Valley Stream Herald 03-05-2026

VALLEY STREAM

A student and her art

Forest Road School student Alma Lombert with her piece at the Student Art Showcase at Memorial Junior High School last Saturday.

V.S. composer takes post at church in upstate Hyde Park

By ANGElINA ZINGARIEllo azingariello@liherald.com

Valley Stream composer Leonard J. Lehrman has been appointed interim music director at St. James Episcopal Church, in Dutchess County’s Hyde Park, for the first half of 2026. St. James, founded in 1811, is widely known for its long association with President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Eleanor Roosevelt. Sometimes referred to locally as “the Roosevelt Church,” the parish maintains an active congregational life and hosts annual historic graveyard tours that highlight prominent figures and longtime community members.

Lehrman, a Valley Stream resident and owner of Court Street Music since 1999, began serving the Hyde Park parish on Christmas Eve after responding to a national vacancy notice distributed through the American Guild of Organists. He was initially engaged to provide music for Christmas Eve and several Sundays following a sudden opening in the church’s music program. When the need continued into February, he was asked to remain.

The Rev. Meredith Kadet Sanderson, rector of St. James since November 2022, appointed Lehrman as interim music director after consultation with the wardens, who lead the vestry, while the

By ANGElINA ZINGARIEllo azingariello@liherald.com

Two months after Charlie Kenney, of Seaford, was killed in a car accident, Valley stream resident Desiree Fasulo has stepped up with a heartfelt fundraising campaign to help support his wife and two children.

Fasulo coordinated a network of friends from the South Shore boating community in a Feb. 15 fundraiser at Orangetheory Fitness in Seaford, raising $1,300 to support his wife, Michelle Kenney, and their children, Nicholas, 13, and Juliana, 9.

family

trees. Two months later, friends chose to mark the anniversary not only with remembrance, but also with action.

We really are getting her and her family through this by showing her so much love and support

DEsIREE FAsulo Fundraiser organizer

“It was just so magical and beautiful and special, and you felt the love,” Fasulo said. “We really are getting her and her family through this by showing her so much love and support.”

Charlie Kenney, 50, died Dec. 14 in a car accident on the Southern State Parkway while driving home during a snowstorm after selling Christmas

Fasulo and Charlie Kenney first met about five years ago through a shared love of boating. Both families kept boats and regularly gathered at Zach’s Bay with a close-knit group they called their “boat family.” They participated together in events such as the Freeport boat parade and spent Sundays on the water. Over time, Fasulo said, the families became deeply connected. After Charlie Kenney’s death, Fasulo felt compelled to organize something tangible to help support his family. Drawing on years of experience with the Valley Stream Parent Teacher Association, she approached the effort the way she would a school fundraiser — assembling a team, assigning roles and moving quickly.

The idea evolved into a spe-

Continued on page 14

things to know daylight saving time

Clocks spring forward as debate over practice continues

By BRIAN KACHARABA

bkacharaba@liherald.com

Daylight saving time returns during the early morning hours of March 8, when clocks across most of the United States move forward one hour at 2 a.m. The seasonal shift, designed to extend evening daylight, signals the unofficial start of longer spring days, while also renewing debate about its history, purpose and whether the practice should continue.

How a wartime measure became a yearly tradition

Daylight saving was first widely adopted during World War I as a way to conserve fuel and energy by making better use of natural daylight. Germany introduced the concept in 1916, and the United States soon followed. The practice ended after the war but returned during World War II before becoming standardized nationwide under the Uniform Time Act of 1966. Observance was not uniform, and for decades most of Indiana opted out, creating a confusing patchwork of time rules within the state until statewide adoption in 2006. Over time, the practice shifted from an energy-saving strategy into a widely observed lifestyle tradition, influencing commerce, recreation, daily routines, and cultural events, becoming an ingrained part of modern life.

Springing forward can leave you a little sleep deprived

The spring transition to daylight saving time is often associated with sleep disruption and temporary fatigue, as people effectively lose one hour of rest overnight. Studies have linked the change to short-term increases in workplace accidents, traffic incidents and difficulty concentrating during the following days. However, supporters argue that extended evening daylight encourages outdoor activity, shopping and community events, benefiting local economies and public well-being. Schools, businesses and transportation systems must also adjust schedules twice each year, requiring coordination nationwide. Many health experts recommend gradually adjusting sleep routines before the change to reduce its impact on both children and adults alike.

Should daylight saving time become permanent?

In recent years, lawmakers at both the state and federal levels have debated whether daylight saving time should become permanent or be eliminated altogether. Supporters of permanent daylight saving time argue that later sunsets improve quality of life, reduce crime and boost economic activity. Critics counter that darker winter mornings can create safety concerns for students and commuters. Several states have passed legislation supporting year-round daylight saving time, but federal approval is required before changes can take effect nationwide. Public opinion remains divided, and despite repeated proposals in Congress, Americans continue to adjust their clocks twice a year while the debate remains unresolved.

Green Acres Mall celebrates Black history

By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com

Attendees gathered at Center Court as Green Acres marked its annual Black History Month Celebration, commemorating 100 years of honoring Black history.

Held from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 28, the afternoon highlighted culture, creativity and youth empowerment while reinforcing the shopping center’s role as a community gathering space for Valley Stream and neighboring communities.

“Black History Month has been recognized at Green Acres for several years, and over the past three years, we’ve continued to expand the programming to create a more immersive and community-driven celebration,” Jill Bromberg, community relations manager at Green Acres, said. “Each year, we’ve grown the event by strengthening local partnerships, adding interactive elements and increasing opportunities to highlight youth talent and cultural expression. It’s been exciting to see the celebration evolve into something that truly reflects the vibrancy of our community.”

The celebration opened with the Kids and Cops DJ program, led by a retired law enforcement officer. The two-hour set blended music with community engagement, setting an upbeat and welcoming tone for attendees of all ages.

At 3:30 p.m., the spotlight turned to “Black History Through Dance,” presented by Perfection Dance Center. The Elmont-based studio, which has served students for more than 30 years, performed five dances featuring students ages 6 to 14. Each age group took the

The dancers performed several numbers showcasing Black culture and history.

floor separately before joining together for a combined finale. Between performances, the program provided historical context for each dance style, outlining its origins and influences within

Black history, as well as information about the studio.

Following the performance, Green Acres presented a $500 scholarship to Dare to Dream Perfection Inc., the non-

Historical context for each dance style was shared, outlining its origins and influences within Black history.

profit affiliated with the dance center. The organization supports personal development through dance and dance education and raises funds for scholarships that assist students, particularly those entering the arts, with first-year college tuition, books and related expenses.

“Presenting a $500 scholarship to Dare to Dream Perfection Inc. is especially meaningful because it supports opportunities for young dancers to continue developing their talent,” Bromberg said. “We’re proud to invest in a local organization that uplifts youth and celebrates cultural expression in such a powerful way.”

The event concluded with a Black History Month Game Show from 4 to 6:30 p.m., featuring trivia. Participants answered questions about Black history for the chance to win gift card prizes.

Blakeman joins community to honor Officer Espinosa

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman joined police and union officials to participate in a “Long Island Pizza Strong” event, during which $5 from every pizza sold was donated to the family of fallen Nassau County Police Officer Patricia Espinosa.

Espinosa, a police officer assigned to Nassau’s 5th Precinct, which includes Valley Stream, was killed on her way to work Jan. 31.

How Giving Increases Wealth

Blakeman and officials sat together, spoke about the importance of keeping Officer Espinosa’s memory alive and encouraged residents to order a pie to support her family.

Blakeman also delivered additional pies to a local county Department of Public Works facility for plow drivers to enjoy.

–Hailey Fulmer

Blakeman loading up pizzas to be delivered to the Department of Public Works facility.

Officials hold ‘fireside chat’ on schools, issues

By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com

At the Valley Stream Council of PTAs’ Legislative Breakfast, the focus turned to schools and students, while also touching on broader local and state concerns, during a “fireside chat” with elected officials.

After opening with two community agreements — to remain respectful and to keep the discussion centered on education — the moderator introduced a wide-ranging panel that included Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, representatives for Assemblywoman Judy Griffin and Governor Kathy Hochul, Nassau County Legislators Cynthia Nuñez and Carrié Solages and Village Trustee Kevin Waszak.

Immigration enforcement emerged as the most frequently submitted concern from families.

“Back in 2020, I passed one of the strongest New York state laws that prevents ICE from coming into courthouses without a judicial warrant,” Assemblywoman Solages said. “And I believe we need to extend those sensitive locations to schools to different other places.”

Speakers also addressed fears surrounding racial profiling and the impact of federal immigration policy on local families, underscoring that while immigration is largely a federal matter, state leaders are advancing proposals intended to protect school communities.

“As your legislator, although I’m not at

Nassau County Legislator Cynthia Nuñez, Joseph Agovino, the representative for Assemblywoman Judy Griffin, Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages and Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick sat on the Feb. 28 panel at the Valley Stream Council of PTAs’ Legislative Breakfast.

the federal level, I will continue to advocate as your legislator to our congressional representatives because racial profiling is wrong,” Nuñez said.

Another topic centered on tax abatements through Industrial Development Agencies and their effect on school funding.

Lawmakers described legislation aimed at increasing transparency, including livestreaming IDA meetings, adding school board representation and reforming how tax breaks are calculated under the tax cap. Officials urged residents to remain engaged

Drop off date for Art: Friday, February 27

All artists of all ages are invited to participate. Educators

any

are encouraged to invite their students to participate.

Please share this with family, friends, neighbors, co-workers and any artists you may know.

in local government meetings, particularly as public comment rules have changed, stressing the importance of civic participation in budget decisions that affect schools.

Foundation aid and school funding prompted extensive discussion. Officials acknowledged concerns about the outdated funding formula and highlighted ongoing budget negotiations, including proposals to update poverty metrics and increase allocations for universal pre-kindergarten.

“It’s more important now than ever that we provide a funding formula that gives

direct assistance to local school districts, so they don’t have to rely so much on property taxes and local homeowners to fund our schools,” Assemblywoman Solages said. “And we’re also going to have to have a conversation of how we fund our schools here in New York State, because it’s becoming unsustainable to rely on property taxes.”

