Amityville Herald 04_23_2025 by Richner Communications, Inc

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Town of Babylon unveils hot new fire and rescue dispatch facility

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com

In recognition of National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, the Town of Babylon last week unveiled its newly renovated Babylon Central Fire and Rescue Alarm Corporation dispatch facility, located in the basement of Town Hall.

The project had been in the works for 25 years, according to Babylon Town Supervisor Rich Schaffer.

“It has been a long time coming since my first tour of duty when we talked about the need for stability to fund this,” Schaffer said. “This is all in the name of timely responses to protect our residents, and now calls can be dispatched out of here instead of through 911, which cuts off time in an emergency.”

Mark Ziegler, former president of Babylon Central Fire Alarm, said the upgrades mark a major step forward.

“I’m looking forward to everyone seeing

the whole new radio room,” Ziegler said. “It’s a very large project, and it has brought us up to modern times, making it easier to dispatch calls.”

During a tour of the facility, H. James Kenning III, chief of administration at Babylon Central Fire and Rescue Alarm Corporation, described the improvements. The updated space now includes six working consoles and a kitchen area, creating a more comfortable and efficient work environment for dispatchers.

Previously, the facility was cramped, with only four consoles and no separate lunch area. Kenning recalled conditions during Superstorm Sandy, when as many as 15 staffers were crowded into the small room. The reconfigured layout now allows for a more open and functional floor plan.

“We’re now able to sit six people down answering incoming 911 calls and not worry about that information getting out,” Kenning CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 Is there a fire in you?

Amityville Village budget hearing set Page 11

O’Neill becomes Mayor, Amityville trustees and justices also sworn in

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

As a crowd of approximately 200 friends, family members and supporters looked on, newly elected Mayor Michael O’Neill was sworn into office Monday, April 22, during the Village of Amityville’s organizational meeting.

Also sworn in were Trustee Owen Brooks, who won reelection, and newly elected Trustee Robert Russo. Both will serve four-year terms.

O’Neill also appointed local attorney Adam Ansanelli to fill his now-vacant trustee seat, which expires in 2027.

Village Justice Joseph Calabrese, who was reelected, and Associate Justice Colleen Nugent also took the oath of office.

Before the swearing-in, outgoing Mayor Dennis Siry delivered a brief but emotional farewell speech, thanking those who supported him during his eight years in office. He paid tribute to the late Marie Garaf-fo, longtime secretary to the Zoning Board of Appeals and assistant to four mayors. During Siry’s tenure, the second floor of Village Hall was named in her honor.

“I am very grateful to the Village for having given me this opportunity,” Siry said. He thanked the Beautification Society, Superintendent of Public Works Bruce Hopper, Murdock, and Wendy O’Neill, his assistant and secretary.

Siry said his focus over the past eight years was to

leave the Village in a better place than when he took office. “I think we have accomplished that,” he said.

Outgoing board member Kevin Smith echoed Siry’s sentiments.

“I believe we have left the Village better than it was when we took office, and I am proud of that,” Smith said.

O’Neill called the moment bittersweet, acknowledging the absence of Siry and Smith moving forward.

“I am humbled by the trust the people of Amityville placed in me,” O’Neill said. “It’s an exciting time in the Village, and I look forward to completing many of the projects we have underway.”

He said his choice to appoint Ansanelli came after much thought and discussion.

Ansanelli operates a law firm, Ansanelli Law Group, in Amityville and is co-counsel in his father’s law firm, Ansanelli Law, also in the village. He is married and the father of three children. If he chooses to remain on the board, he will have to run in a special election to complete the remainder of O’Neill’s term, and again the following year for a full four-year term.

“I was very focused on selecting a younger person committed to the Village and ready to move us to the next level,” O’Neill said. “I’m excited to work with Adam, Rob and Owen.”

He added that, like his predecessor, he hopes to leave the Village in a better place than he

Christie Leigh Babirad/Herald photos

Supervisor Rich Schaffer talks about renovation of Babylon Central Fire and Rescue Alarm facility.

O’Neill becomes Amityville Mayor; Trustees and Justices also sworn In

CONTINUED FROM COVER

found it.

“I want to build on the success of the Siry administration,” O’Neill said.

Ansanelli said he is very appreciative of the faith that O’Neill placed in him.

“Recognizing that more businesses and development will be coming into the Village, I would like to help steward changes in such a way that we maintain a sense of the Village’s rich history,” he said, adding

he would he would also like to work to encourage more businesses and residents to get involved in the Village.

Following the ceremony, many attendees stayed to mingle and enjoy live music.

“We just thought it would be appropriate,” said Village Clerk-Treasurer Catherine Murdock, referring to the upbeat music that closed the event.

Town of Babylon unveils upgraded fire and rescue dispatch facility

Town Historian Mary Cascone speaks on the history of the dispatch facility as other town officials and volunteer firefighters look on.

CONTINUED FROM COVER said.

Before the tour, Town Historian Mary Cascone provided background on the Babylon Central Fire and Rescue Alarm Corporation, which has operated since 1962. Over time, local communities consolidated efforts to form a system that bypasses 911, improving emergency response time.

Babylon Central currently receives approximately 28,000 emergency calls and 35,000 non-emergency calls annually, and both numbers continue to rise.

In the event of a fire or medical emergency, residents can contact the Town of Babylon Central Fire and Rescue Alarm directly at (631) 226-1212 for immediate assistance.

Village Justice Joseph Calabrese gives the oath of office to Michael O’Neill as his his wife Wendy and daughters, Sarah, Casey and Paige look on.

Volunteer fire departments are hosting ‘Light Up Red,’ a statewide weekend event to boost local memberships

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

Volunteer fire departments across New York state will open their doors to the public this weekend, April 26–27, as part of the 16th annual RecruitNY campaign, an effort aimed at boosting volunteer membership in local fire departments.

The statewide event is being organized by the Firefighters Association of the State of New York (FASNY).

As part of the campaign, FASNY will also relaunch its “Light Up NY Red” initiative to raise awareness about the need for volunteer firefighters. From April 2127, residents, businesses, landmarks and government buildings are being encouraged to display red lighting to support the effort.

“We are hoping that all New Yorkers will help us shine the ‘light’ red for the recruitment of volunteer firefighters across the state this April,” said FASNY President Eugene Perry. “FASNY is working with state and local officials to get some of New York’s biggest landmarks involved in this program again this year. It would be great to see even more participation in support of this initiative, and to help departments gain more volunteers.”

Notable landmarks that participated in last year’s campaign included Niagara Falls State Park, the JMA Wireless Dome at Syracuse University, and several county and municipal buildings in Nassau and Suffolk counties.

“These lights symbolize FASNY’s commitment to a tradition of community and a sense of camaraderie, and we are very grateful for the support,” Perry said.

County EMS, Member Jason Jessup, FASNY Representative Gene, Vito Graziano, Commissioner Robin Brown, Deer Park Fire Department Chief Rob Macaluso.

We are hoping that all New Yorkers will help us shine the ‘light’ red for the recruitment of volunteer firefighters across the state this April.

“As the North Amityville Fire Company continues to serve and protect our community, we warmly invite you to join our family. We are currently recruiting new members and we encourage you to come and lend your support by becoming a part of our team,” said Amityville Chief of Department Vince McLeod.

EUGENE PERRY President, FASNY

Volunteer fire departments statewide continue to face such challenges as declining membership and increasing emergency call volumes. According to FASNY, New York has about 40,000 fewer volunteer firefighters than it did two decades ago. Economic pressures, time constraints and other lifestyle demands have made recruiting and retaining volunteers more difficult.

Volunteer firefighters respond to a variety of emergencies, including fires, medical calls, vehicle accidents, downed power lines and lithium battery incidents. Officials say increasing the volunteer ranks is essential to maintaining public safety.

“We need to attract and maintain volunteers in order to provide adequate protection for our communities,” said Scott A. Thebold, president of the S.C. Firefighters Association and a member of the Yaphank Fire Department. “The problem

is that we get many who volunteer, we train them, and then they leave, primarily because of the lack of affordable housing on Long Island.”

“Young people join, but then go to college, get married and move away simply because they can’t afford to live on Long Island,” he added. “We have to do whatever we can to address this issue and keep volunteerism alive.”

Kevin McFlynn, president of the Nassau County Firefighters Association, echoed those concerns.

“To me the biggest problem is affordability here in Nassau,” McFlynn said. “Nassau is a very expensive place to live, which means that most people have to have two jobs and don’t have the time to give to be a volunteer.”

He added that times have changed, noting: “It’s not like when a local businessman could hear the fire alarm, lock his doors and go serve the community — that’s just not something they can do anymore.”

McFlynn emphasized the urgency of bringing in new recruits, saying that many departments rely on aging volunteers.

“I can’t do what I did when I was 20 years old, like climb ladders and drag hoses,” he said. “I hope the RecruitNY campaign encourages more people to participate and volunteer.”

FASNY is encouraging communities to share their support for the “Light Up NY Red” campaign on social media using the hashtag #LightUpNYRed. Photos and captions can also be emailed to photos@fasny. com for possible inclusion in Volunteer Firefighter magazine and on FASNY’s social media platforms.

For more information about RecruitNY or to find a participating fire department, visit www.recruitny.org

Local participating fire departments

NORTH AMITYVILLE

April 26 & 27: noon to 4 p.m. 601 Broadway, Amityville • For information call 631-789-5285

NORTH LINDENHURST

April 26 & 27: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

1630 Straight Path, Lindenhurst • For information call 631-226-9783

WEST BABYLON

April 26 & 27, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

1630 Straight Path • For information call 631-226-9783

Statistics on volunteer firefighters in the United States

• According to the US Fire Administration, usfa.fema.gov, there are 1,054,400 active career volunteer and paid per call firefighters representing almost 87 percent of the registered departments’ personnel in the United States.

• Approximately 93 percent of New York’s 1,700 fire departments are volunteer based.

—opengovny.com/fire-department

• A report by FASNY, noted that New York State’s nearly 100,000 volunteer firefighters save taxpayers $3.87 billion annually in salary and benefits, and potential debt service.

• Property taxes across the state would rise on average 26.5 percent to for paid departments (taxes would rise between 3.3 percent and 123 percent depending on the county), which would include the cost of hiring firefighters and acquiring equipment and

buildings.

• The report also found that fire response times across the state are getting better due to the recent addition of more than 20,000 volunteer firefighters through the SAFER grant. The full report can be found at www.fasny.com/economicstudy

Firefighters in New York State are eligible for significant benefits, including:

• Free training and equipment.

• Tax breaks and essential insurance coverage under the Volunteer Firefighter Benefits Law (VFBL).

• Scholarships and tuition reimbursement for college.

• Opportunity to learn and build your resume.

•A sense of pride and a flexible schedule for work-life balance.

•An opportunity for career growth and some financial aid.

Courtesy North Amityville Fire Department

Shown in photo are: Don Lynch, Suffolk County Fire Marshal, Assistant Chief Devon Rhoden, Joe Trzepizur, Captain Queen Ervin, Chief Vince McLeod, Danny Keagan, Suffolk

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THURSDAY, APRIL 24

• Town of Babylon Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting: 6 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. For more information, call (631) 957-3012.

•Amityville Rotary Club Meeting: 8 a.m., Brownstones Coffee, 55 Merrick Road, Amityville. For more information, call President Michele Camilleri at (631) 598-1700 or email amityvillerotaryclub@ gmail.com.

• The Long Island Dahlia Society: 9 a.m., Bayard Cutting Arboretum, 440 Montauk Highway, Great River. All are welcome. Come and learn how to care for your dahlias. Tubers will be available for sale starting in April. For more information call (631) 972-8829 (leave message) or visit longislanddahlia.org.

