to bring that seasonal beauty to your surroundings. In fact, this in-between time of year can be one of the best times to enjoy summer’s bounty when the garden is still generous with color but the first hints of autumn are beginning to appear. The key is to have fun with it. Mix colors, textures, greenery and branches, experiment with different containers and let the flowers reflect the season — and your own personality. With a little creativity, you can keep summer’s cheerful spirit around a while longer while gently welcoming the cozy days of fall.
Let summer linger
Late-summer gardens are still bursting with possibilities. Dahlias, gladioli and lilies come in an astonishing range of colors, shapes and sizes — and they make stunning arrangements. Rather than reaching for a ready-made bouquet, gather a mix of loose flowers, foliage and branches and create your own. Arrange them in a favorite vase or container, then display the finished bouquet indoors or outside for an instant dose of color.
Make a statement
Let your floral arrangements reflect your personal style. Choose a sturdy vase or planter for outdoor displays, or scatter several smaller vessels across a table for a more playful look. To help cut flowers stay fresh, trim the stems diagonally before placing them in water and keep arrangements in a
shady spot. Change the water regularly and, during lingering warm spells, check them daily. Outdoors, a few rocks or some sand in the bottom of a container can help keep it steady when the breeze picks up. For an inviting finishing touch, surround your arrangement with candles, lanterns or other seasonal accents. A simple floral display can turn a patio table into a cozy gathering spot for those last leisurely days outdoors. Let nature have its moment Summer-flowering bulbs can keep the garden colorful for weeks, while also attracting pollinators and supporting biodiversity. Remove spent blooms to encourage continued flowering, and remember that some bulbs, including dahlias and gladioli, can be lifted after flowering and stored in a frost-free place to replant next year. And there’s a whole world of unusual bulbs to consider for future gardens, including calla lilies, pineapple lilies, freesias and Blazing Star. Planning ahead now can help ensure another spectacular display when warm weather returns.
A lily for all seasons
If lilies are already growing in your garden, you have an especially versatile bloom at your fingertips. Their elegant flowers range from pristine white and creamy yellow to rich reds and purples — making them equally at home on a terrace, balcony or dining table. Potted lilies can also transition easily between outdoor and indoor spaces. A bouquet of lilies makes a beautiful statement on its own, but they also pair effortlessly with other seasonal flowers. Combine them with dahlias and gladioli in late summer, or bring them into fall with branches and foliage for an arrangement with a more autumnal feel. With their variety of colors, forms and fragrances, lilies offer endless opportunities to refresh a floral display as the seasons change.
Blooms for the soul
Flowers do more than brighten a room — they can brighten a mood, too. There’s something inherently soothing about selecting blooms, arranging them in a vase and taking the time to appreciate their color, texture and fragrance. Even the simple ritual of creating a bouquet can provide a welcome moment of calm. So before summer slips away completely, gather a few favorite blooms and bring them to the table. After all, there’s no better way to ease into fall than with a little beauty still in bloom.
Australian Pink Floyd Show The Australian Pink Floyd Show’s The Happiest Days Of Our Lives – Greatest Hits 26 Tour is a collection of greatest hits that resonate deeply with Pink Floyd fans everywhere. This critically acclaimed tribute has been astonishing audiences worldwide for nearly 40 years. Striving to reproduce the Pink Floyd experience and bring the music to new audiences, the show features a new stage set and video animation, cutting-edge lighting, precision lasers, massive inflatables, and impeccable live sound, TAPFS promises to offer an unforgettable experience for both long-time fans and newcomers.
Wednesday, Sept. 9, 8 p.m. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington.
VALLEY STREAM HERALD — September 3, 2026
Los Lobos
September 3, 2026 — VALLEY STREAM HERALD
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Your Neighborhood SEP
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Rock out
CALENDAR ticket includes a paperback copy of her memoir.
Eisenhower Park’s summer concert series welcomes The Lords of 52nd Street, the legendary New York band known for backing up Billy Joel and classic hits.
• Where: Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre • Time: 7 p.m. • Contact: madisontheatreny. org or (516) 323-4444
• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow • Time: 7 p.m. • Contact: nassaucountyny.gov or (516) 572-0200
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Vibes in the park
Tunes by the pool
The concert series welcomes vocalist Penny Lane. Limited seating.
• Where: Arthur J. Hendrickson Pool (behind the pool) • Time: 8 p.m. • Contact: (516) 821-3786
Grace Church Thrift Shop
Check out the great finds at Grace Church Thrift Shop, open every Saturday. Find clothing for all with a special sale on summer clothing. Also browse among collectibles, jewelry, art, electronics, housewares, beautiful sets of china and crystal, CD,s and DVD’s and many more items. Special sale on Precious Moments figures. Enjoy shopping where you save more and waste less! • Where: 21 S. Franklin Ave., Valley Stream • Time: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. • Contact: (516) 825-1182
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The Town of Hempstead welcomes all to Town Park Point Lookout for the annual end of summer festivities. Mike DelGuidice performs, followed by drone show and fireworks. With barbecue cook-off, Kids Zone, food trucks, beer garden, vendors and more. • Where: Town Park Point Lookout, 1300 Lido Blvd., Point Lookout • Time: Gates open 3 p.m. • Contact: townofhempsteadevents.com
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‘The Rocketman Show’
The Village of Valley Stream hosts its annual 9/11 Memorial Service.