Lawmakers noted that funding priorities must reflect current standards and rising costs, while also addressing mental health resources and unfunded mandates.

Technology issues — including artificial intelligence and social media — drew many exchanges. Proposals were outlined to integrate AI literacy into curricula, regulate the disclosure of AI-generated content, strengthen age-verification requirements and hold social media companies accountable for harm caused. Local governance was also emphasized, with officials encouraging parents to engage directly with school boards on policy decisions.

Students’ questions addressed snow removal and traffic safety. Officials acknowledged the jurisdictional complexities among village, town, county and state roads, outlined coordination efforts, and encouraged residents to report hazards directly.

Throughout the fireside chat, a consistent theme emerged: while responsibilities differ across levels of government, collaboration and civic engagement remain central to addressing the educational concerns raised by Valley Stream families.

During these tumultuous times of conflict and hyperpolarization, can Neuroscience provide a novel reason for being kind to each other? What beneficial effects occur in the brain chemicals and structure through acts of kindness? What harmful health effects can result from mean-spirited behavior? Can music bring us together?

The Synaptic Groove Band (under the musical direction of Paul Block and scientific direction of True North Neurologist Dr. Alan Ettinger) is a unique musical group that performs community service educational concert/lectures in conjunction with local and national societies. In this concert/lecture we invite people of diverse faiths and political beliefs to come together to explore how acts of compassion can enhance our lives and our health. It’s a journey into how kindness and music together can make us more human, more united, and more alive.

New ICE office in Woodbury sparks concerns

By ROKSANA AMID ramid@liherald.com

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is renting office space in Woodbury for what could be as many as 40 agency attorneys, Newsday has reported. The move is drawing concern from immigration advocates and prompting calls for transparency from local officials.

Last month, ICE began leasing offices in a four-story building at 88 Froehlich Farm Blvd., according to Craig J. Padover, president of the Hauppaugebased Aresco Management, which owns the property. The space, Padover said, is being used for legal offices, but he did not confirm the size or extent of the lease, nor could he verify how many ICE attorneys would ultimately work there.

He added that the space would not be used to house detained immigrants.

The expansion comes as controversy intensifies over President Trump’s deportation campaign. ICE received nearly $80 billion in funding through Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill,” passed last July, increasing the number of agents from roughly 10,000 to 22,000 this year, making it the largest-funded federal law enforcement agency.

ICE already maintains a presence at the federal courthouse in Central Islip and at the Nassau County Correctional Center in East Meadow, where detained

Luke Feeney/Herald

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is leasing office space at 88 Froehlich Farm Blvd. in Woodbury.

migrants are housed. Agents covering Long Island are based primarily in New York City offices.

“One of the most important things to remember is that the Department of Homeland Security and [Secretary] Kristi Noem has not been transparent about what’s going on,” Sylvia LivitsAyass, a partner at Livits Ayass Baskin PLLC and the immigration chair of the Nassau County Bar Association, said.

In Central Islip, marked and unmarked vans have been seen near district courts. Attorneys from ICE’s Office of the Principal Legal Advisor repre -

sent the Department of Homeland Security in immigration-removal proceedings, and can facilitate warrants and enforcement actions.

“My guess is that there will be a ramp-up in ICE presence in Nassau and Suffolk, and they’re probably going to try and facilitate these enforcement actions through warrants and by supporting these operations,” Livits-Ayass said, emphasizing that that remains speculation.

She explained that there are different types of warrants. An administrative warrant is not reviewed by a federal

judge, and is often signed by an ICE officer or agency official. A judicial warrant, by contrast, must be signed by a U.S. District Court judge and typically identifies the court, the name and birth date of the subject of the warrant, and the address to be searched.

“Just because they have a warrant doesn’t mean they can go wherever they want,” Livits-Ayass said.

Because immigration court for downstate New York is at Federal Plaza in Manhattan, she added, the Woodbury lease is surprising. She suggested that it could signal expanded enforcement operations, but also noted that it could simply be cost-effective for ICE to house its attorneys on Long Island. “The bottom line is we don’t know,” she said, “because they’re not telling anybody.”

In a letter to Noem, Rep. Tom Suozzi asked if the lease was accurate and how ICE has engaged with local governments.

In a statement to the Herald, Suozzi wrote, “Expanding deportation operations in safe communities creates fear and undermines trust in local enforcement, and would be a bad policy. Our focus should be on removing dangerous criminals while protecting families who contribute to our local economy and way of life.”

ICE offices in New York City did not respond to the Herald’s request for comment.

Lehrman is now interim music director in Hyde Park

parish conducts a search for its next settled minister of music.

“Leonard has been enthusiastic and joyful about being part of our community,” Sanderson said. “He often stays for coffee hour and enjoys chatting with parishioners. His willingness to make such a significant drive to be with us really demonstrates his passion for music and commitment to community life.”

Sanderson, an Episcopal priest, oversees worship, preaching, education and pastoral care at St. James, and works with parish leadership on administrative matters. She said continuity and stability in worship are priorities during the interim period, along with music that supports congregational participation.

Leonard J. Lehrman rehearsed

Lehrman’s responsibilities include accompanying hymns, providing preludes and postludes, and working with the choir.

“It’s not difficult to choose the music, and I have a very large library of church music that I’ve accumulated over the years,” Lehrman said. He plays the organ and piano for services. The church’s organ requires maintenance, and Lehrman has been assessing needed repairs. Many services are accompanied by a piano.

He has provided music for Sunday services as well as Ash Wednesday and Maundy Thursday observances and is scheduled to serve three or four Sundays per month through the end of June.

Lehrman worked in church music for decades, serving congregations across Long Island and the metropolitan area since the 1980s. His previous positions included churches in Malverne, Babylon, Huntington and Hempstead. He also worked in congregations in New Jersey and New York City.

“Living in Valley Stream,” Lehrman said. “I’m close enough to these places that it’s not impossible to do that.”

In addition to his church work, Lehrman is a composer whose catalog includes operas, choral works and liturgical music. He has written more than

20 works for church and synagogue use. Among them is a musical setting of the Preamble to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a document closely associated with Eleanor Roosevelt’s diplomatic legacy.

Other liturgical works include settings of the Prayer of St. Francis and musical settings of healing prayers, performed in church and interfaith contexts.

Lehrman is the founding president of the Long Island Composers Alliance and has worked as a reference librarian at the Oyster Bay–East Norwich Public Library since 1995, where he has helped catalogue materials related to Theodore Roosevelt.

In January, Lehrman presented the New York City orchestral premiere of his opera “Sima” at Theater for the New City. An edited and subtitled video of that production will be shared during an online event on April 19 at 2 p.m., commemorating the centenary of his uncle, Edgar H. Lehrman, who translated the literary work that inspired the opera.

“Good music and congregational singing are the true joys of worshiping together in community,” Sanderson said. “Having Leonard as a stable musical presence will help us continue providing excellent, welcoming worship to everyone in our wider community.”

Lehrman will continue serving while the church conducts its search process.

Transportation Request to Non-Public School - Deadline - April 1st

In accordance with New York State Education Law and Board of Education policy, all requests for transportation of children in Valley Stream UFSD 30 to private and parochial schools for the following school year must be submitted in writing by a parent, guardian or authorized representative, no later than April 1st. Parents whose children currently receive transportation to private and parochial schools must submit a new request each year along with proof of residency. If homeowners move into the District after the April 1st deadline, they have thirty (30) days to submit a transportation request from the date they established residency in the District. All late requests shall be considered by the Board of Education on the basis of each case’s merit. Transportation applications are available online at https://www.valleystream30.com/124599_3 or by calling Suzanne Brady at 516-434-3600, ext. 5225

NEWS RELEASE

TRANSPORTATION FOR PRIVATE AND PAROCHIAL SCHOOLS 2026-2027

As per Education Law, Section 3635, the District must legally provide transportation for District children in grades K-6 attending private/parochial schools. Kindergarten children must be five (5) years of age as of December 1st, 2026.

• The parent must submit a written request for transportation each year and include the child’s name, date of birth, grade, and school.

• The request must be submitted to the Transportation Department of Valley Stream School District Thirteen at 585 N. Corona Ave., Valley Stream, NY 11580 on or before APRIL 1, 2026 for the school year beginning September 2026.

If your child qualifies for transportation, please be sure that your request is submitted on time. Applications received after April 1st will not be considered except for new residents who are required by law to apply within (30) thirty days after establishing residence in the District. Visit the Valley Stream 13 website for additional information/ application: www.valleystream13.com

The physical therapist with a mission to serve

By HAILEY FULMER hfulmer@liherald.com

Emilian Emeagwali has built a life rooted in service, driven by a deep, generational commitment to uplifting and supporting the community around her.

Born and raised in Onitsha, Nigeria, Emeagwali, 60, emigrated to the United States in 1992, where she faced a dramatic change of lifestyle. In Nigeria, she had been surrounded by support, with help raising a baby girl and managing her daily responsibilities. “Everybody was helping with the baby,” she said. “I was like a queen.”

In America there was no such support system, leaving her to adjust to life with just her husband and their daughter, and to take on a variety of responsibilities herself, from child care to cooking and cleaning.

Determined to adapt, Emeagwali immersed herself in American culture. She spent time watching movies, listening to the news and reading books to better understand her new environment. Even everyday things like food and weather required adjustment.

After moving from Nigeria, Emeagwali received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Brooklyn College. In 2003 she enrolled at Stony Brook University, where she earned a doctorate degree in physical therapy. Balancing school and family life proved difficult, because she was commuting 50 miles from Elmont and now caring for two children.

Despite these challenges, Emeagwali remained focused on her goal of helping others. After finishing her degree, she was motivated to continue her education by a desire to make an impact.

Her psychology classes helped her understand how to approach and connect with people, but she ultimately felt she could make a greater difference through physical therapy. While working as a therapist’s assistant in hospital settings, she became dissatisfied with the fastpaced environment, in which she often treated multiple patients in a short period of time.

Wanting to provide more personalized care, Emeagwali decided to open her own practice. In 2007 she founded State of the Art PT OT, a clinic in Valley Stream that has now been serving patients for nearly two decades. Her approach centers on treating people with the same care and attention she would give her own family.

