Rockaway Avenue was buzzing on Aug. 8 as Valley Stream’s weekly Friday-night Classic Car Show rolled into town, this time with the coveted Mayor’s Trophy on the line. Cedric “Leggs” Ballah of Laurelton, right, cruised away with top honors for his sleek 1970 Oldsmobile Cutlass. The car show continues every Friday through Aug. 29, from 6 to 9 p.m., weather permitting. Story, more photos, Page 10.
By ISABELLA OREN INTERN
When Valley Stream resident Michael Gay began thinking about his Eagle Scout project, he didn’t have to look far to find inspiration; it was growing right in his backyard.
The newly opened Valley Stream Community Garden had just started welcoming members on May 4, and for Gay, the timing was perfect.
Gay, 17, a recent graduate of Central High School and a member of Boy Scout Troop 116, saw the opportunity to make a difference in a place close to his heart.
ing about how he could make a meaningful impact in his community, and the garden offered a unique opportunity.
“It seemed like just the right direction to go to, because it was new, knowing that it was just getting off the ground,” Hamlett-Gay said. “They needed a lot of help.”
money wasn’t
MIcHAEL GAy Troop 116
“He chose this simply because our family is a member of the garden, and the garden actually just publicly opened to the public on May 4,” said his stepmother, Audra Hamlett-Gay. “So, it was something that he was already aware of, that he knew and that he wanted to be a part of.”
Gay had already been think-
Beyond its novelty, the project aligned with Gay’s values—especially his appreciation for the environment and interest in sustainability, an important part of his life, according to Gay.
“For the garden in particular, he was very excited to be able to help make things grow, to see things grow,” Hamlett-Gay said. “Being able to plant food for not just ourselves, but also for the local food pantry was something that did interest him.”
On July 26, Gay’s vision came to life. He organized a major volunteer day, coordinating members of his troop, gar-
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den members and community volunteers to help maintain and improve the garden.
Behind the scenes, his family showed support by challenging him with questions to prepare him for every detail.
“We’re going to throw all of this stuff at you at one time to see where and how you answer these types of questions,” HamlettGay said. “Because when you do have people come in there to help out, you have to be able to be responsible, and you have to be a leader.”
Before any soil was turned, however, one of Gay’s biggest hurdles was raising the funds. He launched a GoFundMe campaign, unsure of how it would be received.
“His goal was set at $1,300, and he said, hopefully, you know, there’ll be people who are interested in donating,” Hamlett-Gay said. “When he surpassed $1300, it gave him confidence. He started feeling like, wow, I could actually do this.”
His efforts paid off, and more than $3,000 was raised. Over 40 people showed up to volunteer, exceeding his expectations.
This accomplishment did not come without challenges. “Raising money wasn’t easy, and finding things for everyone to do was also not easy,” Gay said. Still, with the community’s support, the goal proved within reach.
“This group that we have at the garden is a very, very committed group and a very tight-knit group,” Hamlett-Gay said. “So,
when it’s time to come out and support one another, you do have the strength and the numbers.”
As scouts and garden members worked together, his worries turned into pride. His stepmother remembered how emotional it was when he donated at the end of the day.
“We waited until the very end, and it was just a very emotional moment to have that,” Hamlett-Gay said. “Everyone was very, very, very excited about that amount, which they said is going to go a long way.”
Looking forward, Gay’s involvement with the garden isn’t over. For him and his family, this was never just a one-time project.
The family plans to stay involved with the garden, helping in any way they can and ensuring it continues to thrive. Over time, their visits have become a weekend tradition and one of the highlights of her stepson’s week. They turn it into an outing, starting with breakfast before heading to the garden to spend time together and lend a hand.
For Gay and those around him, the project planted more than vegetables; it cultivated leadership, community, and confidence.
“You don’t know exactly what your kids will do and how they will take on a project,” Hamlett-Gay said. “And to see that he took on a project and he made it his own, he’s finally getting it, that this is the type of person you need to be.”
By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com
The Elite Scholarship Foundation Inc. hosted their Passionately Pursuing Purpose Community Street Fair in front of Forest Road School in Valley Stream.
Dozens arrived to enjoy the food, vendors and most importantly to honor this year’s three recipients for their two scholarship programs.
“In order for us to get future leaders, we have to invest in them,” founder Paula Mills said. “We have to be able to show them that you know their potential and encourage them.”
The Elite Scholars honored two awardees this year, each receiving $1,500 toward their tuition. Imani Lyons, a recent graduate of Elmont Memorial High School, was among the awardees. Lyons is an aspiring neurosurgeon and will be studying neuroscience at Spelman College.
“My communities have definitely given back to me, and this is only the start of something really great,” Lyons said. “It’s really nice to know that my community has my back.”
Coming from Queens, Mikayla Traill was honored as the second. A class of 2025 graduate from The Mary Louis Academy, she plans on studying history and is entering pre-law at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
“I’m so grateful for this organization,” Traill said. “This scholarship really helped me with my academic journey.”
The Elite Scholars program is offered for those with academic excellence in New York. Last year, The Elite Scholarship Foundation Inc. started an additional scholarship program titled “Beauty for Ashes.” This is awarded to the student with financial need and academic promise while overcoming obstacles and contributing to their community.
This year’s Beauty for Ashes receiver is Amira Elrington-Edwards, a recent graduate of Elmont Memorial High School in the top 10 percent of their graduating class. She has accepted
$1,500 toward her tuition. ElringtonEdwards is studying finance and is on the pre-law track at Howard University. Unable to attend the event due to her studies beginning early, her grandmother, Mildred Edwards, was there on her behalf.
“I feel very good about her being honored today,” Edwards said. “It’s a good opportunity for the youngsters to apply to something like this and get rewarded.”
As each scholarship recipient crossed the stage, they received their tuition check along with a certificate of achievement, as well as citations from District 22 Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages and Congresswoman Laura Gillen. The citation from Gillen was presented by Victoria Esteve, a caseworker from her office.
To conclude the ceremony, Miss New York USA 2025 state finalist and Miss Nassau County 2025, Karyse J. Gocoul of Valley Stream, spoke a few words.
“Ladies, as you step into this next chapter of your lives, I want you to remember this,” Gocoul said. “Your education is not just preparing you for a career, it is preparing you for your calling.”
For more information about The Elite Scholarship Foundation Inc., visit EliteScholarsChristianAcademy.com.
In second marriage planning, a co-trustee is sometimes recommended on the death of the first spouse. While both spouses are living and competent they run their trust or trusts together. But when one spouse dies, what prevents the other spouse from diverting all of the assets to their own children? Nothing at all, if they alone are in charge. While most people are honorable, and many are certain their spouse would never do such a thing, strange things often happen later in life. A spouse may become forgetful, delusional or senile or may be influenced by other parties. Not only that, but the children of the deceased spouse tend to feel very insecure when they find out their stepparent is in charge of all of the couple’s assets. If you choose one of the deceased spouse’s children to act as co-trustee with the surviving spouse there is a conflict that exists whereby the stepchild may be reluctant to spend assets for the surviving spouse, because whatever is spent on that spouse comes out of the child’s inheritance. Then what if stepparent gets remarried? How will the stepchild trustee react to that event? What if it
turns out the stepchild liked the stepparent when his parent was living, but not so much afterwards?
Here is where the lawyer as co-trustee may provide an ideal solution. When one parent dies, the lawyer steps in as co-trustee with the surviving spouse. The lawyer helps the stepparent to invest for their own benefit as well as making sure the principal grows to offset inflation, for the benefit of the deceased spouse’s heirs. The stepparent in this case takes care of all their business privately with their lawyer. The trusts cannot be raided. These protections may also be extended for IRA and 401(k) money passing to the spouse through the use of the “IRA Contract”. Surviving spouse agrees ahead of time that they will make an irrevocable designation of the deceased spouse’s children as beneficiaries when the IRA is left to the surviving spouse, and further agrees that any withdrawals in excess of the required minimum distribution (RMD) may only be made on consent of the lawyer.
Second marriage planning offers numerous traps for the unwary.
Two men at the Pet Smart at 14 West Circle Drive by the Green Acres Mall in Valley Stream allegedly left the store with a shopping cart filled with merchandise at 1:18 p.m. on Aug. 6, according to Nassau police.
Authorities did not disclose the exact value or type of items taken but said the amount met the legal threshold for a felony-level theft.
When a store employee confronted the men in the parking lot, the man pushing the cart allegedly pulled out a knife and “swung it at the employee before exiting the store,” police said. No injuries were reported, but officers noted that the act of brandishing the knife turned the incident into a robbery under New York State law.
Police described the weapon as a folding-style knife, though they did not provide an exact measurement of the blade.
According to police, the man with the knife placed the merchandise into the trunk of a red Honda parked directly in front of the store’s entrance. Another man sat in the driver’s seat with the engine running. After loading the items, the Honda headed south from the lot. The employee immediately called 911, giving dispatchers the vehicle’s color, make, and license plate
number, as well as descriptions of the suspects.
A short time later, patrol officers spotted the Honda traveling south on Mill Road. Police initiated a traffic stop without incident and recovered the stolen merchandise from the trunk.
