Looking for the ideal home this Fall? Whether you’re buying or selling, I’ll guide you through the process. September is the season of new beginnings. Make your move today!
Dever School cuts ribbon on Zen Den
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
James A. Dever Elementary School officially opened its new Zen Den Sept. 12 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the debut of a space designed for mindfulness, reflection and emotional well-being. The Zen Den grew out of ongoing conversations at the school about creating outdoor learning spaces.
“We’re here because we’ve been talking about outdoor classrooms for a long time,” said Principal Darren. “But then the impetus came when some of — when a lot of our teachers started talking about outdoor classrooms. Mr. Mullen (the school librarian) is always looking for an outdoor place for all of our children to read, and then that got to the board, then to the PTA, and
Rallying bipartisan support for feeding kids in V.S.
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
Legislation aimed at protecting free school meals for students was on the menu on Sept. 8 at Forest Road School, where Rep. Laura Gillen discussed the Feed Hungry Kids Act.
Roxanne Garcia-France, superintendent of Valley Stream District 30, and Gregory May, director of government and community relations for Island Harvest Food Bank, joined Gillen at the elementary school.
Gillen, a Democrat who represents a large swath of Nassau County, and Rep. David Valad -
ao, a Republican from California, introduced the bipartisan bill. The legislation would protect the Community Eligibility Provision, a federal program that allows underserved schools to offer breakfast and lunch to all students at no charge.
“As a mother of four children, it is painful for me to think of any child having to come to school hungry and spend the day hungry, yearning for something to eat,” Gillen said. “Every one of America’s students and children deserves a good education that sets them up for a successful life, regardless of their background or
TROxANNE G ARcIA-FRANcE Superintendent, Valley Stream District
their zip code. Students cannot, however, reach their full academic potential on an empty stomach.”
The provision states that if a certain percentage of students in a school qualify for assistance, then every student would
receive access to meals at no cost. The program also reduces paperwork for families and school districts to ease access to the program.
In 2023, the federal government lowered the participation threshold for the program from 40 percent to 25 percent, meaning that if a quarter of the students in a district qualify for
free school meals, then all students would benefit. The change made an additional 17,000 schools across the country eligible.
Gillen said that proposals have since emerged in Congress to reverse that change, and even raise the threshold as high as 60 percent, which
Angelina Zingariello/Herald
Students celebrated the grand opening of the Zen Den with a ribbon-cutting to officially welcome a new space for calm, creativity and mindfulness.
Alice Moreno/Herald photos
Volunteers from Meera Empowerment and Universal Interactions joined Nassau County Legislator Carrié Solages for the annual back-to-school backpack giveaway at Elmont Road Park on Aug. 30.
Sharing supplies and smiles at annual giveaway
By RENEE DELORENZO
rdelorenzo@liherald.com
Students of all ages from Elmont, Valley Stream and neighboring communities were given free backpacks and school supplies at an annual giveaway at Elmont Road Park, on Aug. 30.
The event, organized and sponsored by Nassau County Legislator Carrié Solages, brought together several community organizations including Meera Empowerment, the Gift of Giving Foundation, Universal Interactions, the Elmont Cultural Center and Valley Stream’s Green Acres Mall, all of which donated supplies.
Over 400 backpacks were donated, as well as supplies including pencils, erasers and notebooks. After the two-hour event concluded, about 50 backpacks were left over and handed to organizers from Universal Interactions, an Elmont nonprofit that organizes community events, to be donated to other organizations.
Savitre Ferdinand and her daughter, Selene, who founded Meera Empowerment five years ago, when Selene was just 8, said that this was their fourth year of collaboration with Solages and the other community organizers for the giveaway. Meera Empowerment is a nonprofit that empowers the youth in Elmont and surrounding commu-
nities through events and fundraisers.
“I was really happy with it,” Selene, who’s now 12, said. “It was a great turnout, and it made me feel really happy to see everyone with smiles on their faces as they got their bookbags.”
Savitre explained that Meera Empowerment and the other organizations previously hosted back-to-school giveaways separately before joining forces, pooling resources and hosting one large event at the end of the summer. “It just made sense to work as a team,” she said.
Using funds raised at other Meera Empowerment events during the year, such as its annual fashion show in July, the mother and daughter purchased nearly 100 backpacks and more than 200 notebooks.
Mimi Pierre-Johnson, founder of the Elmont Cultural Center, said that she and her daughter, Tamar Paoli-Bailey, coordinated with Solages for two weeks leading up to the event and donated water for the attendees. They also set up a table in the park and chatted with guests about future projects.
“What was so nice about it was that the community really came together,” PierreJohnson said. “You had parents hugging each other, asking how their summers were and talking about their kids going back to school.”
Universal Interactions co-founders Fenol LaRock and twin brothers Christiano and Antonio Marcello volunteered at the event, and donated more than 100 backpacks.
“The event was beautiful,” LaRock said. “A lot of kids were having fun, running around and dancing, and it was just vibrant.”
The activities included face painting, artwork, music and dancing, and there were drinks and snacks as well, LaRock said, all donated by the community organizers. Universal Interactions, he said, secured donations of supplies from local sponsors, and paid for some of it them of their own pockets.
LaRock, 23, a 2020 graduate of Elmont Memorial High School, said he had noticed the growing need for school supplies since he was a student. It was common, he recalled, for his classmates to ask for pens and pencils, which he was always willing to provide.
“Getting older now, I realize why it’s such a point to make sure kids are prepared for school,” he said. “I don’t want any kids left out. Our mission is to bring them together and make sure they’re prepared.”
pack.
Selene Ferdinand echoed LaRock’s sentiments, noting how many families are unable to afford school supplies. “Being able to help children in my community and others helps them achieve better future careers,” Selene said.
Pierre-Johnson said that events like the backpack giveaway ease some of the economic pressures families are facing, and help them save money they would otherwise spend on school supplies so they can buy food or clothes for their children.
“It’s very stressful, because you want to make your child happy,” she said. “You want them to start the school year on a positive note.”
Events like these, Pierre-Johnson continued, encourage neighbors to come together and discuss their needs as individuals and as a community.
According to Solages, the event is important to the community because of the affordability crisis on Long Island, which he said has worsened in the 13 years he has been in office. That’s why, he said, he organizes events like the backpack giveaway.
“It’s all about the children,” Solages said. “Seeing the joy and smiles on their face is just awesome.”
Christina Allen, 12, left, Miss Empire State, helped children choose backpacks during the giveaway at Elmont Road Park on Aug. 30.
Lea Bonvaleze, 9, with her new back-
Village holds annual 9/11 memorial to honor lives lost
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
Valley Stream gathered as a community to remember the victims, survivors and first responders of the 9/11 attacks. The annual ceremony served as a solemn occasion of mourning and reflection, while also expressing gratitude for the courage and sacrifice shown that day.
Held on Sept. 11 at 6 p.m., the program began with a call to order by Judge Robert G. Bogle, followed by the presentation of colors by American Legion Post 854 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1790.
Introductory remarks led into the Pledge of Allegiance, and the ceremony continued with the National Anthem, performed by Nicolette Bett, a Kellenberg Memorial High School senior and Valley Stream resident.
The invocation was offered by Father Daniel O’Brien, chaplain of the Valley Stream Fire Department. His words called for comfort for families still mourning, healing for those impacted by recovery efforts, and strength for future generations to carry forward the legacy of courage and service.
“As we gather here to remember and mourn the loss 24 years ago today of so many we loved dearly and lost tragically and unjustly,” O’Brien said. “We also gather with a profound sense of gratitude, grateful that we knew these men and women, even if they were taken from us much too soon.”
Reflections that followed emphasized the enduring significance of courage, sacrifice and devotion. Mayor Edwin Fare addressed the community, reminding all of the lasting emotional weight
of the tragedy and the importance of teaching its history to younger generations. He also emphasized the importance of unity amid division and expressed gratitude for the spirit of service and diversity within Valley Stream.
“Look at our brave uniformed firefighters and first responders, look at our young people, from the smallest Scout to the same young adults that came along after September 11, 2001,” Fare said.
“Look at each other, religious leaders, educators, public servants, citizens of every profession and from every cultural and ethnic background, the wonderful neighbors of our community. Each of you are special in your own way, committed to the ideals that we are here for each other.”
The program included the placing of three wreaths at the base of the monument, carried out by the fire department, local scouts and elected officials. Following this tribute, Bett returned to lead the singing of “God Bless America.”
Community leaders, veterans’ groups, clergy, educators and residents were recognized for their presence, reflecting the wide reach of the tragedy and the collective strength found in remembrance.
The closing benediction was led by Reverend Steven Milazzo of Bethlehem Assembly of God.
“Let us leave this place always remembering that life overcomes darkness, that love overcomes hatred and that truth overcomes deception,” Milazzo said.
The ceremony closed with a performance of “Amazing Grace” on the bagpipes as flowers were placed on the village’s memorial in honor of the fallen.
Christine Rivera/Herald photos
Local officials join scouts during the commemorative ceremony, honoring the lives lost and the bravery of first responders.
The memorial design features two towers representing the World Trade Center, a piece of steel beam from the WTC, a pentagon-shaped brass inlay and a marker honoring Flight 93, which crashed near Shanksville, Pennsylvania.