That philosophy, she said, stems from her upbringing. As a child, she watched her parents give money to people in need, ensuring that they had food to eat. That instilled in her a lasting commitment to helping others and giving back.

“That is how I was raised,” she said. “I think that was embedded in me when growing up.”

In 2009, Emeagwali expanded that mission by founding the nonprofit Giving Back to Community Corp., headquartered in Valley Stream. The organization, which is funded by fundraisers and donations, focuses

on providing food, educational resources and other support to underserved people in surrounding communities as well as in Nigeria.

Whether through her clinic or her nonprofit work, Emeagwali’s impact extends far beyond individual patients, strengthening entire communities and carrying forward the values that first inspired her to give back.

At South Nassau, a steady hand in cardiac care

By ABIGAIL GRIECO agrieco@liherald.com

As director of noninvasive cardiology at Mount Sinai South Nassau, Dr. Pilar Stevens-Haynes has built a career centered on precision, compassion and the belief that medicine can be both life-saving and lifechanging.

That sense of connection is what ultimately steered her toward cardiology. Born and raised in the Elmont/ Valley Stream area, Stevens-Haynes discovered her love of science in high school, drawn to biology and fascinated by a senior-year anatomy and physiology elective.

Though she once envisioned herself as a surgeon, clinical rotations changed her mind. “I thought I would just love surgery,” she said. “But I actually found I loved speaking to patients. In surgery, your patients are unconscious.”

Instead she chose a field that allows her to combine long-term patient relationships with moments of dramatic intervention. While many areas of internal medicine focus on managing chronic illness, StevensHaynes noted that cardiology allows physicians to intervene in acute, life-threatening situations — heart attacks, heart failure or dangerous arrhythmias — and dramatically improve outcomes.

“In cardiology, you can treat someone and sometimes give them back the life they had before,” she said. “I find true joy in taking care of people over time and watching them heal.”

A graduate of SUNY Geneseo, Stevens-Haynes completed her medical training in the Mount Sinai system before joining South Nassau over a decade ago. Her current role centers on cardiac imaging, from

electrocardiograms and echocardiograms to multiple forms of stress testing. Four days a week she oversees the lab, ensuring that the facility meets national accreditation standards.

“The lab has to do what it says it’s going to do,” Stevens-Haynes said. “We have to perform the studies accurately and meet the standards that are set.”

Patient care remains central to her. “I’ve got the best

of both worlds,” she said. “I get to practice medicine, but I also get to do a little bit of curative medicine.”

Throughout her career, she has also navigated the realities of being one of few women — and often the only woman of color — in the room. “You have to get very comfortable by being the one and only,” StevensHaynes said. Early on, she admitted, she was “very, very quiet and shy,” hesitant to draw attention to herself. Over time, however, she came to recognize the importance of representation.

“Patients will say how wonderful it is to see women physicians and to see people that look like them take care of them,” she said. “They trust me because I look like me.”

Mentorship has become one of the most meaningful aspects of Steven-Haynes’s work. She recalled sitting down with a tearful young physician who worried that starting a family would jeopardize her medical career. Stevens-Haynes encouraged her to do both. That physician is now a cardiology fellow.

“It’s important that women know they can have grand professional goals and personal goals — and achieve them,” she said.

Stevens-Haynes credits academic medicine with offering flexibility that has allowed her to balance professional growth with family life. She and her husband, Hector Luna, are raising four children in Baldwin.

She remains driven by the passion that first led her into medicine, and by her belief that physicians can build meaningful careers without sacrificing the aspects of life that matter most.

“Even if it feels overwhelming or like an all-boys club, you can find your niche anywhere,” she said. “Chase your dreams. You don’t have to sacrifice.”

MARCH 13 • 10AM-12:30PM

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Student artwork on display at Memorial

Following the Valley Stream Schools Legislative Breakfast, student artwork took center stage.

The Student Art Showcase gave young artists from the Valley Stream 13, 24, 30 and Central High School districts the opportunity to display their work in an art show on Feb. 28 at Memorial Junior High School.

The art show highlighted schools across all districts’ commitment to student art and its importance in their schools. By giving students this platform, district leaders and educators reinforced the

value of creative expression as an essential part of a wellrounded education.

Families, administrators and local officials circulated throughout the exhibit, taking time to admire the pieces.

For many students, seeing their artwork displayed publicly was a meaningful moment that validated their hard work and creativity. The event served as a reminder that the arts remain a vibrant and vital component of education in Valley Stream’s schools.

–Angelina Zingariello

Nominate a student under 18 for the Sustainability Champion Award to recognize their efforts in driving sustainable change.

Submit a nomination of approximately 100 words or less describing the student’s leadership in promoting sustainability: What motivates them? What impact have they had?

Be sure to include a photo or an example of their work—whether it’s a community garden, an environmental campaign, or a creative solution to a sustainability challenge.

An invisible threat in Long Island’s waters

Researchers study acidification and its potential effects on the future of oysters and clams

By ABIGAIL GRIECO, WILL SHEELINE & JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO of the Herald Community Newspapers

Third installment in a series about water.

For generations, the waters surrounding Long Island have defined its identity — from the wide-open waterfronts of the South Shore to the shellfish beds of the North Shore. But beneath the surface, a quieter transformation is underway.

Ocean acidification is often called climate change’s “evil twin,” and refers to the lowering of the water’s pH, the scale used to measure the concentration of hydrogen ions in the water. While global warming refers to rising temperatures, acidification describes a shift in seawater chemistry.

The science begins with carbon dioxide. As levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere increase — predominantly from the burning of fossil fuels — the ocean absorbs roughly 25 to 30 percent of it. When carbon dioxide dissolves in seawater, it forms carbonic acid, making the water more acidic, and lowering its pH.

farmers — industries that have experienced both revival and setbacks in recent decades — these chemical changes aren’t just theoretical. They are measurable, seasonal and, increasingly, part of daily operations.

The ‘evil twin’ of climate change

Adrienne Esposito, executive director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment, a nonprofit advocacy organization in New York and Connecticut, describes ocean acidification as a hidden but mounting crisis for Long Island’s waters — one intensified by warming temperatures, nitrogen pollution and poor circulation in local bays.

“It’s commonly understood that roughly a third of all carbon dioxide emissions released into the atmosphere are absorbed by the marine environment,” Esposito said. That absorption increases acidity levels in bays, estuaries and the open ocean.

The pH scale is logarithmic, meaning that even a small numerical drop represents a significant shift in chemistry. The ocean is naturally slightly alkaline, but since the Industrial Revolution, average ocean surface pH has dropped by about 0.1 units — roughly a 30 percent increase in acidity. That shift reduces the availability of carbonate ions, the building blocks shellfish such as oysters and clams need to form their calcium carbonate shells.

Ryan Wallace, assistant professor of environmental science at Adelphi University, explained that these acidity levels are not evenly distributed.

On Long Island, acidification is not driven by global carbon emissions alone. Local factors intensify the problem. Nitrogen discharged from wastewater, septic systems and fertilizer runoff flows into bays and harbors, fueling harmful algal blooms. When those blooms die and decompose, the process consumes oxygen and releases additional carbon dioxide in the water, further lowering pH.

The result is a compounding effect: global atmospheric carbon dioxide combined with local nitrogen pollution accelerates acidification in shallow, enclosed estuaries.

Warming waters add another layer of stress. As temperatures rise, marine organisms’ metabolic demands increase, but warmer water holds less dissolved oxygen. Together, warming and acidification can weaken shellfish during their most vulnerable larval stages, making it harder for them to survive and build shells.

For Long Island’s oyster and clam

Some bays and harbors on the North Shore are measured at 450 parts per million, close to the ideal level of roughly 300 ppm, while others, particularly in the western portion of Long Island Sound, measured as high as 2,000 ppm.

Wallace emphasized that while these may not sound like huge differences, even minor changes in CO2 levels can have a drastic impact.

“To put it into perspective, over the last 800,000 years or so, the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere was only about 300” parts per million, Wallace explained. “Two thousand is a lot more than that, so when you get to concentrations that are that high, this can have implications for, you know, organisms that are living in these ecosystems.”

While the data reflect a global pattern, the consequences are being felt at the regional level as well. As Esposito noted, Long Island’s problems do not exist in isolation.

“It’s being exacerbated by an increase in temperature of the waterways and more nutrient runoff, such as nitrogen, going into waterways,” she said. “All of that causes unfortunate degradation to our water bodies.”

While algae is an important part of a healthy ecosystem, excess nitrogen can fuel algal blooms that, when they die off, consume oxygen and further stress marine life — compounding the chemical impacts of acidification with biological ones.

In the South Shore’s Western Bays, limited water circulation compounds the problem. Research by Stony Brook

University has shown that it can take up to 180 days for water to fully flush out through an inlet into the Atlantic Ocean. Instead, Esposito said, the water “sloshes back and forth” before eventually reaching the ocean, trapping heat and pollutants in the process.

Coastal areas such as the western portion of the Sound are especially vulnerable because of limited circulation. Wallace stressed that scientists differentiate between open-ocean acidification and coastal-ocean acidification because of the unique challenges those areas face.

In Hempstead Harbor, the issue of acidification has been a focus for local environmental organizations for decades. The Coalition to Save Hempstead Harbor was formed in 1986 to address a range of environmental issues facing the area, including acidification.

Michelle Lapinel McAllister, the coalition’s programs director, explained that pH monitoring is one of the core services that the nonprofit provides for the harbor. Measuring occurs yearround, with particular emphasis from May to October, when the harbor, in

common with other waterways, sees annual spikes in nitrogen levels.

“Each season we will see periods of low dissolved oxygen, and whenever dissolved oxygen gets low, then we’ll see pH drop as well,” Lapinel McAllister said. “That will typically happen around the hottest part of the year.”

Another complication is the fact that enclosed waters respond more quickly to environmental stressors than the open ocean, meaning local ecosystems can feel the impacts sooner and more intensely.

“The more stagnant the water body is, the more these acidity levels build up,” Esposito said. “The more the temperature builds up, the more damage the increase in acidity levels can do.”

She described three primary consequences of ocean acidification: “reduced water quality, the impact on shellfish and finfish and the degradation of the overall habitat due to low oxygen.”

