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HERALD PERSON OF THE YEAR Nichole RojaS
She serves Valley Stream with compassion Celebrating a 'hoppy' Easter with a goodie bag giveaway. Page 7
Long Island Cares program center coordinator is honored for her impact By Angelina Zingariello
When the West Nassau Center for Food Assistance and Community Support opened in Valley Stream in September 2024, it marked more than the arrival of a new Long Island Cares food pantry location. It also brought to the community a coordinator whose life and career have been shaped by decades of service, persistence and a deep belief in helping others meet their most basic needs. he core For all she has done for the organization, the Herald is proud to name responsibility Nichole Rojas its 2025 Person of the is, I feel, to Year. Rojas, 50, is the program center comake my ordinator for the Valley Stream pantry, community having officially stepping into the role in September after initially joining happy and try Long Island Cares as a program associ- to help them ate during the center’s opening months. as best as She has become a steady presence for patrons, volunteers and partner orpossible. ganizations alike, guiding the pantry through its first year of operation at a NICHOlE ROjaS time of increased food insecurity across Program center Long Island. coordinator, “This is like a dream for me, because Long Island Cares it’s something I like to do,” Rojas said. Valley Stream “I love to work with people in the community, and helping people — that’s my thing.” Rojas grew up near the Franklin Square-Elmont border, attended Franklin Square’s Polk Street School and graduated from H. Frank Carey High School in 1993. She studied hospitality at Nassau Community College for two years, before deciding that the field wasn’t the right fit for her and going on to earn a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Adelphi University in 2000. Rojas discovered what she described as a calling toward service-oriented work. While completing her studies, she worked at the Center in Syosset, helping developmentally disabled children build life skills. In 2005 and 2006, she worked as a community coach with United Cerebral Palsy in Roosevelt,
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Court Street Music marks a quarter-century. Page 11
And here's to 100 more years of Valley Stream. Page 16
For BrEAKING NEWS go to liherald.com
assisting clients with significant physical disabilities. From 2006 to 2011, Rojas was a supportive case manager at Central Nassau Guidance Services, in Hicksville, helping people with mental health challenges secure housing, benefits and access to rehabilitative programs. She continued that work from 2011 to 2014 at Catholic Charities of Long Island, also in Hicksville, where she assisted seniors with housing placement, Meals on Wheels and other essential services. In 2014, Rojas gave birth to a son, Joell, and decided to step back from full-time work to focus on raising him. She later returned to a job search that would eventually lead her to Long Island Cares. “I actually used to see the Bethpage office when I used to pass over there, traveling,” she recalled. “I used to see Long Island Cares, and I would always say to myself I wanted to work there. I don’t know why, but it felt like something that I wanted to do.” When the Valley Stream location was preparing to open in 2024, Rojas applied, and was hired as a program associate. She Continued on page 25 Angelina Zingariello/Herald
Photo: Nichole Rojas has been program center coordinator at Long Island Cares’ Valley Stream pantry since September.
December 25, 2025 — VALLEY STREAM HERALD
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Herald file photo
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman now appears to be the Republican candidate for governor of New York.
Blakeman becomes GOP front-runner for governor By JEFFREY BESSEN jbessen@liherald.com
End the Year by Lifiting Up Your Neighbors As the cost of living continues to rise, more families across Long Island are turning to us for support. From parents working multiple jobs to seniors on fixed incomes, thousands rely on Long Island Cares for access to healthy, reliable food. Your year-end gift makes an immediate impact. It helps: • Keep our pantries stocked • Supports mobile food distributions • Ensures children, veterans, and seniors have the food they need
DONATE TODAY AT
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Your $10 = 6 Meals 1326326
Close the year with kindness.
Not long after upstate Rep. Elise Stefanik announced she suspended her campaign on Dec. 19 for New York governor and will not seek re-election to Congress, the path to the Republican nomination for New York’s top elected post became easier to navigate for Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman. “I want to thank Congresswoman Elise Stefanik for her outstanding service to the people of New York and to all Americans,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter). “At this pivotal moment for New York, it is essential that Republicans and al New Yorkers come together in unity.” Blakeman, 70, who regained another four-year term in November, wasn’t making headway in just about every poll, showing him trailing Stefanik, 41, by huge margins. The Atlantic Beach resident, who grew up in Valley Stream, was endorsed by President Donald Trump over the weekend and appears to picking up steam. And now there will not be a Republican primary for the post. “Bruce is MAGA all the way, and has been with me from the very beginning,” Trump posted on his X account. “As Nassau County Executive, he is working tirelessly with the Brave Heroes of ICE, Border Patrol, and Law Enforcement to Keep Our Border Secure, Stop Migrant Crime, Safeguard our Community, and Ensure LAW AND ORDER.” Blakeman, who officially announced he was running for governor on Dec. 12, initially received pushback from the state Republican and Nassau GOP committees. But now seems to have their support. “Bruce Blakeman has my endorsement and I urge our State Committee and party leaders to join me,” Cox said in a prepared statement. “Bruce is a fighter who has proven he knows how to
win in difficult political terrain. As County Executive, he cut taxes, fought against radical leftwing social policies and made Nassau County the safest county in America.” Stefanik made her announcement in a statement citing family considerations and strategic concerns about a prolonged Republican primary. “While spending precious time with my family this Christmas season, I have made the decision to suspend my campaign for Governor and will not seek reelection to Congress,” Stefanik said, adding that the decision was made with careful consideration for her family. She emphasized her role as a mother, saying she wanted to focus on her young son’s “safety, growth, and happiness.” Stefanik thanked voters in New York’s 21st Congressional District for entrusting her to represent them and expressed gratitude to her staff, highlighting what she described as significant results delivered over her 11 years in office. Incumbent Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul, 67, said she is ready to run against Blakeman.” “The fact is, ‘100% MAGA’ Bruce Blakeman traveled all the way to D.C. to celebrate Trump’s expensive tariffs, he ran Long Island’s safety net hospital into the ground by appointing corrupt cronies to run it, and let violent crime in Nassau County spike to its highest level in a decade,” she said in a news release. “Governor Hochul’s message to him or whichever lackey Trump picks to run against her is simple: Bring it on.” Blakeman, whose father Robert served as an assemblyman and brother, Brad, was on the staff of President George W. Bush, has served as a Town of Hempstead councilman twice, in the County Legislature, including being the first presiding officer, and as a Port Authority commissioner. If elected he would be the first Long Islander to be governor.
Herald file photo Courtesy Brian Grogan
Enjoying festive fun. The highlights of the annual Holiday Block Party included dazzling decorations, hot chocolate, hot dogs and Santa’s arrival. Susanna Cornelius, far left, Karen Blake and her dog, Hershey, enjoyed the holiday bash.
Honored for surgical excellence. Long Island Jewish Valley Stream joined an exclusive group of hospitals worldwide by earning the Quality Verification Program certification from the American College of Surgeons.
Courtesy Valley Stream District 13
First snow, first ride of the year. With Long Island blanketed in snow, Connor Grogan, of Valley Stream, rode his sled for the first time.
Sylvan Place: the little block party with huge holiday joy. For over three decades, Sylvan Place, in Valley Stream, transformed its friendly holiday light rivalry into a community tradition, drawing droves of visitors each year, including Joseph Rodriguez, above, with his toddler William.
South opens new mindfulness room. Valley Stream South High School held a ribboncutting ceremony this fall to celebrate the grand opening of the Falcon’s Nest, a new mindfulness and meditation space located in South’s guidance suite. Designed to help students unwind and recharge.
Courtesy Valley Stream Central High School District
Holden Leeds/Herald
Dever hosts cozy Winter Ball. James A. Dever Elementary School’s gymnasium was transformed into a magical winter wonderland for the school’s annual Winter Ball, hosted by the Parent- Teacher Association. The event brought together students, families, and staff to celebrate the season in a cozy and festive atmosphere.
