Summer is moving fast and the market is still active! Whether you’re buying, selling, or just exploring your options, now may be an ideal time to start. Contact The Toler Team today!
representatives
By JANE BAGATTA Herald Intern
Local residents from throughout Long Island gathered on the grounds of Forest Road Elementary School last Saturday for the Elite Scholarship Foundation’s annual community fair featuring an afternoon of fun, community outreach, scholarships and support for the foundation.
The Elite Scholarship Foundation is a Valley Stream-based nonprofit organization specializing in helping students with their higher education journey, offering financial help, career guidance and mentorship. With the help of sponsors and partners, the foundation helps deserving students.
“I’m so appreciative and blessed for the support of all these awesome organizations that chose to partner with us and make a dif-
ference in the community and provide resources to the community,” Paula Mills, CEO and president of the foundation, said.
Many of the supporters, local community organizations and small businesses, took part the fair which was themed to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, particularly the contributions of Black and Indigenous people throughout the country’s history.
Young small business owner Samara St. Preux, 14, who makes and sells candles, wax melts, room sprays, lotions and diffusers, enjoys being a member of the Black business community on Long Island.
“I love it,” St. Preux said. “I like to see more Black businesses come into the space, more small businesses just in general. It’s just so strong and it feels like family.”
The participating organizations included
Natalie Toler Lic. Assoc. R. E. Broker ABR, SRS, SRES, SFR M 516.388.0912 natalie.toler@elliman.com
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
Valley Stream School District 13 has received a $25,000 grant from Bridgestone to create adaptive-sports opportunities for students with disabilities, making it one of just eight school districts and nonprofit partners nationwide selected in the tire company’s second round of adaptive-sports funding.
The grant is part of Bridgestone’s Adaptive Sports in Schools initiative, which provides $200,000 in total funding through the Bridgestone Americas Trust Fund. Each of the eight recipients received $25,000. The latest grants bring Bridgestone’s two-year investment in the initiative to $400,000.
Tlion students in U.S. public schools receive special-education services for disabilities, but participation in sports remains disproportionately low because of resource limitations, according to Bridgestone.
his recognition means we can keep closing equity gaps for our students rather than just naming them in a planning document.
G ARY GENTLES Assistant superintendent for business and operations, Valley Stream District 13
The program is intended to address the limited athletic opportunities for students with disabilities. More than 7 mil -
District 13 serves 388 students with disabilities, representing 20 percent of its K-6 enrollment, according to Gary Gentles, assistant superintendent for business and operations.
“Bridgestone was looking for districts ready to close a real gap, and we had one: No dedicated adaptive-athletics programming despite one in five of our students being a student with a disability,” Gentles said. “Being one of only eight recipients nationwide, and the only one in New York state, tells me our application made that case clearly. For the district, this recognition means we can keep
CoNtiNueD oN page 8
Mike Monahan/Herald Shawuna Bednar and Kimberly Robinson, left,
of the Nassau County Department of Health’s Division of Community Health, gave information to attendees.
Village Green to come alive with jazz music
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
The Simon’s Valley Stream Jazz Festival will return to the Village Green Aug. 8, bringing live music, food and cultural celebration as the event marks its 21st year.
The free festival, scheduled from 4 to 11 p.m., is presented by the Simon family in partnership with the Village of Valley Stream and Assemblywoman Michaelle C. Solages.
“Every summer, this festival gives people a chance to see their neighbors and enjoy some great music right here in Valley Stream,” Solages said. “I’m proud to once again be coordinating it with Simon’s Valley Stream Jazz Festival, Inc., and I hope families from across the community will come out and join us. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy jazz music from around the world.”
This year’s lineup will be headlined by Tabou Combo and also includes performances by SPACE, Yayoi Ikawa, Edy Brisseaux, CESIMI and dancers. Additional performers are also expected.
The festival was founded in 2003 by Valley Stream resident Dr. Herold Simon, an internist and nephrologist who has practiced medicine for more than four decades. Born in Haiti, Simon immigrated to the United States in 1974 and has lived in Valley Stream for more than 20 years.
“I was having small gatherings at my house for friends,” Simon said. “We started
by playing jazz music from vinyls and CDs, and very soon after that, I brought in musicians, guitarists, pianists, saxophonists, trumpeters, keyboardists. They played in the backyard. We started with about 10 people, and then 20, and then 30, and then 200, 300 and plus. And I said, ‘Wow, this is a little bit too much for my backyard.’”
Although Simon pursued holding the festival in a park for years, the event did not relocate to Village Green until three years ago. Since then, he said, attendance has
continued to increase, with about 500 people attending last year’s festival. Organizers are anticipating more than 1,000 attendees this year following expanded online promotion.
Simon’s lifelong appreciation for jazz has been the driving force behind the festival. He hopes to share that passion not only with Valley Stream residents but also with visitors from across Long Island and beyond, noting that friends travel from several states and Canada to attend each year.
A central focus of the festival has been highlighting artists and performers from a variety of cultural backgrounds.
“I call it a multi-ethnic and multicultural event,” Simon said. “Where I am trying to blend all communities of Valley Stream.”
Planning for each festival begins immediately after the previous one ends, Simon said, as organizers review what worked, identify areas for improvement and begin preparing for the following year. Weekly planning meetings begin in January and include coordinating performers, vendors, sound production and park logistics.
In addition to live music, attendees will be able to purchase a variety of food from vendors offering Haitian, Italian and Jamaican cuisine, along with desserts and refreshments.
One new addition planned for this year is a live YouTube broadcast of the festival, allowing people who cannot attend in person to watch the event remotely.
The festival has also grown through increased community and sponsor support. Simon credited his family for helping organize the event each year and said Solages and the village played an important role in making it possible to move the festival to the Village Green after years of planning.
Looking ahead, Simon hopes the festival will continue to grow into a destination event while maintaining its emphasis on bringing people together through music and creating a sense of community.
Photos courtesy Herold Simon
The Simon’s Valley Stream Jazz Festival will return to the Village Green on Aug. 8, marking the event’s 21st year.
A central focus of the festival has been highlighting artists and performers from a variety of cultural backgrounds.
Teen overcomes spinal injury to finish senior season
Softball pitcher Layla Rossianno undergoes surgery at LIJ Valley Stream hospital
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
For much of her senior year, Elmont Memorial High School pitcher Layla Rossianno took the softball field carrying more than the responsibility of leading the Spartans.
After slipping on ice during the winter, the 18-year-old hurler developed persistent back pain that gradually worsened into numbness in her foot and a severe ache caused by a herniated disc pressing on a nerve in her lower back.
Even as the injury made everyday activities increasingly difficult, Rossianno remained determined to finish the final softball season of her high school career before undergoing surgery at Long Island Jewish Valley Stream hospital.
The decision required balancing her health with her commitment to her team.
“I’ve been the only varsity softball pitcher since maybe 10th grade, so there was really no better option than to play through the pain because they never really trained anyone younger than me to pitch,” Rossianno said. “I kind of came to the decision on my own to play through it and wait to get surgery afterward.”
While she scaled back practices to conserve energy for games, she continued pitching despite pain that eventually reached a 10 on a 10-point scale, in addition to weakness in her leg.
She relied on treatment from the school’s athletic trainer before games, along with medication, stretching and heat to manage the symptoms. The emotional challenge of being unable to fully participate in practices was often just as difficult as the physical pain itself.
After initially seeking medical care, Rossianno and her mother, Lariza Singh, struggled to get answers despite multiple evaluations and imaging. An MRI eventually revealed a herniated lumbar disc, leading them to seek a second opinion from Dr. Brian Mercer, a spine surgeon with Northwell Health’s Orlin & Cohen Orthopedic Group.
According to Mercer, Rossianno arrived after already discussing treatment options, including injections and surgery, with previous providers. Imaging confirmed a moderate-sized herniated disc compressing a nerve, causing sciatica, weakness in her calf and ongoing pain that had persisted for months.
Although surgery was recommended, Rossianno wanted to delay the procedure until after the softball season concluded.
Mercer said postponing surgery for several weeks was not expected to worsen the disc itself, but delaying treatment too long can increase the risk that nerve-related weakness may persist.
“She’s a very tough young lady,” Mercer said. “She was actually able to do it. She was adamant that even if she did need surgery, she wanted to delay it until after the end of the softball season, so that she could help her team finish and support them.”
With Rossianno planning to leave for college later in the summer, her family ultimately determined that she should undergo surgery close to home so she could recover before moving out of state.
Mercer performed an endoscopic discectomy at LIJ Valley Stream using a minimally invasive approach designed to remove the portion of the disc compressing the nerve through a small incision with limited disruption to surrounding tissue.
Minimally invasive techniques have become an increasing focus across surgical specialties because they can help patients safely return to normal activities more quickly.
For Singh, watching her daughter continue playing through the injury was difficult. She encouraged Rossianno to stop competing out of concern that the condition could worsen but understood how important finishing her final season was to her after years of playing the sport. Softball also carried personal significance because Rossianno’s late father coached youth softball and introduced her to the game.
“When she was on the field, it was like you didn’t even know she was in pain or not,” Singh said. “She didn’t show it. It didn’t show on her face or in her holding her back. Nothing like that.”
Rossianno completed her senior season and was named the team’s Most Valuable Player, while maintaining a 4.0 grade point average.
