Valley Stream Herald 08-24-2023

At Green Acres, volunteers fill 1,000 free backpacks

By NIColE WAGNER nwagner@liherald.com

As families struggle with the cost of living on Long Island, the Green Acres Mall and a host of volunteers came together last weekend to take away some of the stress of back-to-school shopping.

A thousand backpacks, packed by volunteers at the mall, were given away on Saturday and Sunday. The packers included PTA members and Girl Scouts, among others.

“This is a larger quantity than what we’ve done before, but we felt that the need was here,” Jill Bromberg, the mall’s marketing manager, said. “I didn’t have a single bag left at the end of the day.”

Each day of the mall’s second annual

Valley Stream library gets state funding

By JUAN l ASSo jlasso@liherald.com

This year, the Henry Waldinger Memorial Library alongside 196 other public libraries and systems statewide, will receive a lift in aid totaling $34 million in funding for their renovation and construction projects.

Project proposals cover a wide range of improvement needs, from general upgrades, like reinstalling security cameras, to minutely specific ones, like creating a temperature-controlled storage collection for at-risk books.

been plagued with spacing issues and in dire need of more computers.

According to library director Mamie Eng, librarians have made do with the current setup during the pandemic, but as patrons continue returning to the library, it’s no longer a sustainable situation.

“Right now, the reference librarians only have two workspaces with the two computers networked to our library catalog software,” Eng said.

MAMIE ENG Library directory

Back to School Bash, 250 backpacks were handed out. The event also offered family fun, as kids were entertained by a variety show, dance parties, glitter tattoos, face painting and balloon art.

“It was awesome — a lot of people came up to me and told me how happy they were,” Bromberg said. “Because not only did they get backpacks, they were entertained and the kids had fun.”

Several other organizations gave away the other 500 backpacks stuffed with the musthaves provided by the mall. The Gateway Christian Center, in Valley Stream, was given 150 bags to give away on Saturday. The center has done several backpack giveaways over the years, but this year it didn’t have to

Continued on Page 9

At the Waldinger Memorial Library, propping up a glamorous new adult reading room or expanding seating for patrons are improvements that will have to remain on the library’s wish list for the time being. This year’s funding of about $6,500 aims to make a conservative upgrade to the librarian’s adult reference office which, library officials say, has long

So, if multiple patrons come with a query about where they can find certain books or make a reservation, librarians can only handle two requests at a time, creating a backlog.

The project aims to clear away an old, pale-green storage cabinet hugging the back wall of the workspace, rid itself of awkward shelving, and remove any visual clutter sitting on top and around the space.

Additional computers will be placed against the side wall

Continued on Page 17

Delilah Roberts/Herald

It’s these small construction grants that keep us moving forward.

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Learn

At 30, an enriched educational summer

Valley Stream District 30’s Summer Enrichment program has helped keep students’ minds sharp and stimulated amid the summer hiatus from school.

Students in the Summer Enrichment program have been gathering at Clear Stream Avenue School to participate in highly engaging educational activities. A highlight for students is Edible Science instructed by third-grade teacher Jessica Price, which involved utilizing their science skills to make new creations out of edible materials.

PlayPattern hosts sessions focused on athletics and STEM topics, while perfect yoga poses are practiced in activities hosted by Fuel the Soul.

Inside the library, students enjoyed Lego Robotics by assembling robots and coding different tasks. Under the guidance of teachers Timothy Rau, Beatrice Bruno, and Darcel Franks, students’ robot creations faced off to see which can most efficiently complete their assigned challenges. Additionally, Yes Girls Create showed young girls the importance of being a leader and having a voice.

Bangladeshi culture is cheered at area park

At Eisenhower Park, alongside a free summer concert series at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, there has also been several evenings dedicated to celebrating the many diverse cultures and ethnicities that make up Nassau County.

It was Bangladeshi American Night on Aug. 11, and the theatre’s fields were packed with residents from across the county. The evening was organized by the Bangladeshi Heritage of NY, Inc., in collaboration with the Nassau County Executive Office and the Nassau County Department of Parks, Recreation and Museums.

The night included a fashion show, musical performances, and traditional cuisine. Sabrina Hossain, Sabrina Rahman and Nazrul Kabir were honored with citations from Nassau County.

The headlining musical performance featured Bindu Kona.

“The main attraction for this year’s event (was) the new generation sensation, the heartthrob musician Bindu Kona,” the Bangladeshi Heritage Inc. wrote on Facebook. “She won the hearts of the audience with her mesmerizing voice and performance.”

A dance performance was also put on by the Nritanjali School of Dance, which is located in Hicksville.

In the weeks ahead, there will be many more evenings dedicated to cele-

brating different cultures, including Ukrainian American Night on Aug. 24, Dominican American Night on Aug. 27, Turkish American Night on Aug. 31 and Latino American Night on Sept. 2.

For more information on upcoming events, visit NassauCountyNY. gov.

–Jordan Vallone

–Juan Lasso

Tim Baker/Herald

A map of a city represents several tasks to be completed by students’ creations in Lego Robotics.

Bill Windy/Herald photos Rahat, Ayana and Samyra Hossain attended the event at the Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre.

The event is co-organized with the Nassau County Executive Office and the Nassau County Department of Parks, Recreation and Museums. Sabrina Hossain, Sabrina Rahman and Nazrul Kabir were presented citations from the county.

Protecting Your Future with Michael and

Suzanne Ettinger Attorneys-at-Law

Book Review:

Healthy at 100 by John Robbins (Part One)

Subtitled “How You Can - At Any AgeDramatically Increase Your Life Span and Your Health Span”, Mr. Robbins’ book is one that appealed to us for a very specific reason. So many of our clients over the years have said, “Oh no! I wouldn’t want to live to 100”, the assumption being that they would inevitably be infirm.

Our culture, in television and movies, reinforces this thinking by portraying the elderly as feeble, unproductive, and out of sorts. Elders are demeaned with stereotypes as being unworthy of consideration or positive regard, according to Robbins.

Baby boomers today range in ages from 63 - 78. It’s time to shed these old myths. Author Robbins describes four cultures in the world as follows:

Abkhasia: Ancients of the Caucasus where people are healthier at ninety then most of us are at middle age.

Vilcabamba: The Valley of Eternal Youth where heart disease and dementia do not exist.

Hunta: A people who dance in their nineties where cancer, diabetes and asthma are unknown.

The Centenarians of Okinawa: Where more people live to 100 than anywhere in the world.

The major takeaway from these ancient cultures are the diets, physical activities, social ties and respect for the elderly these societies engender to account for their extended life expectancies.

Perhaps one of Robbins best lines is “the whiter the bread, the sooner you’re dead”. When whole wheat flour is refined into white flour here is just some of what is lost: protein 25%, fiber 95%, calcium 56%, iron 84%, vitamins, an average of over 70%. The long-term perils of eating too much sugar are discussed: obesity, kidney stones, osteoporosis, heart disease and diabetes.

It’s never too late to change. As the book says “people don’t grow old. When they stop growing, they become old”

ETTINGER LAW FIRM

Gunman leaves one dead, four hurt at illegal party

A volley of bullets rang out an unsuspecting crowd of partygoers at an illegal underage party at Ocean Avenue in Valley Stream on Aug 21 at 8:30 p.m., according to police officials. The man shot eight rounds from a semi-automatic .38 pistol, striking multiple people before running away towards the Queens border. The shooter has not been identified and his motive remains unknown, noted Detective Captain Stephen Fitzpatrick at a press conference earlier this week, as “the investigation is still in its infancy stages.”

A bullet ripped through the chest of a 21-year-old Brooklyn man who eventually succumbed to his injuries at a nearby hospital. A 12-year-old was standing beside the doorway of the venue when he was struck in the upper-left shoulder and was taken to a nearby hospital where he is currently found in stable condition.

Two 17-year-old boys from Elmont were struck: one in the rear of his leg and the other in his knee. They were both treated and released from the hospital. A 17-yearold girl suffered a laceration in her hand.

The illegal party was hosted at a rental hall at 85 Ocean Avenue known as Dopie’s World where alcohol was sold to underage attendees, said Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder. The police have made a concerted effort to monitor and shut down such parties which he says are advertised on social media targeting

young people.

The illegal gathering was advertised as a “Foam Party” on social media, offering the unlicensed sale of alcohol and free admission to girls in the first hour of the event.

“Every weekend, people advertise parties on social media to make a profit, selling alcohol illegally as well as other illicit drugs and substances,” said Ryder. “These are not organized parties. We shut these parties by getting ahead of it on social media and preventing them before they start.”

While officials admitted that parents and residents have issued past complaints on social media about such parties at the venue, officials argued the incident had slipped under their radar as the rental hall has hosted sanctioned parties before.

Commissioner Ryder said additional police presence will patrol the area around the venue and the county will begin a heavy crackdown of these illicit parties.

“To parents, we urge you to be aware of what your kids are into on social media, and where they’re going,” he added.

Anyone who has information on this incident is asked to call Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1(800) 244-8477. All calls are kept confidential.

–Juan Lasso

Nassau County Police Department Commissioner Patrick Ryder held a press conference regarding a shooting at a rental hall in Valley Stream on August 21.

Tim Baker/Herald

Clear Stream Avenue orients its new students

New students at Clear Stream Avenue School in Valley Stream District 30 are excited to start a year of learning after a warm welcome by the staff.

Students made their first visit to the building on Aug. 4. Teachers Sandra Aragona, Christine Pope, and Susana Valencia prepared various fun activities, including a chalk maze in which students jumped on bubbles, tiptoed along a flower stem, and took “bites” of watermelon. They also sat in the shade for a reading session and made crafts shaped like slices of watermelon.

Students took a group photo with their crafts after enjoying flavored ices to cool off from the summer sun. The orientation served to gear the students up for the school year with new friends from their peers and teachers.

Friendly neighbors

–Juan Lasso

Clear Stream teacher Christine Pope read to the students.

Photos courtesy Valley Stream District 30 A chalk maze challenged students to step along.

Duo celebrates their 700th performance

Court Street Music in partnership with the Valley Stream Historical Society presented its concert “Songs of Love & Social Consciousness” on Zoom on August 20 at 5 p.m. The concert was performed by composer Leonard Lehrman alongside his longtime collaborator, soprano singer, and wife Helene Williams. The concert will mark their 700th performance together.

The production is made possible with funds from the State Wide Community Regrant Program, a Regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and New York State Legislature, and administered by the Huntington Arts Council.

Lehrman and Williams have been working together since 1987 including concert tours of Australia, Israel, Russia, Belarus, France, Italy, Germany, and throughout the United States and Canada.

“We’ve done so much together, been through so much together, and been to so many places together,” said Lehrman. “I literally have written over 200

pieces for her, and she has done most of them. She recorded most of them and now we have 4,000 videos up on YouTube.”

“I feel like I am very lucky having married a wonderful composer who actually, totally loves my voice and loves me,” said Williams. “I have a lot of fun doing a tremendous variety of stuff that he writes, lots of serious stuff, some political stuff, and he asks for my advice which is also lovely.”

The Zoom concert, which took place on Lehrman’s birthday, also serves as something of a retrospective of the composer’s prolific work, featuring some of his most notable pieces as well as some newly composed songs.