• 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.

FRIDAY, APRIL 25

• 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 26

• 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.

• The Long Island Dahlia Society: 9 a.m., Bayard Cutting Arboretum, 440 Montauk Highway, Great River. All are welcome. Come and learn how to care for your dahlias. For more information call (631) 972-8829 (leave message) or visit longislanddahlia.org.

SUNDAY, APRIL 27

• 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 28

• Town of Babylon Planning Board Meeting: 7 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. For more information, call (631) 957-4434.

TUESDAY, APRIL 29

• 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) 2207808. 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 30

• Town of Babylon Rental Board Meeting: 6 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. For more information, 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.

• The Long Island Dahlia Society: 9 a.m., Bayard Cutting Arboretum, 440 Montauk Highway., Great River. All are welcome. Come and learn how to care for your dahlias. Tubers will be available for sale starting in April. For more information call (631) 972-8829 (leave message) or visit longislanddahlia.org.

• 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

Copiague joins flag football craze

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

The Copiague girls flag football team is building something special under the guidance of head coach Phil Fortuno.

The Eagles have started their first year with a 1-6 record, the only win coming over Huntington, 12-0 on April 9. However, in just the early stages of the program’s growth, Fortuno is laying the foundation for long-term success by focusing not only on winning, but on creating a strong culture rooted in commitment, discipline, and competitiveness.

“This is about building the culture of the program,” Fortuno said. “I expect the girls to come prepared every day, to compete in practice just like they do in games.” It’s a philosophy that’s already started to resonate with his players, many of whom are multi-sport athletes bringing their leadership and intensity from other arenas to the flag football field.

Leading the way is senior captain Maya Rybka, a two-sport athlete who is also a standout volleyball player. “She’s a natural born leader,” said Fortuno. “She’s so intelligent and has done a nice job stepping up while we look for a true QB.”

On the field, senior Glorianni Feliz is a force on both sides of the ball. Also a decorated volleyball player, she is the leader in flag pulls on the team. “She has made some huge contributions for us,” Fortuno said. “She has already recorded two interceptions so her defensive abilities have developed so nicely.”

Also holding down the defense is senior Chloe Allen-Jackson, the team’s top cover corner. Chloe is no stranger to athletic excellence, as she is a three-sport athlete who’s earned all-county honors in basketball and was a captain on the gymnastics team. “She consistently lines up against the opponent’s top receiver,” said Fortuno. “Her combination of skill and competitive drive sets the tone for the defense.”

Junior Amaya McFadden is a player that can do it all. A team captain and elite flag puller, McFadden is known for her versatility and willingness to fill any role

HERALD SPORTS Chemistry always key for West Babylon

Kerah

become a breakout star for the Eagles in their inaugural flag football campaign.

asked of her. “We like to call her Ms. Utility,” Fortuno said.

Then there’s Kerah McHugh, who has quickly become the team’s breakout star. A gritty competitor with a basketball background, McCue ranks in the top five in the county in rushing, with over 650 yards and eight touchdowns already to her name. “She plays with unmatched intensity and passion,” said Fortuno. “She’s just such a tough kid who loves to compete.”

Even the younger players are making an impact. Freshman Gianna Thomas has stepped in as a starting corner and is currently second on the team in flag pulls. “She has gravitated to the sport and gone all in,” Fortuno said.

For Coach Fortuno, who last coached girls while leading a volleyball team in Brooklyn, this experience has been a refreshing return. “It’s a different pace from coaching varsity basketball. These girls are new to the game, and they’re so receptive and eager to learn. It’s been incredible to watch them grow,” he said. “I’m proud to be part of this, and the hope is to build it into a playoff caliber program.”

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

For 16 seasons, coach Colleen Kilgus has led the West Babylon girls’ lacrosse team with passion, consistency, and a deep love for the game. Her dedication to the program has not only developed top-tier athletes but also cultivated a close-knit community where players stay connected long after they graduate.

“I still speak to girls I coached 16 years ago,” Kilgus says, reflecting on the lasting bonds forged through the sport. That sense of family continues to be the heartbeat of this year’s group.

This season, the Eagles are packed with standout talent and undeniable chemistry. Leading the way is Avery Vergano, a fiveyear player and senior heading to play at the Division I level at Cincinnati next year. Avery’s leadership and grit set the tone both on and off the field. “She’s a coach’s dream,” Kilgus says. “She leads by example, she’s tough, and she brings the team together.”

Another returning top talent is Giavanna Coldanato, a junior who has been at the varsity level since middle school. “She has tons of experience,” Kilgus said. “She has been a part of our team since middle school and her comeback from injury last season has energized us. She’s the kind of player who changes the game the second she steps on the field.”

In goal, the Eagles have two major assets. According to Kilgus, senior Charlotte Bilicki has emerged as one of the top goalies in Suffolk County, known for her quick reflexes and fearless play. Alongside her is junior Victoria Pelliccione, a versatile player who’s stepped into the goalie position when needed. “Victoria can really do it all,” Kilgus adds. “We’re lucky to have that kind of flexibility.”

Offensively, the Eagles are a threat from all angles. Lindsey Olivar, a lefty attacker, adds a dynamic edge to their offense, while Emily Paolillo has become one of the top attackers in the region, constantly drawing double teams and still finding ways to score. “Emily has such a natural feel for the game,” Kilgus says. “She’s one of the most creative players we’ve had.”

Freshman Ella Stuart has contributed to the offense for the Eagles, who won four of their first seven games.

Holding down the defense is Chloe Downey, one of the Eagles’ top defenders. Her instincts, speed, and ability to read the offense make her a cornerstone of the Eagles’ back line. “Chloe gives us stability and strength,” Kilgus says. “She makes everyone around her better.”

West Babylon has had a roller coaster season so far. After starting the season 3-0, thanks to wins over Lindenhurst, Southampton, and Glenn, the Eagles lost three straight to fall back to .500 but have since defeated Hauppauge 12-3. Leading the way in scoring was Avery Vergano with five goals. Emily Paolillo and freshman Ella Stuart also contributed offensively with two goals each.

With a core of veterans, rising young stars, and a coach who’s built a legacy of mentorship and pride, the West Babylon Eagles girls lacrosse team is more than ready for whatever comes next. Kilgus has noticed the steps in the right direction that they are taking. “Being with the girls at practice is my favorite part about this,” she said. “I just love watching them progress.”

Erik Lee/Herald

McHugh has

Sheryl Ambrosino/Herald

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Herald gala celebrates L.I.’s top lawyers

Legal excellence and community service are honored at Heritage Club gathering of 300

By Brian Norman

Some of Long Island’s top attorneys were honored for their professional achievements and community contributions at the 2025 Herald Top Lawyers of Long Island Awards Gala at the Heritage Club in Bethpage on April 8.

More than 300 people attended the gala, where 50 of Long Island’s top attorneys, nominated by their peers, were recognized for their professional excellence and dedication to their communities.

Before the awards ceremony, attorneys gathered for a cocktail hour, where they had the opportunity to meet and connect with fellow honorees and colleagues.

Stuart Richner, president and CEO of Richner Communications Inc., opened the ceremony by thanking all of those who were in attendance for their dedication to their professions and the people they serve. “Lawyers are pivotal in navigating business and personal matters, and we admire the commitment that our honorees have to their clients and all of the institutions they serve,” Richner said.

He added that a portion of the proceeds from the gala would be donated to the WE CARE fund, the charitable arm of the Nassau County Bar Association. The gala attracted representatives from law firms across Long Island. Among those honored were Minevich Law Group, Villacorta Law Group, JAG Law Group, Schroder & Storm LLP, and Meyer Suozzi Attorneys at Law.

Thomas A. Kenniff, a criminal defense attorney and founding partner of Raiser & Kenniff P.C., was the keynote speaker. He detailed his high-profile defense of Marine veteran Daniel Penny last year, when the Long Island native was acquitted of homicide charges stemming from a fatal subway confrontation with a man who had a history of violent behavior.

Kenniff said he was humbled to speak in front of the gala honorees, and honored to be recognized by his peers as the recipient of the Distinguished Service Award.

“It’s very humbling, and it’s difficult to speak and be recognized by a crowd of this caliber,” he said. “You look around the room and see first-class attorneys, household names in the legal industry, and you can’t help but ask yourself, ‘Why me?’ It’s a tremendous honor.”

Nicholas Papain, director and managing member of Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C., was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Papain, who has spent his entire career with the firm since joining it in 1978, has been a personal injury lawyer for 47 years. He has represented families of first responders to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, and played a key role in securing a $700 million settlement for rescue and recovery workers.

“I represent people who have been

Hundreds attended to celebrate award winners recognition.

catastrophically injured, and offer them, through our work for them, some financial security for the losses that they have suffered,” Papain said. “It’s a huge honor, I am very humbled by it, I am very appreciative of it, and I am fortunate to be in this position.”

Other honorees included Svetlana Minevich, of the Minevich Law Group, named top health care attorney; Eduardo M. Villacorta, of Villacorta Law Group, recognized as top immigration attorney; and Marjorie Mesidor, of Mesidor PLLC, honored as top employ-

ment discrimination attorney. Mesidor said that to be recognized for what she does drives her to do well. “To be recognized for the work that you are doing is always a great motivator, particularly in times like these, where you feel like there is a lot going on in our country both socially and politically and in the legal field,” Mesidor said. “So this helps to put a little gas in your tank, so to speak, and encourages me to keep going.”

Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP was among the firms with multiple members

The Schroder and Strom, LLP team, Allison Brewi (left), Nicolette MainiMoligano, Robert Goldstein, Esq., Edward Mohlenhoff, Esq., Anthony Forzaglia, Esq., Honorees Joseph C. Packard, Esq. and Christopher P. Byrnes Esq., Jeremy May, Esq., Asad Jilani, Michael Spellman, Esq. (right).

honored, and was recognized as the Top Law Firm on Long Island for the seventh consecutive year. Managing Partner Joseph G. Milizio said that it was a great feeling to receive the award at this point in his career.

“This award is an honor, and it means that I am at a stage in my career where I am able to be recognized for the things that I have done,” he said, “and that is a great feeling.”

For a full list of honorees and to view more pictures please visit: RichnerLive. com/toplawyerawards.

Tim Baker/Herald photos

Deborah A. Kelly, Esq. from Mejias, Milgrim, Alvarado, & Lindo, P.C.

Marjorie Mesidor from Mesidor PLLC.

Platinum Sponsor, Eduardo M. Villacorta, Esq. from Villacorta Law Group.

Courtesy Nixon Peabody

Allan Cohen (left), Honorees, Ashley Mistretta, Neil Diskin, and Christopher J. Moro (right) pose for photo representing their firm, Nixon Peabody LLP.

Honorable Joseph Spinola from Resolute Systems, LLC.

Anthony A. Nozzolillo Esq. accepts his award for Real Estate Law.

Jason A. Greenberg, Esq. from JAG Law Group.

Laurette D. Mulry accepts her award for her work with Legal Aid of Suffolk County, Inc.

Matthew T. McDonough, Esq. CRE accepts his award for Municipal Law.

Charles Skop from Meyer Suozzi, English, and Klein, P.C.

Ellen N. Savino from Sahn Ward Braff Coschignano PLLC.

Neil Diskin Esq. from Nixon Peabody.

Kathryn C. Cole from Greenberg Traurig.

Michael S. Amato from Ruskin Mosco Faltischek, P.C.

Platinum Sponsor, Svetlana Minevich from Minevich Law Group, P.C.

Amy E. Bedell from Lewis Johs Avallone Aviles, LLP.