Shellfish such as oysters and clams struggle to build and maintain their shells in more acidic conditions, while

Rising acidity, rising stakes for coastal shellfish

Continued from PreViouS PAGe

finfish larvae have lower survival rates — threatening both the ecosystem and the region’s maritime economy.

“Acidification actually reduces the availability of carbonate ions that are needed for these organisms to build their shells, so that’s a major issue,” Wallace said. “Like shellfish aquaculture, it can impact fisheries, and then there’s this cascading effect that can influence things like recreational activities and tourism.”

This is especially relevant because shellfish play an important role in regulating nitrogen levels. An adult oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of water per day, depending on size and environmental conditions, while a clam can filter roughly half that.

Across Long Island, and across the country, local environmental organizations and governments are throwing their support behind shellfish hatcheries and protection programs, including the towns of Hempstead, Oyster Bay and Babylon. Lapinel McAllister explained that while these efforts serve an important role in safeguarding healthy ecosystems, they can’t singlehandedly save marine ecosystems.

“On their own, shellfish can’t improve the water quality to healthy levels,” she said, “but having a good, healthy, strong population is going to be part of that overall puzzle of maintaining the stability of pH over long term.”

While local efforts to restore wetlands, upgrade sewage-treatment plants and rebuild shellfish populations are making progress, Esposito said the root cause remains global. “The main culprit of ocean acidification is the burning of fossil fuels,” she said. “The only thing we can do is support more renewable energy so that we’re not pouring more carbon dioxide into the waterways.”

The wet work of marine scientists

Across Long Island, scientists are working together to find ways to improve the quality of local waters. A leading solution is all-organic: Restoring local populations of filter-feeders could, with careful management, bear the brunt of decontamination efforts.

The Flax Pond Marine Laboratory, in Old Field, is nestled in the marshes of the North Shore, overlooking the Long Island Sound. This laboratory is a research hatchery, working toward “improving local coastal water quality and replenishing natural shellfish populations,” according to its shellfish restoration manager, Peter Martin.

The facility’s current focus is the Ribbed Mussel Bioextraction Project, in which staff test what growth strategies lead to the healthiest shellfish that could be reintroduced to coastal waters to rejuvenate them.

“There’s a lot of coastal communities and little inlets and even out-of-use small pockets of water that are just polluted and are in need of cleaner water,” Martin said. “Fundamentally … shellfish are natural filters. All they do is filter feed, so they’re cleaning the water as they grow.”’

“One of the big pollutants that we’re focused on is nitrogen removal,” hatchery Research Specialist Ashley Lopez said. “Shellfish take in the bad form of nitrogen, process it in their body, and they still expel some nitrogen, but it’s a safe and more bioavailable kind of nitrogen.”

The ribbed mussel program is exploring new methods of shellfish cultivation; according to Lopez, there is no consensus in the field about growing large amounts of these shellfish. In their nascence, ribbed mussels have delicate health — a larva is as small as a grain of sand. The Citizens Campaign for the Environment staff regularly sterilize equipment and filter externally sourced seawater to minimize diseases and infections from plankton and bacteria.

The researchers grow eight different varieties of algae to feed adult ribbed mussels, which are kept in temperature-stabilized basins. This conditioning pro-

nonprofits like the Coalition to Save Hempstead Harbor play a vital role in the fight against acidification. Staff members such as michelle Lapinel mcAllister, right, programs director, and Carol diPaolo, water-monitoring coordinator, track pH levels and coordinate a shellfish restoration program to keep the harbor healthy.

Acidification, by the numbers

■ 30 percent of carbon dioxide that is released into the atmosphere is absorbed by the ocean.

■ From 2008 to 2017, fossil fuel burning and land use changes were responsible for 40 billion tons of emissions per year.

■ Surface waters are 30 percent more acidic than their pre-industrial levels.

■ While the ocean on average has seen a 0.06 decrease in pH units, meaning increasing acidity, since 1985, the Long Island Sound has seen a decrease of 0.04 per decade, according to UConn Marine Sciences.

■ In the past 25 years, the $6 billion clamming industry has seen a 93 percent reduction in harvests, according to the New York state Department of Environmental Conservation.

■ More than 12,000 acres of Long Island waterways have been closed to shellfishing due to algal blooms, according to the Suffolk County Health Department.

■ 76 percent of the nitrogen in the waters off Long Island — home to 40 percent of the state’s population — comes from faulty septic systems.

cess is meant to “ripen the gonads” of the mussels and help them reproduce as effectively as possible, according to Martin.

“What we’re doing is trying to find out the best way

to grow a lot of them from birth on and have them actually survive,” Lopez said. “And the starting point, we think, is the feeding regimens that we’re giving them. So that’s why we’re doing different diets — to see what kind of spawn they produce and see how the larvae survive after that.”

“This two-year project is Phase Two of a larger project,” Martin added. “Phase One was from ’23 to ’25. Each phase is getting further and further, doing more to figure out the best way to grow these things.”

In addition to ribbed mussel cultivation, CCE staff are involved with other restoration efforts, including a Community Aquaculture Restoration and Education program, in which scientists partner with community volunteers to sow “spat-on-shell” oysters into local estuaries, from which larvae will grow and mature into underwater custodians.

The Flax Pond hatchery works with groups ranging from the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County and Stony Brook University to the state Department of Environmental Conservation and the New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission. It is one ecological collective of many working toward improving the quality of local waters from the east end of Long Island to the shores of Nassau County.

Setting course for a healthier future

Even as Long Island’s waterways face the threat of rising acidification, the experts emphasize that all is not lost. Thanks to the efforts of the Coalition to Save Hempstead Harbor and other environmental groups, the region’s waters have bounced back from near-toxic levels of acidity, not to mention numerous pollutionrelated threats of the 1980s.

According to Wallace, the efforts of scientists and local volunteers, from the South Shore to coastal Connecticut, to monitor and address these issues have already made an impact.

“There’s been a lot of positives,” he said, “but we can’t stop there. There’s more work to be done.”

Event marked two months since fatal crash

cial Orangetheory class with a fee of $25. The staff members at the fitness studio donated their time, and 33 people attended the class, with others contributing even if they could not participate. All proceeds, collected in an envelope, were personally handed over to Michelle Kenney during the event.

“Watching our community rally around the Kenney family has been incredibly emotional,” head coach at Orange Theory Seaford John Calzadilla said. “When one of our own is going through a difficult time, we show up, and this fundraiser is a reflection of that support and love.”

Fasulo also created “Charlie’s Angels” T-shirts to honor Charlie Kenney’s memory and foster unity among supporters. Initially intended as a small gesture, the shirts quickly gained traction after family members placed a bulk order. Although no profit was made from the shirts, Fasulo said the visible show of solidarity helped build momentum and encourage participation in the fundraiser.

“Now they’re already saying, ‘We want a new design for Charlie’s Angels, maybe with the design on the back, and one for the men,’ and so I’m already planning the second edition of Charlie shirts,” Fasulo said.

Michelle Kenney had been a regular at Orangetheory prior to her husband’s

more than 30 community members gathered at orangetheory f itness in Seaford on feb. 15 to support michelle Kenney and her children, raising $1,300.

death, but stopped attending in the weeks after the accident. She said returning to the fitness studio required significant emotional effort.

Once inside, however, she found comfort in the presence of friends, family and staff. During the 60-minute class, her two children also worked out alongside her.

At the conclusion of the class, Michelle Kenney addressed those gathered and thanked them for their support. Participants then surrounded her in a group hug. Fasulo described the moment as powerful and reflective of

the collective desire to help the Kenney family move forward.

Michelle Kenney, 40, described her husband as a protector who would help anyone in need. Charlie Kenney was raised with three sisters after losing their mother at a young age, which is when he developed a nurturing yet determined personality, consistently putting others first, she said.

“He did everything for any one of his friends or family members, or anybody who maybe he didn’t even have a close connection with,” Michelle Kenney said. “If they needed a helping hand, he

was there. It didn’t matter how little or big, he just wanted to be there to help everybody he could.”

Since her husband’s death, she has navigated sleepless nights and the responsibilities of becoming the sole provider and head of household. She works as director of client services for Primary Vascular Care, a mobile practice headquartered in the Bronx. Colleagues, family and friends supported her in the immediate aftermath of her husband’s death, sitting with her daily during the first week.

Fasulo said plans are already underway for a one-year anniversary fundraiser in December 2026, potentially featuring multiple back-to-back classes to accommodate demand.

For Michelle Kenney, strength now means getting up each day and demonstrating resilience to her children. Juliana is a student at the Jennifer Napolitano School of Performing Arts in Seaford, and Nicholas, who attends Seaford Middle School, recently was accepted into St. Anthony’s High School in South Huntington — a goal his father had long encouraged.

“I can’t even put it into words what it’s like,” Michelle Kenney said. “I don’t want to say our life is destroyed, and that I have such a horrible life, because that’s not the case, because I am left with his legacy. He’s built me and prepared me for who I am today.”

TOH residents want audit on financial reports

By ABBEY SALVEMINI asalvemini@liherald.com

Joseph Scianablo and other Town of Hempstead residents took to Cornwall Avenue Park in West Hempstead demanding greater transparency from the town, calling for a formal state audit after Hempstead officials acknowledged failing to file the legally required financial statements.

Scianablo announced on Feb. 19, he has formally requested that the New York State Comptroller’s Office, led by Thomas DiNapoli, conduct an independent financial and operational audit of the town. The request follows a Jan. 9 “Material Event Notice” in which the town admitted it did not submit its audited financial statements for the fiscal year ending Dec. 31, 2024, and acknowledged violations tied to bond disclosure obligations.

“I’m standing here today as a resident and a concerned taxpayer,” said Scianablo, who is once again the Democratic supervisor candidate. He lost to Supervisor John Ferretti, a Republican, in November. “This is not an accusation — it’s facts, Scianablo added. “The Town of Hempstead failed to comply with the requirements for filing financial statements. They failed the people. They failed to submit the required 2024 audit.”