“I am going to be 74 years old, so there will be 74 minutes of music,” said Lehrman in the lead-up to the performance.

For further information about future concerts and events, call (516) 825-2939 or send an email to helenespierman@gmail.com.

–Stacey Taylor

Courtesy Helene Williams

Valley Stream composer Leonard Lehrman alongside his wife and longtime collaborator Helene Williams presented their 700th concert performance “Songs of Love & Social Consciousness” over Zoom on August 20.

I feel like I am very lucky having married a wonderful composer who actually, totally loves my voice and loves me.

Helene WIllIams opera collaborator

BEST ADULT ED-CONTINUING EDUCATION & BEST COLLEGE / UNIVERSITY: Molloy University

1000 Hempstead Ave, Rockville Centre (516) 323-3000

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With more than 50 academic undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degree programs at Molloy, a multidimensional college committed to student success. Small classes allow students to think critically, explore their creativity and engage in a more focused group. Combining leadership, academic excellence and passionate mentoring, students are able to thrive. From international studies, service opportunities and more than 60 clubs and honor societies, internships, NCAA Division II sports teams and so much more.

BEST BEAUTY SCHOOL:

Nassau BOCES Joseph M. Barry Career & Technical Education Center

1196 Prospect Ave, Westbury (516) 622-6800

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A key resource in the state, Nassau BOCES offers life changing state-of-the-art programs for students of all ages with any ability. It is a cost-effective way to gain an education in specific fields and gain hands-on experience that is useful for future careers. They also have a Long Island High School for the Arts, special education programs and even outdoor education.

BEST DRIVING SCHOOL: Prosperity Auto Driving School, Inc.

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The knowledgeable, highly skilled and patient instructors at Prosperity Auto Driving School can teach you and your loved ones how to drive safely and defensively. They are specialized in nervous and first-time beginner students. From private 45-minute lessons and refresher courses, to pre-licensing class, written/road test services, free road test evaluation and free door to door service with each lesson available 7 days a week.

LONG ISLAND’S BEST IN EDUCATION

Choice

BEST COLLEGE PREP SERVICES & ADVISORS: Pinnacle College Consultants

173 Woodbine Rd, Roslyn Heights (516) 484-0629

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The mission of Pinnacle College Consultants is to empower high school students to excel in the college or job application process. Through one-on-one coaching, students are taught the life skills required to make the best first impression via a written essay or resume or face-to-face interview. All of their services begin with brand positioning—helping the student develop their unique “elevator speech” or personal story to convey to colleges or potential employers.

BEST CHARTER / PAROCHIAL / PRIVATE SCHOOL:

Lawrence Woodmere Academy

336 Woodmere Blvd, Woodmere (516) 374-9000

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Lawrence Woodmere Academy, established over a century ago, offers all the benefits of a private school at an affordable cost from preschool to 12th grade. The academy offers one on one college prep and placement, a 5:1 student to faculty ratio in classes meaning that each student receives individualized attention. Their curriculum is part of the world renowned “Project Lead the Way” and the school culture is racially, ethnically and socio-economically diverse, with each student’s needs being met.

BEST LEARNING CENTER / TUTOR:

Cornerstone Behavioral Services

136 Washington Ave, Cedarhurst (516) 569-0808

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Cornerstone Behavioral Services was started by Nicole Iannarone, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Nicole has worked with a wide array of learners and has been successful in treating challenging behaviors as well as helping learners develop language skills. . Their team of Bachelors Level Behavior Therapists, Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs), and Board Certified Behavior Analysts possess a well rounded understanding of behavior analysis and techniques.

BEST DAY CARE:

Five Towns Early Learning Center

112 Wahl Ave, Inwood (516) 239-4660

www.fivetownselc.org

Five Towns is one of the oldest child care centers in Nassau County, established in the 1930s as a private care center. The center has cared for the children of working parents for well over 70 years, providing stimulation, education, breakfast and afternoon snacks and so much more. They have also created a scholarship fund with the support of the local community

BEST NURSERY SCHOOL:

Bellmore United Methodist Nursery School

2657 Clarendon Ave, Bellmore (516) 221-1220

www.bellmoreumc.org

Bellmore United Methodist’s goal is to provide an environment that is stimulating and engaging that way children develop socialization skills and confidence. Children are meant to feel good about themselves and want to go to school. The faculty focuses on ensuring that their first school experience is positive and enjoyable. For pre-kindergarten students there are additional enrichment classes from language and literature to science and math and more.

Nassau C.C. eyes return to title stage

By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com

Getting back to the national championship stage and winning it are lofty goals, but Nassau Community College football coach Jamel Ramsay wouldn’t have it any other way.

“Last season was a bit of a rebuild with some guys who hadn’t played ball for two years,” Ramsay said. “Our defense kept us close every week, but we didn’t put everything together some games. We still finished ranked in the top five and now we’re looking to get back to the championship game and win it.”

The Lions went 6-4 with three one-score defeats in 2022. This year’s schedule features many of the usual suspects and Ramsay is excited about the return of Navy prep and Army prep to the slate. “Those two games are really good tests and experiences for our guys,” he said. “I like the schedule much more than last year’s.”

Four of Nassau’s first five games are home at Mitchel Athletic Complex. The Lions open Sept. 2 against Monroe College and close the month Sept. 30 against Hocking College. The lone trip of September is to Hudson Valley C.C. on the 16th.

Some new key faces to the offense are former Nassau County high school standouts Kevon Hall (Roosevelt running back) and William Pickett (South Side quarterback.)

In 2018, Hall captured the Thorp Award, given to the most outstanding player in the county. He rushed for

2023 Schedule

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over 2,000 yards and scored 22 touchdowns for the Rough Riders as a senior. “Everyone knows who Kevon is,” Ramsay said. “He’s a definite game-changer even though he hasn’t played a snap in two years. He has a lot of tools and he’ll be raring to go game one.”

Pickett is a dual-threat quarterback who played one season at Cortland and was redshirted in 2022. Ramsay said he recruited Pickett out of high school and is “overly excited” to see him get to work. “He brings a combination of tenacity, speed and power,” Ramsay said. “Most

people think of someone’s legs when they talk about dual-threat quarterbacks, but Will can really throw the ball. He has big-time leadership qualities and the sky’s the limit.”

Ramsay believes the offensive line is one of the Lions’ top position groups. It includes Jordy Garcia, Kasper Borawski, Matthew Blanco, Christian Sollecito, Ethan Bonachi, Kenroy Hutchinson and Max Adams. “They’re all talented,” Ramsay said.

Freshman tight end Alex Simmonds has turned heads in camp and at 6-6 with speed comparable to some wideouts, Ramsay sees him as an “absolute factor” in the offense. “He’s been a pleasure to watch,” the coach noted. “He has tremendous blocking ability and potential to be something special.”

At receiver, Isaiah Madrey is looking to make a splash after appearing in four games last season. Also expected to be a lead target for Pickett is former Uniondale standout Kayden Liddie.

On the defensive side, the work in the trenches will be led by Daeshaun Polk, who ranked among the team leaders in tackles for loss last fall and also had 2.5 sacks, and nose guard Cesar Villanueva. Glen Cove product Anthony Schettino heads the linebacker corps, while the secondary is likely to have Chris Hernandez and Miguel Lopez at corner, and Sonny Mayo and Kamari Maths at safety.

Kicker Tom Zabransky was a Second Team All-American selection last season, and newcomer Tommy Dellaporta will handle punting responsibilities.

Tony Bellissimo/Herald photos

Roosevelt’s Kevon Hall, a Nassau County Thorp Award winner, is primed to lead Nassau Community College’s backfield. William Pickett, a South Side High School graduate at right, takes over as the Lions’ starting quarterback.

Back-to-school drive benefits bevy of students

supply them because they were donated by the mall.

“Every time we (gave away backpacks) we were able to see participation from different demographic groups in the community who usually don’t come into a church,” the Christian Center’s pastor, the Rev. Sunny Philip, said.

At this time, especially when we’re talking about a time when there’s an affordability crisis and every dollar counts for families . . . they’re provided with a backpack.

The event at the center also featured familyfriendly events including a barbecue, live music, raffles, a waterslide and face painting.

Participants were asked to register before picking up a backpack to ensure that no one would leave empty-handed if supplies ran out. More than 100 people preregistered for the giveaway.

MichAelle Sol AgeS Assemblywoman

Both events were cosponsored by Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages’ office after the mall reached out to her to collaborate on advertising for the giveaways. Interns from Solages’ office also helped stuff the backpacks at the mall.

“We work with these groups because it’s so important that students are pro-

vided with not only the basic tools that they need for school, but also encouraged to celebrate this new year and new opportunities to excel,” Solages said.

For anyone who missed out on the giveaways, a Back in School giveaway and auto show will be held at UBS Arena on Sept. 10, from noon to 5 p.m. People are asked to register for the back-

pack giveaway online beforehand, but all are welcome to enjoy the activities.

“At this time, especially when we’re talking about a time when there’s an affordability crisis and every dollar counts for families, we want to make sure that when a family comes to the event, they’re provided with a backpack,” Solages said. “We don’t want to turn anyone away.”

Connect

• Targeted Advertising: Reach engaged fans, families, and residents. • Unlock Potential: Convert event buzz into sales and heightened brand recognition.

Shanzay, Shahnoor, ahmed and eshal Khan, ages 9, 5, 4 and 6, cooled off on the water slide at the Christian Center.

Delilah Roberts/Herald photos rayanna massia, 15, painted 8-year-old Brielle garcia’s face at the gateway Christian Center community event.

Raising money for her family in Maui Community members support one another through Hawaii wildfire disaster

By NICOLE FORMISANO nformisano@liherald.com

“Go! Go! Pack the important stuff,” Monet Baniqued’s brother shouted.

A couple of minutes later, the smoke had turned the day to night. The hot air stung their faces, and the smell of burning houses filled the air. Baniqued and her family had no choice but to leave everything else behind. They would never see their home in Lahaina intact again.

The Aug. 8 wildfires in western Maui took more than 100 lives, destroyed nearly 3,000 homes, and were “the worst natural disaster Hawaii ever faced,” Gov. Josh Green said. The financial damage is estimated to be $6 billion. The personal losses suffered by residents are incalculable.

Baniqued’s niece, Lynbrook resident Marian Cerisier, has started a GoFundMe campaign for her family in Maui. Baniqued, her husband, Johnny, and their three teenage daughters, Kathleen Chloe, 18, Keith Nove, 16, and Khimberly, 13, lived with Monet’s brothers, Emerito and Benedic Palacio, and their wives, Noralyn and Joey. Benedic has two young children, Emmanuela and Alexandra, ages 6 and 5.

The family emigrated from the Philippines to Hawaii in 2013. The house in Lahaina was the manifestation of Baniqued’s parents’ dream for their family. Now all that’s left is ash.

The fire

Baniqued was relieved when, at around 11 a.m. on Aug. 8, officials said that local bushfires had been “100 percent contained.” A few hours later, with no warning, no communication from officials, the terrible smell of houses on fire alerted them that something was wrong.

“Nobody warned us that we needed to leave,” Baniqued recalled. “We just did it ourselves.”

They managed to grab their passports and some clothes. Her daughters were sobbing, holding whatever they could, begging their mom to hurry up.

