Valley Stream Herald

08/01/2024

The LI Herald is looking to interview a grade-school student in our coverage area (kindergarten to 12th grade) for a back-to-school segment in the paper! 🏫

The question is: What are your "must have's" for going back to school? 📓✏️

Please comment below if interested.

07/06/2024

🚒🔥 Valley Stream was on fire with excitement 🔥🚒

Nassau County's largest firefighter parade featured over 40 fire departments, 20 marching bands, and 130+ fire vehicles. Over 1,000 firefighters marched from East Dover Avenue to the Village Green, showcasing their dedication and unity.

Special shoutout to the Nassau County Firefighters Pipes & Drums of Valley Stream for winning 3rd place in the best musical unit category and to the Freeport Fire Department for clinching the overall performance champion title! 🏆🎶

This 120-year-old tradition coincided with the Valley Stream Volunteer Fire Department's celebration of Engine No. 4’s 100th anniversary. The festivities wrapped up with a rocking concert by “Decadia.”

Thank you, Valley Stream, for coming out and cheering on the heroes! 🚒❤️
https://www.liherald.com/eastmeadow/stories/valley-stream-nassau-county-firefighters-parade-2024,208673

06/19/2024

Over 100 students at Valley Stream South High School went to school for months without required vaccinations, according to a school staff email, raising serious public health concerns. Principal Matthew Swinson and nurse Magee Sterlin have urged parents to provide proof of vaccination or a confirmed appointment by May 1.

State law mandates that unvaccinated students be excluded from school to prevent the spread of diseases like hepatitis B, measles, mumps, and rubella. Declining vaccination rates threaten herd immunity, making our community vulnerable to outbreaks.

Health experts stress the importance of vaccines and urge parents to dismiss unfounded fears. “The long-term risks of not getting vaccinated are significant,” warns Dr. Jonathan Garellek from Northwell Health. 🌟💉

Over 100 Valley Stream South High School students went to school this year without being fully vaccinated with “one, some, or all” state-mandated immunizations. Those were the …

06/18/2024

The village streets were alive with a breathtaking Eucharistic Procession led by
Blessed Sacrament Church. Dozens participated, garbed in flowing vestments of white and red, holding candles, and accompanied by the stirring sounds of snares and horns.

This sacred tradition, founded in 1264 by Pope Urban IV, serves as a profound and powerful public declaration of faith. "It is a public act of adoration and praise to the Lord, who offered us His body and blood as a great sign of His unconditional love,” said Reverend Father Lawrence Onyegu.

The procession also marked the unveiling of the Blessed Sacrament Perpetual Adoration Chapel, provides a place of solace and prayer, where the Blessed Sacrament is exposed for all Catholics to come, adore, and pray.

https://www.liherald.com/stories/see-photos-valley-stream-blessed-sacrament-eucharistic-procession-and-chapel-unveiling-draws-a,208315

06/14/2024

Fourth of July is almost here! The L.I Herald wants your opinion: Outside of politics, how does patriotism play a role in celebrating?

06/14/2024

Nominate Today for the HERALD Excellence in Healthcare Awards!

Do you know a doctor or nurse with a heart of gold? A medical professor who goes above and beyond? A first responder on the front line? It's time to recognize those exceptional individuals and organizations making a significant impact in the healthcare industry!

The HERALD Excellence in Healthcare Awards Gala is approaching, and we need your help to celebrate the heroes among us. Whether it’s a dedicated professional, an outstanding hospital, or a company making strides in medical innovation, we want to hear about it!

Visit RichnerLIVE.com/NOMINATE

06/11/2024

Fourth of July is almost here! The Valley Stream Herald wants your opinion: how does patriotism play a role in celebrating?