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Honoring 25 Years of Resilience 5K Run/Walk
Remember when rock was young? You will after this enthralling show, on the Paramount stage. Crash land into your seat with The Rocket Man Show, starring Scotsman Rus Anderson — Elton John’s official stunt and body double for various “Farewell Yellow Brick Road” world tour projects. Hand picked by Elton and David Furnish for the role, it was Rus’ own live Broadway-esque production “The Rocket Man Show” that got him noticed. Witness the magic and live persona of a 1970’s Elton, recreated like no other. Rus storms around the stage with a fun-loving sense of flamboyance; part diva, part soccer player, killer vocalist, fierce piano player, all rock and roller. This is a detailed re-creation of Elton concert’s • Where: The Paramount, that’s not to be missed. Anderson’s painstaking attention to detail includes 370 New York Ave., Huntington wearing gorgeous, colorful and spectacular costumes, including Elton’s iconic • Time: 8 p.m. boots, glasses and jumpsuits from 1973, as well as a sparkly Swarovski • Contact: ticketmaster.com or tuxedo from 1984. paramountny.com
• Where: Valley Stream Central High School, 135 Fletcher Ave., Valley Stream • Time: 9 a.m. (Rain or Shine) • Contact: Register at Events. EliteFeats.com/26yearsofresilience
Storybook Stroll
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Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for a Storybook Stroll. Little listeners are invited to participate in a guided stroll through the Gardens, with a reading of “Mossy” by Jan Brett. The new and improved stroll route starts out at the map stand. Along the way, discover nature’s wonders, in the formal gardens. The tour ends at the Thatched Cottage with a story and hands-on craft for each child to take home. • Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury • Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m. • Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
Rock on Endless Summer Celebration
Commemorating 25 years
• Where: Valley Stream 9/11 Monument, Arthur J. Hendrickson Park, 123 W. Merrick Road. • Time: 6 p.m.
The village’s concert series continues with NXLVL Band, a reggae band.
• Where: Arlington Park, West Merrick Road. • Time: 7 p.m. • Contact: (516) 825-4200
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Eisenhower Park’s summer concert series concludes with Rolling Stones tribute band Streetfighter and The Who tribute band Who’s Next. • Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow • Time: 7 p.m. • Contact: nassaucountyny.gov or (516) 572-0200
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Amazing Animal Encounter
Join Long Island Children’s Museum’s
animal educator in the Hive Studio in the Feasts for Beasts Gallery to learn what goes into the care of the museum’s “residents.” Meet some of our real-life animals up close. • Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City • Time: 1:30-2 p.m. • Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
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CHSD BOE meets
Valley Stream Central High School District Board of Education holds its monthly business meeting. • Where: Memorial Junior High School, Cafeteria B, 320 Fletcher Ave., Valley Stream • Time: 8 p.m. • Contact: vschsd.org
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In concert
The village’s concert series continues with the Control C Band, an authentic R&B band.
• Where: Village Band Shell, 60 Verona Place • Time: 8 p.m. • Contact: (516) 825-4200
Tea and Tour
Old Westbury Gardens welcomes visitors to enjoy a delightful afternoon tea at Orchard Hill, featuring an elegant spread of tea sandwiches, scones, and desserts, perfectly paired with a selection of fine teas. After your meal, enjoy a seasonal garden tour led by one of our knowledgeable volunteer docents. $65 • Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury • Time: 1-3 p.m.; also Sept. 10 and Sept. 17 • Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
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An evening with Kelly Bishop
The Madison Theatre and Theodore’s Books will presents an evening with award-winning actress Kelly Bishop. Best known for her role as Emily Gilmore on the Emmy Award-winning series “Gilmore Girls,” Bishop discusses her memoir, “The Third Gilmore Girl,” and reflect on her sixdecade career in entertainment, including her Tony Award-winning performance in the original Broadway production of “A Chorus Line” and roles in “Dirty Dancing” and other acclaimed projects. Each
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welcome.
Join in the annual 5K run and walk.
Village Trustees meet The Village of Valley Stream holds its monthly board meeting. All are
• Where: Village Board Room, 123 South Central Ave. • Time: 7 p.m.
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Community Fest
Celebrate the community with family fun at this year’s edition of Community Fest. With entertainment, vendors, food trucks, Kids Zone, and more. • Where: Arthur J. Hendrickson Pool Parking Lot, 123 W. Merrick Road • Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Having an event? Items on the Calendar page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to kbloom@ liherald.com.
