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Moving onward and upward
Courtesy Valley Stream Central High School District
‘order up!’ Valley Stream Central High School, a top magnet school, has a blossoming culinary program and is looking to expand even more of its trade and technical offerings. Story, more photos, Page 5.
Village of Valley Stream to mark 100 years with big bash By JUAN lASSo jlasso@liherald.com
The Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, the third-largest village in the state, is about to hit its centennial mark. The years 1925 and 2025 will serve as bookends to ten decades of colorful history — with both years falling in periods of significant growth for Valley Stream. At almost 100 years old, this suburban community at the edge of New York City is sprawling, larger than ever, and home to an increasingly diverse population. Tracing back its arc to the beginning, its residents, before forming a local government, were under the direct rule of the Town of Hempstead. Its budding population was
about 7,500, according to village records. It hosted a few schools, and was still surrounded by tracts of farmland. Fast-forward to today, and the village — over 40,000 residents strong — is a suburban hub with four school districts, a volunteer fire department, a village government and a robust local infrastructure. As Valley Stream nears the big 100, village officials plan to raise a glass with an even bigger year-long bash. Everyone is invited to celebrate.
Celebrating a ‘great big, small village’
“Our yearlong centennial celebration will begin right away,” Mayor Ed Fare said in a stateContinued on page 8
Valley Stream is never static. It is a growing village with limitless potential. All manner of people are drawn to this suburban gem, captivated by its vibrant energy and strong sense of community. Our playgrounds, tree-lined parks and scenic pools are popular gathering spots for residents of all ages to play, exercise and connect. Compassion fuels this community, matched only by its commitment to excellence in our schools and the dedication shown by our volunteer organizations, firefighters, veterans and scout troops. While we embrace change, our village is mindful of the legacy and history left by countless residents who believed in the unique character of our community. On the heels of the village’s centennial, Valley Stream moves onward and upward. Here at the Herald, we renew our pledge to serve as your trusted and committed source of hyperlocal news and stand behind our mission to report the stories that matter most to you. Every day, our dedicated team of journalists works tirelessly to inform you about the developments that directly impact your life. Whether it’s keeping you abreast of what’s happening in village government or providing you with essential reporting when tragedy strikes, we’re there when you need us. It’s also our pride to capture the beauty of life in Valley Stream — highlighting the achievements of our children
and students, and spotlighting the uplifting acts of service from our volunteers and everyday heroes. We also serve as your handy guide for the latest events and happenings around town, including spotlighting “hidden gems,” as reported on in the latest edition of Living In Valley Stream that accompanies this week’s newspaper. If you like what you’re reading and you’re not already a subscriber, consider supporting hyperlocal journalism today. We offer annual subscriptions — including at a special rate — on Page 11. If you are already a Herald subscriber, thank you. We’re honored that you’ve entrusted us to be your source of local news. We also understand the importance of tapping into the power of digital media, and invite you to take a look at our online platform that complements our print edition. You can access breaking news and our weekly stories conveniently on our website, LIHerald.com/valleystream. And be sure to follow us on our Valley Stream Herald Facebook page. As we strive to strengthen our bond with village residents, we encourage you to reach out to us with your stories, inquiries and concer ns. You can email me at jlasso@liherald. com, or call me at (516) 569-4000, ext. 236. We hope you enjoy the paper, and look forward to hearing from you! Juan Lasso, Editor