“We could not go back anymore to get more for ourselves,” she said, her voice breaking. “It was really dark already. The smoke, and the air, was so hot.”

The family members made their way along an evacuation route in multiple cars, but their vehicles were sent in different directions by police. The Palacios’ car was surrounded by fire on their way out, and Noralyn thought those were her final moments, Baniqued said.

Her eldest and youngest, Kathleen Chloe and Khimberly, were in a car right behind their mother’s, but they, too, were sent in a different direction. “As the fires go, they were calling me,” Baniqued said. “But then the communication was cut — no more. All I heard from them was crying. ‘Mom, where are we going to go? Where are we going to go?’”

The Baniqueds didn’t find their daughters until the next day. They asked around, desperate for someone who had seen them. They came across one of their children’s schoolmates, who told Monet they were at the Ritz Carlton, where the

family was eventually reunited.

“I was so happy, at least I found them safe,” Baniqued said. “Because I heard already, some people went back and they were telling that there were so many dead bodies around the area.”

“We have lost our house, but all of us are safe,” she said.

But the Palacios’ young daughters don’t understand what has happened. They are begging the family to return home.

“It breaks our hearts,” Baniqued said. “How can we bring them home if the happy home we had turned to ash?”

The aftermath

According to Raya Salter, an attorney who sits on the New York State Climate Action Council and once lived on Oahu, where he working for the Hawaii state legislature, the state was woefully under-

prepared to deal with such powerful wildfires — despite the fact that state officials knew that such an event was likely.

“They’ve said it in their filings and in their public statements,” Salter said. “This wildfire risk is significant, imminent.”

Where the official response failed, people are stepping up. “There are a lot of local people that are obviously not happy with the action taken,” said Brad Starks, who has lived on Maui for 14 years. “Local citizens on the west side, they’re the ones pulling the bodies out of the water, not the FEMA guys.”

A filmmaker, Starks sent a drone into the air to catch a glimpse of the landscape the night of Aug. 8. “It was literally like hell on earth coming toward us,” he said.

The destruction he has seen in the days since is devastating. “The entire

infrastructure of the west side is completely obliterated,” Starks said. “All the gas stations exploded. There is no power.”

He and his coworkers turned their production headquarters into a donation center. Everywhere, it seemed, someone was doing whatever they could to help their neighbors. That, Starks said, is the true aloha spirit.

“We all just have to take care of each other,” he said.

“It’s a very strong community,” Baniqued said. “The aloha spirit is here. No one should be left behind.”

Nonetheless, the future remains uncertain for those whose lives have been upended. When Benedic Palacio went back to see the family’s house a few days later, he returned in tears. His equipment for his small construction business had all turned to ash.

Baniqued and her family have been staying at her workplace, resort Montage Kapalua, since the fire. She has been spending her days helping prepare food for other families to keep her mind occupied, she said.

“After that, I’m staring at the wall, thinking, ‘What’s going to happen after my workplace will not be able to accommodate us anymore? Where are we going to go?’”

Kathleen Chloe, who was the valedictorian of her high school class, told her mother she would understand if her parents couldn’t send her to college anymore. But the family is determined to move forward.

More than anything else, Baniqued’s daughters and nieces just want their home back. That, above all else, is what Baniqued hopes Cerisier’s fundraiser can help them with.

“All they want is to rebuild the house and live together again,” she said. “And build a stronger one. A stronger family.”

Courtesy Brad Starks

Starks and his coworkers turned their production headquarters into a donation center.

Courtesy Monet Baniqued

Nothing in Baniqued’s home was salvageable.

The Valley Stream Community Center’s Burgundy Room turned into an art exhibition by art students from the acrylic painting class on August 11.

Village art students hosts showcase

Art lovers and village officials gathered at the Community Center’s Burgundy Room to feature the artwork of amateur student artists from the Valley Stream Recreation Department’s Adult Art Class and the Silver Threads Art Program on August 11.

The annual tradition finishes off the

student’s ten-week beginner and intermediate acrylic painting classes with a public presentation of their completed work. The class is run by self-taught artist and village employee Matt Khan.

–Juan Lasso

Keith Rossein/Herald

Discount LIRR ticket from Far Rockaway

The Long Island Rail Road’s discounted ticket for travel will be available for Far Rockaway tickets, similar to the existing CityTicket, and will be available for purchase at the Far Rockaway station. Set to expand during the week of Aug. 20, the ticket discount was created specifically for Far Rockaway riders to mirror the pricing of the railroad’s discounted CityTicket available for travel only within Queens, Brooklyn and Manhattan.

“We are thrilled that our Far Rockaway customers will now be able to travel on LIRR for only $7during peak hours,” Metro-North Railroad President and LIRR Interim President Catherine Rinaldi said in a news release.

This is the first ticket ever created for users of a specific station; customers can buy them on the TrainTime app as well as through the station’s vending machines. Tickets are only valid on the day of purchase, but riders can take advantage of the discount on a same-day return trip by buying a round-trip ticket before leaving Far Rockaway. The branch includes Inwood, Lawrence, Cedarhurst, Woodmere, Hewlett and Gibson stations.

“The new ticket will make transportation more affordable for everyone at a time when many are trying to make ends meet,” State Sen. James Sanders Jr. said in the same release. “After fighting for equity for CityTicket for a long time, I am very glad we have finally achieved

our goal.”

The Far Rockaway Ticket debuts simultaneously with the expanding CityTicket to peak trains. Now, customers at any LIRR or Metro-North Railroad station within New York City can use CityTicket at any time and any day of

the week.

“For far too long, Rockaway residents were deprived equitable access to the discounted LIRR ticket available to all other New Yorkers for trips within the city,” New York City Council Majority Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers said in the

Metropolitan Transportation Authority officials announced Far Rockaway Long Island Rail Road commuters will be able to buy a discounted ticket after Aug. 20 to the praise of local officials.

release. “I thank the MTA for their work to extend CityTicket access to Far Rockaway, and I look forward to working with both the MTA and the community to build upon and improve this program.”

–Lauren Maggiore

Tim Baker/Herald

STEPPING OUT

frontman inducted into the Hall of Fame joins Long Island’s most elite musicians

By Daniel Offner

Robin Wilson, the iconic voice of the multi-platinum selling Gin Blossoms — and current frontman for The Smithereens — will join the ranks of Long Island legends Billy Joel, Joan Jett, Carole King, Twisted Sister, Public Enemy and countless others when he is inducted into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame on Friday.

“I’m very gratified and surprised and amused by the whole thing,” Wilson said. “It’s kind of funny to have ended up on Long Island and to receive this cool honor.”

As the principal songwriter and lead singer/guitarist of the Grammynominated Gin Blossoms, Wilson — who calls Valley Stream home — is responsible for such ‘90s-era radio hits as “Hey Jealousy,” “Follow You Down,” “Til I Hear it from You,” “Until I Fall Away,” “As Long As it Matters” and “Allison Road.”

Wilson grew up in Tempe, Arizona, and moved to Long Island in the ‘90s to be with his now ex-wife, Gena Rositano. He still lives here, raising his son, Grey Wilson, an aspiring musician and songwriter. “It took me a long time to get used to being on Long Island,” he says. “It was a tough transition. I’m probably the only guy on Long Island who flies the Arizona state flag on his front porch.”

He met Rositano in 1993, who was working at MTV at the time, when Gin Blossoms were invited to appear as a musical guest on the first episode of “The Jon Stewart Show.” Three years later, they were married, and had Stewart — by then the host of Comedy Central’s “Daily Show” — ordained as a minister in order to officiate the ceremony.

STEPPING OUT

Creative advocacy

Apart from spending time with his family, music is still the most important thing in his life.

“It’s the only thing that makes it worth it,” he says. “It’s cool to make a living and earn money, but the thing that makes it worthwhile is performing original music.”

Wilson is excited to be going back on tour with Gin Blossoms, who will perform at The Paramount in Huntington on Sept. 12, with guests Fastball, Tonic and Sugar Ray.

In 2017, following the sudden death of The Smithereens’ frontman Pat DiNizio, Wilson was invited to join the New Jersey alt-rock group on tour.

“The Smithereens have always been an inspiration to me,” he says. “If I could go back in time and tell my 19-year-old self that I would be performing with one of your all-time favorite bands, I’d probably ask if that was even possible.”

By Karen Bloom

Voyage

The popular band takes everyone back to the ‘80s when Journey’s timeless music ruled the airwaves. Hailed by fans and critics alike as the world’s top Journey tribute band, this group performs their music with chilling accuracy.

Fronted by Hugo — a dead ringer for Steve Perry — who continues to delight fans with his miraculous resemblance, exact mannerisms and identical voice to Steve. Fans agree that Voyage delivers an experience to the original Steve Perry-fronted lineup. The band also features world class New York musicians: Robby Hoffman, Greg Smith, Lance Millard and Dana Spellman, who along with Hugo, have brought the show to critical acclaim. They play all the hits, including, ‘Don’t Stop Believin’,’ ‘Faithfully,’ ‘Separate Ways,’ ‘Any Way You Want It,’ ‘Open Arms,’ ‘Wheel in the Sky,’ ‘Lights,’ ‘Oh Sherrie,’ ‘Stone in Love,’ ‘Send Her My Love,’ ‘Lovin’ Touchin’ Squeezin’,’ ‘Who’s Crying Now? and ‘Only the Young.’

Friday, Aug. 25, 8 p.m. $40, $35, $30, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 745-3000, or Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

Southern Rockfest

Pat McGann is quickly rising as of the sharpest stand-ups on the comedy scene. A relative latecomer to comedy, he began doing standup at 31 after realizing he was very good at selling packaging.

WHERE WHEN

• Friday, Aug. 25, 7 p.m.

• Saturday and Sunday, noon-4 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

When all concerts and live performances were canceled at the height of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, Wilson — like many of his counterparts — started to livestream performances from his home studio in order to give himself something to apply his energy and skills toward.

• $40 general admission/$35 members available at LIMusicHallOfFame.org, or by calling (631) 689-5888

• Emily Lowe Hall Gallery, South Campus, Hempstead. For information and to RSVP, call (516) 463-5672, or visit Hofstra.edu/museum

• Space is limited 97 Main St., in Stony Brook

“When We All Stand,” Hofstra University Museum of Art’s new exhibition, examines the collective power of the arts in society.

And when it finally was warm enough, he decided to bring his livestream outside, where he would perform music for his neighbors in Valley Stream.

“It was really cool to provide a much-needed distraction during that weird time in everybody’s lives,” he recalls. “It’s kind of cool to be the rock singer on my block in Valley Stream.”

Curated by Alexandra Giordano — the museum’s assistant director of exhibition and collection — the exhibit underscores artists’ civic responsibility and influence.

“It highlights the vital role that artists have in activating democratic values that promise equality and freedom, encouraging civic engagement, and cultivating unity,” Giordano says. “Artists often lead the charge and expose truths that may otherwise be ignored. The artists in this exhibition take a stand and call out injustices through their art and activism on issues such as immigration, gender, reproductive rights, mass incarceration, voting rights, racial bias, gun violence, and promises unfulfilled. They all combine the making of art with public service that has a grassroots approach in the hope of mobilizing their communities and the nation to ignite movement, create awareness, and inspire others to

During the upcoming Hall of Fame induction ceremony, he’ll hit the Exhibit Hall stage for a special performance featuring son Grey and special guests, including members of The Smithereens.