Holden Leeds/Herald photos

The Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP team, Roy Schwartz (left), Joseph Trotti, Katherin Valdez-Lazo, Theresa DeStasio, Honorees Joseph G. Milizio and Kristine Garcia-Elliott, Helen L. Tuckman, and Philip Hornberger. (right).

Nicholas Papain from Sullivan, Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo, P.C.

Congressional Gold Medal posthumously awarded to Babylon resident Ralph Williams

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com

Ralph Williams, a Babylon native, was posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for his service in the U.S. military from 1942 to 1949 at Montford Point Camp, the segregated training facility for Black Marines at that time.

The Montford Point Marines were collectively awarded the medal at a ceremony in the U.S. Capitol on June 27, 2012. However, the Williams family only recently discovered their patriarch, who died in October 1992, was among those honored.

The discovery was made by Williams’ grandson, Gunnery Sgt. Eric Bordies, who is currently stationed in Okinawa, Japan, as an avionics department staff non-commissioned officer. While on recruiting duty in Norfolk, Virginia, Bordies was asked to attend a ceremony at the American Legion Joe Murphy Post 1957 in Roosevelt. They were planning to honor Corporal Arthur Hutchinson, a Montford Point Marine who received the Congressional Gold Medal.

The medal is one of the nation’s highest civilian honors, along with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. It is awarded by Congress and signed into law by the president, recognizing distinguished achievements and contributions by individuals or institutions.

Aware that his grandfather had served at Montford Point as a steward second class, Bordies shared the information with his family.

After hearing about the ceremony, Williams’ daughter, Vanda Bordies, began researching her father’s military history. She completed the necessary paperwork and confirmed that Montford Point Marines had received the Congressional Gold Medal.

To determine whether her father was among the recipients, she contacted the National Montford Point Marine Association’s New Jersey Chapter 45. Chapter member Kenneth Rollock connected her with Kelly Atkinson, the association’s Northern Region vice president, who confirmed Williams’ eligibility and arranged for the family to receive the medal at a formal ceremony.

Williams was honored on Dec. 15, 2024, at the American Legion Post 1957 in Roosevelt, alongside Hutchinson. Eric and Vanda Bordies both reflected on the significance of the medal for their family’s history and legacy.

“I thought it would be special for my dad, aunt and uncle, my wife, and children to witness and learn about what he went through and the impact those Marines had on future generations and society,” Eric said, adding that his wife, Yahmise, has also been a Marine for 15 years.

Asked what his grandfather might have thought of the honor, Eric said, “I assume he’d be very proud and would appreciate the recognition for enduring tough training during a time when African Americans were mistreated.”

Vanda said the recognition was emotional and deeply meaningful.

“It was such a great feeling, and wonderful to see all the other Marines there,” she said. “It’s great to keep this legacy going, and I felt special and honored to attend the ceremony.” She described her father as a “family man” and said she’s confident he would have been proud of the honor. “He would want to share the lineage and legacy,” she added.

Atkinson said it was particularly meaningful for him to present the award to the Williams family, because both Eric and Yahmise Bordies are active-duty gunnery sergeants — the same rank Atkinson held when he joined the Marine Corps.

“It was nostalgic in that regard,” he said.

Along with the medal — inscribed “For Outstanding Perseverance and Courage that Inspired Social Change in the Marine Corps” — Williams also got a certificate of recognition.

Williams raised three children — Vanda, Victor and Robert — and had four grandchildren: Robert Jr., BJ, Eric and Patty. He remained proud of his hometown and identified closely with his roots, his family said.

“He always considered himself a ‘Babylon person,’” Vanda noted.

A Brief History of Montford Point

In 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Fair Employment Act, which prohibited discrimination based on “race, creed, color, or national origin” in federal agencies. In response, the U.S. Marine Corps established Montford Point, a separate training facility for Black recruits at Camp Lejeune. Between 1942 and 1949, approximately 20,000 recruits trained there, breaking racial barriers in the military.

Retired Mgysgt James Carr who was also honored at the event, GySgt Eric Bordies, GySgt Yahmise Bordies and Kelly Atkinson, President and founding member of Montford Point Marine Association NJ Chapter 45.

Eric and Yahmise Bordies

Ralph Williams

Northeast Elementary School’s STRIVE staff in Amityville were recognized during World Autism Awareness Day with a luncheon hosed by Principal Pauline Collins .

Amityville Village budget hearing April 28

The Village of Amityville will hold a public hearing on its proposed budget Mon., April 28.

Preliminary figures show the village board is considering a budget that would increase the tax rate by 1% over last year. The proposal remains within the New York State tax cap.

The proposed budget totals approximately $21.3 million. While there are no budgeted police retirements this year, other expenses are projected to rise by about $500,000, driven by contractual obligations and increased pension costs.

The amount levied through real property taxes is expected to increase by about $150,000, from $14.5 million to $14.65 million. The average assessed value for a single-family home on the

2025–26 assessment roll is $9,659. The proposed tax rate would increase by approximately 44 cents, from $39.48 per $100 of assessed value to $39.88. This would result in an average annual increase of $38.64 per home compared to the 2024–25 rate.

The village plans to use about $1.3 million from its fund balance to support ongoing capital improvements. These include upgrades to Department of Public Works vehicles and equipment, repairs to the Village Hall façade, renovations to the Bennett Place Firehouse, and improvements to the Trihy House on Ocean Avenue, in accordance with the village’s agreement with Suffolk County. The meeting will be held at 7 p.m., 3rd floor, Village Hall.

ATTENTION FAMILIES AND FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Family members and funeral directors can submit obituary notices to us at: Amityville Record, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530 or call us at 516-569-4000 ext. 329.

We will also consider publishing clear black-and -hite or color photos with the articles.

Photos Courtesy Amityville school district

Discover Long Island gears up for busy tourism season

Discover Long Island, the marketing organization promoting Long Island to the world, held its annual meeting and legislative breakfast at Hilton Long Island on March 14.

Discover LI presented its agenda for the year and premiered its new YouBelong campaign, featuring stories of local Long Islanders and business owners. “2025 is already proving to be a monumental year, and there is much more on the horizon,” said Mitchell Pally, chairman of the Discover LI board of directors.

In 2023, travelers spent $7.5 billion while visiting Long Island, in large part as a result of Discover Long Island’s global marketing of the region as a premier travel destination. With events like the 2025 Ryder Cup, the 100th anniversary of “The Great Gatsby” and the 2026 NHL All-Star Game, Long Island is expecting an unprecedented number of visitors in the coming months.

–Madison Gusler

The role of tourism in boosting the local economy

The goal of Discover LI is to increase tourism in the region, because tourism drives revenue across the Island. Over 42 million tourists visited Long Island in 2023, generating $900 million in local and state tax revenue. During peak season, tourism generates over 100,000 jobs.

With 11 social media channels and over 10 million followers, Discover LI promotes Long Island tourism to audiences around the globe.

Targeting high-value international visitors and promoting local exploration

Discover LI’s team attends tourism trade shows around the world to promote Long Island internationally. They target high-value visitors who spend more when they visit. When travelers come to LI from outside the region, they spend on hotels, dining and activities.

And Discover LI isn’t ignoring residents, featuring hyper-local marketing that aims to acquaint Long Islanders with new experiences in their own backyards.

Discover LI’s digital advances, with NearMe app and AI implementation

Discover LI has made strides in digital options for those planning a visit. Its AI chatbot, LiLi, was launched in 2024, and has since sent 6,071 messages. LiLi speaks a number of languages, and has saved Discover LI staff more than 200 hours of work.

The Discover LI app, which has seen a 300 percent increase in downloads since 2024, generates suggestions for dining and entertainment near users and provides information about the area.

STEPPING OUT

An Evening with Misty Copeland

By Karen Bloom

pring is calling — and there’s no better place to answer than at Old Westbury Gardens. As blooms burst into color and we shake off winter — and early spring’s chill — the beloved 200-acre historic estate is the perfect place to be.

Now a few weeks into its re-opening, this idyllic landmark is ready to enchant visitors with its lush gardens, a refreshed Westbury House and a calendar packed with events and activities. And this momentous season marks the conclusion of its 65th anniversary year as a public garden and historic home.

For Maura Brush, Old Westbury Gardens’ president and horticulturist extraordinaire, the milestone continues to carry a deep meaning.

“Our anniversary year is still ongoing and we have so much to offer,” she says. “And we’re excited about the event we have planned for the 100th anniversary of ‘The Great Gatsby’ being published.”

Gatsby enthusiasts will have to wait for fall to celebrate iconic novel. In the meantime, there’s so much to enjoy — right now.

“When the gardens ﬁrst opened to the public, it was Peggy Phipps and her friends who helped usher in that new chapter. Sixty-ﬁve years later, we’re still here, thriving,” Brush says. It’s a real testament to how loved these gardens are.”

Indeed, it’s not just about surviving — it’s about ﬂourishing. The estate, once home to prominent lawyer John Shaffer Phipps, draws record numbers of visitors and members alike, year after year, enticed by its historic charm and horticultural magic.

And that magic begins the moment you step through the gates.

“All winter long you’re sort of just looking for any signs of life in the garden,” Brush says, about the transition to spring.

“The smallest snowdrop or crocus means the world. And then when you hit this time of year it feels like I can take a walk in the garden in the morning, and by the afternoon something else has sprung up. I love that the garden really changes almost day to day.”

One of her favorite early spring spots? The serene lakeside.

“In the early part of the season, the lake areas are just

Old Westbury Gardens sets its sights on the exciting conclusion of a milestone anniversary year

stunning. The trees haven’t fully leafed out yet, so the

stunning. The trees haven’t fully leafed out yet, so the sunlight dances on the water,” she says.

Keep your eyes open for some of the garden’s wildest residents: turtles sunning on logs, ducks gliding and birdsong echoing through the trees.

“This time of year you start to see the turtles more,” she notes. “The logs are ﬁlled with those turtles trying to get their Vitamin D, getting any sun they can.”

Just like us.

• Old Westbury Gardens

71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury

• For more information and program/events schedule visit oldwestburygardens.org or call (516) 333-0048

Another mustvisit is the delightful Primrose Path, at its peak in April through mid-May. Here, you’ll ﬁnd delicate primroses in vibrant hues, forget-me-nots and a scattering of ephemerals — in an expression seasonal joy.

As spring progresses, Old Westbury Gardens transforms week by week. Daffodils, fritillaria, tulips, and more unfurl in careful succession, planned and planted by Brush’s dedicated team.

Of course, you’ll want to head over to the Walled Garden where tulips are in spring’s spotlight.

“The tulips change every year. What we really try to do is create a display that starts with the very early spring tulips and goes to the late bloomers,” Brush explains.

Some appear in early April while others ﬂower closer to May, or even in the middle of May.

“We take a lot of pride in the tulip display,” she continues. “The combinations are very thoughtful. We’ll ﬁnd a tulip that we really like and then we’ll try to ﬁnd a pansy or some other annual that has some colors that bring out the tulip’s color and coordinate with that tulip. One row might be very ‘hot’ with ambers and yellows and oranges and then the center aisle will be very ‘cool’ with pale pink and silvery blues and purples. The Walled Garden is a masterpiece.”

Each year Old Westbury Gardens offers a soul-refreshing way to celebrate spring’s return. Plus the extensive schedule of programs enhances its surroundings — and its rich heritage.

“I am especially proud of the dynamic public programming we have curated,” Brush says.“Beloved favorites like Dog Days and Midsummer Nights return, alongside exciting new additions. From inspiring art programs and wellness, we always have a rich roster of programming because that’s who we are.