05/24/2024

📢 The votes have been counted and the results are in. 📢

In case you missed it, here are the key outcomes of our recent school board elections and budget approvals. Here are the key outcomes:

Budget Approvals:
🎓 District 24:

$39.3 million budget (1.7% tax levy increase) passed with 390-116 votes.
🎓 District 30:

$48.2 million budget (no tax levy increase) passed with 253-101 votes.
🎓 Central High School District:

$161.54 million budget (1% tax levy increase) passed with 1,367-727 votes.
🎓 District 13:

$674.4 million budget (less than 1% tax levy increase) passed with 793-455 votes.
New School Board Trustees:
🌟 District 24:

Alisa Clark defeated Erika Vasquez and Annette Matthews, succeeding Donna LaRocco.
🌟 District 13:

Andrew Sgro won against Jaianti Singh, and Sarah Sabatino defeated incumbent Anthony Bonelli.
🌟 District 30:

Incumbent board president Kelly Ureña ran unopposed.
Proposition Approvals:
📊 District 24:

$1.2 million for air-conditioning, fire alarm upgrades, and door holds.
Additional funds for school facility repairs and reconstructions.
📊 District 13:

$700,000 for cybersecurity enhancements and security technology upgrades.
📊 District 30:

$6.5 million for a new gymnasium, playground equipment, and security vestibules.
📊 Central High School District:

$2.5 million for maintenance garage renovations and a construction trades facility.
Up to $1.2 million for replacing gymnasium windows and operating systems at multiple schools.

The spending plans at Valley Stream school districts received wide approval this year. Among those passing were District 24’s $39.3 million budget with its 1.7 percent tax levy …

05/23/2024

🎼✨ Valley Stream Central High's Dream Performance at Carnegie Hall! 🎻🎤

The dream of every musician came true for the best student musicians at Valley Stream Central High School District when they took the stage at the iconic Stern Auditorium in Carnegie Hall! On April 4, the hall was alive with the sounds of our talented students during the 66th Annual Music Scholarship Festival.

🌟 Highlights:

A Magical Night: Students from the orchestra, chorus, band, and performing arts group performed in an evening that was nothing short of magical. The pristine acoustics of Carnegie Hall created a rich, warm soundscape that left both performers and the audience in awe.
Scholarship Winners: Congratulations to Tinatin Narimanidze (Central High School), Layla Rutledge (North High School), and Christian Crawford (South High School) for receiving music scholarships!
Unforgettable Experience: Conductors and students alike were thrilled to perform on such a historic stage. The event showcased the hard work and dedication of our young musicians and their teachers.
📣 Hear from the Stars:

Tinatin Narimanidze: "When we played a whole piece through during the soundcheck, the sound reverberated out... It was magical."
Christian Crawford: "Hearing how beautiful all of our voices sound as one unified voice... everybody’s dream came to life."
Layla Rutledge: "Some of the pieces we played were written by composers who’ve conducted at Carnegie Hall. It gave me goosebumps!"



For the full story and more insights, read the complete article below.
https://www.liherald.com/stories/when-valley-stream-central-high-school-district-students-take-center-stage-at-carnegie-hall,207867

05/04/2024

🚨 Brooklyn Man Arrested in Connection with Alleged Scam Targeting Elderly Victim 🚨

A Brooklyn man has been arrested in connection with an alleged scam that targeted a 94-year-old man, causing concern among residents. According to police, the victim received a call from someone claiming to represent Publishers Clearing House, promising a cash prize.

The victim complied with demands to pay taxes upfront, issuing cashier's checks totaling nearly $250,000. After realizing the deception, the victim contacted authorities, leading to the arrest of Jamario Smellie, 27, who now faces charges of grand larceny. Nassau County Police urge residents to remain vigilant against scams and report any information to Nassau County Crime Stoppers at (1-800) 244-8477 or call 911. All callers will remain anonymous. 🕵️‍♂️

A Brooklyn man was arrested for allegedly defrauding a 94-year-old Valley Stream man out of $250,000 in a Publishers Clearing House scam.

05/03/2024

🌟 Central Memorial PTSA Hosts Spectacular Fashion Show Fundraiser 🌟

The Veterans of Foreign Wars VFW was transformed into a dazzling runway on April 12, as the Central Memorial Parent-Teacher-Student Association (PTSA) orchestrated a show-stopping fashion extravaganza. Led by PresidentDelia Torres-Crespo, the student-led showcase drew an impressive crowd, with guests eagerly lining up for a glimpse of the glamorous event.

More than just a glamorous affair, the fundraiser served as a vital revenue source for scholarship funds benefiting graduating seniors at Central High School and incoming 9th graders from Memorial Junior High School. Thanks to the steadfast support of the Post, the sold-out show raised significant contributions for these deserving students.