He described the missed filings as part of what he called a broader “pattern of secrecy and noncompliance,” arguing

Abbey Salvemini/Herald

Residents from the Town of Hempstead residents with Joseph Scianablo, center, the Democratic candidate for supervisor, called for an independent state audit of alleged missing financial reports.

that independent oversight is “not optional — it’s necessary.”

Scianablo pointed to major fiscal decisions over the past two years, including a 12 percent tax hike followed by what he described as an unexplained 18 percent reduction the following year, as examples of why closer scrutiny is warranted.

“Critical decisions in the Town of Hempstead are being made without clear answers,” he said. “This is exactly why an independent audit is necessary. If everything is being done properly by the town, this audit will show that. If problems are uncovered, they must be fixed.”

He also raised concerns about the

town’s animal shelter, citing questions about budgeting, staffing and public access. Referencing the Companion Animal Care Standards Act, Scianablo said transparency should be prioritized rather than “creating a barrier between the shelter and the public.”

“The state comptroller exists to provide independent oversight and protect taxpayers,” he said. “We need to know our money is being managed responsibly. Real leadership means welcoming transparency, not avoiding it.”

Resident Leslie Martin echoed those concerns, alleging that reserve funds were used to give the appearance of tax relief ahead of the 2025 election.

“Instead of providing real relief, the town dipped into reserve funds,” Martin said. “The purpose of reserve funds is to act as a financial safety net, not to create tax breaks for political purposes. As taxpayers, we deserve transparency and accountability.”

The town pushed back on the claims. Spokesman Brian Devine said Ferretti has lowered taxes for residents and that the 2024 financial audit was completed on time and publicly posted online.

“Any suggestion that the town failed its auditing duties is false and misleading,” Devine said, emphasizing that the town has met all state requirements.

Have an opinion on Hempstead Town issues? Send letter to jbessen@liherald. com.

Day of Theatre brings local students together

By MELISSA BERMAN mberman@liherald.com

Students at Hewlett High School stepped outside their comfort zones and into new creative partnerships during the school’s annual Day of Theatre, an immersive experience designed to unite performers across grade levels and classes.

Throughout the day, theater students collaborated in mixed-grade groups to create and perform original vignettes, all within a single school day on Jan. 30. The fast-paced exercise emphasized creativity, teamwork and leadership, while encouraging students to connect with peers they might not otherwise work with.

“Working with students from different classes and grades changed my experience because I was able to meet and speak to people that I would have never spoken to,” junior Emily Liechtung said. “It was very fun to create something with people I wouldn’t normally create things with.”

The event, led by theater teacher Dawn DeMaio, now in her 25th year at the school teaching theatre arts, challenged students to quickly develop ideas, assign roles and bring their performances to life. Many said the experience mirrored realworld theatre environments, where collaboration and adaptability is key.

Sophomore Joseph Figueroa noted that combining students with different levels of experience enhanced the creative process. “Different classes learned

different things and we were able to use our ideas together really well,” he said. “The juniors and seniors were great leaders to us.”

For upperclassmen, the day offered an opportunity to step into mentorship roles.

Senior Liliana Ortiz said working with younger students allowed her to both lead and grow as an artist.

“I got to learn more about different acting styles,” Ortiz said. “I was happy to be not only an example of an actor but also one of a director.”

Freshmen and underclassmen also found value in the collaboration. “Working with older students allowed me to

learn the things they know about theater and enhance the performance,” freshman Jordan Yodowitz said.

Students said the mix of personalities and perspectives helped shape stronger performances. Junior Logan Giron noted that each group brought a unique dynamic, while senior Daniel Becker described the experience as “a breath of fresh air” working with new people.

In addition to performance, students took on responsibilities such as directing, staging and organizing their groups.

Senior Michael Goldstein said clear roles helped his group succeed.

“Everyone brought their own acting

strengths to the table,” he said. “I made sure to watch for blocking and staging so it was clear for the audience.”

By the end of the day, each group presented its finished piece, marking a culmination of hours of collaboration and creativity.

“I was beyond proud of my group’s performance,” senior Claudia Lee said in a message to DeMaio. “I hope I’ll never forget how good I felt after we performed.”

The Day of Theatre achieved its goal of fostering a stronger creative community, building connections across grade levels and giving students a meaningful, handson theatrical experience.

STEP RIGHT UP

Ringling reinvents the Big Top

By Abbey Salvemini

Get ready to cheer, dance and gasp — the legendary Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus is back, and it’s dazzling audiences in ways few could have imagined. The self-proclaimed “Greatest Show on Earth” has been boldly reimagined for a new generation, bringing a high-voltage spectacle to UBS Arena from March 6 through March 8.

This is not the circus of decades past. Gone are the traditional three rings and animal acts; in their place is a fast-paced, immersive experience that blends worldclass acrobatics, cutting-edge choreography, live music and vibrant storytelling. The arena transforms into a colorful celebration that feels as much like a concert and dance party as a circus performance.

The energy begins the moment everyone walks through the doors. An interactive pre-show sets the tone, introducing audiences to the dynamic Ringling Hype Crew — a lively cast of dancers and performers who invite everyone to move, clap and join in the fun. Before the first aerialist soars or the first stunt takes flight, the crowd is already part of the action.

At its heart are the performers.

• Friday March 6, 7 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, March 7-8, 11 a.m., 3 p.m., 7 p.m.

• Tickets start at $39.35, $20 kids tickets for all performances; available at ticketmaster.com

• UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont

The 65-person cast, representing 17 countries, is a truly international ensemble that fuses time-honored circus traditions with bold, contemporary feats. Among the most buzzed-about moments is the crisscross trapeze act, in which elite aerialists launch themselves along intersecting flight paths, slicing through the air in breathtaking near-misses that leave audiences holding their collective breath.

The stars of this new incarnation of circus include 33-year-old trapeze artist Miles Postlethwait. He grew up in Florida, attending Ringling shows (and Disney on Ice). Caught up in the spectacle, he in love with trapeze at age 10. A trapeze performer for 10 years (six professionally), he landed at Ringling in November.

Recalling his early circus memories: “I remember going to see Ringling Bros when I was very young. Honestly, what I remember most was the toys (specifically the dragon sword) and the cotton candy. But my mom tells me I was enamored with the acrobats.”

That fascination stuck, leading him to his tour “home” and what’s now billed as “The Greatest Party On Earth,” according to the Ringling mantra.

“Who wouldn’t want to be a part of The Greatest Show On Earth? I saw the previous tour multiple times and loved the show. It’s nonstop fun because you’re part of the show the whole time, interacting with other performers and the audience,” Postlethwait says.

The vibe is fueled by today’s cultural influences — reimagined through the lens of pop culture, concerts and festivals.

Back to the aforementioned trapeze stunt, he points out that the crisscross rig is unique and requires intense precision, but years of training make the nearmisses almost instinctive.

“It keeps me on my toes, and the crowd’s reaction

STEPPING OUT

A 150-year tradition leaps into the future as the reimagined spectacle delivers fresh thrills, bold artistry and gravity-defying feats that redefine the modern

is incredible.”

The thrills keep on coming. Other highlights include the Double Wheel of Destiny, in which four daredevils leap and jump rope on spinning wheels.

A Chinese acrobatic bicycle act, created exclusively for Ringling, features gravity-defying human pyramids and fearless athleticism, with one acrobat running across the backs of nine moving bike riders. Salsa Colombia, a fiery dance and acrobatics troupe, brings the energy of Latin rhythms to the arena floor. And audiences are fascinated by Cam, a content creator and unicycle rider, who stacks up to 25 wheels towering nearly 35 feet high. Also watch out for Bailey the Robo Pup, a high-tech canine character and PT (Party Time), Ringling’s first-ever hype character, who keeps the crowd engaged and amplifies the celebratory atmosphere.

Giant LED screens and cameras capture acrobats from impossible angles, giving every seat the feel of front-row access.

Music powers the show. A DJ spins everything from hip-hop to Latin beats, driving the action from start to finish, with beat drops, live drumming and dance battles.

Those in the audience are not just spectators — they’re all in. Kids are drawn into onstage interactions, while the LED screens highlight stunts from content creator Cam, adding an extra layer of excitement. From split-second trapeze timing to jaw-dropping acrobatics, the spectacle keeps everyone on the edge of their seats while leaving lasting memories for all involved. The result is a full-on celebration with a festival-style energy that transforms classic circus elements.

Postlethwait sums it up simply: “It’s a super fun, energetic party. Families come and say everybody had a blast. It’s a show where kids aren’t just watching — they’re a part of the action.”

Perhaps most importantly, according to Postlethwait, the spectacle inspires young audiences to dream big.

“I hope they see that anything is possible. Circus acts show that humans’ limits go so much further than we think.”

Whether you’re in it for the stunts, the music or the interactive fun, this version of “The Greatest Show On Earth” promises something for everyone. Experience firsthand why Ringling Bros. has thrilled audiences for generations — now with a fresh, modern twist that makes the circus feel entirely new.

Jessie’s Girl

Drag out that neon once again and give your hair its best ‘80s ‘do. Those crazy days are back — as only Jessie’s Girl can pull off, on the Paramount stage. The band of NYC’s top rock/pop musicians and singers gets everyone into that “Back To The Eighties” vibe with the latest edition of their popular concert experience. With a lineup including four pop-rock vocalists dressing and performing as 80s icons, backed by a dynamic band, this is the definitive ‘80s experience. Jessie’s Girl’s primary line-up includes a team of NYC’s top rock and pop vocalists: Jenna O’Gara, Jerome Bell-Bastien, and Mark Rinzel. They are backed by one of the tightest bands in the city comprised of 20+ year veterans of the NYC music scene, each with dozens of credits performing with authentic ‘80s icons who made the music famous to begin with! Their motto: There’s no decade like the Eighties and no party like Back To The Eighties with Jessie’s Girl.

Friday, March 6, 8 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

South Shore Symphony welcomes Jane Monheit

With a voice radiating warmth, refinement and emotional depth, jazz vocalist Jane Monheit brings her celebrated interpretations of Great American Songbook classics to the Madison Theatre in a special collaboration with the South Shore Symphony Orchestra. Renowned for breathing fresh life into beloved standards, she headlines an unforgettable afternoon, blending the intimacy of jazz with the grandeur of full orchestral sound. Under the baton of Music Director Adam Glaser, the South Shore Symphony accompanies her in a series of orchestral arrangements that highlight both her vocal artistry and the timeless beauty of these enduring songs. The program also offers audiences a more intimate jazz club feel, with Monheit backed by a trio, including Glaser on piano, for several selections.