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VALLEY STREAM HERALD — September 3, 2026
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Public Notices Two-story house fire seriously FIRE WATCH
September 3, 2026 — VALLEY STREAM HERALD
LVAL1 0903
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Structured Asset Investment Loan Trust, Mortgage PassThrough Certificates, Series 2005-3, Plaintiff AGAINST Bevelyn Barkley; Keith Barkley; et al., Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered April 24, 2026 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 17, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 8 Princeton Street, Valley Stream, NY 11580. 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 Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37 Block 409 Lot 305. Approximate amount of judgment $676,096.35 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 604238/2023. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” Ronald J. Ferraro, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792 Dated: June 30, 2026 For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2831 161712 LEGAL NOTICE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST, -againstSTEVEN BROWN, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS
HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on May 22, 2026, wherein U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST is the Plaintiff and STEVEN BROWN, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on September 15, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 63 CLARENDON DRIVE, VALLEY STREAM, NY 11580; and the following tax map identification: 37-301-217A & 217B. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING PARTLY IN THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF VALLEY STREAM AND PARTLY NEAR VALLEY STREAM, IN THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 606375/2024. Brian J. Davis, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 161746 To Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU FREEDOM MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Plaintiff AGAINST MARVALYN MCKENZIE, DASHAWN
DEROSIN, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered July 31, 2024, and Decision & Order on Motion duly entered June 23, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 15, 2026 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 4 Sheridan Street, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37 Block 185 Lot 39. Approximate amount of judgment $619,486.41 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #615650/2022. For sale information, please contact XOME at www.Xome.com or call (844) 400-9633. Brian J. Davis, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-003754 90879 161658
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU NewRez LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing, Plaintiff AGAINST Vishal Dan; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 3, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 15, 2026, at 2:00 PM, premises known as 122 Rockaway Parkway, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situated, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 37 Block 90 Lots 110 & 248. Approximate amount
of judgment $458,688.49 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 600396/2020. Foreclosure auction will be held “Rain or Shine” Anthony C. Esq., Referee
Curcio,
LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792 Dated: July 27, 2026 161708 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT NASSAU COUNTY FAIRGATE TRUST, Plaintiff against ETIENNE ALLONCE, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Margolin, Weinreb & Nierer, LLP, 575 Underhill Boulevard, Suite 224, Syosset, NY 11791. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered May 2, 2023, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 21, 2026 at 3:30PM. Premises known as 173 Shaw Street a/k/a 173 Shaw Avenue, Valley Stream, NY 11508. Sec 37 Block 283 Lot 34 and 35. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $198,309.60 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 610487/2021. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the
injures trapped female resident A house fire in Valley Stream seriously injured one woman in the early morning of Aug. 27, according to officials. The blaze in the two-story Cape Cod-style home was first reported at 6:10 a.m on North Terrace Place. A resident who was trapped inside was rescued by Valley Stream and Elmont firefighters and taken to Nassau County Medical Center in East Meadow in serious condition. There were no other injuries reported. In addition to Valley Stream and Elmont, Hewlett, Lawrence-Cedarhurst, Inwood and Woodmere volun-
teers fought the fire — roughly 65 in total — and brought the fire under control in 45 minutes, officials said. The home was searched and ventilated afterward, according to the Hewlett Fire Department. The Nassau County Fire Marshal’s Office and police from the county’s Arson/ Bomb Squad are investigating the cause of the fire.
— Jeffrey Bessen & Anthony Favilla
Public Notices
foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” Kristin Nicole Moro, Esq., Referee File # 26-0052 161860
#608357/2024. Jared Kasschau, Esq, Referee FEIN, SUCH & CRANE, LLP 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800 Rochester, NY 14614 NFUNY004 90924 161920
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU NAVY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, Plaintiff AGAINST MARK SOOKRAJ; TRICIA RAGOONANAN A/K/A PATRICIA RAGOONANAN, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered November 7, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 29, 2026 at 2:30 pm, premises known as 36 Fourth Street, Valley Stream, NY 11580 a/k/a 36 Fourth Street, Valley Stream, NY 11581. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 39 Block: 013 Lot: 101. Approximate amount of judgment $575,572.18 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 09/16/2026 at 2:00 P.M. to consider the following applications and appeals: -----------------------------THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 2:00 P.M. 495/26. NR VALLEY STREAM - Fogo De Chao Churrascaria (JFK Valley Stream) LLC, Install one (1) illuminated wall sign for restaurant (north facing) which is not tenant space; Install one (1) illuminated wall sign for restaurant (east facing) which is not tenant space., S/E cor. Sunrise Hwy. & Green Acres Rd., a/k/a 2034 Green Acres Rd.
ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550.