Her severe back pain was relieved almost immediately after surgery, while the numbness in her foot resolved over the following two weeks.
“I wasn’t too sure about doing too much, like dancing, things like that, wearing heels,” Rossianno said. “But there was definitely a point within recovery that I knew that I was going to make it to prom and grad.”
She attended senior prom and graduation, and after an evaluation, her physical therapists determined formal rehabilitation was unnecessary beyond home stretching exercises.
This fall, Rossianno will study animal science, first attending Wake Technical Community College in North Carolina before planning to transfer to North Carolina State University, with the goal of becoming a veterinarian.
Looking back, she considers being able to play in her senior game one of the defining moments of her high school career. After months of uncertainty, pain and recovery, she was able to finish both her softball career and senior year on her own terms.
Photos courtesy Layla Rossianno
Layla Rossianno, a pitcher for Elmont Memorial High School, finished the softball season her senior year, despite pain and upcoming surgery at Long Island Jewish Valley Stream hospital.
Shortly after recovering from surgery, Layla Rossianno was able to attend the Elmont Memorial High School senior prom.
News brief Crime watCh
5th Precinct National Night Out planned for Aug. 4 to promote community unity
Community members are invited to celebrate the 5th Precinct’s National Night Out at a free event from 6 to 8 p.m. on Aug. 4, in the parking lot across from St. Boniface Church, 631 Elmont Rd., in Elmont.
Held annually on the first Tuesday in August, National Night Out has brought communities together for more than four decades to promote police-community partnerships and strengthen neighborhood connections. The nationwide initiative is designed to foster positive relationships between law enforcement and communities by bringing people together in a safe, wel-
coming environment.
The event is being organized in partnership with the Nassau County Police Department’s 5th Precinct, community leaders, Nassau County Legislators Carrié Solages and Cynthia Nuñez and other government officials.
The event is intended to bring together law enforcement, community organizations, families and visitors for an evening focused on strengthening community connections and promoting neighborhood safety.
— Angelina Zingariello
Making the World a Better Place
The late Jonathan Sacks, Chief Rabbi of the United Kingdom, wrote extensively on making the world a better place. In his book, “To Heal a Fractured World”, he writes, “I have spent much of my life thinking about life, observing people, reading books, searching for teachers and exemplars...I make no claim to wisdom, but this I have learned:”
“That what counts is not how much wealth we make but how much of what we have, we share.”
“That those who spend at least part of their lives in the service of others are the most fulfilled and happiest people I know.”
“That moral health is no less important to the quality of a life than physical health.”
“That the best do good without thought of reward, understanding that to help others is a privilege even more than it is an opportunity.”
“That self-interest is simply uninteresting.”
“That pain and loneliness are forms of energy that can be transformed if we turn them outward, using them to recognize and redeem someone else’s pain or loneliness.”
“That putting others down, we diminish ourselves; lifting others, we lift ourselves.”
“That nothing is gained by less-thanethical conduct. We may gain in the short term but we will lose in the long, and it is the long term that counts.”
“That the ability to give to others is itself a gift.”
“That the privilege of wealth lies not in what it allows us to do for ourselves, but what it enables us to do for others.”
“That the world is a book in which our life is a chapter, and the question is whether others, reading it, will be inspired.”
ETTINGER LAW FIRM
V.S. woman pleads guilty in drunken wrong-way crash that injured two teens
A Valley Stream woman has pleaded guilty in connection with a drunken wrong-way crash on Hempstead Avenue last summer that seriously injured a teenage driver and passenger after her vehicle crossed into oncoming traffic and struck their car.
The Nassau County District Attorney’s Office announced that Kelyse Land, 26, pleaded guilty July 20 before Judge Helene Gugerty to aggravated vehicular assault, two counts of assault and driving under the combined influence of alcohol and drugs.
According to prosecutors, the crash happened at 11:45 p.m. on July 25 of last year when Land was driving a 2003 Nissan on Hempstead Avenue and crossed over the double yellow lines into oncoming traffic.
Prosecutors said Land’s vehicle struck the front of a 2022 BMW that was stopped at a red light, causing the BMW to collide with another vehicle.
The teenage driver of the BMW suffered multiple fractures to the hand and wrist, along with lacerations that required more than three dozen stitches. Prosecutors said the injuries left the victim with permanent limited mobility in the wrist. The teenage passenger was treated for a concussion and a sprained ankle.
“She is lucky that her complete dis-
regard for public safety did not end up costing a life,” Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly said in a news release. “My prosecutors diligently worked every facet of the case to ensure that this defendant was held fully accountable for her crimes and the pain and suffering she caused.”
According to the district attorney’s office, a blood sample taken about three hours after the crash showed Land’s blood alcohol content was 0.17 percent, more than twice the legal limit. Prosecutors said a reverse extrapolation analysis estimated her blood alcohol content was between 0.185 percent and 0.26 percent at the time of the crash.
Investigators also recovered an empty 50-milliliter bottle of Johnnie Walker Black Label from Land’s pocket after the crash, prosecutors said.
Land is scheduled to return to court Sept. 28 and is expected to be sentenced to two to six years in prison. Prosecutors had recommended a sentence of four to nine years in prison. Land is represented by Aaron Wallenstein. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney James Taglienti of the Vehicular Crimes Bureau.
— Angelina Zingariello
Herald file photo
A Valley Stream woman has pleaded guilty in connection with a drunken wrong-way crash on Hempstead Avenue last summer.
Heard file photo
Trustee explains lone ‘no’ vote on PipeLogix
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
The Incorporated Village of Valley Stream Board of Trustees amended the official roll call for Resolution 111/26 to reflect that Trustee Kevin Waszak voted against a measure extending the village’s agreement with PipeLogix LMS Inc.
The amended roll call shows Trustees John L. Tufarelli, Sharon M. Daly and Deputy Mayor Dermond E. Thomas voted in favor of the resolution, while Waszak voted against it. The amendment directs the village clerk to revise the official minutes in the village’s Minute Book to reflect the vote. The action updates the official record to accurately reflect how each member of the board voted on Resolution 111/26 and the final outcome of the measure.
Dagenda for a formal vote,” Waszak said. “When significant disagreements arise, matters are often tabled for further discussion rather than advanced to a vote.”
According to Waszak, the PipeLogix agreement extension differed because he informed the board during its June 1 work session that he intended to vote against the proposal even after additional discussion. With a majority of the board supporting the measure, it was placed on the June 15 meeting agenda. The measure then proceeded to a vote at the board’s regular meeting.
issenting votes are relatively uncommon because most issues are discussed extensively during work sessions before being put on the agenda for a formal vote.
KE vIN WAsZAK Trustee
Residents later questioned why Waszak cast the lone dissenting vote. According to information provided by Waszak, the June 15 vote marked the first time he voted against a resolution during a regular meeting of the Board of Trustees. He also explained the circumstances that led to his decision to oppose the measure.
Village of Valley Stream Board of Trustees
“Dissenting votes are relatively uncommon because most issues are discussed extensively during work sessions before being put on the
Waszak opposed the resolution for two reasons. He said he was concerned about the program’s opt-in enrollment structure because residents could be enrolled without fully realizing they had signed up.
“I experienced this myself, and several residents shared similar concerns with me,” Waszak said. His decision was also influenced by the village’s recent tax increase. Waszak believed ending the program would allow residents to retain the monthly savings it provided, helping offset some of the additional costs associated with the higher tax rate.
The amendment approved by the board changes the recorded roll call for Resolution 111/26.
The resolution passed by a 3-1 vote.
Herald file photo
Village of Valley Stream Trustee Kevin Waszak voted against a measure extending the village’s agreement with PipeLogix LMS Inc.
Crossovers fuel Nassau County football
By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
Kickoff for the Nassau high school football season is just over a month away.
On Aug. 17, all 51 public high school football programs in the county will begin preparations for the upcoming season, scheduled to open Thursday, Sept. 3 with a Conference IV battle between Island Trees and Oyster Bay. The vast majority of openers will take place the following Thursday.
The biggest news of the offseason came in the spring when East Rockaway and West Hempstead announced it would be joining forces. Longtime Rocks head coach Russ Pajer adds Dom Carre, who served as the head coach at West Hempstead since 2010, as defensive coordinator. Carre played for Pajer at East Rockaway in 1997 and ‘98.
“Our JV teams combined last year and it was a great experience,” said Pajer, who enters his 32nd season as head coach. “West Hempstead’s numbers are down to less than 20, so it was a no-brainer. It was a seamless process with both superintendents on board. It’s a good thing and we expect to have a strong team.”
East Rockaway/West Hempstead is seeded fifth in Conference IV and opens at Valley Stream North. Three of its home games will be played under the lights at East Rockaway beginning Sept. 18 against defending county champion Seaford. West Hempstead will be the site of the Week 3 crossover against Elmont, and the game will serve as Homecoming. A Homecoming will also take place in East Rockaway Oct. 9. In 2025, the Rocks went 2-6 while the Rams finished 4-4 and qualified for the playoffs.
“We expect to have between 30 and 35 kids on varsity,” Pajer said.
Crossover games add intrigue
Seaford, along with three-time defending Long Island champion Massapequa (Conference I), ninetime defending county champion Garden City (II) and South Side (III) are the No. 1 seeds in their respective conferences.