Yusef Britton, 26, and James Williams, 61, both of Far Rockaway, and David Mclaughlin, 40, of Arverne, were taken into custody. Williams was allegedly found with a white powdery substance believed to be cocaine, which police said was packaged in a way consistent with personal use.
Britton, identified as the man with the knife, along with Mclaughlin and Williams, identified as the driver, are charged with robbery. Britton also faces an additional charge of criminal possession of a weapon. Williams was additionally charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance.
Police said all three men were transported to the Nassau County Police Department’s Fourth Precinct for arrest processing.
The defendants were arraigned at the First District Court in Hempstead on Aug. 7.
— Jeffrey Bessen
—Lisa Basini, Baking Coach, Bellport
Lisa’s passion is baking. Opening a store was a big step—one she made with support from PSEG Long Island’s Business First Program. She earned incentives for choosing a vacant space and rebates for upgrading to efficient LED lighting. Now, she’s saving on energy costs and her thriving business has made life a little sweeter for all of us.
By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
Kickoff for the Nassau high school football season is less than a month away.
On Aug. 18, all 53 public high school football programs in the county will begin preparations for the upcoming season, scheduled to open Friday, Sept. 5 with a handful of Conference IV games leading up to the first full slate the following week.
Aside from then eight-time defending Conference II champion Garden City moving to Conference III, which saw it dominate the competition on the way to another title, the biggest news last offseason was the decision to add an 11 a.m. kickoff slot. That’ll continue in 2025 and possibly beyond, first-year Section VIII football coordinator Joe Martillotti said, as the county builds its varsity officials staff.
“We’re definitely in better shape with officiating crews as we were last year,” Martillotti said. “Some are doubling up with 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. games on Saturday. We don’t have enough officials to play every game at 2 p.m. on Saturday, but there’s also more and more teams playing Friday night which helps.”
Some teams with multiple 11 a.m. starts this season include Clarke (four), Carey (three), Sewanhaka (three), South Side (three), Uniondale (three), Elmont (two), Valley Stream South (two) and Wantagh (two.)
Massapequa (Conference I), Carey (II), Garden City (III) and Wantagh (IV) won county titles last season, but the landscape has changed again with Rutgers Cup winner Garden City moving back to Conference II, Wantagh returning to Conference III where Carey also resides now.
Carey and Wantagh are seeded No. 1 and 2, respectively, but won’t meet until Week 7 (Oct. 25) at the home of the Seahawks. Carey, which defeated Half Hollow Hills East for the Long Island Class II crown to cap an undefeated campaign, opens at home Sept. 13 against Valley Stream South.
Massapequa, which won the Rutgers Cup in 2023 and seeks a third straight county title, is ranked second behind Farmingdale this season. The Chiefs won an overtime thriller over the Dalers in the Conference I championship game last November. The teams will meet again in Week 6 at Farmingdale. Massapequa opens at home versus Freeport Sept. 13; the Dalers host Syosset the previous evening.
Third-ranked Long Beach is tasked with opening the season against Garden City in the Trojans’ return to Conference II. Garden City has won a remarkable 54 consecutive games.
Sept. 12 Freeport at Massapequa
Sept. 13 Garden City at Long Beach
Sept. 19 Farmingdale at Oceanside
Sept. 27 Carey at South Side
Oct. 4 Plainedge at Lynbrook
Oct. 11 Mepham at Garden City
Oct. 18 Massapequa at Farmingdale
Oct. 25 Wantagh at Carey
Oct. 25 Freeport at Oceanside
Oct. 31 Seaford at Plainedge
Conference IV runner-up Plainedge is ranked at the top this season and kicks off on the road at North Shore Sept. 6.
Teams choosing to play a full game scrimmage can do so once 10 practices are completed, making Aug. 29 the first potential date. Teams can conduct joint practices as soon as Aug. 23 and are permitted to play 7 on 7 and also run 10 plays (11 on 11) in full gear.
Nine teams switch conferences
Along with Garden City, Carey and Wantagh, six additional teams switched conferences for 2025 based on enrollment figures. East Meadow and Valley Stream Central slid from Conference I to II, Sewanhaka from II to III, BellmoreJFK from III to II, Valley Stream South from IV to III, and Lynbrook from III to IV. East Meadow and Kennedy meet Week 1 in Bellmore. Valley Stream Central opens at home against MacArthur, Sewanhaka hosts Floral Park, and Lynbrook hits the road to face Malverne.
Few coaching changes
Last season saw new head coaches debut at Baldwin, East Meadow, Freeport, Mepham, Seaford and at the midway mark, Lawrence. Most of those squads enjoyed success and were part of the Nassau County playoffs. This year there’s new sideline bosses at North Shore and Manhasset. Dan Agovino left a legacy at North Shore with 23 years at the helm and led the Vikings to a pair of county championships and their first-ever L.I. title in recent seasons. Longtime assistant Bill Madigan takes over. At Manhasset, Mike Lewis takes over for legendary Jay Iaquinta.
Chase Samelson is set to be Lynbrook’s starting quarterback this fall.
Nick Carentz and Oceanside will take on Farmingdale Sept. 19. Eric Dunetz/Herald photos
LIJ Valley Stream Long Island Jewish Valley Stream Hospital is pursuing Magnet designation, the highest recognition for nursing excellence in healthcare.
Long Island Jewish Valley Stream Hospital is seeking the prestigious Magnet designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center, a recognition considered the highest standard of nursing excellence in healthcare.
The Magnet Recognition Program honors organizations that meet rigorous, evidence-based criteria for delivering quality patient care by outstanding nursing staff.
“We are honored to welcome the American Nurses Credentialing Center to Long Island Jewish Valley Stream as we demonstrate the exceptional dedication, collaboration and excellence of our nursing team,” Renee Sanchez, RN, director of patient care services, Magnet Program, Nursing Quality, at LIJVS, said. “This visit towards Magnet designation is not just a milestone, it’s a testament to the commitment our nurses make every day, delivering high-level compassionate care to our community.”
As part of the application process, the hospital invites patients, family members, staff and community members to provide feedback. Comments can be submitted by
email or mail and must be received by Sept. 21. To ensure confidentiality, please submit anonymous comments in writing directly to the Magnet Program Office. All feedback will remain confidential and will not be shared with the hospital.
Responses may be sent to Marguerite Smalls at the American Nurses Association Magnet Recognition Program Office, 8403 Colesville Road, Suite 500, Silver Spring, MD 20910, or emailed to magnet@ ana.org.
Magnet recognition highlights the critical role nurses play across all healthcare settings worldwide. The designation promotes nurse engagement and underscores the impact nurses have in improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.
For more information or the hospital and its programs, visit valleystream. northwell.edu.
— Angelina Zingariello
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By JORDAN VALLONE, RENEE DeLORENZO & AINSLEY MARTINEZ of Herald Community Newspapers
First in a series about housing on Long Island.
On Long Island, where the cost of living continues to climb, the term “affordable housing” is often misunderstood — or dangerously oversimplified.
According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, housing is considered affordable if it costs no more than 30 percent of a household’s gross income. But even in Nassau and Suffolk counties, where the median household income hovers around $125,000, many families find themselves priced out of both the rental and homeownership markets.
This series — “Priced Out: the Fight for Affordable Housing” — begins by laying the groundwork: breaking down terms like “affordable” and “low-income” housing, and clarifying how programs like Section 8 fit in. It also examines who is impacted — not only low-income residents, but also middle-class workers, retirees on fixed incomes, and young adults trying to remain in the communities where they grew up.
Through interviews with housing experts and advocates, and an analysis of Long Island housing data, this first installment provides context to help readers understand the scale and complexity of the crisis — and sets the stage for further installments in the weeks ahead.
Understanding affordable housing, and how Long Island measures up
According to HUD, “affordable housing” means housing that is affordable for people with low to moderate incomes. The definition of “low income” is based on Area Median Income, or AMI, which varies by region and household size.
Affordable housing should cost no more than 30 percent of a household’s monthly income — whether that’s rent and utilities for renters, or mortgage and housing expenses for homeowners. Households spending more than that are considered “cost burdened,” with many forced to sacrifice other essentials like food, transportation and health care.
A 2024 report by State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli found that nearly 3 million New York households spend more than 30 percent of their income on housing. One in five households experiences a “severe cost burden,” devoting more than half of their income to housing.
On Long Island, 36 percent of households fall into the cost-burdened category.
Programs like Section 8 — part of the public housing system administered by HUD — provide housing assistance for low-income residents. Eligibility varies by location, as does the availability of units.
Long Island is grappling with an affordable-housing crisis. The high cost of homes and high rent
make it nearly impossible for many people to find housing — an issue that has many causes. Above,
Freeport is an affordable-housing community, but experts contend that there is a need for
Racism, said that the housing crisis disproportionately impacts minority communities due to extensive segregation in Long Island’s housing market. She added that there is often an implicit bias among residents about who affordable housing is designed to serve.
“It isn’t just about welfare,” Taylor said.
On Long Island, some village or town-level housing authorities administer public housing and Section 8 programs, though inventory is usually small or seniorfocused, according to information from the Long Island Center for Independent Living.