VALLEY STREAM HERALD — December 25, 2025
Tim Baker/Herald
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Help Wanted Digital Pre-Press Operator – Full-Time, Evening/overnight shift J oin our web press production team! The Digital Pre-Press Operator prepares ads, editorial pages, and special sections for high-volume print production, ensuring files meet technical standards, color accuracy, and are press-ready. This hands-on role requires attention to detail, technical skill, and teamwork in a fast-paced environment. Responsibilities: • Preflight, prepare, and process digital files through RIP workflows. • Ensure accurate color, resolution, fonts, imposition, and plate readiness. • Perform quality checks on ads and editorial content. • Troubleshoot technical issues with files, RIP, and press output. • Coordinate with editorial, advertising, and pressroom teams. • Maintain file organization, backups, and workflow documentation. Requirements: • 2–5+ years pre-press experience in newspapers, magazines, or high-volume print. • Proficiency in Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat; RIP systems knowledge. • Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and ability to meet deadlines. • Ability to lift plates (20–30 lbs) and work in a production environment. Preferred:Experience with web press imposition, color-management systems, or workflow automation. Schedule: Evening/overnight shift, full-time; flexibility needed for peak periods. Compensation: Benefits package and hourly rate based on experience $17.50 - $23.50
Valley Stream LIRR station renovations unveiled By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
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Angelina Zingariello/Herald
MTA Chief Accessibility Officer Quemuel Arroyo speaks during the Dec. 19 press conference unveiling completed improvements at the Valley Stream LIRR station.
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December 25, 2025 — VALLEY STREAM HERALD
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The Metropolitan Transportation Authority announced the completion of a renovation project at the Valley Stream Long Island Rail Road station on Dec. 19. “The LIRR and MTA listened to concerns from the Valley Stream community and delivered on promises by delivering a beautiful new train station,” Assembly Member Michaelle Solages said. “I want to thank the MTA and their labor partners for giving us a station that is worthy of the people who use it every day.” The Valley Stream renovation is part of a larger group of projects that add seven stations to the list of accessible LIRR stations and replace elevators and escalators at two stations that were already accessible. Accessibility-related work at the station included replacing an escalator, installing a new staircase and replacing an elevator. Crews also constructed a new elevator machine room and a new electrical room, completed service upgrades and installed elevator vestibules to provide weather protection. Additional improvements included the installation of new security camer______________
as and updated station signage. Crews performed extensive state-of-good-repair work, including painting steel columns and girders, repairing structural cracks and spalling, replacing tactile warning strips, platform markers, and rubbing edge boards and upgrading the station’s public address system. “We are spending billions of dollars on station improvement projects, and it matters because every day people rely on us to get to school, work and everything else the region has to offer,” MTA Chief Accessibility Officer Quemuel Arroyo said. “State of good repair is synonymous with accessibility, and the MTA is committed to making the system work for all New Yorkers.” The project also included the addition of new parking spaces, improved lighting, sidewalks and crosswalks. New closed-circuit television cameras were installed throughout the station area. More than $12 million in federal funding was allocated to the project. The Valley Stream station is one of the busiest on the LIRR. On weekdays, 63 westbound trains and 57 eastbound trains stop at the station. Weekend service includes 43 westbound trains and 44 eastbound trains. The average monthly ridership in 2025 is nearly 137,000 riders.
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Courtesy Valley Stream District 13
District 13 schools honor MLK Day. Schools across Valley Stream District 13 took part in lessons and activities in honor of Martin Luther King. Jr. Day. The district aimed to inspire students to reflect on King’s legacy of peace, justice, and equality through creative activities and thoughtful discussions.
District 13 celebrates Lunar New Year. Valley Stream District 13 celebrated the Lunar New Year across its schools, bringing a vibrant blend of cultural awareness and festive joy to students and families.
Alice Moreno/Herald
Courtesy Valley Stream District 13
A celebration of literature. Students at Clear Stream Avenue School in Valley Stream District 30 celebrated World Read Aloud Day with a book fair. World Read Aloud Day is a global initiative that encourages people of all ages to come together and share the magic of stories through reading aloud.
Alice Moreno/Herald
Courtesy Valley Stream District 30
District 13 shines at All-County Festival. Nearly 60 talented student musicians at Valley Stream District 13 participated in the prestigious Nassau Music Educators Association All-County Music Festival this year. The annual event, which brings together young musicians from across the county, is a testament to the dedication, passion, and skill of the students in our district’s music programs.
PeachFuzz Skin Studio offers inclusive care. PeachFuzz Skin Studio, founded by CEO and Nurse Practitioner Keisha Wagner-Gaymon and COO Kristin Wagner, has expanded to Valley Stream, officially opening its newest location on Feb. 6.
Lions Club welcomes new members. New members Amrit Singh, Don Pupke, Liz Nigro, Carl Mirabile, Ed Guerrero, Eleanor Cattry and Su Deep Roy were welcomed into the Valley Stream Lion’s Club.
VALLEY STREAM HERALD — December 25, 2025
Courtesy Valley Stream District 13
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Courtesy Valley Stream District 13
Awarded for patient safety. Long island Jewish Valley Stream hospital earned the 2025 patient Safety excellence award for its commitment to patient care and safety, achieving top-tier performance in areas like infection prevention and stroke care.
Tim Baker/Herald
Courtesy Northwell Health
December 25, 2025 — VALLEY STREAM HERALD
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Central student discusses issues. Kimont Person of Valley Stream Central High School was among more than 100 students from 10 high schools in Nassau County gathered for the 2025 Long Island Leaders for Tomorrow Conference at Hofstra University to discuss issues of racial equity and justice.
Renee DeLorenzo/Herald
Jumping into heart health. Wheeler Avenue School students participated in the annual Jump Rope for Heart event, a fun and engaging initiative designed to promote heart health, physical activity and healthy habits. Led by physical education instructors, the event brought the school community together to raise awareness and funds for life-saving heart disease research through the American Heart Association.
Pottery for a cause. Rescuing Families, a Franklin Squarebased nonprofit, hosted a pottery night fundraiser. The event was hosted to raise funds toward home renovations for a family in Valley Stream that has a disabled father and son, and whose mother is their sole caregiver.
District 13 celebrates P.S. I Love You Day. Valley Stream District 13 took part in P.S. I Love You Day, a special event dedicated to promoting mental health awareness, kindness and unity.
Courtesy Valley Stream District 13
Rei Wolfsohn/Herald
Women who lift others up. Nine women from Elmont, Franklin Square and Valley Stream were honored for their contributions to their communities at Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages’s 12th annual Women of Distinction ceremony at Sewanhaka High School. The 2025 honorees were Gabrielle Barry, Jennifer Bellamy, Erum Hanif, Sonya Jones, Aviva Kane, Claire Leon, Julie Soffientini, Aisha Stevenson and Althea Thomas.
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Herald file photo
Courtesy Valley Stream Central High School District
VALLEY STREAM HERALD — December 25, 2025 High schools invest in trades career program. In the halls of Valley Stream’s high schools, a new norm is taking shape as the district fully embraces trade and technical training, with Lori Rodriguez at the helm as its first-ever work-based learning coordinator.
Bringing fashion to the classroom. Sixth-grade students from Robert W. Carbonaro in Valley Stream 24's Challenge Program demonstrated their artistic vision and historical insight in the fashion design category of the New York State Art Teachers Association's Olympics of the Visual Arts held in Saratoga Springs. Students Vanessa H., Alessandra P., and Viktoria S. earned third place for their original creation — an ornate formal dress inspired by the lavish fashion and social norms of the Gilded Age.
Melissa Baptiste/Herald
Courtesy Valley Stream District 24
Celebrating Easter fun. Nicauris Moronta, right, enjoys the festivities with 6-year-old Nadia 6 and 3-year-old Nylah with plenty of giveaways and treats.
Courtesy Valley Stream District 24
Melissa Baptiste/Herald
Swim team earns All-Conference honors. The Valley Stream Boys’ district swim team made its mark in Nassau County, securing All-Conference honors in just its second year of competition. The team’s breakthrough performance was spearheaded by standout swimmers Justin Cruz, Wayne Wingson III, Magnus Gros, Marc Santamaria and Metehan Yilmaz.
William L. Buck honors its custodial staff. The PTA, staff and students of William L. Buck in Valley Stream District 24 celebrated and honored its custodial team during this year’s Founder’s Day celebration. The event was a heartfelt tribute to the essential role these staff members play in creating a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for the school community. A hoppy Easter Goodie Bag Giveaway. The Village of Valley Stream welcomed families from across the neighborhood for its annual Easter Goodie Bag Giveaway — an event that’s become a springtime staple, now infused with extra meaning as the village celebrated its 100th anniversary.