Massapequa and Garden City will clash in a muchanticipated crossover game Sept. 26 on the Chiefs’ home field at 1:30 p.m. The Trojans enter the season riding an amazing 66-game winning streak. The showdown, along with all the other crossovers between Conferences I and II, and III and IV, will carry a lesser power-ranking weight than the other seven games, Carey head coach Mike Stanley said.
Some of the other Week 3 matchups feature Carey at Oceanside, Long Beach at Farmingdale, South Side at Seaford, Plainedge at Lynbrook, and Freeport at Roosevelt (Thurs., Sept. 24 at 5 p.m.)
Seven teams switch conferences
Plainedge and Carey lead a group of six teams switching conferences for this season based on enrollment and size breakdown of each conference. Plainedge finished first in the regular season in Conference IV a year ago, going undefeated in the process, and bumps down to III. Carey was in III last fall but jumps up to II, essentially changing places with Glen Cove. East Meadow is no stranger to the top conference and heads there after a brief stay in II. Floral Park, Valley Stream North and Valley Stream South moved to IV from III.
Few coaching changes
Legendary Plainedge head coach Rob Shaver retired
10 games to watch
Sept. 10 Long Beach at Carey
Sept. 10 Wantagh at Plainedge
Sept. 10 Lynbrook at Seaford
Sept. 19 Mepham at Calhoun
Sept. 26 Carey at Oceanside
Sept. 26 Garden City at Massapequa
Oct. 10 Oceanside at Massapequa
Oct. 17 Plainedge at South Side
Oct. 24 Massapequa at Farmingdale
Oct. 31 South Side at Wantagh
at the end of last season and the Red Devils are now led by former assistant Adam Hovorka. They’ll kick off at home versus defending Conference III champion Wantagh. And for the third time in four seasons, East Meadow has a new head coach with Matt Castaneda taking over. The Jets are seeded seventh in their return to Conference I and open at home against Hicksville. Former Elmont head coach Jay Hegi is the new head coach at Division.
Lucas DiDio and Oceanside take on Carey in what promises to be an exciting crossover game Sept. 26.
Michelle Ebel/Herald photos
Chaminade’s Luka Tomaszweski was on the move during 7 on 7 drills at Oceanside.
V.S. Historical Society receives two state grants
The Valley Stream Historical Society has received two grants through the 2026 New York State Conservation Grant Program.
The Society was awarded a $1,000 Site Assessment Grant and a $600 Preservation Supplies Grant. The two grants are among three types of funding offered through the 2026 NYSCA/GHHN Conservation Grant Program, which also includes Conservation Treatment Grants.
The program is administered by the Greater Hudson Heritage Network in partnership with the New York State Council on the Arts, with support from the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. Additional funding for Long Island projects, including Valley Stream, was provided by the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation.
The Society credited longtime trustee and historical society archivist Joseph Coen with the successful grant applications. Coen recently retired after more than 30 years as archivist for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn.
“The Site Assessment Grant will help preserve the Society’s two antique gas pumps, dating from 1918 and 1920, which stand in front of Raustein’s Gas Station,” Coen explained. “Raustein’s, which opened in 1920, was relocated from 139 North Corona Ave. to the Pagan-Fletcher Restoration in the 1980s. The Preservation Supplies Grant will enable the Society to purchase much-needed archival materials
to better protect and preserve Valley Stream’s historical collections — safeguarding our community’s legacy for future generations.”
The 2026 conservation grant program received applications from organizations in 46 New York counties, with 129 awards totaling $88,569 recommended for funding.
The Valley Stream Historical Society, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was
founded in 1973. In 2000, it was granted an Absolute Charter by the New York State Board of Regents in recognition of its commitment to historical preservation and education.
The Society operates the Pagan-Fletcher Restoration, the Village of Valley Stream’s landmarked historic homestead of the Pagan, Fletcher and Fairchild families. The Restoration is open to the public
for guided tours and historical research.
The Society also publishes the monthly Panorama newsletter, sponsors lectures, holds special events and maintains a presence through its website and social media, including Facebook and Instagram.
— Angelina Zingariello
Herald file photo
The Valley Stream Historical Society operates the Pagan-Fletcher Restoration, the Village of Valley Stream’s landmarked historic homestead of the Pagan, Fletcher and Fairchild families.
FREE SUMMER CONCERTS
Grant from Bridgestone will fund adaptive sports
THURSDAY, AUGUST 6
7:00PM
closing equity gaps for our students rather than just naming them in a planning document.”
The program will operate primarily during physical education classes, but there may be after-school programming as well. It will be available to students with disabilities across the district’s four elementary schools: Willow Road, Wheeler Avenue, James A. Dever and Howell Road.
The district demonstrated a communitywide need for adaptive sports, and presented a plan to use the funding to expand access for hundreds of young athletes. Wade Munday, Bridgestone’s director of philanthropy and social impact and a leader of the Adaptive Sports in Schools initiative, said the district’s approach aligned with the program’s goal of helping communities determine which adaptive sports best meet their students’ needs.
Valley Stream plans to build its program around adaptive soccer, adaptive baseball and T-ball, along with skills and mobility activities related to boccia, a Paralympic sport similar to bocce. The district selected sports that can be played in a gym or on a field, and fit its elementary phys. ed. setting.
“We believe this program will benefit all students by strengthening their connections with peers from diverse backgrounds and abilities throughout the district,” Munday said. “Participating in sports allows students to learn more about others and themselves, which we think will encourage a healthy and vibrant school environment.”
The $25,000 award will cover adaptive sports equipment, skills development, staff and paraprofessional training, equipment storage, consumables or supplies that are subject to quick wear and tear and a sustainability reserve. The district said that every dollar would be used to cover program costs, with no administrative or overhead charges.
Planned equipment includes audible and bell soccer balls, adjustable pop-up goals, beep baseballs and sound-buzzer bases, height-adjustable batting tees, boccia competition sets and assistive ramps. The district also plans to pur-
chase adaptive grip aids; universal cuffs which enables athletes to grip sports equipment securely; sensory, augmentative and alternative communication kits; wheelchair sport positioning supports and lockable storage carts for each school.
Phys. ed. teachers and paraprofessionals at all four schools will receive adaptive phys. ed. and unified sports training, while select staff members will pursue Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools coach certification. Training is essential, Munday said, to building a sustainable adaptive sports program, and the district will determine its curriculum and training based on the sports and equipment it adds. Bridgestone will also make curriculum, resources and training from previous grant recipients available to Valley Stream.
The district expects all of its students with disabilities to have access to the program in its first year.
“This is entirely new,” Gentles said. “We currently have no dedicated adaptive-sports programming, so families are getting a program built from scratch rather than an expansion. What won’t change is our commitment to meeting our students’ sensory and foundational needs. The equipment and P.E. initiatives are new; the underlying commitment isn’t.”
Bridgestone will evaluate the program based on implementation of the new sports and staff training, as well as the number of student-athletes who take part. The company said it is open to continued funding for successful programs as participation grows.
Valley Stream also plans to hold an Adaptive Sports Family Play Day as part of the grant program, giving families an opportunity to learn about and participate in the new initiative.
“We are proud to support young athletes on their journey,” Munday said. “Competing in and enjoying any sport shows what’s achievable, and helps forge bonds with a community that can bring you happiness and joy. We want every student-athlete to know they have a place on the court, field or wherever they play.”
Courtesy Valley Stream School District 13
The district currently has no dedicated adaptive-sports program, so the grant will fund the creation of a new program.
ConTinued from page 1
AUGUST 13 • 10AM-12:30PM
CONGREGATION OHAV SHOLOM
145 S MERRICK AVE, MERRICK
FREE community event focused on health, wellness, and lifestyle
Meet trusted local exhibitors and service providers
Take advantage of on-site health screenings
Enjoy lively entertainment, fitness demonstrations and interactive experiences
Win raffles, prizes, and giveaways
Snack station for all
Hear from experts during a panel discussion with Q&A
*Boxed lunches for first 150 attendees
All designed to help you stay active, informed, and engaged at every stage of life.
Fair celebrates community, student success
Nassau University Medical Center, the Childcare Council of Nassau, Diamond Charter School, Choice for All and the Nassau County Board of Elections. Each organization had helpful representatives eager to engage with attendees. NUMC offered guests blood pressure, blood glucose and pulse oximetry screenings.
“It’s a very rewarding feeling just to be able to serve and help people,” Gelia Alejandro, the community outreach physician liaison for NUMC, said. “It’s priceless. It’s just a great feeling.”
The Board of Elections provided a variety of voter information, such as voter registration, absentee ballots and how to become a poll worker. Joseph Lopez, a Board of Elections employee, helps citizens practice their right to vote.
“It’s an honor to be able to work at the 250th birthday of America [and] be able to uphold the integrity of the elections,” Lopez said.
Another organization sharing information at the fair is directed by scholarship recipients. Abigail Murray, 19, is a co-founder and project leader of Compassion Companions, a nonprofit that helps children and families facing housing insecurity. Murray said that since starting the nonprofit when she was 15, Compassion Companions has been able to assist three homeless shelters, serv-
ing over 500 people.
Murray is the winner of the Elite Scholarship Foundation’s Beauty for Ashes Scholarship and is studying human resources and industrial labor relations at the University at Buffalo. She said she wants to use her education to continue to help people facing housing insecurity as well as those in other marginalized groups.