What do experts have to say?
Hunter Gross, vice president of the Huntington Township Housing Coalition — which advocates for the Long Island Housing Coalition — said that Long Island’s housing crisis touches a wide range of residents.
“The affordable housing crisis on Long Island is affecting you unless you’re rich,” Gross said simply. “It’s affecting most people, regardless of ethnicity, skin color and profession.”
April Francis Taylor, acting president of ERASE
Many families — particularly in communities of color — have not had the economic opportunity to accumulate generational wealth, Taylor explained. That wealth is often passed down in the form of cash, investments or property.
Those who have never owned homes are still playing catch-up, she said. And the harder it is for them to purchase homes, the harder it becomes to improve their economic conditions. This reinforces the need for fair housing in achieving racial equity, a key mission of ERASE Racism.
“There’s generational things, there’s racial things — the economic piece of those is huge,” Taylor said.
One of the policies that helps address the issue, Gross explained, is inclusionary zoning, which sets aside a portion of apartment units at below market rates.
Currently, Long Island has income-restricted rental housing funded by low-income tax credits, as well as workforce housing, Section 8 housing and senior affordable housing developments. But, Gross said, there is not nearly enough of it.
Expanding the types of affordable housing on Long Island — while increasing access to what already exists — is essential to meeting the needs of all demographics, he said. That includes building more accessory dwelling units, higher-density housing, and senior housing options, so older residents can downsize and make room for younger families in the market.
“It’s a domino effect,” Gross said.
Without meaningful efforts to make Long Island
more affordable, young professionals looking to start families are leaving, he added. The median home price continues to climb, making ownership less attainable. “There’s a mass exodus of young professionals because they can’t afford a home here,” Gross said. “We’re losing so many folks.”
When young people are driven out of communities, the National Low Income Housing Coalition states, it weakens local economies by shrinking the workforce and straining public services.
Expanding affordable housing, Gross said, would help lower housing prices across the board.
A 2024 study by Urban Wire, a blog by the Urban Institute, found that new housing construction in areas with less restrictive zoning laws resulted in lower prices — evidence of which was observed in Houston, Texas.
But that’s only part of the picture. On Long Island, Gross said, there are still many barriers to building affordable housing. Zoning laws, land-use policies and a lack of public assistance all need to be addressed comprehensively.
“The only way we can actually make a difference in this crisis is by changing our policy,” Gross said. “We can work with our town boards, but they have to be willing to accept the reality of the crisis that we’re in and agree we really need to start making changes.”
A Herald analysis of 1,052 homes currently listed on Redfin, a real estate brokerage website, across 27 municipalities in Nassau and Suffolk counties and surrounding areas reveals a regional housing market under pressure, with high prices and a shrinking pool of affordable homes.
Across all listings, the median home price was $809,500, roughly 9.5 times the median income, according to U.S. Census data. The homes averaged 2,161 square feet. Only 0.76 percent of the listings — just eight homes — were under $255,000, and considered affordable under a standard affordability metric, with prices no more than three times the median household income of $85,000.
Oyster Bay and Glen Head had the highest average list prices, more than $3.4 million, with their average home sizes nearing 5,000 square feet. Homes in the top 5 percent of the market cost more than $2.57 million, with several listings above $10 million.
The most expensive home per square foot was a 320-square-foot bungalow in Freeport listed at an eye-popping $2,343 per square foot, more than four times the regional average.
Other towns with high price-persquare-foot values included Sea Cliff and Oceanside, all indicating strong demand for smaller, high-end properties in desirable waterfront or coastal-adjacent locations.
A handful of communities — East Rockaway, Freeport, Lynbrook, Rockville Centre and Valley Stream— had
the chart above shows the median list prices of homes in 28 areas of Long island, based
Herald file photo
Zoning laws in local municipalities impact housing on Long island. throughout her term as governor, Kathy Hochul has tried to adjust laws to bolster housing here. She was met with criticism from area officials who campaigned to “Save our Suburbs.”
the only listings flagged as potentially affordable. Each had one or two homes priced below $255,000.
Still, these were outliers. In most towns, even entry-level listings exceeded $600,000. The average price per square foot across the region was $510, but several areas exceeded $600, making them among the most expensive for their size.
The gap between municipalities is stark. The average home in Oyster Bay costs nearly five times as much as the
average home in Freeport.
Despite the variety of housing stock, most homes shared certain characteristics: around four bedrooms, two to three bathrooms, and measuring between 1,700 and 2,400 square feet.
With prices elevated and affordability metrics strained, first-time buyers and middle-income families face daunting odds in securing homeownership on Long Island without substantial wealth or financing.
■ Affordable housing: Defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development as housing that costs no more than 30 percent of a household’s gross monthly income, including rent or mortgage plus utilities.
■ Cost burdened: A household that spends more than 30 percent of its income on housing. “Severely cost burdened” applies when more than 50 percent of income goes toward housing.
■ Section 8: A federal housing program providing rental assistance to low-income households. It includes:
■ Project-based subsidies tied to specific buildings
■ Housing Choice Vouchers: portable subsidies tenants can use to pay rent
Valley Stream residents took to Rockaway Ave. for the weekly Friday night Classic Car Show, on Aug. 8. This week featured the Mayor’s Trophy Night.
Cedric “Leggs” Ballah from Laurelton took home the trophy from Mayor Edwin A. Fare for his 1970 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
The weekly Classic Car Show is run-
ning until Aug. 29 from 6 to 9 p.m., weather permitting. It is in partnership with the Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce.
For more information contact Chuck at (516) 318-4816 or Dennis at (646) 235-2129.
Angelina Zingariello
By DiAnne Crown
The easy flow of conversation and discovery between parents and their young children invariably seems to stop early in elementary school. Why? Preschoolers and kindergartners, especially, find it difficult to remember the details and summarize a day’s experiences.
Older children may want to turn off school and think about something else, be too tired to talk or be upset about something they think will upset you. And youths are not only looking for the boundaries between what’s theirs and what’s yours; they may be even more concerned that you’ll judge, overreact or take over their concern or need. Here’s what we did to get the conversation started — and keep it going.
Start When They’re Babies
Build trust when your children are infants. When they cry, pick them up. When they babble, answer them. When they reach for you, reach back with a loving touch. When they want to crawl into bed with you, share special rocking time. Go outside and watch an excavator for a few minutes. Read a favorite story. Or play chase. Say yes. You will build lifelong love and trust with your children.
Build A Routine
For those fortunate enough to have it,
an opportune talk time is immediately after school at pickup, when the events of the day are freshest. Start as early as preschool or kindergarten. Let your children share during the drive home. You’ll both benefit. You’ll hear news of the day, and your young ones will have regular opportunities to practice sequencing and organizing information into a short report. Active, respectful listening will develop your children’s willingness to share and include details.
Start With What You Know
For an easier time learning about the social aspect of your children’s day at school,
get to know their friends through play dates. Then you can ask about specific friends and situations. “Did you and Lucy play together at recess today?” could branch into their successes or problems on the playground that day, any new students in class and so on.
Pay attention to teacher websites, homework, backpack items, sporting events and what other parents are talking about at school. And build on prior days’ conversations, perhaps asking, “What’s new with your group mythology project?” Starting with specific known topics is more productive than the open-ended “How was your day?”
Make lunch together, and talk about the day ahead. Keep a communication board on the refrigerator or by the back door, and run through the checklist of homework, permission slips, gym clothes and game schedules together. This will build your children’s sense of routine and readiness and provide good topics for table talk later.
Do what your children like, whether it’s a favorite video game, ball toss, board game or funny YouTube video. Fun experiences build memories, keep you connected, open the door for conversations on other topics and often become perennial favorites as your children grow up.
Listening and being present are important elements of communication. In an article by Claire Gagne on the Today’s Parent website, therapist and author Jennifer Kolari says: “When you’re really connected, your body is leaning in and your phone is down. You’ll find that if you do a really good job in those moments, they will come to you for the hard stuff.” If you ignore or brush off your children when they’re rattling on about the latest video game or a guest speaker who came into the classroom that day, Kolari says, you’re losing an opportunity to show you are a good listener.
Samosa III
By JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO jdalessandro@liherald.com
Samosa III, a Labrador-golden retriever mix nearing her second birthday, has become a key member of the Nassau County district attorney’s office.
The easygoing puppy took part in Canine Companions’ National Graduation Ceremony last Friday at the organization’s Northeast Training Center in Medford. The group was one of the country’s first service dog providers, and is celebrating its 50th year in operation. Samosa III will serve as a facility dog, bred and trained specifically to support people testifying in sensitive court cases.
She was one of 56 dogs who graduated from Canine Companions. On stage, her leash was officially handed off from Puppy Raiser Kelsey McGraw to Amber Kemperman, the assistant district attorney for the D.A.’s office’s Special Victims Bureau.
“We’re very excited to have Samosa in the Nassau D.A.’s office,” Kemperman said. “We’re excited to see her personality come through a little more, with how affectionate and playful she can be.”
As a part of the D.A.’s team, Samosa will be involved in many cases, helping victims of crimes process their feelings while working with law enforcement. “Samosa will be coming to work with me every day,” Kemperman explained. “She will be able to sit in on meetings and interviews with victims of domestic violence and child sexual abuse victims and provide comfort for them as they talk through the details of everything that they’ve gone through.”