Terry Uellendahl/Herald
VSS in the playoffs. The Falcons set the foundation for a winning culture with their first boys’ soccer playoff appearance in eight years. Finishing the season at 5-7-3, third-place in Conference A-I and the No. 8 seed in the Nassau ‘A’ playoffs.
Ron Manfredi/Herald
VSN races to county title. Led by freshman Gavin Trustey, the Valley Stream North boys’ cross-country team used its superior depth and surprising performances to capture the Nassau Class III championship Oct. 31.
Paul Grassini/Herald
Derrick Dingle/Herald
December 25, 2025 — VALLEY STREAM HERALD
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VSS wins 68-64 shootout. In a wild Nassau Conference III football game destined to come down to the final possession, VSS pulled out a record-setting 68-64 victory over the Dragons thanks to QB Danny Casey’s 1-yard TD run with 17 seconds left.
VSC boys’ volleyball rebuilds. Valley Stream Central surged to one of its best seasons of all time, going 16-5 overall, making a long-awaited playoff return. Under coach Kevin Mayer, the Eagles improved from a 3-13 record two years ago.
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VALLEY STREAM HERALD — December 25, 2025
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December 25, 2025 — VALLEY STREAM HERALD
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Jason Thomas/Herald
Long-hoped community garden is here. Local officials and residents gathered to celebrate Valley Stream’s first public community garden, the result of a yearslong grassroots effort to build a greener, more self-reliant future in this increasingly connected suburban village. Created through a partnership between ReWild Long Island, local officials and volunteers, is cultivating fresh produce and native plants, and offering hands-on environmental education to support both local families and climate resilience.
Jason Thomas/Herald
Commemorating Memorial Day. Valley Stream residents gathered for the annual Memorial Day parade. John Perkins, a Bronze Star recipient and member of VFW Post 1790, served as this year’s Grand Marshal.
Village, county police mark centennial with tribute. Community members, law enforcement officials and local leaders gathered at the intersection of Merrick Road and Arlington Avenue to honor the memory of Nassau County Police Detective Hector Nunez. The ceremony marked the dedication of a refurbished police booth and a street sign bearing Nunez’s name.
Courtesy Lori LoQuercio
Angelina Zingariello/Herald
Marching with honor. The Memorial Day parade began at Wheeler Avenue and Rockaway Parkway after a service by the Valley Stream Fire Department.
Uniting community through local flavor. The Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce hosted its first-ever Taste of Valley Stream event, a community fundraiser designed to showcase local restaurants and businesses while bringing residents together. Held at the VFW Hall, the event drew about 150 attendees and featured a variety of food offerings from local restaurants.
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Courtesy Michelle Tritschler
Courtesy Valley Stream Central High School District
VALLEY STREAM HERALD — December 25, 2025 A scout helps a garden grow. Kevin Tritschler completed his Eagle Scout project by building two planter boxes, two compost bins and weather-resistant educational signage for the Valley Stream Beautification Committee’s new community garden.
Dueling dishes at LIJ hospital. Long Island Jewish Valley Stream hosted Academy Charter School seniors from the Uniondale academy for a hands-on event that had the students to exploring the hospital’s Food and Nutrition Services department through a sensory tasting and a cooking competition styled after a popular television show format as part of the MedVoyage program.
Angelina Zingariello/Herald
Angelina Zingariello/Herald
Young painter builds big league business. Evan Taveras is one of Valley Stream’s youngest entrepreneurs. His clients are famous athletes such as Yankee outfielder Jazz Chisholm Jr. and boxer Amanda Serrano. He offers a creative service: he adds colorful paintings to athletes’ hats, cleats and other accessories.
Tim Baker/Herald
Courtesy Melissa Taveras
Students recognized for arts achievements. Valley Stream Central High School students Monty Person and Tatianna Rosello were among the top 50 2025 Roger Rees Outstanding Performer Awards nominees. Their performances as The Scarecrow and Dorothy in the school’s fall production of The Wiz, under the direction of teacher Patrick Tirino, earned them selection from a competitive pool of performers across the Tri-State area.
Court Street Music marks 25 years. Court Street Music, a community-rooted music school founded in 1999 by composer pianist Leonard Lehrman and soprano Helene Williams in Valley Stream, marked its 25th anniversary on June 15 with a free public house concert and student recital showcasing emerging talent and professional premieres.
Small cents adds up to $15K. Ten local schools were awarded a total of $15,350 through the Green Acres Mall’s School Cents program.
Courtesy Athlete Relations
Tim Baker/Herald
Skye Margies/Herald
December 25, 2025 — VALLEY STREAM HERALD
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North honors its graduating class. Valley Stream North High School held its graduation ceremony at the Tilles Center at LIU Post, creating an atmosphere filled with pride and emotion. Students, family members and staff came together to celebrate.
Valley Stream lights up the sky. Valley Stream marked Independence Day with a festive fireworks celebration at Fireman’s Memorial Field. Residents gathered for an evening of music, activities and food before the night concluded with fireworks.
Tim Baker/Herald
Andre Cisco hosts football camp. New York Jets safety Andre Cisco returned to his hometown of Valley Stream to lead his second annual youth football camp at Memorial Junior High School. The free camp welcomed local athletes ages 7 to 18 for a morning of football instruction, physical training and personal development.
LIJ Valley Stream performs first Ortoma AI surgery. Long Island Jewish Valley Stream became the first hospital in the United States to perform a total hip replacement using the Ortoma system, an artificial intelligence-assisted surgical platform. The procedure was performed by Dr. James Germano, chair of orthopedics.
South caps off the school year with graduation. The Tilles Center at LIU Post was filled with energy as Valley Stream South High School held its graduation ceremony. Students, families and staff gathered to honor their accomplishments.
Tim Baker/Herald
Courtesy Northwell Health
Central marks graduation. Valley Stream Central High School held its graduation ceremony at the Tilles Center at LIU Post. The event brought together family, friends and faculty to honor the seniors’ hard work and dedication.
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Holden Leeds/Herald
Stu Goldman/Herald
VALLEY STREAM HERALD — December 25, 2025 Good times and classic vibes. Rockaway Avenue was buzzing on Aug. 8 as Valley Stream’s weekly Friday-night Classic Car Show rolled into town, this time with the coveted Mayor’s Trophy on the line.
Winning the Mayor’s Trophy. Cedric “Leggs” Ballah of Laurelton cruised away with top honors for his sleek 1970 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Courtesy Valley Stream Central School District
Stu Goldman/Herald
Serving music and smiles. Dwight Campbell (DJ Xtacey) smiled as he played the tunes for the Millbrook Civic Association block party.
Alice Moreno/Herald
Alice Moreno/Herald
Local talent on display. Community members gathered to celebrate the creativity of residents taking part in the village’s art programs for children, adults and seniors. Led by local artist and instructor Matt Khan, the programs produced a wide range of works that filled the gallery space.
Annual Millbrook Civic Association block party. The Millbrook Civic Association hosted its annual block party on Eastwood Lane bringing residents together for an afternoon of music, food and community connection.
Students join school board as new advisers. The Central High School District officially introduced ex officio student board members to its Board of Education. The district appointed three student representatives, one from each of its high schools.
Angelina Zingarielo/Herald
Local composer celebrates book release. 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 Composer.”
Christine Rivera/Herald
Will Sheeline/Herald
December 25, 2025 — VALLEY STREAM HERALD
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History on display. 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.
Christine Rivera/Herald
A small pinch goes a long way. Flu season arrived early at Long Island Jewish Valley Stream Hospital, where prevention took center stage. The hospital held a flu vaccination event, offering free shots to the public, including patients, visitors and staff. Hospital leadership, including President Jason Tan, received their vaccinations during the event.
Celebrating 30 years of V.S. Lions flea market. Shoppers and treasure hunters filled the A.J. Hendrickson Pool parking lot for the Valley Stream Lions Club’s 30th annual flea market. The event attracted hundreds of visitors and more than 100 vendors, all showcasing a wide variety of items from antiques and collectibles to toys, jewelry, household goods and more.
Dever School cuts ribbon on Zen Den. James A. Dever Elementary School officially opened its new Zen Den with a ribboncutting ceremony, marking the debut of a space designed for mindfulness, reflection and emotional well-being.
Angelina Zingariello/Herald
Holden Leeds/Herald
Village holds annual 9/11 memorial. 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.