Another scholarship winner at the fair was Light Ativie, 18, who won the
Mike
Katydee, 8, and Erica, 10, raced with scholarship winner Light Ativie as the referee.
foundation’s Elite Scholarship of Leadership. He is entering his first year at the University at Albany in September, where he will major in cybersecurity and minor in psychology.
“I hope that I can go on and eventually become an entrepreneur in the future with both my knowledge of cybersecurity and psychology,” Ativie said. “The scholarship is going to be very helpful for that. I’m very grateful for it.”
Both Murray and Ativie were invited
to the stage and presented with their scholarships by Mills. Proud friends and family of the recipients were there to cheer them on. Other Elite Scholarship Foundation recipients who were absent from the fair are Nailinie Kemraj and Kymora Dorvilus.
“We noticed that they have a heart for not just themselves but for others,” Mills said of the four recipients.
To learn more, visit elitescholarshipfoundation.org.
Courtesy Paula Mills
Jacob Dixon, far left, founder and CEO of Choice for All and the fair’s main sponsor; Latoya Smith-Leslie, the Elite Scholarship Foundation’s interim secretary; Patricia Brewington, its treasurer; Chrishnah Mills, its vice president; and Paula Mills, its president and CEO, celebrated the achievements of scholarship recipients Light Ativie, 18, an incoming freshman at the University at Albany, and Abigail Murray, 19, a co-founder and project leader of Compassion Companions.
The fair featured a children’s story time.
Monahan/Herald photos
COnTinUED FrOM PAgE 1
Our
have been serving the community for over 40 years and maintain faculty appointments at leading academic hospital centers, including NYU.
surgical, and cosmetic dermatologic care.
To make it easy for you to take care of your skin. With Sunday appointments, after work/school hours, and no additional fee for a cosmetic consultation, we pledge to always put your skin first.
Russell W. Cohen, MD FAAD
Mark K. Silverman, MD FAAD
Craig Kornreich, MD FAAD
Elie B. Lowenstein, MD FAAD
Roxanne J. Abitbol, MD FAAD
Sari B. Weinstein, MD FAAD Eric J. Feit, MD
Rebecca Sklar, RPA-C
FREE SUMMER CONCERTS
FRIDAY, AUGUST 7
7:00PM
TOH, Northwell Health speak on sun safety
By CHRIS COLUCCI
As beachgoers soak in the sun and outdoor activities fill most days, skin care and cancer prevention tips are as critical as ever.
Town of Hempstead Supervisor John Ferretti held a news conference at the Town Park at Point Lookout the morning of July 9, joined by partners from Northwell Health, to launch the town’s Summertime Wellness Series.
“This program offers residents convenient access to important health services,” Ferretti said. “We urge all of our town residents in the Town of Hempstead to get checked on an annual basis for skin cancer,” Ferretti explained, “Whether that’s here in a town facility or with your own dermatologist.”
Wthe conference discussing more realities surrounding skin cancer. “We estimate that one in five people will develop skin cancer by the age of 70,” Villa-Ruiz stated. “It is a very common, but preventable, cancer that has a high cure rate. Have your skin cancer screenings. Visit your dermatologist if you see anything that’s changing, growing, or bleeding.”
e urge all of our town residents in the Town of Hempstead to get checked on an annual basis for skin cancer.
JOHn feRRettI Supervisor
Ferretti shared effective tips to mitigate UV exposure, including the use of sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher; aiming to stay in the shade during peak sunlight hours, typically 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and wearing proper clothing, sunglasses and headwear when outdoors.
Town of Hempstead
Dr. Camila Villa-Ruiz, a dermatologist at Northwell Health, spoke at
Individuals with tattoos, or anyone considering getting a tattoo, should take extra precaution. “It is harder to screen, especially when you have tattoos that are covering moles,” VillaRuiz said. “It is definitely harder, but we can still do it. I would highly recommend to not get tattoos over existing moles.”
A second wellness series event and free skin cancer screening was held on July 16 at Veterans Memorial Park Pool in East Meadow. The series concluded with a presentation on Four Ways to Save a Life — including how to administer CPR, how to use an automated external defibrillator and other potentially life-saving practices — on July 23 at the Echo Park Pool Complex in West Hempstead.
Chris Colucci / Herald
Town of Hempstead Supervisor John Ferretti, at podium, was joined, from left, by
Councilwoman Laura Ryder, Town Clerk Kate Murray, Councilman Tom Muscarella, Dr. Camila Villa-Ruiz from Northwell Health and Deputy Supervisor Dorothy Goosby.
STEPPING OUT
For Michelle Taplin, seen here at a spring showcase, theater is about more than performance. Through Tap Into Your Passion, she is helping young actors develop the confidence, resilience and skills to succeed both onstage and off.
Opening doors to the stage
By Iris Wiener
Michelle Taplin has spent much of her life immersed in the performing arts, but her greatest role may be helping the next generation discover their own voices. What began as a longtime dream has grown into Tap Into Your Passion, a thriving coaching and arts education company that, more than a year after its official launch, is already making a lasting impact on aspiring performers across the region.
As Tap Into Your Passion marks its first year and a half, Taplin celebrates the milestone with a special fundraising gala on Aug. 10 in The Green Room 42 in New York City that reflects the heart of her mission: making quality theater education accessible to everyone.
For Taplin, the journey started long before she opened her Rockville Centre-based business. Growing up in Oceanside, she balanced voice lessons, dance classes, gymnastics, and community theater while nurturing two lifelong ambitions: becoming a theater educator and one day opening her own company. Inspired by Oceanside High School theater teacher Laura Gallo, she pursued degrees in theater and business at Muhlenberg College before earning an MA in theater education from Adelphi University. Along the way, she gained experience as a performer, director, choreographer, stage manager, and arts administrator while also spending six years with the Sunrise Association, where she developed an inclusive teaching philosophy serving children with cancer and their siblings. Those experiences continue to shape every lesson she teaches today.
Taplin continues to wear many hats. She teaches theater at both the middle and high school in Oceanside, and directs productions with the school district and community theaters, including Plaza Theatricals. She also advises student organizations and mentors countless young performers. Tap Into Your Passion has become a natural extension of everything she loves most about teaching.
“Tap Into Your Passion’s mission is to provide theater education without costing an arm and a leg,” Taplin says, explaining that she wanted to remove financial barriers for students pursuing careers in the performing arts. She offers three primary services: private coaching for performers ages nine and up; a comprehensive college audition program that guides students through every step of the competitive application process; and a monthly master class series featuring accomplished Broadway performers, choreographers, casting directors, and other industry professionals.
The response has been exceptional. Taplin credits much of Tap Into Your Passion’s early success to the generosity of the artists who have shared their time and expertise. Taplin explains that each workshop has
Theater coach celebrates a milestone
reinforced the lessons she teaches her students while helping to build a supportive network where young performers can learn directly from professionals working in the industry.
Rather than molding students into “cookie-cutter performers,” Taplin encourages them to embrace their individuality. She believes there is no single path to success in theater and exposing students to a wide variety of artistic voices helps them discover the techniques and perspectives that resonate most authentically.
That philosophy has attracted students from throughout Long Island and Manhattan. Students from Floral Park, Oceanside, Lynbrook, Sewanhaka, Elmont, Rockville Centre, East Rockaway, Garden City, and New York City, among other places, create a diverse community connected by a shared love of theater.
“Michelle always makes sure to put care and respect into all of her students’ work sessions,” says Kevin Kirley, a student from Rockville Centre who now attends New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts. “She has also been so integral to my journey throughout the college audition process. Her teaching has been extremely influential to me as a working actor, and I will take what I have learned throughout my training into my artistry.”
For Taplin, arts education extends well beyond singing, dancing or acting. She advocates that theater teaches empathy, collaboration, resilience, confidence, communication, and determination — life skills that benefit students regardless of whether they ultimately pursue careers on stage.
“It’s what the process teaches you,” she says, emphasizing that the personal growth students experience is often more valuable than the performances themselves.
Those values will be front and center shortly when Tap Into Your Passion hosts its Broadway Gives Back gala. The evening will feature performances by many of the Broadway artists and teaching professionals who have led Taplin’s master classes, each sharing a song that inspired their own theatrical journey. Beyond celebrating the company’s growth, the fundraiser will support Taplin’s goal of keeping coaching and master classes affordable for aspiring performers while demonstrating to students the passion that fuels successful careers in the arts.
As Tap Into Your Passion enters its second year, Taplin aims to continue expanding its reach while maintaining the close-knit community that has become its hallmark. She envisions welcoming more students, introducing them to even more accomplished professionals, and reminding every young artist that there is room for their unique voice in the theater world. Looking back on Tap’s remarkable beginning and the theater community’s willingness to help, Taplin relates that the experience has reinforced one lesson above all others: “The answer will always be ‘no’ if you don’t ask.”
It is a philosophy that has helped transform a childhood dream into a flourishing business, and one that continues to inspire the students following in her footsteps.
Visit TheGreenRoom42.VenueTix.com for tickets or more information about Where It All Began: Broadway Gives Back.