Sunday, March 8, 3 p.m. Molloy University campus, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. Tickets available at madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

Mar 6

‘A

Midsummer Night’s

Dream’

Molloy University’s CAP21 Musical Theatre students tackle Shakespeare. The Bard’s beloved comedy is a magical tale that explores the irrationality of love, desire, friendship, jealousy and magic. When the mortal worlds of four young lovers and a bungling group of amateur actors collide with a feuding fairy kingdom in a mystical forest on a midsummer eve, romantic misadventures ensue, causing chaos that only a bit of fairy magic can sort out.

• Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre

• Time: 8 p.m.; also March 7, 2 and 8 p.m.; March 8, 3 p.m.

• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444

Family theater

Long Island Children’s Museum stages “Pete the Cat,” the charming musical based on the book series by Kimberly and James Dean. Life is certainly an adventure for Pete, no matter where he winds up. So the minute the groovy blue cat meets The Biddles, he gets the whole family rocking. That is, except for young Jimmy Biddle, the most organized second grader on planet Earth. But when Jimmy draws a blank in art class during the last week of school, it turns out Pete is the perfect pal to help him out. Together, they set out on a mission to help Jimmy conquer second grade art, and along the way, they both learn a little something new about inspiration. $11 with museum admission ($9 members), $15 theater only.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: 10:15 a.m. and noon; also March 7, March 11-12

• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

Mar 7

Professional Championship Bull Riders

Buckle up — ’cause you ain’t seen nothin’ like this before. The PCB has been a full-throttle tour de force: a mano-a-toro showdown where the toughest cowboys on the planet face off against the rankest bulls in the game. May the boldest rider win. And it’s not just the cowboys. Watch the cowgirls blaze through barrel racing, showcasing speed, agility and sheer determination in a race for the fastest times.

• Where: Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com

Celtic Woman

Mar 15

The Grammy-nominated global sensation returns to the stage with their highly anticipated new tour, Celtic Woman — A New Era. Featuring the mesmerizing talents of Mairéad Carlin, Muirgen O’Mahony, Ciara Ní Mhurchú, and the dynamic new addition Caitríona Sherlock, this production fuses the ensemble’s signature ethereal harmonies with innovative orchestrations, captivating stagecraft, and a contemporary energy that honors Ireland’s rich musical and cultural legacy while embracing Celtic Woman’s ongoing evolution. Audiences will be transported on a spellbinding journey through Irish music, from timeless classics to stirring original compositions. The evening promises breathtaking vocal performances, intricate instrumental mastery, and the rhythmic grace of traditional Irish dance. Accompanied by a full ensemble, the performers bring to life Celtic staples — including the bagpipe, bodhrán, tin whistles, and Uilleann pipes — creating a lush and immersive soundscape that resonates with both tradition and modernity. From evocative Irish ballads and contemporary favorites to classical masterpieces and fresh original songs, their tour celebrates the vibrancy of modern Ireland while paying tribute to centuries of musical heritage. It is a concert experience that blends elegance, passion, and cultural storytelling, offering audiences an unforgettable evening of artistry, energy and enchantment.

• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

• Where: Madison Theatre, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444

Candlelight

Mar

Celtic Bask in the ambience of soft-glowing candles and Irish melodies in this intimate evening performance on the Adelphi University stage. Surrounded by the soft, warm glow of over 1,000 candles, world champion Irish dancer Scott Doherty and Irish musician Chris Smith, along with their band, bring classic Irish tunes, songs, and stories to life. You’ll be immersed in a one-ofa-kind enchanting atmosphere, filled with the soul-stirring melodies of Ireland, as the beauty of Irish music and the intimacy of candlelight come together in perfect harmony.

Climate Change: How To Help Our Planet

Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes families with kids ages 6-10 to explore how climate change impacts our environment and learn ways both scientists and families can help protect it. These workshops are part of a scientific study surrounding climate education.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 1:30-2:30 p.m.

• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

Larson Legacy Concert

Acclaimed composer and 2025 Jonathan Larson Grant recipient Dylan MarcAurele performs at Adelphi University Performing Arts Center continuing Adelphi’s tradition of showcasing emerging musical theater. talents. MarcAurele, recognized for his innovative contributions to the genre, performs selections from his current projects, including the critically acclaimed musical “Pop Off, Michelangelo!” that recently enjoyed a successful London run. His concert is a cabaret-style showcase of music from past and future productions (including his upcoming parody

musical “Heated Rivalry” that sold out performances in a matter of hours). Joining him are Taylor Fagins, Mateo Chavez Lewis, and Yael Rizowy.

• Where: Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City

• Time: 3 p.m.

• Contact: adelphi.edu/pac or (516) 877-4000

Jane Monheit in concert

Acclaimed jazz vocalist Jane Monheit joins the South Shore Symphony for their next concert. Monheit’s signature warm, expressive sound enhances the lush orchestral arrangements. Known for her elegant interpretations of jazz standards and contemporary classics, she brings her rich vocals to the symphonic stage for a performance that blends jazz sophistication with the power of a full orchestra.

• Where: 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre

• Time: 3 p.m.

• Contact: madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444

Advokids: Women’s History Month

Long Island Children’s Museum welcomes families to join the AdvoKids to learn about Long Island native Sue Wicks, a former professional basketball player for New York Liberty, WNBA legend turned kelp farmer! Kelp makes for a healthier ocean environment and helps oysters thrive. Visitors create beautiful ocean scenery filled with kelp. For ages 5+.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

Mar

An intimate chat with Valerie Bertinelli Long Island LitFest hosts an appearance by the actress-turned-author on her book tour, at the Madison Theatre. Moderated by Paulina Porizkova, Bertinelli’s most vulnerable book yet, “Getting Naked,” offers wisdom hard-won through divorce, menopause and generational pain, with a powerful message of self-acceptance and embracing the past with compassion. Each ticket includes a signed copy.

• Where: Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: adelphi.edu/pac or (516) 877-4000

Mar

27

Supermarket Bingo

Valley Stream North PTSA hosts Supermarket Bingo. Join in the fun for supermarket-themed prizes, raffle and door prizes, a 50/50 drawing and more. $15 at the door or $12 in advance at northptsa.givebacks. com/store/items/.

• Where: 750 Herman Ave.

• Contact: (646) 874-1717

14 aPr

16

Taste of Valley Stream

Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce hosts the community-wide food festival at VFW Post 1790.Check out the local vendors. Three Valley Stream food pantries are honored for their work addressing food insecurity. $75 or $65 with early-bird pricing through March 16.

• Where: 65 E. Merrick Road

• Time: 6-9 p.m.

• Contact: valleystreamchamber.org

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.

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC, -againstARTHUR J. TEICHBERG, 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 August 22, 2018, wherein NATIONSTAR

MORTGAGE LLC is the Plaintiff and ARTHUR J. TEICHBERG, 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 March 16, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 4 VALLEY LANE NORTH, VALLEY STREAM, NY 11581; and the following tax map identification: 39-621-14. 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 Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 002388/2015. John M. McFaul, 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. 158364

Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

NASSAU COUNTY CITIMORTGAGE, INC., Plaintiff against SHARIQ M. MAJEED, et al Defendant(s)

Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Stern & Eisenberg, P.C., 20 Commerce Drive, Suite 230, Cranford, NJ 07016 and 1131 Route 55, Suite 1, Lagrangeville, NY 12540.

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered July 26, 2024, 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 March 17, 2026 at 2:00 PM. Premises known as 96 Brentwood Lane, Valley Stream, NY 11581. Sec 39 Block 525 Lot 13. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Approximate Amount of Judgment is $750,454.63 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 607408/2023. For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. During the COVID-19 health emergency, Bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of the sale including but not limited to wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Should a bidder fail to comply, the Referee may refuse to accept any bid, cancel the closing and hold the bidder in default. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Brian J. Davis, Esq., Referee File # NY202200000810-1 158362

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, STATE OF NEW YORK MORTGAGE AGENCY (SONYMA), Plaintiff, vs. MARVIN DARIUS, Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on December 8, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 18, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 21 North Montague 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, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37, Block 221 and Lot 10-12. Approximate amount of judgment is $598,329.41 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 620598/2024. Cash will not be accepted.

Jared A. Kasschau, Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 158356

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS DELAWARE TRUSTEE OF SMRF TRUST II-A, Plaintiff, vs. WILSON SR., LLC, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on January 5, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on March 27, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 66 Wilson Road, Valley Stream, NY 11581 a/k/a 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 39, Block 468 and Lot 7. Approximate amount of judgment is $605,322.21 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 612154/2023.

Lisa B. Singer, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 230908-1 158596

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC D/B/A CHAMPION MORTGAGE COMPANY, Plaintiff, Against CAROLYN J. ANDERSON A/K/A CAROLYN ANDERSON, et al, Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 08/27/2019, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on 4/1/2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 111 South Drive, Valley Stream, New York 11581, and described as follows: 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 39 Block 409-06 Lot 102

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $494,051.08 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 13-014284

If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed

Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine. Dominic A. Villoni, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573

Dated: 1/28/2026 File Number: 548-0111 CA 158598

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee, for Carrington Home Equity Loan Trust, Series 2005-NC4 Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Plaintiff AGAINST

Nicolas Carpio a/k/a Nicholas Carpio; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered December 17, 2013, 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 March 31,2026, at 2:00PM, premises known as 2 Fulton Place, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 37 Block N Lots 676 & 677. Approximate amount of judgment $435,801.19 plus interest and costs. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Judith L Powell, Esq., Referee 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: January 30, 2026 158600

LEGAL NOTICE

REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., Plaintiff - against - JEAN M. PETION, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale

entered on October 17, 2016. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on the 26th day of March, 2026 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Valley Stream, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York.

Premises known as 1630 Arkansas Dr., Valley Stream, NY 11580-1806.