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VALLEY STREAM HERALD — December 25, 2025
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HERALD Thrive Awards Dinner 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM Do you know a small or family-owned Long Island business that’s making a big impact? Join us at the HERALD Thrive Awards dinner reception to celebrate the resilience, innovation, and dedication of Long Island’s family and small businesses who drive our economy forward. Whether they’re creating jobs, leading with vision, or giving back to the community, these businesses deserve recognition. Nominate today at richnerlive.com or scan!
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To learn ea more, contact Amy Amato: aamato@liherald.com, 516.569.4000 x224
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Alice Moreno/Herald
Tim Baker/Herald
December 25, 2025 — VALLEY STREAM HERALD
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And here’s to 100 more years. Valley Stream marked its centennial with a parade and block party. Residents, community groups and local leaders took part in a lively procession that included marching bands, scouts, youth sports teams, civic organizations and classic cars. The celebration continued on the Village Green, with food trucks, local vendors, games, a laser show and live music from Vinyl Revival and DJ Vincent Piazza.
LIJVS donates to Brooklyn Avenue. Brooklyn Avenue Elementary School received a range of classroom supplies from LIJ Valley Stream Hospital. Principal Scott Comis, along with fifth-grade teacher Leigh Tamburello and kindergarten teacher Joanna Walbrecht, visited the hospital lobby to collect items purchased through a Teacher Wish List drive.
Angelina Zingariello/Herald
Angelina Zingariello/Herald
Resident gives breast cancer the boot. Valley Stream native Joanne Ameruoso brought her message of “faith over fear” to the community once again with her fundraiser, “Give Breast Cancer the Boot,” held at St. Mary’s/Maris Stella Knights of Columbus in Lynbrook.
Angelina Zingariello/Herald
Courtesy Angela Ruisi
Good screaming fun. Hundreds of children and families gathered at Arthur J. Hendrickson Park in Valley Stream for the annual Halloween Family Fun Day, a village tradition held for more than two decades. The free event, organized by the Valley Stream Recreation Department, featured music, costumed characters, crafts and plenty of seasonal fun.
Students honored for service. The Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce held a ceremony to recognize students whose volunteer work has strengthened the connection between schools, businesses and the community. The event celebrated young people who devoted their time to Chamber initiatives, supporting everything from food truck festivals to community fairs. V.S. gathers for breast cancer awareness walk. Community members gathered at Arthur J. Hendrickson Park on for the Annual Dr. Elsy Mecklembourg-Guibert Memorial Breast Cancer Awareness Walk and Run, hosted by District 22 Assemblywoman Michaelle C. Solages.
Courtesy Northwell Health
LIJVS recognized as leader in joint replacement. Long Island Jewish Valley Stream was recognized as one of the top hospitals in New York State for joint replacement, following new ratings released by Healthgrades. The hospital is part of Long Island Jewish Medical Center. Together, the LIJ campuses have been ranked No. 2 statewide for joint replacement and are among America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Joint Replacement.
Courtesy Laura Mesa
Veterans Toiletry Drive concludes. The communitywide Veterans Toiletry Drive concluded with a hand-off at Memorial Junior High School, bringing together the many partners who contributed to this year’s expanded effort.
Alice Moreno/Herald
LIJVS nurse continues turkey tradition. For 18 years, Angelik Bell has spent the weekend before Thanksgiving making sure families in her community have what they need for the holiday. This year marked a milestone for the 47-year-old Long Island Jewish Valley Stream Hospital nurse case manager, who held the annual turkey giveaway for the first time in her own Uniondale backyard.
At Andy’s Barber Shop, vets didn’t pay. Since 2010, Andy’s Barber Shop has been a fixture on Rockaway Avenue, serving residents with quality grooming services. For the second consecutive year, owner Anderson Vargas hosted a special event at his barbershop, offering free haircuts to veterans in recognition of their sacrifices for the country.
Green Acres distributes 1,000 turkeys. The annual Thanksgiving turkey giveaway at Green Acres Mall is one of Long Island’s largest single-day turkey distributions. This 10-year tradition reflects the mall’s commitment to the community.
Eric Donaldson/Herald
Courtesy Anderson Vargas
Village holds annual Veterans Day event. The Village of Valley Stream hosted its annual Veterans Day Celebration at the Valley Stream Village Band Shell, bringing community members together to honor local veterans. The event also marked the start of the Village’s annual Toys for Tots Drive, held in partnership with the United States Marine Corps and the Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce.
VALLEY STREAM HERALD — December 25, 2025
Courtesy Northwell Health
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Courtesy Village of Valley Stream
Courtesy Desiree Fasulo
December 25, 2025 — VALLEY STREAM HERALD
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Kindness fundraiser sparks inflatable fun at Dever. An array of colorful inflatable costumes filled the scene as participants brought energy and creativity to the event organized by the Parent-Teacher Association to thank students, families and staff and to celebrate the success of this year’s Raise Craze fundraiser.
Village celebrates tree lighting and WinterFest. Valley Stream began its holiday celebrations with the village tree lighting in Hendrickson Park, drawing families to WinterFest. After the tree lighting, Emi Thornton, Jaden Lazarte-Klescovich and Bella Lazarte-Klescovich, of Valley Stream gathered for a festive photo with Santa.
Courtesy Valley Stream 24 School District
Alice Moreno/Herald
Cosmetology suite unveiled by Central H.S. Valley Stream Central High School officials, staff, students and community representatives gathered to cut the ribbon and officially open the renovated suite.
Courtesy Tina Castelluzzo
Angelina Zingariello/Herald
V.S. honors its civic partners. Mayor Ed Fare and the village trustees honored Darlene J. Edwards, owner of the Best Goodie Bag inc., with a citation at the board meeting, where other key community contributions were recognized.
V.S. Kiwanis Club completes veterans-focused donation drive. Kiwanis Club members gathered at the Long Island Cares Valley Stream location as they delivered the completed care packages.
LIJVS shows classroom support at Brooklyn Avenue. Northwell Health LIJ Valley Stream officials toured a Brooklyn Avenue School classroom to see the donated supplies in use for its “Sponsor a Classroom” initiative.
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HEALTH MEMO
December 25, 2025 — VALLEY STREAM HERALD
20
Some Holiday Advice For Those Living With Diabetes
T
he holidays can be a
levels, so this device is not
challenging time for the
appropriate for individuals who
What should I do if I get a CGM alert? Check your blood sugar to confirm the reading. If
more than 38 million
depend on immediate
it is running higher than usual, drink water, confirm
Americans living with diabetes.
warnings to manage
you have taken all prescribed diabetes medications,
For one, many patients
hypoglycemia or other urgent
and consider some light exercise like walking. If your
living with diabetes wear
glucose-related issues. Stelo is
CGM is reading “HIGH,” call your doctor or adjust
continuous glucose monitoring
not covered by insurance;
your medications as prescribed by your doctor. If you
devices to manage glycemic
however, health savings
are experiencing nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain,
control—the process of
accounts or flexible spending
fruity breath odor, difficulty breathing, or confusion
keeping blood glucose levels as
accounts can be used to pay
accompanied by a HIGH alert, visit the nearest
close to target ranges as
for it.
emergency room, as you may be experiencing a life-
possible without causing harmful side effects like hypoglycemia. They are constantly monitoring how subtle changes in their diets and daily habits, from the foods and snacks they eat to the beverages they drink and
Effie Tsomos, MD, Chief of Endocrinology at Mount Sinai South Nassau, helps patients safely manage their diabetes during the holiday season when changes in diet and daily habits can pose risk.
the amount of sleep they get, affect their diabetes. Mount Sinai South Nassau’s Chief of Endocrinology, Effie Tsomos, MD, and Meghan Costigan-Kraus, NP, CDCES, Director of Diabetes Education, offer some answers and recommendations to frequent questions they receive from their patients during the holidays. What are the differences between 10-day and 15-day continuous glucose monitors (CGMs)? Ten-day CGMs are designed to be worn for up to 10 days before the sensor needs to be replaced. Fifteen-day CGMs extend the wear period to 15 days. All of these systems provide real-time glucose readings and alerts for high or low glucose levels, making them especially appropriate for people who need continuous glucose data to manage diabetes safely. Because of their advanced medical features, they require a prescription. Another 15-day CGM option is the Stelo, which differs significantly from prescription-based CGMs. Stelo is designed for adults 18 years and older and is available without a prescription, making it more accessible to individuals who want to monitor
What are the most important steps for managing safe blood sugar levels during the holidays? To stay safe and maintain stable glucose levels, eat meals at regular times, maintain a steady sleep schedule, and take
your medications exactly as prescribed. Avoid skipping meals or overeating, as both can cause significant disruptions in blood glucose. Skipping meals may lead to low blood sugar for people taking insulin or sulfonylureas, while overeating can cause sharp spikes in glucose levels. Pay close attention to what you drink. Beverages can be a major source of hidden sugars and calories. Choosing water, sparkling water, or sugar-free drinks can make a substantial difference in blood glucose
threatening emergency called diabetes ketoacidosis. For low-glucose alarms, take fast-acting glucose (such as glucose tabs, 4-6 ounces of juice or regular soda, or a Gvoke HypoPen) to bring up your blood sugar. Should I share my CGM data with my provider? The collaborative relationship between patients and health care providers is crucial for effective diabetes management. Sharing your CGM data with your provider is essential to creating patientcentered treatment plans and tailored lifestyle interventions.