Double Vision: The Foreigner Experience
Comprising a group of exceptionally talented musicians and die-hard Foreigner fans, Double Vision has perfected the art of bringing to life the unforgettable hits that have defined generations. From “I Want to Know What Love Is” to “Cold as Ice,” Their renditions are a harmonious blend of passion, precision, and nostalgic energy. Drawing inspiration from Foreigner’s unmistakable sound and stage presence, Double Vision delivers a performance that pays homage to the band’s legacy while infusing their own charisma and enthusiasm. Their commitment to authenticity is matched only by their unwavering dedication to creating an electrifying experience for their audiences.
Saturday, Aug. 1, 8 p.m. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington.
Vishal & Sheykhar
Brace yourself for a high-octane night with Bollywood’s most electrifying music duo – Vishal and Shekhar! VishalDadlani and Shekhar (formerly Shekhar) Ravjiani return to the states, following a completely sold-out U.S. run in 2025. Experience the energy and excitement of The Superhit Tour as acclaimed music duo Vishal and Sheykhar take the stage. Known for creating some of Bollywood’s biggest hits, the duo brings a powerhouse performance filled with fan-favorite songs, dynamic production and a concert atmosphere that will have the entire audience singing along. Expect a night packed with unforgettable music, stunning visuals, and the signature sound that has made them global sensations.
Sunday, Aug. 2, 7 p.m. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter. org or (516) 299-3100. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville.
Photos courtesy Michelle Taplin
Student Bella Romero performs at the spring showcase at The Green Room 42.
Broadway’s Krystina Alabado, right, leads a master class.
Your Neighborhood CALENDAR
jul 30
‘Summer of Love’ Pet Adoption
The Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter welcomes summer with the return of its “Summer of Love” pet adoption program. Now through Sept. 6 all pet adoption fees will be waived, making it easier than ever to adopt a pet. Each adoption includes free spaying/neutering, vaccinations and microchipping. Additionally, there is only a $10 licensing fee for dogs. The town animal shelter is home to playful pups and laidback cats waiting for a fresh start. Check out the friendly faces of the dogs and cat before arriving at shelter. Browse photos and profiles at hempsteadny.gov/179/animalshelter or on the shelter’s Facebook page.
• Where: 3320, Beltagh Ave., Wantagh
• Time: Ongoing
• Contact: at hempsteadny. gov/179/animal-shelter or (516) 785-5220
jul
31
Classic Car Show Mazda Valley Stream, in partnership with the Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce, hosts classic car shows on Friday nights throughout the summer. With a DJ at each show. Cars are parked as they enter. Saving of parking spaces is not allowed.
• Where: Rockaway Avenue|
• Time: 6-9 p.m., ongoing weekly
• Contact: (516) 318-4816 or (646) 235-2129
Summer grooves
Eisenhower Park’s Summer Concert Series welcomes Grateful Dead tribute band Half Step. The Long Island-based band are dedicated fans and “students” of the Grateful Dead, capturing the spirit, improvisation, sound and complexity of Grateful Dead music. Half Step has been mastering their craft since 2004 while winning over crowds of veteran Deadheads, newcomers and non-Dead fans alike. Like the Grateful Dead themselves, the band is constantly pushing the envelope, growing together as musicians and performers.
• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov or (516) 572-0200
Pool Dance Concert
As part of this summer’s Arthur J. Hendrickson Pool concert series, Louis
Franz Ferdinand
soaring three-part harmonies and enduring hits including “There Goes Another Love Song” and the epic “Green Grass & High Tides.” Led by founding singer, songwriter and guitarist Henry Paul, The Outlaws have continued to tour and record while honoring the band’s legacy with a revitalized lineup. Expect an energetic set blending timeless favorites with newer material, showcasing the musicianship and sound that helped define Southern rock
• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov or (516) 572-0200
Dog Days
The Scottish band brings their Greater Glasgow European Cultural Exchange Tour to the Paramount stage, in support of their latest album, “The Human Fear,” which dropped in January. Since emerging from Glasgow’s art-school scene — where the band famously staged illegal parties in abandoned buildings — Franz Ferdinand has built a reputation for bold sharp hooks, infectious riffs and a fearless approach to reinvention. The band’s sixth studio album explores the emotions that define the human experience, transforming fear from something to avoid into something that awakens us. From the vulnerability of new relationships to the courage required to embrace change, “The Human Fear” channels those moments of uncertainty into songs packed with energy, urgency and unmistakable Franz Ferdinand style. Following the retrospective collection “Hits To The Head,” their latest album marks a new chapter for the group — one that honors its signature sound while pushing forward. Expect a high-energy performance filled with the clever songwriting, driving rhythms and irresistible beats that have made Franz Ferdinand one of the most influential bands of its generation. At this point in their career, Franz Ferdinand definitely know who they are, and are relishing the vigor that comes with accepting that
Del Prete, “Mr. Saturday Night,” performs. Open to Valley Stream residents and CHSD Neighbors. Seating is limited, so it is recommended to bring a chair.
• Where: Arthur J. Hendrickson Pool (behind the pool)
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Contact: (516) 821-3786
Storybook Stroll
Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for a Storybook Stroll. Little listeners are invited to participate in a guided stroll through the Gardens, with a reading of “StellaLuna” by Janell Cannon. Along the way, discover nature’s wonders, in the formal gardens. The tour ends at the Thatched Cottage with a story and hands-on craft for each child to take home.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
‘Salute to Veterans’ Eisenhower Park’s Summer Concert Series continues with the annual Salute to Veterans show. Desert Highway performs an Eagles tribute. American Bombshell also appears.
• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside
Theatre, East Meadow
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov or (516) 572-0200
AuG
2
Family theater
Lance the Eagle welcomes families to “A Semi-QuincentenEAGLE Birthday” on the Long Island Children’s Museum stage. In this original production, families are invited to celebrate his birthday. His message: As the national bird, this party will be happening throughout the whole month of July. Come to think of it, I did hear something about a birthday for the United States of America as well. Hmm... must be a coincidence! I’ll be throwing a parade through LICM’s galleries and a celebratory spectacle in the Theater. Come ready to party!” Keep an eye out 30 minutes before each show for a special interactive pre-show! For ages 3+. $5 with museum admission ($4 members), $10 theater only.
• Where: 11 Davis Ave., Garden City
• Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; also Aug. 5
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
AuG
5
Summertime tunes
The village’s concert series continues with Bon Journey, a Bon Jovi and Journey tribute band.
• Where: Village Band Shell
• Time: 8 pm
• Contact: (516) 825-4200
Family movie night
Enjoy a movie under the stars at Eisenhower Park. See Disney’s “Zootopia 2,’” the animated buddy cop comedy sequel. Brave rabbit cop Judy Hopps and her friend, the fox Nick Wilde, team up again to crack a new case, the most perilous and intricate of their careers.
• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow
• Time: Movie begins at dusk
• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov
Summer
rocks on Eisenhower Park’s Summer Concert Series welcomes The Outlaws. The southern rock legends bring more than five decades of guitar-driven classics to fans here. Formed in Tampa in 1972, the band became known for its signature triple-guitar attack,
6
It really is the dog days of summer! Celebrate the season with your four-legged best friend during the popular Summer Dog Days Weekend at Old Westbury Gardens. Leashed dogs are welcome to join you for a stroll through the beautiful gardens and grounds at Old Westbury Gardens. It’s the perfect excuse to get outside and enjoy summer together.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 10 a.m.-6 p.m., also Aug. 9
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048 AuG
Summertime sounds Broadway’s biggest hits take center stage when Neil Berg’s “100 Years of Broadway” returns to Eisenhower Park. Hosted by acclaimed composer and pianist Neil Berg, the crowdpleasing concert features a cast of Broadway performers singing unforgettable songs from classic musicals alongside favorites from today’s biggest shows. Blending powerhouse vocals, music and behind-the-scenes stories about the productions and stars, the performance offers a lively celebration of the Great White Way.
• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov or (516) 572-0200
Having an event?
Items on the Calendar page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to kbloom@ liherald.com.
Nearly 200 students participate in Valley Stream summer music program
About 200 students from across Valley Stream participated in the Valley Stream Central High School District’s Summer Music Program in July.
The three-week intensive program is designed to develop students’ musical skills while building confidence and fostering a lifelong love of music.
The program serves students from Valley Stream’s three elementary school districts as well as high school students. Returning student musicians continued developing the skills they acquired during the school year, while incoming fourth graders from Valley Stream Dis-
tricts 13, 24 and 30 received instrumental instruction before formal lessons begin in September.
All students attended two 50-minute small-group lessons each week.
“One of the highlights of the summer was watching students continue their musical journey outside of the regular school year,” Monique Retzlaff, director of fine and performing arts, said. “Their dedication and the outstanding work of our music teachers made this a rewarding experience for everyone involved.”
— Angelina Zingariello
Courtesy Valley Stream Central High School District
Music instructor Danny Pineyro worked with students during a small-group saxophone lesson in the Valley Stream Central High School District’s Summer Music Program.
July 30, 2026 —
LEGAL NOTICE
Public Notices
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF NASSAU, STATE OF NEW YORK
MORTGAGE AGENCY
(SONYMA), Plaintiff, vs. MARVIN DARIUS, ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to an Order
Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on December 8, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on August 10, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 21 North Montague Street, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37, Block 221 and Lots 10-12. Approximate amount of judgment is $598,329.41 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #620598/2024. Cash will not be accepted.