Protecting Your Future
“Protecting Your Future” has been Ettinger Law Firm’s motto since we began in 1991. These words have deep meaning to us and our clients. Following are eight ways an Ettinger Elder Law Estate Plan protects your future:
1. Makes sure your assets go to whom you want, when you want and the way you want. This can be all at once, at stated ages, managed by someone more responsible, leaving someone out and preventing them from challenging, protecting heirs from themselves, etc.
2. Takes a social approach to estate planning by fleshing out potential sources of conflict ahead of time and taking steps to prevent discord and preserve family harmony.
3. Protects our client’s home and other assets from the high costs of long-term care either at home (community care) or in a facility (institutional care) and renders our clients eligible for Medicaid benefits to pay for their long-term care.
4. Avoids time-consuming and expensive
court proceedings on disability (guardianship proceedings) and on death (probate court proceedings).
5. Reduces or eliminates New York estate taxes on estates over about seven million dollars using gifting strategies for single persons and, for couples, trust tax planning strategies setting up a trust for each spouse, allowing them to double the amount they can pass estate tax-free to their heirs.
6. Prevents assets you leave to your heirs from being lost to divorces, lawsuits and creditors and makes sure those assets pass by blood, instead of to in-laws and their families.
7. Provides a free review every three years to address changes in your health, your assets and your family so your plan works when you need it — not when you wrote it, perhaps decades earlier.
8. No charge for telephone calls and emails to the law firm so that your questions and concerns may be addressed as they arise, putting your mind at ease.
ETTINGER LAW FIRM
News brief
Breast cancer memorial walk set for Arthur J. Hendrickson Park
Community members are invited to participate in the annual Doctor Elsy Mecklembourg-Guibert Memorial Breast Cancer Walk/Run/Roll on Oct. 5, 3 to 5 p.m. at Arthur J. Hendrickson Park.
The day is being hosted by Nassau County Legislator Carrié Solages in partnership with Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages and the Adelphi NY Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline and Support Program.
The event coincides with Breast Cancer Awareness Month and provides an opportunity for participants to honor survivors, support those currently undergoing treatment, and remember those who have lost their lives to breast cancer.
“Dr. Elsy Mecklembourg-Guibert was an inspirational community leader who inspired so many people to step up, give back, and commit themselves to helping others,” Legis-
lator Solages said. “Her passion for promoting health and cancer awareness was unparalleled, and holding this event during Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a fitting tribute to her life’s work. Please join us as we raise awareness and support this life-saving mission.”
Mecklembourg-Guibert was a public health educator and advocate in Nassau County, dedicated to improving health literacy and access to care. She founded a nonprofit organization to provide resources and played a key role in raising awareness about breast cancer, emphasizing early detection and prevention. The occasion brings the community together to raise awareness about breast cancer while promoting solidarity, support and remembrance for those affected by the disease.
— Angelina Zingariello
622-7460
■ DISPlAY ADVERTISING: Ext. 249 E-mail: rglickman@liherald.com Fax: (516) 569-4643
■ PUBlIC NOTICES: Ext. 232 E-mail: legalnotices@liherald.com
Photo courtesy Office of Legislator Carrié Solages
JAYDEN MOYA
MALVERNE Senior SOCCER
IT’S IMPOSSIBLE TO tell Malverne/East Rockaway’s boys’ soccer team is coming off a winless 2024 campaign. To say the Rockin’ Mules have enjoyed an incredible start would be an understatement. Moya has been front and center of a club with four wins in its first five matches. He leads Nassau County in goals with 12 and has three or more games with at least a hat trick. He scored 5 times in wins over Valley Stream South and Clarke.
GAMES TO WATCH
Friday, Sept. 19
Girls Soccer: Manhasset at Carey 3 p.m.
Girls Soccer: Mepham at Calhoun 5 p.m.
Girls Soccer: South Side at Oceanside 5 p.m.
Football: Farmingdale at Oceanside 6 p.m.
Football: South Side at Division 6 p.m.
Football: New Hyde Park at East Meadow 6:30 p.m.
Girls Volleyball: Freeport at Baldwin 6:45 p.m.
Football: Long Beach at Glen Cove 7 p.m.
Football: Plainedge at C.S. Harbor 7 p.m.
Football: Lynbrook at Carle Place 7:15 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 20
Football: Floral Park at Carey 11:00 a.m.
Boys Soccer: Lynbrook at Plainedge 12 p.m.
Football: Wantagh at Elmont 12:30 p.m.
Football: V.S. North at Hewlett 1 p.m.
Football: Baldwin at Garden City 2 p.m.
Football: Roosevelt at Calhoun 2 p.m.
Football: Lawrence at East Rockaway 2 p.m.
Football: Roslyn at Kennedy 2 p.m.
Football: West Hempstead at Malverne 2 p.m.
Football: Sewanhaka at V.S. South 2 p.m.
Football: MacArthur at Mepham 3 p.m.
Football: Port Washington at Freeport 3 p.m.
Nominate a “Spotlight Athlete”
High School athletes to be featured on the Herald sports page must compete in a fall sport and have earned an AllConference award or higher last season. Please send the following information: Name, School, Grade, Sport and accomplishments to Sports@liherald.com.
V.S. South rolls with the punches
By MICHELLE RABINOVICH sports@liherald.com
Valley Stream South’s girls soccer team is coming off an arduous week: three games across between Sept. 9-12; a 4-1 loss to Oyster Bay, followed by taking home the first win of the season in a 3-0 shutout over Lawrence Sept. 11, before concluding with an 4-1 loss to West Hempstead.
Falcons coach Tara Brady isn’t concerned about it.
“We’re kind of off to a rough start, we’re 1-3 right now, so the message that I want to get across to the girls each game lost is that losses are tough but they don’t define us,” Brady said. “We treat each day as a fresh chance to grow and prove and come back stronger, so that’s out mentality at the moment. I appreciate the girls’ heart and hustle and fight until the final whistle, so that is the character of the team.”
Spirits are still high, and for good reason, according to Brady, based on what went right for the team on the 3-0 win.
“That was a hat trick by Nina Munafo, that was definitely a high school career milestone for Nina,” Brady said. “She’s a hard worker, she’s one of our captains this year, she’s a junior, well-earned and well deserved for her.”
Brady also said Munafo is a figure that younger or newer players look up to for leadership, as someone who is able to give and take constructive criticism while also bringing uplifting spirits to the team, no matter the circumstances.
There’s young and promising talent that Brady sees in eighth-grader Amina Ba.
“She is so open to listening to her teammates, overall she’s a great player on her own but she’s open to the mentoring of the more experienced players and she’s doing a great job of learning the pace of varsity soccer,” Brady said.
With sophomore Samantha Pellman added to the midfield, Munafo, Ba and Pellman all combine for an intense unit that Brady said she has high expectations for.
There’s also senior captains Jessica Dyer and Isabella Rush. “They’re always
the ones that keep that positivity as well, so the captains are who the girls look up to for that support,” Brady said.
The goalkeeper, freshman Saba Mir, was also a contributing factor to the team’s win with her pair of saves, and will continually be vital in future games.
“That’s what I talk about when I talk about that character of the girls in our team, you probably wouldn’t even know how old she is just because of the way how she carries herself, she carries herself with grace,” Brady said. “She was new to goal actually because she started there as an eighth grader, so she hasn’t
Nina Munafo, right, scored all three goals for the Falcons in their first win of 2025, 3-0 over Lawrence Sept. 11.
Grace Hughes/Herald
been in this position for too long. The improvement from last year to now, I’m very proud of her.”
Brady, a former defender throughout her high school and collegiate careers, keeps a watchful eye on her defensive unit though.
“Chinelo Obichere, a junior, I do have high expectations for her in the back line. She’s a very strong defender, and the mentality of ‘defense wins championships’ [is present], so for Chinelo I really have high expectations for her,” the coach said.
Next up is a trip to Locust Valley Thursday for a 5 p.m. start.
IDF soldier presents his story
Temple Hillel invited IDF soldier Amit Bar to share the story of how he lost his right leg from the knee down, on Sept. 13. He showed his presentation titled “The One Legged Show” and explained the events of Oct. 7, 2023.
Finding peace in turbulent times through faith and hope
By Rabbi Steven Graber Temple Hillel
There’s an old phrase, that say’s “May you live in interesting times.” The phrase is not a blessing. To this we can attest, for we are certainly living in interesting times. Daily, we are confronted with divided politics and social unrest. Every day we read about war and the threat of new wars. Traditional news sources and social media turn every issue into high drama.
In years gone by, we could turn off the TV and fold the newspaper to avoid some of the disturbing issues, which drift around our lives. With phones buzzing in our pockets to announce the latest news, the negatives of life are harder to ignore. In such a quick moving, complicated world, how does one create a sense of balance... of grounding... of inner peace?
because we have a Common Father. In God’s House, it is our inner, spiritual world is emphasized, over the material world. In God’s house the issues of the day find perspective amongst eternal issues. Perhaps that is why so many studies have reported that people who are involved in their house of worship have more friendships and longer lives. The Psalmist said, “Happy are they that sit in God’s house.” The advice is 3000 years old and still holds true.
