Also serving Amityville, North Amityville, Amity Harbor, Copiague, and East Massapequa
Heuermann pleads guilty to Gilgo Beach murders
Page 3
LEGO event coming to Old Westbury Page 10
Employees of Babylon Town’s CLEAN program stand in front of some of the tons of debris they collected from local streets during the month of March.
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com
In 2024, the Town of Babylon issued a challenge to residents: “Be classy, not trashy.”
The slogan marked the launch of the town’s Babylon CLEAN program, an initiative aimed at reducing litter on roadways, parks and other public spaces.
As part of the effort, the town established a litter enforcement team within its Public Safety Department. Those caught littering can face fines of up to $1,000 for a first offense.
The program also includes crews dedicated to identifying and cleaning areas in need of attention, including removing litter, trimming vegetation and managing overgrowth.
Officials said the teams also provide regular updates on the program’s progress.
According to the town, cleanup crews covered 104 miles in March and removed 25 tons of debris.
Town officials said the program’s broader goal is to prevent littering before it occurs by encouraging behavioral change among residents.
“We have to change mindsets,” Town Supervisor Rich Schaffer said. “This initiative is a comprehensive approach to enhance the beauty of our town while ensuring the health, well-being and safety of our community and environment.”
For more information, visit townofbabylonny.gov/922/CLEAN-Program.
Amityville LL opening day Page 12
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com
North Amityville residents gathered last week to discuss increasing community involvement in the Amityville school district, with a focus on boosting participation in school board elections and encouraging more local candidates to run.
About 40 people attended the meeting, held at Prayer Tabernacle on Great Neck Road in Amityville and led by community organizer Madeline QuintyneMcConney, voicing concerns about the visibility and representation of the North Amityville community in the district.
“We wanted to have this meeting to give you an update and remind you that as a community, when someone is running for the school board or as a candidate for any office, we have to all come out and vote,” Quintyne-McConney said. “If we stay home, nothing gets done, nothing changes.”
Several attendees said representation and participation remain key concerns.
“For me, it is all about the numbers,” said resident Patricia Hobson. “It is disheartening that at times there is a toxic environment (in the district and at school board meetings). We need an environment in which we are trusted, respected, heard and honored.”
Hobson added that many school board meetings run until 10:30 or 11 p.m., making attendance difficult for working residents. “We need an environment in which our voices are heard.”
“We must go back to the old school practices where we groom people (to become candidates),” said Karla Bryant, who noted that it is sometimes difficult to get people from North Amityville to run for office since there are many who rent apartments and homes there and are not as interested in what is going on in the community. “We need more home ownership,” she said.
“Things will not change unless people step up and become part of the change,” said school board president Lisa Johnson.
Quintyne-McConney echoed that message.
“We can talk until we are blue in the face but until the community shows up, we will not win,” she said.
Wendy Canestro, a resident from south Amityville attended the meeting but did not speak publicly. Afterward, she said she was concerned about the ‘tone of the meeting,’ particularly because school board members Juan Leon and Megan Messman were not invited.
Both candidates have often expressed views that differ from those of Johnson and fellow board members Leslie Kretz, Chris Ne-
CONTINUED FROM COVER hring and Carol Seehof, including on the recent decision to extend the contract of Superintendent Gina Talbert.
“The meeting appeared to be a coordinated campaign in a church led by a nonresident and a Town official that included the (teachers’) union president, PTA president and a quorum of majority board members,” said Canestro. “Those challenging the status quo, including the board’s minority members Leon and Messman, were not invited, despite calls for unity.”
Leon confirmed he was not invited to the meeting but declined to comment.
Quintyne-McConney was raised in North Amityville and is a graduate of Amityville Memorial High School, facts she raised at the meeting during her introduction. However, she no longer lives in the community.
Quintyne-McConney said that there were no personal invitations sent to anyone about the meeting. “We made up a flyer that was made available to the general public” she said in response to Canestro’s criticism.
Nakia Wolfe, Amityville Teacher Association president, said broader inclusion is necessary for progress. “Until we get individuals who are going to come to the table as a collective and can work together without animosity, and without the vitriol that you tend to have, (the school district) is not going to be a comfortable place,” he
ing on students.
said. “There is a disconnect here and the desire to be on the school board is more about power than its about doing what’s right for the kids.”
The school board meets tonight, April 15, 7:30 p.m., Park Avenue Memorial Elementary School. A special meeting to discuss the BOCES budget and trustee vote will be held April 21, 5:30 p.m. The budget vote and trustee election is May 19.
By ALYSSA R. GRIFFIN
agriffin@liherld.com
Rex Heuermann admitted to being the Gilgo Beach serial killer and murdering eight women: Melissa Barthelemy, Maureen Brainard-Barnes, Amber Lynn Costello, Megan Waterman, Jessica Taylor, Sandra Costilla, and
Beach off Ocean Parkway in 2011.
The plea was made in Riverhead on Wednesday, April 8.
The suspected person was tagged with the infamous nickname — the Gilgo Beach killer. Heuermann, who lived in Massapequa Park with his wife and children at the time of the killings, became the human embodiment of the moniker when he was arrested in July 2023.
The decision brought quick response from the Massapequa community.
“Massapequa Park is a strong, resilient community, said Massapequa Park Village Mayor Dan Pearl. “This case cast a long shadow, but it does not define who we are. Today bring a measure of closure and we move forward together with strength, unity and compassion.”
“Everyone is thrilled this is over,” said longtime Massapequa Park resident John O’Brien. “When this first happened, this place (Massapequa Park) was a madhouse; you could not get through certain streets. I am happy that he pleaded guilty and the case is over now.”
In January, Heuermann appeared before state Supreme Court Justice Timothy Mazzei in Riverhead, as his attorneys filed a 178-page omnibus motion asking for multiple forms of legal relief, including dismissing a seconddegree murder charge in the 1993 death of Sandra Costilla, and inspecting grand jury minutes to determine whether the evidence presented was legally sufficient.
Media and onlookers in front of Heuermann’s home on First
after police announced his arrest in connection with the
Village officials eventually cordoned off the area to give nearby residents some relief from the crowds that gathered there.
Heuermann to the victims.
Defense attorneys argued that the testing methods and conclusions should be closely examined, raising questions about how the evidence was collected and interpreted.
Valerie Mack, along Ocean Parkway between 1993 and 2011. He strangled six of the women. He also admitted to killing Karen Vergata, who disappeared in 1996. Her legs were found in a plastic bag on Fire Island after she went missing and her skull was found west of Tobay
He previously pleaded not guilty, and his attorneys had mounted a broad challenge to the prosecution’s case.
At earlier court proceedings, the defense focused heavily on disputing key forensic evidence, particularly DNA analysis that prosecutors say links
They also challenged other elements of the investigation, signaling an effort to weaken the overall case against Heuermann and lay the groundwork for a possible trial.
Prosecutors, however, had maintained that the evidence is strong, citing a combination of DNA findings, cell
phone data and years of investigative work that led to Heuermann’s arrest.
In September, Suffolk County Supreme Court Judge Tim Mazzei ruled that accused Heuermann would face one trial for his seven alleged murders.
—Carolyn James contributed to this story.
A version of this story was initially posted online at amityvillerecord.com April 8.
The Town of Babylon Parks & Recreation recently announced its 2026 art contest winners.
Supervisor Rich Schaffer, Deputy Supervisor Tony Martinez and members of the Town Board recognized these local artists, whose work captured this year’s theme, “Faces of Our Town,” celebrating the people who make our community so special.
The following artists’ work were recognized:
•Ages 7 and under: Gianna Rzymski, Valentina Gomez Ortiz and Dira Vargas.
•Ages 8–10: Madison Threadgill, Aaliyah Rose and Kaylee Wolfe.
•Ages 11–19: Zarah Valentina Gomez, Kayla Rose and Crismeli Furcal
•Ages 20 & Up: Edward Lee, Nicole Girgenti and Sarah DeSalvo
Their work will be showcased in the Town of Babylon’s 2026 Recreation Guide and displayed at Town Hall this summer.
Courtesy AFA Center
Attendees at the Alzheimer’s Foundation memory café enjoy music and socialization. tivities including music, singing and conversation.
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America has launched a new memory café program at its Barbara Rabinowitz Education & Resource Center in Amityville for families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related illnesses.
The program offers a relaxed setting where people living with dementia and their caregivers can socialize and connect with others facing similar challenges. Participants gather for ac-
The center, at 149 Schleigel Blvd., will host its next memory café on May 29. Residents interested in attending can register by calling (631) 223-4000.
In addition to the memory café, the center offers daily activity programs, caregiver support groups and memory screenings at no cost. More information is available at afalongisland.org or by calling the same number.
Bereavement Support Group
Bereavement Support Group hosted by Our Lady of Grace Church, 666 Albin Ave., West Babylon, every Saturday through November 8, from 9:30 to 11 a.m. For more information, contact John Laszewski 631 874-0210.
Food Pantry/Clothing Closet
Offered by Hands Across Long Island, Inc. (HALI), Food Pantry and Clothing Closet work together to alleviate hunger, address food insecurity, and fulfill the basic need for clothing within the surrounding community. By offering a diverse selection of food items and clothing options, we support individuals and families facing economic challenges while promoting dignity, sustainability, and community support in times of adversity. For more information, go to: www.hali88. org or call 631-234-1925. HALI is at 159 Brightside Ave., Central Islip.
Response 24/7 Crisis Hotline
The Response crisis intervention/ referral hotline is open every day of the year, day and night, including holidays. Professionally trained and supervised counselors offer callers telephone support and help them to explore options that allow them to think through their next steps. This counseling helps callers lower their anxiety and find their own solutions. Crisis counselors also provide referrals for support groups, clinicians, mental health clinics, other hotlines and a host of other community programs and services. Response Hotline is available 24/7 at (631) 751-7500.
Residential Program:
Beacon House - Short-term, longterm and transitional housing is provided throughout Long Island in 58 group homes, emergency shelters, and select single-family residences. Those eligible include homeless veterans, veterans with families, veterans and non-veterans with substance abuse and mental health issues, women in need of supportive housing, and those living with HIV/AIDS. Every veteran resident has access to intensive case management, transportation and daily living essentials. Services are made possible through funding from NYS OTDA, Veteran Administration, HUD, and Suffolk County. For assistance, call 631 665-1571.
Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation
•LICADD substance abuse 24-hour hotline: 631-979-1700; licadd.org
•DASH: 631-952-3333; fsl-li.org/helpservices/diagnosis-assessment-andstabilization-hub-dash
•Talbot House: 24-hr. substance abuse crisis center: 631-589-4144; catholiccharities.cc/our-services/chemicaldependence
•Response Crisis Center, suicide prevention, 631-751-7500; responsecrisiscenter.org
•VIBS: Domestic violence, sexual assault, 24-hour hotline, 631-360-3606; vibs.org 24/7 Emergency Hotlines
•N.C. Drug & Alcohol Hotline: 516227-8255
• LI Crisis Center: 516-679-1111
• Response Crisis Center: 631-751-7500
• S.C. Drug & alcohol hotline: 631-9791700
The following incidents have been reported by the Suffolk County Police Department in the First and Third precincts, the Amityville Village Police Department and other law enforcement and emergency service units:
Amityville: Someone slashed four tires on a vehicle parked on Peppermill Lane April 8. The owner told police the incident occurred overnight while the vehicle was parked in the driveway of the home.
•The owner of a vehicle parked in front of a home on Merrick Road reported that the car was damaged sometime before 10:30, March 30. The owner said the rear window of the car was smashed and the vehicle rifled through. Nothing was reported missing.
Copiague: A resident of Clearwater Road reported being scammed after responding to an online job offer. Police said the victim was instructed to purchase a computer through a distributor and provided personal information, which was then used to withdraw funds.
Amityville: A Massapequa Park resident reported that he lost or had his cell phone stolen while he was at The Amityville Music Hall on Broadway April 5.
East Farmingdale: Merchandise valued at approximately $515 was reported stolen from Home Depot at Airport Plaza on March 30.
Copiague: Items valued at $9 were reported stolen from K&T Auto Supply on Dixon Avenue on March 28.
ARRESTS
Driving while intoxicated/impaired: Jesus Maldonado Sarabia, 68, Hicksville; Melissa Panetta, 57, Islip; Luis Huaylinos, 44; Wilber Zelayagranados, 34, Bay Shore; Pedro Canalesgarcia, 32, North Bay Shore; Maria Faraldo, 59, Village of the Branch; Willie Seeger, 39, Brentwood; Gerson Choccaal, 25, North Amityville; Lorenzo Cacbo, 37, North Amityville; Raymond Ketcham, 35, Copiague; Cassie Hernandez, Wyandanch; Jorge Menjivarsantos, 40, Wyandanch; Edwin Vasquez, 31, Hempstead; Victor Tineo, 33, North Amityville.
Assault:
Irwing Florescasas, 36, Terryville. Petit larceny: Joshua Nembhard, 28, Westbury; Anthony Scotland, 33, North Amityville; Anyelina Rodriguez, 24, Copiague; Randall Holman, 30, Remsenburg-Speonk; Franco Scala, 68, Long Beach; Imani Milligan, 30, Amityville; Keshauna Boggs, Lake Ronkonkoma; William Crabbe, 46, Bayport. Leaving scene of an accident: Tarek Morcos, 66, West Islip; Dana Perdomo, 45, Lindenhurst (injury to an animal reported).