Jared A. Kasschau, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 161054
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCAF ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. FRANK J. ROTH A/K/A FRANK ROTH, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee’s Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on May 19, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on August 11, 2026 at 3:00 p.m., premises known as 27 Gotham Street, Valley Stream a/k/a South Valley Stream, NY 11581. All
that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 39, Block 319 and Lot 206. Approximate amount of judgment is $605,303.50 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #607162/2022. Cash will not be accepted.
Christine Grillo, Esq., Referee
Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff 161050
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT NASSAU COUNTY CITIMORTGAGE, INC., Plaintiff against SHARIQ M. MAJEED, et al Defendant(s)
Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Stern & Eisenberg, P.C., 20 Commerce Drive, Suite 230, Cranford, NJ 07016 and 1131 Route 55, Suite 1, Lagrangeville, NY 12540.
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered July 26, 2024, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on August 20, 2026 at 2:00PM. Premises known as 96 Brentwood Lane, Valley Stream, NY 11581. Sec 39 Block 525 Lot 13. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $750,454.63 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 607408/2023. For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. During the COVID-19 health emergency, Bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of the sale including but not limited to wearing face coverings and maintaining social
distancing (at least 6feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Should a bidder fail to comply, the Referee may refuse to accept any bid, cancel the closing and hold the bidder in default. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, then the Court Appointed Referee shall cancel the foreclosure auction. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.”
Brian J. Davis, Esq., Referee File # NY202200000810-1 161206
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, AS SUCCESSOR-ININTEREST TO U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE, FOR THE HOLDERS OF THE CIM TRUST 2020-R3, MORTGAGE-BACKED NOTES, SERIES 2020R3, Plaintiff, vs. ALLEN STEVENSON A/K/A ALLEN R. STEVENSON, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on November 7, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on August 20, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 68 Oceanview Avenue, Valley Stream, NY 11581 a/k/a 11580. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 42, Block 270 and Lots 27, 28, 29, 30, & 46.
Approximate amount of judgment is $647,543.70 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #616497/2023. Frank M. Scalera, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff, Firm File No.: 230501-1 161180
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE OF LSF9 MASTER PARTICIPATION TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST CARMEN COREAS, DANIEL COREAS, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 30, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on August 25, 2026 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 34 East 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 and State of New York, Section 37 Block 192 and Lot 8. Approximate amount of judgment $596,120.29 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #605700/2023. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. Peter L. Kramer, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-000154 90596 161174
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, PACIFIC ASSET HOLDINGS, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. APOGEE CONSORTIUM GROUP LLC, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee
News brief
Second Burlington at Green Acres approved
The Town of Hempstead Industrial Development Agency has approved a new lease for Burlington at Green Acres Mall, agency Chief Executive Fred Parola announced.
“This new lease with Burlington is evidence of Green Acres’ attractiveness to both consumers and retailers, justifying the IDA’s continued investment in these shopper centers,” Parola said.
The lease, which is subject to execution, is for an approximately 93,000-square-foot space. The store is expected to employ 10 full-time workers, 55 part-time workers and 62 seasonal employees.
The Town of Hempstead Industrial Development Agency has approved a new lease for Burlington at Green Acres Mall.
The new location will be Burlington’s second store at the Green Acres shopping complex. The retailer opened a store in the adjacent Green Acres Commons outdoor shopping center in 2016.
In April 2024, the IDA approved fiveyear extensions of payment-in-lieu-oftaxes agreements, or PILOTs, for Green Acres Mall and Green Acres Commons. The agreements were originally granted in 2015. Both properties are owned by the Macerich Co.
–Angelina Zingariello
Public Notices
Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on August 14, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on September 2, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 1096 Marc Drive, Valley Stream, NY 11581 a/k/a 11580. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being near Valley Stream, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 39, Block 512 and Lot 16. Approximate amount of judgment is $620,323.15 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #614970/2024.
Jane Pastor Shrenkel, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 241746-1 161422
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE
Supreme Court County of Nassau Deutsche Bank National Trust Company as Trustee for the Certificateholders of the Soundview Home Loan Trust 2005-DO1, AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2005-DO1, Plaintiff AGAINST Vester Rivera, et al, Defendant Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 8, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, North sides of the steps, Mineola, NY 11501 on August 27, 2026 at 2:00 PM premises known as 33 Ridgewood Street, 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 County of Nassau, State of New York, SECTION: 37, BLOCK: 310, LOT: 58. Approximate amount of judgment is $541,611.59 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 616858/2018. This sale
may be subject to the US Dept of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network Real Estate Reporting Rule. In such event, all purchasers are required to provide the information needed for proper reporting in accordance with the terms of sale. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. Scott Siller, Referee FRENKEL LAMBERT WEISMAN & GORDON LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-087679-F00 90795 161397
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court County of Nassau Wells Fargo Bank, National Association as Trustee for Securitized Asset Back Receivables LLC 2005-FR5 Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-FR5, Plaintiff AGAINST Anthony J. Graziano, et al, Defendant Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on September 1, 2016, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive,
North sides of the steps, Mineola, NY 11501 on August 27, 2026 at 2:00 PM premises known as 41 Higbie Street, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the County of Nassau, State of New York, SECTION: 37., BLOCK: 574, LOT: 5. Approximate amount of judgment is $531,155.02 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 005364/2013. This sale may be subject to the US Dept of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network Real Estate Reporting Rule. In such event, all purchasers are required to provide the information needed for proper reporting in accordance with the terms of sale. For sale information, please visit XOME at www.XOME.com or call 844-400-9663.
Janine T. Lynam, Referee FRENKEL LAMBERT WEISMAN & GORDON LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-059283-F00 90738
Herald file photo
ROOSEVELT
CHILDREN’S ACADEMY CHARTER SCHOOL
Roosevelt Children’s Academy Charter School was the first charter school to be established in Long Island, New York. We are always looking for NYS Certified energetic Teachers, RTI/ELA Teachers. Response To Intervention/English Language Arts Teachers. Special Education (Special Ed) Teacher, and Substitute Teachers to join our organization.
STARTING SALARIES
• Teacher • RTI/ELA TEACHERS
• Special Ed Bachelor Cert $54,308.70K Master Cert $59,847.63K
• Substitute Teachers - $40K
IF YOU THINK YOU CAN ADD TO THE FOCUS OF RCACS PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR COVER LETTER AND RESUME TO rdillehay@rcacs.org Main Location
Pleasant Avenue, Roosevelt, New York 11575 516-867-6202 • www.rcacs.org
EMPLOYMENT
Help Wanted
DRIVERS WANTED
Full Time and Part Time Positions Available! Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239
EDITOR/REPORTER
Part Time & Full Time. 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 offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com
MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
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. Compensation ranges from $35,360 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
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. Earning potential ranges from $35,360 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits,
For The Before & After School Child Care Programs That Will Be Opening For The 2026 - 2027 School Year In Nassau and Suffolk County Elementary Schools
Hiring Directors, Assistants, Group Leaders and Substitutes. Up to a $500 Signing Bonuses, Scholarships and Employee Referrals Questions call: 631-360-0800 ext. 149 or send a resume to: cc@scopeonline.us SCOPE Education is an equal opportunity Employer
HomesHERALD
Beautiful Colonial
Do we have to submit complete house plans just for a garage?
Q. We were recently told that our permit plans, to be approved, were going to have to include plans of the entire house, not just the garage area we are bumping out on the side. We were wondering if you have heard of this or whether we are being singled out. Our architect said that it may be because we have to go to the zoning board. Is this the reason, or did we say something wrong and are being punished? We asked, several times, for an update, because things are moving very slowly and we get the impression the building department just wants us to go away. They work for us and I think we deserve better service, frankly.
A. Trust but verify is now a common expression, and with good reason. What I have noticed over the years is that complete information is more often required, showing unrelated areas of the home, because many people have not been truthful about building changes or about how much work they have done, without permits, in other parts of the home. Because of this issue, many plans examiners ask for the big picture, not just the area you are interested in. It is obvious, when looking at file records in building departments and then comparing them to the actual dwelling during a walkthrough.
Your dilemma is due to the lack of trust between the authorities and the public. If the building inspector notices that the plans and the home don’t exactly compare, they can ask for “revised” plans to be submitted. It is frustrating, right at the end of a project, when people are ready to move on with their lives, to find out that the “simple, little changes” and side work they did require revised plans to be submitted to their building department. It is much worse to learn about changes or not following plans many years later.
Contractors and owners may get away with not communicating in the short term, but it does not pay, in the long run, to hide information. When someone realizes they bought a house with inherited, hidden issues which they are now responsible for, they feel taken advantage of. Worse than that are the costly corrections that have to be made because something that has existed for years may not be code-compliant. It happens all too often that unrelated portions of the building become a stumbling block to getting approvals for what you are really looking to do.
You are probably not being singled out, but you have been put in this position by previous workers and owners who did not take the record-updating seriously. People have told me, with a grin, that “By the time anyone notices, we’ll all be long gone.” I just came from a jobsite where work was done 16 years prior, the plans were not followed, and a structural failure is occurring that is going to be expensive to fix. The whole picture, not just part, is, therefore, important. Good luck!
LYNBROOK: SATURDAY, August 1, 2026 9am- 7:30pm. 1 Daley Place (Corner of Noble Street). Brand New Stuff, Shoes, Pocketbooks, Bric-a-brac, Custom Jewelry, Kids' Toys, Clothes
Announcements
JOIN US EVERY FRIDAY at 7:30 pm, the Baha’i Center, 11 West Jamaica, Valley Stream For prayers, meditation, reflection, fellowship and refreshments. All are welcome.