Joseph D’Alessandro/Herald Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly, left, Assistant District Attorney Amber Kemperman and Puppy Raiser Kelsey McGraw celebrated Samosa III’s graduation last Friday.
great things. Being a part of this organization has just honestly changed my life, and I couldn’t recommend it more.
“Samosa taught me as much as I taught her,” McGraw continued. “I’m just so proud of her, and I couldn’t picture a better match and better fit for her than to work with people who really need her.”
District Attorney Anne Donnelly was a special guest speaker at the graduation. “These dogs will make an enormous difference in so many lives, especially my Special Victims Bureau,” she told the crowd of people and canines. “I am grateful for our partnership with Canine Companions.”
Donnelly praised Samosa as a dog with a gift for relaxation.
“She was paired with our Special Victims Bureau because of how easygoing she is,” she explained. “Those qualities are desperately needed when it comes to helping victims of physical and sexual abuse feel a sense of calm.”
The graduating class was made up of four-legged experts in over 40 areas, able to support people of all ages with special needs or disabilities, helping them live with a greater degree of independence. The dogs are provided to clients at no cost.
Beyond the graduates, the ceremony also celebrated a new chapter for two longtime staff members at Canine Companions’ Medford center. Debra Dougherty is stepping down as executive director, and Ellen Torop, a mentor trainer of 36 years, is retiring.
“It’s kind of surreal to think about the past year of my life with her,” McGraw said of her four-legged trainee. “When I look at her, I see a little three-and-ahalf-month-old puppy, and now she’s off to do really
McGraw, a volunteer trainer, raised Samosa through a program offered at the University of Pittsburgh. After she passed the leash to Kemperman at Friday’s graduation, she welled up.
“It was absolutely my dream job,” Torop said. “It was a beautiful marriage of what fascinated me about dogs, and also having an opportunity to feel like I had an immediate impact on people’s lives.”
year in local high school football. This special section highlights the teams,
players, key matchups, and expert analysis of what to expect under the Friday night lights. Don’t miss out, advertising in the Football Preview. Call your Marketing Representative today at 516-569-4000 x 250!
The Midtown Men
Former stars of the award-winning jukebox musical “Jersey Boys,” reunited as The Midtown Men, are back with their ‘60s vibe at Eisenhower Park. During their time in the mega-hit, Tony Award winner Christian Hoff, Michael Longoria, Daniel Reichard and Tony nominee J. Robert Spencer shared the stage for over 1,000 performances. These Broadway veterans, with their powerhouse band, are realizing the dream they brought to life as the iconic Four Seasons. The Midtown Men is the next chapter for these accomplished entertainers, making them the first vocal group ever formed by the principal cast of a high-profile Broadway show. Not only have they continued to win over audiences of all ages in nearly 2,000 live shows, their self-titled debut album, “The Midtown Men: Sixties Hits” was met with critical acclaim and garnered five star album reviews across iTunes and was followed by their first radio single “All Alone On Christmas.”
By Abbey Salvemini
Long Island Children’s Museum goes prehistoric this summer, bringing dinosaurs to life both in the exhibit space and on stage! Budding paleontologists have been digging into the exhibit “Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed,” where they uncover ancient secrets through real fossils and life-size skeletal replicas.
That prehistoric excitement leaps to the stage in the form of the museum’s latest original production. Newly installed theater co-directors Lisa Rudin and Austin Costello share visitors’ dino-fever and welcome everyone to “Unbox A Saurus For Us!”
Using the exhibit as its starting point, everyone enjoys what Costello describes as “a chaotic, interactive half hour of dinosaur comedy.”
For those who have yet to experience it, now’s the time, as show will soon be extinct — it closes Aug. 27!
The escapades actually begin within the exhibit area itself, where Rudin and Costello discuss the production and educate families about the fossil display.
“We wanted to do something fun, lighthearted and really interactive. We decided to start the show in the exhibit. We do about 10-15 minutes where we talk to kids and tell them about the show. When they come in, they get to go through the process of “un-boxing our saurus.” If they don’t come to the exhibit, that’s okay too, it’s not like you have to have one to understand the other,” Rudin explains.
The original storyline is based on the fictional eccentric Dr. Patricia Osiris, who works for the organization Dinorama. She’s set to uncrate a huge dinosaur she “discovered” for the museum, but misplaced her keys to the crate. She then calls out for help get the creature out of the box, encouraging everyone to use their imaginations. Each audience essentially carries out the remainder of what unfolds on stge by becoming problem solvers to assist scatterbrained Dr. Patti.
“The children have the power in that the show will not continue if they don’t play along,” Costello adds. It involves some creative improvisation, which gives each staging a special twist, depending upon the involvement of the audience.
“We do have a point in the show where we ask the kids to help us name the dinosaur. We also have a
• Aug. 20 and 27, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; Aug. 24, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
• $5 with museum admission, $4 members, $10 theater only
• Tickets can be purchased at licm.org/theater or at the box office
• Museum Row, Garden City
moment where they get to ask the dinosaur questions, and of course, Austin [Costello], who is in the dinosaur costume, comes up with some really good answers,” Rudin says.
One thing is for certain: the “Saurus” will always be unboxed one way or another.
“My favorite moment is when the dinosaur is finally revealed because people really don’t know what to expect. They don’t know if it’s going to be a puppet or a costume and we do our best in not giving it away until the moment so that’s a really fun bit. A lot of excited, happy screaming,” Costello shares.
Rudin, who also a teaching artist when not involved with her museum theater duties explains that she specifically chooses comedy — and material — that young children respond to effectively.
“I like to bring a lot of joy to our audiences. They leave the show having had a lot of fun and the parents have had the joy and the pride in seeing their child participate. It’s just a joyful, fun, happy experience,” Rudin says.
And there’s even more to look forward to — the museum is already planning a series of original stage productions inspired by its upcoming exhibits, bringing hands-on learning to life in new and exciting ways.
Saturday, Aug. 16, 7 p.m. Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, Eisenhower Park, East Meadow. Contact nassaucountyny. gov for info and updates.
day-only performance is part of the
Also don’t miss “Beezy County Fair: A Bee Tale,” a delightful stage adaptation of Gay Thomas’s heartwarming book, on Aug. 16. The story celebrates the power of working together toward a shared goal — all wrapped in a fun, fact-filled adventure buzzing with bee-related tidbits. The oneday-only performance is part of the museum’s annual sweet summer celebration, Honey Hoopla.
Rudin and Costello bring an energetic mix of comedy and imagination with an educational component to their productions, which introduce young audiences to live theater. The duo cultivates a joyful and engaging environment that encourages curiosity, creativity and laughter — leaving children and adults with lasting memories.
“Who wants to help uncover a dinosaur?” Yashaun Harris rallies young “paleontologists” for hands-on dinosaur fun during a pre-performance introduction inside the Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed exhibit.
UBS Arena explodes with the raw power of epic machines at Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live. “Kids” of all ages can watch their favorite Hot Wheels trucks come to life in Glow-N-Fire action. Everyone will enjoy the added fiery twist: pyrotechnic effects light up the arena. To make this show even more special, get ready an adrenalinefueled birthday party as the original monster truck that started it all, Bigfoot, marks its 50th year of entertaining fans. Of course, there’s so much more to grab your attention. Check out Mega Wrex, Tiger Shark, HW 5-Alarm, Bone Shaker, Gunkster, and the newest entry, Skelesaurus, the giant that unleashes his fossil fury. Fans can also witness a special appearance from a transforming robot, plus the high-flyers of the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks freestyle motocross team.
Saturday, Aug, 16, 12:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Aug. 17, 2:30 p.m. UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont. Tickets available at hotwheelsmonstertruckslive. com or ticketmaster.com.
The Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter welcomes summer with the return of its “Summer of Love” pet adoption program. Now through Sept. 1 all pet adoption fees will be waived, making it easier than ever to adopt a pet. Each adoption includes free spaying/neutering, vaccinations and microchipping. Additionally, there is only a $10 licensing fee for dogs. This summer, spread the love and provide a fur-ever home to these shelter animals. Check out the friendly faces of the dogs and cat before arriving at shelter. Browse photos and profiles at hempsteadny. gov/179/animal-shelter or on the shelter’s Facebook page.
•Where: 3320, Beltagh Ave., Wantagh
•Time: Ongoing
•Contact: at hempsteadny. gov/179/animal-shelter or (516) 785-5220
Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “At Play,” surveys artists’ perennial fascination with entertainment in all forms. Framing this topic between the nineteenth century Belle Époque and today, the exhibit includes works by Pablo Picasso, Reginald Marsh, Everett Shinn, and Max Beckmann among many others. The works are gathered to represent a wide range of expressions, from entertainmentrelated activities to the fascinating personalities involved. It encompasses dance, music, theater, movies, circus, boating, and beach scenes, along with horseracing and various sports, both active and passive Also featured are archival items from The Metropolitan Opera and the New York Philharmonic, including costumes by Marc Chagall for Die Zauberflöte, vintage fashion items by such designers as Alfred Shaheen, and iconic costumes from the FoliesBergère in Paris. On view until Nov. 9.
•Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor
•Time: Ongoing
•Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337
Admire vintage and custom cars at this free, weekly Friday night car show.
•Where: Rockaway Blvd.
•Time: 6-9 p.m.
•Contact: (516) 318-4816 or (646) 235-2129
AUG
15
Bubble Magic
Check out Long Island Children’s Museum’s Bubbles exhibit for some extra sudsy fun. Through playful,
For over 60 years, Frankie Valli has captured the hearts and souls of fans worldwide with unforgettable hits such as “Sherry” “Walk Like a Man” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.” Now Frankie makes his way back to New York on his farewell tour at Flagstar at Westbury Music Fair. It promises to be a poignant celebration of Valli’s legendary career, showcasing his timeless music and incredible showmanship. The original Jersey boy himself, Frankie Valli is a true American legend. Now 91, Valli is the only original member still performing with the group, which has been entertaining fans for more than six decades. His incredible career with the Four Seasons, as well as his solo success, has spawned countless hit singles. With unforgettable tunes like “Sherry,” “Walk Like A Man,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll,” “December ‘63 – Oh What A Night,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You,” and of course, “Grease.” His songs have been omnipresent in other iconic movies such as “The Deer Hunter,” “Dirty Dancing,” “Mrs. Doubtfire,” “Conspiracy Theory” and “The Wanderers.” As many as 200 artists have done cover versions of Frankie’s “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” from Nancy Wilson’s jazz treatment to Lauryn Hill’s hip-hop makeover. Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons have sold over 100 million records worldwide. They continue to tour throughout the U.S. and abroad to packed houses receiving nightly standing ovations from thrilled fans of multiple generations. Valli’s long-lasting career led to the overwhelming success of the Broadway musical “Jersey Boys,” which chronicles Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons incredible career and features all of their greatest hits. The 12th longest-running show on Broadway has been seen by over 30 million people.
hands-on experiments explore what makes a bubble form, what makes them pop and discover new creative ways to make bubbles. Stop by anytime between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to participate.
•Where: Museum Row, Garden City
• Time: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
•Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
Summer tunes
‘Have the time of your life’ with Dancing Dream’s tribute to Abba at Eisenhower Park.
•Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow
• Time: 7 p.m.
•Contact: nassaucountyny.gov
AUG 16
Silver Threads Art Exhibit Reception
Check out an exhibit featuring artwork from participants in the Silver Threads Art Program and the Adult Art Program at the Valley Stream Community Center. A reception with refreshments follows.
•Where: Valley Stream Community Center
• Time: 6-8 p.m.
•Contact: (516) 825-8571
Join wildlife biologist Nic Comparato to explore the fascinating world of bats at Old Westbury Gardens. He’ll guide visitors in learning how bats use echolocation to navigate the night and hunt for insects. Listen for bat calls with specialized equipment, search the skies for their silhouettes, and discuss their important role in local ecosystems and ongoing conservation efforts. All ages welcome. Free with admission. Space is limited; advance registration required for all attendees, including members. Rain date is Aug. 17.
•Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 8-9:30 p.m.
•Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
Families are invited to “bee” amazed at Long Island Children’s Museum’s Honey Hoopla. Celebrate National Honey Bee Day with a buzz-worthy lineup of activities. Meet a local beekeeper and explore the fascinating world of bees, from their ancient history and anatomy to their vital role in our ecosystem; take part in fun bee-themed crafts; sample different types of honey; also enjoy live theater performances inspired by the book “Beezy County Fair: A Bee Tale.” Reservations are recommended to reserve your spot.
— if only she can figure out how to open the crate it’s locked in. Along the way, the audience becomes key players in solving problems, sparking laughter and exploring the world of dinosaurs in a lighthearted “scientific” comedy that blends imagination and learning.
$5 with museum admission, $10 theater only.
•Where: Museum Row, Garden City
•Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; also Aug 24 and Aug. 27
•Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800
Family movie night
Enjoy a movie under the stars at Eisenhower Park. See 2024’s action adventure “Sonic the Hedgehog 3.” Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails reunite against a powerful new adversary, Shadow, a mysterious villain with powers unlike anything they have faced before. With their abilities outmatched, Team Sonic must seek out an unlikely alliance. Starring Jim Carrey, Ben Schwartz, Keanu Reeves.
•Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow
•Time: Movie begins at dusk
•Contact: nassaucountyny.gov
•Where: 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury
• Time: 8 p.m.
•Contact: livenation.com
•Where: Museum Row, Garden City
•Time: 11 a.m.-2:45 p.m., also Aug 24 and Aug. 27
•Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
Book Buddies
AUG
19
Monthly book discussion group for children in grades 2–3 at Henry Waldinger Memorial Library. The book title will be announced; books will be available for checkout at the Children’s Circulation Desk. For children in grades 2–3, registration required.
•Where: 60 Verona Place
•Time: 4-5 p.m.
•Contact: valleystreamlibrary. org or call (516) 825-6422
AUG
20
Young paleontologistsin-training are sure to enjoy Long Island Children’s Museum’s new stage production. This interactive theatrical experience invites visitors to join an eccentric paleontologist (a.k.a. “Dr. Patti”) as she attempts to reveal a neverbefore-seen dinosaur specimen
AUG
21
Each week in this engaging workshop, participants are introduced to hands-on materials, artmaking, and inspiration from artists and techniques. Young kids, ages 2-5, build critical thinking skills, expand vocabulary, and support imaginations as they play, create and explore. This week, experiment with creating drip paintings. $4 with museum admission.
•Where: Museum Row, Garden City
•Time: 11:30 a.m.-noon
•Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800
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.
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, FOR RESIDENTIAL ASSET
SECURITIES CORPORATION, HOME EQUITY MORTGAGE
ASSET-BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-EMX9, -againstKEITH MCNALLY, ET AL.
NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on November 1, 2018, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, FOR RESIDENTIAL ASSET
SECURITIES CORPORATION, HOME EQUITY MORTGAGE ASSET-BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES
2006-EMX9 is the Plaintiff and KEITH MCNALLY, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE at the NASSAU COUNTY SUPREME COURT, NORTH SIDE STEPS, 100 SUPREME COURT DRIVE, MINEOLA, NY 11501, on August 14, 2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 43 WRIGHT AVENUE, LYNBROOK, NY 11563; and the following tax map identification: 37-504-152. 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 LYNBROOK, TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, COUNTY OF NASSAU AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 010010/2015. Joshua Brookstein, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION
OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 154646
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
Place a notice by phone at 516-569-4000 x232 or email: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS AS TRUSTEE FOR RALI 2007-QS7
Plaintiff, Against
JEFFREY HARRIS, et al
Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 05/05/2025, 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 8/26/2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 19 Valley Greens 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 623 Lot 11
The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $791,620.29 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 012509/2012 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.
Scott H Siller, Esq., Referee.
MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573
Dated: 6/12/2025 File Number: 401-0282 CA 154759
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU
The Bank of New York Mellon FKA The Bank of New York as Trustee for the Certificateholders of the CWABS Inc., AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2005-1, Plaintiff
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
NASSAU COUNTY
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO WILMINGTON TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO BANK OF AMERICA NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO LASALLE BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR LEHMAN XS TRUST MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-19, Plaintiff against NORMEL JEAN-PIERRE
A/K/A NORMEL JEAN PIERRE, NORMA JEANPIERRE
A/K/A NORMA JEAN PIERRE, et al
Defendant(s)
Attorney for Plaintiff(s) McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840, New York, NY 10170.
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered October 30, 2023, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on August 26, 2025 at 2:00 PM.
Premises known as 1544 Vista Road, Valley Stream, NY 11580. Sec 37 Block 632 Lot 10.
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 and State of New York.
Approximate Amount of Judgment is $797,616.35 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 003287/2017. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and
foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”
For sale information, please contact XOME at www.Xome.com or call (844)400-9633.
Wayne Henry Wink, Jr., Esq, Referee File # 21-07722NY 154747
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF NASSAU
Wells Fargo Bank, National Association as Trustee for Securitized Asset Back Receivables LLC 2005-FR5 Mortgage PassThrough Certificates, Series 2005-FR5, Plaintiff AGAINST Anthony J. Graziano, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 1, 2016, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 4, 2025 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 41 Higbie Street, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Valley Stream, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 37., Block: 574, Lot: 5. Approximate amount of judgment $531,155.02 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #005364/2013. For sale informati on, please contact XOME at www.Xome.com or call (844) 400-9633. Janine T. Lynam, Esq., Referee Frenkel Lambert Weisman & Gordon, LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-059283-F00 86262 154882
LEGAL NOTICE
INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF VALLEY STREAM
123 So. Central Avenue Valley Stream, New York 11580 516-592-5105
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Public Hearing will be held by the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream at Village Hall, 123 S. Central Avenue, Valley Stream, NY 11580, on the 18th day of August, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.to consider the adoption of Proposed Local Law 12025 a Local Law to amend Chapter 78 of the Code of the Village of Valley Stream entitled, “STREET AND SIDEWALK OPENINGS AND EXCAVATIONS”, BY AMENDING §78-10 “FOR WORK UNDER PERMIT”.
