Valley Stream Herald 03-19-2026

VALLEY STREAM

HERALD

Girls run the world at Green Acres

Green Acres Mall hosted a Women’s History Month celebration last Saturday, recognizing local women leaders while offering beauty demonstrations and community activities. The event, held in front of Macy’s, featured master classes and demonstrations from Estée Lauder, MAC and Lancôme, along with complimentary headshots, giveaways and meet-and-greet opportunities with representatives of Miss Long Island Pageants. During the event, local elected officials also recognized several women for their leadership, military service and contributions to their communities. Story, more photos, Page 10.

V.S. author releases new children’s book

By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com

A Valley Stream resident is adding another title to her growing list of accomplishments through children’s literature.

Anastasia Difino, who has lived in Valley Stream for more than a decade, recently released her second self-published children’s book, “The Dare Book,” on Feb. 26. The project reflects both her professional experience as an educator and her personal life as a parent.

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Difino, of Greek American heritage, grew up in Queens but moved to Valley Stream with her husband, Joe, who was raised in the community. The couple is raising their two sons, Frankie and Peter, there alongside extended family members who also reside locally. Difino said the strong family connections and sense of community were major reasons they chose to remain in the village after getting married.

a 13-year educator in Queens. She teaches fifth grade and, for the past three years, served as a literacy coach at the elementary school, where she supports teachers with reading instruction and works with students who struggle with literacy.

“I was always a reader and a writer,” Difino said. “I always wanted to write something. I was very into poetry growing up, but being in schools, getting so into children’s books and having my own boys, drove me to think I should write children’s books.”

ids need brain breaks. They need a pause; they need a timeout. Let them be a kid.

ANAstAsIA DIfINO Author, “The Dare Book”

Her first children’s book, “On the Bright Side,” was released in 2023 after she began writing it during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021. The story emerged from conversations she had with students who asked difficult questions about the world around them. The book focuses on encouraging children to look for positivity and goodness even during challenging moments. Her newest book builds on

Outside of writing, Difino is

Continued on page 7

Wheeler Avenue marks ‘No One Eats Alone Day’

Students at Wheeler Avenue Elementary School participated in “No One Eats Alone Day,” a national initiative aimed at promoting inclusion, kindness and a stronger sense of community among students.

Each year, millions of students in grades five through eight from thousands of schools across the country take part in the event. The occasion encourages students to reach out to their peers, sit with someone new during lunch and help

ensure that no one feels left out.

At Wheeler Avenue, students embraced the spirit of the day by making a conscious effort to include others, start new conversations and build new friendships. The initiative also gave students an opportunity to reflect on the importance of empathy, respect and making everyone feel welcome.

By participating in “No One Eats Alone Day,” Wheeler Avenue students helped create a positive and supportive environment

where every student feels they belong. The event reinforced the school’s ongoing commitment to fostering kindness, acceptance and strong peer connections throughout the school community.

School staff praised the students for their enthusiasm and willingness to support one another, noting that small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact on building a caring school culture.

— Angelina Zingariello

At Wheeler Avenue Elementary School, students embraced the spirit of the day by making a conscious effort to include others, start new conversations and build new friendships.

Meet Central’s valedictorian and salutatorian

By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com

At Valley Stream Central High School, two seniors stand at the top of the Class of 2026 through years of hard work, perseverance and commitment to their school community.

Valedictorian Alishba Chaudhry and salutatorian Abdul Haseeb have distinguished themselves not only academically, but also through leadership, extracurricular involvement and a dedication to their future goals.

Assistant Principal Robert Milani said both students exemplify the values the school hopes to instill in its graduates. He noted that their academic schedules were filled with challenging Advanced Placement courses, which are college-level classes, and that their success reflects both their intelligence and determination.

“They have goals in mind,” Milani said. “I don’t want to say that everyone is college-focused, but certainly they are, and they’re very high achievers. I think a lot of our students, no matter where they are, work really hard to get to that point.”

Milani also emphasized that both students are respected by peers and teachers alike and represent what it means to be active members of the school community.

Alishba Chaudhry: Building toward excellence

At 17 years old, Alishba Chaudhry has built an academic record that places her at the top of a graduating class of 385 students, with a GPA of 111.30.

Her educational journey began at Clear Stream Avenue School, then continued at Memorial Junior High School and eventually at Central High School.

Throughout high school, Chaudhry became involved in a wide range of activities. She currently serves as president of the Muslim Student Association, where she has built a close community with fel-

low students while strengthening connections to her religion and culture. In addition to that leadership role, she is a member of several honor societies, including the National Honor Society as well as honor societies for math, science, history, English, music and world languages.

Her interests extend beyond academics. Chaudhry plays viola and has participated in the district music festival, which included a performance at Carnegie Hall. She also spent two years performing with a community orchestra. Outside the arts, she has played on the varsity badminton team and conducted research in biology with the chair of biology at Molloy University.

Chaudhry attributes her success largely to internal motivation and a mindset of continually pushing her limits. That drive helped her adapt when she first encountered the demands of AP coursework, which initially required her to learn new ways to manage her time and assignments.

“I felt like if I could achieve one thing, I wanted to go straight to the next thing,” Chaudhry said. “I just kept building and building to the point where I became valedictorian.”

Among her academic experiences, she highlighted her current AP chemistry class as particularly meaningful, describing it as a welcoming environment with a strong sense of community among students.

Chaudhry did not initially expect to be named valedictorian, making the recognition a surprise when it came. For her, the announcement represented the culmination of years of steady effort and commitment.

As she prepares for graduation, Chaudhry plans to attend college, majoring in biochemistry, before applying to medical school to become a doctor. While she has not yet committed to a university, she identified Stony Brook University as a top choice.

Reflecting on her high school experience, Chaudhry said she will miss the close-knit community she found there, particularly the opportunity to speak with teachers and build relationships in and out of class.

Abdul Haseeb: Turning challenges into motivation

Salutatorian Abdul Haseeb, also 17, followed a similar educational path through the Valley Stream school district. He attended Shaw Avenue School before moving on to Memorial Junior High School and ultimately Central High School.

Haseeb has a GPA of 111.040, placing him second in the class.

During high school, he became active in both athletics and leadership roles. He helped out with the student council and served as captain of the boys’ badminton team, which he joined when the program first started at the school. He also assists the coach with the girls’ badminton team and plans to try out for the tennis team, where he hopes to earn a spot and possibly serve as captain.

Outside of school, Haseeb volunteers at his local mosque and tutors physics.

His path to academic success was shaped by early challenges. As a younger student, he struggled with English and social studies and even attended special education classes in elementary school. Despite those difficulties, his brother consistently encouraged him and recognized his strength in mathematics, motivating him to pursue ambitious academic goals.

Haseeb said the doubts he encountered from others became another source of determination. Over time, he learned to devote extra hours to studying and to make changes in his routine.

“It’s something that other people didn’t need to do, but I understood that I needed to do that,” Haseeb said. “It was all just like a mental battle. Can I stay focused enough, or can I stay persistent? I think it

did come down to just being able to make small sacrifices, like dropping games for an hour.”

One of his most meaningful experiences at Central came through AP physics, a subject he had been interested in since childhood. He described the class as a collaborative environment where students supported one another and shared enthusiasm for the subject.

When he learned he had been named salutatorian, Haseeb initially felt disappointed because he had hoped to become valedictorian. However, conversations with family and friends helped him recognize the significance of the achievement. The accomplishment also represented a major improvement over earlier in high school, when he had been ranked 27th in his class and told that reaching the top rank would be difficult.

After graduation, Haseeb plans to pursue engineering, currently focusing on mechanical engineering, though he remains open to exploring different areas within the field. He has already been accepted to Stony Brook University and is waiting to hear decisions from several other universities, including Columbia University and Cornell University.

Looking back on high school, Haseeb said he will miss the friendships and connections he formed over the years, recognizing that many classmates will soon head in different directions as they begin their futures.

Looking ahead

For both Chaudhry and Haseeb, graduation marks the end of a significant chapter shaped by determination, community and years of academic dedication. As they prepare to deliver their graduation speeches and move on to college, their journeys reflect not only individual success but also the supportive environment that helped them reach the top of their class.

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Crime watCh

V.S. man arrested after officer injured during disturbance response

A Valley Stream man was arrested after an officer was injured while responding to a disturbance call, according to Nassau County police.

Fifth Squad detectives reported the arrest for an assault that occurred March 10 at 5:10 p.m. in Valley Stream.

According to detectives, officers responded to a 911 call for a disturbance. During the investigation, Ubaldo Arismendi Lagreca, 28, became combative with officers. Police said Arismendi Lagreca refused to comply with instructions, ignored commands and attempted to leave the scene.

Detectives said Arismendi Lagreca pushed an officer, and a struggle ensued, causing both him and the officer to fall to the ground. During the inci-

dent, the officer struck his left elbow and suffered significant pain.

After being warned, an officer deployed an Electronic Control Device, Taser. Police said Arismendi Lagreca exited the residence and attempted to enter a locked police vehicle before placing his hands behind his back and being taken into custody.

The injured officer was transported to an area hospital for treatment and evaluation.

Arismendi Lagreca is charged with assault, resisting arrest and obstructing governmental administration.

His next court appearance is March 20 at First District Court in Hempstead.

— Angelina Zingariello

Queens man arrested in connection with sale of stolen car in V.S.

A Queens man was arrested March 10 in connection with the sale of a stolen vehicle advertised online, according to Nassau County police.

The Nassau County Police Department’s Electronics Squad Fraud and Forgery Unit reported the arrest at 3:10 p.m. for an incident that occurred in Valley Stream.

Fraud and Forgery detectives said a 35-year-old male victim purchased a 2021 Honda Accord that had been listed on Craigslist. When the victim later visited the Department of Motor Vehicles, he discovered the vehicle’s title was fraudulent. Authorities determined the car had been stolen from New York City on April 5, 2025.

Police said a joint investigation by

the Nassau County Fraud and Forgery Unit and the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles identified Devon G. Ridgeway, 28, of Queens, as the person responsible.

Detectives located Ridgeway at a New York State Department of Corrections Parole building in Jamaica, Queens, where he was taken into custody without incident.

Ridgeway is charged with grand larceny, forgery, criminal possession of a forged instrument, criminal possession of stolen property and unlawful possession of personal identification.

His next appearance is April 3 at First District Court in Hempstead.

— Angelina Zingariello

Honoring life-saving heroism, essay contest winners

By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com

The Valley Stream Board of Trustees meeting recognized an act of lifesaving heroism and honored three student writers on March 16.

Mayor Ed Fare and the board presented a village citation to Kevin Bennett for his actions during a medical emergency on Jan. 10 at a parish dance held at Holy Name of Mary Church. Bennett, a former Meadowmere Park Fire Department captain and firehouse chaplain, responded when attendee Bobby Flynn collapsed and became unresponsive.

Bennett immediately began administering CPR while a call to 911 was placed. Emergency medical personnel later arrived, intubated Flynn and transported him to a hospital. Attending doctors determined that Bennett’s quick response and continued CPR were critical in saving Flynn’s life. Trustee Sharon Daly, who was present that evening, was referenced as an eyewitness to the incident.

“I will say that being there that evening, I can’t tell you, the feeling of everybody in attendance was so overwhelmed,” Daly said. “We honestly thought we lost Bobby, and it just went on and on. It seemed like forever.”