“It’s a legacy to the Phipps family that their lovely home is so enjoyed by so many people. I think that’s what Peggy envisioned when she so generously gifted Old Westbury Gardens. She had a very happy childhood and life here. Her vision was she would be able to share some of that with the generations to come after her.

And that’s exactly what she’s done.”

So go ahead — let spring sweep you away. The gates are open, the ﬂowers are blooming and it’s all more spectacular than ever.

Experience an intimate and inspiring night with Misty Copeland, the trailblazing ballerina who made history as the first Black female principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre. Hear her incredible journey, from overcoming obstacles to becoming a global icon in the dance world and beyond. Copeland has often spoken out about being “different” in the ballet scene. From living in a motel to dancing on the stage of the Metropolitan Opera House, her story of perseverance through poverty, racism, and overcoming setbacks from injury has made Copeland an inspiring figure to millions. She is joined in conversation by screenwriterauthor-producer Susan Fales-Hill. She reflects on lessons learned, the remarkable mentors who have guided her on her path and her hopes and aspirations for the future. Also enjoy a performance by members of the prestigious ABT Studio Company, media from Misty’s legendary and trailblazing career, and some surprises, including students of Copeland’s Be Bold program, her groundbreaking afterschool dance initiative.

Saturday, April 26, 7:30 p.m. LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.

Jessie’s Girl

Drag out that neon once again and give your hair its best ‘80s ‘do. Those wild days are back — as only Jessie’s Girl can pull off, on the Paramount stage. The band of NYC’s top rock/ pop musicians and singers gets everyone into that “Back To The Eighties” vibe with the latest edition of their popular concert experience. With a lineup including four pop-rock vocalists dressing and performing as 80s icons, backed by a dynamic band, this is the deﬁnitive ‘80s experience. Throw on top of that: a load of super-fun choreography, audience participation, props, costumes bubbles, and confetti — and you have a party that audiences don’t want to leave. Jessie’s Girl has mastered over-the-top renditions of the some of world’s most unforgettable songs, all while dressed up as the iconic characters of that decade. Theater meets live music — covered with a load of ‘80s glitz.

Saturday, April 26, 8 p.m. $49.50, $37.50, $35, $25. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Photos courtesy Old Westbury Gardens Old Westbury Gardens enchants visitors with brilliant pops of color.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

APR

25

Arbor Day Tree Giveaway Stop by North Babylon Public Library to celebrate Arbor Day by planting two Atlantic ninebark seedlings.

•Where: 815 Deer Park Ave., North Babylon.

•Time: 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

•Contact: (631) 669-4020 or calendar.northbabylonpl. org/event/arbor-day-treegiveaway-244.

Vendor applications open for Argyle Park Annual Fair

The annual Argyle Fair takes place on Sept. 7 and vendor applications are now open. Participants will be notified by email when their application has been approved.

•Contact: babylonbeautification.org. or info@babylonbbs.org

Village of Babylon summer employment opportunities

Those looking for a fun and rewarding job this summer, consider the Village of Babylon. Applications are being accepted for the pool, highway and golf course and their Summer Recreation program.

•Contact: (631) 669-1500 or shorturl.at/a0tBa.

‘Elephant & Piggie’s We Are in a Play!’

The beloved musical adventure, ripped from the pages of Mo Willems’ beloved award-winning, best-selling children’s books, is back on stage at Long Island Children’s Museum. Willems’ classic characters Elephant and Piggie storm the stage in a rollicking musical romp filled with plenty of pachydermal peril and swiney suspense perfect for young audiences.

•Where: Museum Row, Garden City.

•Time: Also April 27, April 30-May 1, times vary

•Contact: licm.org or call (516) 224-5800

On stage

Eastline Theatre stages “Yentl.”

Based on Isaac Bashevis Singer’s story story, it tells of a rabbi’s daughter in 19th century Poland who has studied the Torah and refuses to play the hausfrau role traditionally allotted to Jewish women.When her father dies, she disguises herself as a man and flees to another town where she continues her studies and

MAY 2

Pink Talking Fish

•Where: 815 Deer Park Ave., North Babylon

• Time: 6:30-7:30 p.m.

•Contact: (631) 669-4020

Tick/flea prevention seminar

Babylon Public Library hosts Medical Entomologist Dr. Scott Campbell, Chief of the Arthropod-Borne Disease Lab at Suffolk County’s Department of Health Services. He discuss the medically important tick species on Long Island, their biology, habitat, the pathogens they transmit, and the best strategies to prevent tick bites in adults and children. All attendees will receive a free tick removal kit and a tick disease handbook. Registration is required.

•Where: 24 S. Carll Ave., Babylon

•Time: 6-7:30 p.m.

•Contact: (631) 669-1624 or babylonpl.librarycalendar.com/ event/tick-program-2909.

•Where: Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington

• Time: 8 p.m.

•Contact: landmarkonmainstreet.org.

Three mammoth bands. Three musical phenomenons. One idea inspired by love of the music. That’s Pink Talking Fish. The hybrid tribute fusion act takes the music from three iconic bands creating a remarkable musical jam. PTF brings their unique sound to the Landmark on Main Street stage, on their latest tour celebrating the 50th anniversary of the incredible Pink Floyd album “Wish You Were Here.” This show consists of two sets. The first will be a full rendition of this epic album from start to finish, with “Classic PTF” combinations in the second set. “Wish You Were Here” is extremely meaningful to the band members and so many music lovers around the world and PTF is thrilled to bring this album to life in 2025. Although the music from each act is different, PTF has discovered that fusing the material together creates an amazing story. The epic emotion of Pink Floyd; the funky, danceable layerings of The Talking Heads; the styles, unique compositional structures and pure fun of Phish — to merge these three into one gives music lovers a special experience. Tickets are $49 and $46.

becomes involved in an unusual romantic triangle.

•Where: BACCA Arts Center, 149 North Wellwood Ave., Lindenhurst.

•Time: Through April 26, 7:30 p.m.

•Contact: (631) 587-3696; registration at eastline.ludus. com/index.php.

APR

Earth Day Beach Cleanup

Celebrate Earth Day at beautiful Sands Preserve Preserve! Join the efforts to help prevent plastic and other harmful materials from polluting our oceans and help keep the preserve’s shoreline clean. Bring your own gloves, all other materials will be provided. No registration is required. All beach cleanup volunteers receive free admission to the Preserve, as a thank you for their help in this important mission.

•Where: 127 Middle Neck Road, Sands Point

•Time: noon-2 p.m.

•Contact: sandspointpreserveconservancy. org or call (516) 570-2185 or email info@sandspointpreserve. org

Arbor Day Festival

Planting Fields Arboretum State Park welcomes all to its annual Arbor Day Festival, celebrating the importance of trees and environmental conservation. Activities include exciting children’s crafts, kids tree climb with Wonderland Tree Care, plant clinic, tree seedling giveaways, educational booths, tree plantings with Smokey the Bear in which everyone can participate, and more. $30 per vehicle. Registration recommended.

•Where: 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay.

•Time: Through April 27, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

•Contact: plantingfields.org or call (516) 922-9210

APR 27

Historical program

The Village Babylon Historical and Preservation Society invites all to “My Betsey: The Remarkable Wife of Alexander Hamilton.” Learn about Alexander Hamilton’s wife Elizabeth Schuyler at the free program.

•Where: 117 W. Main St., Babylon.

• Time: 2-3:30 p.m.

•Contact: (631) 669-1756

Book presentation

Discuss Robert Viagas’s “Right This Way: A History of the Audience,” with the Historical Society of Islip Hamlet at Islip Public Library. The book talk covers a pop history of audiences through the ages, everything from the ancient Greeks, Lincoln’s assassination, history of applause and booing and group reactions at sports events up to and including binge-watching television, what the audience experience brings us and how it may evolve in the 2020s. No feel.

•Where: 71 Monell Ave.

•Time: 2-4 p.m.

•Contact: (631) 559-2915 or isliphamlethistory.org

APR 28

Backyard wildlife

What lives in your backyard? Children in grades K-5 can meet a variety of animals that might live in their neighborhoods at North Babylon Public Library. The presentation helps families to realize the importance of looking after our resident wildlife and how we can be better neighbors. Meet a box turtle, an opossum, a rabbit, a screech owl, and a surprise guest or two. Registration not required.

APR

30

Suffolk County Department of Labor information session

Suffolk County Department of Labor visits

North Babylon Public Library with an information table. Resources include literature for DOL services, career fair and workshop flyers, NYS labor department programs and resources for veterans.

•Where: 815 Deer Park Ave., North Babylon

•Time: 10 a.m.-noon

•Contact: (631) 669-4020

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.

Last Hope Animal Rescue Thrift & Treasures Grand Opening May 1, in Huntington

A wonderful way to start May! The official grand opening and Huntington Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting for Last Hope Animal Rescue’s new Thrift & Treasures Shop, located at 310 New York Ave., will take place Thursday, May 1, at 5 p.m.

To celebrate the occasion, customers will receive an additional 10% off all purchases — on top of regular weekly sales — from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. that day.

Pets, Pets, Pets...

JOANNE ANDERSON

The Thrift & Treasures Shop supports Last Hope’s mission to rescue and place orphaned dogs and cats, while also funding public outreach programs such as Fix-A-Feral. After three and a half years at a nearby location, Last Hope relocated to this larger, more visible storefront (across from the former Book Revue) in February.

Founded in Huntington 44 years ago by two women determined to save dogs at the local town shelter, Last Hope has grown significantly from its humble beginnings of foster homes and vet boarding. Today, the nonprofit boasts more than 400 volunteers, operates an Adoption Center at 3300 Beltagh Ave. in Wantagh, and partners with four satellite cat adoption sites inside retail

stores.

More than 30 volunteers currently run the new thrift shop — with room for more helping hands.

Last Hope rescues pets from Long Island, impoverished areas of the southern U.S., and Puerto Rico. Each year, the group finds homes for approximately 500 cats and 300 dogs, while improving the lives of thousands more through low-cost spay/ neuter vouchers and TNR (Trap/Neuter/Return) clinics.

Flea Market Roots

Over the past three decades, Last Hope built a loyal following through monthly flea markets hosted at two Nassau County churches. Jewelry was always the biggest draw. When the COVID-19 pandemic made church spaces unavailable, Last Hope opened a small thrift store in 2021. What began as a “Cocker Spaniel-sized” space quickly grew into a “St. Bernardsized” need. The new location offers room to display a wide variety of high-quality, donated merchandise in a safe, appealing environment — especially important as rescue expenses, particularly veterinary care, continue to rise.

The Magic of Thrifting for a Cause

The thrift shop is more than a retail outlet — it’s a mission-driven marketplace. Donated items find new homes, while proceeds support homeless pets. Designer handbags, costume jewelry, and vintage décor are transformed into food, heartworm treatments, and surgeries for animals in need.

Thrifting through a nonprofit like Last Hope is recycling at its best. Donations stay out of landfills while fueling rescue efforts.

Donations With a Story

Many donors and customers are longtime supporters or pet adopters. Visitors often share updates about their Last Hope pets, sometimes recognizing them from Facebook posts. As the organization’s social media writer, I can pull up archived photos from their pet’s adoption day.

Some items arrive with unique provenance. One woman, who adopted a Last Hope dog, donated a handmade monkey doll given to her by an FAO Schwarz employee — a patient of her late father, who was a doctor. The charming stuffed animal sold immediately after the story was shared.

The shop’s inventory includes designer handbags, home décor, holiday decorations, costume jewelry, quality clothing and shoes, pet supplies, housewares, and an everchanging selection of rare finds.

Refreshments will be served during the ribbon cutting from 5 to 6 p.m.