The Jewish High Holy Days begin Sunday evening, September 9th. It’s time to prepare to for our futures. It is time to return to our best selves by returning to God. It’s time to regain our balance, recoup our strength and begin our next life-chapters. Let the synagogue help you with your transformation. When life seems difficult, when you find yourself living in interesting times, remember that God’s house is there, offering you acceptance, spiritual strength, direction, perspective and joy. I wish you a happy and healthy New Year.
—
Melissa Berman
The event was for their Slichot (forgiveness) service and brought the community together. In attendance were temple leadership members Tracey Drayer, Dr. Ira Klonsky and Allan Greene. Along with Rabbi Steven Graber, his wife Dr. Linda Graber and temple members.
A good way to start is by entering God’s house. Your local house of worship is a place where goodness, morality, family and community are promoted. It is a place where equality is endorsed
Rabbi Steven Graber, Temple Hillel
Melissa Baptiste/Herald
Dr. Linda Friedman Graber, left, Rabbi Steven Graber, Temple Hillel, Tracey Drayer, Dr Ira Klonsky and Allan Greene attended the Slichot IDF soldier Amit Bar’s presentation.
With new Time-of-Day Rates, 3 PM to 7 PM is now “me time.” By doing chores that use a lot of electricity before or after those hours on weekdays, you take advantage of the times when energy costs less to produce. So, think laundry at 12 PM. Read a book or catch up on emails at 4 PM. Dishes at 8 PM. It’s all about timing your savings and saving your time. Some of the appliances that use the most energy are shown below. For
Learn more. Scan the QR code or go to psegliny.com/timeofday.
Local composer celebrates book release
By WILL SHEELINE wsheeline@liherald.com
Valley Stream composer Leonard J. Lehrman brought a local spotlight to Theodore’s Books in Oyster Bay with a unique live concert event.
Lehrman, presented his new memoir, “Continuator – The Autobiography of a Socially-Conscious Cosmopolitan.”
That’s the major reason we’re here tonight, to celebrate Theodore’s Books and bring music back to you.
LEoNard J. LEHrmaN composer
The book signing featured a performance by Lehrman alongside his wife, soprano Helene Williams, and soprano Samantha Long, who will star in an upcoming performance of Lehrman’s opera “EG” based on the autobiography of Russianborn author and political activist Emma Goldman, blending music and memoir in front of an attentive audience. Lehrman was introduced as “the most prolific composer living on Long Island today, with 272 works, including 12 operas, seven musicals, 100 translations and over 300 individual songs.” Lehrman reflected on his life’s path during the talk, citing his late mentor Elie Siegmeister, whom he called “historically Long Island’s most prolific composer ever,” as a profound influence.
“On his deathbed, Elie said to me, ‘When I die, I know if I leave something unfinished, he’ll finish it,’” Lehrman recalled. “’I don’t want to call you my disciple, because I don’t believe in doctrine, but you’re my continuator,’ hence the title of my book.”
The composer also spoke about his early training with Nadia Boulanger in Paris, his work completing an unfinished opera by Marc Blitzstein, and the encouragement he received from Leonard Bernstein, who recommended him to the Metropolitan Opera. He described how his career eventually led him to librarianship, following his mother’s advice after facing barriers in academia.
“I got a second master’s in library science, shortly after which I was hired here in Oyster Bay,” he said, “and I’m still here 30 years later.”
Lehrman highlighted many past concerts he has organized in Oyster Bay, from performances honoring Theodore Roosevelt’s grandson J. Willard Roosevelt to celebrations of Bernstein. He lamented that recent efforts to revive concerts at the library have struggled, leading to an unofficial moratorium on live concerts there.
“We are hoping that all of you and your friends expressing your love of music by being here can help working to change that,” Lehrman added.
J. Lehrman, center, performed alongside
in Lehrman’s opera ‘EG’ later this year and next
Leonard J. Lerhman’s book ‘Continuator –The Autobiography of a SociallyConscious Cosmopolitan,’ follows his life and the many composers he has met.
“That’s the major reason we’re here tonight, to celebrate Theodore’s Books and bring music back to you in Oyster Bay.”
The evening closed with performances of Lehrman’s compositions, including music from his musical portrait of anarchist Emma Goldman. Following a Q&A portion, Lehrman signed copies of Continuator and urged attendees to help bring live music back to public spaces.
songs from numerous pieces he had either written or finished writing for other composers.
Music lovers of all ages visited Theodore’s Books to hear Lehrman perform and get a copy of his new memoir.
Will Sheeline/Herald photos
Leonard
two sopranos; his wife Helene Williams, left, and Samantha Long, who will star
year.
Leonard J. Lehrman, right, and his wife Helene Williams performed several
A look at three key upcoming events honoring the village’s centennial milestone
Valley Stream is turning 100, marking a century of growth from a small rural community to a suburban village. The village is hosting a series of centennial events that highlight its rich history, civic institutions and community spirit.
—
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO
n Centennial Parade
Valley Stream’s Centennial Parade will take place on Sept. 27, with a rain date scheduled for Sept. 28. The parade will step off at 4 p.m., following the familiar Memorial Day Parade route along Rockaway Parkway and West Valley Stream Boulevard, and will conclude at the Village Green Lawn on Verona Place.
Local schools, civic organizations, community groups, and residents are expected to participate, presenting a vibrant display of floats, banners, marching bands and performances that reflect the history, achievements and spirit of Valley Stream over the past century.
Guests can enjoy displays, historical reenactments and creative presentations from each group, offering a unique glimpse into the village’s rich past and ongoing contributions to the region.
n Community Block Party
Immediately following the parade, the Village Green will host a Community Block Party starting at 5:30 p.m. and continuing until 9:00 p.m.
Guests can expect music performances across multiple stages, food trucks offering diverse dishes, local artisans and vendors, a laser show, games and attractions designed for all ages.
Families can enjoy interactive activities for children, demonstrations from civic organizations and performances showcasing local talent, while neighbors gather to socialize and celebrate the village’s achievements.
The block party highlights the close-knit character of Valley Stream, encouraging residents to engage with one another, support local businesses and participate in cultural displays that honor the community’s past and present.
n 3. History of the Valley Stream Fire Department
Richard Sullivan, former Chief of the Valley Stream Fire Department, will present a lecture on the history of the department at the Village Hall Auditorium.
On Oct. 15, at 7:30 p.m., Sullivan will recount the origins and evolution of one of the village’s most vital civic institutions, tracing its development from its founding to its current operations.
The lecture will highlight the dedication, bravery and service of generations of firefighters who have protected the community throughout the village’s 100-year history.
Attendees can expect firsthand stories, historical anecdotes, and insights into the department’s role during major events, emergencies and periods of growth in Valley Stream.
OPEN HOUSE
First L.I. Heroes breakfast set for Oct. 22
Hosted by American Red Cross on Long Island at Farmingdale’s Heritage Club at Bethpage
By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN agriffin@liherald.com
A celebration of Long Island heroes is back — with a twist. On Oct. 22, the annual event hosted by the American Red Cross on Long Island will take place in the morning: The inaugural two-hour breakfast will be held at the Heritage Club at Bethpage, in Farmingdale, at 8 a.m.
And after years of having three or so honorees, the Red Cross will honor six heroes in categories including Community Impact Hero, First Responder Hero, Global Citizenship Hero, Disaster Hero and Military Hero. “This was just brought to our attention by our wonderful board and volunteers saying, ‘There are a lot more people that deserve some recognition,’” the organization’s CEO, Jose Dominguez, said.
Luv Michael is the Community Impact Hero honoree this year. Founded in 2015, Luv Michael is a nonprofit created by Michael Kessaris and his parents, Dr. Dimitri Kessaris and Dr. Lisa Liberatore, which is dedicated to producing meaningful work and independent living opportunities for young adults on the autism spectrum.
This year’s First Responder Heroes are Officers Timothy Deegan and Matthew Walling. These graduates of the
Nassau County Police Academy demonstrated exceptional bravery on Jan. 5, when they responded to an off-duty crash involving a fellow officer, and swiftly provided lifesaving care while awaiting EMS.
Dr. Tochi Iroku-Malize is the Global Citizenship Hero being honored. The president of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the founding chair of the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Iroku-Malize dedicated her career
to expanding accessibility to family medicine and shaping a more inclusive future for health care.
The Disaster Hero of the year is Jennifer Keane. When a referee collapsed mid-game, Keane quickly prepared an automated external defibrillator and made a lifesaving intervention. As an athletic director and a certified athletic trainer, she had the ability to stay in control under pressure.
Mel Cohen is this year’s Military Hero honoree. A U.S. Air Force veteran
and a retired Suffolk County police officer, Cohen has spent his life serving the community in honor of his brother Gerald, who died in Vietnam. He supports veterans across New York state, as well as Gold Star families, while staying active in various organizations including Vietnam Veterans of America and Wreaths Across America.
Along with the six honorees, two teens will be honored as Youth Heroes. Charlie Dubofsky and Sydney Hassenbein founded the HERO Project, a peersupport group for grieving students, after both experienced personal losses. The group allows middle and high school students to experience and share their grief in a safe space.
Active on Long Island for over 100 years, the American Red Cross on Long Island continues to serve the area and recognize its local heroes. “The mission of the Red Cross is to alleviate human suffering in so many different categories,” Dominguez said. “It is possible through the generosity of our donors and the time of our volunteers.”