The board noted that Flynn survived the episode, recovering and was currently in the room. The citation was presented on behalf of the mayor, trustees and village

residents in recognition of Bennett’s actions.

The meeting also included recognition of the winners of the Henry Waldinger Memorial Library’s Black History Month essay contest.

“We have to celebrate and recognize Black History Month in March,” Fare said. “We were ready in February, but the weather didn’t cooperate. We didn’t want anybody to have to come out in that storm, and we didn’t think it was fair to give the citations via Zoom. We wanted it here in person.”

This year’s contest theme asked students to address the continued importance of celebrating and observing Black History Month. Fare said the winning essays highlighted the significance of recognizing the accomplishments of Black Americans.

The three winners announced were Maya Aladenoye, a second grade student at Shaw Avenue School; Chloe Forte, a fourth grade student at Forest Avenue School; and Maria Marrakchi Stitou, a seventh grade student at Memorial Junior High School.

Library staff noted that the contest has been held annually and draws strong participation from local students. Organizers said selecting winners is challenging each year due to the quality of submissions, and that entries are reviewed without identifying information to ensure fairness.

“It just so happened that these are three

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 1339475

children who come to our library so regularly, to study after school at our tables and work together with tutors to do their homework and do their projects,” children’s librarian Jaclyn Kunz said. “And we have members of our book clubs here, and kids who really spent a great deal of time in our library. That was especially special for us as librarians to see that we know these are incredible students and young people. We were really, really proud of them.”

As part of the recognition, each winner received a citation from the village and a prize gift basket. The baskets were provided through a partnership with Green Acres Mall, which includes gift cards and other items assembled by mall staff. Village officials and librarians said the event showcased both community achievement and student engagement, with the board concluding the presentations by congratulating the winners and acknowledging all participants in the essay contest.

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

Hofstra eyes CAA championship stage

By ANDREW COEN sports@liherald.com

Hofstra’s men’s lacrosse team reached the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) tournament last spring for the first since 2021 and longtime head coach Seth Tierney hopes that building block lays a solid foundation for a bigger climb.

The Pride reached the CAA semifinals and just missed out on the opportunity to play for a conference title with an 11-10 overtime heartbreaking loss at topseeded Towson. Hofstra brought back plenty of key pieces from that breakthrough season looking to write a different script this May, but returning to the four-team CAA postseason stage will come down to crucial regular season contests against closely-matched opponents.

“The CAA games just take on a different meaning and they have a lot of weight because they’re technically playoff games without being in the playoffs,” said Tierney, who is also the U.S. Men’s Senior National Team head coach as it gears up for 2027 World Lacrosse Men’s Championship, in Japan next year. “They’re tiebreaker games and every time that you can get a win then you can get a tiebreaker over that team not knowing how the future is going to play out.”

Hofstra opened CAA play March 13 with a 12-7 setback at Long Island rival Stony Brook which puts even more weight on Pride’s upcoming conference games.

The Pride (2-5) entered the season with plenty of promise seeing three returning players named to the preseason All-CAA team in red-shirt senior attackman Trevor Natalie, red-shirt junior defenseman Austin Clarke and red-shirt sophomore goalie Shea Kennedy. Natalie was also named a preseason USA Lacrosse AllAmerican after a 2025 season in which he tallied 40 points on 28 goals and 12 assists.

Natalie leads Hofstra in goals through seven games with 16 including three in a hard-fought 11-8 loss to Big Ten foe Rutgers on Feb. 28. The Stuart, Fla. native also tallied four goals in Hofstra’s 14-7 season-opening win at Iona on Feb. 2.

The offense is also led by senior attackman Anthony Mollica, who registered a career-best six goals in Hofstra’s 11-10 home win against UMBC on March 7. Mollica, a former Massapequa High School standout, has 11 goals and nine assists so far this season after tallying 50 points as a junior.

“Anthony is this quiet leader who leads by example with a quiet voice,” Tierney said. “He works hard and he is reaping the rewards.”

The Pride offense boasts plenty of other scoring weapons including senior midfielder Trey Parkes, sophomore attackman Drew Bogardus, redshirt sopho-

more midfielder Joey DeYoung and freshman attackman Gus Langtry.

Langtry, who was ranked 94th on Nike/Inside Lacrosse Power 100 Freshman Rankings out of Parker, Colo., is off to a strong start in his collegiate career with 10 goals including three in the Rutgers loss. He has solid lacrosse genes as the son of former Hofstra All-American Brian Langry.

“He’s got some great DNA and some great characteristics,” said Tierney of Langtry. “He is a very confident and skilled player.”

The close defense is anchored by Clarke, a Parkton, Md. native who recorded 24 ground balls and 13 caused turnovers last season. Redshirt senior Will Delaney also brings veteran experience in front of the cage after registering 20 ground balls last season.

Kennedy patrols the net for a second straight season after making 167 saves last year. He is off to another strong start this season with 83 saves and 54 percent save percentage so far this season.

Hofstra will host Monmouth in a critical CAA game this Saturday at 1 p.m. at Shuart Stadium. The Pride also has a big conference home game against Fairfield on April 4 at 3 p.m. and will face Ivy League power Yale in anon-league tilt on April 14 at 7 p.m.

Anastasia Difino publishes ‘The Dare Book’

that same mission while taking a more interactive approach for young readers.

Designed primarily for children between the ages of three and seven, the book presents a sequence of playful challenges that encourage readers to participate physically and emotionally while listening to the story. Early pages feature lighthearted prompts such as making silly faces or moving around, while later sections introduce more thoughtful activities focused on kindness, compassion and confidence.

The concept came from Difino’s own family experiences. During a particularly busy period filled with work, school and extracurricular activities, she and her family realized they needed time to pause and reconnect.

“We need to just laugh, we need to be silly, we need to stop, we need to just enjoy each other’s company,” Difino said. “And that’s where the idea for “The Dare Book” came out, because also in the classroom, we see it so often. Kids need brain breaks. They need a pause; they need a timeout. Let them be a kid, and I wanted families, parents, teachers, counselors, speech therapists, to really see this as an opportunity.”

The illustrations for both of Difino’s books were created by freelance illustrator Taylor Barron, who is originally from Seattle and now lives in Paris. Barron left a career in animation and design

to pursue freelance illustration and has spent the past eight years illustrating more than 20 children’s books.

Barron first connected with Difino after the author reached out about collaborating on her first book. The illustrator said the themes in Difino’s writing stood out immediately, particularly the emphasis on connection, optimism and emotional awareness. Those themes carried into Difino’s recent release, where Barron worked closely with Difino to shape visuals that would complement the interactive format.

“I particularly love the progression from a silly and playful book to a more touching ending that really inspires connection and love,” Barron said. “I honestly got chills the first time Anastasia read it to me. I found it so sweet. The interactive component, I’m sure, will be a huge hit with kids as well.”

The illustrations in the new book were intentionally designed to be simple yet vibrant. Barron focused on colorful imagery that keeps young readers engaged while leaving space for them to interpret the scenes themselves. Diversity and inclusion were also priorities during the creative process, leading to the depiction of children from a variety of backgrounds throughout the book.

Difino self-published both of her books, a choice she made to maintain full creative control and handle promotion and outreach on her own terms. While

the writing and illustration processes are straightforward, she said, balancing the work alongside teaching, parenting and everyday responsibilities can extend the timeline of bringing a book to life.

Colleague and friend Alicia Marcinkowski, a fellow educator, has followed Difino’s writing journey since the early stages of her first book. Marcinkowski teaches fourth- and fifthgrade art and said she had the opportunity to preview both Difino’s books before their release.

Marcinkowski shared the book with family members, including her five- and eight-year-old niece and nephew. She said the children were enthusiastic about the interactive elements and enjoyed acting out the movements described in the text.

“This book links very much to social emotional learning and the idea of positive reinforcement and being yourself, which is something that, as a teacher, as an aunt, I think, is super important,” Marcinkowski said.

Marcinkowski also read “The Dare Book” during a livestream event connected to Read Across America on March 2, allowing parents and students in her school community to hear the story.

Difino has already begun sharing the book locally as well. After posting about it in a Valley Stream community group, she was contacted by a daycare operator interested in hosting a reading session for children.

Both of Difino’s books are available online through Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Looking ahead, Difino said she hopes to continue writing children’s books while focusing on expanding the reach of her newest release.

Flooded streets are signs of larger challenges

Rising seas, stormwater runoff and pollution affect communities from shore to shore

By ROKSANA AMID, ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN & ABBEY SALVEMINI of the Herald Community Newspapers

Fourth installment in a series about water.

Flooding streets, polluted bays and aging infrastructure are reshaping life along Nassau and Suffolk counties’ coasts. From the barrier island neighborhoods of Long Beach and Island Park to the waterways of the Great South Bay and Hempstead Harbor, communities are confronting the growing impacts of rising water, runoff and environmental strain.

Across Long Island, scientists and planners say, climate change, development patterns and aging infrastructure are converging to create new risks for coastal communities.

Nassau’s South Shore

Heavy rain can quickly overwhelm parts of Nassau County’s South Shore. In the West End of Long Beach, storm drains can fill within minutes as water pools at intersections, climbs curbs and creeps toward front steps. In nearby Freeport, residents sometimes wade through ankle-deep water along canal-side streets. In a Facebook poll from the Herald, residents of Oceanside and Island Park were invited to share experiences with bayside flooding.

RISING TIDES TIDES

Heavy rain combined with high tide, residents say, can push water back up through storm drains. Major flooding events, they report, have struck several times in recent years. High tides — particularly during a new moon and combined with strong winds — can bring roughly a foot of water onto some blocks.

Across the South Shore, flooding is no longer unusual. In many communities, it has become a regular part of life.

Long Beach and Island Park sit on narrow barrier islands only a few feet above sea level, while Freeport and Oceanside stretch along canals and bays that funnel water inland. All four communities connect through Reynolds Channel and the Western Bays, allowing tidal surges to move freely between them.

Much of the infrastructure in and beneath these communities — storm drains, sewer lines and bulkheads — was built decades ago, before sea levels began rising and extreme rainfall became more common.

“When you look at repeated flooding in coastal places like Long Beach and Freeport,” Amy Chester, managing director of the climate resilience nonprofit Rebuild by Design, said, “a huge part of the vulnerability comes down to how these neighborhoods were originally built, where houses went, how high they were built and what infrastructure was put underneath them.”

Many South Shore communities expanded rapidly during the post–World War II housing boom. Natural landscapes that once absorbed rainfall were replaced with pavement and development, while stormwater systems were designed with the assumption that rain would fall and simply drain away. Today, that assumption often proves faulty.

Living with water

Flooding now shapes daily life in many South Shore neighborhoods. Many residents move their cars to higher ground when storms threaten. Others install

pumps in crawlspaces to push water back outside, though many say it still seeps back in. For many households, flooding now affects everyday decisions — from where to park to whether work or school schedules may change.

And flooding doesn’t stop at municipal borders. Rain falling in higher-elevation communities such as Lynbrook eventually flows downhill toward the bay. During intense storms, runoff travels from Nassau’s glacial high points on the North Shore toward its lowest-lying southern communities.

“If you look at the topography, it’s the result of a terminal moraine left by a glacier,” said Georgeen Theodore, an architect and urban planner with Interboro Partners. “Water flows from the high point to the low point. What happens to a town on the bay is connected to towns uphill.”

Because of that connection, Theodore said, climate resilience must be addressed regionally. “Climate vulnerability cannot be solved by one village alone,” she said.