Thrift & Treasures regular hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Donations are accepted during business hours at the Huntington shop and the Wantagh Adoption Center. For more information, call 631-671-2588.

The front window and sign for the new Last Hope Animal Rescue Thrift & Treasures shop in Huntington.

April 23, 2025 —

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

OCWEN LOAN SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff, Against YINKA DANIEL, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 07/19/2022, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757, on 5/8/2025 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: 3/5/2025 File Number: 17-301761

MB 25-282. 4/9, 16, 23, 30

NOTICE is hereby given that the PLANNING BOARD of the Village of Amityville will hold a Public Hearing in the Court Room of Village Hall, 21 Ireland Place, Amityville, NY at 6:00 P.M. on

THURSDAY, May 1, 2025, to consider the following applications: Application of Lilly Kanarova on behalf of Amityville Cellars Holdings. Applicant seeks site plan and architectural review and approval to erect a new one-story restaurant and winery with cellar in multiple zoning districts pursuant to Sections 24-6 A. (1) (b) and (h), as well as 24-16 A. (1), (4), (5), (11), and (14) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the North side of Merrick Road approximately 288 feet West of Bayview Avenue, partially in a “B-2 Business” district, partially in a “Residential A” district, and partially in a “Residential B” district known as 292 Merrick Road a/k/a SCTM #101-8-1-20. By Order of the Planning Board, Village of Amityville Catherine Murdock, Clerk/Treasurer 25- 288 4/16, 23

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK

DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE UNDER THE POOLING AND SERVICING AGREEMENT RELATING TO IMPAC SECURED ASSETS CORP., MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-5, Plaintiff, AGAINST PETRONILO DEPAZ-MEJIA A/K/A PETRONILO DEPAZ-MEJIA A/K/A P DEPAZ-MEJIA, et al. Defendant(s) Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on February 19, 2025.

I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the

Babylon Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on May 7, 2025 at 9:00 AM premises known as 105 Garden Street, Copiague, NY 11726.

Please take notice that this foreclosure auction shall be conducted in compliance with the Foreclosure Auction Rules for Suffolk County and the COVID 19 Health Emergency Rules, including proper use of masks and social distancing.

All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Copiague, in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York. District 0100 Section 179.00, Block 04.00 and Lot 033.000.

Approximate amount of judgment $432,850.36 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #616592/2022.

Richard Lavorata Jr., Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLPAttorneys for Plaintiff - 40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747

25-280. 4/9, 16, 23, 30

NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Village of Amityville will hold a Public Hearing in the Court Room of Village Hall, 21 Ireland Place, Amityville, NY at 7:00 P.M. on WEDNESDAY, April 30th 2025, to consider the following applications: Application of Casey DiGaudio. Applicant seeks a variance to install an 8 foot tall vinyl fence pursuant to Section 183-139 A. (3) of the Village of Amityville Code.

Public Notices

Premises located on the West Side of Barberry Court approximately 766 feet South of Avon Place in a “Residential A“ District known as 51 Barberry Court a/k/a SCTM #101-62-32.1. Application of Richard Cassaro. Applicant seeks a variance to install a 6 foot tall vinyl fence pursuant to Section 183-139 A. (3) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the West Side of Grand Central Avenue approximately 105 feet North of Macdonald Avenue in a “Residential A“ District known as 227 Grand Central Avenue a/k/a SCTM #101-12-3-37.1.

Application of Kathleen Marren. Applicant seeks to renew a previously approved special exception for a parent-child residence pursuant to Section 183-43 C. (4) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the Northwest corner of Chichester Avenue and Carleton Avenue in a “Residential B” District known as 41 Chichester Avenue a/k/a SCTM #10111-15-20. Application of Bi Lang Wang. Applicant seeks to renew a previously approved special exception for a mixed-use dwelling consisting of a laundromat and two dwelling units pursuant to Section 183-81 A. (8) (b) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the West side of Broadway approximately 186 feet North of West Oak Street in a “B1 Business” District known as 224/226 Broadway a/k/a SCTM #101-35-10.1.

Application of Satya Kaur. Applicant

seeks to renew a previously approved special exception for a parent-child residence pursuant to Section 183-9 C. (4) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the Southwest corner of Bayview Ave and Towne Street in an “Residential A” District known as 111 Bayview Ave a/k/a SCTM #101-8-2-1.1. Application of Nicholas Bufinsky. Applicant seeks a variance to maintain a semiinground pool with insufficient side yard setback pursuant to Section 157-2 of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the West Side of Ketcham Avenue approximately 316 feet North of Cedar Street in a “Residential B” District known as 106 Ketcham Avenue a/k/a SCTM #101-5-5-25. Application of Unqua Corinthian Yacht Club. Applicants seek two variances associated with the maintenance of a 12’ x 20’ shed. Variance 1 is to increase the allowed number of accessory buildings from 4 to 5; Variance 2 is to increase the allowed maximum accessory building area from 500 SF to 2,769 SF, both pursuant to Section 183-55 of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the West side of Unqua Place approximately 670 feet South of Richmond Avenue in a “Residential B” District known as 31 Unqua Place a/k/a SCTM #101-13-1413.1.

By order of the Zoning Board of Appeals, Village of Amityville, Catherine Murdock, Clerk/Treasurer 25-285 4/16, 23

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF Suffolk, U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, not in its Individual Capacity but Solely as Indenture Trustee of CIM Trust 2022-NR1, Plaintiff, vs. Dominick Amorese a/k/a Dominick J. Amorese, as Possible Heir of the Estate of Dominick Amorese, ET AL., Defendant(s Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on February 3, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on May 27, 2025 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 44 Lafayette Avenue, Amityville, NY 11701. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Amityville, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0101, Section 001.00, Block 03.00 and Lot 017.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $218,138.96 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #612025/2023.

Scott H. Siller, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No. 222278-2 25-293. 4/23, 30, 5/7, 14

ASSESSOR'S OATH STATE OF NEW YORK ) COUNTY OF SUFFOLK ) SS: TOWN OF BABYLON ) I, the undersigned,

do depose and swear that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, I have set forth in the 2025/2026 Tentative Assessment Roll attached hereto or filed herewith all the real property situated in the assessing unit in which I am Assessor and with the exception of assessments made by the New York State Office of Real Property Services, I have estimated the value of such real property at the sums which I have determined to be in accordance with the provisions of Section Three Hundred Five of the Real Property Tax Law.

LEGAL NOTICE TO THE TAXPAYERS OF THE COPIAGUE FIRE DISTRICT:

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a resolution was duly adopted by the Board of Fire Commissioners of the COPIAGUE FIRE DISTRICT, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk, State of New York, on the 16th day of April, 2025, subject to a permissive referendum as provided for by Section 6(g) of the General Municipal Law. An extract of the resolution is as follows: The COPIAGUE FIRE DISTRICT maintains an Apparatus Reserve Fund under Section 6(g) of the General Municipal Law in which account there is sufficient funds to accomplish the purpose hereinafter set forth; namely the purchase of a new District vehicle and it is proposed to complete said purchase, in order to maintain the high standards of the COPIAGUE FIRE DEPARTMENT in the discharge of its duties in preserving the lives and property of the residents of the community and said purchase is deemed in

Matthew R. Cronin, IAO Assessor Town of Babylon 25-291 - 4/23

NOTICE The annual meeting of the plot owners of the MOUNT ARARAT CEMETERY will be held at the cemetery's offices, 1165 Rt. 109, North Lindenhurst, New York, on Monday, May 12, 2024, at 2:00 PM. The meeting will be used to elect Directors and transact any other business that may lawfully come before it.

Robert Ziolkowski, President 25-290. 4/23, 30, 5/7

the best interests of the residents of the COPIAGUE FIRE DISTRICT. The resolution further provides that there be transferred from the present Apparatus Reserve Fund of the COPIAGUE FIRE DISTRICT a sum not to exceed One Hundred Thousand ($100,000.00) Dollars and the District Treasurer is authorized to effect such transfer from time to time to effect such purchase. This resolution shall not take effect until thirty (30) days unless in the meanwhile a mandatory referendum as provided for by the General Municipal Law is required to be held.

Dated: April 16, 2025 BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS COPIAGUE FIRE DISTRICT TOWN OF BABYLON

ATTEST: Donna Marano District Secretary 25-295 4/23

Public Notices

NOTICE OF COMPLETION OF TENTATIVE ASSESSMENT ROLL ASSESSOR

(Pursuant to Sections 506 & 526

Of the Real Property Tax Law) HEARING OF COMPLAINTS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Assessor and authorized members of the Assessor’s staff of the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk, have completed the Tentative Assessment Roll for the current year of 2025/2026. A copy has been left with the Assessor at Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY where it may be seen and examined by any person until the third Tuesday in May.

THE ASSESSOR WILL BE IN ATTENDANCE WITH The Tentative Assessment Roll on:

DATE TIME LOCATION

Babylon Town Hall

1. Tuesday, May 13, 2025 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM Assessment Dept.

Babylon Town Hall

2. Wednesday, May 14, 2025 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM Assessment Dept.

Babylon Town Hall

3. Saturday, May 17, 2025 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Assessment Dept. and in the evening

Babylon Town Hall

4. Thursday, May 15, 2025 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM Assessment Dept. AN APPOINTMENT MAY BE MADE WITH THE ASSESSOR’S OFFICE DURING THE HOURS

SHOWN ABOVE at 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York 11757 By calling 631-957-3015

THE BOARD OF ASSESSMENT REVIEW will meet on the third Tuesday in May to hear and examine all complaints in relation to assessments on the application of any person believing himself to be aggrieved:

DATE TIMES

Tuesday, May 20, 2025 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

LOCATION: Board Room of Babylon Town Hall Dated this 21st day of April, 2025 Matthew R. Cronin, IAO Assessor Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk 25-292. 4/23

Supplemental Summons and Notice of Object of Action Supreme Court Of The State Of New York County Of Suffolk Action To Foreclose A Mortgage Index #: 607885/2024 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Plaintiff, vs Public Administrator Of Suffolk County As Administrator Of The Estate Of Shirley Anderson, Unknown Trustees Of The Clara Mitchell Living Trust, Dated May 06, 2002 If Living, And If He/She Be Dead, 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 Wife, Widow, Husband, Widower, Heirs At Law, Next Of Kin, Descendants, Execu-

tors, 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 Respe ctive 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 As Trustee, People Of The State Of New York, New York State Department Of Taxation And Finance, Clerk Of The Suffolk County Traffic & Parking Violations Agency, United States Of America On Behalf Of The IRS John Doe

(Those unknown tenants, occupants, persons or corporations or their heirs, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, guardians, assignees, creditors or successors claiming an interest in the mortgaged premises.) Defendant(s). Mortgaged Premises: 245 State Avenue Wyandanch, NY 11798 To the Above named Defendant: You are hereby summoned to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appear ance, on the Plaintiff(s) attorney(s) within twenty days after the service of this Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Supplemental Summons is not personally delivered to

you within the State of New York). In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. The Attorney for Plaintiff has an office for business in the County of Erie. Trial to be held in the County of Suffolk. The basis of the venue designated above is the location of the Mortgaged Premises. TO Unknown Trustees of the Clara Mitchell Living Trust, dated May 06, 2002 Defendant In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON.