(Section: 37, Block: 670, Lot: 28)

Approximate amount of lien $848,367.70 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 000588/2012. Wayne Henry Wink, Jr., Esq., Referee. Stein, Wiener & Roth LLP

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 1400 Old Country Road, Suite 315 Westbury, NY 11590 Tel. 516-742-1212

PETION-69123

For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832

Dated: December 29, 2025

During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. Auction Locations are subject to change. 158535

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff AGAINST KEVIN VALENTINE, JAMISE VALENTINE, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant

to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered November 21, 2024, 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 April 1, 2026 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 106 Munro Boulevard, 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, in the County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 39 Block 58 Lot 4. Approximate amount of judgment $597,704.86 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #606687/2023. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832.

William J. Garry, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 23-000429 88843 158543

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

LEGAL NOTICE Incorporated Village of Valley Stream Office of the Village Clerk/Administrator 123 South Central Avenue Valley Stream New York 11580 (516) 592-5105

LEGAL NOTICE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution and the provisions of the Village Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, as amended, a Public Hearing was held on Monday the 23rd day of February, 2026 at 7:00 o’clock p.m. due to inclement weather only on Zoom, https://us02web.zoom. us/j/7148140969 at which time the following Local Law was adopted: LOCAL LAW 1- 2026A LOCAL LAW AMENDING CHAPTER 99 OF THE VILLAGE CODE ENTITLED “ZONING” BY AMENDING §§99-202 and 99-3001. The local law makes amendments to Chapter 99 of the Code of the Village of Valley Stream entitled “Zoning” in order to regulate the instances of basement apartments and ingresses/egresses thereto. The local law is on file in the Office of the Village Clerk, in the Village Hall of said Village of Valley Stream, where it may be inspected on regular business days between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Dated: Valley Stream, New York March 5, 2026 By Order of the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream JAMES J. HUNTER Village Clerk/Administrator 158708

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, PACIFIC ASSET HOLDINGS, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. APOGEE CONSORTIUM GROUP LLC, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on August 14, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 1, 2026 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 1096 Marc Drive, Valley Stream, NY 11581 a/k/a 11580. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being near Valley Stream, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 39, Block 512 and Lot 16. Approximate amount of judgment is $620,323.15 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #614970/2024. Jane Pastor Shrenkel, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 241746-1 158594

District 13 celebrates P.S. I Love You Day

Valley Stream UFSD 13 joined schools across the county in celebrating P.S. I Love You Day, a special day dedicated to spreading kindness, positivity and connection throughout the school community.

This year’s theme, “Be the Light,” encouraged students and staff to shine brightly through words and actions that uplift others. Schools organized activities focused on promoting compassion, unity and understanding as part of the observance.

At Willow Road Elementary School, a symbolic lighthouse display was featured along the school’s main hallway. Representing hope and guidance, the lighthouse served as a reminder that everyone can make a positive difference. Students also wrote messages of encouragement and kindness on purple paper hearts, which were placed around the school to create a visual representation of support and positivity.

Through the celebration, the district reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive and supportive environment where every student feels valued, connected and empowered to “be the light” for those around them.

— Angelina Zingariello

words and actions that uplift others.

LEGAL

OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 21-2026 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal

Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held on the 24th day of February 2026, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 21-2026, and following the close

of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 21-2026, to amend Section 202-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include and repeal “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at various locations. Dated: February 24,

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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

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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

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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

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Valley Stream Subaru Monday-Friday, 9AM-5PM Answer Phones, Light Clerical $17.00/Hour, Benefits, 401K Call Therese 516-825-8700

Vision Health Coordinator – Franklin Sq.,

Hudson Steals the Show

Taking a contractor to court

Q. We are suing our contractor and need some advice. A year ago, we finished our second-floor addon and first-floor kitchen and rear family room remodel by opening up walls to join them. Everything seemed fine until it rained the first time. The windows began to leak at the bottom, and then around the tops and sides. Our new sliding glass door did the same. The basement flooded, and we are not in a flood area. Then the air-conditioning company said somebody disconnected the ducts, and when we opened the ceilings, more water poured down. The house is now filled with mold, which we clean with bleach where we can get to it, but we couldn’t move out and have two small children under age 4.

Although we have many questions and hired an attorney, we’re wondering whether we should hire an architect to go over all the problems and identify them, with remedies, or hire one of the contractors who said they could fix the problems, or wait until the lawsuit is finished to make it possible for a jury to see the damage. The job architect, whom we never met, has now had their license revoked for the next two years, but we wouldn’t go to them, anyway.

A. Ugh! This is more common than you would think. It starts with not having the architect working for you and instead working for the contractor. I can guess that the contractor was contacted first, and you hired them to get their architect and provide plans. That was your first mistake.

Next, people are lazy, expecting that anyone they hire knows all the best techniques to build and knows all the rules, codes and laws. That was mistake number two. Even though you hire people, you should have gone over critical details, especially about waterproofing and structural techniques on the plans, to make sure that the building owner looks for those steps to be carried out. You, the building owner, I always say, are the “eyes and ears” on the job, since the architect often isn’t there at critical times, when waterproofing membranes and materials are joined.

Mistake number three was not doing a water test with a garden hose when the finish siding, windows roofing, etc., had been applied. Simulating rain by pointing a hose skyward so that the water cascades down — not a direct fire-hose hit — tells you right away if something is failing.

You’re going to need a licensed expert — an architect or an engineer — to work with your attorney. Document everything with videos during simulated or storm events to show the water coming in and whatever other failures, such as leaking and disconnected air ducts, and hire people who can do the job correctly as soon as you can. You need to have a healthy home for your family, and a lawsuit could take years while you possibly get sick from the mold and the chlorine you’re breathing. Good luck!

© 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.

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Article XII, section 1205 of the Nassau County Charter makes it clear: “It shall be the duty of the county Department of Public Works as a county charge to remove snow as rapidly as may be from all county highways and county roads within or without any city or village.”

So too does Chapter 67, Section 3 of Hempstead Town Code: “The Superintendent of Highways shall be responsible for the removal of snow from any and all specified areas, together with all Town parking fields, and shall have the right, subject to the approval of and financing by the Town Board, to hire personnel for such purposes and to provide for the supervision of such personnel.”

The directives are clear and straightforward, but as we know all too well in a hyper-partisan age of government, their execution is not always that simple.

After the Jan. 24-25 winter storm dumped nearly a foot of snow, sleet and

The politics of snow removal

ice on our region, I took to the roads of Legislative District 3, and saw a significant difference in how Town of Hempstead roads were plowed. Take a look at the videos on my social media pages and you’ll see how Franklin Square’s roads were cleared more promptly than comparable residential roads in Elmont.

i

These communities pay taxes to the same township for the same services. Their roads aren’t used just by Democrats or Republicans — they’re roads everybody relies on. So why was there such a noticeable disparity in services?

the same county as other areas that were better served. Democrats and Republicans use this road and rely on the sidewalks to cross the overpass. What, then, is the common thread?

n a hyperpartisan era of government, the execution isn’t always that simple.

Then there is the Woodfield Road overpass on the Southern State Parkway, an essential county road serving the communities of Lakeview and West Hempstead. Five days after the storm, an adjoining sidewalk remained untouched, forcing pedestrians to walk in the heavily traveled main road. With icy conditions directly adjoining, people were taking their lives in their hands every time they walked this path. Again, Lakeview and West Hempstead taxpayers send their payments to

NSnow removal should never be political, but in this case I can’t overlook the fact that the areas in District 3 that seemed to be neglected are bases of Democratic registration — and the areas that were cleared faster are in areas of traditional Republican strength. At present, the Hempstead Town Board is controlled by a 6-1 Republican supermajority, and county government is dominated by County Executive Bruce Blakeman, whose hyper-partisan approach to governance is well documented.

Faced with urgent needs, I felt there was no choice but to take matters into my own hands. I used my social media platforms to call out the Town of Hempstead’s inaction, communicate with constituents to identify trouble areas, and demand an equitable, prompt response from the town. In Lakeview, with traffic control assistance from the auxiliary

police, I joined a group of volunteers in clearing the Woodfield Road walkway. Public shame seemed to do the trick in this case: The following day, Blakeman dispatched County DPW resources to Woodfield Road at long last, and they cleared the sidewalk.

Let me be clear: I don’t fault the hardworking men and women at the town and county DPWs who toiled day and night to clear the snow after that first major winter storm. Their efforts were deeply appreciated, and their hard work must not go unnoticed. I just wish that, for residents in every corner of our town, there were more thorough preparation so that those workers could be better deployed by their superiors and the elected officials who are ultimately responsible for results.

We are in a La Niña cycle, and that means bitter cold and significant snow will likely be with us for the remainder of this winter season. It is incumbent on all of us to apply the lessons we learned during the January storm to achieve better results for all of Nassau County’s communities — and to take the politics out of the delivery of this most basic and essential service.

Carrié Solages represents Nassau County’s 3rd Legislative District.

Powering New York shouldn’t break the bank

ew Yorkers don’t need another study to tell them their energy bills are too high. They see it every month when the statement arrives. As affordability remains at the forefront of the conversation in Albany, families are still waiting for real answers about one of the biggest drivers of their financial strain: soaring utility costs. As of November 2025, residential electricity prices in New York are 49 percent higher than the national average, placing yet another burden on families, seniors and small businesses already stretched thin.

I support building a cleaner, more reliable energy grid for future generations. Responsible environmental stewardship and longterm sustainability are important goals, but the state’s current approach risks creating a system that our children and grandchildren simply won’t be able to afford. Instead of keeping families here and strengthening our communities, we may be pricing them out of the state. Mandates such as the All-Electric

Buildings Act are accelerating costly transitions before many New Yorkers are financially prepared to absorb them. While well intentioned, these policies often shift significant costs onto homeowners, renters and small businesses. The result is higher construction costs, rents and home prices, adding fuel to an affordability crisis that is already out of control. When policy moves faster than people’s ability to pay for it, the consequences are real and immediate.

reserve those funds for future use. But New York families are struggling to pay their bills today.

We’re making costly transitions before many of us can afford them.

My colleagues in the Senate Republican conference and I have consistently raised concerns that current energy policies are driving costs up rather than bringing them down. With our Save New York legislative package, we have put forward a broad array of concrete proposals that would lower utility bills, improve oversight and restore affordability for working families.