In Long Beach, the highest elevations are along the oceanfront, descending toward Reynolds Channel, where flooding is more common. Similar patterns appear along Freeport’s canals and along Island Park’s lowest blocks, where water tends to pond first and recede last.

Many resilience programs focus on homeowners, offering grants to elevate houses or retrofit properties. Renters, and residents of multifamily buildings, often have fewer options.

“If you don’t own your home, what are your choices?” Chester asked. “You can’t elevate the building. You can’t redesign the drainage.”

Historic housing policies also play a role. In the 1930s and 1940s, federal mortgage maps labeled certain neighborhoods risky for investment, often based on

race or religion. “What we see today is the legacy of those decisions,” Chester said. “Areas that were denied investment then are often the same places facing higher climate risk now.”

Theodore cautions against viewing flooding as purely natural. “Is it a natural disaster,” she asked, “or the outcome of decades of planning and housing decisions?”

Fragmented solutions

Residents say that official responses to flooding have been inconsistent. Some recall sewer improvements in Island Park, but broader efforts have been limited. Experts say that effective solutions necessitate a regional approach.

The best way to manage rainfall, Theodore said, is to slow it before it reaches storm drains through strategies such as permeable pavement, rain gardens, increased tree cover and reducing paved surfaces.

“We want to slow the way water flows,” she said. “But we built for speed.”

With Nassau County already densely developed, creating space for water absorption has become increasingly difficult. Addressing flooding one property at a time won’t solve the larger problem, Theodore said, and long-term coordination will likely be necessary.

Some residents worry about what the next decade may bring as sea levels rise and flooding becomes more common. Communities including Long Beach, Freeport, Island Park and Oceanside increasingly represent the front line of a worsening problem.

The Great South Bay

Pollution entering the Great South Bay is closely tied to what happens on land, particularly through

Wading into the debate over rising water

Continued from PreViouS PAGe

groundwater and runoff. The bay stretches along the South Shore, between the Island’s “mainland” and Fire Island. While it receives freshwater from rivers and streams, a significant portion flows underground through Long Island’s aquifer system.

As groundwater moves through soil, it carries pollutants on its way to the bay. “Excess fertilizer can then make its way into the water column, and that is going to stimulate these algal blooms,” Ryan B. Wallace, assistant professor of environmental studies and sciences at Adelphi University, said. “We have to be able to reduce the amount of nitrogen that’s entering into our groundwater.”

Nitrogen pollution is one of the most significant environmental challenges facing the bay. Much of it originates from cesspools and septic systems, while fertilizers used on lawns, golf courses and farmland also contribute.

Excess nitrogen fuels algae growth. As algae die and decompose, bacteria consume oxygen in the water.

The bay has also experienced harmful algal blooms such as brown tide, which block sunlight from reaching the bay floor and damage seagrass habitat. Because groundwater moves slowly, pollution entering the aquifer today may take years — or even decades — to reach coastal waters.

Despite these challenges, local organizations are working to improve water quality.

Save the Great South Bay, a nonprofit founded in 2012, focuses on reducing pollution and restoring the bay’s ecosystem.

“In each of the 16 towns that cross that area, we have appointed a creek defender who is a local steward,” Executive Director Robyn Silvestri said. “They go out, they patrol the creeks, look for trash or anything else that might be blocking the creek. And then, once a year, they organize a major community cleanup.”

Volunteers patrol waterways for debris in addition to organizing the annual cleanups. Over the past several years, they have removed more than 85,000 pounds of trash from creeks feeding into the bay.

“Oysters used to be all over the bay, and now there’s basically no natural oysters in the bay,” Sylvestri said. “We have oyster farms, but no naturally occurring oysters. So we’re looking to reverse that.”

Because a single oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of water per day, restoring oyster reefs could significantly improve water quality.

Nassau’s North Shore

Environmental advocates say that conditions in Hempstead Harbor have improved significantly over the past several decades, though pollution from runoff, septic systems and aging infrastructure still affects nearby communities.

The harbor connects to Glen Cove Creek and several tributaries along the North Shore, and serves as both an ecological system and a drainage outlet for

the surrounding watershed.

“We have a long-term water monitoring program, which is really the backbone of what we do,” Michelle Lapinel McAllister, programs director for the Coalition to Save Hempstead Harbor, said. “We’ve had consistent and uninterrupted monitoring since 1992.”

Researchers collect water samples year-round to measure nitrogen, bacteria and dissolved oxygen. “The main issues come down to nutrient pollution, bacteria and plastic pollution,” McAllister said.

Nitrogen pollution remains a persistent challenge, because excess nutrients can fuel algal blooms that reduce oxygen levels in the water.

Despite those challenges, the harbor has improved. In 2011, roughly 2,500 acres of shellfish beds reopened after being closed for more than 40 years because of high bacteria levels.

Oyster restoration has also helped improve water quality. Through partnerships with volunteers and federal grants, the coalition has planted more than 1.7 million oysters in Hempstead Harbor since 2022.

Nassau County Legislator Delia DeRiggi-Whitton said that wastewater infrastructure remains a concern on the North Shore, where many communities still rely on septic systems.

“90 percent of Nassau County is sewered, and out of the 10 percent that is not sewered, 90 percent is in my district,” DeRiggi-Whitton said.

County officials have also targeted pollution flowing from Scutter’s Pond, in Sea Cliff, once identified as a major

contamination source for Hempstead Harbor. Officials installed a catch basin and weir system designed to filter runoff before it reaches the harbor.

“It’s basically a filter,” DeRiggi-Whitton said. “It just skims the water and takes out the pollutants that would go into Hempstead Harbor.” The roughly $250,000 project significantly reduced the amount of contamination entering the harbor.

Assemblyman Charles Lavine said that flooding in Glen Cove in 2024 illustrated how stormwater moves through the landscape. “Any groundwater that collects as a result of storms is going to find its way toward the lowest point,” Lavine said. “That’s gravity.”

Residents of Glen Cove’s Woolsey Avenue say they have repeatedly experienced flooding during major storms.

“The water isn’t just rain — it’s runoff from other streets, and it’s filled with garbage and bacteria,” resident Linda Melbinger said. “We’ve had dead animals in our yard in the past, and there’s a layer of contamination on everything that smells.”

“It impacts so many things,” McAllister said. “Everyone moves here because they want the beauty of the harbor, but it’s only going to be beautiful to the extent that you take care of it and you have a healthy and thriving harbor.”

The harbor, she said, supports local recreation, fishing and the broader coastal ecosystem.

“As good citizens,” McAllister said, “we have to make sure that we’re doing our part to respect the harbor and everything it has to offer.”

What residents can do to help

While large infrastructure projects and policy changes play a major role in addressing flooding and water pollution, environmental experts say residents can also take steps to reduce runoff, limit pollution and help protect local waterways.

Reduce fertilizer use

■ Fertilizers used on lawns and gardens can wash into storm drains and eventually reach bays and harbors.

■ Experts recommend using fertilizers sparingly — or avoiding them altogether — especially before heavy rain. Nitrogen from fertilizer is one of the leading contributors to harmful algal blooms in Long Island waters.

Upgrade septic systems

■ Many homes on Long Island still rely on older septic systems or cesspools, which can release nitrogen into groundwater.

■ Programs in Suffolk County offer incentives for installing nitrogenreducing septic systems.

Environmental advocates say similar upgrades across the region could significantly reduce pollution entering coastal waters.

Limit runoff from driveways and yards

■ Rain that falls on paved surfaces flows quickly into storm drains, carrying pollutants with it.

■ Residents can help reduce runoff by installing rain barrels, planting rain gardens, adding trees or replacing pavement with permeable materials that allow water to soak into the ground.

Protect storm drains

■ Storm drains typically flow directly into nearby waterways.

■ Residents can help by keeping leaves, grass clippings and trash out of drains and reporting blocked drains to local public works departments.

Volunteer with local groups

■ Several Long Island organizations rely on volunteers to monitor waterways and remove debris. Programs such as Save the Great South Bay’s Creek Defender initiative organize cleanups and waterway patrols throughout the region.

Celebrating women at Green Acres Mall

By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com

Green Acres Mall hosted a Women’s History Month celebration, bringing together community members, beauty brands and local officials to recognize women making an impact in their communities.

The event, held on March 14, was titled “Celebrating Women: Beauty Inside and Out” and was held from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. in front of Macy’s Women’s and highlighted empowerment, confidence and connection. Organized by Green Acres in cooperation with Macy’s and community partners, the afternoon included beauty demonstrations, master classes and recognition of local honorees.

“Women’s History Month is a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the strength, resilience, and impact of the women in our community,” Jill Bromberg, marketing and community relations manager at Green Acres Mall, said. “This event is about more than beauty — it’s about creating a space where women feel empowered, supported, and celebrated.”

Beauty brands, including Estée Lauder, MAC and Lancôme, led live demonstrations and master classes, with sessions hosted by Estée Lauder during the event. Guests also received complimentary giveaways while supplies lasted.

Additional highlights included complimentary professional headshots, a themed photo backdrop and meet-and-greet opportunities with representatives from the Miss Long Island Pageants, including Miss Long Island and Miss Teen Long Island. Selene Ferdinand of Meera Empowerment also participated in the program.

A key portion of the event recognized women nominated by local elected officials for their service and leadership.

State Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick honored Claudine Hall, president of the Jamaica Square Improvement League for more than 20 years. Hall leads the civic association focused on preserving Elmont’s history and supporting residents. She founded the organization’s annual backpack giveaway, which provides school supplies to local students, and also serves on the Paul Sapienza Elmont/Belmont

Parade Committee.

“As a woman in public service, I deeply admire other women who dedicate their unique skills and perspectives toward serving the community,” CanzoneriFitzpatrick said. “Claudine Hall has spent nearly four decades giving back to the Elmont community through her work with the Jamaica Square Improvement League, including serving as President, and through the Paul Sapienza Elmont/Belmont Parade Committee. I was honored to recognize her at this year’s Women’s History Month Celebration and thank her for her many contributions to our friends and neighbors.”

Town of Hempstead Councilwoman Melissa Miller recognized three members of VFW Post 1790: Intelligence Specialist 1st Class Mystique Rivera, Master Sergeant Wilyshia Tiffany Franklin-Clarke and Hazel F. Brown.

Rivera served in the U.S. Navy Reserve from 2015 to 2024 as an intelligence specialist and operational intelligence analyst, supporting operations including Inherent Resolve and Freedom Sentinel. She holds degrees from the University at Albany and St. John’s University.

Franklin-Clarke served 27 years in the U.S. Air

Force Reserve, beginning in 1979 as an air cargo specialist before transitioning into the medical field as a medical service technician with an aeromedical staging squadron.

Brown, born in the Panama Canal Zone and later immigrating to the United States, joined the military in 1979 and later served in the National Guard as a chaplain’s assistant and unit helping coordinator before retiring in 2019.

“It is always an honor to recognize outstanding women in the Town of Hempstead,” Miller said. “I was proud to nominate three incredible women from VFW Post 1790 in Valley Stream for this Women’s History Month Celebration, and it was truly a pleasure to celebrate their dedication, leadership and unwavering commitment to our veterans and the community.”

Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages honored Janice Thomas, a Millbrook community resident and nurse who now serves as an adjunct professor and is known for supporting neighbors.

Nassau County Legislator Cynthia Nuñez recognized Brandi Walker for her leadership and communication efforts within the Mill Brook community, helping residents stay informed and engaged.