The Allmost Brothers Band headlines a rockin’ night at Eisenhower Park, joined by Freebird and Brothers & Friends. Allmost Brothers fully honors the tradition of the legendary Allman Brothers Band. Working within the framework of the incredible and vast songbook of the legendary Allman Brothers, the band injects something new, fresh and exciting into the material. They stand out with high-level musicianship, authentic improvisational interplay, and dedication to the high-octane performance and power that established the original ABB back in 1969. These dedicated musicians thrive on chemistry and improvisation, bringing a unique fire to Duane Allman’s vision of spreading the gospel of American blues, R&B and jazz music everywhere. As always, bring seating.

He hustled his way to become house emcee at Zanies Chicago, where he distinguished himself especially adept at working the crowd. A husband and father of three young children, McGann’s appeal stems from his quick wit and relatable take on family life and marriage. In 2017, McGann began touring as the opening act for Sebastian Maniscalco, moving with him from clubs to theater, to arenas, including four soldout shows at Madison Square Garden. McGann’s relatively short, but impressive resume, includes Montreal’s famed Just For Laughs Festival, Gilda’s LaughFest, The Great American Comedy Festival, and more. McGann still calls Chicago home.

Saturday, Aug. 26, 7 p.m. Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, Eisenhower Park, East Meadow. For information, visit NassauCountyNY. gov/parks.

Saturday, Feb. 11, 8 p.m. $40, $30, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 745-3000 or Ticketmaster.com ParamountNY.com.

Courtesy Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame

Robin Wilson, frontman of the alternative rock/power pop band Gin Blossoms, has settled comfortably into his lfe on Long Island.

Pat McGann

Can art change the world? It’s a question that’s been at the focus of our collective culture for centuries. Now as society navigates the complexities of modern life, art as a path for social change is at the forefront of artistic expression.

THE Your Neighborhood

Max Weinberg’s Jukebox

In the middle of the Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band tour — which breaking box office records all over the world— the heartbeat of the E Street Band, the Mighty Max Weinberg is taking time between Springsteen shows to perform with his Jukebox band. He visits the Paramount stage, on Thursday, Aug. 31, 8 p.m. Max Weinberg’s Jukebox is a truly interactive experience. Weinberg invites the audience to create the set list, in real time, that he and his crack four piece group will play that night. Performing songs from the glory days of rock n’ roll your guests choose from a menu of over 200 songs. Everything from the Beatles to the Stones to Bruce and The E Street Band’s biggest hits — and hear the group play ‘em the way the way the audience wants to hear them played! That’s right, the crowd yells out their choices and Weinberg plays them. This unique approach brings the audience right into the action for the evening. Every show is different because you — the audience — are choosing the songs. How many times have you attended a show where you yearned to hear your favorite performer play your favorite song? With Max Weinberg’s Jukebox your dream will be realized. $59.50, $39.50, $29.50, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 745-3000 or Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.

On exhibit

View the landmark exhibition “Modigliani and the Modern Portrait,” at Nassau County Museum of Art. Devoted to the way that Modigliani powerfully re-defined the art of portraiture, the show includes his masterworks along with paintings and drawings by his Parisian contemporaries (Picasso, van Dongen, Laurencin). Modigliani’s enduring influence on artists even in our own time is shown in a selection of Contemporary paintings by such important figures as David Hockney, Eric Fischl, Elizabeth Peyton and others. The exhibition is being curated by Dr. Kenneth Wayne, founder of The Modigliani Project, which authenticates paintings and drawings (two of the works in the show have been recently approved by the committee). Through Nov. 5. Nassau County Museum of Art, 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Civil War Encampment

Experience life at a Civil War encampment at Old Bethpage Village Restoration, Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 26-27, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Members of the 14th Brooklyn Living History Association and friends from other units demonstrate various daily routines of soldiers who were part of 14th Brooklyn New York State Militia during the Civil War years. Old Bethpage Village Restoration, Round Swamp Rd., Old Bethpage. For information, visit OldBethpageVillageRestoration. org.

Dramatic Play

Theatre Playground returns to Long Island Children’s Museum with “Dramatic Play!,” Monday, Aug. 28, 1 p.m., taught by Lisa Rudin, Director of Theatre Playground (who visitors may already know from her role as “Piggie”!). In this interactive, theater-inspired workshop kids will act out an original story and help choose how it unfolds. Music, props, and sound effects create a theatrical world where participants are immersed in the story. Children are encouraged to express themselves as they create characters, explore different worlds, stretch their imaginations and build self-confidence. This week’s theme: Silly Monsters. Costumes encouraged. Museum Row, Garden City. (516) 224-5800 or LICM.org.

Road Valley Stream, NY 11580 (516)

Indian

St. Jude Run/Walk

Registration is open for the St. Jude Walk/ Run Long Island, presented by Tweezerman International during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Sunday, Sept. 10 , 9 a.m., at Marcum Corporate Offices & Park. The St. Jude Walk/Run offers everyone a chance to walk or run and gather in-person or virtually to raise funds and awareness for the St. Jude mission: Finding cures. Saving children. Besides the walk/run, the event features entertainment, food and activities for the whole family to enjoy. Participants will even have the opportunity to connect with St. Jude patients and learn firsthand how their support makes a difference. 10 Melville Park Road, Melville. Register or learn more at StJude.org/walklongisland.

Pool Dance Concert

The village of Valley Stream hosts a pool dance concert at the mini-golf area at the Arthur J. Hendrickson pool on Saturday, Aug. 26, starting at 8 p.m. 123 W. Merrick Road. For more information, call (516) 825-4200 or visit their website at Vsvny.org.

American Legion Post 854 meeting

American Legion Post 854 meets, Thursday, Aug. 24, at 7 p.m. 51 Roosevelt Ave. For more information, call (516) 791-9719 or visit Americanlegion854.com.

Bible Study

Valley Stream Presbyterian Church hosts a virtual and inperson Bible study, Wednesday, Aug. 30, starting at 7 p.m. 130 S. Central Ave. For more information, call (516) 561- 0616 or visit ValleyStreamPres.org.

Village board meeting

The village of Valley Stream will meet for their regular board of trustees meeting on Monday,Sept. 25, at 7 p.m. For more information, call (516) 825-4200 or visit their website at Vsvny.org.

Classic Car Show

The Village of Valley Stream hosts their annual summer car show, Thursdays, Aug. 24 and 31, starting at 6 p.m., along the Rockaway Avenue business district. For more information, call (516) 825-4200 or visit their website at Vsvny.org.

Having an event?

Storybook Stroll

Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for a storybook adventure, Saturday, Sept. 2, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Stroll the gardens and open your ears to Mary Howitt’s classic tale The Spider and The Fly.” Later create a unique take home craft. For ages 3-5. Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information visit OldWestburyGardens.org or contact (516) 333-0048.

Items on The Scene 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 thescene@liherald.com.

Westbury House Tour

For many years visitors to Westbury House at Old Westbury Gardens asked what was beyond the first floor corridor. Now go beyond the door and discover “secrets of the service wing,” during a 60-minute guided tourFriday, Aug. 25, noon; also Sunday, Aug. 27, 1:30 p.m.; Monday, Aug. 28, noon; Wednesday and Thursday, Aug. 30-31, noon Be introduced to the intensive labor required to create the lifestyle experienced by the Phipps family and their guests; tour the many rooms that were “behind the scenes” to create the formal dining experiences of early 20th century. Go along the corridors to the butler’s pantry and silver cleaning room then descend the 17 steps to the kitchen, scullery, and wine storage rooms located on the ground floor. Reservations required. 71 Old Westbury Rd., Old Westbury. For information contact (516) 333-0048 or visit OldWestburyGardens.org.

Art talk

Sept. 7

Grab your lunch and join Nassau County Museum of Art Docent Riva Ettus for her popular “Brown Bag Lecture,” now back on-site at Nassau County Museum of Art, Thursday, Sept. 7, 1 p.m. Enjoy an in-depth presentation on the current exhibition “Modigliani and the Modern Portrait.” Participants are invited to ask questions at the end of the program and to join the 2 p.m. public tour of the exhibit. Also Oct. 19. 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. (516) 484-9337 or NassauMuseum.org.

Breastfeeding Support Group

Mercy Hospital offers a peer to peer meeting for breastfeeding support and resources, facilitated by a certified breastfeeding counselor, every Thursday, 10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. Bring your baby (from newborn to 1 year) to the informal group setting. All new moms are welcome, regardless of delivering hospital. Registration required. Call breastfeeding counselor, Gabriella Gennaro, at (516) 705-2434 to secure you and your baby’s spot. Mercy Hospital, St. Anne’s Building, 1000 North Village Ave., Rockville Centre. For information visit CHSLI.org.

STARTING FRIDAY AUGUST 25TH, 2023

APPETIZERS

Spinach & Ar�ichoke Rice Balls

Lobster Cream Sauce

Shrimp & Bacon Risotto

Entrees

Lobster Cr�sted Halibut

Ser�ed with asparag�s, cor�, Saffron Risotto, Cit��s Cream

Francese St�le Soſt Shell Crabs

Lemon Battered & ser�ed with Butterfly Shrimp

Over a Vegetable Saffron Rice (asparag�s, red pepper, onions, cor�)

Seafood Fra Diavolo

Paccheri Pasta tossed with clams, shrimp, calamari, mussels & a 6 oz. Lobster Tail

Filet Mig�on – Oscar St�le

King Crab, Grilled Asparag�s & a Béar�aise Sauce

45 oz. Prime Aged Por�erhouse

Ser�ed with Broccolini & Roasted Potatoes

Library needs more computers, more space

to allow librarians to easily switch workstations. And newly installed LED lights will replace the dank-yellow light fixtures currently hovering above.

How the state aid process works

“The heart of all of this is to make it much easier for the librarians to work more efficiently,” Eng said. The construction is projected to be completed between June and August of next year.

SALES EXECUTIVES

Direct

side sales and new business development best describes this dynamic and exciting position

Direct Marketing/Advertising to local clients

print advertising

dentify and develop new business relationships

Much goes into deciding what renovation projects libraries should apply for. Projects designed to provide accessibility for patrons with disabilities, for example, are given high priority by the state. So too are projects that will extend library services to residents in geographically isolated and “economically disadvantaged or distressed” communities.

Consult with clients on development and design of igital and print advertising

We offer training, a strong team environment, paid sick/personal days, vacation and paid holidays. Base salary with commission plan Sales experience is a plus

The amount of state aid received can vary widely from one library to the next based on factors like the size and design of the project as well as the individual service needs of the library.

We offer training, a strong team environment, paid /personal days, vacation and paid holidays. Base salary with commission plan Sales experience is a plus

Waldinger Memorial Library, a medium-sized public library in a moderately, well-to-do economic area, doesn’t receive any special funding consider ations. Therefore, the onus falls on the village to completely match the amount of money given to the library by the state, Eng said. It is a major reason why she often shies away from prohibitively expensive proposals.