All proceeds raised during the fundraiser will allow the Red Cross to continue its mission of helping those affected by disasters like hurricanes, fires and other crises. For more information on the organization and on attending the event, visit RedCross.org/LIHeroes.
Courtesy American Red Cross on Long Island
The 2024 L.I. Celebration honorees, from left, Anthony Lagos, Jon Ledecky and Kevin J. Losse, at the gala.
Ribbon-cutting marks Zen Den opening
then they just ran with it.”
The ceremony began with Gruen welcoming attendees and introducing key participants. Present were Board of Education President Anthony Grosso, Trustee Sarah Sabatino, Superintendent Judith LaRocca and Assistant Superintendent for Business and Operations Gary Gentles. Also in attendance were PTA members, teachers, social workers, and school staff.
The ceremony included a guided meditation by Kim Pierson. Students and staff participated in breathing exercises and visualization, focusing on intentions such as peace, calm and joy, reflecting the values the Zen Den is designed to support. The meditation concluded with a gesture of gratitude to the teachers, PTA and administrators who helped make the space possible.
The Zen Den is a quiet, enclosed outdoor retreat designed to provide a natural, calming environment for mindfulness and reflection. The space is framed by arborvitae trees, creating a sense of privacy and tranquility. Within the area, benches, sitting stones and tree stumps offer flexible seating options, allowing students to gather, read or practice mindfulness in small groups.
“I actually, really hope that my teacher uses it,” sixth-grade student Angelina Fasulo said. “So, then we could do some
Angelina Zingariello/Herald
The newly completed Zen Den at James A. Dever Elementary features benches, sitting stones, and tree stumps surrounded by arborvitae trees.
lessons in here, and we could read, and if we start a book, hopefully we could read some in here. It’s better outside, you can see all the birds, the nature — it’s fresh air. You don’t have to be in the classroom.”
The transformation of the space involved careful landscaping to integrate the elements into the natural surroundings, resulting in a serene and inviting environment. The combination of greenery, open area and thoughtfully placed seating creates a balanced outdoor classroom. Though its design is
intended for year-round use, the Zen Den is especially suited to the warmer months, when the outdoor setting can be fully enjoyed.
PTA Co-President Desiree Fasulo, who attended Dever as a student, helped guide the project from its early planning stages through to completion.
“As a Reiki Master, I believe deeply in the power of mindfulness and positive energy, which I call magic, the Dever Zen Den is more than just a space,” Fasulo said. “It’s a place of peace, magic, and renewal. Here, our children can reset, our staff can find calm, and our community can be reminded that emotional well-being is just as important as academics.
“Today, as we cut the ribbon, we celebrate not just the new space, but the magic of what happens when vision, persistence and community come together,” she added. “Now, I would love for us all to cut the ribbon, begin our journey of mindfulness and magic together.”
The ribbon-cutting included celebratory bubbles blown by students to mark the official opening. Students recited a mindfulness pledge emphasizing bravery, focus and personal growth. Gruen formally declared the Zen Den open for all classes and recognized the contributions of PTA members, teachers, school staff, and district administrators.
ConTinuED
Memorial Junior High student wins bronze in student art competition
Valley Stream Memorial Junior High School eighth grader Afrin Ahmed has earned a Bronze Level Award in the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Nassau County’s annual Student Art Competition.
The competition is designed to engage students across Nassau County in creative activities connected to gardening, agriculture and the environment. It encourages participants to explore these themes through artistic expression while learning about horticulture, sustainability and community gardening.
Winning entries are recognized for their creativity and relevance to these educational topics, and the program provides students the opportunity to share their work with the broader community.
• In-depth coverage of local schools
• Award-winning sports coverage
• Things to do and places to go
• The best in local shopping and dining
• Coverage of local government
• News about your PTAs, houses of worship, clubs, fraternal organizations & more.
Afrin’s artwork was selected from a competitive field of entries and will be featured in the 2026 Cornell Cooperative Extension Nassau Gardening Calendar and Guide. The publication provides home gardeners throughout the county with research-based advice and best practices for growing plants and maintaining gardens.
In addition to appearing in the calendar, Afrin’s work will be displayed at the organization’s headquarters in Eisenhower Park. She will also be honored at a reception for all winners in October,
Photo courtesy Valley Stream Central High School District Afrin Ahmed, an eighth grader at Memorial Junior High School, with her award-winning artwork selected for the 2026 Nassau Gardening Calendar and Guide.
where she will receive a certificate of accomplishment and a complimentary copy of the calendar.
— Angelina Zingariello
New bill would preserve free school meals
mind and body.
would significantly reduce access to free meals. The Feed Hungry Kids Act would maintain the 25 percent threshold, ensuring that schools do not lose eligibility.
The bill has received support from both Island Harvest and Long Island Cares, two of the region’s largest food banks. Gillen said the bipartisan support for the legislation reflects the shared priority to ensure that children are fed.
Valley Stream schools first benefited from the provision two years ago, when the district expanded access to the program so that all students could receive free breakfast and lunch.
This important bill is going to help make sure that our kids are fed.
GreGory May Director of government and community relations, Island Harvest Food Bank
“Here, in the Valley Stream 30, the friendly schools, we’re about educating and inspiring and celebrating our students as global leaders of tomorrow,” GarciaFrance said. “The Feed Hungry Kids Act strengthens that mission. It ensures that every child has daily access to healthy, nutritious meals at schools, raising nutrition standards and giving families confidence that their children are receiving food that fuels both their
“This act also supports students’ well-being and healthy growth, helping to combat childhood obesity, which affects nearly one in five young people nationwide,” she continued. “By providing access to healthier options at school, we are teaching lifelong habits that ripple into the home. Families can reinvest the money that they save on school meals into healthier food choices, deepening the partnership between home and school. The friendly school believes no child should walk through (the) doors hungry. The Feed Hungry Kids Act fuels more than meals — it fuels futures, empowering every student to thrive academically and maintain physical wellbeing through access to nutritional meals.”
May placed the discussion within the broader context of food access on Long Island, noting that September is Hunger Action Month, and Sept. 9 was Hunger Action Day.
“This bill will protect that and ensure that every kid in New York State is able to receive free breakfast and lunch at school during the school year,”
Roxanne Garcia-France, Valley Stream District 30 superintendent, highlighted the district’s experience with the Community Eligibility Provision, a federal program that allows schools to provide free breakfast and lunch to students.
May said. “More than 240,000 Long Islanders are facing food insecurity, and this important bill is going to help make sure that our kids are fed.”
If the bill fails, Gillen said schools and families would once again be subject to partisan budget debates, creating uncertainty over whether children would consistently have access to food during the school day. She emphasized that the legislation is designed to provide steady funding and stability so that schools can continue to feed students without disruption.
Angelina Zingariello/Herald
News brief
Ryder Cup Youth Day is Sept. 25
The PGA of America will host Youth Day at the 2025 Ryder Cup on Sept. 25, at Bethpage Black, furthering its commitment to helping the game grow through PGA Jr. League and local youth initiatives.
PGA Jr. League players from the Metropolitan PGA Section and local high school students are invited to attend free of charge with a ticketed adult. Youth Day provides access to Ryder Cup practice rounds and the decisive Junior Ryder Cup singles matches, featuring the top 24 junior golfers from the U.S. and Europe.
Jeffrey Bessen/Herald Youth Day at the 2025 Ryder Cup is on Sept. 25. Above, volunteers Sara Blau and Andres Diez picked up their uniforms last month.
The Junior Ryder Cup, established in 1997, has launched the careers of some of golf’s biggest stars, including Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, Scottie Scheffler, Lexi Thompson, Rose Zhang and Rory McIlroy.
A select group of participants will also take part in Beyond the Green, a career exploration program led by the PGA of America REACH Foundation. The event will feature New York-based sports organizations and brands, with youth representatives from groups such as First Tee of Metropolitan New York, The Bridge Golf Foundation and 100 Black Men of New York. Youth Day attendees will also be invited to the Ryder Cup opening ceremony that evening.
As part of the PGA’s mission to
increase inclusion and participation, juniors ages 15 and under receive free admission on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of Ryder Cup week with a ticketed adult (limit two juniors per adult). Tickets for juniors are available only at the Main Spectator Entrance on the day of play.
Additionally, PGA Jr. League Day at Ryder Cup Live will take place on Sept. 27, at Rockefeller Center. Players wearing their PGA Jr. League jerseys will enjoy a watch party, simulator competition, activities, prizes and raffles. For more, go to Bit.ly/3VaI8EN.
For more information, visit RyderCup.com.
–Jeffrey Bessen
STEPPING OUT
‘Love’ is all around us
Photos from the streets on view at Hofstra Museum
By Abbey Salvemini
Hofstra University Museum of Art opens its gallery to “Love Is The Message: Photography by Jamel Shabazz,” an inspiring exhibition honoring the decades-long creative output of the renowned street photographer. With his keen eye, Shabazz’s powerful images reflect pop culture, fashion and especially hip-hop, spanning the 1980s through today. The exhibit is on view in the Emily Lowe Gallery though Dec. 16.