The four-hour spectacle featured not only stunning fashion displays but also captivating performances by Central High School dancers and a talented 8th-grade singer from Memorial. Each moment was meticulously curated, with student models strutting the runway in a diverse array of stylish ensembles.

From elegant gowns to vintage-inspired attire, the fashion show showcased a delightful blend of timeless and contemporary fashion. Central senior Julio Rivera, one of the fourteen student models, described the experience as "absolutely amazing," relishing the opportunity to showcase three distinct outfits.

Rivera's wardrobe reflected a rich tapestry of themes, from casual Salvadorean roots to 1920s-inspired elegance. His personal favorite—a pristine burgundy tuxedo—captured the essence of formal sophistication and garnered admiration from the audience.

The success of the fashion show would not have been possible without the support of local businesses like Murlee's Men's and Boy's Wear in Lynbrook, noted Crespo. Despite the exhaustive efforts of the fashion show committee, the anticipation for next year's event is already building, with plans underway for an exciting Class of 2025 theme.

https://liherald.com/valleystream/stories/valley-streams-central-memorial-ptsa-fashion-show-wows-with-vintage-flair,207507

05/02/2024

🌟 Community Comes Together to Support Homeless Veterans 🌟

Transitioning back to civilian life is a challenging journey for our military service members, and finding stable housing is a crucial part of that process. Despite a national decline in veteran homelessness, our veterans still face a disproportionate risk of ending up on the streets or in shelters.

Local veteran advocates have highlighted the harsh reality that many homeless veterans live in poverty, struggling to access basic necessities like toiletries. Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce member Lauri LoQuerico was moved to action, rallying support from multiple village and veteran organizations to host a month-long toiletry drive.

At the formal kickoff event, where Wheeler Elementary School students, alongside their principal Ruth Peets-Butcher, proudly presented their collected items to representatives from the Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce and Disabled American Veterans.

Students across the village are leading the charge in this endeavor, with schools like Valley Stream Central and Memorial Junior High School actively participating in the drive.

https://www.liherald.com/valleystream/stories/valley-stream-chamber-of-commerce-heads-toiletry-drive-for-homeless-veterans,207503

04/18/2024

🏊‍♀️💪 Empowering Female Athletes: Olympic Gold Medalist Samantha Arsenault Livingstone Shares Mental Health Journey 💪🏊‍♀️

Female athletes in the Valley Stream Central High School District were recently inspired by a visit from Olympic gold medalist swimmer Samantha Arsenault Livingstone. 🥇🌟

Livingstone courageously shared her personal journey, emphasizing the importance of mental health and self-care, especially in the midst of demanding schedules. She opened up about her own struggles with mental health, including suicidal ideation, following her gold-medal win at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. 💔

It wasn't until she sought professional help that Livingstone experienced a profound shift in perspective and found inner strength, leading to both improved well-being and athletic performance. 💖

Organized in partnership with the student mental health nonprofit , the event featured mindfulness exercises and group discussions aimed at encouraging student athletes to reflect on and address factors impacting their mental health. 🗣️

Female athletes in the Valley Stream Central High School District were recently treated to a special visit by Olympic gold medalist swimmer Samantha Arsenault Livingstone. The visit highlighted the …

04/17/2024

On April 5, thousands across the region felt the tremors of one of the strongest earthquakes on the East Coast since 2011. 🌍🔥

A preliminary report by USGS revealed a 4.8 magnitude earthquake near Lebanon, New Jersey, followed by a 2.0 aftershock. The quake, along the Ramapo faultline, sent ripples of light to moderate shaking throughout the area, including in Valley Stream. Residents took to social media to share their experiences, with reactions ranging from amusement to concern. 😲🏠

Despite the jolt, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman assured residents of no significant damages or casualties. Multiple facilities and organizations were swiftly mobilized to assess the situation and ensure safety across the region. 🏥🚒

Governor Kathy Hochul and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand pledged support and resources for affected communities, emphasizing preparedness and vigilance. The United States Geological Survey affirmed the rarity of such events on the East Coast but cautioned residents to remain alert for potential aftershocks. 📢🛑

One of the strongest earthquakes on the East Coast since 2011 was felt by thousands of people throughout the entire region on April 5. A preliminary report by USGS states that there was a 4.8 …