For more information about the programs and services offered by the Mount Sinai South Nassau Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Education Center, call (516) 497-7500 or go to www.mountsinai.org/southnassau.
control. After a holiday meal, try not to sit or lie down for prolonged periods, as this can cause blood sugar to rise. Light movement after eating, such as a walk with a friend or family member, helps improve glucose stability and supports digestion. If you use a CGM, check your readings frequently and monitor how different foods, activities, and schedules affect your blood sugar to make adjustments and stay within a safe range. What should I pack when traveling during the holidays? Pack for the unexpected. Bring extra sensors,
glucose levels for wellness, lifestyle insights, or early
chargers, alcohol wipes, snacks, and hypoglycemic
metabolic trends. Unlike traditional CGMs, Stelo does
treatment options (such as glucose tabs, juice boxes,
not provide real-time alerts for high or low glucose
or a Gvoke HypoPen).
One Healthy Way Oceanside, NY 11572 • 877-SOUTH-NASSAU (877-768-8462) • www.mountsinai.org/southnassau Health memos are supplied by advertisers and are not written by the Herald editorial staff.
21
VALLEY STREAM HERALD — December 25, 2025
Mount Sinai South Nassau is High Performing in Ten Areas of Care.
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mountsinai.org/southnassau
Your HealtH and Wellness — with a focus on diabetes management
Empower your health Diabetes doesn’t have to hold you back Did you know that people with diabetes are two to four times more likely to develop heart disease or have a stroke compared with those who don’t have diabetes — and at a younger age? It’s true. Diabetes is among the strongest risk factors for heart and vascular disease. It’s right up there with smoking and having high blood pressure or high cholesterol. Having diabetes can affect the way your heart works, and harm blood vessels. For example, the lining of the blood vessels may become thicker, which can impair blood flow. Many people have poor blood flow in their legs and feet, which can lead to neuropathy —numbness and weakness. Diabetes can damage other organs as well, including the kidneys. Diabetes and heart disease share many of the same risk factors, such as having high cholesterol, being overweight, not exercising and smoking. Diabetes-heart disease connection Most people with diabetes also have other risk factors for heart disease and stroke that they must manage. Strict control of things such as weight, not smoking and blood sugar is critical. If you have diabetes, it doesn’t mean
heart disease is bound to happen. In many cases, there are steps you can take to keep your diabetes in check and stay ahead of heart disease. But it’s not always easy. If you have or develop heart disease, then you will have to manage several conditions, which can seem daunting. Things you can change to be healthier — your weight, food choices and level of physical activity — are called “modifiable risk factors.” Understanding these factors and working to improve them can help you feel more in control of your health. Below are some tips for managing diabetes while staying heart healthy. Set clear goals for controlling your diabetes and keeping tabs on your health Work with your healthcare team to decide what lifestyle changes you can reasonably make, the appropriate medications, what your ideal level of blood blood glucose level should be, and how to keep your cholesterol and blood pressure within a healthy range. Ask questions if you don’t understand your health care provider’s suggestions for managing your diabetes or other heart risk factors. Your provider might want you to keep track of certain health measures at home; for example, by using home glucose
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or blood pressure monitoring, taking your pulse, or stepping on a scale to record your weight.
up-to-date list of medicine and your goals for care.
Be sure all of your health care providers are on the same page You probably see a number of specialists, including an endocrinologist, ophthalmologist and podiatrist, in addition to your primary care provider. Most folks living with diabetes have other health problems that need to be managed as well. Each provider may order blood work and other tests. Ask that copies of test results and notes from health visits be available to all of your providers so that everyone is on the same page. They should be aware of your conditions, treatments,
Monitor your blood sugar thoroughly based on your provider’s advice The higher your blood sugar level, the higher your risk of heart disease. You and your health care provider should decide on your target A1C level; it may depend on your health conditions and age. A1C gives an estimate of your blood sugar over the past two to three months. Also, make sure you know what to do if your blood sugar is too high or too low.
Photo: Diabetes management involves day-to-day treatment as well as bigger-picture lifestyle decisions.
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VALLEY STREAM HERALD — December 25, 2025
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December 25, 2025 — VALLEY STREAM HERALD
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Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE TO INTERESTED PARTIES CPLR ARTICLE 52 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the undersigned judgment creditor will seek relief pursuant to CPLR Article 52 for judicial completion of an outstanding execution issued on 1/29/2025, relating to the real property located at: 10 Frank Street Valley Stream, NY 11580, County Of Nassau. The execution has been returned partially unsatisfied, and no personal property of the judgment debtor has been identified to satisfy the judgment. The real property referenced above is subject to levy, and no known adverse claimants have appeared of record. Any person or entity asserting an interest in the property, or opposing completion of the execution, must file a written statement of interest with the Supreme Court, Nassau County, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501, on or before: 01/15/2026. Failure to respond may result in the Court proceeding by default and granting relief necessary to complete the execution, including any conveyance or transfer authorized by operation of law, without further notice. Dated: 12/04/2025 The Fitzgerald Living Estate Trust; Address: 80 W. Sunrise Hwy suite 1047, Valley Stream, NY 11581 157064 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWMBS, INC., CHL MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH TRUST, SERIES 2007-18, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-18, Plaintiff, vs. WARREN RICHARD HARTLEY A/K/A WARREN HARTLEY, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 2, 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 January 8, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 968 Bowe Road West a/k/a 968 West Bowe Road, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37, Block 641 and Lot 66. Approximate amount of judgment is $864,783.84 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #610334/2023. Steven E. Losquardo, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 230114-1 157077 Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU FREEDOM MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Plaintiff AGAINST MARVALYN MCKENZIE, DASHAWN DEROSIN, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered July 31, 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 January 6, 2026 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 4 Sheridan Street, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 37 Block 185 Lot 39. Approximate amount of judgment $619,486.41 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #615650/2022. Brian J. Davis, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-003754 87709 157003
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU DLJ MORTGAGE CAPITAL, INC., Plaintiff AGAINST KELVIN GALLOWAY, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 1, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the North Side steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 6, 2026 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 29 Clinton Avenue, Inwood, NY 11096. 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 40, Block 63, Lot 196. Approximate amount of judgment $650,851.82 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #611961/2019. Jane Shrenkel, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 20-003157 87819 157007 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 January 13, 2026 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 157159