Shabazzz’s striking black-and-white and color photography radiates joy and human connection, offering a deep sense of empathy and cultural pride. Alongside his photographs, visitors can also explore his personal collection of cameras, artwork and memorabilia.
“Jamel Shabazz is history, and it is a real gift that we are able to share this with our community,” Museum Director Sasha Giordano says.
As Giordano puts it, so thoroughly articulated in her forward in the exhibition catalogue: “Community is the heart of a museum.”
The exhibit was conceived with this spirit and curated by “Team Love,” a collective partnership composed of Shabazz; Robert Dupreme Eatman; Dr. Bilal Polson, principal of Northern Parkway School in Uniondale, Erik Sumner, art educator at Northern Parkway School; and the Hofstra University Museum of Art. Over two years, slowly and carefully, through meeting after meeting, the exhibition took shape from concept to fruition.
With Team Love’s valuable insights, “Love Is The Message”honors 50 years of Jamel Shabazz’s artistic achievement and is his first solo exhibition on Long Island — a fitting location as he is a longtime resident of Hempstead.
“Love Is the Message” explores how Shabazz’s work occupies a vital space at the intersection of art, activism and cultural storytelling. Deeply influenced by trailblazers like Gordon Parks, Shabazz embraces the camera not just as a creative tool, but as a means of witnessing everyday life within Black and Brown communities. Shabazz centers dignity, resilience, and beauty in his portraits by capturing not only how his subjects look, but how they live and love. His lens is one of empathy, inviting viewers not simply to observe but to feel and to witness the quiet strength of a
father holding his child, the joy in a group of friends dressed for a block party, or the pride in a young person striking a confident pose. In this way, Shabazz’s work does more than document; it cultivates understanding, mends division and illuminates the shared humanity that connects us all.
“Jamel wanted the team to put fourth an exhibition that showed love of community, friends, family and music,” Giordano explains.
As for Shabazz, he considers this retrospective a significant honor.
“When I look at the current situation of the country and the world, this exhibition is one of the most important shows of my life because we need love in the world right now,” he says. “I’m sharing my work to help inspire the next generation by using this universal global language of photography to create conversation.”
• Now through Dec. 16
• Programs require advance registration; call (516) 463-5672 to register
• Emily Lowe Gallery, behind Emily Lowe Hall, Hofstra University’s South Campus, Hempstead
Shabazz commutes to his day job daily but returns to his Hempstead studio, where he immerses himself in reflection and creativity.
“The Town of Hempstead offers me a space where I can get into deep thought and develop my ideas,” he says.
Among the many photographs and artifacts on view, Shabazz shares that a photograph of his mother holds especially deep meaning for him. Entitled “‘The Giver of Life,’ it’s the work of which he is most proud.
“I went out to Jones Beach with my mother and I caught an incredible photograph of her with bread in her hand as the seagull approaches her. She’s never experienced anything like that before.”
Beyond that moment, his eye offers his special perspective on the world around us.
“My objective was to contribute to the preservation of culture for this generation. It is my hope that the younger generations can look at my work and get a glimpse of the style and culture of back in the day. I want young people to understand the importance of love and see the power of photography,” he adds.
As always, related programming enhances the viewing experience. Upcoming on Oct. 1, 6-7:30 p.m., join Giordano for an exhibition tour. She’ll discuss the community collaboration that shaped the exhibit, offering insight into the artist’s creative process and the legacy of love reflected in the work.
Meet the man behind the camera at “Love Is the Message: A Conversation with Jamel Shabazz,” on Oct. 23, 10 a.m.-noon. He’ll talk about his creative process, personal influence and the impact of his work documenting everyday life in Black and urban communities. It’s followed by an audience Q&A session.
The events schedule also includes “Feel the Love – Experience the Photography of Jamel Shabazz with a Heart Meditation,” on Nov. 6. Denise Peterson, of Denise Peterson Yoga, brings mindfulness and meditation techniques to the art experience.
NYC Ska Orchestra
The NYC Ska Orchestra blends the exuberant musical layers of the jazz era with Jamaican roots music. The top-notch musicians, led by arranger-trumpeter-vocalist Kevin Batchelor, deliver a lively concert that surely will lead you to want to get up out of your seat and dance. This 20-piece big band features star turns from celebrated octogenarian percussionist/vocalist Larry McDonald and master drummer Carl Wright. Alongside a powerhouse collective of instrumental artists from the reggae recording scene, band members have performed with Peter Tosh, Bob Marley, Lee “Scratch” Perry, Toots & the Maytals. Together they play a non-stop selection of lush original compositions and arrangements of songs from the richly historic and culturally iconic Jamaican musical styles of 1950s and ’60s ska, mento, rocksteady and jazz.
Friday, Sept 26. 8 p.m. $42, $37 members. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.
Soulful notes with Vincent Ingala
Contemporary jazz saxophonist/ multi-instrumentalist Vincent Ingala and his electrifying band bring their funky grooves to the Madison Theatre. Declared by Jazziz Magazine as “one of the most exciting artists to emerge this past decade,” Ingala remains an unstoppable, creative force in urban contemporary jazz. His career includes10 #1 Billboard hits, 23 Top 10 singles, with more to come from his latest release and eighth album, “Escape With Me.” Ingala’s unique dual ability to electrify fans while connecting emotionally with them has made him one of the genre’s most popular talents on the scene today. He draws the audience in; becoming part of an exciting musical experience that bridges the gap between the music of his father’s R&B, funk and soul collection ( which he was heavily immersed in) and Ingala’s well executed horn lines.
Saturday, Sept. 20, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $45. Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. Tickets available at madisontheatreny. org or (516) 323-4444.
Photos courtesy Jamal Shabazz and Hofstra University Musem of Art
A Time of Innocence Series, Flatbush, Brooklyn, 1981
The Giver of Life, Jones Beach, 2005 Youth and Age, Hempstead, Undated
Church Ladies, Harlem, 1997
YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CALENDAR
SEPT 18
On Exhibit
Nassau County Museum of Art’s latest exhibition, “At Play,” surveys artists’ perennial fascination with entertainment in all forms. Framing this topic between the nineteenth century Belle Époque and today, the exhibit includes works by Pablo Picasso, Reginald Marsh, Everett Shinn, and Max Beckmann among many others. The works are gathered to represent a wide range of expressions, from entertainmentrelated activities to the fascinating personalities involved. It encompasses dance, music, theater, movies, circus, boating, and beach scenes, along with horseracing and various sports, both active and passive Also featured are archival items from The Metropolitan Opera and the New York Philharmonic, including costumes by Marc Chagall for Die Zauberflöte, vintage fashion items by such designers as Alfred Shaheen, and iconic costumes from the Folies-Bergère in Paris. On view until Nov. 9.
• Where: 1 Museum Drive, Roslyn Harbor
• Time: Ongoing
• Contact: nassaumuseum.org or (516) 484-9337
SEPT
19
Parti-gras at the park
Poison frontman Bret Michaels and former Eagles member Don Felder bring their spirited concert to Eisenhower Park. Rock on to fan favorite tunes.
• Where: Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre, East Meadow
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: nassaucountyny.gov
SEPT
20
Gatsby’s Swingin’ Scavenger Hunt
Old Westbury Garden’s Gatsby Weekend celebration the 100th anniversary of “The Great Gatsby,” continues with a family adventure. The jazz artists are late for Gatsby’s big bash and lost in the gardens! Hunt for jazz players hidden in the landscape. Check off your findings then and return to Westbury House for a special prize.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
Gatsby in the Gardens: Art Deco Perspectives
Experience the glamour and bold
‘…We will rock you’
Get ready to sing along — Queen-mania is back on Long Island. Almost Queen, the acclaimed tribute band, is set to return to the Paramount stage, bringing with them the soaring vocals, electrifying guitar riffs, and theatrical flair that defined one of rock’s most legendary groups. Almost Queen isn’t just another cover band. Their performances are carefully crafted to honor the spirit of Freddie Mercury, Brian May, John Deacon, and Roger Taylor while delivering a concert experience that feels fresh and alive. The lineup features Joseph Russo as the dynamic and charismatic Mercury, Steve Leonard as guitar virtuoso May, Randy Gregg as bassist Deacon, and John Cappadona as drummer Taylor. Together, they recreate Queen’s iconic sound with impeccable four-part harmonies, precise musical interludes, and the kind of stage energy that pulls audiences to their feet. Attention to detail sets the band apart. From authentic costumes to faithful renditions of classic hits like “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We Will Rock You,” and “Somebody to Love,” the band captures both the power and the playfulness of Queen’s original shows. Their devotion to accuracy — paired with undeniable chemistry on stage — has earned them a loyal following that grows with every tour. $108.75, $98.25, $76.25, $64.75, $54.25, $48.75.
design of the Roaring Twenties through contemporary artwork inspired by the opulence of Long Island’s Gold Coast. This juried exhibition at Light Court Hallway celebrates the era’s iconic fashion, architectureand luxury in true Art Deco style.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
Block Party With Imagination Playground
Get the kids ready to join in an oversized “block” party at Long Island Children’s Museum! Stack them, crawl through them or team up to make dream designs come true. Back by popular demand these giant, lightweight blocks turn playtime into extraordinary adventures. Construct castles, mazes, fantastical creatures or secret hideaways in this incredible exhibit experience. Imagination Playground blue blocks provide a blank canvas for children to express their creativity and bring their ideas to life. Giant and lightweight, these blocks encourage hands-on exploration and problem-
solving, collaboration and spatial awareness. Through Nov. 2.