Grand larceny: Jonathan McAllister, 33, Bronx; Wilguens Mentor, 19, Dix Hills; Clem Narcisse, 53, Brentwood.
People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.
WEB SITE: www.amityvillerecord.com /
THURSDAY, APRIL 16
•Amityville Rotary Club Meeting: 8 a.m., Brownstones Coffee, 55 Merrick Road, Amityville. For more information, please call President Carolyn Dodd at (631) 374-8712.
•Church Attic Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. For information, call (631) 264-0152 or email amitychurch1792@gmail.com
•Town of Babylon Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting: 6 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. For more information, please call (631) 957-3012.
FRIDAY, APRIL 17
•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631) 789-2569.
•St. Mary’s Thrift Shop: 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., 175 Broadway, Amityville, enter from rear parking lot. Lots of collectibles, glassware, clothing and other gently used items. For information, call (631) 464-4899.
SATURDAY, APRIL 18
•Church Attic Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. For information, call (631) 264-0152 or email amitychurch1792@gmail.com
•St. Mary’s Thrift Shop: 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., 175 Broadway, Amityville, enter from rear parking lot. Lots of
collectibles, glassware, clothing and other gently used items. For information, call (631) 464-4899.
SUNDAY, APRIL 19
•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631) 789-2569.
MONDAY, APRIL 20
•Town of Babylon Planning Board Meeting: 7 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. For more information, please call (631) 957-4434.
TUESDAY, APRIL 21
•Amityville School District Board of Education Special Session, BOCES Budget/Trustee Vote: 5:30 p.m., Park Avenue Memorial Elementary School, 140 Park Ave., Amityville. For more information, please call (631) 565-6000.
•Copiague School District Board of Education Meeting: 7 p.m., Everett E. Newmann III Administrative Offices at Copiague Middle School, 2650 Great Neck Road, Copiague. For more information, please call (631)-842-4015.
•Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m., Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9592, 55 Hickory Lane, Levittown. Free weekly, in-person meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631) 332-0552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808. All calls are confidential.
•Church Attic Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. For information, call (631) 264-0152 or email amitychurch1792@gmail.com
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22
•Town of Babylon Rental Review Board Meeting: 6 p.m., Town Board
Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. For more information, please call (631) 957-4434.
•Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m. Free weekly, virtual meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631) 332-0552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808. All calls are confidential.
•Church Attic Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. For information, call (631) 264-0152 or email amitychurch1792@gmail.com
Calendar items are printed for non-profit organizations, as space permits, or when an event, service or information is being sponsored by a profit-making organization without charge to readers. Submit items to us at Richner Communications, attn: Record Editor, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530; or email: dconsola@liherald.com at least two - three weeks prior to the publication date in which the item must appear. Sorry, but open-ended requests without the specific dates of the events are not acceptable. While we make every attempt to accommodate each request, we cannot guarantee publication of any items. For more information, call 516-569-4000.
By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com
Amityville baseball may be off to a challenging 0–6 start, but inside the program, belief hasn’t wavered. Under coach Jack Zider, the Tide are embracing adversity as part of a bigger journey, one defined not just by wins and losses, but by growth, resilience, and unity.
“They’re staying positive,” Zider said. “If you’re not doing that, then you’re not doing it right.”
That mindset has been tested early. Amityville returned to a more competitive league this season, facing programs with recent championship pedigrees. For many players, especially seniors seeing some of these opponents for the first time, it has been a wake up call. The level of competition has been relentless, with the Tide already matching up against elite arms, including pitchers from Kings Park committed to Division I programs like UConn and Rutgers.
“Our schedule is very tough,” Zider said. “We’ve moved back up into our natural placement, and the guys are learning that when you go up against top talent, the stakes are high.”
Despite the record, effort has never been in question. Zider calls this group one of the hardest working teams he’s coached. The roster features six seniors and no freshmen, along with a strong core of five sophomores who are already making an impact. Leadership has also stood out, with veteran players taking younger teammates under their wing and fostering a culture of accountability and support.
At the forefront is co-captain Aidan McCullough, a four-year varsity starter committed to St. Joseph’s University in Brooklyn. McCullough has been a steady force at the plate, reaching base in every game so far this season. “He’s a dream to coach,” Zider said.
Fellow co-captain Alex Waye has also been a key contributor. The returning AllCounty pitcher built a dominant junior season, posting 38 strikeouts over 18 innings with a 1.87 ERA. He picked up right where he left off, allowing just one earned run over four innings on opening day against Mt. Sinai.
Lee/Herald Ewerson Borges-Fernandez batted over .400 for the Tide last spring as a junior.
Versatility is another strength for the Tide, embodied by Darell Sanchez. A Queens College commit, Sanchez contributes as a center fielder, catcher, and occasional pitcher. Though not a captain, he’s widely viewed as a team leader, and his presence will be difficult to replace next year. He’s already added a home run to his resume.
Senior Ewerson Borges-Fernandez, who hit over .400 last year, continues to provide offensive production, while sophomore Elijah McCullough is emerging as both a talented player and a high character presence. Another sophomore, Cole DeBruin, brings energy and grit to second base, serving as a vocal leader in the dugout despite his smaller stature.
Meanwhile, junior Justice Wright has impressed defensively in left field, contributing to a team that continues to sharpen its fundamentals.
The players themselves pushed to return to this more competitive league, motivated by the opportunity to qualify for the playoffs. While the adjustment has been difficult, their belief remains strong.
“They still believe that they belong,” Zider said. “Now it’s about figuring out how to translate that belief into performance.”
If the early season has proven anything, it’s that the Tide won’t back down. With a committed core, emerging young talent, and a coach who believes in their potential, Amityville is determined to turn lessons into results.
“They’re going to figure it out,” Zider said. “I know they will.”
By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com
Babylon’s softball team is off to a strong start, posting a 3-1 record while showcasing both offensive firepower and a tight knit team dynamic.
Under the leadership of coach Nicole O’Donnell, the Panthers are building momentum early with the goal of returning to the Long Island championship, a stage they’ve reached the past two seasons but fell just short of capturing.
Babylon opened in dominant fashion with a 17-4 victory over Hauppauge on March 23, setting the tone for what has already been a high-scoring offense. After a narrow 10-9 loss to Center Moriches on March 26, the team responded emphatically, shutting out Mattituck/Greenport/Southold 17-0 on March 30 and Southampton 12-0 the following day. The ability to bounce back quickly has highlighted both the resilience and determination of this group.
Despite competing in a challenging league, the Panthers embrace the difficulty. The tough schedule is seen not as an obstacle, but as preparation for postseason success. Having come so close in recent years, the motivation to return, and finish the job, continues to grow. “We like the challenge of being in such a tough league,” O’Donnell said.
Leadership is a major strength for Babylon, led by senior captain Carissa Arena. A three-year varsity outfielder, Arena brings steady defense, a positive attitude, and strong leadership both on and off the field. Her presence helps set the tone for the team’s culture.
“She does so much for us both on and off the field,” O’Donnell said. “She is constantly bringing positivity to the field.” Arena got the season started strong by going two for three with two runs scored and an RBI against Hauppauge.
Joining her is junior captain Eliana Romero, a catcher in her fourth varsity campaign. Romero leads more quietly but plays a crucial role in guiding the team’s younger pitchers, keeping them composed and confident in high pressure situations.
In the circle, sophomore pitcher Sophia Hagerty-Cori has taken on a massive respon-
pitcher Sophia
will be a workhorse in the circle for the Panthers. sibility. Now in her second year on varsity, she has matured significantly and embraced the challenge of being the team’s sole pitcher. Throwing every inning of every game is no small feat, but her passion for the sport and competitive mindset have made her a cornerstone of the team. She is responsible for all three wins while striking out 36 batters in the four games so far.
The Panthers also feature an impressive group of young talent. Eighth grader Addy Janawsky returns after posting one of the highest batting averages on the team last season and finishing as runner up for Rookie of the Year. She is already off to another good start with 4 RBIs. Seventh grader Addy Bennett has already made an impact as an exceptional outfielder, earning a starting spot early in her career.
Versatility is another asset, exemplified by junior Abby Sawczyn, a fourth year varsity player who can play third base, shortstop, or the outfield. Her ability to fill multiple roles gives the team valuable flexibility. Next up for the Panthers is a date with Shoreham-Wading River on Thursday.
Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School students enrolled in Heather Meidinger’s journalism class are gaining firsthand experience in what it means to think and work like professional journalists. Through hands-on instruction, students learn to analyze and critique
news media while building foundational skills in writing, reporting, interviewing and editing.
The course, open to all high school students, introduces multiple styles of journalism, including digital, photo, broadcast and print media. It explores
the basics of journalism ethics, media literacy and responsible reporting, while teaching how to conduct effective interviews and evaluate sources for accuracy and bias.
Many students in the program also extend their learning beyond the classroom by participating in Copiague Voice News, the school’s digital newspaper, where they help produce video segments and short public service announce-
ments. This real-world experience allows students to collaborate creatively, apply technical skills and communicate important messages to the school community.
The journalism program empowers students to become informed media consumers and confident storytellers, preparing them for future academic pursuits and careers in communications, media and beyond.
WORSHIP SERVICES: Sunday Worship & Sunday School 10:00 a.m. Wednesday Worship 7:30 p.m.
Accessible to the Physcially Challenged “The Friendly Church”
By Roksana amid, stacy dRiks & Hailey FulmeR of the Herald
Sixth installment in a series about water.
Concerns about water quality remain visible and closely tied to patterns of neglect in communities across Long Island.
In the region, water problems don’t exist in isolation. Flooding, contamination and aging infrastructure are increasingly intersecting, and all of it can be traced back to a single source: the Island’s underground aquifer system. The sole-source system supplies all of the region’s drinking water, leaving little margin for error as environmental pressures intensify.
neglect beneath the surface
In Uniondale, aging infrastructure, delayed upgrades and a lack of investment are reflected in a deteriorating water tower and broader concerns about environmental health. The tower is known locally as “Old Rusty,” according to Pearl Jacobs, president of the Nostrand Gardens Civic Association, and has stood for more than three decades without proper maintenance. Experts typically recommend inspection, repainting and structural upkeep every seven years, Jacobs said.
“It’s beyond repair,” she said of the tower. “You can see the corrosion. There were reports of leaks. This is not just infrastructure; it’s a health and safety issue.”
Despite years of complaints, advocates like Jacobs say local officials initially proposed only cosmetic fixes, such as applying internal epoxy coatings to stop leaks. It was only after community pressure that roughly $10 million was allocated in 2025 for a new tower. The project is still in its early stages over a year later. The new tower is planned to be fully operational by the summer of 2027.
Residents have reported brown water in their homes, raising concerns about unsafe levels of contaminants. Water quality studies conducted one of Jacobs civic partners, Jeannine Maynard, cofounder of the Greater Uniondale Area Action Coalition and vice president of the Uniondale Community Land Trust indicated elevated levels of 1,4-dioxane, [a synthetic industrial chemical that is often found as a contaminant in water supplies, especially in places with past manufacturing or heavy chemical use], in the system.
Uniondale’s water infrastructure also includes aging pipes, with much of the system’s lead content still unknown. Maps show large portions of Uniondale untested, highlighting gaps in oversight compared with nearby communities. Advocates say these combined issues — brown water, an outdated tower, unknown lead risks and industrial contamination — reflect broader inequities.
a pattern of delays and uncertainty
The water tower is not just a one-off
issue but, for many residents, part of a broader pattern of neglect in the Town of Hempstead.
Jacobs pointed to a stark comparison: while Uniondale’s water tower deteriorated, West Hempstead received millions of dollars for a new facility. “They took taxpayer money and invested it elsewhere while our infrastructure was failing,” she said.
Uniondale residents, Jacobs said, have been diagnosed with a variety of cancers. “People start asking questions like, ‘What’s in our water?’”
reflects “a level of neglect,” leaving residents in the dark about risks.
“When things are ignored for decades, it sends a message,” Maynard said. “The question is: whose communities get prioritized and whose are left waiting?”
researchers are still working to understand the full scope.
Rising seas, stronger storms strain water supply
“We have a single-source water supply on Long Island,” Ali FarhadZadeh, an associate professor of civil engineering at Stony Brook University, said. “The water basically comes from the ground — from the aquifer.”
Residents wonder about the safety of their water because much of the community’s infrastructure has not been fully studied, said Maynard.
An interactive map from the League of Conservation Voters shows that while neighboring Hempstead has many defined lead service lines, most of Uniondale is listed as unknown, raising concerns about potential contamination. Air studies and local health data suggest higher rates of certain conditions, such as asthma, in the community, which may be linked to environmental exposure. Experts say the lack of detailed pipe inventories and testing
She also pointed to growing concern over PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a class of human-made chemicals often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily in the environment or the human body. Used for decades in products designed to resist heat, water and stains — including firefighting foam, nonstick cookware and waterproof materials — PFAS have entered groundwater through industrial processes.
And because Long Island relies on a sole-source aquifer, those contaminants can persist and circulate throughout the region, Maynard said. “These weren’t things people were even looking for,” she said. “So they built up over time.”