C. Stephen Hackeling of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Fourth day of April, 2025 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk o f the County of Suffolk, in

the City of Riverhead. The object of this action is to foreclosure a mortgage upon the premises described below, dated April 23, 1996, executed by Shirley Anderson (who died on February 15, 2004, a resident of the county of Suffolk, State of New York) and Clara Mitchell (who died on November 19, 2017, a resident of the county of Suffolk, State of New York) to secure the sum of $64,417.00. The Mortgage was recorded at Book 19056, Page 632 in the Office of the Suffolk County Clerk on April 30, 1996. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed April 23, 1996 and recorded on May 9, 1996, in the Office of the Suffolk County Clerk at Book 19060, Page 191. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed August 16, 1996 and recorded on October 30, 1996, in the Office of the Suffolk County Clerk at Book 19125, Page 439. The mortgage was subsequently modified on February 18, 2003. The property in question is described as follow s: 245 State Avenue, Wyandanch, NY 11798 HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS IN FORECLOSURE NEW YORK STATE LAW REQUIRES THAT WE SEND YOU THIS NOTICE ABOUT THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY. SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. IF YOU FAIL TO RESPOND TO THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT IN THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION, YOU MAY LOSE YOUR HOME. PLEASE READ THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT CAREFUL-

LY. YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATELY CONTACT AN ATTORNEY OR YOUR LOCAL LEGAL AID OFFICE TO OBTAIN ADVICE ON HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF. SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE The state encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure. In addition to seeking assistance from an attorney or legal aid office, there are government agencies and non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about possible options, including trying to work with your lender during this process. To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York Sta te Department of Financial Services at 1-800342-3736 or the Foreclosure Relief Hotline 1-800-269-0990 or visit the department's website at WWW.DFS. NY.GOV. RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO LEAVE YOUR HOME AT THIS TIME. YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO STAY IN YOUR HOME DURING THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO LEAVE YOUR HOME UNLESS AND UNTIL YOUR PROPERTY IS SOLD AT AUCTION PURSUANT TO A JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AND SALE. REGARDLESS OF WHETHER YOU CHOOSE TO REMAIN IN YOUR HOME, YOU ARE REQUIRED TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR PROPERTY AND PAY PROPERTY TAXES IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE AND LOCAL LAW. FORECLOSURE RESCUE

SCAMS Be careful of people who approach you with offers to have your home. There are individuals who watch for notices of foreclosure actions in order to unfairly profit from a homeowner's distress. You should be extremely careful about any such promises and any suggestions that you pay them a fee or sign over your dee d. State law requires anyone offering such services for profit to enter into a contract which fully describes the services they will perform and fees they will charge, and which prohibits them from taking any money from you until they have completed all such promised services. ｧ 1303 NOTICE 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 an-

swer 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 your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.

DATED: April 9, 2025 Gross Polowy LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221 The law firm of Gross Polowy LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 85337 25-294. 4/23, 30, 5/7, 14

BOARD OF EDUCATION

AMITYVILLE UFSD

REGULAR MONTH-

LY BUSINESS MEETING – MARCH 26, 2025

ACTION AGENDA ITEM

2C-1

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING, BUDGET VOTE AND ELECTION

AMITYVILLE

UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT

TOWNS OF BABYLON, SUFFOLK COUNTY AND, OYSTER BAY, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN, that a budget hearing before the qualified voters of the Amityville Union Free School District, Town of Babylon, Suffolk County, and Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, New York will be held at the Amityville Park Avenue

Memorial Elementary School, 140 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York, in said District on May 7, 2025 at 7:30 p.m., for the transaction of business as authorized by the Education Law, including the following items:

1. To present to the voters a detailed statement (proposed budget) of the amount of money which will be required for the 20252026 fiscal year.

2. To discuss all the items hereinafter set forth to be voted upon by voting machines at the vote and election to be held on Tuesday, May 20. 2025

3. To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting pursuant to Education Law of the State of New York and acts amendatory thereto.

A copy of the proposed budget shall be made available, upon request, to residents of the school district beginning May 5, 2025

through and including May 20, 2025 during regular business hours at the Office of the District Clerk, Park North Administration Building, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to Chapter 258 of the Laws of 2008, Section 495 was added to the Real Property Tax Law, and requires the School District to attach to its proposed budget an exemption report. Said exemption report, which will also become part of the final budget, will show how much of the total assessed value on the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt from taxation, list every type of exemption granted, identified by statutory authority, and show: (a) the cumulative impact of each type of exemption expressed either as a dollar amount of assessed value or as a percentage of the total assessed value on the roll; (b) the cumulative amount expected to be received from recipients of each type of exemption as payments in lieu of taxes or other payments for municipal services; and (c) the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted. The exemption report shall be posted on any bulletin board maintained by the District for public notices and on any website maintained by the District. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the annual vote and election will be held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., in the two election districts, namely Northeast Elementary School, 420 Albany Avenue, Amityville, New York, and Amityville Memorial High School, 250 Merrick

Road, Amityville, New York, at which time the polls will be opened to vote by voting machine upon the following items:

• To adopt the annual budget of the School District for the fiscal year 20252026 and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the District.

• To elect two members of the Board of Education as follows:

• One member of the Board of Education for a three (3) year term to succeed Christopher Nehring, whose term expires on May 20, 2025.

• One member of the Board of Education for a three (3) year term to succeed Wendy Canestro, whose term expires on June 30, 2025; AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a copy of the statement of the amount of money which will be required to fund the School District’s budget for 2025-2026, exclusive of public monies, may be obtained by any resident of the District during business hours beginning May 5, 2025 through and including May 20, 2025, except Saturday, Sunday or holidays, at the Park North Administration Building, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York, and at each of the following schoolhouses:

Amityville Memorial High School

Edmund W. Miles Middle School Park Avenue Memorial Elementary School Northwest Elementary School Northeast Elementary School AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that petitions nominating candidates for the office of

Public Notices

member of the Board of Education shall be filed with the Clerk of said School District at her office in the Park North Administration Building, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York, not later than April 21, 2025 between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Vacancies on the Board of Education are not considered separate, specific offices; candidates run at large. Nominating petitions shall not describe any specific vacancy upon the Board for which the candidate is nominated; must be directed to the Clerk of the District; must be signed by at least 35 qualified voters of the District (representing the greater of 25 qualified voters or 2% of the number of voters who voted in the previous annual election); must state the name and residence of each signer, and, must state the name and residence of the candidate.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that applications for absentee ballots will be obtainable during school business hours at the office of the District Clerk beginning April 21, 2025; completed applications must be received by the District Clerk at least seven days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election, if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or to the agent named in the absentee ballot application. Absentee ballots must be received by the District Clerk not later than 5:00 p.m., on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. Absentee Ballot applications will not be accepted by the District more than 30 days prior to the election.

A list of persons to whom absentee ballots are issued will be

available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the office of the District Clerk, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York, on and after Thursday, May 15, 2025 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on weekdays prior to the day set for the annual election and on May 20, 2025 the day set for the election. Any qualified voter may, upon examination of such list, file a written challenge of the qualifications as a voter of any person whose name appears on such list, stating the reasons for such challenge. Any such written challenge shall be transmitted by the District Clerk or a designee of the Board of Education to the inspectors of election on election day.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that personal registration of voters is required either pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law or pursuant to Article 5 of the Election Law. If a voter has heretofore registered pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law in the Amityville Union Free School District and has voted at an annual or special district meeting in such district within the last four calendar years, he or she is eligible to vote at this election. If a voter is registered and eligible to vote under Article 5 of the Election Law, he or she is also eligible to vote at this election. All other persons who wish to vote must register. Voters may register to vote on any school day up to and including May 15, 2025 at the District Office, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. at which time any person will be entitled to have his or her name

placed on such registers, provided that he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of the Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at such election for which the register is prepared. The register so prepared pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law will be filed in the Office of the Clerk of the School District in the Park North Administration Building, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York, and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District beginning on May 15, 2025, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., on weekdays, and each day prior to the day set for the election, except Sunday, by advance appointment on Saturday and at the polling place(s) on the day of the vote. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN, that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the Amityville Union Free School District by requesting and returning a registration application to the District Clerk in person, by mail to District Clerk, Amityville Union Free School District, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York, 11701 by email to llarson@amityvilleufsd.org or fax sent to (631) 598-6586. The request for the registration application may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the registration application, by either mail, fax or email. Military voter registration application forms must be received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 24, 2025.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are

qualified voters of the Amityville Union Free School District, may request an application for a military ballot from the District Clerk in person, by mail to District Clerk, Amityville Union Free School District, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York, by email to llarson@ amityvilleufsd.org or fax sent to (631) 5986586. In such request, the military voter may indicate their preference for receiving the application by mail, fax or email. A military voter must return the original military ballot application by mail or in person to the office of the District Clerk at 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York. In order for a military voter to be issued a military ballot, a valid military ballot application must be received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m., on April 24, 2025. Military ballot applications received in accordance with the foregoing will be processed in the same manner as a non-military ballot application under Section 2018-a of the Education Law. The application for military ballot may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the military ballot by mail, fax, or email.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, a military voter’s original military ballot must be returned by mail or in person to the Office of the District Clerk at 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York. Military ballots shall be canvassed if they are received by the District Clerk before the close of polls on May 20, 2025 showing a cancellation mark of the United States Postal Service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a

dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States Government; or received not later than 5:00 p.m. on May 20, 2025 and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is ascertained to be not later than the day before the election. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to §2014 of the Education Law of the State of New York, the Board of Registration will meet on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., at the Northeast Elementary School and the Amityville High School, to prepare the Register of the School District to be used at the election to be held in 2026, and any special district meetings that may be held after the preparation of said Register, at which time any person will be entitled to have his or her name placed on such Register provided that at such meeting of said Board of Registration he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of such Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at the school election for which said Register is prepared, or any special district meeting held after May 20, 2025. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to a rule adopted by the Board of Education in accordance with §2035 of the Education Law, any referenda or propositions to amend the budget, or otherwise to be submitted for voting at said election, must be filed with the District Clerk of the Board of Education at the Park North Administration Building, located Continued on next page

Continued from previous page

at 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York, on or before March 21, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., prevailing time, except for petitions relating to a proposition which must be included in the notice of the annual meeting which must be filed with the District Clerk of the Board of Education at the Park North Administration Building on or before April 21, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.; must be typed or printed in the English language; must be directed to the Clerk of the School District; must be signed by at least 35 qualified voters of the District (representing 2% of the number of voters who voted in the previous annual election); and must legibly state the name of each signer. However, the School Board will not entertain any petition to place before the voters any proposition the purpose of which is not within the powers of the voters to determine, which is unlawful or any proposition which fails to include a specific appropriation where the expenditure of monies is required by the proposition, or where other valid reason exists for excluding the proposition from the ballot.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that election districts have been established in the School District. The boundaries of the election districts, as adopted by resolution of the Board of Education, and the polling place in each election district shall be as follows: Election District No. 1 – Northeast Elementary School

• North by school district boundary line (Southern State Parkway)

• East by school district bound-

ary line (Great Neck Road, Albany Avenue and Bayview Avenue)

• South by Long Island Rail Road

• West by School district boundary line (Carman Road)

• Being that part of the School District North of the Long Island Railroad Election District No. 2 – Amityville Memorial High School

• North by Long Island Rail Road

• East by school district boundary line (Amityville Village line)

• South by school district boundary line (Great South Bay)

• West by school district boundary line (Carman River and Carman Road)

• Being that part of the School District South of the Long Island Railroad Dated: Amityville, New York March 26, 2025

By Order of the Board of Education of the Amityville Union Free School District

Towns of Babylon, Suffolk County and Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, New York

Lynn Larson, District Clerk 25-276. 4/2, 9, 16, 23

AVISO DE JUNTA ANUAL, VOTACIÓN DE PRESUPUESTO Y ELECCIÓN EN EL DISTRITO ESCOLAR DE AMITYVILLE (AMITYVILLE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT) MUNICIPIO DE BABYLON, MUNICIPIO DE OYSTER BAY, CONDADO DE SUFFOLK Y, CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK

POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO, de que va a llevar a cabo una audiencia presupuestaria ante los votantes calificados del Distrito

Escolar de Amityville (Amityville Union Free School District), Municipio de Babylon, Municipio de Oyster Bay, Condado de Suffolk y Condado de Nassau, Nueva York en Amityville Park Avenue Memorial Elementary, 140 Park Avenue, Amityville, Nueva York, en dicho distrito el 7 de mayo de 2025 a las 7:30 pm, para la gestión de los siguientes asuntos tal y como faculta la Ley de Educación, incluidos los siguientes elementos:

• Presentar a los votantes una declaración detallada (propuesta de presupuesto) de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para el año fiscal 2025-2026.