• Where: Museum Row, Garden City
• Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800
Fiber Crafters Meet-up
Henry Waldinger Memorial Library hosts an afternoon for knitters, crocheters, needleworkers, rug hookers, and more to work on projects in good company.
• Where: 60 Verona Place
• Time: 2-3:30 p.m.
• Contact: valleystreamlibrary.org or (516) 825-6422
Foxtrot Like Gatsby
You can dance like Daisy and Gatsby! Join dance historian and teacher Susan de Guardiola at Old Westbury Gardens to learn to dance a simple 1920s-style foxtrot — the lively original foxtrot as it was danced before modern ballroom style! This beginner-friendly class will teach you a simple 1920s-style foxtrot interspersed with a lighthearted history of the early days of the foxtrot. No partner is needed and no experience is necessary!
• Where: Barn at Orchard Hill, 71 Old Westbury Road,
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 11 a.m.-noon
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048 or (516) 825-6422
SEPT
Little Learners Art Lab
Each week in this engaging workshop, participants are introduced to hands-on materials, artmaking, and inspiration from artists and techniques. Young kids, ages 2-5, build critical thinking skills, expand vocabulary, and support imaginations as they play, create and explore. This week use blocks to stamp patterns for geometric art. $4 with museum admission.
• Where: Museum Row, Garden City
• Time: 11:30 a.m.-noon
• Contact: licm.org or (516) 224-5800
On stage
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
Old Westbury
• Time: Noon-1 p.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
SEPT
Fall into Autumn Storytime
Children ages 3-5 with caregiver can enjoy fall stories with a craft at Henry Waldinger Memorial Library.Registration required.
• Where: 60 Verona Place
• Time: 4-5 p.m.
• Contact: valleystreamlibrary.org or (516) 825-6422
Seasonal Sprouts
Bring the family to Old Westbury Gardens for fun, fresh air and fall beauty. Ages 4-10 can enjoy an educational outdoor tour through the vibrant autumn gardens, filled with colorful leaves, exploration, and nature-themed activities. This guided experience is designed just for kids, sparking curiosity about the changing seasons while encouraging hands-on discovery in the great outdoors. Registration required. $18, $10 children.
Adelphi University’s Department of Theater presents Samuel D. Hunter’s “The Harvest.” The a gripping, emotionally nuanced exploration of faith, family, and identity asks us to open our hearts and minds to the mystery of what it is to be human. Five young Christian evangelicals in a church basement in Idaho Falls are preparing themselves for a mission to the Middle East. One of them, Josh, is reeling after the death of his father, and has bought a one-way ticket with no plans to return. But when his estranged sister returns to Idaho Falls to stop him, the choice to leave becomes more complicated.
• Where: Adelphi University Black Box Theatre, 1 South Ave., Garden City
• Time: 6:30 p.m.; through Sept. 28, times vary
• Contact: adelphi.edu/pac or call (516) 877-4000
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.
THURSDAY NOVEMBER 6, 2025
EXCLUSIVE PRESENTING SPONSOR - $25,000
• Naming Rights & prominent recognition
• 15 Gala tickets, VIP reception
• Premium full-page digital journal ad
• Logo on all promotional materials, signage
• 30-sec presentation video
• Press & media announcements
STRONG SPONSORSHIP - $15,000
• 12 Gala tickets, VIP reception
• Prominent logo on materials & signage
• Full-page ad, press announcements
SMART SPONSORSHIP - $10,000
• 10 Gala tickets, VIP reception
• Full-page digital journal ad
• Logo on materials, signage & social media
BOLD SPONSORSHIP - $5,000
• 5 Gala tickets
• Full-page digital journal ad
• Prominent logo on materials & signage
• Social media mentions
CHAMPION FOR GIRLS - $2,500
6:30 - 10 PM THE HERITAGE CLUB AT BETHPAGE FOR INFO OR QUESTIONS, PLEASE CONTACT: JCAPELLABROWN@GIRLSINCLONGISLAND.ORG
• 3 Gala tickets
• Half-page digital journal ad
• Logo on signage & social media
18, 2025 —
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
Public Notices
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU US BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, TRUSTEE FOR LEHMAN BROTHERSSTRUCTURED ASSET INVESTMENT LOAN TRUST-SAIL 2005-3, Plaintiff, Against LILIANA VELASQUEZ, RICHIE VASQUEZ, Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 09/30/2008, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court located at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, N.Y. 11501 on 9/29/2025 at 2:00PM, premises known as 158 Cochran Place, Valley Stream, New York 11581, and described as follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York. Section 39 Block 479 Lot 26 The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $444,277.42 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 021795/07 If proper social distancing cannot be maintained or there are other health or safety concerns, the then Court Appointed Referee will cancel the Foreclosure Auction. This Auction will be held rain or shine. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. Jane Shrenkel, Esq., Referee.
SHELDON MAY & ASSOCIATES Attorneys at Law, 255 Merrick Road, Rockville Centre, NY 11570
Dated: 7/24/2025 File Number: 32665 CA 155378
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR STRUCTURED ASSET INVESTMENT LOAN TRUST, MORTGAGE
PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-BNC1, Plaintiff, vs. MICHAEL R. HIGGINS; IF LIVING, AND IF HE BE DEAD, ANY AND ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on June 7, 2022, 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 29, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 9 Jasper Street, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Elmont, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37, Block 458 and Lot 156. Approximate amount of judgment is $577,472.04 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #608825/2018.
Geri Friedman, Esq., Referee
Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, LLC, 10 Bank Street, Suite 700, White Plains, New York 10606, Attorneys for Plaintiff 155371
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, WILMINGTON
SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, AS OWNER TRUSTEE OF THE RESIDENTIAL CREDIT OPPORTUNITIES TRUST VIII-C, Plaintiff, vs. STEVEN L. OLSEN
A/K/A STEVEN OLSEN, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on March 4, 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 30, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 107 East Saint Marks Place a/k/a 107 Saint Marks Place, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings
and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37, Block 108 and Lots 15-16. Approximate amount of judgment is $356,804.30 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #617713/2022.
Brian J. Davis, Esq., Referee
Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Fim File No.: 240474-1 155367
LEGAL NOTICE
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NASSAU
SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS AND NOTICE
Index No. 605311/2024
Date Filed: 8/26/25
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Plaintiff, -againstNassau County Public Administrator, as Limited Administrator of the Estate of Coleen Watson; Any unknown heirs, devisees, distributees or successors in interest of the late Coleen A. Watson, if they be living or, if they be dead, their spouses, heirs, devisees, distributees and successors in interest, all of whom and whose names and places of residence are unknown to the Plaintiff; Board of Managers of Dutchgate at North Valley Stream Homeowners Association; State of New York, and “JOHN DOE”, said name being fictitious, it being the intention of Plaintiff to designate any and all occupants of premises being foreclosed herein, and any parties, corporations or entities, if any, having or claiming an interest or lien upon the mortgaged premises, Defendants.
PROPERTY ADDRESS: 111 Willow Lane, Unit 112, North Valley Stream, NY 11580
TO THE ABOVE NAMED
DEFENDANTS:
YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or a notice of appearance on the attorneys for the Plaintiff within thirty (30) days after the
service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint.
TO THE ABOVE NAMED
DEFENDANTS: The foregoing Summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Jeffrey A. Goodstein, a Justice of the Supreme Court, Nassau County, entered August 25, 2025 and filed with the complaint and other papers in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure $97,250.00 and interest, recorded in the Nassau County Clerk’s Office on December 14, 2012, at 38061 of Mortgages, page 275 covering premises known as 111 Willow Lane, Unit 112, North Valley Stream, NY 11580 a/k/a Section 37, Block 672, Lot 14. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. Plaintiff designates Nassau County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is situated.
NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME
IF YOU DO NOT RESPOND TO THIS SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE MORTGAGE COMPANY WHO FILED THIS FORECLOSURE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT, A DEFAULT JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED AND YOU CAN LOSE YOUR HOME.
SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY OR GO TO THE COURT WHERE YOUR CASE IS PENDING FOR FURTHER INFORMATION 0N HOW TO ANSWER THE SUMMONS AND
PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY. SENDING A PAYMENT TO VOUR MORTGAGE COMPANY WILL NOT STOP THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION.
YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.
Dated: June 20, 2025
Steven M. Palmer, Esq. Foreclosure Attorney LOGS LEGAL GROUP LLP
Attorneys for Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624
(585) 247-9000
Fax: (585) 247-7380
Our File No. 23-095226 #102504 155444
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF NASSAU THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE HOLDERS OF THE GE-WMC ASSETBACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-2, Plaintiff, AGAINST EDITH COOK, et al. Defendant(s) Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on August 13, 2024.
I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on October 2, 2025 at 2:00 PM premises known as 932 Dana Avenue, Valley Stream, NY 11580. Please take notice that this foreclosure auction shall be conducted in compliance with the Foreclosure Auction Rules for Nassau County and the COVID 19 Health Emergency Rules, including proper use of masks and social distancing.