She added that PFAS and related contaminants have been detected widely across Long Island. Exposure has been linked in studies to increased risks of cancers, hormone disruption and other long-term health effects, though
As storms grow more frequent and sea levels rise, that system is under mounting strain. Heavier rainfall is overwhelming drainage systems and saturating the ground, increasing flooding and raising the risk of saltwater intrusion.
“We have saltwater that’s in the sediment, under the ocean on the South Shore,” Ryan Wallace, assistant professor at Adelphi University’s Department of Environmental Studies and Sciences said. “That saltwater could actually make its way to make its way into and mix with the freshwater aquifer, and that’s a lot of different towns.”
While residents are not drinking saltwater, intrusion can render wells unusable and reduce the region’s supply of clean drinking water.
New York state launched a pilot program on March 8 to help residents with private wells testing for PFAS contamination and cover cleanup costs. Suffolk is among the counties expected to be
included.
Eligible homeowners can receive free testing and may qualify for rebates of up to $5,000 for filtration systems or $10,000 to connect to public water companies.
“It makes infrastructure like septic systems and pipelines very vulnerable,” FarhadZadeh said of heavy rainfall. “They’re old — they’re not built for the new norm that we have with these storm patterns.”
Low-lying communities — particularly along the South Shore and in eastern Suffolk County — face more frequent flooding and infrastructure stress. Flooding is no longer limited to major storms.
When groundwater is already close to the surface, even routine rainfall can overwhelm drainage systems, creating a direct pathway between surface pollution and the aquifer.
“When it floods, water picks up and carries a lot of pollutants with it,” Robert Hayes, Environmental Advocates NY’s senior director of clean water, said. “Those pollutants might make their way into drinking water sources, whether it’s groundwater or surface water.”
Hayes said that investing in naturebased solutions such as wetlands or rain gardens could help capture water before it carries pollutants.
Aging infrastructure adds to growing risks
Many of Long Island’s water and sewer systems were built decades ago, at a time when both population and climate pressures were lower.
“The aging infrastructure is a big deal,” FarhadZadeh said. “I think it should be taken very seriously.”
Systems not designed to handle today’s volume of stormwater can quickly become overwhelmed, increasing the likelihood of overflows, leaks or system failures.
A $250 million water infrastructure funding package announced by Gov. Kathy Hochul on March 12 includes projects aimed at upgrading aging systems and improving water quality statewide. It includes $23 million for the Village of Hempstead and $5 million for PFAS treatment in Williston Park.
Hayes said that such investments are critical, but risks — and resources — vary across the region.
“Long Island has some of the most polluted drinking water in the state of New York,” he said. “But there is much more contamination still out there, and much more still to be done to make sure that no New Yorker is exposed to harmful levels of contamination when they turn on the tap.”
“Drinking water and quality issues on Long Island — we can consider them to be disproportionately affecting certain communities,” Wallace said. “Especially communities with older infrastructure, in close proximity to industrial zones or historically industrial areas.” Communities like Uniondale and Hempstead Village, which also have fewer resources to address the problem.
Exposure to contaminated drinking water, Wallace said, has been associated with increased risks of cancers including stomach, bladder, kidney, ovarian and prostate.
As flooding increases and infrastructure continues to age, the challenge for Long Island is not just protecting its water supply, but understanding how interconnected pressures are reshaping it from the ground up.
Glen Cove’s drinking water meets all state and federal safety standards, according to the city’s 2024 annual water quality report, but maintaining that standard has required years of infrastructure upgrades, careful management of its well system and, at times, reliance on neighboring communities.
In nearby Glen Head and Sea Cliff, water is supplied privately by Liberty Utilities, highlighting differences not only in cost, but in how water systems are maintained and experienced by residents.
Glen Cove relies on a network of six municipal wells, including sites at Duck Pond Road, Nancy Court, Seaman Road and Kelly Street. According to former Councilwoman Marsha Silverman, the system was under significant strain eight years ago , with only two of the six wells operational at the time.
Multiple wells were offline for different reasons — contamination, storm damage, long-term deterioration — forcing the city to act quickly to restore capacity.
“We had purchased a couple hundred thousand dollars’ worth of water from Locust Valley because we couldn’t supply Glen Cove,” Silverman said.
To stabilize the system, the city
implemented a multi-year plan that included installing temporary filtration systems at the Duck Pond Road wells to address freon contamination, repairing the Kelly Street well after a lightning strike, and fully rehabilitating the Seaman Road well.
That work is ongoing. In January, the City Council approved more than $700,000 in additional repairs to the Seaman Road well, awarding a $776,000 contract to Philip Ross Industries Inc. to upgrade its granular activated carbon system. The improvements are intended to better regulate PFAS, which have been linked to serious health risks, and ensure that the well remains in compliance with state Department of Health standards.
The investment follows a broader pattern of spending, with the city investing tens of millions of dollars in its water system in recent years, including a $5 million rehabilitation project completed in 2024 at the Seaman Road station. Those upgrades are necessary as state and federal guidelines for contaminants become increasingly strict.
“There was always talk about building a seventh well, because we really need it,” Silverman said.
Despite those infrastructure challenges, Glen Cove’s municipal system remains relatively affordable compared with neighboring communities, because it is publicly operated and not for profit.
Residents’ quarterly bills typically range from $40 to $50 in the winter to a few hundred dollars in the summer, depending on usage.
In contrast, residents of Glen Head and Sea Cliff — served by private systems — often face significantly higher costs, with some paying hundreds of
dollars per month. Those systems generally factor operational expenses, infrastructure upgrades and profit into their rate structures, contributing to higher bills.
For Glen Head resident Agatha Nadale, the cost is substantial — about $1,800 per year. Her concerns, however, extend beyond the money.
“I can remember [in the ’70s] we’d fill a pitcher of water in the summer and there were these, like, little squiggly things swimming in the water,” she said. She also recalled a strong chlorine taste, and said those early experiences continue to shape how she uses water today. Nadale said she relies on a wholehouse filtration system, and does not drink tap water.
“I have already saved a handful of families from buying homes where Liberty Utilities is,” she said.
While Glen Head’s system has undergone upgrades — including carbon filtration systems designed to remove PFAS and meet stricter standards for water quality — public perception has not always kept pace with those improvements.
Although Glen Cove’s system remains compliant, continued monitoring and investment will be necessary as environmental standards evolve. That concern extends across Long Island, where all communities rely on the same groundwater source and face challenges not only of contamination and saltwater intrusion, but also of steadily increasing demand.
Silverman has also raised the possibility of long-term alternatives, including desalination, though no formal plans have been established.
At the federal level, U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi said that water quality has been a longstanding priority.
“This has been a problem for a long time, and I’ve been working on improving our water quality on Long Island for over 30 years,” Suozzi said. “Dealing with aging infrastructure as mayor of Glen Cove, I realized how crucial drinking water projects were to my community. I installed one of the earliest ‘granulated activated carbon’ filtration systems on Long Island.”
“Improvements need to consistently be made to ensure our water remains safe,” he added.
For Glen Cove, the ability to draw from neighboring systems like Locust Valley provides a critical safety net. But it also highlights the importance for the city of maintaining its own infrastructure — particularly its network of wells — as demand continues to grow.
Across the North Shore, the contrast is clear: While water may come from the same aquifer, the cost, management and experience of that water can vary significantly from one community to the next.
And for residents like Nadale, of Glen Head, those differences are not abstract — they shape daily decisions about cost, safety and trust in what comes out of the tap.
By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD
cbabirad@liherld.com
Old Westbury Gardens will feature a new exhibition, “Sean Kenney’s Nature Connects Made with LEGO bricks,” beginning this May.
This exhibition will showcase nature found at Old Westbury Gardens through art created entirely from LEGO bricks.
“This is such a beautiful fit for us,” said Maura Brush, president and CEO of Old Westbury Gardens. “It’s as if someone took parts of the garden and placed them under a magnifying glass—Something like a butterfly sipping from a flower or a hummingbird sitting on a flower is all of a sudden magnified to this larger-than-life proportion.”
Brush explained that the colors used in these displays match the colors in nature and are all made to depict plants and animals that live at Old Westbury Gardens, including frogs, bunnies, foxes, butterflies and hummingbirds.
The art will be on display beginning May 15 for members and May 16 for the public. The exhibition will stretch through the summer until September 7.
Produced by Imagine, Nature Connects depicts important topics that the New York artist, Sean Kenney said he holds dear, from protecting an animals’ habitat, to planting a garden.
The exhibition will be open daily, except Tuesdays, to the public from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
This event is included with admission. General admission is $22; $20 for ages 62+ and full-time students with valid ID; $12 for children ages 7–17; and free for children 6 and under. Tickets are now available to purchase at oldwestburygardens.org.
Old Westbury Gardens is located at 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury.
For more information, please call (516) 333-0048.
Business First workshop, with topics ranging from billing to electric vehicles, scheduled for May 6
By ANGELINA ZINGARIELLO azingariello@liherald.com
To mark Small Business Week, May 3-9, PSEG Long Island will host a Business First Workshop to support small businesses across the region.
The workshop is scheduled for May 6, from 9 to 11 a.m., at the Nassau County Office of Emergency Management, at 510 Grumman Road West in Bethpage, commonly referred to as the old Grumman building. The event is intended to bring together business owners and PSEG Long Island representatives to share information about programs and services that can help businesses operate more efficiently and manage energy use and costs.
“PSEG Long Island is proud to support our local business community — the entrepreneurs who invest in our neighborhoods, drive local economy and create jobs,” Veronica Isaac, PSEG Long Island’s senior manager of Economic Development, said. “Our Business First Workshop on May 6 will present all of the products and services offered by our PSEG Long Island Business First program for small and medium business owners. We will also have a special recognition ceremony to honor local companies and business organizations that participate in, promote and support our programs.”
Last year’s Business First Workshop presenters offered information about programs and services that help businesses operate more efficiently.
The company’s Business First program provides businesses with dedicated support for managing electricity needs, as well as information on billing processes and energy-efficiency incentives. Other areas of focus include building and renovation services, electric vehicle infrastructure and fleet incen -
tives, and procurement-related opportunities.
The topics will include digital tools such as the utility’s app and online account management platforms, as well as economic development initiatives that offer grants and bill credit opportunities.
Presenters will include Nayan Parikh, on digital channels; Christine
Bryson, on economic development; Alex Nyilas, on the Business First program; Alexandro Campos, on billing; Brittany Degel, on energy efficiency; Nicole Jones-Cumberbatch, on building and renovation services; Paul DiBenedetto, on electric vehicles; and Jimmy Alty, on procurement.
The workshop will also provide an opportunity for attendees to connect with Business First Advocates and representatives from procurement and building and renovation services, offering direct access to support resources.
Long Island is home to more than 100,000 small businesses, according to the Long Island Association, underscoring their significance to the regional economy.
“We proudly share information about PSEG Long Island’s revitalization programs with all new businesses in our community,” Cheryl Fajardo, past president of the Greater New Hyde Park Chamber of Commerce, said. “As a strong partner in local economic development, PSEG Long Island has played a vital role in helping us improve our downtown areas through beautification projects, infrastructure support and promotional efforts.”
Pre-registration is recommended by emailing PSEGLI-Businessfirst@psegliny.com.
Enrollment is now open for the next class at The Plumbing Contractors Association of Long Island’s, PCALI, Plumbing Institute. Interested students are encouraged to apply soon as admission is offered on a first-come, first-served basis until the class reaches its limit of 25 participants.
This no-cost program delivers handson, real-world training to build a reliable workforce pipeline for contractors across Long Island. The PCALI Plumbing Institute is designed to provide students the foundation they need to begin a successful career in plumbing at no cost to the par-
ticipant. Last September, the Institute welcomed its first class, marking the start of an exciting new chapter for the service and maintenance plumbing trade while creating new employment opportunities for Long Islanders.
As the demand for qualified and licensed plumbing professionals continues to grow, the PCALI Plumbing Institute plays an important role in preparing the next generation of skilled tradespeople. By combining hands-on training with real-world experience, the Institute helps ensure that future licensed plumbers are
Residents should expect an increased law enforcement presence at Jones Beach State Park on May 31, when state and local agencies conduct a large-scale emergency response exercise.
The training, organized by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and State Park Police, will run from 8 a.m. to noon near Field 5. The exercise will simulate several emergency scenarios to test coordination among agencies.
Officials said the area around Field 5 will be closed to the public during the drill, and visitors will see a noticeable increase in police, fire and emergency personnel throughout the park.
Participants will include State Park Police, New York State Police, Nassau County Police, the Wantagh Fire Department and Jones Beach State Park staff, along with representatives from other federal, state and local agencies.
Authorities said any weapons used in the exercise will be incapable of firing live rounds.
Park Police are seeking volunteers age 18 and older to portray park visitors from 6:30 a.m. to noon. Those under 18 may participate with parental consent if they are part of an auxiliary or similar program. Volunteers must complete a service agreement and submit it to ParksEmergencyMgmt-Exercises@parks.ny.gov.
ready to support local businesses and safely meet the plumbing, heating, and cooling needs of our communities for years to come.
“The Plumbing Contractors Association of Long Island’s Plumbing Institute is all about strengthening the plumbing industry on Long Island,” said PCALI President Jeff Connelly. “By offering students hands-on training and valuable industry experience, we’re helping prepare the next generation entering the trade while also supporting the continued growth of our members.”