“My projects tend to be small so that the village is responsible for only cover

the Henry Waldinger memorial Library was approved for $6,500 in state funding to renovate the adult reference office with additional computers and space.

ing half of the total project cost,” said Eng. “Some libraries may receive much It’s modest, “year-by-year” adjustments that make a big difference in the end, she added. “And each year we look around the library to see what project we can realistically do at a certain

It’s all part of a larger design change. Last year, Eng and her staff invested in knocking down a freestanding wall, that

Once a year, libraries apply for state funding to support numerous projects that could enhance accessibility, expand existing space, modernize computer technology, or upgrade electrical infrastructure. The board of trustees of each library prioritizes the projects and sends approved applications with recommended costs to the New York State Library in Albany. After applications are reviewed, they are sent to the Dormitory Authority of New York for final review and approval.

between the young adult area and study area, “which never worked.” She eventually intends to fill that extra floor space with computer stations for patrons.

“It’s these small construction grants that keep us moving forward,” she said. “It’s a lot about making things more efficient and computer accessible. And I think patrons will be happy with better

email your resume to rglickman@liherald.com

Or Call Rhonda Glickman 516-569-4000 x250 (must have reliable transportation)

email your resume to rglickman@liherald.com

Or Call Rhonda Glickman 516-569-4000 x250

have reliable transportation)

email your resume to: rglickman@liherald.com

Or Call Rhonda Glickman, 516-569-4000 x250

(Must have reliable transportation)

Keith Rossein/Herald

Public Notices

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK

INDEX NO. 614153/2020

COUNTY OF NASSAU

DEUTSCHE BANK

NATIONAL TRUST

COMPANY AS TRUSTEE FOR INDYMAC INDX

MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST

2005-AR14, MORTGAGE

PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES

2005-AR14

Plaintiff, vs. ISHRAT JAHAN SHAFEEQ, AS ADMINISTRATOR AND HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF SYED

SHAFEEQ A/K/A SYED

MOHAMMAD SHAFEEQ; HIRA SHAFEEQ AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF SYED

SHAFEEQ A/K/A SYED

MOHAMMAD SHAFEEQ

A/K/A SYED M. SHAFEEQ, A/K/A S. MUHAMMAD

SHAFIQ A/K/A SYED

SHAFEEW; SAMIA

SHAFEEQ AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF SYED

SHAFEEQ A/K/A SYED

MOHAMMAD SHAFEEQ

A/K/A SYED M. SHAFEEQ, A/K/A S. MUHAMMAD

SHAFIQ A/K/A SYED

SHAFEEW, if living, and if she/he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; CIT BANK, N.A. SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO INDYMAC BANK, F.S.B.; NU ISLAND PARTNERS LLC; DISCOVER BANK; MANUFACTURERS & TRADERS TRUST COMPANY; HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; BANK OF AMERICA, N.A. S/B/M/T FLEET NATIONAL BANK; THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; “JANE DOE” (REFUSED

NAME) AS JOHN DOE #1; “JOHN DOE” (REFUSED

NAME) AS JOHN DOE #2; “JOHN DOE” (REFUSED

NAME) AS JOHN DOE #3; “JOHN DOE” (REFUSED

NAME) AS JOHN DOE #4; “JOHN DOE” (REFUSED

NAME) AS JOHN DOE #5; “JOHN DOE” (REFUSED

NAME) AS JOHN DOE #6, “JOHN DOE #7” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last six names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, Defendants.

Plaintiff designates NASSAU as the place of trial situs of the real property

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS

Mortgaged Premises: 11 FAIRFAX STREET, VALLEY STREAM, NY 11580

Section: 37, Block: 438, Lot: 1124 & 1125

To the above named Defendants

YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you.

NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT

THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $372,000.00 and interest, recorded on June 23, 2005, in Liber M 28993 at Page 773, of the Public Records of NASSAU County, New York., covering premises known as 11 FAIRFAX STREET, VALLEY STREAM, NY 11580.

The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.

NASSAU County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county.

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME

If you do not respond to this summons and

complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home.

Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action.

YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.

Dated:July 19, 2023

ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff

Aric H. Peymann, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675

141100

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU WILMINGTON SAVINGS

FUND SOCIETY, FSB, D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT AS TRUSTEE FOR PRETIUM MORTGAGE ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST DHARMIE D. INDER, ET AL., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 7, 2023, 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 5, 2023 at 2:30PM, premises known as 208 DEAN STREET VALLEY STREAM, NY 11580 AKA 208 DEAN STREET, NORTH VALLEY STREAM, NY 11580 AKA 247-15 135 ROAD, ROSEDALE, NY 11580. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being partly in the Borough and County of Queens, and partly in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, DSBL: 13230 - 12 (QUEENS COUNTY), 37 - 4150384 (NASSAU COUNTY).

Approximate amount of judgment $382,521.71 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #602017/2019. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the NASSAU County

COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the court appointed referee will cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure

Auctions will be held

“Rain or Shine”. Harold F. Damm, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 18-002063 77013

140862

LEGAL

NOTICE STATE OF NEW YORK SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF NASSAU WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR CARRINGTON MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2006-FRE2 ASSET-BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, Plaintiff, v. JACQUELINE WILLIAMS, ET AL.

Defendants.

NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE

THAT

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

NASSAU COUNTY

JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff against MOHAMMAD SOOFIZADA, et al

Defendant(s)

Attorney for Plaintiff(s)

Fein Such & Crane, LLP, 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800, Rochester, NY 14614. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered October 25, 2016, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 13, 2023 at 3:30 PM. Premises known as 64 So Montgomery Street a/k/a 64 South Montgomery Street a/k/a 64 S. Montgomery Street, Valley Stream, NY 11580. Sec 37 Block 363 Lot 119. 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.

Approximate Amount of Judgment is $359,616.01 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 3326/2015. 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.”

Malachy Lyons Jr., Esq., Referee QNSJN206 141214

In pursuance of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Nassau County on April 12, 2023, I, Peter L. Kramer, Esq., the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on September 11, 2023 at Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Ct. Dr. North Side Steps, County of Nassau, State of New York, 11501 at 2:00 PM the premises described as follows: 129 Liberty Avenue Valley Stream, NY 11580 SBL No.: 37-536-27

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 and State of New York. feet to the point or place of beginning.

The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 605735/2019 in the amount of $880,463.64 plus interest and costs.

The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System’s COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale.

Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604 Tel.: 855-227-5072 141206

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU

Wilmington Saving Fund Society Fund, FSB, as Trustee of Stanwich Mortgage Loan Trust J, Plaintiff AGAINST Anthony Isaac; Tiffany Ricci; et al., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered December 1, 2022 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 18, 2023 at 4:00PM, premises known as 224 East New York Avenue, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 37 Block 292 Lot 12. Approximate amount of judgment $403,918.83 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 610718/2019. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed

Property established by the Tenth Judicial District. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Peter Kramer, Esq., Referee (516) 510-4020

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 14, 2023 141285

LEGAL NOTICE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF VALLEY STREAM OFFICE OF THE VILLAGE CLERK/ADMINISTRATOR 123 South Central Avenue Valley Stream New York 11580 (516) 592-5105

LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the fiscal affairs of the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream for the period beginning on June 1, 2021 through May 31, 2022 have been examined by an independent public accountant, and that the report of the external audit by the independent public accountant has been filed in my office at the Village Hall, 123 South Central Avenue, Valley Stream, New York where it is available as a public record for inspection by all interested persons.

Pursuant to § thirty-five of the General Municipal Law, the Board of Trustees of the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream may in its discretion, prepare a written response to the report of external audit and file any such response in my office as a public record for inspection by all interested persons not later than November 27, 2023.

Dated: Valley Stream, New York

August 24, 2023

JAMES J. HUNTER Village Clerk/Administrator

141484

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF NASSAU

Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee, for Carrington Home Equity Loan Trust, Series 2005-NC4 Asset

Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Plaintiff

AGAINST

Nicolas Carpio a/k/a Nicholas Carpio; et al., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered December 17, 2013 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 26, 2023 at 2:00PM, premises known as 2 Fulton Place, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Valley Stream, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 37 Block N Lots 676 & 677. Approximate amount of judgment $435,801.19 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 003983/2010. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the Tenth Judicial District. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”

Judith Powell, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP

f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC

Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff

175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792

Dated: August 3, 2023

141482

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU

SUNWEST MORTGAGE COMPANY, INC., Plaintiff, Against JEFFREY DELUCA PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR OF NASSAU COUNTY AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF MARIE C. CLARK, DECEASED, WILLIAM CLARK A/K/A WILLIAM P. CLARK AS HEIR AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MARIE C. CLARK, MATTHEW DOMIANO AS HEIR AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MARIE C. CLARK, MICHAEL DOMIANO AS HEIR AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MARIE C. CLARK, ET AL., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 06/05/2023, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Front Steps of the Nassau County Courthouse, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501. This Auction will be held rain or shine on 9/25/2023 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 13 Wellsboro Road, Valley Stream, New York 11580, 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 Valley Stream, In The Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 37 Block 583 Lot

6

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $728,982.89 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 012113/2014

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. Harold F. Damm, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 MIDLAND AVENUE, SUITE 205, PORT CHESTER, NY 10573

Dated: 6/29/2023 File

Number: 16-302313

RS 141478

The Seaford Union Free School District has the following opening:

SCHOOL NURSE (Floater)

FULL-TIME

Effective Date: August 30, 2023

*Starting Salary $60,948

RN NYS License required, BLS certified

• Experience with school aged children, including students with disabilities preferred.

• Knowledgeable of CDC, OHSA, NYSDOH guidelines as they pertain to disease and or illness including COVID.

• Maintains records and performs screenings as per N.Y.S guidelines.

• Provides basic healthcare and first aid to students that are ill, medically fragile and/or injured.

• Provides treatment, documents injuries and maintains ongoing student medical records.

• Administers daily medications.

• Knowledgeable of diabetic care and seizure protocol in a school setting.

• Must have superior nursing skills to include experience in emergency procedures, anaphylaxis, injuries and general triage.

• Must be highly skilled communicator, with strong interpersonal and organizational skills.

• Must be collaborative in nature and contribute to the health and well being of the school community.

On-Line Applications Only www.olasjobs.org/nassau

PROFESSIONAL REGISTERED NURSE

Part-Time (Ten-Month) Position Monday – Friday (3.5 hours/day)

Must have registered nurse’s license, cPr and aed certification. copies of all college transcripts (including transfer credits) and certification(s) must be provided with application.

Official transcripts are required for appointment.

SALARY: $26,631

ANTICIPATED STARTING DATE: On or about August 31, 2023

Candidates are to submit a letter of interest with

DRIVERS WANTED

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Clean

Will Train. Retirees Welcome! Bell Auto School 516-365-5778 Email: info@bellautoschool.com

DRIVING INSTRUCTORS WANTED Will Certify And Train HS Diploma NYS License Clean 3 Years Call 516-731-3000

EDITOR/REPORTER

The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position

our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to mhinman@liherald.com

Help Wanted

MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT

Inside Sales

Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. We offer salary, commission, bonuses, health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Will consider part time. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com

Call 516-569-4000 X286

OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships.

Salary, Commission, Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off.

Will Consider Part Time.

Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250

PART TIME ASSISTANTS

Garden City Childcare Center

Monday through Friday

$15 per hour

HS Diploma Required

Call 516-572-7614

PERSONAL TRAINER : Fitness Studio East Rockaway. Competitive Compensation. Experience Required. Email resume amplifiedems@gmail.com Call (516)253-5450

PRESS-ROOM/WAREHOUSE HELP Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME Pressroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for a motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Email resumes or

HomesHERALD

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5 • To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

Beautiful Residence

Welcome to this updated and spacious 4 bedroom, 3 full bathroom expanded Ranch located in Hewlett's highly desirable school district 14 area. This beautiful house offers everything you could want and more! All new windows throughout provides plenty of natural light while the kitchen features granite counter tops. The huge, finished basement with high ceilings provides plenty of storage space, plus closets for all your needs. Enjoy some outdoor time on the landscaped grounds or take a stroll around Grant Park nearby. Plus, you're just moments away from shops, restaurants and public transportation! With proper permits this home can even be used as a mother-daughter residence; it's an opportunity not to be missed! Call today to schedule a tour!

Did we have the right kind of engineer?

Q. We were looking at our permit plans and noticed that they were stamped by an engineer we never met. I looked him up, and found out he’s a chemical engineer, but he sealed our plans for the structure. It made me wonder, can a chemical engineer do that, seal plans for structural? I know there are many different types of engineers from reading your column, like electrical engineer, mechanical, plumbing, etc. Can a chemical engineer be responsible for beams in our house? It just seems like the contractor, who took care of everything, just got a guy to stamp the plans. What can you tell us?

A. That’s a great question, but you may find the answer confusing, as I did when I posed it to the Engineering Division of the New York State Office of the Professions. This is the board that qualifies professionals through exams, issues licenses and reviews complaints for prosecution. The person I spoke to was articulate and clearly had been asked this question before.

Results

1222151

Open Houses

REAL ESTATE

Open Houses

HEWLETT BA, 1390 Broadway #102, NEW! Move Right Into This Magnificent

Newly Renovated 2 BR, 2 Bth Coop in Prestigious Hewlett Townhouse.Open Layout. NEW State of the Art Kitchen & Bths,HW Flrs, Windows, HVAC,Recessed LED Lights, Doors, W/D. Community Pool. Full Service 24 Hr Doorman, Valet Pkg, Elevator, Priv Storage. Gar Pkg. Near Shops, Trans & Houses of Worship...$579,000

Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman

516-238-4299

HEWLETT BA,1534 BROADWAY #205, BIG REDUCTION!! MOTIVATED SELLER!!Extra Large 2000 Sq Ft, 2 Bedroom(Originally 3 BR), 2 Bath Condo in Prestigious Jonathan Hall with Doorman & Elevator. Updtd Wood/Quartz Kit, LR & DR. Washer/Dryer in Unit. Underground Pkg. Loads of Closets. Terrace Faces

Back. Easy Ranch Style Living...$579,000

Ronnie Gerber, Douglas Elliman

516-238-4299

HEWLETT BAY PARK 8/27, 11:30-1.190

Meadowview Ave Ever Dream of Living in A Castle? This 8000 Sq Ft Mansion is Full of Character. Amazing Architectural Details, Soaring Ceilings, Stained Glass Windows. 5 BR, 6.55 Bths. Sprawling 1.3 Acre Prop with IG Gunite Pool. SD#14.Near All.

Must See This Unique Home!..REDUCED

$2,700,000 Ronnie Gerber, Douglas elliman 516-238-4299

WOODMERE 8/27, 1:30-3, 504 Saddle Ridge Rd.,Move Right Into This Renovated 4 BR, 2 Bth Split with Open Layout in Prime Location! Granite/Wood EIK Opens to

Apartments For Rent

CEDARHURST NO FEE Private Entrance, Modern 1BR, 2BR, 3BR, CAC, W/D, Storage, Wall To Wall Carpeting, Indoor Parking Space. Starting At $1450 For One Bedroom When Available. (516)860-6889/

V. I. Properties, INC. 516-791-1313

1208 Broadway Hewlett, NY 11557 516-791-1313 vipropertiesny.com

Ronnie Gerber 516-238-4299

OPEN HOUSES SUNday, 8/27/23

HEWLETT Bay Pa RK

190 Meadowview Ave, 11:30-1, Ever Dream of Living in A Castle?

This 8000 Sq Ft Mansion is Full of Character. Amazing Architectural Details, Soaring Ceilings, Stained Glass Windows. 5 BR, 6.55 Bths. Sprawling 1.3 Acre Prop with IG Gunite Pool. SD#14. Near All. Must See This Unique Home! REDUCED $2,700,000

HEWLETT

1390 Broadway #102, BA, NEW! Move Right Into This Magnificent Newly Renovated 2 BR, 2 Bth Coop in Prestigious Hewlett Townhouse.Open Layout. NEW State of the Art Kitchen & Bths, HW Flrs, Windows, HVAC, Recessed LED Lights, Doors, W/D. Community Pool. Full Service 24 Hr Doorman, Valet Pkg, Elevator, Priv Storage. Gar Pkg. Near Shops, Trans & Houses of Worship $579,000

1534 Broadway #205, BA, Extra Large 2000 Sq Ft, 2 Bedroom (Originally 3 BR), 2 Bath Condo in Prestigious Jonathan Hall with Doorman & Elevator. Updtd Wood/Quartz Kit, LR & DR. Washer/Dryer in Unit. Underground Pkg. Loads of Closets. Terrace Faces Back. Easy Ranch Style Living BIG REDUCTION!! MOTIVATED SELLER! $579,000

WOOdMERE

504 Saddle Ridge Rd, 1:30-3, Move Right Into This Renovated

4 BR, 2 Bth Split with Open Layout in Prime Location! Granite/ Wood EIK Opens to Dining Room & Living Room. Lower Level Den. HW Flrs, Gas Heat, CAC. Oversized Property! SD#14. Near All! REDUCED! $999,000

CE da RHURST

332B Peninsula Blvd, BA, Move Right Into This Updated 3 Br, 2.5 Bth Coop Townhouse. LR, DR, Gran/Wood Kit w/ Stainless Steel Appl. Trex Deck Off LR. Primary Ste Features Updtd Bth & WIC. Att Gar Plus 1 Pkg Spot incl in Maintenance. W/D. Pull Down Attic, SD#15. Convenient to Shops, Trans & Houses of Worship $449,000

Rent Your Apartment

through the Herald and PrimeTime Classified section. Call us for our great *specials. 516-5694000, press 5 for Classified Dept. *(private party only)

She stated that the state Office for Engineering Licensing does not license by “discipline.” This means they do not specifically differentiate among mechanical, electrical or plumbing engineers, and they “assume” the person providing the service will use good professional judgment. They also told me that a complaint can be filed if the person has acted in a way that shows they were not qualified or competent to perform the service. This means you would have a structural failure, revealing that the person acted outside the scope of their competency, education and training.

In every instance, the answers I got were sprinkled with assumptions that a person would not knowingly practice in a field they were not qualified for. Clearly, or actually unclearly, the answer to your question would seem simple, but nothing I researched, and nobody I spoke to, had a clear answer, leaving it up to the licensed professional to “do the right thing.”

I remember designing a large renovation for a family in which the father was an aeronautical engineer who had designed the wing attachments on aircraft. He asked to sit with me while I designed the main beams of his home. I took him, step by step, through the process, and he was very confident at the end that his home was structurally sound. Even though he had the capability to follow the process as an engineer, he didn’t do this kind of work, and admitted that it was different from what he did.

It makes me wonder if the chemical engineer even knows his seal was being used for this structural design, or whether it was properly calculated. I often find that structure is over-compensated and more expensive than necessary in these instances. There are even cases of plans bearing the seal of people long deceased, so at least the chemical engineer is still alive to answer your question. Good luck!

2023 Monte Leeper

Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

Ask The Architect

Monte Leeper

©

Homes

To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5 • To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5

IT IS STILL A SELLERS

LAND FOR SALE

Garages For Rent

OCEANSIDE 2 CAR Garage.Great Location.Good for Classic Cars or Storage. Call For Further Informations. Must See! 516-476-8787

Florida Real Estate

DELRAY BEACH, FL: For Sale, opportunity before it hits the market! Single Story Ranch Condo. Beautifully appointed in desirable Emerald Pointe gated community, Approx 1800 Sq Ft. Furnished, All Appliances, 2 Bed / 2 Bath, Eat-In Kitchen, Walk-In Closets, Great Interior Storage and Exterior Storage Room, Screened-In Porch with Dual Interior Access, New Rheem HVAC Jan 2019, Ceiling fans throughout, 4 Private Parking Spots, Clubhouse with Auditorium, Pool, Gym, Tennis, Pickleball (TBD), Game and Card Rms, Interior Walking-Paths, Pet Friendly, 55+ Community, Easy access to Palm Beach International and Ft Lauderdale Airports. Exciting Downtown Delray offers beautiful Beaches, Shopping, Restaurants, and Nightlife. Asking $309,999. Call David at 248-240-8154 SWCGRPMI@gmail.com

Residential in Manorville, NY $365,000 3 acres on LIE route 495 East exit 69 Freeman lane. Eastport schools and farms. Leave message after viewing property with name phone number and address 631-581-9443

Herald

Home Sales

A sampling of recent sales in the area

Baldwin $820,000

Ocean Street. Contemporary. 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathroms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Open layout. Formal dining room. Den/family room. 2 fireplaces. Upper and lower deck.

Taxes: $12,373

East Meadow $690,000

Park Lane. Ranch. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen. Formal dining room. Many updates including skylight and central air conditioning. Convenient location in the heart of Barnum Woods. Security system.

Taxes: $10,677.53

Elmont $580,000

Grand Street. Cape. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. New eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Formal dining room. Den/ family room. First floor bedroom. Large private backyard. Many updates. Convenient location near transportation, parkways, schools, shopping, and more.

Taxes: $16,000

Hewlett $620,000

Keystone Place. 2 Story. 4 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms. Eatin kitchen. Formal dining room. Den/family room and home office. First floor bedroom.

Taxes: $15,869.45

Lido Beach $1,420,000

Blackheath Road. Custom Waterfront Colonial. 5 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms. Gourmet eat-in kitchen with 2 dishwashers and sinks, with butler’s pantry. Formal dining room. Den/ family room. Finishes include skylights and fireplaces. All large rooms. Master bedroom with porch. Resort-style backyard with inground swimming pool and patio with kitchen area, and much more.

Taxes: $14,429.72

Merrick $913,000

Hewlett Avenue. 2 Story. 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and pantry. Formal dining room. Den/family room and guest quarters. Updates include cathedral ceiling. First floor bedroom.

Taxes: $24,463.08

Oceanside $585,000

Derby Drive. Ranch. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Formal dining room. Den/family room and home office. Updates include skylight and security system.

Taxes: $13,617.41

Rockville Centre $905,000

Fonda Road. Colonial. 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms. Finished basement. Eat-in kitchen. Formal dining room. First floor bedroom. Security system.

Taxes: $14,006.84

Valley Stream $680,000

Hungry Harbor Road. Expanded Ranch. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms. Eat-in kitchen with granite countertops. Formal dining room. Den/family room.

Taxes: $11,139

Source: The Multiple Listing Service of Long Island Inc,, a computerized network of real estate offices serving Nassau, Suffolk, Queens, and Brooklyn.