04/16/2024

📰 Valley Stream's Annual Reorganization Meeting: New Leaders Take Office 🏛️🌟

Valley Stream came together on April 1 for its annual reorganization meeting, a pivotal event in local governance. The gathering saw the formal installation of recently elected officials to the board of trustees and a reshuffling of key village government roles. 🗳️👥

Political veterans John Tufarelli and Sean Wright were sworn in as village trustees, securing their positions for another four years. Tufarelli, also appointed deputy mayor for another term, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue serving the community. Wright, acknowledging the hard work and dedication of supporters, vowed to uphold the trust placed in him. 🤝🌟

The village of Valley Stream held its annual reorganization meeting on April 1 to formally install its newly elected officers to the board of trustees as well as reshuffle and renew village …

04/15/2024

📢 Addressing Diversity in Education: A Call to Action 📚

Local education policy experts have long voiced concerns over the lack of diversity among Long Island's teaching staff, despite the region's increasingly ethnically and racially diverse student population. 💼🎓

Valley Stream School District Twenty-Four Superintendent Unal Karakas is taking proactive steps to address this issue head-on. With roughly 87% of students being students of color, Karakas recognizes the urgent need for a teaching staff that reflects the diversity of the community. 🌟

Karakas is pioneering innovative recruitment strategies, such as personally attending a career recruitment fair at Howard University, to actively engage with potential minority candidates. 🎓💼 His goal? To expand the recruitment candidate pool and showcase the district's commitment to diversity and inclusion. ✨

But recruitment is only half the battle. Education experts emphasize the importance of retention, highlighting the need for inclusive work environments where minority teachers feel supported and valued. 🌈💼

See how Valley Stream District 24 Superintendent Unal Karakas addresses diversity in education, recruitment strategies, and retention of minority teachers, starting with his trip to Howard University.

04/15/2024

🌞✨ Valley Stream's Solar Eclipse Spectacle ✨🌞

Valley Stream residents, did you catch the celestial event of the year? 🌑🌍 On Monday, the moon danced in front of the sun, casting its shadow across North America, and Valley Streamers were ready for the show! 🎉

Jeanette Azzaretto, Science Department Chair at Valley Stream South High School, led the charge in organizing an unforgettable viewing party on the football field bleachers. From lawn chairs to beach towels, locals gathered in awe, peering up at the breathtaking sight of the eclipse. 🌌🔭

But it wasn't just about gazing skyward—Valley Streamers turned this event into an educational extravaganza! 📚✏️ At South High School, students and teachers alike immersed themselves in eclipse-themed activities, from poster displays to a solar eclipse video contest. 🌟🎥

For many, like South High junior Laiba Ismail, witnessing the eclipse was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 🌟 She described it as a "core memory," and astronomy buffs couldn't agree more.💫
https://liherald.com/stories/solar-eclipse-2024-valley-stream-villagers-gather-for-a-historic-lesson-in-astronomy,207204?

04/11/2024

🌟 Honoring Excellence: Congratulations to Noreen Carro, named Person of the Year by the Valley Stream Republican Club! 🌟

At the recent ceremony on March 15, the Valley Stream community came together to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Noreen Carro, co-owner of LMN Printing and a lifelong resident of Valley Stream.

Carro's journey is a testament to resilience and hard work. From humble beginnings, her family built LMN Printing from the ground up, overcoming challenges and setbacks along the way. Today, their printing company stands as a beacon of quality and reliability, serving clients both large and small.

But Carro's contributions extend beyond business success. As a leader in the Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce and the John F. Kennedy Chamber of Commerce, she has fostered connections and mentored aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women and minorities, paving the way for future generations of leaders.

Despite the hurdles she's faced, Carro remains steadfast in her dedication to her community and her business. Her enduring legacy in Valley Stream is a testament to her unwavering commitment and resilience.

Join us in congratulating Noreen Carro on this well-deserved honor! 🎉

https://www.liherald.com/stories/this-printing-powerhouse-is-the-2024-valley-stream-republican-person-of-the-year,206886

03/23/2024

📣🍎 Valley Stream's Annual Legislative Breakfast: A Dialogue for Educational Progress 🍎📣

Valley Stream families and students came together on March 9 for a crucial conversation at the Valley Stream Legislative Breakfast, hosted by the Valley Stream Council of PTAs. It was a rare opportunity for residents to engage directly with local leaders on pressing education matters as we move into the new year.