Nassau County Comptroller Elaine Phillips attended the event to show support and recognize the women honored during the celebration.

The sound of connection How hearing health impacts relationships

By Dr. Esther Fogel, Comprehensive Audiology

At Comprehensive Audiology, we often see firsthand how hearing health is about much more than just the ears, it touches every part of life, especially our most cherished relationships. Whether it’s sharing a laugh with a friend, hearing a grandchild’s first words, or simply understanding a partner during everyday conversations, clear hearing is central to feeling connected.

When hearing starts to decline, however, communication can become strained. Misunderstandings may happen more often, and loved ones might feel ignored or frustrated, even though the person with hearing loss isn’t intentionally tuning them out. Over time, these small miscommunications can lead to feelings of isolation, tension, and emotional distance.

Research consistently shows that untreated hearing loss has a profound impact on the home dynamic. Partners of individuals with hearing difficulties often report a loss of intimacy and fewer shared activities. Family members may mistakenly interpret hearing struggles as a lack of

interest or engagement, leading to hurt feelings on both sides.

The good news? Addressing hearing health can repair and even strengthen these vital bonds. Open communication is the first step toward a solution. If you or a loved one suspect a change, it’s important to talk about it openly and without blame.

A conversation framed with understanding can make a world of difference.

We believe that hearing healthcare isn’t just about devices; it’s about people.

Comprehensive Audiology’s team is here not just to test hearing, but to truly listen to your concerns, your lifestyle, and your goals. We view ourselves as your dedicated partners in care, helping you find solutions that support both your hearing and your relationships.

For many, the right technology restores more than sound; it restores confidence and ease in conversations. Hearing care is a journey, and no one should walk it alone. Having a trusted provider in Lynbrook means having a reliable source of support every step of the way.

By valuing your sense of hearing and investing in local, expert care, you can safeguard your connections and enjoy a

Book your hearing evaluation today!

better quality of life. Ready to take charge of your hearing and health?

ComprehensiveAudiology, at 261 Broadway in Lynbrook,helps people of all ages live better by hearing their best. Appointments can be made by calling (516) 387-4000 or by scheduling online at comprehensiveaudiology.com/scheduleappointment. Follow us on Facebook,

Health memos are supplied by advertisers and are not written by the Herald editorial staff.

LinkedIn, Google,YouTube, and Instagram at @comprehensive_audiology.

261 Broadway, Lynbrook, NY 11563 (516) 387-4000 comprehensiveaudiology.com

A better way to treat blocked ears

For more than a century, doctors typically have treated children and adults with chronically blocked ears by surgically placing tubes within the ears to relieve pressure. Now, there is a better way.

Mount Sinai South Nassau’s ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists are using minimally invasive endoscopic technology to thread a tiny balloon catheter through the nose and into the eustachian tube. They inflate the balloon for two minutes to restore tube function before deflating it and removing the catheter. Patients often can return to work and take part in normal daily activities on the same day as the procedure.

The new procedure can be used by patients suffering from chronic eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD), including those experiencing a persistent feeling of ear fullness, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), recurring ear fluid, difficulty hearing, earaches during weather changes, or difficulty equalizing ear pressure when traveling by plane or ascending steep inclines. Each year, ETD accounts for nearly 2 million visits to doctors, emergency departments, or urgent care centers in the United States.

ETD occurs when the eustachian tube, which connects the middle ear to the throat, becomes blocked, inflamed, or fails to open properly. When functioning correctly, the eustachian tube opens and closes naturally, especially when yawning or swallowing, and is vital to maintaining ear health and helping regulate pressure.

While children are susceptible to

Kakani, MD, Director of Otolaryngology

uses advanced noninvasive procedures to treat patients with issues related to the ears, nose, and throat

ETD due to their shorter, more horizontal, and narrower eustachian tubes, it is most prevalent in adults 65 years and older as well as those ages 40-64.

In the past, ETD has been treated by surgically placing tubes within the eardrums to aerate the middle ear. However, Mount Sinai South Nassau’s team of otolaryngologists (specialists in diagnosing and treating structural dysfunctions or injuries in the ear, nose, and throat) led by Rajesh Kakani, MD, Director, Otolaryngology, are using “tuboplasty surgery” or eustachian tube balloon dilation to correct ETD.

Approved by the Food and Drug Administration, tuboplasty surgery is an elective, minimally invasive endoscopic outpatient procedure that opens blocked

eustachian tubes with a balloon catheter.

Performed under general anesthesia, the benefits of tuboplasty surgery include minimal recovery time and follow-up care. Studies have found that patients experience long-lasting relief after tuboplasty surgery.

Designated as a Sinus Center of Excellence, Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Department of Ear, Nose, and Throat specializes in treating allergies, chronic ear infections, dizziness, hay fever, hearing loss, voice hoarseness, chronic nosebleed, chronic sinusitis, sleep apnea, and snoring and swallowing disorders.

Dr. Kakani and his team use advanced noninvasive procedures to treat patients with all types of issues related to the ears, nose, and throat, including:

• Endoscopic sinus surgery

• Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty

• Head and neck cancer surgery

• Rhinoplasty, or plastic surgery of the nose

For more information about Mount Sinai South Nassau’s ENT services or to schedule an appointment, call 1-877-SOUTH-NASSAU.

mountsinai.org/southnassau

Brain AwarenessWeek March 16 - 22

I was very interested to learn about how my hearing loss was affecting my brain health and the possibility that my hearing loss could lead to dementia or early Alzheimer’s.

SPONSORED CONTENT

How Treating Hearing Loss Protects Memory and Brain Health

During Brain Awareness Week (March 16–22), Hearing and Brain Centers of America is highlighting one of the most overlooked—but proven—ways to protect brain health: treating hearing loss and tinnitus.

Research shows untreated hearing loss is one of the largest modifiable risk factors for cognitive decline and dementia. As auditory input to the brain decreases, the brain must work harder to process sound, diverting resources away from memory, focus, and comprehension. Over time, this cognitive overload can accelerate brain atrophy, social isolation, and dementia risk.

Studies from Johns Hopkins Medical Center reveal that individuals with mild hearing loss are twice as likely to develop dementia, while

those with moderate to severe hearing loss face up to a five-fold increased risk. A 2023 study published in The Lancet further confirmed that treating hearing loss can significantly slow cognitive decline.

At Hearing and Brain Centers of America, traditional hearing aids have been replaced with prescriptiongrade NeuroTechnology™,

designed not just to amplify sound—but to stimulate the brain. These advanced devices improve clarity, reduce listening effort, and support neural pathways critical for memory and cognition.

The landmark ACHIEVE Study (The Lancet, 2023) found that older adults who treated hearing loss experienced a 48% reduction in cognitive decline over three years. Additional research shows hearing aid use is linked to improved memory recall, increased social engagement, and lower dementia prevalence.

Dr. Keith Darrow, neuroscientist and clinical audiologist, emphasizes: “We hear with our brains, not our ears.” Treating hearing loss early helps protect brain function, enhance quality of life, and promote healthier aging. In recognition of Brain

Awareness Week, Hearing and Brain Centers of America encourages adults over 50 to schedule regular hearing and cognitive screenings. If you or a loved one are experiencing hearing loss or tinnitus, contact us to schedule a comprehensive hearing and cognitive assessment.

Together, we can protect brain health and add more life to your years.

things to know about women’s history month

March celebrates women shaping the future

By Chris ColuCCi

ccolucci@liherald.com

For nearly 40 years, the U.S. has used the month of March to commemorate National Women’s History Month. While women makeup just over 50 percent of the population, their fight for equality on all fronts — economic, social and political — has been a constant. The annual acknowledgment highlights the impact made by women across the country.

The National recognition has international roots

The American celebration of Women’s History Month began somewhat informally, without official government support, as National Women’s History Day in the early 1900s. Early advocates for women’s rights created the day to bring attention to key issues, including suffrage — the right to vote — in 1909. The idea spread quickly and, by 1913, European countries including Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland were celebrating International Women’s Day.

The international counterparts used the day similarly — raising awareness of women’s issues and holding rallies to protest unfair treatment. On March 8, 1917, the Petrograd Women’s March took place in Petrograd, Russia (now Saint Petersburg), protesting WWI food shortages.

It began as a day, then a week, then a month

National Women’s Day, Feb. 28, was first recognized in 1909. After gaining traction and shifting into the month of March, American interest in the celebration expanded in 1980 when President Jimmy Carter declared Women’s History Week — the week containing March 8.

By 1986, some states took the opportunity to increase awareness further, spurring President Ronald Reagan to officially declare Women’s History Month in 1987. “From earliest times, women have helped shape our Nation,” Reagan wrote in a Presidential proclamation. “Historians today stress all that women have meant to our national life, but the rest of us too should remember, with pride and gratitude, the achievements of women throughout American history.”

This

year’s theme: Shaping a sustainable future

Women’s History Month isn’t only a chance to support women-owned businesses, celebrate local women in political positions, or learn about an array of historical figures. Each year has a specific theme chosen by the National Women’s History Alliance — a nonprofit organization founded in 1980 to promote women’s history in the U.S. The 2026 theme is “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future.” The aim is to honor women who create long-term sustainability in multiple arenas — environmental, economic, educational, and societal. Previous themes include “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating and Inspiring Generations” in 2025 and “Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion” in 2024.

Business summit highlights entrepreneurs, innovation

By ABBEY SALVEMINI

The Herald Long Island Business Summit & Thrive Awards brought together entrepreneurs, executives and family-owned businesses at the Crest Hollow Country Club in Woodbury on March 3 for a day of networking, education and celebration focused on helping businesses expand and compete in a challenging market.

An all-day networking expo

featuring organizations such as the New York Small Business Development Centers, Trellus and the Secure Choice Savings Program kicked off the summit.

A featured executive session, “The Future is Now: Protecting Your Wealth and Legacy,” led by attorneys Morris Sabbagh and Joseph Trotti, of Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP, emphasized proactive planning, wealth preservation and safeguarding family legacies.

Sabbagh encouraged a forwardthinking approach to protecting businesses and personal legacies.

“Most successful people are optimists, that’s what makes them successful,” he said, emphasizing that confidence, preparation and strategic vision drive long-term, generational success.

After the executive session, event leaders took the stage to formally greet attendees and highlight the summit’s mission of supporting and strengthening Long Island’s business community. Those lead-

ers underscored their commitment to strengthening Long Island’s business community and supporting small and mid-size companies.

Marc Perez, senior vice president at Bank of America, highlighted the bank’s commitment as a presenting sponsor of the event and to the region’s entrepreneurs, stating, “Bank of America remains deeply committed to supporting businesses, the backbone of Long Island’s economy.”

Stuart Richner, CEO of Richner Communications Inc., echoed that sentiment.

“Small and mid-size businesses are the backbone of Long Island’s economy,” emphasizing the vital role they play in driving regional growth,” he said.

Amy Amato, executive director of corporate relations/events at Richner Communications, encouraged attendees to maximize the day’s opportunities.

“I want you to leave here with tangible strategies and meaningful relationships,” she said.

18 Joseph Milizio, managing partner at Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP, highlighted the energy in the room and the value of collaboration.

“We have a room filled with excitement,” he said. “This is where you form partnerships to grow your business,” underscoring how connection and strategic guidance can help businesses thrive for generations.”