Joe Enea, Director of the PCALI Plumbing Institute, added “Our goal is to develop well-trained plumbers, and it all starts right here. Our current students have already benefited exponentially from the network of industry professionals they have met and learned from. We encourage anyone interested in learning the plumbing trade at no cost and building a successful career to apply now.”
Those interested in applying for the upcoming class can contact Joe Enea by telephone at (631) 560-0973 or by email to joe@pcali.org.
The Amityville Little League will be holding its annual opening day parade on Sat., April 18. The league marches from Park Avenue School parking lot, beginning 10:30 a.m., to the Louden Avenue field where opening day ceremonies start at 11 a.m.,
This year, Michele Camilleri, a Rotarian and the former owner of Southside Florist, will throw out the first pitch.
For more information on Amityville League, registration, membership and sponsorships, go. to https://leagues.bluesombrero.com/amityvillelittleleague
The Amityville Fire Department and Better IT Now will be hosting a community blood drive on April 29 from 4 to 8:30 p.m. at Meeting Room, 55 W. Oak St., Amityville.
Appointments are highly recommended and vouchers for a free slice of pizza and/or
a pint will be provided for your donation, courtesy of The Pizzeria of Babylon. To schedule your donation, please visit donate.nybc.org/donor/schedules/drive_ schedule/337764.
For more information, visit nybc.org.
A widely cited 2017 study from the University of Pennsylvania suggests that successful guide dogs may have benefited from a bit of “tough love” early in life.
Researchers found that overly attentive, “helicopter” mother dogs appeared to hinder their puppies’ development, reducing their likelihood of successfully completing guide-dog training.
JOANNE ANDERSON
The study was led by Emily Bray, who earned her Ph.D. from Penn’s Department of Psychology. Her research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, was conducted at The Seeing Eye in Morristown, New Jersey, an organization that breeds, raises and trains dogs to guide people who are blind.
“It’s remarkable,” Bray said. “These puppies were with their mom for only five weeks and it’s having an effect on their success two years later. It seems that puppies need to learn how to deal with small challenges at this early age and, if they don’t, it hurts them later.”
Guide dogs offered researchers a unique study group. Puppies at The Seeing Eye are raised in a controlled environment, and their outcomes are clear: They either graduate to become working guide dogs or are released from the program. Success requires navigating complex, unpredictable environments
while remaining attentive and obedient.
At the time of the study, The Seeing Eye reported about a 70 percent success rate, making it especially valuable to understand which factors might improve outcomes.
Bray and her team observed 23 mother dogs and their 98 puppies during the first five weeks of life, documenting behaviors such as nursing position, grooming and time spent in close proximity. Some mothers were highly attentive, while others were less so.
Researchers also measured stress levels using salivary cortisol. More attentive mothers showed higher baseline stress and stronger reactions when separated from their puppies.
When the puppies were evaluated about two years later, those with more attentive mothers were less likely to succeed as guide dogs. Puppies whose mothers nursed while lying down — giving easy access to milk — were also less likely to complete training.
Why might that be? When a mother stands to nurse, puppies must work to reach her, introducing small, manageable challenges. Those early obstacles, researchers suggest, may help build resilience needed later in life.
(If that sounds familiar, there may be a lesson here for raising independent, successful children.)
In a second phase of the study, dogs aged 14 to 17 months were tested for cognition and temperament.
One exercise required solving a multistep task to reach a treat, while others measured reactions to unfamiliar stimuli, such as a suddenly opening umbrella or a mechanical toy.
Dogs that remained calm, solved problems efficiently and were slower to react to new objects were more likely to succeed in training. Researchers also found that cognition and temperament were closely linked.
“People talk about them as though
they’re separate but we know that they’re related,” Bray said. “If you give dogs a puzzle box but they’re so neophobic that they won’t even approach it, they’re not going to be able to solve it.”
Researchers say more work is needed to determine why highly attentive mothers were more likely to have puppies that did not complete the program. Possible explanations include learned anxiety, environmental factors or genetics.
“With mothering, it seems like it’s a delicate balance,” Bray said. “It’s easy to be like, ‘Oh, smothering moms are the worst,’ but we aren’t exactly sure of the mechanisms yet and we don’t want to tip too far in the other direction either.”
By Karen Bloom
Spring has surely sprung (at last) — and we’re very much attuned to Earth Month as we embrace the outdoors. It’s great get out and about and not feel so housebound, which leads many of us to rethink how we use our outdoor space. The season definitely invites us outside, offering a chance to reconnect with nature right at home and shape a backyard that works for everyday living.
Start by considering how your yard can better serve your household. Maybe you’re envisioning a space for easy entertaining, a safer play area for kids and pets, or simply a peaceful retreat to unwind. Increasingly, homeowners are embracing “backyarding” — bringing indoor comforts like dining, lounging and even workouts into the open air.
A little planning now can pay off all season long, with vibrant blooms, fresh herbs and a space that feels both functional and inviting.
“With the season’s first signs appearing, this is the time to prepare your garden for months of enjoyment,” garden design expert Fiona Jenkins says.
Here are her practical tips for creating a beautiful, low-maintenance yard that doesn’t demand all your free time.
When it comes to flower beds, smaller is often smarter. Narrow beds — about one to two feet wide — are easier to plant, maintain and keep looking tidy.
Limiting plant variety can also make a big difference. Sticking to a handful of dependable options helps you better handle their needs and simplifies care. Hardy perennials such as geraniums and peonies, along with evergreen shrubs, offer reliable color year after year without the need for constant replanting.
“Once established, these plants can provide lasting beauty with minimal effort,” Jenkins says. “Just be
sure you understand their watering, feeding and pruning needs before planting.”
Healthy soil is the backbone of any successful garden. Investing in rich, organic soil — and refreshing it annually with compost — helps plants thrive while reducing the necessity of frequent watering and fertilizing.
Mulch is another essential. A layer of organic material such as bark, leaves or compost helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature and keep weeds in check — all while improving soil quality over time.
“Mulching is a great way of protecting your soil and making it last longer by helping to maintain moisture levels and prevent weeds from growing,” she explains.
Incorporating hard surfaces like decking, patios or walkways can transform a backyard into a more usable living space. These elements provide structure, define different zones and create natural gathering areas.
Composite decking remains a popular choice for its durability and low maintenance, while natural stone, concrete or porcelain pavers offer a clean, timeless look.
Thoughtful additions like built-in lighting can extend the use of your yard into the evening, adding both safety and ambiance.
For visual interest with minimal upkeep, consider a rock garden. Combining alpine plants or succulents with layered stones and pebbles creates texture and dimension — without demanding much attention.
Raised beds are a practical solution for both flowers and vegetables. They help contain plant growth, improve drainage and make gardening more accessible. Whether placed over existing soil or integrated into a patio design, they also serve as attractive focal points.
“A raised flower bed will stop them from spreading out of control and add a focal point of interest to your garden,” Jenkins says.
Let
For a softer, more natural look, consider embracing a slightly “wild” aesthetic. Swapping part of a traditional lawn for a meadow-style area can reduce maintenance while supporting pollinators.
“This isn’t to say you should let it grow completely out of control, but your garden can look beautiful with the aesthetic of a grassy meadow rather than an urban space,” she continues.
Scattering wildflower seeds introduces bursts of color and attracts bees and butterflies, creating a lively, ever-changing landscape that benefits the local ecosystem.
With thoughtful choices and a bit of early effort, your backyard can become one of your favorite places to spend time this season and throughout the year — a space that feels as welcoming and comfortable as any room inside your home.
The acclaimed national touring showcase returns with a curated showcase of standout short films — many seen by the local audience for the first time. Presented by Asbury Shorts, the New York City-based long-running short film exhibitor, the program highlights an eclectic mix, including film festival favorites and Oscar-recognized selections. The dynamic lineup spans genres, from sharp comedies like “The Tailor,” where culture and confusion collide on a Brooklyn street (pictured), to compelling dramas, inventive animation and occasional thoughtprovoking documentaries. This is a rare opportunity to experience these cinematic “hidden gems” in a true theater setting — films that often don’t reach traditional big screens. These shorts provide a window into emerging filmmakers alongside early works from directors who go on to achieve major acclaim.
Friday, April 17, 7 p.m. Madison Theatre, Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. Tickets available at madisontheatreny. org or (516) 323-4444.
Micky Dolenz celebrates the 60th anniversary of The Monkees with a special tour honoring the band’s enduring legacy and timeless sound. In this nostalgic and high-spirited performance, Dolenz takes audiences on a musical journey through The Monkees’ rise to fame, performing their biggest hits in chronological order while sharing personal stories from his decades in entertainment — as he keeps the music alive for new generations As the last surviving member of the beloved group, Dolenz brings both heart and history to the stage, paying tribute to bandmates Davy Jones, Peter Tork and Michael Nesmith, while celebrating the fans who helped transform a fictional TV band into a global sensation. This is sure to be a heartfelt, hit-filled evening that blends music, memories and a lasting connection to one of pop culture’s most iconic acts.
Sunday, April 19, 8 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.
Vanderbilt Museum welcomes everyone to enjoy the exhibition of outdoor sculpture at the historic summer estate of William Kissam Vanderbilt II. Klemperer’s sculptures. a haunting assemblage of animal forms that span imaginary, endangered, familiar, and exotic species, celebrate natural history and the nonhuman world through evocative interactions with the surrounding environment. Using materials salvaged from scrapyards, she composes ecological narratives that respond to the history and collections of Suffolk County’s first public park and museum. Her brilliant use of gestural lines captures the spectator’s attention and invites museum-goers to reflect on the relationship between an interest in animal life and the incessant push of human industry. Visitors are encouraged to picnic on the grounds.
• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport
• Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Contact: vanderbiltmuseum. org or call (631) 854-5579
Raymond: Celebrating 30 Years’
Visit the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame for an immersive exhibit (designed by LIMEHOF Creative Director, renowned designer Kevin O’Callaghan). It features the 70-foot-wide set from the show’s recent 30th anniversary TV special on CBS, never before on display. Visitors can walk into the world of the Barone family and explore their home through original studio sets, which include the living room, the kitchen and other areas of the house. Also see a variety of iconic items, including original clothing, the famous fork and spoon, and the Christmas toaster, among other classic items from the series. Multimedia clips, including behind the scenes and rare out-takes and a range of related videos play in LIMEHOF’s surround sound theater.
• Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook
• Time: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
• Contact: limusichalloffame.org or (631) 689-5888
Babylon Zoning Board of Appeals meets The Town of Babylon holds a Zoning Board of Appeals meeting. All are welcome to attend.
• Where: Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 E.
Episcopal Church. All are welcome to attend.
• Where: 12 Prospect St., Babylon
• Time: 5-6:30 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 661-5757
Transforming The Self: Finding Peace In Challenging Time
Take part in Part II of the Experiencing the Soul Series. Each of us has unique gifts and a special place and purpose in this world. Too often, however, our lives are overwhelmed with anxiety, adversity, and depression. Learn how to better find peace in these challenging times through this workshop. This event is free of charge but registration required. All are welcome.
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington .
• Time: 7:30 p.m.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
Chazz Palminteri is back on the Paramount stage with his electrifying solo performance of “A Bronx Tale,” the autobiographical one-man show that launched his remarkable career. Raw, riveting and deeply personal, the play draws on Palminteri’s own bruising childhood in the Bronx, including the moment — at just nine-years-old — when he witnessed a gangland killing that would forever shape his view of the world. Onstage, Palminteri inhabits 18 vividly drawn characters, seamlessly shifting between friends, foes and family members to conjure an entire neighborhood with nothing but his voice, physicality and storytelling prowess. First written and performed in 1989, A Bronx Tale quickly became a sensation, hailed as one of the most sought-after stage properties since Rocky. The original production paved the way for the acclaimed film adaptation — directed by Robert De Niro—and later a hit Broadway musical. Born and raised in the Bronx, Palminteri stands firmly in the lineage of iconic Italian-American artists who redefined New York storytelling in the 1970s, including Martin Scorsese, De Niro, Al Pacino and Joe Pesci. Like them, he brings grit, muscle and an unflinching realism to his work, capturing both the violence and the humanity of life on those sidewalks. This return engagement offers audiences a chance to experience the original, powerhouse performance that started it all — up close, uncompromising and unforgettable.
Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst
• Time: 6 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 957-3012
APR 17
Thrift Shop
Stop by Simpson United Methodist Church’s Thrift Shop for some unique finds.
• Where: 30 Locust Ave., Amityville
• Time: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 789-2569
Stop by St. Mary’s Thrift Shop to check out some found treasures. Choose from collectibles, glassware, clothing and other gently used items.
• Where: St. Mary’s, 175 Broadway, Amityville (enter from rear parking lot)
• Time: 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 464-4899
Church Attic Thrift Shop
• Where: 25 Broadway, APR 18
Visit First United Methodist Church for their weekly thrift shop.