MERCHANDISE MART

Antiques/Collectibles

We Buy Antiques, Fine Art, Coins & Jewelry Same Day Service, Free In-Home Evaluations, 45 Year Family Business. Licensed and Bonded, Immediate Cash Paid. SYL-LEE ANTIQUES www.syl-leeantiques.com 516-671-6464

FINDS UNDER $100

Finds Under $100 20LB YORK DUMBELL set and 12lb Reebok dumbell set. $40 for both sets. 516-707-0357

32 X 32 Mirror beveled edge etchings in corners, hardware included for hanging.$70.00 (516)579-9089 excellent

Finds Under $100

GOLDTONE LIGHTER BY Colibri, Brand new with butane refill, vintage $20,00 take all (516)579-9089

HEAVY DUTY FLOOR or Wall Safe Combination Safe. $100. 516-486-7941

ORIGINAL VIDEOS: LADIES of our Century- Bette Davis, Marilyn Monroe, Greta Garbo, $25 set 516-320-1906

OUTDOOR CHRISTMAS DECORA-

TIONS: Lights, Lawn Ornaments, Tree Ornaments, 10 Figure Nativity Set w/Stable.

Free! 516-889-3439

RECLINER: CUSTOM MADE Designer Quality, New condition, Originally $685. Now Only $100 FIRM! 516-486-7941

TOP FLIGHT GOLF clubs for sale. Irons

3-9 plus pitching iron. $99.00

516-333-9878

TRANSFER CHAIR: MEDLINE, Good Condition includes Foot Rests. S. Freeport

$40. 516 279 7696

Finds Under $100

VINTAGE VOLTRON LION force 11" pull back motion action toy w/sword, shield. $75. mint 516-707-0357

WHITE MILK GLASS Hobnail, Double Crimped 12" Bowl Basket w/Handle $40 9 1/2" Bowl $25 516-279-7696

Finds $100-$350

DINING ROOM CHAIRS (6): Beige, Strong, Beautiful, Luxurious. 2 Slightly Soiled. $350 Negotiable. Call 516-889-0321

TRIO- TRAINER BRT7989: Hardly Used, Exercise Bicycle And Elliptical Trainer. Asking $175. Call/ Text 516-319-1651

SERVICES

HErald Crossword Puzzle

Brick/Block/Concrete/Masonry

*MICHAEL LO BAIDO CONSTRUCTION*

Cement Specialist, Brickwork, Interlock Bricks, Belgium Blocks, Stoops, Patios, Driveways, Sidewalks, Basement Entrances, Pavers, Waterproofing. Quality Work, Lic./ Ins. Owner Always Onsite Free Estimates 516-354-5578

Doors & Windows

DOOR INSTALLATION & REPAIRS Free Estimates! We Manufacturer, Supply, and Install All Types of Doors. Entrance Doors, Garage Doors, Patio Doors, Kantm Storm Doors. Custom Sizes Available. MR. DOORS 516-781-7596

Electricians

E-Z ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC. All Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas. Services/Repairs.

Handyman

HANDYMAN

516-238-2112

E-mail-Frankcav@optonline.net

Home Improvement

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 866-393-3636

HANDY DANDY HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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LITO CONSTRUCTION

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SECURE YOUR HOME with Vivint Smart Home technology. Call 866-601-1219 to learn how you can get a professionally installed security system with $0 activation.

Miscellaneous

BEST SATELLITE TV with 2 Year Price Guarantee! $59.99/mo with 190 channels and 3 months free premium movie channels! Free next day installation! Call 888-508-5313

Power Washing

POWERWASHING ALL SURFACES: Houses, Fences, Concrete/ Brick, Decks/Sealing. . ANTHONY & J HOME IMPROVEMENT, INC. 516-678-6641

Sprinkler Syst./Irrig.Wells

Health & Fitness

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866-989-1812

VIAGRA AND CIALIS USERS! 50 Pills SPECIAL $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW! 855-413-9574

AUTOMOBILE & MARINE

Autos For Sale

Tree Services

T&M GREENCARE TREE SERVICE

*Tree Removal *Stump Grinding *Pruning *Roof Line Clearing. Residential and Commercial. "We Beat All Competitors' Rates." Lowest Rates. *Senior Discount. Free Estimates. *516-223-4525, 631-586-3800 www.tmgreencare.com

Satellite/TV Equipment

DIRECTV. NEW 2-YEAR Price Guarantee. The most live MLB games this season, 200+ channels and over 45,000 on-demand titles. $84.99/mo for 24 months with CHOICE Package. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918

DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 1/31/24. 1-866-595-6967

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Health & Fitness

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 888-514-3044

HEARING AIDS!! HIGH-QUALITY rechargeable, powerful Audien hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Tiny and NEARLY INVISIBLE! 45-day money back guarantee! 855-598-5898

LEXUS, LS430, 2002: 107,533 Miles, Excellent Condition, Automatic, Green Grey, Leather Seats, Well Maintained, Dealer Serviced, Garage Kept, New Michelin Tires, $8,500. Motivated 516-760-0468 MAZDA MIATA 2015 Club Edition, Silver Black Interior, 17,000 Miles, Perfect Condition. If Looking for a Miata, This is a good One To

Thank God for the writers’ strike

on May 2, the Writers Guild of America ceased its activities and went on strike. After years of stagnating compensation and job insecurity due to AI, the hand of Hollywood writers was forced as upper management refused to ratify a new bargaining agreement in time. On July 14, the WGA was joined by SAG-AFTRA, the actors’ union. The members of both unions voted over 97 percent in favor of a strike; frustration with production companies had reached a tipping point.

The dismissal of workers’ concerns and open cruelty by Hollywood bosses has been shocking, but not surprising. One executive quoted in Deadline Hollywood said, “The endgame is to allow things to drag on until union members start losing their apartments and losing their houses,” a tactic described as a “cruel but necessary evil.”

The audacity. The CEOs, who do not do the acting, the writing or the editing, yet somehow take home most of the money,

would sooner make people homeless than provide better working conditions. They admit their actions are cruel and evil, but they are not at all disturbed. The only thing that disturbs them is a drop in profits.

Let’s not forget that better working conditions are indeed what these workers are striking for, because the anti-union mainstream media is out to paint them as nothing more than a mischievous cadre of banditti. Fox News quoted a Paramount CEO as saying that the strikes would cause the “absolute collapse” of Hollywood. On the other side of the spectrum, the putatively liberal The Week magazine described striking workers as “No shows” on the cover of its July 28 issue, lambasting striking film workers for not doing the work they should be doing.

That’s the first reason I’m so grateful for this strike: It has exposed the entitlement that so many in society, especially those with means, feel when it comes to entire sectors of labor. It is taken for granted that certain workers cater to our needs. Firefighters must put out fires, delivery drivers must bring us food, and actors

must entertain us — and when they refuse to, anger and disrespect for these workers is justifiable.

The reality is, their labor was never ours to take for granted. It will always be the case that “essential workers” are offering their labor in exchange for just compensation and fair treatment, and that at any moment that labor could be withdrawn. There is no “required labor,” and the strike has brought this into focus.

The second reason that I’m grateful for the strike is that it offers all of us a refreshing break. Media consumption has been on the rise in recent years, and my question is, are we watching these media for entertainment, for enlightenment, for enjoyment? Or are we trying to numb the pain? The perpetual rewatching of old clips already seen; watching our fifth identical dating show. Are we truly immersing ourselves in entertainment, or are we immersing ourselves in audio-visual stimuli to cut off the volume of our brains?

I think too many of us, myself included, have fallen into the second category. This cultural tsunami is the 21st-century equiv-

alent of cocaine and alcohol, to distract us from the difficult questions confronting us.

Your boss yelled at you again today. You don’t think it’s fair, but it’s easier to click on the remote. You don’t like the news, so you indulge in fantasies. All around you, it seems, the world is swirling. Deep down, you feel it may be best to confront it, but snuggling up in your sheets sounds good, too.

It’s comforting to retreat. It’s also mollifying, and when you’re mollified you cannot shape your world. When many people are mollified, you cannot band together and face the tasks that require the efforts of many people. The good striking workers have said, “Enough of that!” and plunged us into cold water. We are afforded a short respite to unplug and consider the world around us.

Keep at it, Hollywood workers. I’m with you, and so are others. You are fighting for a good cause, and in fighting for yourselves you fight for us. You have given us all much to think about. Our TVs may be dark for some time, but it is the darkest skies that have the brightest stars.

Matthew Adarichev is a public policy major at Hofstra University, a political activist and an aspiring journalist whose work has appeared in the Hofstra Chronicle and the Anton Media Group.

A gold-plated hydrant for a pet’s Valentine’s Day?

As Valentine’s Day approaches, I’m obsessing about how to impress, and basically ingratiate myself to, my domestic partner. Admit it: A certain anxiety fuels the hysteria over finding the perfect roses or just the right jewelry to meet expectations.

Feb. 14 triggers a commercial and emotional frenzy, with us trying to please someone when we have no idea what that someone wants. Worse, we feel obligated to buy a gift because we’ve been brainwashed by advertising, soppy postings on social media and reruns of “Pretty Woman,” “Sleepless in Seattle” and “Out of Africa.”

Note to husband: The striped umbrella was not an inspired gift two years ago. Neither were the polka dot pajamas last year. Think 18 karats. Or, if funds are short, I’m a sucker for the written word. Pen me a pretty Valentine.

As for my gift giving, I’ve been living with my husband for decades, and I’m not a bit concerned about being able to make him happy on Valentine’s Day. A glass of his favorite Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, a homemade crab cake and he’s mine.

My deep, deep concern is my other

housemate, Lilly Bee, our one-year-old Malagasy Coton de Tulear. As dogs take over the country, from airlines to restaurants to department stores, we need to hone our gift-giving skills to meet canine desires and fantasies. Very soon, our fourlegged friends will rule the world. (This is a fake fact, but that’s OK, right?)

According to recent statistics, there are 323 million people in the U.S. There are also 90 million dogs kept as pets in American households. (These are real facts. Doesn’t it get confusing?)

That doesn’t count the street dogs, wild dogs and shelter dogs that are conspiring to get a leg up on humanity.

You think I’m kidding? Barking up the wrong tree?

The 90 million dogs we know about are increasing in numbers exponential. Visit any dog park and see for yourself what happens when male and female dogs get together. They aren’t exactly discriminating in their romantic encounters.

I don’t know exactly when (because I’m making this up), but pretty soon there will be more dogs than people in the U.S., and we humans better be ready to please them. We already see signs of a dog-centric culture. When did the dog stroller become ubiquitous? Why do we see water bowls for dogs outside restaurants when homeless people have to scrounge to get a drink?

And airlines? The rules state that “emotional support” dogs take priority over humans with allergies or aversions to the smells and potty problems that sometimes come with canine passengers. Dogs are born with all the clothes they need on their backs, yet the dog clothing industry is a multi-billiondollar business.

Guess what other dogcentered biz is booming? Products for overweight and obese pets. And they aren’t fat because they patronize food courts. They’re fat because their owners feed them the same way they feed themselves: too much.

According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, an astounding 94 percent of owners of fat dogs think their pets are a normal weight. When advised that their pups are putting on pounds, humans buy lower-fat dog food and other slim-down products. Thus a new industry is born.