At the heart of the summit were the 2026 Thrive Awards, celebrating the small and family-owned businesses that drive Long Island’s economy. Stew Leonard Jr. was honored with the Legacy Leadership Award, alongside winners in categories such as Excellence in Entrepreneurship, Social Impact, Creative Excellence and Health & Wellness Leadership. The awards showcased the innovation and resilience that shape the region’s business community.

The opening keynote of the summit featured fashion entrepreneur and native Long Islander Steve Madden, who shared insights on balancing ambition with sustainability in business during his session, “Building a Business That Doesn’t Break You.” Emmy Awardwinning broadcaster Curt Chaplin, guided the discussion on the challenges and triumphs of growing a successful enterprise.

“An entrepreneur is someone who breaks the rules and thinks of things differently,” Madden said, giving attendees an inside view of the unconventional strategies and mindset that have driven his success.

“His entire story is just remarkable,” Chaplin said, framing the conversation and asking questions that highlighted the lessons behind Madden’s journey.

Guests then attended “Workshop Session I: The Money Hour,” focused on financial strategy and growth. Panels on scaling startups, managing cash flow and protecting business legacy featured experts from Bank of America, CliftonLarsonAllen, GC Advisory Group and Empire State Development, offering practical guidance for sustainable success.

The afternoon continued with “Workshop Session II: Mind Your Business,” which covered legal essentials, AI tools and marketing strategies. Speakers included Milizio and Derek Gibbs of Casper Studios and Brad Harmon of Richner Communications.

“All decisions are driven through

data,” Harmon said. He reminded attendees that “it’s not about you, it’s about the consumer,” urging them to understand their target market and where their audience is. When challenges arise, his advice was simple: “Ask yourself, what did the data say?”

Motivational speaker and entrepreneur Brandon Steiner, founder and president of The Steiner Agency and CollectibleXchange, delivered his closing keynote, “The 5 Essentials to Thrive in Business in 2026.”

He emphasized innovation, empathy and growth, telling attendees, “I’m always trying to outthink my competition,” and urging them to “lead with empathy” by truly listening to customers’ needs. Steiner also encouraged continuous improvement, reminding the audience, “Don’t let success get in the way of more success.”

The Bank of America Small Business Spotlight Awards honored three standout businesses in the Micro, Small and Growth categories. Cholados y Antojitos Corp, Charles Krull + Son, Inc. Plumbing and Heating and Curl Evolution each received $5,000 in unrestricted funds. Participants entered by submitting how their business gives back to the community, and how they would use the prize money.

“We are thrilled to have been chosen to receive this award,” Curl Evolution owner Allison Bridges said. “We are very invested in Long Island and the people here. This will help us open an additional location at the end of the year helping us get more curl care options to the residents here as well as hire more talent.”

The event was powered by Bank of America, with additional support from Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP, whose sponsorship underscored a shared commitment to strengthening and sustaining Long Island’s small and family-owned business community. Event highlights were also shared on Instagram and LinkedIn.

Attendees left with new connections, actionable strategies and renewed inspiration to navigate an evolving business landscape. By combining expert insight, meaningful networking and recognition of local excellence, the Herald Long Island Business Summit & Thrive Awards reinforced a shared commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and ensuring

Take a fresh look at your organization How this can turn challenges into opportunities

By Jocie Dye and Dave Hickman

Are you confident you’re heading toward sustainable and positive change? Are you concerned about the effectiveness of your operations and workforce, and if they can keep pace with your growth?

Reviewing your structure, processes, and systems with an eye toward your strategic vision can help your organization make informed, targeted, and impactful decisions.

Three key ways to uncover opportunities

Many businesses and organizations face uncertainty as competition, tax, and funding structures continue to evolve. Organizations need to be nimble and lean, while operating efficiently through leveraging data, automation, and their workforce to help drive growth.

Start with a 360-degree view of your business. If you’re already feeling stretched, think about helping fill those gaps while you focus on core strategy.

Getting a fresh perspective in three key areas – structure, process, and systems – can help you thrive now and in the face of new disruptions and business opportunities.

1. Understand the structure required to support your operations

Ask these questions to help determine if your operations are supporting the needs of your mission, strategy, and leadership now and in the future:

• Are managers receiving the training, tools, and information they need to do their work effectively?

• Do they understand their budget and spending?

• Do they feel they have the right tools and resources to operate efficiently?

• Do managers know who they can turn to if they have questions on financial or human resource matters?

People strategy: Filling the skills gap with the right team

If the answer to any of the above is

“no,” it’s possible you are experiencing either skills or capacity gaps within your operations functions.

Ideally, your organization’s operations serve in both a compliance and risk management role, as well as one of customer support to the rest of the organization. If you’re feeling gaps in either compliance or customer service, it’s likely time to further evaluate and identify where and why those exist — and begin planning to remediate.

Many businesses find outsourcing some or all their business operations can help fill skills gaps in required compliance areas, as well as add capacity, particularly through change and growth. Outsourcing often provides the ability and flexibility to right-size in a way that can grow with you as your needs change.

2. Review key operating processes

Your team is only as effective as the processes they follow and the tools and technology they use. To help you understand how effectively and efficiently your team is operating, ask:

• Do we have documented and wellunderstood standard operating procedures?

• Are we leveraging electronic and auditable system workflows for things like employee onboarding, accounts payable, expense approvals, and signatures on cash disbursements?

• Do sales and billing data flow seamlessly into the financial system of record?

• Are we storing documentation electronically, in shared and documented locations?

• Do managers know where to access the reporting data and information they need when they need it?

A “no” answer may indicate manual, inefficient processes, and risks associated with human error, weak controls, lost documentation, and the potential for missed revenues.

3. Modernize your technology systems for efficiency and security

Updating your technology doesn’t have to be a major undertaking. For some, it may be as simple as converting to a cloud-based version connected to other platforms.

Automation

Do you use outdated, unintegrated technologies, or have modern tools staff struggle to use effectively? If your workflows aren’t automated and you don’t have data at your fingertips, you should be asking yourself why.

Today’s business systems — and increasingly, AI-driven tools — make it possible to automate nearly any and all routine data entry tasks, which not only increases efficiency, but lends itself to stronger controls, documentable audit trails, and better data and analytics. Other systems can track a company’s full financial profile, which helps with everything from setting revenue targets to taxes.

Cybersecurity

Protecting technology, including software your employees use to work from home, is critical. Hackers, or threat actors, are constantly on the move, using AI and other tactics to hone their attacks. Anti-virus software,

employee education, strong passwords, a two-factor identification system, and regular system scans are just some of the cybersecurity techniques available

Artificial intelligence

AI-powered platforms can go beyond automation by learning patterns in your financial data, predicting cash flow, and identifying cost-saving opportunities. Combined with outsourcing support, these technologies allow your back-office team to shift from manual tasks to strategic analysis, helping leadership make smarter decisions faster.

For more information on business operations improvements, contact Nicola Ellam at nicola.ellam@CLAconnect.com or 646-604-0015.

The information contained herein is general in nature and is not intended, and should not be construed, as legal, accounting, investment, or tax advice or opinion provided by CliftonLarsonAllen LLP (CLA) to the reader. For more information, visit CLAconnect.com.

CLA exists to create opportunities for our clients, our people, and our communities through our industryfocused wealth advisory, digital, audit, tax, consulting, and outsourcing services. CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen LLP) is an independent network member of CLA Global. See CLAglobal.com/disclaimer Investment advisory services are offered through CliftonLarsonAllen Wealth Advisors, LLC, an SECregistered investment advisor.

Sports stars to headline Herald Reworld event

Reworld™, presenting sponsor of the 2026 Herald Sustainability Awards of Long Island, announced that former NFL quarterback and sports broadcaster Boomer Esiason and New York Islanders forward Kyle Palmieri will join this year’s event, with longtime broadcaster Tom Kelly returning as master of ceremonies.

Produced by RichnerLIVE and the Long Island Herald in partnership with Reworld™, the awards program will take place May 14 The Heritage Club in Bethpage.

The evening will recognize outstanding environmental leadership across Long Island, honoring nonprofit organizations, educators, elected officials, and community leaders who are advancing sustainability efforts throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties.

“As this program enters its second year, we are proud to elevate leaders who are making meaningful environmental progress across Long Island,” said Maureen Early, lead community relations specialist at Reworld™. “Bringing together respected voices from our region, including Boomer Esiason and Kyle Palmieri, helps shine a spotlight on the inspiring work happening in our communities. Sustainability is built through partnership, and this event reflects the collective commitment required to move our region forward.”

Esiason, who enjoyed a distinguished NFL career and later became a nationally recognized sports commentator, and Palmieri, a veteran NHL forward with the New York Islanders, will join Reworld™ in celebrating this year’s honorees and highlighting the importance of community leadership in tackling environmental challenges. Kelly will guide the evening’s program, introducing award recipients and leading the ceremony.

The 2026 Herald Sustainability Awards of Long Island Presented by Reworld™ will recognize individuals and organizations in several categories, including:

• Environmental Leader in Policy

• Champions of Municipal Stewardship

• Community Impact for Sustainability

• Environmental Infrastructure Leader

• Environmental Development Leader

• Environmental Leader in Entertainment

The program will also feature the Student Sustainability Champion Award, honoring one exceptional student from Nassau County and one from Suffolk County for leadership in promoting sustainable change. Each student honoree will receive a $2,500 prize provided by Reworld™ and will be recognized during the ceremony.

Reworld™ continues to invest in initiatives that empower communities and advance environmental stewardship across Long Island.

For more information about Reworld™ and its environmental initiatives, visit ReworldWaste. com.

For more information about the 2026 Herald Sustainability Awards of Long Island Presented by Reworld™ or to request an invitation, visit: RichnerLve.com/richner-event/ herald-sustainability-awardspowered-by-reworld/

STEPPING OUT

GIVE IN TO TEMPTATION

Life is sweet at the Chocolate Expo

By Abbey Salvemini

Chocolate lovers, mark your calendars for a day of indulgence for all the senses. The Chocolate Expo returns on Sunday, March 22 — this year bringing its tasty wonders to its new venue, following many years at Hofstra University. Nassau Coliseum’s Expo Hall, a vast — more than 44,000 square foot — space, is ready to welcome all to an immersive chocolate wonderland of decadent flavors, irresistible aromas and family-friendly fun.

Upon entering everyone is immediately greeted by chocolate fountains, flowing with rich white, dark and milk chocolate, setting the tone for a deliciously unforgettable experience.

One of the largest and most celebrated chocolate festivals in the U.S., according to its founder Marvin Baum, more than 80 vendors are represented at what he describes as “the official home of chocolate, food and fun.” Visitors can treat themselves to everything from artisan chocolates and baked goods to specialty foods, cheeses and spirits.

“We’re happy to bring the Chocolate Expo to the Nassau Coliseum,” Baum says. “With more space comes more vendors. We’re bringing in vendors who don’t normally come to events on Long Island, so people will get to see something truly different.”

Beyond shopping and sampling, visitors can enjoy demonstrations, chocolate-themed presentations and interactive moments throughout the day.

From classics like bonbons, fudge and chocolatedipped treats there are no shortage of desserts to sample. Savory pairings, baked goods, specialty foods, wine, and cheeses are also tempting; there’s something to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.

Some of the most buzz-worthy treats that you won’t to miss out on include chocolate-covered bacon, a favorite since 2012. For those looking to try something new, the Dubai-style chocolates are trending this year, with creative twists like chocolatecovered donuts, including offerings from a purveyor based in Lebanon.

These unexpected goodies add an adventurous edge to the festival, making it as much about discovery as it is about indulgence.