LEGAL NOTICE SUPPLEMENTAL FORECLOSURE SUMMONS FOR RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY-SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF NASSAU TD BANK, N.A., Plaintiff, against CHRISTOPHER W. DERVIN, INDIVIDUALLY, AND AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF ROSALIE A. DERVIN, MICHAEL DERVIN AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF ROSALIE A. DERVIN, CYNTHIA CLARKE A/K/A CYNTHIA BISOGNO AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF ROSALIE A. DERVIN, STEPHANIE ANDUJAR AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF ROSALIE A. DERVIN, JACQUELINE ZARRO AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF ROSALIE A. DERVIN, ANY AND ALL OTHER HEIRS TO THE ESTATE OF ROSALIE A. DERVIN, KNOWN OR UNKNOWN, if living, and if they are dead, any and all persons who are husbands, wives, widows, grantees, mortgagees, lienors, heirs, devisees, distributees or successors in interest of each of them, who may be dead, and their respective husbands, wives, heirs, devisees, and successors in interest with respect to the real property being foreclosed and described in the complaint in this action, all of whom, and whose names and residences are unknown to plaintiff, NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, and “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #12”, said names being fictitious, parties intended being possible tenants or occupants of premises, and corporations, other entities or persons who
claim, or may claim, a lien against the premises, DefendantsIndex no. 608445/2025. Plaintiff designates NASSAU County as the place of trial situs of the real property. 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, if the complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a Notice of Appearance, on Plaintiff’s attorneys within 20 days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). In the event the United States of America is made a party defendant, the time to answer for the said United States of America shall not expire until (60) days after service of the Summons. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. Nassau County is designated as the place of trial. The basis of venue is the location of the mortgaged premises. That this Supplemental Summons is being filed pursuant to an order of the court dated November 24, 2025. NOTICE-YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME - If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. HELP FOR
HOMEOWNERS IN FORECLOSURE; New York State Law requires that we send you this notice about the foreclosure process. Please read it carefully. SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT You are in danger of losing your home. If you fail to respond to the summons and complaint in this foreclosure Action, you may lose your home. Please read the summons and complaint carefully. You should immediately contact an attorney of your local legal aid office to obtain advice on how to protect yourself. SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE The State encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure. In addition to seeking assistance from an attorney or legal aid office, there are government agencies and non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about possible options, including trying to work with your lender during this process. To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York State Banking Department at 1-877BANK-NYS (1-877-226-5697) or visit the Department’s website at www.banking.state.ny. us. FORECLOSURE RESCUE SCAMS Be careful of people who approach you with offers to “save” your home. There are individuals who watch for notices of foreclosure actions in order to unfairly profit from a homeowner’s distress. You should be extremely careful about any such promises and any suggestions that you pay them a fee or sign over your deed. State law requires anyone offering such services for profit to enter into a contract which fully describes the services they will perform and fees they will charge, and which prohibits them from taking any money from you until they have completed all such promised services. We are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for that purpose. The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to
an order of the Honorable Jeffrey A. Goodstein, J.S.C. dated November 24, 2025. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage and covering the premises known as 35 Bismark Avenue, Valley Stream, New York 11581, Section 39, Block 20, Lots 302, 303, and 304 Dated: December 10, 2025 Filed: December 10, 2025 DUANE MORRIS LLP., Attorneys for Plaintiff, By: Patrick J. Holston, Esq., 22 Vanderbilt, 335 Madison Avenue, 23rd Flr. New York, NY 10017-4669, +1 215-979-1963. 157353 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE BOARD OF APPEALS Pursuant to New York State Town Law Article 16, New York State Public Officers Law Article 7, and the Town of Hempstead Building Zone Ordinance, NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Town of Hempstead will hold a public hearing in the Town Meeting Pavilion, Town Hall Plaza, One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York on 01/07/2026 at 9:30 A.M. to consider the following applications and appeals: -----------------------------THE FOLLOWING CASES WILL BE CALLED STARTING AT 9:30 A.M. 19/26. NR VALLEY STREAM - 45 Arkansas Drive LLC, Variances, lot area occupied, side yard, side yards aggregate, construct dwelling with exterior cellar stairs attached to dwelling (demolished existing dwelling)., S/s Arkansas Dr., 374.67’ W/o Seaton Pl., a/k/a 45 Arkansas Dr. ALL PAPERS PERTAINING TO THE ABOVE HEARING ARE AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION AT THE BOARD OF APPEALS, TOWN HALL, 1 WASHINGTON STREET, HEMPSTEAD, NY 11550. This notice is only for new cases in Valley Stream within Town of Hempstead jurisdiction. There are additional cases in different hamlets, towns and villages on the Board of Appeals calendar. The full calendar is available at https://hempsteadny.go v/509/Board-of-Appeals The internet address of
the website streaming for this meeting is https://hempsteadny.go v/576/Live-StreamingVideo Interested parties may appear at the above time and place. At the call of the Chairman, the Board will consider decisions on the foregoing and those on the Reserve Decision calendar and such other matters as may properly come before it. 157431 LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU, U.S. BANK TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, AS SUCCESSOR-ININTEREST TO U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE, FOR THE HOLDERS OF THE CIM TRUST 2020-R3, MORTGAGE-BACKED NOTES, SERIES 2020R3, Plaintiff, vs. ALLEN STEVENSON A/K/A ALLEN R. STEVENSON, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on November 7, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps on the north side of the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 28, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 68 Oceanview Avenue, Valley Stream, NY 11581 a/k/a 11580. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Valley Stream, County of Nassau and State of New York, Section 42, Block 270 and Lots 27, 28, 29, 30, & 46. Approximate amount of judgment is $647,543.70 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 616497/2023. Frank M. Scalera, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.:230501-1 157471 Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232
'It felt like something that I wanted to do' learned the pantry’s day-to-day operations under the mentorship of Lourdes Taglialatela, the site’s coordinator at the time. Rojas stocked shelves, monitored food refrigeration, weighed the voluminous donations, and coordinated food-collection efforts with community partners and supporting volunteers. When she was promoted to program center coordinator in September, she assumed the responsibility for overseeing daily operations and volunteers, managing reports, maintaining food safety procedures and ensuring that patrons were welcomed and served efficiently. “The core responsibility is, I feel, to make my community happy and try to help them as best as possible,” Rojas said. “And I think that’s the goal for Long Island Cares as well, that they want to just help the community and help the veterans and help anybody that they can help. “I think that was one of Harry Chapin’s goals in life, being a humanitarian,” she added, referring to the late singer-songwriter who founded the food bank, “and I think that Long Island Cares is doing a remarkable job
VALLEY STREAM HERALD — December 25, 2025
Continued from front
Nichole Rojas at the Valley Stream Long Island Cares pantry, where she was hired as a program associate last year.
at serving the community with food insecurity, the veterans, mobile pantry, all the different aspects of Long Island
Public Notices
LVAL2-2 1225
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NASSAU Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee, for Carrington Home Equity Loan Trust, Series 2005-NC4 Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Plaintiff AGAINST Nicolas Carpio a/k/a Nicholas Carpio; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered December 17, 2013, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the North Side Steps of the Nassau County Supreme Court at 100 Supreme Court Drive, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 26,2026, at 2:00PM, premises known as 2 Fulton Place, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Valley Stream, Town of Hempstead, County of Nassau, State of New York, Section 37 Block N Lots 676 & 677. Approximate amount of judgment $435,801.19 plus interest and costs.
Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine.” Judith L Powell, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792 Dated: December 12, 2025 157477
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court County of Nassau Deutsche Bank National Trust Company as Trustee for Merrill Lynch Mortgage Investors Trust, Mortgage Loan AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2007-MLN1, Plaintiff AGAINST Julia Rosales, et al, Defendant Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on November 18, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, North sides of the steps, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 28, 2026 at 2:00 PM premises known as 78
25
Ormonde Boulevard, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the County of Nassau, State of New York, SECTION: 37, BLOCK: 430, LOT: 350. Approximate amount of judgment is $1,105,507.18 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 613197/2024. For sale information, please visit XOME at www.xome.com or call (844) 400-9633. Brian J. Carmody, Referee FRENKEL LAMBERT WEISS WEISMAN & GORDON LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-099680-F00 88190 157382
LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court County of Nassau Wells Fargo Bank, National Association as Trustee for Securitized Asset Back Receivables LLC 2005-FR5 Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-FR5, Plaintiff AGAINST Anthony J. Graziano, et al, Defendant Pursuant to
a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on September 1, 2016, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Nassau County Supreme Court, 100 Supreme Court Drive, North sides of the steps, Mineola, NY 11501 on January 26, 2026 at 2:30 PM premises known as 41 Higbie Street, Valley Stream, NY 11580. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the County of Nassau, State of New York, SECTION: 37., BLOCK: 574, LOT: 5. Approximate amount of judgment is $531,155.02 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 005364/2013. For sale information, please visit XOME at www.xome.com or call (844) 400-9633. Janine T. Lynam, Referee FRENKEL LAMBERT WEISS WEISMAN & GORDON LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-059283-F00 88021 157378 To Place A Notice Call 516-569-4000 x232
Cares — they’ve really done a great job. And I feel proud working here.” The Valley Stream pantry serves a wide area that includes the village as well as Elmont, Franklin Square, Lynbrook, New Hyde Park, Port Washington and surrounding communities, which, Rojas said, has made it an important access point for families, seniors and veterans experiencing food insecurity. Its role became especially critical in early November, when federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits were temporarily suspended. The pantry experienced shortages, and relied extensively on community donations and warehouse support. In one month, the Valley Stream location received nearly 8,000 pounds of donated food, far exceeding typical monthly totals. Rojas credits residents, Northwell Health, the Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce and other community groups for helping stabilize the pantry during that time. Volunteers who work alongside Rojas say her leadership style is defined by patience, compassion and trust. Janice Lange, a retired New York City teacherlibrarian who began volunteering at the pantry in April, said the environment is consistently welcoming and purposeful. Lange, who taught in Brooklyn for 33 years, grew up in Valley Stream, and described the pantry as a place where she feels useful and appreciated. “She is so patient and welcoming to the clients,” Lange said of Rojas. “Whether they’ve been coming for months, or someone who you know just came in this morning to register, she takes the time to find out what they need. If we have any questions,” she added of the volunteers, “she can always find a good answer for us.” Tony Cannonito, 64, who has lived
Angelina Zingariello/Herald
in Valley Stream since 1962 and retired from a career in sales and management in 2021, began volunteering at the pantry in September 2024. Rojas, he said, holds herself to high standards while empowering volunteers to make meaningful contributions. Cannonito noted that she knows many patrons by name, and makes a point of greeting and thanking volunteers at the end of each shift. “You don’t know what’s going on at home, but they are in a position of food insecurity, which is a major, major, major issue,” Cannonito said of the visitors. “And she makes them feel very welcome when they walk in.” Both volunteers noted the way Rojas navigated the operation through periods of intense demand, including managing large deliveries while maintaining a calm, organized environment for patrons waiting to be served. The most meaningful part of her work, Rojas said, is interacting with the people who rely on the pantry, particularly veterans and families facing sudden hardship. She described the work as emotionally demanding but deeply rewarding, especially when it allows families to put food on the table. Looking ahead, she said she hoped to continue serving Valley Stream, and sees the potential for Long Island Cares to offer additional support services, including deeper case management options. For now, Rojas remains focused on ensuring that the pantry operates smoothly, and remains a welcoming place for anyone in need. Her work reflects a career-long commitment to service — one that has found a natural home at the West Nassau Center for Food Assistance and Community Support.
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EMPLOYMENT Help Wanted CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE Full Time/Part Time Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multi-task, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $16.50 per hour to $20 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: circulationassociate@liherald.com
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Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. H i s t o r i c a l l y, r e p o r t e r s w h o h ave launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16.50 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT Inside Sales Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $34,320 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
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Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $34,320 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250 PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
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Point Lookout
One Amazing Home
Q. Stopping the pour was a good idea. Admixtures can make things worse, based on the following. Cold moisture, whether from tidal action, a high water table or air temperature, is always a concern. There are three important factors in concrete: water, air temperature and internal and external movement. Cool water expands. Cooler internal moisture can reduce the strength of the concrete, because it expands and sets molecules farther apart. That changes the reactions of the ingredients. A. Concrete is made up of sand, Portland cement — super-heated limestone that converts to calcium carbonate — and stones called aggregate. Setup is often thought of as drying, which is a misconception. Concrete setup is a chemical process of internal reactions, and those reactions give off heat. The reason that people standing in onte eeper fresh cement are wearing boots isn’t just to keep their ankles clean. Their rubber boots act as insulators, to keep them from direct skin contact and third-degree burns caused by highly alkaline calcium hydroxide in the cement and the heat developed during the pour. The heat is called the “heat of hydration.” That process is necessary to get the concrete to harden properly. Introducing too much cold slows the chemical process and weakens the concrete. It minimizes the ultimate strength, so internal expansion is the first issue. A wet condition from moisture condensation is the second problem, because when the air temperature drops, condensation increases in the adjacent ground and in the cement mixture, slowing the setup process and increasing the lack of ability to give off moisture and heat during the chemical reaction. Think of it like taking bread out of the oven too early. The bread will be dense and wet. And last, high alkalinity is increased by using “antifreeze” calcium carbonate, which causes reinforcing rods in the concrete mixture to corrode and continue to rust out, unseen, until there is very little left. The admixture chemical reaction to the reinforcing rods is interesting, because few people realize that rusting steel doesn’t first reduce; it expands, placing a lot of internal force on the concrete, causing cracking. Then the rods leach and reduce in size and strength, causing more concrete cracking. I don’t recommend the additive in your case. Good luck!
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Thomas A. Hug Licensed Real Estate Broker/Owner • 516-835-6503 Marian M. Hug Licensed Sales Broker • 516-835-5838 Frankie Hug Licensed Real Estate Salesperson • 516-698-9072 HUG Real Estate 17 Lido Blvd, Point Lookout, NY 11569
Rooms For Rent WEST HEMPSTEAD: 2ND Floor, Share K i t c h e n / B a t h . N o S m o k i n g / Pe t s . $ 1 , 0 0 0 / M o. + $ 6 0 / M o. E l e c t r i c . 516-444-7385
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© 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., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
VALLEY STREAM HERALD — December 25, 2025
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The box at the far left side of the page is call Dianne Ramdass, called the masthead. It contains the newspacirculation manager, at ext. 231. per’s flag, or nameplate. The masthead offers important information about the paper, including the names of the staff members who are responsible for producing it each week. Publisher Stuart Richner guides the business and news operations of the 23 newspapers in the Herald Community Newspapers group. This includes the Nassau Herald, which 26 Office serves the Five Towns, as well as Heralds for Baldwin 2 Endo Boulevard Baldwin, Bellmore, East Meadow, Franklin Garden City, NY 11530 Square/Elmont, Freeport, Glen Cove, Long Established 1994 Phone: (516) 569-4000 Incorporating the Beach, Lynbrook/East Rockaway, MalverneFax: (516) 569-4942 The South Shore Reporter and Web: www.liherald.com West Hempstead, Merrick, Oceanside-Island The Baldwin Citizen in 2013 E-mail: editor@liherald.com Hernesto Galdamez Park, Oyster Bay, Rockville Centre, Sea CliffCopyright Editor© 2025 Glen Head, Seaford, Uniondale, Valley Stream rHonda Glickman Inc. Richner Communications, Vice President - Sales and Wantagh. he United States has long prided office Each paper’s editor is responsible for the HERALD 2 Endo Boulevard itself on being a nation in which Garden City,NEWSPAPERS NY 11530 COMMUNITY assignment, selection and placement of stopolitical differences are aired by Phone:Cliff (516) 569-4000 Richner ries, most of which the editors and reporters way of ballots, not bullets. In Fax: (516)1982-2018 569-4942 Publisher, write. Managing Editor Jeffrey Bessen oversees Web: www.liherald.com recent years, however, violence has too Robert Richner E-mail: baldwineditor@liherald.com news operations for all the papers in the often invaded our public square, shatEdith Richner Copyright © 2025 tering lives, feeding a general atmogroup. Publishers, 1964-1987Inc. Richner Communications, sphere of fear and distrust, and under■ The production department is responsible mining the democratic ideals we claim STUART RicHNeR HERALD for the papers’ general design. The advertising COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS Publisher to cherish. and art departments produce the large, oftenCliff Richner ■ As we count down to Election Day on illustrated display advertisements that appear Publisher, 1982-2018 Nov. 4, we must recommit to the princiJeffRey BeSSeN Robert Richner throughout the papers. The classified departManaging Editor ple that civil political discourse — not Edith Richner ment produces the smaller advertisements at Publishers, JORdAN 1964-1987 VAllONe intimidation, assault or bloodshed — is Deputy Managing Editor ■ the back of the papers. the only legitimate path forward. stUart ricHner Jim HARmON The masthead also lists each paper’s age, Consider the troubling list of recent Publisher Copy Editor the names of its founders, its address, email, events. On Jan. 6, 2021, rioters stormed ■ KAReN BlOOm the U.S. Capitol, brutally attacking and telephone and fax numbers, and provides Jeffrey Bessen Features/Special Sections Editor Managing Editor police officers in an effort to halt the notice that all contents of the paper are copyTONy BelliSSimO Jordan Vallone peaceful transfer of power to then PresiSports Editor righted. Deputy Managing Editor
Editorial page
HERALD
Herald editorial
HERALD
September 18, 2025 — BALDWIN HERALD
December 25, 2025 — VALLEY STREAM HERALD
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Our disagreements must stop at debate
t
TimHarmon BAKeR Jim Photo Editor Copy Editor
Editorial comment Editorials offer the opinions of the Herald. Editors write them, but they do not necessarily reflect the views of those writers. Rather, they are the institutional voice of the news organization. That is why they are unsigned. Herald editorial department heads meet regularly to plan the editorials. Independent reporting by our staff often helps inform our editorials. We might also speak with experts and advocates to gain their perspective before writing an editorial. We are proud to say that we have won many state awards for our editorial writing over the years. But in the end, it's sharing opinions that best reflect the views of you — our reader — that is most important to us.