This notice is only for new cases in Valley Stream within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals The internet address of the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it. 162097 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU CARRINGTON MORTGAGE SERVICES, LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST JACLYN CANNIZZARO A/K/A JACLYN M. CANNIZZARO, LORETTA CANNIZZARO, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant
to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered November 13, 2019, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on October 6, 2026 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 63 Garden Street, Valley Stream, NY 11581. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, SBL# 39-408-4. Approximate amount of judgment $390,428.35 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #611311/2018. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. Brian Davis, Esq., Referee Tromberg, Miller, Morris & Partners, PLLC 39 Broadway, Suite 1840 New York, NY 10006 25-001130 90992 162040
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 To Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232
17
N1 09/03
Employment
CLASSIFIED
To pLACE your AD CALL 516-569-4000 - press 5
Fax your ad to: 516-622-7460 E-mail your ad to: ereynolds@liherald.com E-mail Finds Under $100 to: sales@liherald.com DEADLINE: Monday, 11:00 am for all classified ads.
Every effort is made to insure the accuracy of your ad. Please check your ad at the first insertion. Credit will be made only for the first insertion. Credit given for errors in ads is limited to the printed space involved. Publisher reserves right to reject, cancel or correctly classify an ad.
ROOSEVELT
CHILDREN’S ACADEMY CHARTER SCHOOL Grades K-8
SCOPE EDUCATION SERVICES
IMMEDIATE OPENINGS
BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL CHILD CARE PROGRAMS
SCOPE IS HIRING
Hiring Directors, Assistants, Group Leaders and Substitutes. Up to a $500 Signing Bonuses, Scholarships and Employee Referrals Questions call: 631-360-0800 ext. 149 or send a resume to: cc@scopeonline.us SCOPE Education is an equal opportunity Employer
BUS NOW HIRINGIVERS AND VAN DR
DON’T MISS The Bus!
$5000 SIGN ON BONUS FOR ALREADY LICENSED CDLBPS & CPS DRIVERS!
SEPTEMBER PAYRATES
$33.93/hr.
Non-Benefit Rate
Van $31.16/hr.
Non-Benefit Rate
Sign On Bonus *Some restrictions may apply.
and van $500.00 for non CDL drivers. Will train qualified applicants
EDUCATIONAL BUS TRANSPORTATION
1359462 1355793
We Guarantee 30 Hours A Week
$5,000.00 for CDL driver bus
$35,360
Bachelor Cert $54,308.70 Master Cert $59,847.63
• MATH COACH
$17.00
• MIDDLE SCHOOL PRINCIPAL IF YOU THINK YOU CAN ADD TO THE FOCUS OF RCACS PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR COVER LETTER AND RESUME TO
rdillehay@rcacs.org
516.454.2300 Call Today!
Positions available in Nassau and Suffolk Counties
Apply At: www.educationalbusjobs.com/ EOE
Looking to Buy, SeLL or Hire? Check out our Classifieds Section — Your go-to local marketplace.
1360391
RANGE $140,000 - $150,000
(Salary is $17.00 per hour)
Main Location 111 Pleasant Avenue, Roosevelt, New York 11575 516-867-6202 • www.rcacs.org EMPLOYMENT
1361569 1356440
NEW
POSITIONS AND STARTING SALARIES • RESPONSE TO INTERVENTION
$87,500
For The Before & After School Child Care Programs That Will Be Opening For The 2026 - 2027 School Year In Nassau and Suffolk County Elementary Schools
Big Bus
Established 2000
Roosevelt Children’s Academy Charter School was the first charter school to be established in Long Island, New York. Now Hiring: Dynamic Educators and Leaders! We are seeking energetic teachers, passionate professionals holding a valid NYS Certification for the following open positions:
Help Wanted BELLMORE UFSD NOW HIRING Permanent, Guaranteed, Everyday, Building Substitutes, Full Time. Applicants applying for this position must have New York State Childhood Education (1-6) or (N-6) certification (preferred) or may be pursuing an Undergraduate/Graduate Degree in Education. Teaching Assistants Full Time with Full Benefits. Applicants applying for these positions must have New York State Teacher or Teaching Assistant Certification Teacher Aides - Part Time and Full Time with Benefits School Monitors - Part Time Send Letter/Resume/Certification: Dr. Joseph S. Famularo, Supt. of Schools, 580 Winthrop Ave. Bellmore, NY 11710. Fax 516-679-3027 or email- bellmore@bellmoreschools.org or apply directly on OLAS
EDITOR/REPORTER
Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. H i s t o r i c a l l y, r e p o r t e r s w h o h ave launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com
DRIVERS WANTED
Full Time and Part Time Positions Available! Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239
DRIVING INSTRUCTOR
Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome! $22 - $27/ Hour Bell Auto School 516-365-5778
Email: info@bellautoschool.com
LAND SURVEYOR FT
Surveying Firm Seeks Experienced Only. Instrument Operator $20-$30/hr. Call/ Email Resume 516-678-9610; ra@aksurveyors.com
MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT Inside Sales Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $35,360 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
OUTSIDE SALES
Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $35,360 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250
PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
One phone call, one order, one heck of a good price to run your ad in any state, or across the country.