Amityville
• Time: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 264-0152 or email amitychurch1792@gmail.com
Mindful Art
19
Join local poet, author, and activist Erica Settino for an intimate event at Vanderbilt Museum drawing from her poetry chapbook “The Life Forest.” This collection explores her late-diagnosed autism and ADHD, reverence for nature, and the wild roots of creativity. The gathering will be conversational, educational and experiential. Begin with selected readings and an honest discussion about neurodivergence, identity, and reclaiming creativity as a means of personal expression later in life. Then move into a gentle, guided mindful arts workshop where you’ll be invited to create from your own inner landscape—no artistic experience required. Registration required. $25 adults and youth ($22.50 members).
• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport
• Time: 10 a.m.-noon
• Contact: vanderbiltmuseum.org or call (631) 854-5579
Arrizza Under The Stars Vanderbilt Museum welcomes all to a live concert experience inside the Reichert Planetarium featuring local, award-winning composer and musician Yannaki Arrizza. He performs music inspired by his albums, Astronomia and Voyage to Eternity. Arrizza’s sound is a cinematic blend of brilliant electronic soundscapes: shimmering digital textures, warm analog synthesizers, and pulsing modern production that evokes the bold synth tones of ’70s and ’80s science-fiction films, while venturing into deeper electronic and ambient realms. The music feels thoughtprovoking, hopeful, mysterious, and moody; perfectly suited for a journey beyond the everyday. $35 in advance, $40 at door ($30 members).
• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: vanderbiltmuseum.org or call (631) 854-5579
Nourish
20
Babylon SitDown Dinner
Every Monday Nourish Babylon holds a sitdown dinner at Christ
• Where: 79 County Line Road, Amityville
• Time: 7-9 p.m.
• Contact: sos.org/ event/findingpeaceNYapr21/?prev=AmityvilleE or (631) 822-7979
MAY
16
Italian Food Festival
The Town of Babylon once again hosts their Italian Food Festival. Entertainment includes Angelo Venuto, Maria Venuto, Carmelo Raccuglia and DJ Domenick. With the La Famiglia Cadillac Club, food vendors and a kid zone. Bring a pasta or sauce donation to support Councilman Manetta’s 8th Annual Pasta and Sauce Food Drive. Additional parking with free shuttle bus service at Lindenhurst Train Station. Rain date is May 17.
• Where: Great Lawn at the Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst
• Time: Noon-5 p.m.
• Contact: For more information or to become a vendor, call Councilman Manetta’s office at (631) 957-4482
Having an event?
Items on the Calendar page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to kbloom@ liherald.com.
FREE community event focused on health, wellness, and lifestyle
Meet trusted local exhibitors and service providers
Take advantage of on-site health screenings
Enjoy lively entertainment, fitness demonstrations and interactive experiences
Hear from experts during a panel discussion with Q&A Win raffles, prizes, and giveaways
Snack station for all
*Boxed lunches for first 150 attendees
All designed to help you stay active, informed, and engaged at every stage of life.
Register for this FREE event: Seaford.eventbrite.com or email rbamgbose@liherald.com or call 516.569.4000 x273 AGENDA:
PANEL + Q&A RAFFLE DRAWINGS MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN
Notice of Formation of ENCLAVE HOMES LLC
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/14/2025
Office location: County of Suffolk. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a process served to: ENCLAVE HOMES LLC, 216 E State Street, Suite 100, Trenton, NJ 08608 Purpose: any lawful act.
26-57 3/11, 18, 25, 4/1, 8, 15
Notice of formation of EMILY EVER AFTER
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SS Y) on 02/08/2026
Office location, County of Suffolk SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a process served to:
Emily Ever After 6 Albert Road Amityville, NY 11701
Purpose: any lawful act.
26-58. 3/18, 25, 4/1, 8, 15, 22
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
- COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
OCWEN LOAN SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff, Against
YINKA DANIEL, TOWN SUPERVISOR
Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 07/19/2022, I, the un-
dersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757, on 4/30/2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 31 Croydon Road, Amityville, New York 11701, and described as follows:
ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Amityville, in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York.
District 0100 Section 175.00 Block 01.00 Lot 008.000
The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $453,494.35 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 620212/2017
James A. Pascarella, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573
Dated: 3/12/2026 File Number: 17-301761 CA
26-74. 4/1, 8, 15, 22
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. Sketch Imprint LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 03/15/26. NY Office location: Suffolk County. SSNY has been designated as an agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: 6 Bank Ct Greenlawn, NY 11740
Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity.
26-64. 3/25, 4/1, 8,15, 22, 29
Legal Ad
Please visit www.amityville.gov to view full RFQ proposal. Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for Preliminary Engineering, Detailed Design Services, and Construction Support and Inspection for Stormwater and Roadway Improvements in the Village of Amityville. [choose applicable phases – include all phases you may need for the project duration]
The Village of Amityville is seeking qualified engineering firms to provide professional design services for the Stormwater and Drainage Improvements, encompassing roadway elevation improvements, reconstruction, and drainage infrastructure upgrades within the following project limits:
• Shore Road, Shore Drive West, and Berger Avenue
• South Bayview Avenue street end, north of the James Caples Memorial Park, from the park entrance to the bulkhead in the vicinity of Victoria Drive
The Village of Amityville was awarded a grant from the New York State Disaster Recovery Grant Reporting (DRGR), under the US Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery (CDBGDR) program for redevelopment efforts. This project will be fully funded with Federal funds and is subject to the Federal laws and regulations associated with the CDBG-DR program.
By Order of the Board of Trustees
Village of Amityville Catherine C. Murdock
Village Clerk/Treasurer
26-84. 4/8, 15
PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Budget Hearing will be conducted by the Board of Trustees of the Village of Amityville on Monday, April 27, 2026 at 7:00 PM in the third floor court room of Village Hall, 21 Ireland Pl., Amityville, NY.
By Order of the Board of Trustees Village of Amityville Catherine C. Murdock
Village Clerk/Treasurer
26-83. 4/8, 15
NOTICE OF FORMATION of
Ellani Beauty LLC. Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 4/23/2020 Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to 80G Montauk Hwy, Suite 2, Amityville NY 11701. Purpose: any lawful act.
26-79. 4/1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 5/6
SUPREME
COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK INDEX NO. 619832/2025
COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
Plaintiff designates SUFFOLK as the place of trial situs of the real property
SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS
Mortgaged Premises: 41 SOUTH 31ST STREET, WYANDANCH, NY 11798
District: 0100, Section: 054.00, Block: 04.00, Lot: 019.002
MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. LAWRENCE SCOTT, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ANNA-
BELLE SCOTT; ERIC SCOTT, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ANNABELLE SCOTT; VALENCIO BLACKWOOD, JR., AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ANNABELLE SCOTT; CARL ANTHONY BLACKWOOD, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ANNABELLE SCOTT; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF ANNABELLE SCOTT, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; SUSTAINABLE NEIGHBORHOODS LLC; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMER-
ICA, "JOHN DOE #1" through "JOHN DOE #12," the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, Defendants.
To the above named Defendants
YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you.
NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT
THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $352,500.00 and interest, recorded on February 14, 2007, in Liber M00021476 at Page 599, of the Public Records of SUFFOLK County, New York., covering premises
known as 41 SOUTH 31ST STREET, WYANDANCH, NY 11798.
The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.
SUFFOLK County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county.
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.
Dated: March 17th, 2026
ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC
Attorney for Plaintiff Matthew Rothstein, Esq.
900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590
516-280-7675
26-67 3/25, 4/1, 8, 15
The Town of Babylon Rental Review Board will hold a Public Hearing at The Town of Babylon 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York (East Wing Board Room) on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at 6:00pm NEW APPLICATION
1. Herbert Alexander 28 Sword St. West Babylon NY 11704
SCTM NO: 0100105-1-76
2.Majestic Land LLC
125 W. 11th St. Deer Park NY 11729
SCTM NO: 010062-4-3
RENEWALS
1. Jose Abrigo
802 Bayview Ave. Amityville NY 11701
SCTM NO: 0100169-3-2.006
2. CB 1D LLC
35 Winter Ave. Wheatley Heights NY 11798
SCTM NO: 0100-40-1-132
3. CB 1C LLC
43 Beech St. Wyandanch NY 11798
SCTM NO: 010083-2-99 26-86 4/15
Continued from previous page publicarán en el tablón de anuncios del Distrito que se mantendrán para avisos públicos, así como en la página web del Distrito.
SE DA AVISO
ADICIONAL que las solicitudes de nominación de candidatos para el cargo de miembro de la Junta de Educación deben presentarse ante el Secretario del Distrito Escolar abajo firmante a más tardar el 20 de abril de 2026 a las 5:00 p.m. Cada vacante que deba llenarse se considerará una oficina separada. Se requerirá una petición por separado para nominar a un candidato a cada oficina por separado.
Cada petición debe dirigirse al Secretario del Distrito Escolar y debe estar firmada por al menos veinticinco (59) votantes calificados del distrito. Cada petición debe indicar la residencia de cada persona que firma, debe indicar el nombre y la residencia del candidato, y debe describir la vacante específica para la cual se postula el candidato, cuya descripción debe incluir al menos la duración del mandato, y el nombre del último titular, si lo hubiere. Las siguientes vacantes disponibles de La Junta de Educación de Copiague: PERÍODO EN EL CARGO
ÚLTIMA PERSONA EN EL CARGO
1 de Julio 2026 a 30 de Junio 2029
Brian J. Sales
1 de Julio 2026 a 30 de Junio 2029
Ledy Torres SE DA AVISO
ADICIONAL, de que se enviará una petición para presentar una propuesta en la boleta electoral ante el Secretario del Distrito
antes del 20 de abril de 2026 a más tardar a las 5:00 pm, a excepto de las solicitudes relacionadas con una propuesta que deberán incluirse en el aviso de la reunión anual. Tales peticiones deben presentarse 60 días antes de la reunión anual para facilitar la preparación e impresión de las boletas. Esta regla no se aplicará a aquellas proposiciones o preguntas que la Junta tiene autoridad por ley para presentar en cualquier reunión anual o especial y elección del distrito. Excepto por lo dispuesto por la ley, dicha petición deberá indicar dicha pregunta o proposición de manera clara y concisa, y deberá estar firmada por al menos treinta (30) votantes calificados de este distrito y deberá mostrar la dirección de cada firmante y la fecha de la firma.
La Junta de Educación se reserva el derecho de determinar la redacción exacta de la pregunta o proposición tal como aparece en la boleta electoral; y además reserva todos los poderes otorgados a la Junta de Educación por la Ley de Educación para determinar si alguna pregunta o proposición se presentará en una reunión o elección del Distrito y para determinar el orden en que cada pregunta o proposición debe aparecer en la boleta electoral.
SE DA AVISO
ADICIONAL que, de conformidad con la Sección 2014 de la Ley de Educación, se requiere el registro personal de los votantes.
SE DA AVISO
ADICIONAL que los votantes en la Elección de Presupuesto / Elección de los Miembros de la Junta de la
Escuela Copiague del 19 de mayo de 1998 aprobaron el registro continuo de votantes. Los votantes calificados pueden registrarse de manera continua de la siguiente manera: La inscripción se llevará a cabo de lunes a viernes de 9:00 a.m. a 3:00 p.m. durante el año escolar, y de 9:00 a.m. a 1:00 p.m. durante los recreos escolares en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito, Oficina de Administración Central, 2650 Great Neck Road, Copiague, excepto que no se permitirá el registro después de siete (7) días antes de la elección. El registro de votantes también se llevará a cabo el sábado 9 de mayo de 2026 de 8:00 a.m. a 12:00 p.m. en la Escuela Primaria Deauville Gardens, 100 Deauville Blvd, Copiague, NY 11726
Cualquier persona cuyo nombre aparezca en dicho registro o que se haya registrado anteriormente en el presente documento o que haya votado en cualquier reunión o elección anual o especial del distrito celebrada o llevada a cabo en cualquier momento dentro de los cuatro (4) años anteriores a la preparación del registro para esta Elección Anual del Distrito no tendrá que registrarse personalmente para esta Elección Anual del Distrito.
Además, cualquier persona que califique para votar y que esté registrada en la Junta de Elecciones del Condado de Suffolk bajo las disposiciones de la Ley de Elecciones tendrá derecho a votar en dicha Elección Anual sin más registro.
SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, que la Junta de Educación ha adoptado debidamente una resolución que estipula las papeletas de voto
en ausencia para la elección de los miembros de la Junta de Educación, la adopción del Presupuesto del Distrito Escolar y cualquier otra propuesta de acuerdo con las disposiciones de la Sección 2018-a de la Ley de Educación del Estado de Nueva York. El solicitante de una boleta de votación en ausencia o anticipada por correo debe presentar una solicitud, por lo tanto, debe establecer la información requerida por la subdivisión 2 de la Sección 2018-a de la Ley de Educación y articulo 2018-e de la ley de Educación respectivamente. Las solicitudes de boletas en ausencia o anticipada por correo deben ser recibidas por el Secretario Del Distrito no antes de treinta (30) días antes de la elección. Además, dicha solicitud debe ser recibida por el Secretario del Distrito por lo menos siete días antes de la elección si la boleta se envía por correo al votante, o el día antes de la elección si la boleta se entrega personalmente al votante o su agente designado. Al recibir una solicitud oportuna para una boleta de votación en ausencia enviada por correo o boleta anticipada por correo, el Secretario del Distrito enviara la boleta por correo a la dirección establecida en la solicitud a más tardar seis (6) días antes de la votación. No se votará ninguna boleta de votante ausente o boleta anticipada a menos que se haya recibido en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. (hora predominante) en el día de la elección. SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL que los votantes militares que no están actualmente reg-
istrados pueden registrarse como votantes calificados del distrito escolar. Los votantes militares que son votantes calificados del distrito escolar pueden presentar una solicitud para una boleta militar. Los votantes militares pueden designar una preferencia para recibir un registro de votante militar, una solicitud de boleta militar o una boleta militar por correo, transmisión de fax o correo electrónico en su solicitud de dicho registro, solicitud de boleta o boleta. Los formularios de inscripción de votantes militar y los formularios de solicitud de boletas militares deben recibirse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito del distrito escolar a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. el 23 de abril de 2026. NO se realizará una votación militares militar a menos que se (1) reciba en la oficina del Secretaria del Distrito antes del cierre de las urnas el día de las elecciones y muestre una marca de cancelación del servicio postal de los Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o que muestre un endoso de recepción fechado por otra agencia del gobierno delos Estados Unidos; o (2) recibido por la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. el día de las elecciones y firmado y fechado por el votante militar y un testigo del mismo, con una fecha que se asocia a no más tardar del día anterior a la elección.
SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL de que las calificaciones de los votantes en las reuniones o elecciones del Distrito Escolar son las siguientes: Una persona tendrá derecho a votar en
cualquier elección escolar para la elección de las Oficinas del Distrito Escolar y sobre todo los demás asuntos que puedan plantearse antes de tal elección quien es: (1) Ciudadano de los Estados Unidos (2)18 años de edad (3)Un residente dentro del distrito por un período de treinta días antes de cualquier votación que se vaya a dar (4)En virtud de las provisiones de la Sec. 5-106 de la Ley Electoral.
SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, de que el Registro, tal como lo preparó la Junta de Registro, se archivará en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar que está abajo firmante y estará abierto para la inspección por parte de cualquier votante calificado del Distrito y las horas durante las cuales dicho registro estará abierto para inspección en cada uno de los cinco días (sábado con cita previa) antes de la fecha establecida para la Elección Anual del Distrito, excepto el domingo o feriados, serán 9:00 am a 4:00 pm
SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL de que se llevará a cabo una audiencia pública sobre la propuesta del presupuesto el martes 5 de mayo de 2026 a las 7:00 p.m. en las oficinas administrativas
Everett E. Newman III en el salón de conferencias, 2650 Great Neck Road, Copiague, NY 11726. Por orden de la Junta de Educación Distrito Escolar de Copiague Ciudad de Babylon, Condado de, New York
Deborah Van Florcke Secretaria de Distrito 26-69. 4/1, 15, 29, 5/6
REFEREE'S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE
SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
LNV CORPORATION, Plaintiffagainst - AFRIKA C. PARKS, et al Defendant(s).
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on March 5, 2026. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on the 18th day of May, 2026 at 12:30 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk, and State of New York.
Premises known as 2 Biel Dr., Amityville, NY 11701.
(Section: 171.00, Block: 02.00, Lot: 067.000)
Approximate amount of lien $380,653.17 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.
Index No. 207754/2022. Pamela Greene, Esq., Referee. Stein, Wiener & Roth LLP
Attorney(s) for Plaintiff
1400 Old Country Road, Suite 315 Westbury, NY 11590 Tel. 516/742-1212
Dated: March 18, 2026
During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any sub-
sequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. Auction Locations are subject to change.
26-85 - 4/15, 22, 29, 5/6
THE EXAMINATION OF ASSESSMENT INVENTORY AND VALUATION DATA
(Pursuant to Section 501 of the Real Property Tax Law) Notice is hereby given that the assessment inventory and valuation data is the information that will be used to establish the assessment of each parcel which will appear on the Tentative Assessment Roll of the Town of Babylon, which will be filed on or before May 1, 2026. This information may be reviewed, by appointment, in the Assessor’s office on Thursday, April 23, 2026 between the hours of 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM and Friday, April 24, 2026 between the hours of 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM. An appointment to review the assessment information may be made by calling the Assessor’s office at (631) 957-3015.
Dated: April 1, 2026
Matthew R. Cronin, IAO
Assessor 26-88 - 4/15, 22
April 15, 2026 —
NOTICE OF PUBLIC AND/OR INFORMATIONAL HEARINGS BY THE TOWN OF BABYLON PLANNING BOARD
Pursuant to Chapter 186, Site Plan Review, and Chapter 213, Zoning, of the Babylon Town Code and Section 276 of the Town Law, notice is hereby given that the Town of Babylon Planning Board will hold public and/or informational hearings(s) at the Babylon Town Hall, Town Board Room, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York, on the Monday, April 20, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. prevailing time or as soon thereafter as can be heard to consider the following application(s):
PUBLIC HEARING/ MINOR SUBDIVI -
SION
JOB# HPLN-77 (2549B); MR Property Builders, LLC.: SCTM# 0100-164-03-038 and 0100-164-03-039.005:
Zone – Residence B: SEQRA - Unlisted Action, Uncoordinated Review: Applicant proposes to subdivide and reconfigure two (2) lots into two (2) new lots in order to construct a new two-story single-family dwelling on Lot #2 and legally maintain the existing two-story single-family dwelling on Lot #1.: Property is located on the southeast corner of Campbell Street and Williams Avenue, North Amityville, Suffolk County, Town of Babylon, New York
PUBLIC HEARING/ MINOR SUBDIVISION
JOB# HPLN-49 (2551B); 44 Sawyer Avenue Corp.: SCTM# 0100-210-02-048: Zone – Residence C: SEQRA - Unlisted Action, Uncoordinated Review: The applicant is proposing to subdivide a 15,000sf lot
into two (2) 7,500sf lots in order to construct a new two-story, single-family dwelling on Lot #1 and legally maintain the existing two-story, singlefamily dwelling on Lot #2.: Property is located on the south side of Sawyer Avenue, 100' west of Norton Avenue, West Babylon, Suffolk County, Town of Babylon, New York
All interested persons should appear at the above time and place by order of Patrick Halpin, Chairperson of the Planning Board, Town of Babylon, North Lindenhurst, Suffolk County, New York
PRINTING INSTRUCTIONS
Amityville Record: 04/15/26
Babylon Beacon: 04/16/26 26-87 4/15
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
TOWN OF BABYLON - ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
Pursuant to Chapter 213, Article II of the Building Zone Ordinance of the Town of Babylon, notice is hereby given that the Town of Babylon Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a Public Hearing at TOWN BOARD ROOM
(Located in the East Wing) at Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York
on THURSDAY, APRIL 30, 2026
BEGINNING AT 6:00 P.M.
6:00 p.m.
1. Application #26-57
Lori Farina (Trustee)/ Ann Marie Gasparek Family Trust, 50 Independence Avenue, North Babylon, NY.
Permission to diminish side yard setback
from 10’ to 7.9’; diminish total side yards from 25’ to 15.7’. All in connection with legally maintaining interior alterations and a raised rear deck addition. Property located on the south side of Independence Avenue, 915’ east of Deer Park Avenue, North Babylon, NY.
SCTM#0100-1622-18
Zoning District: Residence C
6:05 p.m.
2. Application #26-56
Joseph and Theresa Orecchio, 29 Haight Street, Deer Park, NY.
Permission to increase total building area from 20% to 35.45% (over by 1,544.58 sq. ft.); diminish distance to west side lot line from 8’ to 1.5’ (for accessory building (shed #1)); diminish distance to rear lot line from 8’ to 4.9’ (for accessory building (shed #1)); diminish distance to west side lot line from 2’ to 0.6’ (for shed #2); diminish west side yard setback from 12’ to 11.7’ (for outside cellar entrance); allow an outside cellar entrance in the side yard, a non-permitted location; diminish distance from front street line from 40’ to 8’ at Union Avenue (for proposed pool); allow a 6’ high fence beyond the front building line at Union Avenue. All in connection with the proposed installation of an in-ground pool, paver patio, and to legally maintain two (2) sheds and an outside cellar entrance. Property located on the northwest corner of Haight Street and Union Avenue, Deer Park, NY.
SCTM#0100-42-3-
83
Zoning District: Residence B
6:10 p.m.
3. Application #26-58
Jason M. Lamberti and Amanda C. Pedone,
143 Oak Street, Deer Park, NY. Permission to diminish front yard setback from 30’ to 18.3’ (for front porch); diminish side yards from 12’ to 6’; diminish distance to side lot line from 8’ to 2.9’ (for accessory building (shed #1)); diminish distance to rear lot line from 8’ to 0.2’ (for accessory building (shed #1)). All in connection with the erection of a one-story side addition, one-story rear addition, roof over front porch, and to legally maintain two (2) sheds. Property located on the south side of Oak Street, 350’ east of Jefferson Avenue, Deer Park, NY.
SCTM#0100-18-284
Zoning District: Residence B 6:15 p.m.
4. Application #26-55 61 Commerce Boulevard Amityville, LLC (prop. owner), 61 Commerce Boulevard, Amityville, NY. Permission to diminish off-street parking from fifteen (15) parking stalls required to eight (8) parking stalls provided; allow outside storage for vehicles as per site plan. All in connection with an existing one-story building. Property located on the north side of Commerce Boulevard, 1,42906’ east of Great Neck Road, Amityville, NY.
SCTM#0100-1722-35.002
Zoning District: Industry G 6:20 p.m.
5. Application #26-44 SM (NY) QRS 14-93, Inc. (prop. owner), 1000 New Horizons Boulevard, North Amityville, NY. Permission to increase maximum impervious area from 70% permitted to 72.70% provided; diminish landscaping requirement from 30% required to 27.30% provided; di-
minish off-street parking from four hundred and five (405) stalls required to two hundred eighty (280) parking stalls (including 183 land banked spaces) provided; increase allowable number of front yard parking from nine (9) stalls permitted to one-hundred and twelve (112) provided (including 35 land banked spaces); increase number of maximum allowable loading berths from twenty-two (22) permitted to fifty-four (54) provided. All in connection with the demolition of a portion of an existing building and to create four (4) new tenant spaces. Property located on the west side of New Horizons Boulevard, 204.37’ south of Seabro Avenue, North Amityville, NY.
SCTM#0100126.01-1-3.001
Zoning District: Planned Industrial Park
ALL PERSONS OR THEIR DULY APPOINTED REPRESENTATIVE MUST APPEAR IN PERSON AT THE ABOVE HEARING. ALL CASES WILL BE HEARD IN THE ORDER IN WHICH THEY ARE ADVERTISED, TO BE FOLLOWED BY ADJOURNED CASES. BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
MICHAEL KANE, CHAIRMAN
Dated: Babylon Town Hall Lindenhurst, New York April 6, 2026 26-89. 4/15
On March 31, classes at Northeast Elementary School in Amityville took turns to meet and greet the Easter bunny.
On March 31, Northeast Elementary School in Amityville was filled with giggles, excitement, and the soft thump of little feet as the Easter Bunny made a special visit to the district’s youngest learners.
Pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students had the magical opportunity to meet and greet the Bunny, exchanging high fives, warm hugs and plenty of smiles. The celebration included an Easter-themed breakfast and a fun-filled Easter egg hunt, giving students a chance to search for colorful eggs and enjoy sweet treats. Teachers joined in the festive fun, sporting playful rabbit ears alongside their students, while many little learners proudly wore their own ears as they hopped along with the Easter excitement.
This annual visit is a beloved tradition at Northeast, bringing joy, laughter and a touch of spring magic to the school community,” said Gina Talbert, superintendent of schools. “ It’s a heartwarming reminder of the special moments that make early childhood education so memorable.
AFFORDABLE
In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-782-4069
WENDY'S CLEANING SERVICES INC. Commercial/Residential. We Specialize In Houses, Apartments, Offices, Airbnb & More. Good References. Free Estimates. Call/Text Wendy 516-406-5375 Or Email wencruzpa@gmail.com
Electricians
E-Z ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC.
All Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas. Services/Repairs. Violations Removed. Free Estimates Low Rates. 516-785-0646 Lic/Ins.
PAINTING & HANDYMAN SERVICE
Tired of calling a contractor & they don't call back? I will call you back the same day! 917-822-0225 Ricky
Specializing in carpentry, bathrooms, kitchens, sheetrock, flooring, electric, plumbing. Over 25 yrs exp.Lic/Ins H3805150000
BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-833-807-0159
DO YOU KNOW what's in your water?
Leaf Home Water Solutions offers FREE water testing and whole home water treatment systems that can be installed in as little one day. 15% off your entire purchase. Plus 10% senior & military discounts. Restrictions apply. Schedule your FREE test today. Call 1-866-247-5728
PREPARE FOR POWER outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-877-516-1160 today to schedule a free quote. It's not just a generator. It's a power move.
PREPARE FOR POWER outages with Briggs & Stratton® PowerProtect(TM) standby generators - the most powerful home standby generators available. Industry-leading comprehensive warranty - 7 years ($849 value.) Proudly made in the U.S.A. Call Briggs & Stratton 1-888-605-1496
SAFE STEP. NORTH America's #1 WalkIn Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-855-916-5473
GET BOOST INFINITE! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 844-329-9391
POWERWASHING ALL SURFACES: Houses, Fences, Concrete/ Brick, Decks/Sealing. ANTHONY & J HOME IMPROVEMENT, INC. 516-678-6641
AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER?