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that all interested persons shall have an opportunity to be heard concerning the Local Law at the time and place advertised, or by joining the public hearing with the following ZOOM link: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/7148140969
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the proposed Local Law will be posted on the Village’s website and on file in the Office of the Village Clerk/Administrator prior to the hearing and may be examined during regular business hours.
Dated: Valley Stream, New York
August 14, 2025
By Order of the Board of Trustees
Incorporated Village of Valley Stream
JAMES J. HUNTER Village Clerk/Administrator 155088
PUBLIC AND LEGAL NOTICES…
To place a notice here call us us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
LEGAL NOTICE
Village of Valley Stream 123 South Central Ave Valley Stream, NY 11580
516-592-5105
PUBLIC NOTICE TO PROPOSERS
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Requests For Proposals (“RFP”) will be received by the Village Clerk of the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream until
11:00 a.m. prevailing time on the 10th day of September, 2025 at the Village Hall, 123 South Central Avenue, Valley Stream, New York. All proposals will be reviewed by the Department of Engineering. INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF VALLEY STREAM DEMOLITION OF MINI GOLF COURSE PAVING & INSTALLATION OF FOUR (4) PICKLEBALL COURTS AT ARTHUR J. HENDRICKSON PARK
Description: The Inc. Village of Valley Stream (the “Village”) is seeking qualified contractors to provide demolition, paving and installation of four (4) Pickleball courts in the A.J. Hendrickson Park recreation area. This RFP outlines the scope of work, project timeline and evaluation criteria.
Project Location: A.J. Hendrickson Park is located at 123 West Merrick Road, Valley Stream, New York 11580. Mandatory PreProposal Site Visit: No proposal should be submitted without a pre-proposal site visit. Site visits will be scheduled between August 18 and before September 10, 2025. Please contact Joseph Accarino, Dept. of Engineering at 516-592-5154 or e-mail jaccarino@vsvny.org to schedule the site visit or for technical questions.
Specifications: Copies of the Request For Proposals (RFP) are available at the Office of the Village Clerk, 123 South Central Avenue, Valley Stream, New York 11580 and may be obtained Monday - Friday during regular business hours 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. or by email at vsclrk2@vsvny.org or vsclrk5@vsvny.org. For questions, call the Clerk’s Dept. at 516-592-5105 or 5106.
Proposal Submission: Submissions must include a cover letter, a detailed project schedule, a detailed cost breakdown, a description of the Contractor’s experience and qualifications and copy of the Contractor’s license. Sealed proposals will be accepted in person or by mail to James J. Hunter, Office of the Village Clerk, Village of Valley Stream, 123 So.
Central Avenue, Valley Stream, New York 11580 until 11:00 a.m. prevailing time on the 10th day of September, 2025 after which time and date no RFP will be accepted. All proposals shall be submitted in a sealed envelope labeled with the title of the RFP and include Proposer’s name and address on the envelope. Each Proposal must be accompanied by a certified check, bank check or bid bond payable to the Inc. Village of Valley Stream in the amount of five percent (5%) of the gross amount of the proposal.
The Village of Valley Stream invites all women-owned and minority-owned businesses (W/MBE) to participate in the proposals on this project.
The Proposer will be required to comply with all provisions of the Labor Laws of the State of New York. New York State Prevailing Wages is a requirement. All proposals submitted shall exclude all Federal, State and local taxes.
Within fifteen days of the award of the contract, the successful proposer shall be required to furnish all bonds and certificates of insurance as prescribed in the proposal document. This includes a Performance Bond and a Labor and Materials Bond at least equal to the full amount of the contract price as security for the faithful performance of all Contractors’ obligations under the terms of this agreement. A 2-year Maintenance Bond will be required at completion of project.
The Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream reserves the right to reject any and all proposals in the whole or in part and to waive any informality of any proposals and also reserves the right to increase, decrease, or omit any portions of the contract. Subject to the foregoing, the Village will accept and award the contract to the lowest, responsible, formal proposer deemed most favorable to the interest of the Village of Valley Stream pursuant to Section 103 of the General Municipal Law
and qualified by past experience to satisfactorily perform the required work of the proposal,
Dated: August 14, 2025 Valley Stream, New York By Order of the Board of Trustees Incorporated Village of Valley Stream
JAMES J. HUNTER Village Clerk/Administrator 155089
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 49-2025
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held on the 5th day of August, 2025, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. -2025, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law No. 49-2025, to amend Section 197-5 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include “ARTERIAL STOPS” at various locations. Dated: August 5, 2025 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD JOHN FERRETTI Supervisor KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 155113
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD LOCAL LAW NO. 48-2025
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, pursuant to Article 9 of the New York State Constitution, the provisions of the Town Law and the Municipal Home Rule Law of the State of New York, both as amended, a public hearing was duly called and held on the 5th day of August, 2025, by the Town Board of the Town of Hempstead, on the proposed adoption of Town of Hempstead Local Law No. -2025, and following the close of the hearing the Town Board duly adopted Town of Hempstead Local Law
No. 48-2025, to amend Section 202-1 of the Code of the Town of Hempstead, to include and repeal “PARKING OR STANDING PROHIBITIONS” at various locations.
Dated: August 5, 2025 Hempstead, New York BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD JOHN FERRETTI Supervisor
KATE MURRAY Town Clerk 155112
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT.
NASSAU COUNTY.
BOARD OF MANAGERS OF DUTCHGATE
CONDOMINIUM I
A/K/A DUTCH GATE
CONDOMINIUM I AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF DUTCHGATE
HOMES OWNERS
ASSOCIATION, INC,
A/K/A DUTCH GATE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC., Pltf. vs THE ESTATE OF MARIE C. LONGOR
A/K/A MARIE LONGOR, et al, Defts. Index #603640/2024.
Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered July 10, 2025, I will sell at public auction on the Northside steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on September 16, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. premises k/a 1011 Willow Lane, Valley Stream, NY a/k/a Section 37, Block 672, Lot 15U, CA0271, Unit 1011. The Unit designated as Condominium Unit No, 1011 (the “Unit”) in the Declaration establishing a Plan of Condominium Ownership for Dutchgate Condominium II (the “Condominium”), made by the party of the First Part under the Condominium Act of the State of NY, (Article 9-B of the New York Real Property Law of the State of New York), which Declaration is dated the 27th day of February, 2014 and recorded in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on the 20th day of March, 2014 in Liber 13056 cp 397, as amended by that certain First Amendment to the Declaration, dated the 5th day of May 2014 and recorded on the 1st day of July, 2014 in Liber 13091 Page 1 (the “Condo Declaration”), and which Unit is also designated as Tax Unit 1011 on the floor plans
of the Condominium filed in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Nassau on the 20th day of March, 2014, as Map No. CA271. Approximate amount of judgment is $ 12,244.92 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale and the right of the United States of America to redeem within 120 days from the date of sale as provided by law. SEAN C. ACOSTA, Referee.
JAY L. YACKOW, Attys. for Pltf., 355 Post Avenue, Ste. 201, Westbury, NY. #102457 155095
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT.
NASSAU COUNTY. FNA DZ, LLC, Pltf. vs. FRANK LONGOR, et al, Defts. Index #608597/2024. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered May 23, 2025, I will sell at public auction on the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY on September 17, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. prem. k/a Section 37, Block 672 Lot (s) 15 CA 271 U 1011. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Foreclosure auction will be held “rain or shine.” If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the sale and the right of the United States of America to redeem within 120 days from the date of sale as provided by law.
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered August 10, 2023, amended July 11, 2025 , I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 16, 2025, at 2:00PM, premises known as 194 North Cottage Street, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 37 Block 146 Lots 3 and 4. Approximate amount of judgment $911,758.46 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 616430/2018. Karen C. Grant, 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: July 24, 2025 155051
LEGAL NOTICE
Approximate amount of judgment $390,428.35 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #611311/2018. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832.
Brian Davis, Esq., Referee Tromberg, Morris & Partners, PLLC 39 Broadway, Suite 1250 New York, NY 10006 25-001130 86422 155063
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE OF LSF9 MASTER PARTICIPATION TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. MICHAEL WOLKOW, ESQ., AS TEMPORARY ADMINISTRATOR FOR THE ESTATE OF MOHAMMAD ALFATIAN A/K/A MOHAMMAD ALFATIAN A/K/A MOHAMMED
Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, who represents New York’s Ninth Senate District, including Valley Stream, partnered with Green Acres Mall to provide hundreds of backpacks filled with school supplies to students in need before the start of the new school year.
ship. This initiative wouldn’t have been possible without them.”
CHRISTINE
MENDOLA GRILLO, Referee. LEVY & LEVY, Attys. for Pltf., 12 Tulip Drive, Great Neck, NY. #102439 155093
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU
Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee under the Pooling and Servicing Agreement relating to IMPAC Secured Assets Corp., Mortgage PassThrough Certificates, Series 2006-3, Plaintiff AGAINST
Yolene Masse a/k/a Yolene F. Masse; et al., Defendant(s)
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU CARRINGTON MORTGAGE SERVICES, LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST JACLYN CANNIZZARO A/K/A JACLYN M. CANNIZZARO, LORETTA CANNIZZARO, DENNIS CANNIZZARO, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered November 13, 2019, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 17, 2025 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 63 Garden Street, Valley Stream, NY 11581. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 39 Block: 408 Lot: 4.