Call the
USA Classified Network
today! 1-800-231-6152
VALLEY STREAM HERALD — September 3, 2026
HERALD
September 3, 2026 — VALLEY STREAM HERALD
18
N2 09/03
Homes
HERALD
To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5
HOME Of tHE WEEK
• To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5
Old Woodmere
Classic Charm Spacious Living
S
et on one of Old Woodmere’s most coveted streets, this classic sidehall Colonial offers timeless charm and generous living spaces. Highlights include a lemonade porch, sun-filled living room with wood-burning fireplace, eat-in kitchen with oversized pantry, first-floor bedroom and full bath, and large entertaining deck. Upstairs features a primary en-suite plus two additional bedrooms. A detached two-car garage, loft storage, and sought-after Hewlett Neck amenities with 24-hour security complete this exceptional home.
Preparing to sell in an area that flooded Q. We live in an area that was flooded, and have a few items to take care of before we sell. My husband put in a deck when we first moved in, around 1982. It has been there so long, but the real estate people told us it still needs a permit. It’s only 24 inches off the ground. They also mentioned that it’s too close to our back property line, but we’re next to a waterway and have no neighbors behind us. Is that still the same problem? Our fences are new and so are the front steps, which we rebuilt to add planters and a bench. What can you tell us about what we should do before we sell?
A. Take a lovely vacation and relax, enjoy yourself and then prepare for a lot of minutia that will likely delay your ability to sell, unless you negotiate the price down for a buyer who can persuade a lender that they will take over the list of items you mentioned. In situations like this, there are many peripheral issues. For example, the wateronte eeper way may be either a local or state jurisdiction that limits how close you can build to a “protected” environment. As if that’s not enough, your municipality is one of the few that has many outstanding requirements that it claims it notified every homeowner about right after Hurricane Sandy. Prepare for the ambush of having to get a “proof of loss statement from the National Flood Insurance Program.” I have heard time and time again, “Oh, we had no damage,” which is great, since the national clearinghouse that compiles records about every property will prove that. If it turns out that there was a large payout from private insurance or public funding, the NFIP letter will show that more is needed, including recent building plans, a possible plumbing permit, electrical inspection and documents to close out a repair permit — yes, even from over a decade ago. When I arrive at a home and have to go into detail about how many requirements there are and how strict they’ve become, I always think of our custodian in elementary school. His name was Gus, and I remember his large, round face and how disgusted he was when he was called to a classroom where a child had thrown up lunch from the cafeteria. I identify with Gus, because mopping up these not-so-simple messes, the ones that someone told you were simple, is getting more complicated the longer people wait. This doesn’t seem to be the case in every jurisdiction, mostly the largest ones. Many decks built long ago don’t meet recent code standards, and there’s no such thing as “grandfathered.” The hours spent explaining these things, and then reexplaining them when a handyperson doesn’t install the correct connectors or takes a shortcut with a required footing support, add up to more cost and animosity. Good luck!
Ask The Architect
M
Nanci-sue Rosenthal Licensed RE Agent, BA 516.316.1030 nancisue.com Stacey Simens Licensed RE Salesperson, CBR 516.455.8152 bhhslaffey.com/Stacey-Simens 950 Broadway, Woodmere
REAL ESTATE Real Estate WE BUY HOUSES for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-888-704-5670
Apartments Wanted PLEASANT, RESPONSIBLE, FEMALE Seeking Studio Or 1BR Or Share. Prefer Nassau County Or Queens. 516-547-1349 VALLEY STREAM/ ROCKVILLE CENTRE VICINITY: Professional Seeking Studio/ Lower Level Apt. $1500/Month. References Available. 516-286-1968
Rent Your Apartment through the Herald and PrimeTime Classified section. Call us for our great *specials. 516-569-4000, press 5 for Classified Dept. *(private party only)
Helping you find a HOME or sell a HOME … a place to call your own. Suburb or country, house, condo, townhouse or apartment, our Classifieds can help you find a HOME that fits your style, your budget and Real Estate needs... it’s a MUST SEE!
Call us today!
Your Hometown Newspaper
To Place an Ad Call: 516-569-4000 • Press 5
L
© 2026 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
19
N3 09/03
Market Place • •
To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5
To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5
VALLEY STREAM HERALD — September 3, 2026
HERALD
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To Advertise On This Page
Please call Ellen at
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Call 516-534-5907 to schedule your free quote today!
1361181
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1357128 1333017
completed by 9/30/26. Must mention ad at time of booking.
50% OFF
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Installed, Serviced, Repaired
$
Lic. H18C6020000 LIAB. DISAB + W/C INS.