APPLIANCE DOCTOR FOR ALL YOUR APPLIANCE REPAIRS! Prompt, Reasonable, Reliable. All Repairs Guaranteed. Lic/Ins. Serving Community 45 Years. $10 OFF Repairs. Seniors $12 OFF. 516-764-7011
THE APPLIANCE KING: Washers, Dryers, Dishwashers, Microwaves, Stoves, Refrigerators. WE RULE REPAIR ! $10 Off Repair With Ad. Senior Discount. Lic/Ins #201025, Call 516.640.8593
Cable/TV/Wiring
Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 OnDemand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-782-4069
Cleaning Services
WENDY'S CLEANING SERVICES INC.
Commercial/Residential. We Specialize In Houses, Apartments, Offices, Airbnb & More. Good References. Free Estimates. Call/Text Wendy 516-406-5375 Or Email wencruzpa@gmail.com
Electricians
E-Z ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC.
All Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas. Services/Repairs. Violations Removed. Free Estimates Low Rates. 516-785-0646 Lic/Ins.
Home Improvement
AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER?
STORM DAMAGE? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-877-318-7982
BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-877-271-0003
DO YOU KNOW what's in your water? Leaf Home Water Solutions offers FREE water testing and whole home water treatment systems that can be installed in as little one day. 15% off your entire purchase. Plus 10% senior & military discounts. Restrictions apply. Schedule your FREE test today. Call 1-866-247-5728
PREPARE FOR POWER outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-877-516-1160 today to schedule a free quote. It's not just a generator. It's a power move.
PREPARE FOR POWER outages with Briggs & Stratton® PowerProtect(TM) standby generators - the most powerful home standby generators available. Industry-leading comprehensive warranty - 7 years ($849 value.) Proudly made in the U.S.A. Call Briggs & Stratton 1-888-605-1496
SAFE STEP. NORTH America's #1 WalkIn Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-855-916-5473
Miscellaneous
GET BOOST INFINITE! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 844-329-9391
Power Washing
POWERWASHING ALL SURFACES: Houses, Fences, Concrete/ Brick, Decks/Sealing. ANTHONY & J HOME IMPROVEMENT, INC. 516-678-6641
Services
PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-877-290-0023 Have zip code of property ready when calling!
Sprinkler Syst./Irrig.Wells
LAWN SPRINKLERS
Installed & Serviced. Repairs, Installations, Upgrades. Celebrating USA 250 Year Anniversary $250 OFF with any new sprinkler installation completed by 8/15/26 Plus $25 OFF Any service call Must mention ad when booking appointment - Exp. 8/15/26 Satisfying Customers for over 44 years. Licensed & Insured COUNTY IRRIGATION 516-255-9595 www.countyirrigation.com
Telephone Services
CONSUMER CELLULAR - the same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-844-919-1682
DIRECTV- All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Directv and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
END YOUR TAX worries today. Let us make your tax problem our priority. Scared, stuck with high tax amounts? Our A+ tax professionals can help. Call for a FREE consultation. Call Priority Tax now 1877-663-7719
Health & Fitness
ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-877-536-0251
ATTENTION: VIAGRA AND CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 1-877-468-3979
Internet Services
AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET. If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-877-461-0663
Legal Services
INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT? Don't Accept the insurance company's first offer. Many injured parties are entitled to major cash settlements. Get a free evaluation to see what your case is really worth. 100% Free Evaluation. Call Now: 1-877-315-0990. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest provider.
Medical
AUDIEN HEARING. THE world's first hearing aid with touchscreen controls. No tiny buttons, apps or prescriptions. 45-day risk free trial. Free shipping. Lifetime support. More than 1.5 million happy customers. Call Audien 1-855-484-2093
Tutoring
and
AUTOMOBILE
&
MARINE
The documentary on Steven McDonald is a must-see
Recently I saw a screening of the documentary about the late NYPD detective Steven McDonald, “Saint of the City.” McDonald was a true hero. In 1986, as a young police officer, he was shot and permanently paralyzed by 15-year-old Shavod Jones, whom he was questioning about a series of bicycle thefts in Central Park. Jones shot McDonald three times, the third time while he was lying on the ground, shattering his spine and leaving him a quadriplegic, needing a ventilator to breathe.
McDonald not only survived, but forgave Jones and went on to live more than 30 heroic years of dedicated service, without complaint or self-pity, until his death in 2017.
Steven and his wife, Patti Ann, lived in Malverne during that time with their son, Conor, who was born just months after his father was shot. Patti Ann went on to serve two terms as Malverne’s mayor. “Saint of the City” was written by veteran Emmy-award winning WPIX-TV reporter Mary Murphy
and produced by Erin Mulvey, a former DEA agent. Filled with facts, emotion and perspective, the film captures the essence of McDonald as an outstanding human being who inspired so many.
I met with him over the years at various police events, at his home in Malverne and in Congress. Those meetings made vividly clear to me just how devastating his injuries were. He was not only confined to a wheelchair, but incapable of moving any party of his body except his head, and he had no sense of feeling anywhere.
The NYPD detective forgave the teen who shot him, leaving him a quadriplegic.
Once when he gave me a book he had written, he inscribed it for me with a Sharpie he held between his teeth.
His breathing was labored, and required a ventilator. At any time he could be struck with severe spasms lasting 30 seconds to a minute. These were difficult to observe, never mind having to endure them.
As the film depicts, McDonald persevered through all of this. He regularly spoke at high schools and to young cops.
He was also an articulate voice for peace and justice in Northern Ireland, not just attending events in New York, but traveling to Northern Ireland to
urge those on all sides — Catholics and Protestants, pro-British and pro-Irish — to resolve their differences and pursue the path to peace. McDonald’s efforts were particularly beneficial in the months following the signing of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, when radicals attempted to shatter the peace accord with a horrific bombing attack in Omagh, Northern Ireland, that killed 29 civilians and injured more than 200. His presence at such a critical time delivered a strong message about the necessity of maintaining peace and allowing the agreement to be implemented.
I remember when Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern addressed a joint session of Congress and singled out McDonald, who was seated in the House gallery. At a reception later that day, Sen. Ted Kennedy asked me to introduce Ahern to McDonald.
The film also highlights how McDonald was sustained by his Catholic faith, and particularly by the advice and consolation he received from Father Mychal Judge, the chaplain of the FDNY who died at the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, and Cardinal John O’Connor, who McDonald told me would visit him at his Malverne home
to help him through tough moments. McDonald also organized prayer groups that met regularly.
The “Saint of the City” screening took place at the Marymount School, in Manhattan. Among those in attendance were former NYPD Commissioners Ray Kelly and Keechant Sewell, former Detective Bo Dietl and many high-ranking police officials and officers who worked with McDonald or got to know him over the years. Magee Hickey of WPIX, WINS reporter Juliet Papa and Daily News columnist Michael Daly were also there.
From the sports world there was Mets all-time great relief pitcher Jesse Orosco, who, after pitching the final innings of the Mets’ final 1986 World Series game against the Red Sox, had thrown his glove high in the air. Days later, Orosco gave the glove to McDonald, a longtime Mets fan.
Most notable among the attendees, of course, were Steven’s widow, Patti Ann, and their son, Conor, who is now a captain in the NYPD. Both personify and carry on the inspirational legacy of Steven McDonald, who was truly a saint among us. Once it is distributed, be sure to see “Saint of the City.”
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
Let’s stop student debt from killing the American dream
For generations, the American dream has represented something tangible: the ability to build a stable life through hard work. But for millions in the United States who are burdened by student debt, the dream remains just that: a dream. Nowhere is that more evident than on Long Island, where the average resident carries more than $35,000 in student loan debt and the median home price has surpassed $750,000.
According to the Pew Research Center, one in four Americans under 40 has student debt. Between high interest rates and wages that haven’t kept pace with the cost of living, many borrowers spend decades trying to pay off an education that was supposed to create opportunity, not limit it.
ages 25 and 34 have left the region over the past eight years. Student debt and housing costs are inseparable drivers of that exodus.
Student debt makes the American dream unattainable, or, at best, greatly deferred. Gallup reports that 71 percent of student borrowers delay major life milestones — homeownership, parenthood, starting a business, retirement — because of their debt. On Long Island, those delays have a geographic consequence: 22 percent of residents between
Recent federal policy changes are deepening the problem. The elimination of the Saving on a Valuable Education Plan will push millions into significantly higher monthly payments, a serious hardship for families already stretched thin. For many, even a modest increase in monthly loan obligations can push financial stability out of reach. The answer is not to discourage higher education. A college degree remains one of the strongest predictors of lifetime earnings, and Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce projects that nearly 72 percent of jobs will require some form of postsecondary education by 2031. Low entry-level wages and high monthly loan payments, however, mean that too many Americans will face decades of financial strain.
We can’t keep asking young adults to choose between building a career and building a life.
That trade-off reshapes the labor market in ways that affect us all. Gallup
reports that 51 percent of employees with student debt are seeking new employment, and more than half of job seekers say their loan obligations significantly influence which offers they’ll accept. New graduates feel compelled to chase the highest-paying jobs rather than the professions they’re best suited to, creating workforce shortages in the fields our communities need most.