STORM DAMAGE? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-833-880-7679
INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT? Don't Accept the insurance company's first offer. Many injured parties are entitled to major cash settlements. Get a free evaluation to see what your case is really worth. 100% Free Evaluation. Call Now: 1-833-323-0318. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest provider.
PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-833-549-0598 Have zip code of property ready when calling!
LAWN SPRINKLERS
Installed & Serviced. Repairs, Installations, Upgrades. EARLY SPRING SPECIALS! 0% FREE FINANCING! FREE WIFI TIMER ($550 Value) w/Any New Sprinkler System Installation Completed by 4/30/26. Call for Details. Satisfying Customers For Over 44 Years. Licensed & Insured. COUNTY IRRIGATION 515-255-9595 www.countyirrigation.com
Telephone Services
CONSUMER CELLULAR - the same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-844-919-1682
Tree Services
T&M GREENCARE TREE SERVICE
*TREE REMOVAL *STUMP GRINDING *PRUNING. FREE ESTIMATES. 516-223-4525, 631-586-3800 www.tmgreencare.com
Satellite/TV Equipment
DIRECTV- All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Directv and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918
Health & Fitness
ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-833-661-4172
ATTENTION: VIAGRA AND CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 1-833-641-6397
HONDA ACCORD 2012: Black, 4 Door, 103,000 Miles, Safe, Dependable And Smooth Ride. Excellent On Gas, Very Clean And Well Maintained. $6,500 Negotiable. Call 516-225-7745
Autos Wanted
***AAA*** AUTO BUYERS
$Highest$ Ca$h Paid$. All Years/ Conditions! WE VISIT YOU! Or Donate, Tax Deduct + Ca$h. DMV ID#1303199. Call LUKE 516-VAN-CARS. 516-297-2277
DONATE YOUR CAR today, running or not. Support Patriotic Hearts for our Veterans and their Families! Free fast pickup. Max tax deduction. Se habla Español. Call now: 844-415-1229
GET A BREAK on your taxes! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, nocost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-855-484-3467 today!
WE BUY 8,000 cars a week. Sell your old, busted or junk car with no hoops, haggles or headaches. Sell your car to Peddle. Easy three step process. Instant offer. Free pickup. Fast payment. Call 1-855-403-3374
Junk Cars Wanted
Q. I saw a billboard and several TV commercials for something called “Let Them Build, NY” and was wondering what you could tell me about it. The commercial said that there is an extra $82,000 spent on housing, per home, just due to government red tape. Is this true, and is anything being done about it?
A. As I continue to answer this delicate and complicated question, I have to respond to people who called this column, over the years, just an advertisement. I’ve received criticism and pushback for nearly four decades because I’ve pointed out where changes needed to happen, in a constructive manner. Instead of causing positive change, I saw projects delayed, passive-aggressive behavior and extra tasks thrown at me that weren’t required by others. It hasn’t been easy, and this is hopefully a forum for positive reflection on how to improve our lives, not just criticism. I will never just complain about a problem without stating that there is a solution.
The cost of building has gone up. It should be understood by all that building safety requirements should never be ignored. The problem with cost increases is that delays, due to issues that have nothing to do with safety, are a part of the problem, not the solution.
For example, the average project starts out with research. There are many issues that must be addressed, from environmental conditions, such as ground water levels, to parking and zoning use, structural conditions and fire safety. Local government archives information about each property, yet when it comes time to request the records, many have stumbling blocks, such as Freedom of Information Law, or FOIL, requests that can sometimes take weeks. Then, when you get the information, it is often inaccurate sketches.
Local government expects very detailed information from professionals, to fix the information problems of the past, yet often provides inaccurate plans that hardly reflect the building. This is because as-built drawings and final surveys were neither required nor enforced. A new home has always been required to have an accurate final survey from a licensed surveyor for the initial certificate of occupancy, but the surveys in municipal records are often inaccurate sketch diagrams made by the developer, a contractor or expeditor, not a licensed professional (as was also always required). Those “plot” plans often say “prop. dwelling” (proposed) with completely useless, inaccurate information. So, after waiting, in some cases, weeks just to see the records, what you get is just a waste of time and money. Might as well hire the surveyor at the outset, something many customers are reluctant to spend for.
The playing field is definitely not level. Government should require of itself the same standards it forces on the public. Imagine getting valuable data without delays, right at the beginning of a project, instead of waiting weeks for the answer that there are no records.
Experienced developers already know to hire the surveyor, do the testing, do the zoning analysis, etc.
© 2026 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.
As we shake off the memory of one of the harshest winters in recent years, signs of rejuvenation are everywhere throughout Amityville. Landscapers are preparing lawns and gardens, homeowners are beginning long-awaited improvements, and the continued revitalization of our downtown is gaining momentum.
Our administrative staff and code enforcement officers ensure that the character and safety of the village are maintained and strengthened. We achieve that through comprehensive village codes, consistent enforcement, and cooperation from residents and business owners.
Professional licensing is one of our most important safeguards for public health, safety and quality of life. We require all landscapers operating in our community to obtain a valid license, and this requirement plays a critical role in protecting our residents and environment.
Licensed landscapers must demonstrate that they are properly trained and qualified to apply fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides safely and responsibly. These substances, while beneficial
when used correctly, can pose serious risks to people, pets and local waterways if mishandled. By ensuring that only licensed professionals do this work, we significantly reduce the likelihood of improper application, environmental harm and potential health hazards.
LIn addition to proper training, landscapers are required to carry appropriate insurance. This provides essential protection for homeowners and the public in the event of accidents or property damage. Hiring a licensed professional means that there is accountability, oversight, and recourse if something goes wrong, protections that are often absent when unlicensed operators are used.
can be far more costly to correct. Visit our website, Amityville.gov, for a list of licensed landscape businesses. (And note that we do not endorse or recommend any business listed.)
andscapers must be trained, professionally licensed and insured.
There’s also an important community-wide benefit. Licensed landscapers are held to consistent standards of professionalism as they maintain the appearance of our neighborhoods. They understand and follow local regulations, and operate equipment responsibly. Choosing a landscaper isn’t just about compliance; it’s about making a responsible investment in your property and your community. While unlicensed services may be less expensive, they often come with hidden risks, including substandard work, potential fines, liability issues, and long-term damage that
Finally, I want to emphasize the importance of code enforcement in maintaining the character of the village. Our community is defined not just by its location, but by the pride we take in our homes, our neighborhoods and our public spaces. Code enforcement helps preserve that character by addressing issues such as property maintenance, illegal uses and unapproved alterations. These efforts ensure that our neighborhoods remain safe, attractive and consistent with the standards that make the village such a special place to live.
Code enforcement is about fairness and consistency. It ensures that all property owners are held to the same standards, preventing situations in which neglect or non-compliance by a few can impact the quality of life for many. It also helps protect property values, and reinforces the sense of community that we all value.
Our Action Line on the village website is another tool that makes it possible for community members to report concerns or make helpful suggestions.
I encourage all residents, business owners and contractors to work responsibly and in accordance with village requirements. Whether you’re hiring a landscaper or maintaining your property, please take the time to ensure that proper licenses are in place and that you’re familiar with the village codes — including yard waste and grass clipping collection rules to prevent debris from scattering in the streets, storm drains or waterways.
I also ask everyone to be mindful of our impact on others and take simple steps as good neighbors. We can all contribute to beautifying the village by adhering to commonly overlooked codes — such as no overnight parking on village streets or parking of commercial vehicles overnight in residential areas, and no parking on lawns or any rightsof-way — along with following Town of Babylon waste disposal regulations (visit townofbabylonny.gov) and basic property maintenance standards. With your help and consistent enforcement, we can continue to preserve the character, safety and charm of our village for years to come. Visit the Codes section of Amityville.gov if you have any questions about village regulations. We will continue to keep you informed of any updates, and thank you for doing your part.
I wish everyone a happy and healthy spring season.
Michael O’Neill is the mayor of Amityville.
Every driver has a legal and moral obligation to stop for a school bus, since violations can have devastating consequences — children getting on and off their school buses are among the most vulnerable people on the road. Consistent enforcement of traffic laws to deter illegal passing can help prevent injuries and save lives. At the same time, these systems must be implemented carefully. When enforcement programs are poorly administered, lack clear authorization or fail to provide drivers with adequate notice, they undermine trust in traffic safety efforts. Safety and accountability should go hand in hand, not come at the expense of one another.
In 2021 I helped pass legislation in the County Legislature approving schoolbus stop-arm cameras. As a former school board trustee, I did so with a deep sense of responsibility to protect chil-
dren not only in the classroom, but on their way to and from school. The law allowed the county to partner with a private vendor to operate the system — but only in districts that chose to opt in.
That distinction matters. The program was designed to give local school districts the ability to decide what was best for safety in their own communities. It was never intended to be a blanket system imposed across every neighborhood, nor was it designed to operate without clear local consent.
T ickets are being issued in school districts that never agreed to participate.
Soon after its implementation, however, concerns began to emerge. A Newsday investigation last year found that, over a two-year period, the Town of Hempstead issued more than 80,000 tickets in and around school districts that never agreed to participate in the program — raising serious legal and ethical questions about how the system was being enforced.
Town officials have suggested that these tickets stemmed from buses that take part in the program making stops outside their home districts. But that reality makes clear why stronger safe-
guards are necessary. A program built on local consent shouldn’t result in enforcement spilling into communities that never opted in. When the boundaries of participation become blurred, so does the public’s confidence in the system itself — and in the fairness of the penalties it produces.
That’s why I introduced legislation in the State Senate to restore fairness and transparency. My bill makes clear that enforcement cannot begin until there is authorization by local school boards for implementation in their school districts, proper public notice, and certification that a system is active. Drivers deserve to know when and where automated enforcement is being used. The bill also ensures that no one can be penalized retroactively for actions that occurred before a system was officially authorized and put in operation.
School bus camera systems would only be permitted to operate within school districts that formally opt in. That would restore the balance that was originally intended: protecting children while respecting the role of local com-
munities in making decisions about their own safety measures. It would also ensure that enforcement is consistent and applied only where it is authorized. To protect local decision-making and ensure that enforcement is fair and transparent, the bill would set clear rules for both municipalities and vendors. Municipalities would be required to maintain accurate records of participating districts. Vendors would be required to ensure that bus camera systems operate only within the boundaries of those districts, and could not issue violations outside them. In other words, unless a district had made a clear and informed decision to participate, there would be no cameras and no tickets. This is not about weakening school bus safety laws. Drivers must always stop for school buses to protect children — but enforcement must be transparent to maintain trust.
At its core, this legislation is about restoring public confidence. When people trust that laws are being enforced fairly and as intended, they are far more likely to respect and follow them. That’s how we create safer streets — not just through enforcement.
Siela
Amityville
RecoRd CHARLES DELANO - Founder Established 1904
Incorporating the Amityville Record in 2024
CAROLyN JAmES
Associate Publisher / Editor
Consola JessiCa Kleiman Multi Media Marketing Consultants
2
offiCe
Phone: (516) 569-4000
Fax: (516) 569-4942
Web: www.liherald.com
E-mail:
there is an unwritten contract that comes with riding on the Long Island Rail Road. You buy your ticket, you find your seat and you agree — implicitly, silently, without anyone asking you to sign anything — to share a small, enclosed space with strangers for the duration of your journey. It’s not always comfortable. It’s rarely glamorous. But it works, because most people understand that shared spaces require a certain baseline of consideration for the people around you.
That contract is being violated, every day, by people who can’t be bothered to use headphones. This lack of common decency is getting worse. Perhaps it signals the erosion of pre-pandemic norms, or the proliferation of short-form video content that simply must be consumed the moment it appears. But the reason doesn’t matter. The result is the same: a train car held captive by one person’s indifference.
You know what I’m talking about. The commuter who has his phone propped against his coffee cup, watching a video at full volume like he’s in his living room — a living room, apparently, with very thick walls or no neighbors. The guy on his Bluetooth speaker. Yes, a Bluetooth. On a train. In public. Among other humans.
What is so urgent that it cannot wait — or at minimum, be routed through a pair of earbuds? If you’re going to subject your fellow passengers to unsolicit-
To the Editor:
ed audio, the least you can do is make it enriching. Bach’s “Goldberg Variations.” A Pulitzer Prize-winner on Audible. Perhaps a documentary about the migratory patterns of the Arctic tern. Something that, when the woman across the aisle glances up from her book, she might think, “Well, I didn’t ask for this, but I’ll learn something today.”
Instead, what Long Island commuters are treated to after a long day of work is a TikTok of someone attempting to fit way too many cherry tomatoes in their mouth. Or a Twitch stream of a man dropping words that would make a sailor take notes. Or, my personal favorite, a FaceTime call conducted at a volume that suggests the party on the other end is located not in Queens but in Uzbekistan.
The headphone — wireless, wired, over-ear, in-ear, take your pick — is sold at every price point from reasonable to why-does-this-cost-more-than-my-firstcar, and is one of the great inventions of the modern age precisely because it solved this problem. It lets each of us live inside our own sonic world without inflicting it on everyone else. The technology is cheap, ubiquitous, and works perfectly well even when moving at 60 miles per hour.