“People often find new favorites at the Expo, whether it’s a specialty cheese they will look for in stores or a spirit they want to visit at the distillery,” Baum says highlighting its lasting impact.

Be sure to check out the Long Island confectioners represented, such as Bellmore’s Chocolate Works, a

Trevor Wallace

chocolaterie selling chocolate-covered pretzels, platters, and more. Other local favorites include Chez Hedwidge, an artisan gluten-free bakery, based in Valley Stream; also the Sunflower Bakeshop, a Kosher bakery in West Hempstead, offering a wide range of gluten-free and vegan options.

In addition to culinary delights, this year’s edition includes a dose of television nostalgia. Cast members from the classic series “Little House on the Prairie” and ‘Diff’rent Strokes’ are scheduled for special guest appearances. Dean Butler, Patrick Labyorteaux and Todd Bridges will be on hand to meet fans throughout the day. The actors will be available for autographs and selfies (fees are set individually) and will participate in a panel discussion with an audience Q&A at 1 p.m., included with event admission.

The combination of chocolate with pop culture has become an Expo hallmark, with Baum noting that “Little House on the Prairie” holds a special place for many.

“Chocolate is very nostalgic,” he says. “People are always looking for treats and desserts, and we also want to bring in that element of nostalgia.”

• Sunday, March 22, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; early VIP access starts at 9 a.m.

• Tickets are $30, $15 ages 5-12 online only; general admission timed-entry tickets: $20, $15 child online; $30, $15 child at the door; available from thechocolateexpo.com

• Nassau Coliseum, Hempstead Tpke., Uniondale

Providing a visual centerpiece sure to attract attraction (and serve as a vibrant, imaginative backdrop for photos), acclaimed balloon artist Robbie Furman returns to craft an intricate balloon sculpture display featuring scenes and characters from both iconic TV series. When his demo wraps up, children eagerly dive in to pop the balloons, in what Baum playfully terms a “balloon popping party.”

For more family-sized fun, young visitors can drop by the Kidz Zone. Face painting, balloon twisting and a scavenger hunt will surely keep the young set entertained, in addition to being surrounded by chocolate treats.

“Seeing the smiles on people’s faces is what it’s all about,” Baum enthuses.“This is a chance for people to get away from everything, whether that’s trying a new chocolate or just enjoying the moment.” He encourages everyone — whether coming solo, with friends or family — to make this a must-visit.

“It’s really about the experience and having a good time.”

For Baum, supporting local businesses and building relationships with returning chocolatiers is just as important as the treats themselves, making it a unique and meaningful day for the community.

Photos courtesy Chuck Fishman

Photos: From chocolate-dipped treats to inventive creations, every bite is a delicious discovery.

The comedian brings his Alpha Beta Male Tour to the Paramount stage. The energetic comic-digital creator has gained a growing following with sharp observational bits, viral character sketches, and fast-paced crowd work. Rising from early internet sketches to sold-out clubs and theaters, he blends internetsavvy humor with classic jokecrafting, making his shows accessible to longtime fans and first-timers alike. He co-hosts the popular Stiff Socks podcast, further expanding his reach to comedy listeners nationwide. Wallace’s tour is packed with fresh stories, act-outs, and interactive riffs. His ascent started with viral sketches lampooning internet culture, energy-drink bros, entrepreneurs, and micro-trends; those clips earned millions of views and a loyal fan base that now fills venues everywhere. As his reputation grew, he transitioned from shortform videos to touring, proving he could translate online momentum into consistent, in-person laughs.

Friday, March 20, 7 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Three Italian Tenors

Direct from Rome, the Three Italian Tenors stop at Tilles Center on their North American Tour debut. Everyone will be captivated by Giovanni Maria Palmia, Ugo Tarquini, and Alessandro Fantoni accompanied by pianist Fabrizio Mocata. Their salute to the great Italian tenors — Luciano Pavarotti, Andrea Bocelli, Mario Lanza and Enrico Caruso — is an exhilarating and unique musical event. It features original arrangements and universally loved Italian songs and tenor arias, fusing Italian wit and charm with romanticism, lyricism, dramatic flair and operatic style. Their repertoire also includes romantic ballads like “Musica Proibita” and “Dicitencello vuje,” a tribute to Dean Martin with Volare, and a lively piano medley of popular Italian tunes — all culminating in a thrilling celebration of vocal artistry and Italian musical heritage. You’re sure to be enthralled by their rich vocals, heartfelt emotion and the golden tradition of Italian vocal artistry.

Tuesday, March 24, 7 p.m. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

MAR 20

Photos with the Easter Bunny

The Easter Bunny returns to Green Acres. Visit the Bunny located between Journey’s and Aeropostale. Photo package prices vary.

• Where: Green Acres Mall, Sunrise Hwy

• Time: Through April 4

• Contact: shopgreenacres.com/ BunnyPhotos or (516) 561-1157

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 22, March 24-26

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

On exhibit

MAR 21

Nassau County Museum of Art joins in the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. Its landmark exhibition explores how Long Island has reflected and shaped the story of American art. From Revolutionary-era portraiture and folk art to nineteenth-century landscapes, Impressionism, and the bold innovations of Abstract Expressionism and Pop Art, the exhibition highlights how every major art movement found expression here. From Brooklyn to Montauk, Long Island’s natural beauty, coastal light, and close connection to New York City inspired generations of artists and gave rise to thriving art colonies and postwar creative communities. Featuring paintings, decorative arts, and historical objects displayed together in immersive settings, the exhibit celebrates the region’s enduring influence and its rich artistic legacy. Opens March 21, on view through July 12.

• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor

• Time: Ongoing

MAR 29

The Man In Black: A Tribute to Johnny Cash

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

South Shore Symphony

The beloved orchestra springs forward with its next concert “The Rite of Spring.” The program includes Marquez’s Conga del Fuego Nuevo, Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending (Romance for Violin and Orchestra) and Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring.

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

• Time: 7:30 p.m.

• Time: 7 p.m.

With his strikingly similar looks, baritone voice, and spot-on mannerisms, Shawn Barker’s uncanny resemblance to the original “Man In Black” revitalizes the true character and spirit of Mr. Cash himself, one of America’s greatest musical icons, for a truly one-of-a-kind show. The energetic concert features Barker in character throughout the entire evening, walking the audience through each era of Cash’s life and music, including hits like “Folsom Prison Blues,” “I Walk The Line,” “A Boy Named Sue,” “Hurt,” and “Ring of Fire,” backed by a full band. Born and raised in a working-class suburb of St. Louis, Barker took a schoolboy love for singing in church with his family and turned it into a career. The path to his current success wasn’t a straight line from gospel choir to Johnny Cash tribute act. After serving his country in the Army, Barker returned home to Missouri, took a job as a carpenter and spent all of his free time learning how to play the guitar. He developed strength and versatility in his voice by modeling his crooning on a cast of legends — Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, Buddy Holly and Gene Vincent. His performances quickly turned from hobby to profession, but oddly enough, Barker’s first touring gigs were portraying Elvis, not Johnny Cash. Everything changed, however, when Barker was asked to audition for the part of Cash in a Hollywood production, as it became evident to the director and Barker himself that Johnny Cash was his true calling. From that point there was no turning back.

• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337

Easter Goodie Bag

Giveaway

Bring the family to Hendrickson Park. Kids 12 and under receive a pre-made Easter goodie bag while supplies last. Mr. and Mrs. Bunny are also attendance for photos. With a sensory-friendly meet and greet with the Easter Bunny, 9:30-11 a.m.

• Where: A.J. Hendrickson Park behind the pool

• Time: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

• Contact: valleystreamny.gov or (516) 821-3786

STEM Explorers: In Like A Lion

The weather during the month of March can be described as coming in like a lion and out like a lamb. Families can join the Green Teens at Long Island Children’s Museum in welcoming spring as you explore what happens during the change of seasons at the drop-in program. For ages 3+.

• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

• Time: Noon-2 p.m.

• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800

District 30 BOE meets District 30 Board of Education holds its regular session to address district goals and policies. Reports from committees and administrators are also presented.

• Where: Shaw Avenue School Library, 99 Shaw Ave.

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: valleystream30.com

MAR 24

District 13 BOE Budget Meeting

District 13 School Board holds a meeting to discuss the budget for the upcoming school year. Stay informed on district matters.

• Where: James A. Dever School, 585 Corona Ave.

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: valleystream13.com

District 24 BOE meets

District 24 Board of Education holds its regular policy and business committee meeting. Stay informed on

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

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

district matters.

• Where: William L. Buck School, 75 Horton Ave.

• Time: 7:30 p.m.

• Contact: valleystream13.com

MAR

26

“You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown’ Adelphi University Department of Theatre students give a concert performance of the beloved classic. With charm, wit and heart, “You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown” explores life through the eyes of Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy and their friends in the Peanuts gang. This revue of songs and vignettes, based on the beloved Charles Schulz comic strip, showcases Adelphi’s talented students. Musical numbers include “My New Philosophy,” “The Book Report,” “The Baseball Game,” “Little Known Facts,” “Suppertime” and “Happiness.”

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

• Time: 7 p.m.

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

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

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

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

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

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. GODFREY HERCULES, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on January 22, 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 April 14, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 29 Bank 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 Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37, Block 490 and Lot 164. Approximate amount of judgment is $613,408.19 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 608645/2023.

Linda S. Agnew, Esq.,

Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.:221109-1 158848

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE HOLDERS OF THE GE-WMC ASSETBACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-2, Plaintiff, AGAINST EDITH COOK, et al. Defendant(s) Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on August 13, 2024. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on April 13, 2026 at 2:00 PM premises known as 932 Dana Avenue, Valley Stream, NY 11580. Please take notice that this foreclosure auction shall be conducted in compliance with the Foreclosure Auction Rules for Nassau County, and the COVID 19 Health Emergency Rules, including proper use of masks and social distancing.

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, at Valley Stream, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 0037, Block 00633-00 and Lot 00014. Approximate amount of judgment

$560,291.44 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #601430/2018. Ellen Durst, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLPAttorneys for Plaintiff40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747 158846

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK INDEX NO. 612203/2025 COUNTY OF NASSAU

LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC Plaintiff, vs.

AYENA JAN, if living, and if she/he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; “JOHN DOE” (REFUSED NAME) AS JOHN DOE #1, “JOHN DOE” (REFUSED NAME) AS JOHN DOE #2, “JOHN DOE” (REFUSED NAME) AS JOHN DOE #3, Plaintiff designates NASSAU as the place of trial situs of the real property

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS

Mortgaged Premises: 14 MOLYNEAUX ROAD, VALLEY STREAM, NY 11580 Section: 37, Block: 551, Lot: 4 Defendants.

To the above named Defendants YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or

appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you.

NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT

THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $646,000.00 and interest, recorded on April 08, 2022, in Liber M Vol. 46519 at Page 166 , of the Public Records of NASSAU County, New York., covering premises known as 14 MOLYNEAUX ROAD, VALLEY STREAM, NY 11580.

The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. NASSAU County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county.

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME

If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.

Dated: February 27th, 2026 ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC

Attorney for Plaintiff Matthew Rothstein, Esq. 900 Merchants

NCC aims to support student parents

By HERNESTO GALDAMEZ hgaldamez@liherald.com

Student parents attending Nassau Community College may soon have greater access to child care as part of a statewide expansion announced this week by Kathy Hochul aimed at supporting adult learners across the State University of New York system.