Assemblyman Brian Curran, State Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, and Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages joined as panelists. From universal pre-K expansion to supporting culturally sensitive teaching and transitioning special education students into adult life, the discussion spanned vital topics affecting the community.

Superintendent Unal Karakas spoke passionately, advocating for policy reforms to enhance education quality, including securing permanent funding for the federal free meals program and revamping teacher evaluations to be less test-score-centric.

However, one issue loomed large over all others: the state aid funding formula. Governor Kathy Hochul's proposal to alter the "save harmless" provision has sparked debate.

The potential impact is significant. While some districts may weather the changes better than others, the consensus among lawmakers and educators is clear: a more comprehensive, inclusive approach to reform is needed.


https://www.liherald.com/stories/the-future-of-school-funding-in-focus-at-valley-stream-leadership-breakfast,206638

03/22/2024

Spring has sprung🌸 The Herald wants to know: What is your spring cleaning ritual?

Comment below!

03/15/2024

🏥 Long Island Jewish Valley Stream Hospital: A New Chapter Begins 🏥

After months of negotiations, Long Island Jewish Valley Stream Hospital nurses and administrators have reached a new labor contract, averting a potential full-scale walkout on Feb. 21. The marathon bargaining session between the New York Nurses Association (NYSNA) and Northwell Health resulted in an agreement that addresses key concerns raised by nurses, including safe staffing, employee benefits, and wages.

Northwell expressed satisfaction with the agreement, emphasizing its commitment to providing world-class care and supporting its dedicated nursing staff. The contract includes competitive compensation and benefits, along with improvements to patient-to-nurse staffing ratios, a crucial aspect of nurse advocacy.

The agreement, approved by over two-thirds of nurses, includes an average wage increase of 19.3 percent over three years, with additional pay tied to experience. Importantly, the contract also enhances safe staffing standards and expedites the resolution process for staffing grievances.

Sandra Marion-Armstrong, a registered nurse and negotiator, highlighted the challenging working conditions faced by nurses, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, she expressed optimism about the new contract's potential to retain and attract experienced nurses, ultimately benefiting patient care.

After months of haggling, Long Island Jewish Valley Stream Hospital nurses and hospital administrators agreed to a new labor contract, sidestepping a potential full-scale walkout on Feb. 21. …

03/14/2024

🗳️ Valley Stream Village Election: Meet the Candidates 🗳️

With two at-large trustee seats up for grabs in this month's village election, the competition is heating up. Incumbents John Tufarelli and Sean Wright from the United Community Party are facing off against Achieve Party challenger Anthony Bonelli.

In this three-way race, the top two vote-getters on March 19 will secure their spots at Village Hall. To get the scoop on each candidate, check out the link:

Two at-large trustee seats are on the ballot at this month’s village election. Village trustee incumbents John Tufarelli and Sean Wright of the United Community Party seek to retain their seats …

03/13/2024

Meet Alyssa Santiago, a 17-year-old senior at Valley Stream Central High School, whose remarkable achievements both on and off the soccer field have turned heads.

Alyssa's soccer journey began with a hint of reluctance, but it quickly transformed into a deep-seated passion. "I didn't really want to play soccer at first," she admits. "But my parents encouraged me to give it a try, and I ended up falling in love with the sport."

Her dedication and talent haven't gone unnoticed. Recently, Alyssa earned a dual scholarship for academics and athletics to Mercy University. But her path to success wasn't without effort. Starting the recruiting process in ninth grade, Alyssa worked closely with her club team, school team, and Mercy's coaching staff to showcase her skills.

"They came out to watch me play, and I made sure to keep communication open," Alyssa explains. "It took persistence, but eventually, I earned the scholarship and committed to Mercy University."

Beyond soccer, Alyssa keeps a busy schedule with flag football and various extracurricular activities like the Eagle TV Club and Yearbook Club. Academically, she plans to major in Business Administration and Marketing, demonstrating her commitment to both her studies and athletics.

Throughout her journey, Alyssa credits her high school varsity coach, Steven Sharkey, for his guidance and support. His mentorship has been instrumental in shaping her into the athlete and individual she is today.

https://www.liherald.com/valleystream/stories/this-valley-stream-central-senior-scores-dual-scholarship,206560

03/13/2024

The mental health challenges facing youth today are more pressing than ever. But amidst these challenges, there are people like Alicia Tritschler, a 15-year-old Girl Scout from Lynbrook Troop 2168, who's stepping up to make a difference.