ALFATIAN A/K/A MOHAMMED IMAD ALFATIAN, ET AL., Defendant (s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on June 25, 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 September 17, 2025 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 11 STATE STREET, VALLEY STREAM, NY 11580. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate lying and being at Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section: 37, Block: 621, Lot: 11. Approximate amount of judgment is $776,961.60 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 014491/2013. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Mortgagee’s attorney, or the Referee.
“This time of year can be stressful for families, especially those facing financial challenges,” Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick said. “Every child deserves the tools to succeed in school, and I’m proud to help provide that support. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Green Acres Mall for their incredible partner-
The donations were distributed to the Jamaica Square Improvement League in Elmont, benefiting children in the Elmont community, and the New Life Center, which serves families across Nassau County—the initiative aimed to help children start the school year prepared.
The effort is part of the senator’s ongoing work to support children and families throughout the ninth Senate District.
— Angelina Zingariello
For Sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. BRIAN J. DAVIS, Esq., Referee Roach & Lin, P.C., 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 185, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 155075
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Q. Our front porch is falling apart and we want to replace it, just as it is. The original columns are rotted at the bottoms and there are cracks where the columns were put together, vertical joints that appear as if the columns were made from many pieces. Is that common, that columns are made from many pieces? Do you have a recommendation for who can make new columns and what kind of wood is best? I’m not choosey, because they will be painted. What do you suggest? Also, I know you recommend getting permits, but I want to do the work myself, and it’s a direct replacement, so I want to just dismantle it and put it back. The roof concerns me most, so I plan to take a lot of pictures. Do you think this is as much of a problem as it would be if the porch were new?
A. So this is a column about columns. I remember working in a firm 40 years ago, when a renowned surgeon from Texas purchased 100-plus acres with a mansion on Long Island Sound, and I was assigned to design the additions and redesign the exteriors to be a modernized traditional shingle-style home. I was called into the firm’s principal, who chastised me for recommending synthetic trim and engineered shingles. The shingles I chose were pre-finished, and would still be performing well today, but instead, the house was finished in traditional wood, necessitating the expenditure of over $100,000 every three to four years for staining and painting. It was such a large expense that when I coincidently showed up 30 years later on that estate, to redesign for the new owner, they told me the surgeon grew tired of all the maintenance.
Wood columns are made in sections and bonded together at vertical seams. The sections are made from either steam-curved or shaped planks, cut to develop the rounded segments. You will notice that there has to be a space at the bottom to allow humidity and rain to drain and evaporate. Without that air space, the rotting is accelerated.
Because the columns will be painted, you’re better off with fiberglass columns, which come in a variety of shapes, lengths and styles. They are structural, and you’ll never need to replace them. Due to their stability, they hold a painted finish much longer, requiring painting only once a decade or two, but they still require an air space at the base.
The main reason for a permit isn’t just to have a piece of paper or cover the local government for liability should anyone get hurt. The permit process also confirms the replacement construction is safe and will last. The roof attachment, porch floor, foundation and how columns are spaced to transfer loads is critical. Incorrectly placed fastening, and a lack of structural checking and code compliance can create water problems and cause the replacement porch to require premature replacement. Just do things safely. Good luck!
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When voters passed a constitutional amendment in 2014 creating New York’s Independent Redistricting Commission, the goal was clear: to take politics out of the process and put the people back in charge of drawing their political maps.
But Albany is at it again.
Democratic lawmakers are now pushing a constitutional amendment to allow mid-decade redistricting — not because the law requires it, and not because populations shifted, but because it might help them win. Their excuse? “Texas is doing it.”
That’s not governance. That’s retaliation. And it’s dangerous.
Let’s remember: In 2022, the Court of Appeals resoundingly struck down Albany Democrats’ gerrymandered maps for violating the state Constitution. It was a clear rebuke. The voters had spoken in 2014, and the court reaffirmed their will.
And yet, despite already spending over $20 million of taxpayer money on
lawyers, consultants and failed commissions, Albany Democrats want to try again. They want to build a permanent partisan escape hatch into the Constitution — so they can redraw maps whenever it suits them.
This time, they’re declaring war. Literally.
Gov. Kathy Hochul recently called for dismantling the IRC entirely, saying, “This is a war … the gloves are off … we’re done playing nice.” She even hosted Texas Democrats who fled their state to break a quorum over redistricting — then floated that New York should fight fire with fire.
This is not leadership. It’s constitutional vandalism.
VIntegrity. Instead it became a $10 million deadlocked commission whose maps were ignored. Lawmakers seized control, chaos ensued, and the courts had to clean up the mess.
Now Albany wants to enshrine that chaos into law.
oters should choose their representation — not the other way around.
Let me be clear: I’m not a Texas Republican, and I’m certainly not a New York Democrat trying to hijack our electorate. I’m a Long Island assemblyman who believes voters should choose their political representation — not the other way around. I believe in decency, the rule of law, and the idea that these ends do not justify the means.
And if this amendment passes the Legislature, I will see them in court.
The IRC may be imperfect, but it was created by the people of New York with one goal in mind: stability. Fairness.
Let’s look at the price we’ve already paid: $7 million in outside redistricting contracts; $3 million in State Senate legal fees; $1.5 million by the Assembly; and $2.4 million in direct litigation costs. All funded by taxpayers. And what has this endless redistricting battle delivered? Confusion. Distrust. Broken promises. The only thing worse than politicians choosing their voters is asking those voters to pay for it.
I won’t stand idly by while our Constitution becomes a casualty of partisan warfare. And I won’t let Hochul — or anyone else — rip it up just because they’re losing the game.
What we need now is not another power grab. We need a peace deal — not between political parties, but between our elected officials and the people of New York. A ceasefire in the redistricting wars. A commitment to play by the rules we all agreed to.
Because if we don’t, the consequenc-
es will cascade: more lawsuits, more court-drawn maps, more public cynicism. And while Albany’s political class obsesses over lines on a map, the real issues — our affordability, housing, immigration, mental health, insurance, and rampant fraud crises — go unaddressed.
This moment demands more than partisanship. It demands principle. If Albany Democrats push this amendment forward, they will betray the voters, break the public trust, and ignite another political firestorm. And I will meet them — with legislation, with public opposition and, if necessary, with litigation in both state and federal courts.
To my colleagues, I offer a final word of caution, and a plea: You don’t defend democracy by undermining it. You don’t restore public trust by rewriting rules to stay in power. You don’t govern by declaring war on the very voters you serve.
Let’s put the voters first. Let’s honor the Constitution. Let’s broker a peace deal — not to help one party win, but to help New Yorkers win, and heal. I stand ready to fight, but more important, I stand ready to lead.
If this becomes a war, I’ll see you in court. But I’d rather see us return to decency, together.
Jake Blumencranz represents the 15th Assembly District.
For Mets fans, this year was supposed to be different
in early June, I was planning my October.
The Mets, whose record at the time was 41–24, led the National League East by3½ games on June 7. They didn’t just look like contenders — they looked like one of the best teams in baseball. Their pitching rotation was sharp, leading the major leagues with an ERA of 2.4. Their bats were delivering timely hits. And for once, the bullpen didn’t make me want to walk into traffic. It was, dare I say, fun to be a Mets fan. But these are the Mets. Fun is fleeting. Hope is hazardous, and being a fan is not for the faint of heart. And now, two months later, I’m left wondering what happened to the team that had me believing. Since that June date, the Mets had gone 22–31 as of Sunday night. That’s not just a slump; that’s a collapse. At press time, they trailed the Philadelphia
Phillies by 5½ games in the N.L. East and were once again staring down the possibility of a late-season scramble just to get into the postseason. Sound familiar? It should. Last year’s agonizing, stress-filled play-in saga added to my existing gray hair.
And the worst part? It didn’t have to be this way.
In the days before the July 31 trade deadline, the front office made moves — smart ones, even. Acquiring left-hander Gregory Soto and right-handers
Tyler Rogers and Ryan Helsley — all three are relievers — and outfielder Cedric Mullins.
Htheir heads.
ope is hazardous, and being a fan of this team is not for the faint of heart.
Being a Mets fan means riding the emotional equivalent of the Cyclone at Coney Island — except instead of screaming with joy, you’re mostly screaming at the bullpen. We’ve been here before: 2007, 2008, 2015’s near-miracle, 2022’s 101win team that fizzled in the Wild Card Series. Even last year’s appearance in the League Championship Series, just to lose to the Dodgers, felt like a cruel joke.
chises play meaningful baseball while we stew in what-ifs.
There’s still time. Two months remain, and the National League is crowded. If the Mets can rediscover what worked — if their arms stay healthy, if the lineup settles into a groove, if the new acquisitions mesh quickly — this team can still avoid the play-in.
They can still push deep. But those ifs are starting to feel heavier by the day.
