With a population of more than 38,000, Valley Stream is one of the largest villages in the state.

"It's a very big village - with a small town feel," says Valley Stream Village Clerk Vincent Ang, who grew up in the area. "I'm always amazed at just how many people know each other."

The community offers an abundance of annual activities, with the summer months especially festive. The village sponsors a well-attended summer day-camp program, and the Fourth of July fireworks show at Firemen's Memorial Field draws about 30,000 people.

Valley Stream's 160 acres of parkland include picturesque Hendrickson Park, with amenities such as a mile track around a lake, three pools, tennis and basketball courts; there's also a 9/11 memorial.

Shops, eateries and services can be found along major thoroughfares, including Rockaway Avenue, the area's original business district. Green Acres Mall, one of the Island's first malls, opened in 1956.

Capes dominate the area's neighborhoods, but Colonials, ranches and Tudors also can be found on tightly packed, neat lots, as well as two-family homes, condos and housing for seniors.

The village is served by a mayor and four trustees. Sanitation and transportation services are provided and there's also an auxiliary police department.

- Lisa Doll Bruno (6/4/2004)