All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Hempstead, at Valley Stream, County
of Nassau and State of New York. Section 0037, Block 00633-00 and Lot 00014. Approximate amount of judgment $560,291.44 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #601430/2018.
Ellen Durst, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLPAttorneys for Plaintiff40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747 155490
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff AGAINST KEVIN VALENTINE, JAMISE VALENTINE, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered November 21, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on October 14, 2025 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 106 Munro Boulevard, Valley Stream, NY 11581. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, in the County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 39 Block 58 Lot 4. Approximate amount of judgment $597,704.86 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #606687/2023. William J. Garry, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 23-000429 86945 155636
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 October 10, 2025 at 2:00 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. Peter L. Kramer, Es q., Referee Referee’s Phone Number: 516-510-4020 Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-000154 86944 155634
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, TOWER DB XI TRUST 2021-1, Plaintiff, vs. CARLA GIORDANI, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated July 14, 2025 and duly entered on July 28, 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 October 17, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 1115 Furth Road, 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 Town of Hempstead, County
of Nassau and State of New York, Section 39, Block 511 and Lot 7. Approximate amount of judgment is $42,847.77 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #607387/24. William Garry, Esq., Referee Bronster, LLP, 156 West 56th Street, Suite 703, New York, New York 10019, Attorneys for Plaintiff 155787
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE, IN TRUST FOR REGISTERED HOLDERS OF LONG BEACH MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2004-2. ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2004-2, Plaintiff AGAINST ROLAND KATWAROO, CHANDRADAI KATWAROO, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 24, 2018, 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 October 22, 2025 at 2:30 pm, premises known as 86 Fletcher Avenue, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Valley Stream, in the Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37, Block 169, Lot 5, 6, 7. Approximate amount of judgment $272,870.67 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provi sions of filed Judgment Index #002574/2016.
William Boccio, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 17-002896 87036 155749
To place a notice here call us at 516-569-4000 x232 or send an email to: legalnotices@liherald.com
Projct Engneer I (Bellport, NY): Rview & anlyze blueprnts & d
, Constrctn Mgmt or rel & 1 yr exp as Projct Engneer, Civl Engneer, or rel psition. Alterntively, emplyr also accpts Bach or equiv in Civl Engnerng, Constrctn Mgmt or rel & 2 yrs exp as Projct Engneer, Civl Engneer, or rel psition. Salr y: $100,131/yr Mail resume to: HR, Integrated Structures Corp., 4 Pinehurst Dr, Bellport, NY 11713.
Constrctn Mgmt or rel & 1 yr exp as Projct Engneer, Civl Engneer, or rel psition. Alterntively, emplyr also accpts Bach or equiv in Civl Engnerng, Constrctn Mgmt or rel & 2 yrs exp as Projct Engneer, Civl Engneer, or rel psition. Salry: $100,131/yr Mail resume to: HR, Integrated Structures Corp., 4 Pinehurst Dr, Bellport, NY 11713.
Premier Waterfront Living
A reader offers a correction on P.T. boats
A reader from Bellmore, Steven Vella, wrote to question my recent column in which I addressed bomb shelters and the related specific construction of P.T. boats (“In today’s world, bomb shelters are part of the conversation,” July 24-30).
I stated that gunite concrete has some of the highest construction strength, at over 6,000 pounds per square inch, and that swimming pools and “P.T. boats are as strong as steel, and when all of the layers of steel reinforcement rods are contoured into the shape of a boat hull, the ships prove capable, as they did in World War II, of catching exploding torpedoes and absorbing the impact.” P.T. stands for patrol torpedo, and P.T. boats were meant to be lighter, swifter craft for short-range reconnaissance and rapid deployment of torpedoes to attack enemy ships. Vella, a World War II buff, pointed out that he was only aware, through a relative who worked for the Elco Boat Company, in Bayonne, New Jersey — a major builder of P.T. boats for the U.S. Navy — that “the keel is a 70-foot-long piece of 6 x 6 Alaskan spruce. The stem is of American oak. The frames (ribs) are of African mahogany. Sides and bottom of the hull are double-planked mahogany with canvas laid in marine glue in between the diagonally spaced planking.” I misstated that the steel-rod-reinforced construction was used for P.T. boats, when it was actually used for slower-moving landing craft, such as the type used at the beach landing at Normandy, and for barges shipping supplies. The slower-moving craft needed to be heavily reinforced because they were, presumably, easier targets.
Unlike today, where we can instantly find information on almost any topic using our cellphones, I sat in my Methods and Materials classes in architecture school, 50 years ago, and listened to professors explain the physical and chemical properties as well as the applied uses of materials in construction, without the ability to research or fact-check. I never forgot the story related to us about the strength of the concrete, the application to Navy vessels and the story of torpedoes being trapped without exploding, in the sides of some boat hulls. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to confirm the type of concrete used, or that the boats in which the cement and steel reinforcement were applied weren’t P.T. boats, back then.
The concrete type was still steel-reinforced, but it was fero-cement, and not gunite. Gunite is cement that is sprayed using a high-pressure gun, often referred to as a cannon, and the mix is semi-dry cement and sand. The actual concrete hulls that the Navy engineers came up with were made of handapplied cement over steel reinforcing rods. Concrete and steel are used together in many different configurations, because concrete is extraordinarily strong in compression and highly resistant to crushing, and steel is highly tensile or flexible. When applied together, the combination provides great resistance to impacts, such as bombs. So thank you, Steven, for your noteworthy question.
© 2025 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd.,
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Announcements
AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET. If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-833-323-0160
SAVE ON YOUR TRAVEL PLANS!
Up to 75% More than 500 AIRLINES and 300,000 HOTELS across the world. Let us do the research for you for FREE! Call: 877 988 7277
Antiques/Collectibles
We Buy Antiques, Fine Art, Coins & Jewelry Same Day Service, Free In-Home Evaluations, 45 Year Family Business. Licensed and Bonded, Immediate Cash Paid. SYL-LEE ANTIQUES www.syl-leeantiques.com 516-671-6464
Miscellaneous For Sale
FOR SALE: Household, Patio Furniture, Art, Bric-a-brac, Excellent Condition, Low Prices. Call For Particulars. 516-672-3331
Wanted To Buy
COSTUME JEWELRY WANTED Necklaces, Earrings, Bracelets & Rings. Also Buying Gold & Silver. $$ CASH PAID $$ 631-500-0792 Long Island / Will Travel FINDS UNDER $100
Finds Under $100
AIWA NSX-AJ200 STEREO. Digital Compact 3 CD changer. AM/FM Radio Remote, 2 speakers. $69 516-320-1906
BABY STROLLER, GRACO : Modes Bassinet LX , Click Connect, three in one, excellent, $85, 516-678-0694. Convertible Crib with mattress, Harper 4 in 1, Oxford Baby, brown wood, good . $75, 516-678-0694.
DRESSERS: TWO BLACK Wood. Single drawer, 2 doors w/shelf. Formica top. W-32"xH-30"xD-18" $90 Both. 516-320-1906
GIRLS CLOTHES, DRESSES, Shoes, North Face Jacket- Brand New, Nike Sneakers, Jordan Sneakers $99. 516-987-0099
LL BEAN HUNTING Boots: Size 9. 12" High in excellent condition, $80. (516) 486-2363.
SERVICES
Brick/Block/Concrete/Masonry
***MASONRY & CONSTRUCTION***
EARLY BIRD DISCOUNTS!
GIUSEPPE MUCCIACCIARO
We Do Pavers, Cultured Stone, Concrete, Bluestone, Blacktop, Fireplace, Patio, Waterproofing, Walkways, Pool Work. Lic#H2204320000 Family Operation Over 40Years. 516-238-6287
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
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
BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-833-807-0159
Home Improvement
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
PAVERS- CONCRETE- BLACKTOP Book Now & Save On All Masonry Work. Driveways- Patios- Stoops- SidewalksWalkways- Stonework- Pool SurroundsOutdoor Kitchens- Family Owned/ Operated For Over 40Yrs. FREE Estimates. Lic# H1741540000.
DANSON CONSTRUCTION INC 516-409-4553; 516-798-4565 www.dansoninc.com
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
AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER?
STORM DAMAGE? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-833-880-7679
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: 1-833-323-0318. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest provider.
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! 1-833-549-0598 Have zip code of property ready when calling!
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
Tree Services
T&M GREENCARE TREE SERVICE
*TREE REMOVAL *STUMP GRINDING *PRUNING. FREE ESTIMATES. 516-223-4525, 631-586-3800 www.tmgreencare.com
Satellite/TV Equipment
DIRECTV- All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Direct 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
Health & Fitness
ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-833-661-4172
ATTENTION: VIAGRA AND CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 1-833-641-6397
HEARING AIDS!! HIGH-QUALITY rechargeable, powerful Audien hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Tiny and NEARLY INVISIBLE! 45-day money back guarantee! 855-819-7060
AUTOMOBILE & MARINE
Autos Wanted
***AAA*** AUTO BUYERS $Highest$ Ca$h Paid$. All Years/ Conditions!
mArthA jAcoviDes
Editor
office
2 Endo Boulevard
Garden City, NY 11530
Phone: (516) 569-4000
Fax: (516) 569-4942
Web: www.liherald.com
E-mail: vseditor@liherald.com officiAl
Our disagreements must stop at debate
the United States has long prided itself on being a nation in which political differences are aired by way of ballots, not bullets. In recent years, however, violence has too often invaded our public square, shattering lives, feeding a general atmosphere of fear and distrust, and undermining the democratic ideals we claim to cherish.