They added those arms and a little pop to the lineup, trying to patch what was clearly fraying. For a moment, it looked like the front office had figured it out: Invest in the stretch run, avoid the one-game elimination trap and push for an actual run in October.
But good decisions in the front office don’t always translate into wins on the field. Injuries happened. Slumps happened. And maybe, just maybe, the pressure of being “the team to beat” got into
This year was supposed to be different. And for a while, it was. The earlyseason version of the Mets played like a complete team. Watching them was a reminder of why we stick with baseball — for the rhythms, the tension, the slowburn drama of a team finding itself. It felt earned. It felt genuine. Now? I watch games bracing for the bullpen to unravel in the seventh inning. I second-guess every swing with runners in scoring position. I wonder if we’ve already seen the best this team has to offer — and if we’re about to spend another fall watching other fran-
Baseball is cruel that way. The highs don’t last. The lows can seem to stretch forever. And sometimes the worst thing the sport can give you isn’t heartbreak, it’s hope.
The frustrations and stresses of being a Mets fan have no boundaries. Especially after a weekend series in which they lost three games to the Central Division-leading Milwaukee Brewers. A team with so much promise now must pick up the pieces, starting this week with a series against its annual nemesis, the Atlanta Braves. So I’ll watch, and hope the turnaround starts there. Because I’m a Mets fan. And that is what we do.
Established
We Long Islanders pride ourselves on our tight-knit neighborhoods — where we know our neighbors, care about our schools and keep an eye on the quality of life around us.
But strong communities don’t happen by accident. They take work, collaboration, and a willingness to roll up our sleeves when challenges arise. That’s where civic associations have a role.
Civic associations are the heartbeat of thriving communities, bringing neighbors together to solve problems, advocate for resources and foster meaningful connections. They are volunteerdriven organizations that give residents a collective voice and a platform for making changes. And in a time when so many people are frustrated by governmental red tape and feel disconnected from the work our legislators do, civic groups offer a way to take action where you live — and see the results.
Across Nassau and Suffolk counties, civic associations are tackling the issues that matter most to their residents: keeping streets safe, preserving open space, making infrastructure improvements, protecting the environment, supporting local businesses. They hold pub-
Nassau County isn’t a police state. ICE is just making it
To the Editor:
lic forums at which residents can question elected officials face to face. They organize cleanup days to beautify parks and playgrounds. They rally for traffic safety measures, improved lighting, and the repair of roads and sidewalks. They speak out at zoning board meetings.
These groups also help knit together the social fabric of our neighborhoods. Civic associations often host holiday celebrations, block parties, cultural festivals, and other events that bring residents together. They foster a sense of belonging that is too often missing in our lives these days, when it’s easy to retreat behind doors and screens.
When residents band together, it’s harder for elected officials to ignore their concerns. A single phone call or email might go unanswered, but a unified letter from a civic association — backed by dozens, or hundreds, of neighbors — commands attention.
Long Island has a proud tradition of grassroots involvement. Many of our strongest civic victories — from preserving coastal wetlands to blocking irresponsible overdevelopment — were made possible by everyday residents who refused to sit on the sidelines. They showed up, spoke out and organized.
Re Claudia Borecky’s letter in the July 31-Aug. 6 issue, “Nassau County is showing signs of becoming a police state”: Perhaps another way of looking at County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s reallocating 10 brave detectives to work with Immigration and Customs Enforcement is that they are being deployed exactly where they should be.
They will be removing criminal illegals and continuing to make Nassau County safe. Dismantling gangs like MS-13 and Tren de Aragua, which are transnational criminal organizations, is another move toward public safety. Under the current administration’s immigration policies, securing our borders will reduce the volume of fentanyl that has been flowing into our country. This will save many thousand of lives per year.
As a proud first-generation immigrant, I am all for legal immigration. But in New York state, there has been a burden placed on our school systems and hospitals due to mass illegal immigration. The cost of housing illegals was estimated to be well into the billions in 2023 alone.
The Democratic party of my father is gone. Replacing it is a party of open borders, defunding the police, defending criminals, the “green new scam,” men in women’s sports, DEI, election
And they did it not for personal gain, but because they cared about the place they call home.
Civic associations need new members to survive — and that’s where you can help.
Too often, a small group of volunteers carries the load year after year. Without fresh ideas and extra hands, these groups risk fading away — along with the community’s ability to respond to challenges.
If you’ve never been to a meeting, try attending the next one in your area. You’ll learn about local issues, meet new neighbors, and see how quickly your voice can make a difference.
In the end, joining your local civic association is about more than fixing a pothole or stopping a bad development. It’s about ensuring that Long Island remains a place where people look out for one another, where our neighborhoods stay safe and welcoming, and where the future reflects the values we share.
Your community needs you. Those who show up — in person, around the table, ready to listen, prepared to speak and willing to work together, will write Long Island’s future. Be one of them.
interference, and high crime due to bail reform. National Democrats claim to be the party for women’s rights, yet turned a blind eye to the fact that so many of the women crossing the southern border
under the previous administration were raped. How many people were complicit with the cover-up of President Biden’s cognitive decline?
As the policies of the Trump adminis-
aLaUra a. GiLLen
s the representative of New York’s 4th Congressional District, I am urging houses of worship across Nassau County’s South Shore to apply for the fiscal year 2025 Nonprofit Security Grant Program. The NSGP is a critical tool that provides federal funding to houses of worship and other nonprofits for security enhancements, including physical security infrastructure, emergency alert systems and certain contracted security personnel.
Earlier this month, I urged the acting administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to issue NSGP
grant applications for fiscal year 2025 during a hearing of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. I spoke directly with the acting administrator about how synagogues, churches and many other houses of worship and religious institutions across the South Shore rely on this critical funding to keep worshippers safe.
a
nd it’s an urgent need as we face an increase in hate and extremism.
After months of delay, I am pleased that the administration has finally made these funds available for fiscal year 2025. My office has already begun working with houses of worship across the 4th District to prepare their applications, and I encourage all those interested in applying for this federal funding opportunity to reach out for more information on the application process.
Houses of worship and nonprofits
tration start to take hold, we find secure borders, fair tariffs, lower fuel costs, multiple peace treaties, energy independence, and a renewed pride in the USA. The Democrats have tried to cheat, impeach (two times), bankrupt and imprison President Trump. I look forward to seeing the outrage and pearl clutching as the president presides over the country’s 250th anniversary, the 25th anniversary of Sept. 11 and the Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028. Coming soon, the hammer is going to drop on everyone involved win the Russian collusion hoax, with multiple mug shots to follow.
TOM O’CONNOR North Bellmore
To the Editor:
Under the leadership of Megan Ryan, the Nassau Health Care Corporation (NuHealth) experienced a revitalization that had been absent for over a decade. As CEO, Ryan brought back a clear mission and vision centered on patient care, operational integrity and long-term sustainability. Her approach to restructuring the finance department significantly improved revenue through more efficient billing practices. In addition, Ryan expanded access to care by extending clinic hours to better serve our community. She led a successful fundraiser to acquire a
must apply for the NSGP through the state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services. More information on how to apply will be available from the division. In the meantime, I encourage houses of worship interested in applying to make use of the Getting Started Guide, available on the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services’ website, to make sure you are prepared to apply.
I am committed to making sure that our religious institutions have the necessary resources to protect themselves so that every community can worship and practice religion free from fear. It is important to bring back more of our tax dollars from Washington to better protect our communities from terrorism and other threats. Securing this funding
to safeguard our institutions is particularly urgent as we face an increase in hate and extremism in New York and across the country.
As threats against houses of worship rise, the need for contracted security personnel has become a reality for many of our faith-based communities. I have also spoken with faith leaders in my district about the need to increase the ability of houses of worship to use NSGP funding for those personnel. While that funding supports physical security enhancements, there is a real need to help reimburse personnel costs.
The NSGP is a critical tool to help secure our houses of worship and other nonprofits. I will continue to work on this important issue, and look forward to helping these entities bring back federal dollars to keep our communities on Long Island safe.
Laura Gillen represents the 4th Congressional District.
brand new, state-of-the-art Mammography Van, and construction is now underway for a first-time catheterization lab.
Ryan’s leadership extended beyond the walls of the Nassau University Medical Center. When it was revealed that New York state owed NuHealth nearly $1 billion in Medicaid funding, Ryan took action. She organized and financed a bus trip to Albany, where she and NuHealth employees lobbied lawmakers — having previously testified at budget hearings — demanding the funds NuHealth was rightfully owed. Her advocacy for NuHealth and its patients also included standing firm against the Nassau County Interim Finance Authority, which proposed downsizing. She fought to protect both the workforce and the quality of care for the community.
Ryan’s previous efforts had ensured that NuHealth continued to deliver high-quality services to families, even in the face of political and financial pressures. Unfortunately, it appears that those efforts to stand up for NuHealth’s interests drew political retaliation. The proposed state takeover of NuHealth by Gov. Kathy Hochul, with the help of NIFA’s chairman, Richard Kessel, may be viewed as silencing a CEO who had simply been doing what was right for the people.
Ryan should be commended, not condemned, for her courage, advocacy, and dedication to the community and employees she served.