Hochul said the initiative will expand child care services at 11 SUNY community colleges, either by extending hours into evenings and weekends or by creating additional child care spots for infants and toddlers. Nassau Community College is among six campuses that will add more spaces for younger children, a move intended to help student parents balance their academic and family responsibilities.

WState University of New York, said the expansion is intended to give student parents the support they need to stay focused on their education.

“Student parents should be able to focus on their studies without having to worry about finding safe and affordable child care,” King said. “The expansion of the child care programs across SUNY’s community colleges will work to remove barriers, so all of our students can receive the support they need to pursue the education of their dreams.”

e are investing in the futures of our adult learners and student parents.

The effort is designed in part to support participants in SUNY Reconnect, a state program that offers free tuition, fees, books and supplies to New Yorkers ages 25 to 55 who do not already hold a college degree and want to pursue an associate degree in a high-demand field.

KATHY HOcHuL Governor

“We are investing in the futures of our adult learners and student parents to ensure they can pursue and achieve their dreams,” Hochul said in a statement announcing the expansion. “Through the expansion of child care across SUNY’s community college campuses … we are reinforcing our commitment to meeting the needs of adult learners and offering them a path to upward mobility.”

State officials say access to reliable child care remains one of the most significant barriers facing adult students, particularly parents returning to school while working or raising young children. By expanding child care availability, SUNY hopes to make it easier for those students to enroll in classes and complete degree programs.

John B. King Jr., chancellor of the

Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590

516-280-7675 158806

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

In addition to Nassau Community College, five SUNY community colleges will expand child care hours to better align with evening or nontraditional class schedules. SUNY Broome Community College will create additional evening care hours, while Dutchess Community College plans to add two weeknights of evening care and expand infant and toddler capacity. Finger Lakes Community College will extend evening hours until 9 p.m. two days a week, and Monroe Community College will add 16 hours of evening child care while also increasing capacity for younger children. Onondaga Community College is partnering with the YMCA to provide evening child care spots for adult learners enrolled through the SUNY Reconnect program.

Additional infant and toddler child care spaces will also be created at Jamestown Community College, SUNY Niagara Community College, Rockland Community College, Tompkins Cortland Community College and SUNY Westchester Community College.

In 2022, the state announced $10.8 million to address child care shortages and expand capacity at SUNY schools. More recently, SUNY also expanded child care programs at Dutchess and Monroe community colleges to include evening hours aligned with highdemand academic programs.

Towns back tax relief for fallen officers families

By MIKE POLANSKY

CERTIFICATES, SERIES

2006-BNC1, Plaintiff,

vs. MICHAEL R. HIGGINS; IF LIVING, AND IF HE BE DEAD, ANY AND ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on June 7, 2022, and Decision + Order On Motion duly entered on February 2, 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 April 22, 2026 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 9 Jasper 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 at Elmont, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37,

Block 458 and Lot 156. Approximate amount of judgment is $577,472.04 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 608825/2018.

Geri Friedman, Esq., Referee Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, LLC, 10 Bank Street, Suite 700, White Plains, New York 10606, Attorneys for Plaintiff 158996

Senior Correspondent

Nassau County’s three town supervisors gathered place at the Brian Moore Athletic Center in Plainedge Park, along with local officials and law enforcement families to highlight a new property tax exemption for surviving spouses of police officers killed in the line of duty.

The announcement with Hempstead’s John Ferretti, Oyster Bay’s Joseph Saladino and North Hempstead’s Jen DeSena took place on March 11; one day after the Oyster Bay Town Board unanimously approved the exemption.

Brian Moore, a Plainedge High School graduate and New York City police officer was shot and killed in Queens in 2015. His father, Ray Moore, attended the news conference.

The measure allows surviving spouses to receive a 50 percent exemption on the town portion of property taxes for their primary residence. The program was authorized by legislation approved by the State Legislature and signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul in late 2025.

“Here in Nassau County, we back the blue,” Ferretti said, adding “we have never taken for granted the many sacrifices made by Nassau County police officers every single day! We hope that this new legislation provides some relief and assistance to those left behind.”

The exemption applies only to the town portion of property tax bills. School districts, fire districts, villages

and other municipalities must adopt their own legislation to offer similar relief.

Several Long Island towns — Babylon, Brookhaven, Hempstead, Huntington, Islip and Oyster Bay — have already enacted the exemption. The North Hempstead town board is expected to consider the measure next month.

“The men and women who put service before self, people who risked their own lives to protect our lives and sometimes just our property,” Saladino said. “No law could repay what they gave,” adding the exemption is “one of many meaningful ways that we can show their families that the sacrifice of their loved ones will always be appreciated, and that they did not die in vain.”

DeSena said the exemption recognizes the risks police officers take to protect residents.

“There is no greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for his friends,” she said, quoting the Gospel of John, “this is what the men and women in blue do for us. They are dedicated, they are trained, and they go out every day and put their lives between danger and we the residents they protect. Nassau County is the safest county in the country thanks to the men and women in blue.”

Nassau County Superior Officers Association Vice President Keith Jaklitsch thanked local leaders for adopting the measure.

“The families of fallen officers cannot be forgotten,” he said, adding that the exemption was something “that actually should have been done a long time ago.”

Home Improvement

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Once In a Lifetime

TAll about wood beams

Q. We are talking with contractors about rebuilding our large deck, and we would like to have fewer columns so they don’t block our water view. The contractor suggested that there are wood beams that can do the job, and mentioned something called a lam beam to go a longer distance and open up the space underneath. We would also like to have the deck be sealed so that we can use the underneath area, even in the rain. What do you suggest we use and not use?

A. For starters, laminated wood beams are generally a poor choice for outdoor use, even though there are some on the market that are specifically treated with waterproof adhesives. These few products on the market for outdoor use are much more expensive, and often only used in commercial projects or where the expense is not the greatest concern. Not all beams are the same material or made the same way.

When I have conversations with people who build, I sound negative instead of enthusiastic, but that is based on the experience of writing insurance reports and investigating the damage and cost of failed products and applications. Remember, in order to succeed, you first have to know how to fail, so as to avoid failure.

What I have witnessed is not failure at the center of beams, where the beam would bend the most, but at the ends and tops, where water penetrates more frequently. If the product isn’t waterproof, the grain of the laminations will start to split. For these reasons, I discourage outdoor use of manufactured, laminated beams because when they are specified very carefully for a project, there is little or no control over what ends up on the jobsite unless the ordering is micro-managed.

I keep samples in my office of beam cutaways to demonstrate how one beam product was specified for a job and what ended up on the jobsite was similar but, with careful inspection, clearly shows the two beams are not the same. They were laminated using different species of trees, one weaker than the other and an inferior number of plies and glues. To a person dropping the material off, based on an order for a “lam beam,” the inferior material looked the same but after installation the floor bounced like a trampoline. The beam had to be removed, at great expense, and the right product ordered. Even though a lesson was learned, it came at a great price. So indoor locations can also be a problem if the wrong configuration of laminations and species are used. If the correctly engineered lumber beam or steel reinforced beam is designed, they will last for years without another thought. I would use an interlocking aluminum deck product called Versadeck or another product called Lock Dry. They conduct heat rapidly, which means they dissipate heat quickly, making them cool enough on hot summer days to walk on while barefoot, and they keep water from getting through. Good luck!

© 2026 Monte Leeper

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opinions

With Kristi Noem gone, we must restore order at DHS

As our country’s largest law enforcement agency, the Department of Homeland Security is essential to our national security, disaster relief and the safety of the American people. There is far too much at risk for this agency to be mismanaged or subject to incompetent leadership. Former Secretary Kristi Noem’s tenure there was nothing short of a disaster, and her recent removal from office did not come a moment too soon.

Under her failed leadership, U.S. citizens were killed at the hands of federal agents, trust in our law enforcement was eroded and our communities’ safety was jeopardized. She showed a contemptible disregard for her fundamental responsibility to keep the American people safe, and should never have been confirmed as the head of DHS. I’m relieved that she was finally removed after her failures became too numerous to ignore. In addition to her complete disregard for law and order, Noem lost control of the department, egregiously misused taxpayer dollars, stoked violence, and

failed to keep the American people safe. Under her watch, hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars were wasted and funneled away from essential programs. That included the purchase of two luxury jets, with plans to purchase a third, to support her travel, costing nearly $300 million, as well as a public advertising campaign improperly awarded to companies with close ties to Noem and other senior officials, costing $220 million.

TInstead of prioritizing the capture of violent criminals, Noem escalated dangerous situations by slashing training for ICE recruits — including on legal use of force — and sent unprepared agents into the streets, making everyone less safe. She diverted federal agents and resources from combating cybersecurity attacks, child abuse, human trafficking and terrorism. That put our national security at even greater risk.

audit of how ICE investigates use-offorce incidents.

Noem’s removal does not absolve her from her gross negligence or the unjust killing of American citizens. She must still answer for her disastrous and deadly period in office to restore the public’s trust in DHS and ensure that her mistakes are not repeated. Noem left the department in disarray, and degraded its ability to work in a nonpartisan fashion. Protecting the U.S and its citizens should never be partisan.

he next Homeland Security secretary must work with Congress to reform ICE.

In light of her incompetence, dereliction of duty and corrupt practices, I am proud to have helped lead the call for Noem’s removal by demanding her impeachment following the deaths of Renée Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. I urged House Speaker Mike Johnson and Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan to begin impeachment proceedings just days before she was fired.

extending Temporary Protected Status for law-abiding Haitians in our communities; and restoring order at the agency.

The next Homeland Security secretary must push forward negotiations between Congress and the administration to reach a bipartisan compromise on greater reforms of ICE, and then he or she must ensure that reforms are immediately and properly enacted. This must include proper training and deescalation tactics that other law enforcement agencies use.

Additionally, the next secretary must refocus on bolstering the department’s other essential agencies, which Noem foolishly cut, by reinstating the billions of dollars in essential funding and thousands of workers that were eliminated from CISA’s cybersecurity efforts and FEMA’s lifesaving disaster relief and mitigation. These agencies and others within DHS are vital to our country’s security, and must be resuscitated.

To make matters worse, Noem systematically obstructed the DHS inspector general’s office from ensuring that the agency operated within the bounds of the law. The week she was removed from office, the inspector general revealed to Congress that as many as 11 investigations were being blocked by Noem and DHS leadership, including an

With Noem’s exit, the Trump administration has an opportunity to right her wrongs and ensure that the next Homeland Security secretary leads with competence and integrity. That includes working with Congress to reform ICE; reinstating and reallocating funds for disaster relief, cybersecurity and fighting human trafficking and terrorism;

Above all, accountability and law and order must be restored at DHS. Our country cannot afford another secretary who defies his or her oath to uphold the Constitution. The next secretary must prioritize the safety and security of our communities and officers, undo Noem’s horrendous legacy and rebuild the American people’s trust in the Department of Homeland Security.

Laura Gillen represents the 4th Congressional District.

A clearer path for families in preschool special education

Families entering the preschool special-education system often carry a mix of hope and uncertainty. A parent notices that a child struggles with communication. A pediatrician raises a developmental concern. A preschool teacher sees delays that deserve attention. From that moment forward, families begin navigating a system filled with new terms, unfamiliar meetings and important decisions.

Last November, under the leadership of Commissioner Betty Rosa, the State Education Department released updated guidance to help families understand how preschool and school-age special-education services work. It explains how referrals are initiated, how evaluations take place and how services are determined. For many families, this clarity arrives at the right moment. Early identification opens access to services that strengthen communication, social development and readiness for school.