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Suffolk License #52306-H East Hampton License #9215-2018 • Nassau License #H3309640000 1360954 INSURED
SPECIALIZING IN: S
Al Renovations • Bathrooms • Kitchens • Basements All ts Attics • Carpentry • Painting • Roofing • Flat Shingle Masonry • Stoops • Brickwork • Waterproofing Power Washing • Fire, Flood & Mold Remediation
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Call 516-428-5777
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516-806-6887 631-657-5059
1356085
223-4525 •
1359218 1351298
Sunday, August 02, 2020 11:31:01 AM
Sr. Citizen Discounts
1355427 1227928
OWA_GotClutter_BW_Bold
Financing Available
or Email: ereynolds@liherald.com
September 3, 2026 — VALLEY STREAM HERALD
20
HERALD
Stuff
To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5 ANNOUNCEMENTS Announcements JOIN US EVERY FRIDAY at 7:30 pm, the Baha’i Center, 11 West Jamaica, Valley Stream For prayers, meditation, reflection, fellowship and refreshments. All are welcome. SAVE ON YOUR TRAVEL PLANS! Up to 75% More than 500 AIRLINES and 300,000 HOTELS across the world. Let us do the research for you for FREE! Call: 877 988 7277
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FINDS UNDER $100 Finds Under $100 ANTIQUE HIGHBOY, SOLID mahogany, great condition. Photo available. Asking $99.00 516-637-6603
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Wanted To Buy
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N4 09/03
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Home Improvement
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HErald
Crossword Puzzle
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Telephone Services
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Answers to todAy’s puzzle
21
OPINIONS
ong Island is getting older. Over the past decade, Nassau and Suffolk counties have added more residents over age 65 than anywhere else in the state. More than a halfmillion older adults call this place home, and they’re not all flocking to Florida. Long Island retirees aren’t uniformly downsizing or decelerating. They’re rejecting the outmoded idea that chronological age determines how we should live. In a world of 30-year retirements and second and third acts, a single number can no longer capture a person’s capacity, purpose or potential. We propose a different framework: your “feels-like” age. Your chronological age tells you how long you have lived. Your feels-like age reflects how you are living — the combined influence of your psychological outlook, social connections, physical health and environment. It is fluid, and offers a far more accurate picture of where you are in your aging journey. To understand feels-like age, consider
D
Carmen Herrera. Born in 1915, Herrera painted in relative obscurity for over a half-century. She worked in a small New York City loft, lived modestly and sold almost nothing. Things finally changed in 2004, when, at age 89, she was connected with a gallery owner who needed to fill a slot for a show. That show was her breakthrough: Critics embraced her, and she earned exhibitions at the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Museum of Modern Art. And even after achieving this recognition, she continued to paint daily, well past 100. Though Herrera’s chronological age was “late life,” her feels-like age aligned with what we call the SettledIn stage. Psychologically, she was ambitious; socially, she was networking; physically, she was continuing to create. The number 89 was, well, just a number, describing little else than how long she had lived. Feels-like aging acknowledges physical realities, but recognizes that vitality is multi-dimensional. A person’s lived
stage is defined by more than just biology — it is a product of mindset, relationships and purpose. Our aging journey is nonlinear. It is about movement across different flexible stages of aging that do not need to occur in sequence. We call that movement the “flicker.” People can move forward and backward across stages, depending on a range of factors and interventions. To understand this, consider Howard. In his early 80s, Howard lived in Florida, and had once embraced an active outdoor lifestyle. Over time, chronic knee pain narrowed his world. He felt older than his 82 years, and was drifting toward what we would describe as the Supported Living stage — because of only one factor, his knees, which were off balance. At his wife’s urging, Howard underwent knee-replacement surgery. Recovery restored his mobility and confidence, and he returned to the activities he had shared with his wife. “I feel like I’m 70 again,” he told us. Howard “flick-
ered” because intervention and intention changed his trajectory. Taken together, feels-like age and flicker give us a framework for taking full advantage of lifespans. The shift can be transformative. When people see themselves as capable of movement — of entering a new stage, of regaining capacity, of redefining purpose — they plan differently. They invest in prevention, as Howard did. They pursue lifelong work and creativity, as Herrera did. Retirement becomes redesign, not retreat, and aging becomes a process to navigate, not dread. When we think about Herrera’s late-life artistic ascent, or Howard’s return to mobility, we see that the calendar cannot fully define a human being. Our passions, potential and choices are what truly shape us. Stuart C. Kaplan is chief executive officer of Selfhelp Community Services Inc. Marcus Riley is the founder of the Booming Ageing Agency. They are the coauthors of “Your Aging Advantage.”