And before anyone reaches for the ready-made excuse, “My AirPods died” is not quite the sympathetic defense it might seem. Yes, it’s mildly inconvenient to sit for 40 minutes without being
Karl Grossman’s op-ed critique of New York’s zeroemission credit program, “Nuclear power for $33 billion, and guess who’s paying?” (April 2-8) mischaracterizes both the program’s purpose and its value. The figure he cites is designed to alarm, but stripped of context, it obscures a central truth: New York is not subsidizing failure — it is investing in reliability, climate compliance and economic stability.
In 2016, the state Public Service Commission established zero-emissions credits as part of its Clean Energy Standard to preserve existing nuclear generation, the single largest source of zero-emission electricity in the state. At the time, upstate nuclear plants were at risk of premature closure due to distorted wholesale markets. The commission found that losing those facilities would result in “significantly increased greenhouse gas emissions,” higher capacity costs and immediate reliability risks.
Federal courts agreed. In 2018, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit upheld New York’s ZEC program, finding it lawful and consistent with federal energy policy. The court rejected claims that ZECs distorted markets, affirming that states retain
able to catch up on the latest episode of “Love Is Blind.” We understand. We feel for you. But that inconvenience — yours, private, manageable — pales significantly when compared with forcing the occupants of an entire train car to listen to it with you.
Charge your headphones. Toss a wired pair in your bag. The bar here is low, but it’s still worth clearing.
Long Island commuters are not a fragile lot. Anyone who has navigated Penn Station at rush hour or waited half an hour for a delayed train on an unsheltered platform in January has developed a certain resilience. We don’t need silence. We don’t need perfection. Trains are noisy — the screech of the rails, the hiss of the doors, the conductor calling out “Jamaica next!” in a voice that carries to the next car. That’s the deal. That’s ambient. That’s fine.
What isn’t fine is being forced to listen to someone else’s choice of entertainment, which, based on available evidence, is made with absolutely no one else in mind.
So here’s a modest proposal: bring your headphones, and use them. The train is a community — a rolling slice of Long Island life, hurtling toward work or home. Communities are at their best when their members extend small courtesies to one another.
And, if you absolutely must share your audio with the world, at the very minimum, make it Bach.
authority to value environmental attributes of generation. As the court noted, “States are not preempted from encouraging production of clean energy.”
Nuclear power supplies roughly 20 percent of New York’s electricity and more than 40 percent of its carbon-free generation. Without it, emissions would spike dramatically, undoing years of progress under the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. As New York’s independent system operator has repeatedly warned, premature retirements of dispatchable resources, espe -
Across Long Island, families are struggling to find reliable child care. Waiting lists are growing, educators are stretched thin and communities continue to ask the same question: Why can’t we simply open more child care programs?
As an early-childhood educator and a small-business owner on Long Island, I see this challenge from both sides — as someone serving families in need of care, and as someone actively working to expand child care in our community.
Many people assume that the primary barriers to opening new programs are licensing requirements, zoning regulations or finding appropriate space. These are certainly significant hurdles. Child care providers must meet strict safety regulations, navigate local zoning rules and secure properties that meet both municipal and state requirements.
But what often goes unrecognized is what happens after those hurdles are cleared.
In some cases, providers manage to secure the property, obtain the necessary approvals and design programs that expand the number of available
spots for families with children. The plans are approved. The need in the community is clear.
Yet even at that stage, expansion can stall because of one remaining obstacle: access to capital.
Child care programs are small businesses that operate with extremely tight margins. Unlike many other industries, the cost of delivering quality care — staffing, safety requirements, training, compliance and maintaining appropriate childto-staff ratios — leaves little room for financial flexibility. At the same time, many lending institutions continue to view child care as a high-risk investment.
Ters must manage both the expense of running a small business and the rising cost of maintaining a home.
Utility costs alone can be substantial when caring for children in a program that operates for long hours each day. Heating, electricity, water, sanitation, food preparation and cleaning requirements all contribute to increased operational costs. These aren’t optional expenses; they are essential components of maintaining a safe, healthy environment for children.
he cost of delivering quality care leaves little room for financial flexibility.
The result is a troubling disconnect. Communities are asking for more child care options, providers are ready to expand, and projects may already have the proper approvals in place, but financing remains out of reach.
On Long Island, this challenge is compounded by the broader affordability crisis. The cost of operating any small business here continues to rise.
Property costs, insurance, utilities, food, supplies and maintenance expenses have increased significantly in recent years. For home-based child care providers, the financial pressures can be even more complex. Many programs operate in residential homes, meaning provid-
cially nuclear, pose “significant reliability challenges,” particularly as electrification increases demand.
Critics often invoke plant age as a proxy for danger. That is misleading. Nuclear facilities are regulated by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission under one of the most stringent safety regimes in the world. License extensions are granted only after exhaustive review of materials, systems and operational performance. Comparing a nuclear plant to a “57-year-old car” may be rhetorically effective, but it is technically unserious. Nuclear facilities are continually upgraded with the latest technology, which is often mandated by the commission.
The economic argument also collapses under scrutiny. ZECs are not a “bailout”; they are a market correction. Fossil fuel generation benefits from decades of embedded subsidies and does not pay for its environmental externalities. ZECs attempt to internalize those costs, something economists across the spectrum have long advocated. As former Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz has stated, “Retaining existing nuclear plants is one of the most cost-effective ways to prevent carbon emissions.”
As well, these facilities support thousands of high-skilled, union jobs that cannot be quickly or easily replaced. More important, they anchor local economies across upstate New York. Abrupt closures
At the same time, providers must invest in staff wages, professional development, educational materials and regulatory compliance. These costs are necessary to ensure quality care, but they also make it more difficult for programs to accumulate the capital needed to grow. When providers attempt to secure financing to expand services, many encounter lending systems that aren’t designed with childhood programs in mind. Even projects that have secured zoning approval and appropriate facilities, and demonstrated community demand, may struggle to access the financing necessary to move forward.
This gap in financing has real consequences. Families across Long Island are already experiencing the impact of limited child care availability. Parents are delaying career opportunities,
would not only destabilize the grid but devastate entire communities.
Nuclear power is not a panacea. Renewables will continue to expand, but the idea that wind and solar alone can replace firm, dispatchable baseload power in the near term is not supported by grid realities. Even the Union of Concerned Scientists acknowledges that maintaining existing nuclear capacity can play a role in reducing emissions during the transition.
The real question isn’t whether ZECs cost money. It is whether abandoning them would cost more in emissions, in reliability failures, in lost jobs and, ultimately, in higher long-term energy prices.
New York’s energy transition must be grounded in pragmatism, not ideology. Preserving zero-emission nuclear generation through ZECs isn’t a step backward. It is a necessary bridge, one that ensures we reach a cleaner future without falling into the very pitfalls critics claim to oppose.
PATRICk GUIdICE Holtsville
Patrick Guidice is the business manager of IBEW Local 1049, representing over 4,000 workers in the electrical and gas utility industry on Long Island. Karl Grossman’s column did not appear in all print editions of the Herald, but can be found at liherald. com/oped.
adjusting work schedules or leaving the workforce entirely because they cannot find reliable care for their children.
Employers also feel the effects. Businesses depend on employees who depend on child care. When their child care options are limited, workforce participation declines and productivity suffers.
Expanding child care isn’t simply about building classrooms. It’s about investing in the system that allows families, businesses and communities to function. Long Island has no shortage of educators who are committed to serving families and expanding access to early learning opportunities. What we need now is greater alignment between that commitment and the financial system that supports small businesses trying to meet this urgent need.
When approved child care projects can’t move forward due to lack of financing, it should prompt an important conversation about how we invest in one of the most essential services our communities depend on.
Child care isn’t a luxury. It is the foundation that allows families to work, businesses to operate and communities to grow. If Long Island is serious about addressing the child care shortage, we must ensure that providers who are ready to expand have a viable path to do so.
Janna Rodriguez is an early childhood educator and a small-business owner in Freeport.
BUSINESS & TRANSACTIONAL
JOSEPH G. MILIZIO
Managing Partner Vishnick McGovern Milizio, LLP
RACHELLE ROSENBERG, ESQ.
Partner Abrams Fensterman
RALPH ROSELLA
Office Managing Member Bond, Schoeneck & King
COMPLEX TORT & GENERAL CASUALTY
CAV. NICHOLAS R. CAIAZZO
Partner/Trial Attorney Wilson Elser
CORPORATE & SECURITIES
DAVID F. DURSO
Partner Ruskin Moscou Faltischek, P.C.
DEBT SOLUTIONS
LESLIE H. TAYNE
Founder & Managing Director Tayne Law Group, P.C.
EMPLOYMENT & BUSINESS LITIGATION
DANIELÉ D. DE VOE
Partner
Sahn Ward Braff Coschignano, PLLC
JEFFREY BASSO
Partner Campolo, Middleton & McCormick, LLP
MICHAEL POROPAT Partner Stockman & Poropat, PPLC
ESTATE PLANNING/ ELDER LAW
BRIAN A. TULLY
Founder & Managing Partner Tully Law Group, P.C.
ROCHELLE L. VERRON, ESQ. Founder & Managing Partner Verron Law Group, P.C.
RONALD FATOULLAH, ESQ.
Chair Elder Law Group & Partner Trusts & Estates Meltzer, Lippe, Goldstein & Breitstone, LLP
STEPHEN J. SILVERBERG
Founding Attorney Law Office of Stephen J. Silverberg, P.C.
WENDY K. GOIDEL, ESQ. Founder & Principal Goidel Law Group, LLC
ESTATE PLANNING/
GENERATIONAL WEALTH MANAGEMENT
RUSSEL MORGAN, ESQ. Founding Partner Morgan Legal Group, P.C.
STEPHANIE D’ANGELO, ESQ. Principal Attorney D’Angelo Law Associates, P.C.
FAMILY LAW
ALEXANDER E. SKLAVOS, ESQ.
Founder & Principal Attorney Sklavos Law Group, P.C.
ARMAND J. PRISCO, ESQ. Partner Polin, Prisco & Villafane
JOSEPH TROTTI Partner Vishnick McGovern Milizio, LLP
MICHAEL ALBER, ESQ Partner The Alber Firm, P.C.
FINANCE, INSURANCE & LEGAL AFFAIRS
ALAN B. HODISH, ESQ. Founding Principal Law Offices of Alan B. Hodish, LLC
HEALTHCARE & CANNABIS LAW
ANDREW P. COOPER, ESQ., LLM
Cannabis & Psychedelics Attorney Falcon Rappaport & Berkman LLP
INJURY & CAR ACCIDENT LAW
CHRISSY GRIGOROPOULOSPELEYTAY, ESQ.
Founding Attorney Grigor Law Injury & Car Accident Lawyers
LITIGATION & DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAW
ANDREW J. TURRO Shareholder Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C.
TOM MEALIFFE Partner Nixon Peabody, LLP
MEDICAL MALPRACTICE
JOSEPH L. CIACCIO Partner
Napoli Shkolnik, PLLC
PERSONAL INJURY
DOROTHY RENZ Partner
Duffy & Duffy, P.C.
JASON A. GREENBERG Founder & Managing Attorney Law Offices of Jason Greenberg, P.C.
LEONARD J. WIENER
Associate Meyer, Suozzi, English & Klein, P.C.
ROSS L. SCHILLER
Founder & Managing Attorney Ross L. Schiller & Associates, P.C.
REAL ESTATE
BRIAN S. STOLAR Partner
Harris Beach Murtha
BRYAN P. MCCROSSEN Partner
Jaspan Schlesinger Narendran
ED PUERTA Partner
Nixon Peabody, LLP
GILAD ADLAD Attorney at Law Law Office of Gilad Adlad
RISING STARS
ALEXIS EPSTEIN Associate Barket Epstein Kearon Aldea and LoTurco, LLP
BROOKE MCDONALD Associate Salenger, Sack, Kimmel & Bavaro, LLP
JACOB BLOOM, ESQ. Associate Attorney Miller & Caggiano, LLP
TAX CERTIORARI LITIGATION
ANTHONY FORZAGLIA Partner Schroder & Strom, LLP
TRUST & ESTATE LITIGATION
ANDREW P. NITKEWICZ Partner Cullen and Dykman, LLP
TRIAL LAW
CHAD J. LAVEGLIA
CEO & Trial Lawyer
Law Office of Chad J. LaVeglia PLLC
WORKERS’ COMPENSATION
ANDREW B. WOOLF
Founding Partner
Klee Woolf Goldman & Filpi, LLP
JONATHAN R. KLEE
Managing Partner
Klee Woolf Goldman & Filpi, LLP
TIMOTHY E.T. FINNEGAN
Partner McIntyre, Donohue, Accardi, Salmonson, & Riordan, LLP
SPECIAL AWARDS
COMMUNITY CHAMPION
PHIL RIZZUTO
Trial Attorney
The Rizzuto Law Firm
TOP BOUTIQUE LAW FIRM
VISHNICK MCGOVERN MILIZIO, LLP
TOP LAW FIRM
NIXON PEABODY, LLP
TOP TAX CERTIORARI LAW FIRM
SCHRODER & STROM, LLP
TRIAL TEAM OF THE YEAR
STUART L. FINZ, CARAMIA R. HART, BRANDON S. FINZ
FINZ & FINZ, P.C.
TO
SILVERSPONSORS