For Long Island employers, student debt is both a challenge and an opportunity. One of the few constructive developments in federal legislation is the permanent extension of tax-free employer contributions to employee student loans. Employers can contribute up to $5,250 annually toward an employee’s student debt with no federal tax burden for either party. Employers of all sizes can implement this support quickly and cost-effectively, strengthening recruitment, retention, and the financial well-being of their workforce. New York is positioned to build on that progress. Paidly, a platform that empowers employers, borrowers, students and their families to make education affordable, has been working with state legislators to allow tax-free payroll
deductions for student loans and education savings plans. Combined with the existing federal benefit, New Yorkers could direct up to $8,750 annually in taxadvantaged student loan relief — a real and immediate impact for borrowers trying to pay down debt, save for a home or simply stay on Long Island. These solutions are practical, affordable and achievable. Being highly educated and highly skilled should not come with a lifetime sentence of debt. And the 22-year-old who graduates from Hofstra or Stony Brook or Nassau Community College should be able to imagine a future here instead of being forced to leave the moment the loans come due.
New York has an opportunity to lead the nation in supporting our workers. By expanding taxadvantaged student loan assistance to the state level and encouraging employers to become part of the solution, we can restore financial stability for working families and make the American dream attainable for Long Islanders.
John Scully is the CEO of Paidly, and Samantha Park is the platform’s content specialist.
There’s always someone downwind
there’s a particular quality to the light when the smoke arrives. It goes flat and white, the sun turns into a coin you can look at directly, and the air smells faintly like someone three houses down is burning leaves. It has happened enough times now that Long Islanders recognize it.
The fires are in Canada. Ontario mostly, sometimes the prairie provinces — a thousand miles and more from here, far enough that the smoke spends days in transit before it reaches us. And it reaches us anyway. It settles over Rockville Centre and Garden City and Long Beach. It gets into the lungs of kids at day camp in Merrick who have never heard the phrase “boreal forest.”
There is something clarifying about that, if you let it be.
We are accustomed to thinking of our lives as local, and with good reason. This newspaper exists because the things that shape a day here — the school calendar, the traffic on Sunrise Highway, whether the field will be playable Saturday morning — are decided close to home by people you might run into at the deli. That proximity is the texture of life in a place like ours. The distance between a thing and its cause is usually short enough to walk.
letters
Town supervisor candidate Scianablo deserves a serious look
To the Editor:
Barely a day goes by that I don’t receive at least one mailing from John Ferretti expounding on all of his successes as Town of Hempstead supervisor. He claims that he is hard at work for the people of the town. He claims to have lowered town taxes, that he is working to ensure that our water is safe to drink, and is working with Nassau County to protect religious institutions. Just because he makes these claims doesn’t mean they aren’t just alternative facts.
The truth is that since he became supervisor — with the questionable means by which he was made the incumbent for his election — town taxes have increased 12 percent, our
Smoke from a forest a thousand miles away is a different phenomenon. It did not come from anything anyone here did or failed to do. And at the end of that very long chain sits your daughter’s soccer practice.
Why more of it, and why now? Because the climate is warming and the northern forest is drying out as a result. Spring snowpack melts earlier than it used to. Summers run longer and hotter, and the peat and duff beneath the trees turn into something that holds fire the way a sponge holds water — slowly, deep down and for a very long time.
Fires that once burned themselves out now smolder underground through the winter and surface again in spring. More fire, more smoke. And the same atmospheric machinery that has always carried Canadian cold fronts down to the Northeast now carries the smoke with them.
The smoke isn’t doing anything unusual. It is riding the same currents that have brought us our weather since before there was a Long Island to bring it to — the northwest flow behind a front, the same air that gives us a crisp October morning and the frigid air of January. We have always been downwind of Canada. We simply had no occa-
sion to notice.
That’s what makes this worth sitting with. Not the fires themselves, but what they reveal about connection. Something we didn’t do, in a place most of us have never been, is now a feature of summer on Long Island.
And what we do continues downwind. The exhaust from the Meadowbrook, the fertilizer that leaves a lawn in Wantagh and ends up in the bay, the plume from a stack in Island Park — none of that stays put, either. Our runoff is someone else’s smoke.
There is a version of this line of thinking that curdles into helplessness, and we would steer away from it. Being connected to a place you cannot influence isn’t the same as being powerless. It is mostly an invitation to pay attention — to the bay, to the air, to the small local things that are, somewhere downwind, someone else’s inherited condition.
The sky has cleared — but it will haze over again. If not this summer, then next. And each time it does, it is worth taking a moment to notice the strangeness: that we are downwind of a forest we will likely never see, and that somewhere, someone we will never meet is downwind of us.
Donnie Kreiss, ‘I
carry your heart
with
me’
My husband, Donnie Kreiss, died on July 12, at home, just days after our 58th anniversary. He was 80, and had been living with pancreatic cancer since it was diagnosed in 2023.
Donnie did not go gently. As Dylan Thomas wrote, he raged against the dying of the light, from the moment he knew he had this relentless cancer until two Sundays ago, when he drew a quiet breath and then no more. Our son and daughter were with him.
My sister, Meryl Greenbaum, was with us. The loving good wishes of everyone he knew were with us.
He had been drifting away for the previous 10 days, suffering the side effects of three years of treatment. Still, in early June he was walking laps in our building, and in April the family had gathered for his birthday dinner. He pushed his athlete’s body beyond anyone’s expectation, and the night he died,
Letters
water rates are up 33 percent, and our energy rates continue to climb. Due to the lack of transparency, we have no idea where our hard-earned tax dollars are going or to whom.
I met Ferretti’s opponent, Joe Scianablo, for the first time when he attended a parlor meeting at my home. I was impressed not only with his background, but also his sincerity and his desire to continue serving the public. Scianablo has spent his entire adult life as a public servant. He served multiple deployments in the Marines in East Timor, Eritrea, and Iraq, then was a New York City police officer, focusing on domestic violence cases, in which helped victims find safety and justice. He is a former prosecutor in the Queens district attorney’s office, where he advocated for survivors of domestic violence.
I believed Scianablo when he said his focus would be to ensure that our tax dollars and resources benefit all the people in the Town of Hempstead, not just the favored ones. He isn’t a career politician, but will be a politician who has made a career of service. I encourage anyone who has the opportunity to meet him to do so. I think you will come away as impressed as I was.
CHERIE FEINBERG Lawrence
we rang the bell for him, because every single day he lived since 2023 was a tribute to his courage.
triumph over adversity.
HDonnie never felt sorry for himself. In his last days on earth he was reaching out to friends who had heartache, relationship woes, business setbacks or medical problems. He preached a gospel of positivity, insisting on finding threads of hope. He left a legacy of goodness and generosity, changing the lives of so many people along the way.
e always found the best in others because, truly, that was all he saw.
Donnie was a native Lawrencian. He was born in 1946 at Brooklyn Jewish Hospital to Lillian and Jack Kreiss, who lived at 16 Muriel Ave. in Lawrence. When he was 2, he contracted bacterial meningitis, which was usually fatal in those days. He was in isolation at St Joseph’s Hospital, in Far Rockaway, for two months. That was the first of his medical miracle recoveries, which included a fractured skull when he was 10, heart attacks at 40 and 50, bypass surgery, congestive heart failure and cervical spine surgery. He recited his near-misses enthusiastically, as if they were a resume, not of suffering but of
Donnie was a gifted athlete who ran track and played varsity football, basketball and golf. He was a beautiful man, and we fell hard in love as teenagers. We graduated together in 1964 from Lawrence High. When we married and settled in Woodmere, his second home was the Lawrence Golf Club, where his father was president and then, 50 years later, he was president. In recent years his home course was on Longboat Key, Fla., where last year he was named Most Inspirational Golfer of the Year, an award they created for him.
Don started his own business in 1969, selling slippers and bras and panties. He loved selling, and he was the best salesman because he could out-wait, out-talk and outlast any buyer he encountered.
He always found the best in others because, truly, that was all he saw. He drew on a deep well of generosity and kindness.
Our children, Jason, Rochelle, Jocelyn and Josh, were, as Auden said, his north, south, east and west. His grandchildren, Sabrina, Jacob, Elijah and
Emi, brought light and delight into his life. “Did you talk to the kids today?” was his mantra.
Despite his lifelong medical issues, Don was a rough and ready traveler, up for any adventure. We spent five summers exploring Montana when the kids were teenagers, and then for decades we traveled the world, from Komodo Island, in Indonesia, to the Alaska wilderness, from Bali to Singapore to Tasmania and New Zealand. Nothing stopped him.
Obituaries are the last public words written about someone. I never expected to write Donnie’s obituary, which I hope is more like telling the story of his life. Which is also the story of my life. As Cummings wrote, I carry his heart in my heart.
He trusted me to shepherd him through these last years, to get to the right doctors, to hold hands as we heard the diagnoses that limited his days. He wanted time, he said over and over again. I did my best, but time was not in my hands. I believe he would have wanted me to write this, the last words about him, from a place of love and longing, happy remembrance, and sadness that he did not have more days to grace our lives.
Copyright 2026 Randi Kreiss. Randi can be reached at randik3@aol.com.
FraMework
by Tim Baker
My Morning Jacket performed at the Great South Bay Music Festival, in Patchogue’s Shorefront Park, last Sunday.