Fulfilling our promises to the 9/11 community
ecades after the worst terrorist attacks in our history, on Sept. 11, 2001, we continue to feel the aftershocks here on Long Island and beyond. As we approach the 25th anniversary of that day, our nation has a solemn obligation to honor the innocent victims, the first responders and their families, and to hold the perpetrators accountable. Honoring our heroes and the 9/11 community includes guaranteeing that survivors have access to the health care they need. We must also ensure that those still grappling with the loss of family members receive the compensation they are owed from the governments that supported the attacks. Finally, it is our duty to preserve the memories of our fallen first responders. In Congress, I will continue to fight for the 9/11 community and ensure that impacted families receive the justice, care and recognition they deserve. After the attacks, first responders, survivors and volunteers who worked at what became ground zero developed
debilitating conditions from their exposure to toxins. The tireless advocacy of leaders of the 9/11 community led to the creation of the World Trade Center Health Program in 2011, which became a lifeline for thousands to receive care at no cost. That includes nearly 7,000 survivors in New York’s 4th Congressional District. But the program has faced ongoing funding shortages. That’s why I proudly championed bipartisan legislation to right this wrong and fully fund its work. This year the bill became law, and provided long-sought certainty for the thousands of Americans who rely on the WTCHP. Despite this victory, the administration has disrupted the program by removing leadership, cutting staff and driving up wait times for critical care. I joined my New York congressional colleagues on both sides of the aisle to demand that the administration honor its duty to the 9/11 community and reverse course. No one whose health was affected should ever worry about accessing the care they require. We must also ensure that the governments that supported Al Qaeda pay what they owe victims’ families. In 2015,
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Congress established the United States Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism Fund for victims’ families to obtain some justice and compensation from the perpetrators. While no amount of money can ever make up for the devastating losses of Sept. 11, this fund will provide some relief to the families. They have obtained legal judgments against countries that supported Al Qaeda, including Iran, but those judgments remain unpaid. That’s why I led a bipartisan effort urging President Trump to ensure that Iran pays the billions of dollars it owes to 9/11 families. I also introduced bipartisan legislation to provide targeted financing to ensure that the fund dependably delivers compensation to victims’ families. For 25 years they have waited for justice for what they have endured, and I won’t stop fighting to ensure that they receive it. Finally, we can never forget, nor fully repay, the 9/11 first responders. We can, however, honor their courage by ensuring that their names are never forgotten. Thousands of them, including Detectives Luis Alvarez, Brian Lavin and Patrick Franzone, from Nassau County, embodied the very best of our
e must continue to honor those who died, and take care of the survivors.
nation before their lives were tragically cut short by 9/11-related illnesses. To preserve their memory, I proudly passed bipartisan legislation to fund the National September 11 Memorial and Museum so that future generations can learn the history of that dark day. To honor Alvarez, I recently introduced legislation that would rename the U.S. post office in his hometown of Oceanside in his memory. Alvarez was a staunch advocate for his fellow 9/11 first responders, and moved Congress to permanently replenish the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund before he died of cancer in 2019. I’m proud to have the support of the entire New York delegation, Democrats and Republicans, behind this bill and to move it closer to passage, forever memorializing Alvarez’s legacy. As the historic anniversary approaches, there is still much more work to do to honor and care for the 9/11 community. I won’t stop fighting to ensure that our first responders and survivors have the care they need, that 9/11 families obtain justice and compensation from the financiers of the heinous attacks, and that our lost heroes are never forgotten. We owe the 9/11 community a solemn duty, and we must continue to fulfill it. Laura A. Gillen represents the 4th Congressional District.
VALLEY STREAM HERALD — September 3, 2026
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How about focusing on your ‘feels-like’ age?
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HERALD EDITORIAL
Valley stream
HERALD September 3, 2026 — VALLEY STREAM HERALD
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Cheer students on beyond the classroom
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s a new school year gets underway, students are returning to classrooms on campuses across Long Island. They are also returning to athletic fields, courts, tracks and pools, rehearsal halls and laboratories, where they will spend countless hours training, practicing and studying for everything from football games to band and choir concerts and stage productions to science fairs and art shows, at which they will represent their schools. That makes this an ideal time for communities to remember that supporting local schools means more than voting on the district budget, following test scores and celebrating a championship after the fact. One of the simplest and most meaningful ways residents can support young people is by showing up. Extracurricular school activities are an important part of the fabric of our communities. For students, participation is about far more than wins and losses or hitting the perfect musical note. These activities offer them opportunities to build confidence, learn discipline, develop teamwork and leadership skills, overcome adversity and form friendships that can last long after graduation. The lessons learned from being part of a team, a music ensemble or the cast
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LETTERS Our laws assume, incorrectly, that our leaders have integrity To the Editor: The fundamental faith of its people that elections are fair and safe are the hallmarks of a democracy. Sowing doubt is how autocracies take hold. In other countries, it is illegal to spread false or seriously misleading information attacking the integrity of the electoral process. Article 323 of Brazil’s Electoral Code makes it a crime for candidates to knowingly spread false facts about political parties or candidates. Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro was sentenced to 27 years in prison for plotting to overturn the results of the 2022 election after spreading unfounded claims about election fraud. In this country, there are slander and defamation laws. However, politicians are exempt. Why? In England, Section 106 of the Representation of the People Act 1983 makes it illegal to make a false
of the school play can’t be taught in a classroom. Working with peers toward a common goal teaches cooperation and accountability. Performing in public, whether leaping to spike a volleyball or playing an instrument, requires courage and confidence. But while coaches, advisers and families play essential roles in supporting these students, the encouragement of the larger community matters, too. An energetic crowd sends a message to students that their efforts are noticed and appreciated. It lets them know that the hours they’ve devoted to practicing over the summer, after school and on weekends mean something beyond the performance. It reminds them that they aren’t simply playing for themselves, but representing a school and a community that is behind them. And supporting your schools’ athletes and performers doesn’t have to be complicated. Get in the car. Bring the family. Invite a friend or neighbor. Spend an afternoon at a soccer match or a crosscountry meet. Attend the concert. Go to the play. You don’t need to know every rule. You don’t need to have a child or a grandchild on the team or on the stage. You just have to show up. Attending a school event can also be a reminder of what makes a community
special. Games and performances bring students, parents, teachers, alumni and neighbors together. They’re an opportunity for community members to see young people working hard, supporting one another and taking pride in the name on their uniforms. The musician performing on stage, the artist displaying a painting and the student presenting a science project deserve encouragement just as much as the athlete scoring a goal. Supporting students means recognizing achievement, effort and creativity in all their forms. As the new academic year takes shape, residents of every school district should make an effort to get out of the house and become part of the experience. Check the local school calendar, and choose a game, performance or event. Our schools are among the centers of community life, and the students who walk their halls today will help shape our communities tomorrow. A few hours spent cheering them on may seem like a small gesture, but to a young person who looks into the crowd and sees a community supporting them, that can mean the world. This school year, let’s do more than applaud our students from afar. Let’s show up for them.