Editorial cartoon
Editorial cartoons are almost as old as newspapers themselves. They date back to 18th-century England, and are a staple of the modern American opinion section. Yet opinions here do not necessarily represent the opinions of the Herald or its staff. Dale Neseman, a syndicated cartoonist from the Buffalo area, creates a majority of the editorial cartoons seen in these pages.
karen■ Bloom Features/Special Sections Editor RHONdA GlicKmAN tony Bellissimo Vice President - Sales Sports Editor Amy AmATO tim Baker Executive Director of Photo Editor Corporate Relations and Events ■ lORi BeRGeR rHonda Glickman Director ViceSales President - Sales elleN amyReyNOldS amato Classified / Inside SalesofDirector Executive Director Corporate Relations ■ and Events
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dent-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
CArolyn JAMes
BEAcoN Associate Publisher
CArolyn JAMes
BALDWIN Reporter
Allyson FerrAri
BELLMorE Editor
hernesto GAldAMez
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.
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 property-tax regime, its failed bus patrol tax, its Nassau University Medical Center mess nor wasteful
HERALD HERALD HERALD HERALD HERALD rEcorD Associate Publisher
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
EAst MEADoW
FrANkLIN squArE/ELMoNt
Deputy Managing Editor
Deputy Managing Editor
JordAn VAllone
HERALD JordAn VAllone
FrEEport
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LoNg BEAch
HERALD HERALD HERALD Senior Reporter
MohAMMAd rAFiQ
Editor
roksAnA AMid
Editor
Chris ColuCCi
LyNBrook/EAst rockAWAy
HERALD Editor
Ainsley MArtinez
MALvErNE/WEst hEMpstEAD
HERALD Senior Reporter
MAdison Gusler
Opinion columns
Opinion pages 27
opinions
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s most Long Islanders know, affordability, at its heart, is about what families experience every day. It’s a child starting the school day with a full stomach, a parent relieved of crushing child care costs, a college student able to pursue a career without sinking into debt. This is the kind of state New Yorkers deserve, one where families can live with dignity and plan with confidence. That’s why I have worked to put affordability at the center of my priorities. sieLa As the academic year begins, I’m BYnoe reminded of the past, when parents couldn’t afford to provide lunch or give their children lunch money each day. No parent should have to carry that stress, and no child should sit in class hungry. Alongside my colleagues in the Senate, I fought to secure $340 million in the state budget to make breakfast and lunch free for every student in New York, regardless of their family’s income, so all
young scholars can eat with dignity. Affordability also means giving young children the strongest possible start without risking the family’s financial security. That’s why I voted in favor of $1.2 billion in universal pre-kindergarten funding to continue our efforts to prepare children for their education and nurture their social, emotional and academic skills. I also collaborated with my fellow senators for the allocation of $112 million for afterschool programs, which bolster academic programming and offer enrichment opportunities. This saves families thousands on child care costs, while building the foundation children need to thrive. In that same vein, I fought for new and increased aid to school districts across Senate District 6 totaling $53.2 million, minimizing the need to raise residents’ property taxes. These funds help cover academic activities, transportation, supportive services and more, making sure that all students have the tools they need to succeed. Worries about affordability also show up in everyday moments like getting
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ven preparing children for the return to school can be a source of major worry.
Letters 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 d r ive - t h ro u g h eve n t , ve t e r a n s 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 massaPequa
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 wellbeing 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 understanding 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. DAVID LYONS Interim president and chief operating officer, PSEG Long Island
HERALD HERALD HERALD POst Associate Publisher
carolyn JaMes
merrick Editor
hernesto galdaMeZ
children ready for the return to school. This summer I worked with a variety of community partners and stakeholders to offer backpack giveaway events throughout the district. At one such event, in partnership with Nassau County Legislator Olena Nicks and North Hempstead Councilman Robert Troiano, along with the Nassau County Police Benevolent Association, we gave away more than 800 backpacks filled with school supplies to students from the district. These initiatives, aimed at easing the financial burden on parents as the academic year begins, do more than help families prepare. They also send a message that members of our community are willing to extend a helping hand to one another. The need for affordable education doesn’t end in childhood, which is why my fellow senators and I invested $47 million statewide to make community college free for students ages 25 to 55 who are pursuing high-demand careers such as teaching, engineering and nursing. Affordability and sustainability can and should go hand in hand. The rising
Nassau
Senior Reporter
Melissa BerMan
OceaNside/islaNd Park
HERALD Reporter
aBigail grieco
cost of water and its finite existence led me to sponsor Senate Bill S.4988, and secure $150,000 in the state budget to launch a rebate program in Nassau and Suffolk counties for families who install smart-irrigation devices. These systems save water, reduce bills and help protect the environment that we’ll pass on to the next generation. When it comes to health care, the high cost of prescription drugs has put necessary medications out of reach for too many New Yorkers. To address this concern, the Senate passed the New York Affordable Drug Manufacturing Act, offering a practical solution by empowering the state to partner in the production of generic drugs specifically to drive down prices. This bill targets highcost and at-risk medications like insulin, ensuring affordability and availability. Affordability can’t simply be a talking point. It must be embodied in legislation and budget allocations. Whether it’s fighting for free meals, expanding pre-K, making college accessible or supporting families with basic school supplies, I will continue to advocate for programming and policies that make life more affordable for everyone.
BALDWIN HERALD — September 18, 2025
Affordability can’t just be a talking point
We publish three columns in each edition of the Herald every week. Columns represent the views of the writers, not of the Herald. Each writer works independently and chooses his or her own subjects. Among our regular contributors are former U.S. Rep. Peter King, former State Assemblyman Jerry Kremer and the Nassau Herald’s former executive editor, Randi Kreiss. We also feature columns by a wide variety of elected leaders — local, county, state and federal — on a rotating basis. And we regularly invite guest columnists who are not involved in politics — including members of our editorial staff — to offer their views.
Special features The op-ed, or opposite the editorial, page features a weekly Framework photo, which is chosen by our photo editor, Tim Baker. The Framework offers a creative, at times humorous outlet for our photography staff. In this spot, we also publish photos sent to us by readers featuring them on vacation, reading the Herald at international landmarks. We call it Herald Around the World. At times, a correction might appear on the op-ed page. We strive each week for the highest standards of accuracy and accountability. When we make mistakes in our reporting, we believe we must own up to them and correct the record.
Siela Bynoe represents the 6th State Senate District.
Framework by Tim Baker
Letters to the editor
At the Town of Hempstead sunrise Sept. 11 memorial service — Town Park Point Lookout
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We welcome your letters to the editor, and publish most that we receive. We believe these letters are critically important, because they reflect the shared voices of the communities that we cover. Letters should be 250 to 300 words in length. Each letter must include an address and phone number. Our editors call all letter writers to confirm the authenticity of letters before publication. We edit letters for length, grammar, spelling and foul language. We do not censor viewpoints. If we believe a letter requires major revisions, we will send it back to the writer and ask that he or she change it so that meaning and intent are not lost. Readers can send letters to the editors of their hometown newspapers, or to execeditor@liherald.com. They can be sent by email (preferred), fax or mail. All contact information is listed on the masthead and on our website, LIHerald.com.
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VALLEY STREAM HERALD — December 25, 2025
What are the editorial pages all about? Who writes editorials? How do letters and guest columns get published? This week’s pages offer some answers to our readers. We thank The Riverdale Press and The Seattle Times for the idea.
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