Alicia recognized the impact of social media and the pandemic on her peers' mental well-being and decided to take action. Her Silver Award project, a Positivity Board, is a beacon of light in a sometimes dark world. 🌈

The board invited patrons at the Waldinger Memorial Library to tack on a Post-It note with words of self-worth and confidence. With a QR code linking to a Kahoot game, she's helped her peers understand stress and its impact on mental health.

Alicia's efforts haven't gone unnoticed. From her local library to a national Girl Scout event, her message of hope has resonated far and wide. Nurses, troop leaders, and countless others have been inspired to spread positivity in their own communities. 🙏

The acute mental health challenges of children and teens, borne out by ballooning rates of anxiety and depression, are a reality universally acknowledged by mental health experts. Girl Scout Alicia …

02/29/2024

In a community where some students face acute learning challenges, Principal Danielle Williams of the Valley Stream Central High School District has been a beacon of hope, guiding students toward academic success through the Twilight Alternative Program.

This non-traditional education initiative offers a night high school option for over-aged and under-credited students who have struggled in traditional settings. Under Williams' leadership, the program has not only prevented dropouts but has also transformed lives, providing students with a second chance to earn their high school diploma.

For her unwavering dedication to alternative education and commitment to student success, Williams will be honored with the prestigious Nassau BOCES Education Partner Award. This accolade recognizes her significant contributions to public education in Nassau County and her efforts to empower students to achieve their full potential.

Join us in congratulating Principal Danielle Williams on this well-deserved recognition! 🎉🏆

Acute learning challenges, ranging from a difficult home life to homelessness, are among the reasons why, in any given year, a minority of students in the Valley Stream Central High School District …

02/28/2024

The search for an assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction in Valley Stream District 13 has hit a bump in the road, with attempts to fill the role with internal candidates failing to gain board approval.

After a proposed plan to divide the position into two new roles was met with skepticism from trustees and community members alike, the district has decided to reassess its strategy and seek outside talent for the position.

Moving forward, the district is conducting a deliberate search for external candidates to fill the assistant superintendent role, aiming to have a replacement in place by March 26. Get the full scope in the article below:

Valley Stream District 13 is still without an assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction following the abrupt Dec. 19 resignation of Fabayo McIntosh. But picking her replacement, or …

02/28/2024

Longtime former Valley Stream resident and artist Steve Breslow recently showcased 41 of his captivating pieces at the Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library. Titled "Recent Prints and Drawings," the exhibit offers a mesmerizing glimpse into Breslow's creative journey leading up to the pandemic. 🖌️📜

Through intricate pen and ink sketches, often complemented by watercolor tints, Breslow captures a stark strangeness and abstract mystery in the spaces we inhabit. Each image invites viewers to grapple with themes of isolation, ambiguity, and the human desire for coherence.

🎨✨ Join us in exploring Breslow's evocative artwork, where every scratch mark and subtle shade serves to disorient and disturb, yet also reveals glimpses of hidden beauty. 🎨✨
https://www.liherald.com/seaford/stories/exploring-steve-breslows-enigmatic-art,206253

02/20/2024

🔥🚒 Rockaway Avenue Fire Update: Rebuilding Efforts Underway 🚒🔥

In the aftermath of the Jan. 27 blaze that tore through businesses on Rockaway Avenue and Jadwiga’s Polish American Deli, Valley Stream is rallying together for recovery.

Despite the devastating loss, Dr. Larry Cardano of the Hearing Center of Long Island swiftly relocated, turning adversity into opportunity at 20 West Lincoln Avenue.

Officials noted that the affected building, constructed in 1937, predates many contemporary safety regulations and codes. Consequently, there were no firewalls or adequate fire protection measures in the cockloft space, contributing to the rapid spread of the flames.

While investigations into the fire's cause continue, Mayor Edwin Fare emphasizes the importance of adhering to modern safety standards in rebuilding efforts.

In the early-morning hours of Jan. 27, a fire, which originated at the Jadwiga’s Polish American Deli on West Lincoln Avenue, ravaged a row of neighboring businesses on Rockaway Avenue. …