•Discutir todos los puntos que se establecen a continuación para ser sometidos a plebiscito mediante máquinas de sufragio para la votación y elección que se realizará el martes 20 de mayo de 2025.

•Tratar cualquier otro asunto debidamente presentado antes de la reunión de conformidad con la Ley de Educación del Estado de Nueva York y cualquier enmienda a ella.

Se pondrá a disposición de los residentes del distrito escolar una copia del presupuesto propuesto, previa solicitud, a partir del 5 de mayo de 2025 hasta el 20 de mayo de 2025 inclusive durante el horario de atencion al publico habitual en la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito, Edificio de Administración Park North, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, Nueva York.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, que de conformidad con el Capítulo 258 de las Leyes de 2008, fue incorporada la Sección 495 a la Ley del Impuesto sobre la Propie-

Public Notices

dad Inmobiliaria, por la que se requiere que el Distrito Escolar adjunte a su propuesta de presupuesto, un informe de exención. Dicho informe de exención, que también pasará a formar parte del presupuesto final, mostrará qué parte del valor tasado total en el registro tributario final usado en el proceso presupuestario está exento de impuestos, se enumeran todos los tipos de exenciones otorgadas, identificadas por la autoridad legal, mostrando: (a) el impacto acumulado de cada tipo de exención expresado bien como una cantidad en dólares del valor tasado o como un porcentaje del valor tasado total en el registro; (b) el monto acumulado que se espera recibir de los beneficiarios de cada tipo de exención como pagos en lugar de impuestos u otros pagos por servicios municipales; y (c) el impacto acumulado de todas las exenciones otorgadas. El informe de exención se publicará en alguno de los tablones de anuncios que tiene el Distrito para avisos públicos y en cualquier sitio web administrado por el Distrito.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, de que la votación y elecciones anuales se llevarán a cabo el martes 20 de mayo de 2025, entre las 7:00 am y las 9:00 pm, en los dos distritos electorales, a saber, Northeast Elementary School, 420 Albany Avenue, Amityville, Nueva York, y Amityville Memorial High School, 250 Merrick Road, Amityville, Nueva York, cuando estarán abiertas las urnas para votar mediante máquinas de votación sobre los siguientes asuntos:

• Adoptar el presupuesto anual del Distrito Escolar para el

año fiscal 2025-2026 y autorizar que la cuota requerida del mismo se recaude mediante los impuestos sobre las propiedades sujetas a tributación en el distrito.

• Elegir dos miembros de la Junta de Educación de la siguiente manera:

• Un miembro de la Junta de Educación por un plazo de tres (3) años para suceder a Christopher Nehring, cuyo mandato expira el 20 de mayo de 2025

• Un miembro de la Junta de Educación por un plazo de tres (3) años para suceder a Wendy Canestro, cuyo mandato expira el 30 de junio de 2025.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, de que cualquier residente del Distrito puede obtener una copia del estado de cuenta con el importe necesario para financiar el presupuesto del Distrito Escolar durante 2025-2026, excluyendo el dinero público, durante las horas de atención al público, a partir del 5 de mayo de 2025 hasta el 20 de mayo de 2025 inclusive, excepto sábados, domingos o festivos, en el Edificio de Administración de Park Avenue, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, Nueva York, y en cada una de las siguientes escuelas:

Amityville Memorial High School

Edmund W. Miles Middle School Park Avenue Memorial Elementary School Northwest Elementary School

Northeast Elementary School

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO

ADICIONAL, de que las solicitudes para nominar a los candidatos para los cargos en la Junta de Educación deberán presentarse ante la Secretaria de dicho

Distrito Escolar en su oficina en el Edificio de Administración de Park North,150 Park Avenue, Amityville, New York no más tarde del 21 de abril de 2025 entre el 9:00 am y 5:00 pm. Los puestos vacantes en la Junta de Educación no se consideran cargos independientes específicos, los candidatos se presentan en general. Las solicitudes de nominación no deberán indicar ninguna vacante especifica en la Junta para la que el candidato está nominado, deben estar dirigidas a la Secretaria del Distrito, deberán estar firmadas al menos por 35 votantes calificados del Distrito (representando a más de 25 votantes calificados o el 2% del total de votantes que participaron en la elección anual previa); deberá indicar el nombre y domicilio de cada firmante y deberán indicar el nombre y el domicilio del candidato.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, de que las solicitudes para las papeletas de voto en ausencia se podrán obtener durante el horario de atencion al publico en la oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito a partir del 21 de abril de 2025; Las solicitudes completas deben ser recibidas en la Secretaría del distrito al menos siete días antes de la elección si la papeleta se va a enviar por correo al votante, o el día antes de la elección, si la papeleta se va a entregar personalmente al votante o al agente designado en la solicitud de voto en ausencia . La Secretaria del Distrito debe recibir las papeletas de voto en ausencia no más tarde de las 5:00 p.m. del martes 20 de mayo de 2025. El distrito no aceptará solicitudes para papeletas de voto en

aus encia más de 30 días antes de la elección.

La lista con las personas a las que se les ha emitido las papeletas de voto en ausencia estará disponible para ser inspeccionada por los votantes calificados del Distrito en la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito, 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, Nueva York a partir y después del 15 de mayo de 2025 entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 4:00 p.m. los días laborables anteriores al día establecido para la elección anual y el mismo día 20 de mayo de 2025, día establecido para la elección. Cualquier votante cualificado puede, al examinar dicha lista, presentar una impugnación por escrito sobre la habilitación como votante de cualquier persona cuyo nombre aparezca en dicha lista, indicando las razones de dicha impugnación. Cualquier impugnación por escrito será transmitida a los inspectores electorales por la Secretaria del Distrito o una persona designada por la Junta de Educación el día de la elección.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, de que es necesario el registro en persona de los votantes conforme a la sección §2014 de la Ley de Educación o conforme al Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral. Si un votante está registrado con anterioridad conforme a § 2014 de la Ley de Educación en el Distrito Escolar de Amityville (Amityville Union Free School District) y ha votado en alguna reunión anual o especial en dicho distrito dentro de los últimos cuatro años naturales, será elegible para votar en esta elección. Si un votante está registrado y es elegible para votar bajo el Artículo 5 de la

Ley Electoral,será también apto para votar en esta elección. Todas las demás personas que deseen votar deben registrarse. Los votantes pueden registrarse para votar cualquier día lectivo antes de o el mismo día 15 de mayo de 2025 en las Oficinas del Distrito,150 Park Avenue, Amityville, Nueva York, entre las 8:30 a.m. y las 4:00 p.m., momento en el que cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se incluya en dichos registros, siempre y cuando él o ella cumplan con los requisitos de la Junta de Registro para tener el derecho de votar a partir de ese momento o en el futuro en las elecciones para las que se establece el registro. El registro así establecido de conformidad con §2014 de la Ley de Educación se archivará en la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito Escolar en el Edificio Administrativo de Park North, y se abrirá para poder ser inspeccionado por cualquier votante cualificado del Distrito a partir del 15 de mayo. 2025, entre las 9:00 A.M. Y las 4:00 P.M., de lunes a viernes, los días previos al día fijado para la elección, excepto el domingo, con cita previa el sábado y en los centros de votación el mismo día de la votación. Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, de que los votantes militares que no están registrados actualmente pueden solicitar registrarse como votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar de Amityville (Amityville Union Free School District) solicitando y devolviendo una solicitud de registro a la Secretaria del Distrito en persona, por correo a la

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Secretaria del Distrito, Distrito Escolar de Amityville (Amityville Union Free School District), 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, Nueva York, 11701 por correo electrónico a llarson@ amityvilleufsd.org o por fax al (631) 5986586. La solicitud de registro puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar para recibir la solicitud de registro, ya sea por correo, fax o correo electrónico. La solicitud de inscripción en el registro de los votantes militares debe recibirse en la oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito no más tarde de las 5:00 p.m. el 24 de abril de 2025.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO

ADICIONAL, de que los votantes militares que sean votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar de Amityville (Amityville Union Free School District), pueden solicitar papeletas de voto para militares en la Secretaria del Distrito en persona, por correo a la Secretaria del Distrito, Distrito Escolar de Amityville (Amityville Union Free School District), 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, Nueva York, por correo electrónico a llarson@amityvilleufsd.org o por fax al (631)598-6586. En dicha solicitud, el votante militar puede indicar su preferencia para recibir la solicitud por correo postal, fax o correo electrónico. Los militares que voten deben devolver la solicitud original de papeletas de voto para militares por correo o en persona a la oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, Nueva York. Para que un votante militar reciba una papeleta de voto para militares, se debe recibir una

solicitud de papeleta de voto para militares válida en la oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito no más tarde de las 5:00 p.m., el 24 de abril de 2025. Las solicitudes de papeleta de voto para militares recibidas de acuerdo con lo anterior se procesarán de la misma manera que una solicitud de papeleta de voto no militar bajo la Sección 2018-a de la Ley de Educación. La solicitud de papeleta de voto para militares puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar de recibir la papeleta de voto por correo, fax o correo electrónico.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO

ADICIONAL, de que el original de la papeleta de voto de un votante militar debe devolverse por correo o en persona a la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito en 150 Park Avenue, Amityville, Nueva York. Las papeletas de votos de militares serán escrutadas si son recibidas por la Secretaria del Distrito antes del cierre de las urnas el 20 de mayo de 2025 mostrando un matasellos del Servicio Postal de los Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o mostrando el acuso de recibo de otra agencia del Gobierno de los Estados Unidos; o recibido a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. el 20 de mayo de 2025 y firmado y fechado por el elector militar y un testigo del mismo, con una fecha que se verifica no posterior al día anterior a la elección.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO

ADICIONAL, de que de conformidad con la §2014 de la Ley de Educación del Estado de Nueva York, la Junta de Registro se reunirá el martes 20 de mayo de 2025, entre las 7:00 A.M. Y las 9:00

P.M., en Northeast Elementary School y Amityville Memorial High School, para preparar el Registro del Distrito Escolar que se utilizará en la elección que se llevará a cabo en 2026, y cualquier reunión especial del distrito que pueda realizarse después de la preparación de dicho Registro, momento en el que, cualquier persona tendrá derecho de inscribir su nombre en dicho Registro, siempre que en dicha reunión de la Junta de Registro se demuestre que el o ella cumplen con los requisitos de dicha Junta de Registro otorgándole el derecho a votar en ese momento o en el futuro, en las elecciones de la escuela para las que se establece dicho Registro, o cualquier reunión especial del distrito que se lleve a cabo después del 20 de mayo de 2025.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, que de conformidad con una regla adoptada por la Junta de Educación de acuerdo con la sección §2035 de la Ley de Educación, cualquier referéndum o propuesta para modificar el presupuesto, o cualquier otro asunto que sea sometido a votación en dicha elecciones, deberá presentarse ante la Secretaria del Distrito de la Junta de Educación en el Edificio de Administración de Park North, el mismo dia o antes del 21 de marzo a las 5:00 pm, hora vigente, excepto las peticiones relacionadas con una proposición que deba ser incluida en el avviso de la reunión anual que debe ser registrado en la Secretaria del Distrito de la Junta de Educación el mismo dia o antes del 21 de abril de 2025 a las 5:00 pm deberá estar mecanografiado o impreso en el idioma inglés; deberá estar