As we count down to Election Day on Nov. 4, we must recommit to the principle that civil political discourse — not intimidation, assault or bloodshed — is the only legitimate path forward.
Consider the troubling list of recent events. On Jan. 6, 2021, rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol, brutally attacking police officers in an effort to halt the peaceful transfer of power to then President-elect Joseph Biden, a Democrat. Five people died in the rioting. Since then, President Trump, a Republican, has survived two assassination attempts.
In 2022, Paul Pelosi, the husband of former Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, was bludgeoned with a hammer in the Pelosis’ home in San Francisco. In April of this year, a man attempted to burn down the residence of Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, a fellow Democrat.
In June, Minnesota State Rep. Melissa Hortman, a Democrat, was killed in a targeted attack at her home, along with
letters
Blakeman has a narrow definition of ‘safe’
To the Editor:
Re County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s op-ed last week, “Protecting our kids and keeping Nassau County safe”: Blakeman’s myopia ought not be ours. Though the Nassau County Police Department is top-notch in both competence and compensation, “safety” is a far broader sentiment than armed personnel.
With the most foreclosures in the metropolitan region, Nassau is not a safe place for those who can’t keep up with the Joneses. Our growing population of residents dependent on food bank services, absentee landlords and gig work surely appreciate our police, but don’t feel safe from economic predation. And neither drivers nor pedestrians are especially safe in Nassau, and the roadways themselves would win no awards.
Our famed police are no comfort to anyone viewed through ICE-eyes as dusky, dusty or dawdling. We are not yet saved from Nassau’s dual-action dysfunctional
her husband, Mark Hortman. In a separate incident, Minnesota State Sen. John Hoffman, also a Democrat, and his wife were wounded, allegedly by the same gunman.
On Sept. 10, one day before our national commemoration of the worst terrorist attack on U.S. soil, the assassination of conservative political activist Charlie Kirk shook the nation.
All of these acts, though politically motivated in different ways, shared a tragic theme: a rejection of reasoned debate in favor of violence. The perpetrators’ actions defied both justice and ethics. Political leaders, regardless of party, must unequivocally denounce violence not only when it is directed at their allies, but also when it strikes their adversaries.
The answers to bitter disagreements can be found instead in the very foundation of American law: our Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech, association and petition. These rights were spelled out so that individuals and groups could argue, persuade and organize without fear of reprisal.
Violence, by contrast, seeks to silence opponents permanently. It is not an expression of political conviction but rather a repudiation of it — an attempt to destroy debate rather than contribute to it. That is why every civilized society criminalizes assault, murder and terrorism. To resort to such methods is not
only to break the law but also to tear at the moral fabric that holds communities together.
Violence corrodes democracy itself. When citizens and leaders live under constant threat, they retreat from public engagement. Ordinary people withdraw from activism. Elected officials alter decisions out of fear for their families’ safety. Journalists censor themselves to avoid becoming targets. These chilling effects shrink the civic space, and create an atmosphere of suspicion and anger.
The way forward requires a cultural shift that emphasizes respect, empathy and resilience even in the face of profound disagreements. Everyone from students to business executives to politicians to the media should refuse to share disinformation, avoid demonizing those with whom we have differing opinions and welcome calm, reasoned argument that can change minds more effectively than threats ever could.
Passionate debate is fine. Disagreement is natural in a diverse society, and progress often emerges from that vigorous discussion. In stark contrast, every time a political leader is targeted, every time a citizen is attacked for his or her beliefs, the American experiment itself is weakened.
At this point in our country’s history, the stakes could not be higher. We must choose civility over cruelty, and persuasion over violence.
opinions On students and electronic devices
idecided that it was about time I waded into the figurative social media minefield that surrounds us.
Once again, we should devote a lot more research into this than time or space permits here. I’ll focus on children — students in particular.
In my 40 years in education, I witnessed many changes in teaching and students.
First, it is impossible to stop changes, and advancements in technology.
Despite any laws or mandates, students will adapt, modify, adjust and hack into any roadblocks that lawmakers enact.
History shows us that technology advances faster than any legislation to control it.
Then there’s the age-old statement that it’s the duty and responsibility of parents to police their children’s exposure to social media platforms. We all know the truth here: Children adapt faster to different platforms than most parents can keep up with.
I think we can all agree that the internet, and these smart devices we all
carry around, are amazing tools, provide a wealth of information and can even be lifesaving. This is, of course, when we use them properly, and control them. It’s when they control us that the waters get muddy.
Here are some of the details that seem to escape so many parents, educators and lawmakers. First, the human brain fully develops at 25 years of age. Leaving choices up to minors is mistake No. 1.
Parents have to be the adults, not children. In New York state, 16 is the age to start driving and to get a fishing license, 12 — yes, 12 — to get a hunting license, 18 to join the military, 21 to drink and gamble. Seeing these in print should be a bit jarring. The brain develops at 25, but 12-year-olds can get hunting licenses?
w hen I started teaching, a student passing a note in class was a big deal.
gas-lighting. But the fact is, it was extremely difficult to stop cellphone use; photography, videos, web surfing, etc., were prevalent during class time. Thirty students, all hiding their phones, devoting zero time to educational lessons while passing notes and communicating with one another electronically, present quite the educational challenge.
multiply this by 30 students in a classroom. Friends would ask me, why not write that student up for administrative review and discipline? I would be doing that all day long.
Of course, parents and guardians have input, and there are stopgaps and training where licenses and permits are concerned. But I saw firsthand how students in the classroom felt so empowered that very little learning took place. I had to devote more and more time to classroom management than to actual learning and education. We can point to many reasons for this, some real, some
Letters
property-tax regime, its failed bus patrol tax, its Nassau University Medical Center mess nor wasteful BLAKEMAN signage. Nassau’s water safety is in question. Discoveries of buried chemical toxins and depleted shorelines threaten real estate, and the police cannot arrest viruses. Nassau has enough police, but not enough security.
BRIAN KELLY Rockville Centre
Honoring veterans through service and support
To the Editor:
On Sept. 12, the day after 9/11, the National Day of Service and Remembrance, PSEG Long Island, National Grid and the nonprofit General Needs came together to host the first-ever Veteran Warm Up event, serving more than 100 local veterans. At this drivethrough event, veterans received bedding, pillows, heaters, LED light bulbs and information about financial and energy-efficiency programs designed to help them
keep warm when the weather gets colder.
Why would PSEG Long Island step into this role? The answer is simple: because veterans are our neighbors, and many are among the most vulnerable members of our communities. Long Island is home to one of the largest populations of veterans in the country, and too many of them face challenges related to housing, health and employment. At PSEG Long Island, we believe our responsibility goes beyond keeping the lights on — we have a duty to support the well-being of the communities we serve.
That’s why, year after year, our employee-volunteers give their time, energy and compassion at events that provide direct aid to veterans and other neighbors in need. Collaborating with organizations like General Needs amplifies that impact, ensuring that resources reach those who need them most.
This commitment to community is an extension of our mission: to provide safe, reliable energy while also strengthening the fabric of the neighborhoods we call home. By supporting veterans, we honor their service and sacrifices while building a culture of understand -
When I started teaching, a student passing a written note in class was a big deal. Now students communicate with every other student in the class, the school and the entire world. Why bother learning and paying attention when they have the world at their fingertips? It became a full-time job to try to stop cellphone use, instead of teaching a lesson or developing any critical thinking skills.
Imagine this: a student texted their mother during class that I was asking them to put their cellphone away! Their mother promptly sent me an email stating that she allowed her child to use their phone whenever they want, and I had no business asking them to stop, even though it was clearly defined in the student code of conduct booklet. Now,
A cellphone ban has now gone into effect in New York state. Beginning this month, all public schools must implement policies prohibiting cellphone use during the entire school day. Personally, I hope this policy is successful. There will be plenty of pushback from students, and parents. Remember, most of today’s parents grew up using their cellphones in school. Students will still be using computers, laptops and tablets in class. I believe they will quickly find ways to communicate with those devices. It will be a full-time job for IT departments to try to keep up with these hacks and block them.
Clearly, we can’t just throw in the towel and give up. We must try to provide good examples for the next generations. Perhaps good old- fashioned education will help. We must go back to emphasizing, and placing more value on, critical thinking skills, and considering all factors of any given situation, as facts will always be at our fingertips. If we learn how to use our devices carefully, safely, accurately and professionally, they can be fantastic tools.
Ed Fare is the mayor of Valley Stream.
At the Town of Hempstead sunrise Sept. 11 memorial service — Town Park Point Lookout
ing and respect that benefits us all.
The Veteran Warm Up event is just one example of how PSEG Long Island strives to live out its values of safety, security and service. We do this because it’s the right
thing to do — for our veterans and for our communities.
Interim president and chief operating officer, PSEG Long Island
Framework by Tim Baker
DAVID LYONS
mountsinai.org/southnassau