And this is just the beginning. Come the day that dogs outnumber people, they’re sure to organize. Since poodles are reputed to be the brainiacs, they will no doubt seek the vote. A poodle president? I understand that poodles can identify a number of individual toys by shape and color. I’m not making comparisons, but that could be awesome in a president.

A dog majority would change food-buy-

Randi is on a brief leave. This column was originally published Feb. 18-24, 2018.

ing habits, demanding raw-meat menus and a reduction in the current consumption of smoothies and veggies. Veterinary schools would proliferate. We might see grooming taken to a new level. Aging dogs would demand hair color, and even a bit of “work” when their jowls droop.

Canine candidates would promise hydrants in every public park and a chicken in every doghouse. Puppy classes would become passé, and higher education would be available to all dogs, regardless of breed, shape of ears or length of tail. I imagine my Lilly Bee might follow the tried-and-true advice to study what she loves: Stuffies.

In a dog-dominant America, there would be a lottery for any mutt with a dollar and a dream.

Once the dog population tops the human population, the balance of power will tip in favor of Fido. We’ve all seen those paintings of Rover and Lassie and their friends sitting around a poker table. Fanciful, you say? I say, stay tuned.

In the meantime, I’m hedging my bets this Valentine’s Day. A box of genuine goat bones is on its way to Lilly Bee.

Copyright 2023 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.

RAnDi KREiss

pretty soon there’ll be more dogs than people, and we better be ready to please them.

Must actors entertain us? Their labor was never ours to take for granted.

MATTHEW ADARiCHEV

American Sign Language opens many doors

For many of us growing up, high schools offered so many different languages we could learn beyond English. Everything from Spanish and French to German and Hebrew. Even Latin.

But a growing number of public schools — including many here in Nassau County — are offering something many wish they had years ago: American Sign Language. And even if you’re too old for public school, it’s never too late to learn a language that, for more than a half-million Americans, is the primary — and sometimes the only — way to communicate.

Many of us mistakenly believe ASL is a language only for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. But effective communication requires both sides — the transmitter and the receiver — to clearly understand what’s being shared. ASL, like any language, is only good if the people being communicated to understand what is being shared.

And that’s the problem so many who depend on ASL face time after time. They speak through a complex series of gestures, but so few people understand. It makes everything from social experiences to school, and especially trying to function in a work environment, more difficult, if not impossible.

Making ASL fluency more widespread

Letters

Prosecuting Trump is exactly what America is about

To the Editor:

is the difference between someone who depends on ASL just fitting in, or thriving. That’s the argument Ariana Molina made in an opinion piece published last year for Cal State-Fullerton’s student publication, the Daily Titan.

“ASL is not only a practically useful language, but can also remove stigmas surrounding the deaf and hard of hearing community,” Molina wrote. “ASL courses are necessary for people to better understand the struggles of the Deaf community.”

The New York State Education Department promotes ASL as one of its key languages when it comes to awarding schools its Seal of Biliteracy. Yet on Long Island, the vast majority of students choose Spanish as their second language, while only a relative handful chose ASL.

That’s not for lack of trying by schools. Finding ASL educators isn’t as easy as it is to find those who teach Spanish, French or even Italian. But schools are looking, and they are making an effort to promote American Sign Language to the broader population, no matter what their hearing status is.

Nassau County’s emergency services also have worked hard to broaden access to its services, not necessarily by adopting ASL, but by offering the ability to text 911 once the new custom interface in which it invested more than $100,000 goes live.

Re Peter King’s column, “Prosecuting Trump is not what America is about,” in last week’s issue: Respectfully, I disagree. The rule of law, not of men, is precisely what America was intended to be about.

Mr. King suggests that “political struggles and battles should be fought in the political arena, not in the criminal courtroom.” This is absolutely true. We must not forget that the Biden-Trump battle in 2020 was fought, and decided, in the political arena, according to the political rules established by law.

It was Mr. Trump’s efforts to void that political decision, to circumvent those laws, that now move us into the criminal arena. Should law and order now to be decided by popularity, by Tomato-meter? Remember how that worked out for Barabbas?

More relevant is Thomas Jefferson. In his “Notes on the State of Virginia,” he stated plainly: “An elective despotism is not what we fought for.” Mr. King would have us believe that the only limits on free speech are “incitement to violence or riot.” There are clearly others, including fraud and lying when used to further a crime, both relevant to the allegations. And reading Trump’s mind is not as mysterious as implied, because actions, as we all know, can be stentorian.

Our first president set the standard. When our former king, George III, heard that the rebel Washington

But opening the world even wider to our friends in the Deaf community is something each of us can do as well. Nassau BOCES offers two courses — a sixweek instructor-led course, or a self-paced course with no instructor — for just over $100. Nassau Community College offers its students a number of courses, from four levels of ASL to communication and culture in the Deaf community.

Also offering a significant program for its students is Hofstra University — a 160hour experience that immerses them in the world of American Sign Language.

And for those who don’t mind the drive to Nesconset, the Cleary School for the Deaf offers American Sign Language classes for anyone 12 and older.

There are a number of other programs offerings ASL — many of them a simple online search away.

George Bernard Shaw once said, “The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.” We tell ourselves that everyone who can be communicated with is being communicated with, but the reality is that so many people are being left out.

Making ASL a part of all of our lives — whether we are part of the Deaf community or not — will ensure that more than a half-million of our friends, family members, fellow students and coworkers are never left out.

was to retire, surrendering his presidency, he said, “If he does that, he’ll be the greatest man in the world.” That is the spirit of our Constitution, and what is expected of our presidents. It was so until No. 45.

And Mr. Trump remains free to run, free even to run if convicted, as Eugene Debs did. Yet Mr. King’s conclusion is

clear and correct: “The Constitution and its protections apply to all Americans,” he writes. Indeed so, it was written explicitly to protect all Americans from characters like Nixon and Trump.

Village government help is just a call, or text, away

I’m sure you’ve heard the quote from President Ronald Reagan: “The most terrifying words in the English language are, ‘I’m from the government and I’m here to help.’” Nearly four decades later, residents and taxpayers are still terrorized by those words.

My take is that Reagan was concerned that government is extraordinarily inefficient, sometimes to such a degree that its best attempts to help end up doing more harm than good.

eDwIn Fare

The view that Reagan was expressing tended to be a precursor to calls for smaller government, where an individual or private organization could do something more effectively than the government.

Here in Valley Stream, I like to believe that our government, the government closest to the people, has perfected providing the best possible services at the best possible cost. I’ve said many times that the village isn’t responsible for state and federal issues. We can help residents navigate bureaucratic complexities when dealing with other levels of government, but our role is to maintain local services.

Your village taxes are the smallest part

NICE Bus is still a great deal

To the Editor:

Even with the 15-cent NICE Bus fare increase from $2.75 to $2.90, it will still be one of the best public transportation bargains around. Since the last fare increase eight years ago, inflation has increased 28 percent. Most bus transit agencies raise their fares far more frequently.

Since the 1950s, the average cost of riding a bus in Nassau County has gone up at a lower rate than either the consumer price index or inflation. The MTA Metro Card, introduced in 1996, allows a free transfer between NICE buses and New York City Transit buses and subways, and thousands of NICE riders take advantage of it. Purchasing a weekly or monthly pass further reduces the cost per ride. Many employers offer transit checks, which pay even more of the costs.

NICE tries to schedule bus replacements every 500,000 miles or 12 years, whichever comes first, in accordance with Federal Transit Administration guidelines. Since 1973, buses operated by NICE under

of your tax bill and provide your quality of life on day-to-day issues. Sanitation, lighting, street maintenance, parks and environmental preservation, library services — and fire protection from the village’s volunteer Fire Department, are just a sampling of what we do every day. We also provide outstanding recreational programming to suit every age and interest: youth camp, a state-of-the-art pool complex, concerts, movies, fitness programs, senior enrichment, and seasonal events. Residents can visit us in person at Village Hall, or access our services online. As long as they are provided properly and efficiently, our quality of life remains high.

We try to respond to complaints and suggestions as quickly as we can, because we know that even little problems can grow into big ones if not properly addressed. But we can’t be everywhere at once. We count on our residents to be the eyes and ears of their local government.

People often approach me with complaints. It almost always starts with, “You’re not going to like what I have to say…” I usually reply that it’s OK to complain if you feel there’s something amiss. That’s why your elected officials are here. No one likes problems, but if it’s within our ability to correct the problem, rest

contract to Nassau County are now on the fourth replacement cycle. Most are under 12 years old. This wasn’t the case decades ago, when the average age of the fleet was closer to 12 years.

In the end, it comes down to the availability of increased funding for additional transportation service for residents. Operating subsidies are required to increase the level of service and reduce the amount of time you spend waiting for a bus. The same goes for adding more off-peak, evening and weekend service.

Funding for NICE buses is a fourway dance among what riders pay in fares and a combination of capital and operating assistance from Nassau County, New York state and Washington. Everyone needs to have skin in the game. There ain’t no such thing as a free lunch — or in this case, a free bus ride.

assured that we will.

Recently, a resident angrily approached me and exclaimed, “I’ve lived here for 35 years, and I pay taxes.” I smiled and said, “I’ve lived here for 60 years, and I pay my taxes, too.” That broke the ice, and she smiled, too.

I said, “How can I help?” (I resisted Reagan’s variation.) Her very valid complaint was about a pothole near her home, which she claimed has been ignored by the village. When I asked who she had reported it to, she replied, “No one. You should know where the potholes are without me calling. It’s been there for months, and no one fixed it.”

The moral of the story is, don’t be so sure that we’re aware. I’d rather get multiple reports about a problem than have it go unchecked, get worse and potentially even damage property or hurt people in the area. Please don’t assume that every pothole or broken light is on our radar, or take it for granted that someone else has called about it. Call, email or, better yet, use our new TextMyGov smartphone service to report the issue.

This great new program can be used to easily report issues by texting the problem to (516) 518-3332. You can also “opt in” to receive village alerts, notifications or text messages by texting 91896 to the same

Framework

number.

TextMyGov is a fully automated service for our residents to easily find information and report problems. The village is utilizing this technology to provide exceptional communication, convenience, and attention to detail in the services we provide.

Short, concise prompts are best. Here are a few examples to get you started:

Text “Report” to alert us to an issue with potholes, streetlights, signage, parking meters, flooding or similar issues.

Text “Contact” for a directory of phone numbers and addresses.

Text “Recreation” for information about the programs we offer.

Text “Silver Threads” for information about our popular senior program.

Send us a text at (516) 518-3332 to see what it’s all about! (But please note: As the system is used, automated keywords and responses will be improved. If your first attempt doesn’t get you the information you’re looking for, try another keyword.)

We’re always happy to receive mailed correspondence, personal visits, emails, and now text messages to be of better service to residents. Whichever way of communicating works best for you is OK with us.

So, yes, I’m from the government and I’m here to help!

Edwin Fare has been mayor of Valley Stream since 2011.

by Emma Bellissimo

The view is only half of the thundering thrill — Niagara Falls

we count on our residents to be the eyes and ears of local government.

LARRY PENNER Great Neck

Larry Penner is a transportation advocate, historian and writer and a former director of the Federal Transit Administration Region 2 New York Office of Operations and Program Management.