The 2025 Financial Plan released by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority shows more than $2 billion in unspent ratepayer funds at the end of the year. During the Joint Budget Hearing on Energy and Environmental Conservation, NYSERDA leadership indicated that it plans to

While those dollars remain unspent, ratepayers continue to shoulder rising costs. Senate Bill S.8461, which I am proud to cosponsor, would require that any excess funds be returned to ratepayers as credits on their utility bills. This would put money back into residents’ pockets now, when they need relief the most. Additionally, just as the Senate Republican conference led the successful charge to bring a gas tax holiday to New York in 2022, when prices at the pump were soaring out of control, we are championing a similar holiday on utility bill and green energy taxes and surcharges. These are simple steps the state can take to deliver an immediate financial lifeline to New Yorkers. Accountability must accompany policy. We must not only ensure that excess funds are returned to our residents, but also demand full transparency about what is driving monthly utility costs. As the sponsor of legislation requiring utilities to itemize how much of each bill is tied to mandates from the Climate Action Council scoping plan, I believe ratepayers deserve to see exactly where

their money is going. If Albany is going to impose or propose sweeping energy policies, it should be upfront about the price so New Yorkers can decide which initiatives are worth it.

I am also proud to cosponsor another piece of legislation to prevent costs from spiraling further out of control. The AllElectric Buildings Act would drive up the cost of building new housing, and would jeopardize grid reliability by shifting the state to a winter peaking system as homes are forced to rely on electricity, rather than natural gas, for heat. While New York’s gas and electric prices have historically been higher than the national average, electric prices in particular have risen further above the national average since 2019, whereas natural gas prices are more closely aligned with the nation. That’s why I cosponsor legislation to repeal the All-Electric Buildings Act so that New Yorkers have the option to utilize cheaper natural gas.

Taken together, these proposals reflect a clear conclusion: New York’s current energy policies are driving costs higher, and require meaningful reform. The solutions are already on the table. It’s time to act. For too long, residents have carried the burden, and their calls for fairness, transparency and affordability must be heard.

Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick represents the 9th State Senate District.

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Sunshine week keeps democracy in the light

every March we observe Sunshine Week, a national initiative dedicated to one of democracy’s most powerful disinfectants: light. This year, Sunshine Week will be celebrated March 15 to 21, anchored by Freedom of Information Day on March 16, the birthday of James Madison. The timing is symbolic and significant. Sunshine Week reminds us that open government is not a luxury. It is a necessity.

Launched in 2005 and rooted in the pioneering 1972 Colorado Sunshine Act, Sunshine Week was created to raise awareness of the public’s right to know. At its core is a simple but profound idea: Democracy works best when the people can see what their government is doing. Transparency is not about satisfying curiosity, it’s about accountability, trust and ensuring that power remains where it belongs: with the citizens.

Sunshine Week’s foundation is the principle that government records and proceedings belong to the public. Taxpayer dollars fund government operations; therefore, the public has both a legal and moral right to understand how decisions are made and how money is spent.

Freedom of Information laws at the federal and state levels give citizens access to public documents, from village board minutes to federal agency communications. But these laws are only as strong as the public’s willingness to use them. Like muscles, transparency laws weaken without exercise. When citizens

stop requesting records, attending meetings and asking questions, secrecy grows stronger.

Open meetings and public records are not bureaucratic technicalities; they are the mechanisms that keep democracy breathing. Transparency reveals how taxpayers’ money is spent, how contracts are awarded and how policies are shaped. It enables watchdog groups, journalists and everyday citizens to trace decisions from proposal to outcome.

Without openness, the risk of waste, fraud and abuse increases. History repeatedly shows that secrecy breeds complacency and, at times, corruption. Open government, by contrast, ensures that decisions must withstand scrutiny. It does not weaken institutions — it strengthens them. Sunshine Week underscores a critical truth: When the public can see the process, officials are more likely to act responsibly.

In times of crisis — economic downturns, national security challenges or public health emergencies — secrecy often expands. Officials may argue that swift action requires less oversight. While emergencies can justify temporary discretion, they must never become permanent excuses for opacity.

Democracy demands vigilance. Sunshine Week serves as an annual reminder that transparency must be defended, especially when it feels inconvenient. Freedom of information cannot be indefinitely sidelined without eroding public trust.

Supporting Sunshine Week means protecting democracy itself. Openness prevents the concentration of unchecked power and ensures that elected officials remain responsive to citizens rather than to special interests.

Transparency helps parents question school board policies, residents examine zoning proposals and taxpayers track infrastructure spending. It provides communities with the tools to advocate for fair and effective governance.

It also allows us, as journalists, to do our jobs. We rely on open-records laws to uncover stories about misuse of funds, conflicts of interest and public safety failures. It’s why studies show that the presence of a local newspaper in a community mitigates waste, fraud and abuse.

Public trust in government is fragile. One of the most effective ways to build and sustain that trust is through transparency. When agencies proactively release information and conduct business in public view, suspicion diminishes.

Transparency does not guarantee agreement. Citizens, and government officials, may still debate policies and priorities. But openness fosters understanding, and understanding is the bedrock of trust.

So this Sunshine Week, take a moment to reflect on the importance of open meetings and public records. And vow to step up whenever someone tries to turn off the light of transparency.

It’s ‘the power of the state against the people of the nation’

To the Editor:

Re Peter King’s column, “There are better ways to resolve the immigration crisis,” in the Feb. 12-18 issue: Immigration is a problem, but Immigration and Customs Enforcement exemplifies the real, much larger crisis. Immigration is a longstanding issue, and many “better ways” have been proposed over the past 30 years, as Mr. King knows. In fact, one such proposal was on track for bipartisan approval last year until President Trump and his allies killed it. ICE has operated for decades with little notice. Violence was seldom used, citizens were not arrested, and habeas corpus was observed — until Trump. The Border Patrol previously confined its racist brutality close to the Mexican border, until Republicans expanded the “border” to a 100-mile-wide

On

the heels of a local anniversary, a national one

Iwant to start by thanking all of our residents, employees and visitors for what turned out to be a grand and successful centennial celebration for the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream. Our 100th anniversary year of 2025 truly celebrated where we came from, where we are today and where we are headed, going into the future as a strong and united community.

Moving forward, July 4, 2026, will marks our nation’s 250th birthday. Certainly this is a milestone for independence and democracy. The United States of America has always been a diverse, multicultural nation of hardworking people who came here for a better life. Of course we are a nation of immigrants, a very diverse as well as a very blended country.

Letters

The earliest use of the term “melting pot” dates back to the 1780s, as a phrase we associate with the cultural integration of multiple cultures into one society — without expecting the traditions of any one culture to be ignored. Quite the opposite: Traditions are passed down and celebrated from generation to generation, preserving the heritage of their ancestors. There are dozens of examples of cultural and religious celebrations, from St. Patrick’s Day, Little Italy’s Feast of San Gennaro and Chinese new year to Cinco De Mayo, Oktoberfest, Black History Month, Haitian Heritage Month and Ed al-Fitr, to name just a few. Food, of course, is a big part of every celebration, and family meals take on the great flavors of our ancestors.

I

from. you would expect that you go to a new country to become a part of that country, not to change it to the country from which you came.

n July we’ll celebrate 250 years of a nation that’s all about immigrants.

I have visited many parts of this great country as well as many countries abroad. I have enjoyed all of my travels throughout the U.S., and never once did I try to make great cities more like those I knew. The same can be said for my travels overseas. I had a passport and travel visas, I loved the scenery and cultures, but I was also expected to follow the laws of their lands and leave before my visa expired. Why would you expect to stay in a country illegally, or change its laws to suit your unique background? We must try to follow the laws of the land, and live as one united nation.

difficulties and tragedies. As a lover of history, I’m always trying to learn more by studying our past. It’s pretty obvious that we haven’t had much peace. In fact, less than 20 total years of America’s existence has been peaceful. Some 93 percent of our history has been affected by conflicts and war, both domestically and globally.

Still, most of us believe that the United States is the best place in the world to live, despite its flaws. To quote an old adage, “Freedom is never free.” We enjoy our freedom, but it definitely comes at a great price. We defend and fight for our way of life all the time. While that sounds like a lot of adversity, it allows us to grow, learn and, yes, survive as the Founding Fathers envisioned.

All of these groups of immigrants did their best to learn the language, traditions and values of these United States, but becoming American citizens did not diminish where they came

zone. Even then, cities were not invaded — not even El Paso or Brownsville, much less Portland or Milwaukee — until Trump.

The Department of Homeland Security pursued its intended mission: defending against 9/11 or Beirut- and Benghazi-style attacks by foreign terrorists, seldom making the news. Then Trump decided that the homeland itself — Chicago, Los Angeles, Springfield, Ill. — was the “enemy within,” rife with “domestic terrorists” like Alex Pretti, who must be prevented from voting. Meanwhile, Trump allied himself with Saudi Arabian interests, the major sources of the 9/11 and other “homeland” assaults. Remember Jamal Khashoggi.

The FBI, formerly our premier law enforcement agency, is now Trumpified, refusing to investigate homicides by federal agents, interfering with state ballots, arresting journalists and charging members of Congress with sedition. In earlier times, Peter King himself might have been among those in such felonious jeopardy. The depth, breadth and pervasiveness of corruption in all of this is obvious, with beneficiaries openly paying well for more of this new form of republican government — modeled on ancient Rome’s republic of patricians and plebes, paterfamilias all.

Our government is using the power of the state against the people of the nation. That is the crisis. Currently, the best — and perhaps only — way to resolve both the crisis and the problem is to end MAGA’s abuse of government, from Blakeman and Garbarino to Vance and Trump.

BRIAn KELLy Rockville Centre

We know, however, that different cultures, economic conditions, traditions and forms of government have led to a great deal of adversity. Sadly, these past 250 years have been filled with many

Framework by Tim Baker

So, this July Fourth, we must continue to strive, individually and as a nation to get along, to help one another, to follow laws or to petition to have them changed, as we keep and defend our rights as U.S. citizens. Let’s celebrate, not destroy what has survived 250 years.

Ed Fare is the mayor of Valley Stream.