Decades of research points to the same conclusion: Early support strengthens long-term outcomes for children. If you notice your child struggling, consider talking with your pediatrician or preschool provider. They can guide you on the next steps, including whether a referral for evaluation makes sense.

FThe preschool process begins with that referral. A parent, pediatrician or early-childhood provider can initiate that step. Once a family provides consent, their child receives an evaluation to determine eligibility for services through the Committee on Preschool Special Education, or CPSE. The updated state guidance walks families through each step of that process. It explains timelines designed to protect children from unnecessary delays. After consent for an evaluation, the initial review must occur within 60 days. Once the CPSE develops recommendations, services begin as soon as possible, no later than 30 school days. Those timelines are important. In the life of a child, a few months represent a significant period of development. Communication skills, social interaction and

early learning habits grow rapidly during the preschool years.

amilies entering this process seek clarity, respect and honest partnership.

The guidance also addresses one of the most confusing moments for families: the transition between early intervention and preschool special education. When a child receiving early-intervention services approaches their third birthday and remains eligible, families must begin planning for a move to preschool special education. The state regulations require the transition plan to be in place at least three months before the child’s next birthday to prevent any gaps in services. Careful planning during this stage helps maintain service continuity in a crucial period of a child’s development.

Clear procedures matter. Timelines matter. Even stronger systems rely on one essential ingredient: relationships. A strong CPSE process begins with listening. Families arrive with knowledge that no evaluation report can fully capture. They understand their child’s strengths, their challenges and the small victories that signal progress.

Parents play an important role in every decision. They participate in

meetings. They receive information in their home language. They provide consent for evaluations and services. They ask questions and raise concerns when something feels unclear. Across school systems, effective teams recognize that parents do not sit at the table as visitors. They serve as partners.

In District 30, those partnerships shape daily work. Our teachers, speech therapists, psychologists, social workers and administrators collaborate with families from the first referral through the early elementary years. Our goal is to give each child the support necessary to grow, communicate, learn and belong.

My perspective as a superintendent includes both sides of that table. Years of work in special education, and years of parenting a child with significant disabilities, shaped the same conclusion. Families entering this process seek clarity, respect and honest partnership. New York’s updated guidance offers families a clearer roadmap. It requires local school systems to bring that roadmap to life through careful listening and strong partnerships with families, communicating clearly and keeping the focus exactly where it belongs: on the growth and potential of every child.

Dr. Roxanne Garcia-France is superintendent of Valley Stream School District 30.

glenn

mArthA jAcoviDes

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Inspire the next generation of leaders

in speeches and campaign platforms, public officials frequently speak about the importance of inspiring the next generation of civic leaders. Far fewer take the concrete step of bringing young people into the halls of government to see how democracy actually works.

When students are given the opportunity to witness the legislative process firsthand, ask questions of policymakers and engage with peers from across the state, civics education moves beyond textbooks and becomes real.

A trip to a legislative chamber or a youth summit in a state capital can transform abstract lessons about government into tangible experiences. Students see debates unfold, observe how laws are crafted and understand that decisions made in these rooms affect the lives of millions of people.

Exposing students firsthand to the responsibilities of public service helps them understand how decisions made in government affect their communities — and their own futures. These experiences also demonstrate that leadership isn’t reserved for a select few. Instead, it is something young people can aspire to through education, service and engagement. In a Zoom-first world, it is critical that school districts budget for field trips that put students in the civic arena.

Programs that open the doors of government to students also provide something increasingly valuable in today’s civic climate: a sense of connection. When young people interact with elected officials and government staff, they learn that government is not some distant or mysterious institution. It is a

letters

Peter King defends Trump’s hockey locker room remarks

To the Editor:

system run by people who are accountable to the public, and whose work shapes the policies that affect schools, transportation, public safety and economic opportunity.

Across Long Island, many villages and towns have taken small but meaningful steps in this direction through “Mayor for a Day” or “Supervisor for a Day” programs. These initiatives give students a chance to shadow a local leader, attend meetings and get a brief but memorable glimpse into municipal government. For many students, the experience is their first real exposure to how decisions are made in their own communities.

Those programs are valuable, but they could go further. Municipal leaders might consider expanding them into broader outreach efforts that bring the experience directly into classrooms. A rotating “government road show,” in which mayors, supervisors, council members and department leaders visit schools in their communities, could reach far more students than a singleday shadowing opportunity.

By bringing government into schools — rather than just inviting a handful of students to visit government buildings — officials could spark interest among young people who might never otherwise consider public service. A conversation with a mayor or council member can demystify the process and show students that civic leadership begins with curiosity, participation and a willingness to serve.

We know that local institutions don’t always have the capacity to build these programs from scratch — and they don’t have to. We encourage students, munici-

It is continually sad to read Peter King’s opinion pieces. His notions of patriotism, justice and morality are warped by his political fervor for President Trump and his administration — and it shows.

In last week’s op-ed, “A heart-stopping hockey victory was marred by politics,” by trying to bend the president’s boys-club remarks about the U.S. women’s hockey team into a “friendly jibe,” King showed just how behind the times he is. “Lighten up!” he wrote. Really?

King went further. He tried to validate Trump’s failure to acknowledge the women’s hockey team by pointing out that the women were favored to win anyway and had secured their third gold medal since 1998. So no big deal, I guess. Talk about disrespectful.

palities and school districts to partner with established organizations that have proven track records of connecting young people to public service. Two we especially recommend are Civics Unplugged and Govern For America. CU equips high school students to work on government projects they care about, providing the skills, mentorship and connections to make that work transformative for communities. GFA places high-achieving early-career professionals in impactful, full-time state government roles — channeling elite talent where it can do the most good.

Government internships are crucial entrees into public service, too. Too often, however, these internships are unpaid. We need these positions and other entry-level jobs to pay a living wage; otherwise, the only young people who can take them are those from wealthy families, leading to further societal inequality as well as biases among policy creators who lack diverse lived experiences.

At a time when civic participation is often uneven and public trust in institutions is frequently tested, investing in meaningful engagement with young people is not simply educational — it is essential. The more these young people grow, the more our communities gain — and that cycle is the point.

If leaders truly want to inspire the next generation of public servants, they must do more than speak about civic engagement. They must open the doors of government and invite young people inside. Our children are ready to enter the arena.

Let them in.

L.I.’s economy is solid — but is increasingly K-shaped

assessing current economic conditions over the past year has been unusually challenging due to delays in federal data releases, volatile inflation readings and shifting labor-market dynamics. As more complete data has recently become available, however, a clearer picture is emerging for Long Island — one that reflects strength in aggregate, but growing divergence beneath the surface.

Long Island’s economy continues to outperform many regions nationally. Home values remain elevated, hospitality and tourism activity are robust, and unemployment rates in Nassau and Suffolk counties remain below the national average. These indicators point to a region that has weathered recent economic shocks relatively well.

Yet aggregate strength masks important distributional differences. Increasingly, Long Island reflects what economists describe as a K-shaped recovery, in which different segments of the population experience sharply disparate economic outcomes.

Households in the upper echelon of income and wealth distribution have

Letters opinions

King also called out those athletes who had the nerve to express their dismay and concern over our current administration’s actions and the climate it has created here. Every American athlete has a right to speak their mind. Our athletes travel and train at their own expense, typically requiring immeasurable sacrifice from their families. While chosen to represent our country, they are private citizens, not representatives of the state.

Unfortunately, King missed the point. Everyone was celebrating the men’s victory, just as they had celebrated the women’s win a few days earlier — until the locker room antics. First of all, the FBI director was seen chugging beer, screaming and pouring beer over players’ heads like a sophomoric jock. Then Trump called and invited the team to the White House, and as an afterthought, said the women would have to be invited. And no one winced. No one stood up for the women’s team, which had beaten Canada just days before in overtime. As a matter of fact, they laughed.

The men’s win wasn’t marred by politics. It was marred by the leader of our country’s public disregard for

benefited substantially since 2020. Financial markets have posted significant gains, increasing retirement balances and household net worth for those with market exposure. At the same time, residential real estate values across Nassau and Suffolk have risen markedly since the pre-pandemic period, reinforcing wealth accumulation for existing homeowners. Those households have seen stronger balance sheets, greater financial resilience and sustained consumption capacity.

iincomes have not kept pace with the rising costs of living.

The implications extend beyond household well-being. Long Island’s economy, like the broader U.S. economy, is fundamentally consumer-driven, with roughly two-thirds of economic activity tied to consumer spending. While higher-income households account for a disproportionate share of consumption, sustainable regional growth depends on broadbased purchasing power across income groups.

llustrating the difference between wealth and incomes that aren’t keeping pace.

While affordability in our region impacts all Long Islanders, many lower- and middle-income households have faced a more constrained economic reality. While nominal wages — what you see in your pay stub — have increased over the past several years, real wage growth — your pay adjusted for inflation — has been limited by persistently higher prices of essential goods and services. Housing costs, food prices and energy expenses have accounted for a growing share of household budgets, eroding purchasing power even as headline inflation shows moderation.

This divergence is central to the concept of a K-shaped economy. The upper arm reflects asset-driven growth and wealth accumulation, while the lower arm captures households whose

a select group of Olympians, it was marred by the excuses made for his behavior, and it was marred by those who think it was no big deal.

ELIzABETH MURPHY Franklin Square

Trump’s, and King’s, words matter

To the Editor:

As I’m sure Peter King knows, words still matter. Tone still matters (thank goodness!). A president’s words still matter. Trump’s use of the words “I guess I have to invite the women” has behind it a long history of his sexism and disrespect for women. If someone else had said it, maybe it would have landed differently.

King’s printed words “Lighten up!” are furthering a culture of disrespect toward women. Shame on him. And to think my late grandfather loved him so much. I would hope this article would have changed his mind.

SUzANNE VERA North Bellmore

Recent measures of consumer sentiment underscore this tension. Despite relatively low unemployment, confidence levels remain subdued. Concerns about job security, trade policy and long-term affordability continue to weigh on household expectations, suggesting that employment alone is an insufficient indicator of economic confidence on the national level.

There are also macroeconomic risks associated with sustained divergence. If equity markets weaken or housing price growth moderates, the wealth effects currently supporting higher-income consumption could diminish. In such a scenario, the economy would be vulnerable if lower-income households lack the income growth necessary to offset that slowdown.

Importantly, these dynamics do not

suggest that Long Island is entering a period of economic decline. The region’s proximity to New York City, its diversified industry base and the relative strength of sectors such as health care, professional services, technology and finance continue to provide stability. Recent improvements in office occupancy and continued strength in hospitality further reinforce this resilience.

But resilience shouldn’t be confused with inclusivity. The central economic challenge facing Long Island isn’t simply maintaining growth, but also ensuring that growth benefits all industry sectors and sizes. Workforce development, housing affordability and goodpaying jobs that offset higher inflation are essential components of long-term regional economic health. Policymakers and business leaders should remain attentive not only to aggregate indicators, but also to the real impacts of policies on Long Islanders.

As more complete data becomes available in 2026, the contours of Long Island’s economic trajectory are becoming clearer. Aggregate performance remains strong, but the divergence across households warrants careful attention. Economic strength is most durable when the entire population is benefiting from it — and addressing these imbalances will be critical to sustaining Long Island’s long-term prosperity.

Dr. Steve Kent is chief economist of the Long Island Association.

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