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OPINIONS
hen I took office as a Nassau County Legislator in District 14 eight months ago, I did so with a simple belief: Government should work for the people, not for politicians. That principle may sound self-evident, but putting it into practice requires elected officials to remember that public service is not about personal agendas, political parties, or who gets the credit. Good government is about setting aside disagreements and working together to improve the everyday lives of the residents we were elected to serve. Since taking office again in January, I have strived to make that philosophy the foundation of my service to Valley Stream, Lynbrook, and Elmont. Putting people first means prioritizing safety, infrastructure and real community solu-
LETTERS statement about a candidate’s personal character or conduct to affect an election. Candidates can be disqualified from standing for or holding office for three years. More serious corrupt practices can result in a five-year disqualification. Authoritarian regimes send militias to the polls, and spread false claims of voter fraud to intimidate voters and undermine confidence in elections. Are Republicans in this country acting any differently? The one lesson we should have learned from Jan. 6, 2021, is that our laws depend too heavily on the integrity of those in power. Our Constitution has baby teeth — important protections that can be too easily ignored or exploited by those willing to disregard democratic norms. Congress must enact stronger laws to give our democracy its permanent teeth: clear, enforceable safeguards with real consequences for those who try to undermine it. CLAUDIA BORECKY President, Bellmore Merrick Democratic Club Merrick
tions over partisan posturing. We recently saw what this peoplefirst approach can accomplish, when the Legislature passed bipartisan legislation prohibiting the sale and distribution of Kratom. When it came to protecting public health and safety, legislators from both sides of the aisle came together. We did not allow party labels to delay action on protecting our families. That same commitment to practical solutions guides my work closer to home. When local officials identified urgent safety and infrastructure needs in our villages, my focus was not on political lines, it was on how Nassau County could serve as an effective partner. Through the county’s Community Revitalization Program, I secured over $530,000 for critical local equipment:
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Department for lifesaving automated external defibrillators and self-contained breathing apparatus equipment. ■ $238,993 for Valley Stream Public Works equipment upgrades.
egislators came together when the focus was on protecting public health.
■ $131,794 for the Lynbrook Police Department to replace outdated portable radios. ■ $160,000 for the Lynbrook Fire
Additionally, I secured $500,000 in county capital funding for a comprehensive flood mitigation and drainage study in District 14. For too long, chronic flooding has disrupted lives and threatened property. This study is an essential first step toward identifying antiquated infrastructure and delivering long-term structural relief. These investments are not Democratic victories or Republican victories — they are human investments. A police radio does not have a political affiliation. Neither does an AED, a firefighter’s breathing apparatus or a public works vehicle. And when heavy storms hit, floodwaters do not care how you vote. Residents work too hard and pay too much in taxes to watch their needs take a backseat to political turf wars. They
want safe streets, responsive representatives, and local tax dollars reinvested directly into their neighborhoods. When they call our offices, they deserve to know that someone is listening and ready to deliver. There will always be issues on which elected officials disagree. Healthy debate is a cornerstone of democracy. But disagreement should never become an excuse for inaction, nor should politics ever stand between a community and the resources it deserves. As your legislator, I will continue reaching across the aisle, collaborating with our village governments, school districts and first responders and delivering tangible results for Valley Stream, Lynbrook, and Elmont. Public office is a public trust. The ultimate measure of effective government is simple: Are we making people’s lives better, safer and easier? That is the standard I will apply every single day. Because no matter which party label we wear or which office we hold, the people must always come first. Cynthia Nuñez, of Valley Stream, represents Nassau County’s 14th Legislative District.
FRAMEWORK by Tim Baker
The Jazz Creole Festival, at the Vault — Elmont
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VALLEY STREAM HERALD — September 3, 2026
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Good government means putting people first
The Experts at U.S. News Agree: Mount Sinai South Nassau is High Performing
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September 3, 2026 — VALLEY STREAM HERALD
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