Public Notices

dirigido a la Secretaria del Distrito Escolar; deberá estar firmado por al menos 35 votantes calificados del Distrito (que representan el 2% del número total de votantes en la elección anual anterior); y deberá indicar de manera legible el nombre de cada firmante. Sin embargo, la Junta Escolar no aceptará ninguna proposición para presentar a los votantes cuyo propósito no esté dentro de las atribuciones de los votantes, ya que sería ilegal, o cualquier proposición que no incluya una asignación específica de los gastos incurridos mediante dicha propuesta, o cuando exista cualquier otra razón válida para excluir la propuesta de las papeletas de votación.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, de que se han establecido distritos electorales en el Distrito Escolar. Los límites de los distritos electorales, adoptados por resolución de la Junta de Educación, y el lugar de votación en cada distrito electoral serán los siguientes: Distrito Electoral No. 1-Northeast Elementary School

•Al l Norte por la línea fronteriza del distrito escolar (Southern State Parkway)

•Al este por la línea fronteriza del distrito escolar (Great Neck Road, Albany Avenue y Bayview Avenue)

• Al Sur por Long Island Rail Road (Ferrocarril de LI)

• Al Oeste por la línea fronteriza del distrito escolar (Carman Road)

• Siendo esa parte del distrito escolar al norte del Long Island Rail Road Distrito Electoral No. 2-Amityville Memorial High School

•Al Norte por el Long Island Rail Road

•Al Este por la línea

fronteriza del distrito escolar (línea de Amityville Village)

•Al Sur por la línea fronteriza del distrito escolar (Great South Bay)

•Al oeste por la línea fronteriza del distrito escolar (Carman River y Carman Road)

•Siendo esa parte del distrito escolar al sur del Long Island Rail Road

Fecha: Amityville, Nueva York

26 de marzo de 2025 Por orden de la Junta de Educación de la Amityville UFSD Ciudad de Oyster Bay, Ciudad de Babylon, Condado de Nassau y Condado de Suffolk, Nueva York

Lynn Larson, Secretaria del Distrito 25-277 4/2, 9, 16, 23

LEGAL NOTICE TO THE TAXPAYERS OF THE COPIAGUE FIRE DISTRICT:

An extract of the resolution is as follows: The COPIAGUE FIRE DISTRICT maintains a Buildings, Furnishings and Equipment Reserve Fund under Section 6(g) of the General Municipal Law in which account there is sufficient funds to accomplish the purpose hereinafter set forth; namely, the purchase of furniture, cooking equipment, gear racks and flag poles for Fire District facilities and it is proposed to contract for such work and purchases, in order

to maintain the high standards of the COPIAGUE FIRE DEPARTMENT in the discharge of its duties in preserving the lives and property of the residents of the community and said work and purchases are deemed in the best interests of the residents of the COPIAGUE FIRE DISTRICT. The resolution further provides that there be transferred from the present Building, Furnishing and Equipment Reserve Fund of the COPIAGUE FIRE DISTRICT a sum not to exceed One Hundred Seventy Five Thousand ($175,000.00) Dollars for said work and purchases, and the District Treasurer is authorized to effect such transfer from time to time to effect such work and purchases. This resolution shall not take effect until thirty (30) days unless in the meanwhile a mandatory referendum as provided for by the General Municipal Law is required to be held.

Dated: April 16, 2025 BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS COPIAGUE FIRE DISTRICT TOWN OF BABYLON ATTEST: Donna Marano District Secretary 25-296-4/23

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, MAY 8, 2025 BEGINNING AT 6:00 P.M. 6:00 p.m.

1. Application #25059 Gabriella Smalls and Kenneth Coleman, 60 Barclay Street, West Babylon, NY. Permission to increase total building area from 20% to 42.34% (over by 2,234 sq. ft.); diminish distance to rear lot line from 2’ to 1.4’ (for concrete patio). All in connection with the erection of an inground pool and to legally maintain a masonry patio and concrete basketball court. Property located on the south side of Barclay Street, 275’ west of Lamont Place, West Babylon, NY.

SCTM#0100-1051-101

Zoning District: Residence B 6:05 p.m.

SCTM#0100-1783-43 & 44

Zoning District: Downtown Copiague Subject Premises: 1649-1653 Great Neck Road, Copiague, NY 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 14, 2025 25-297. 4/23

2. Application #25060 Pavlo Tupychak (applicant)/1649 Copiague LLC (prop. owner), 517 Oak Street, Copiague, NY. Permission to diminish rear yard setback from 15’ to 0.8’ (for existing garage). All in connection with the erection of a three-story mixed-use building with 19 rental units and tolegally maintain an existing accessory building for a garage with a 2nd floor office. Property located on the west side of Great Neck Road, 65’ south of Oak Street, Copiague, NY.

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Redoing a basement before the tariffs kick in

Q. We bought our home three years ago, and are finally ready to finish our basement to make a family room, guest bedroom and a bathroom while enclosing our laundry. Right now it’s just a big open space with a lot of columns. The ceiling is low, and we’ve had estimates to cut down the basement floor. It seems like a lot of money to do all these things at once, but we understand that we need to do it before the prices for materials, as we’ve been warned, go a lot higher. We want to know what needs to be done if we want to lower the floor, take out two columns so our recreation room is bigger, and put in a bathroom. Is there any way to save money?

A. I doubt that you’ll save money, since you are correct that prices are creeping up, but only because of the uncertainty of markets. It seems that the Canada lumber tariffs may not take affect so rapidly, because Congress — including those from both sides of the aisle — is reportedly working on bills to stop the economic strife with our neighbor to the north. But it’s anybody’s guess, right now, day to day.

Basements have always seemed so minor when compared with additions and other renovations, but there are many safety codes you should become familiar with. First, many jurisdictions disallow any sleeping room in basements. Bathrooms are allowed in most jurisdictions, but verify whether a bathing fixture, shower or tub, is allowed. Some will only allow a toilet and sink.

You also need a second means of escape from the main room, not just the staircase you already have from the first floor. You’ll need an escape window or stairwell to the outside. If you choose a window, the sill can’t be more than 44 inches above the floor, and the window must have at least 5.7 square feet of clear opening, swinging outward into a 9-squarefoot (3 feet by 3 feet minimum) area of escape well with a ladder to get out to the ground level. I’ve watched these escape wells go from $3,500 to $12,000 over the past decade.

You will also be required to insulate the basement walls, and insulation must meet the State Energy Code, because when the basement is done legally, with a permit, it must pass the energy code analysis submission to the state’s website portal.

Many people, hearing all these requirements, elect to skirt the rules by hiring someone who does what they think will pass. When you are required to legalize the work, as the responsible party (the homeowner) in the process, sometimes work has to be redone because someone missed something. There’s a reason that professionals have to be involved, and it’s best not to try to save money by avoiding the inevitable, because experience teaches that the rules don’t get simpler over time. More next week.

© 2022 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.

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Clean-energy tax credits are worth keeping

Congress is currently debating the country’s budget — a process that could result in the repeal of clean-energy tax credits that have benefited Long Island families, small businesses and workers. These investments have supported the transition to clean energy, stimulated economic growth and helped create good jobs. Now they’re on the chopping block, and that’s a mistake we can’t afford to make.

In 2022, the federal government unveiled an unprecedented number of new financial incentives for clean energy that aimed to revitalize domestic manufacturing, expand American-made energy resources and reduce costs for working families. Among these incentives is a set of tax credits that have spurred a massive uptick in local job creation and environmental benefits.

Republicans in sending a letter to other congressional leaders, calling on them to protect the tax credits. We commend Garbarino for his leadership, and urge all members of Congress — on both sides of the aisle — to follow his lead and preserve these benefits.

As Long Islanders and as representatives of the Nature Conservancy and the Long Island Contractors Association, we’re deeply concerned about what could happen if these tax credits disappeared. The consequences would be immediate, wide-ranging and deeply felt by working families and local businesses.

The most immediate impact would be felt in the wallets of working families.

13,600 jobs every year, according to an analysis by BW Research Partnership, commissioned by the Nature Conservancy. Over seven years, that’s more than 95,000 jobs for local families. If the tax credits disappear, those jobs could disappear as well.

Businesses are also relying on them, because eliminating them would disrupt operations and raise costs for working families. Many in Congress are calling for an all-of-the-above approach to expand domestic energy production and secure energy independence. That requires diversifying our resources and continuing the clean energy rollout.

stand to lose significant environmental benefits. Cleaner air to breathe, fewer children treated in emergency rooms for asthma attacks, and longer lives for our parents and grandparents are all benefits of transitioning away from dirty fossil fuels. By adding more clean energy to our grid, we’re reducing the amount of pollution that enters our air and water.

Despite the clear economic and environmental progress they have prompted, these tax breaks are now at risk. That’s why we’re urging Congress to stand up for them, because they are helping local families. Fortunately, some members of Congress are already doing just that.

Long Island’s own U.S. Rep. Andrew Garbarino is one such champion. Earlier this month, Garbarino led a group of

A recent study estimated that if the credits were repealed, by 2026, average residential electricity costs would increase by 7 percent and business costs would increase by 10 percent. Many Long Island families simply can’t afford that.

But the damage wouldn’t stop there. Ending these tax credits would also puts good jobs at risk. In their first year alone, the credits and other incentives created roughly 150,000 new clean-energy jobs across the country. Here in New York, the credits support more than

We’re living through a bold and necessary transformation of our energy systems. Never before have we had access to so many varied sources of electricity. Beyond traditional energy sources, clean-energy technologies such as solar and wind are powering Long Island homes and businesses. In 2023, roughly one-third of New York’s energy came from renewable sources. Preserving this energy diversity is critical for reliability and cost, because building renewable energy costs less and is far healthier for our families and businesses.

If these tax breaks go away, we also

Life on Long Island is deeply tied to our natural spaces and iconic beaches. We know how important it is to protect our environment for future generations. These tax credits are helping build a safer, healthier future for our children. Losing them would be a mistake with lasting consequences.

It’s encouraging to know that our local representatives are committed to our community by protecting these incentives. We are grateful to the Long Island members of Congress championing them, and we urge all representatives to follow their leadership. The future of our economy, our environment and our communities depends on it.

Mark Herbst is executive director of the Long Island Contractors’ Association. Kevin McDonald is Long Island policy adviser to the Nature Conservancy.

Why is the Church advocating illegal immigration?

Last month the Herald featured an op-ed essay by two nuns, Mary Beth Moore and Evelyn Lamoureux, entitled, “We must protect our immigrants.” The sisters’ argument, while fully sincere, was flawed because it failed to distinguish between legal and illegal immigration. It is the same blurring of the two immigrant classes that was evident in a recent homily I heard at a Long Island church. I was born to an Italian Catholic mom and a non-religious dad from a Jewish background. I followed my mother’s religion and was baptized, and even went to a Catholic school in Queens through fifth grade. While attending a Mass last month, I cringed listening to a priest who sought to shame parishioners into supporting illegal immigration. He didn’t tell us to accept illegal immigration, but he failed to distinguish between the legal and illegal variety. He threw all immigrants into the same bucket. If you supported illegal immigration, you were being a

Good Samaritan. If you didn’t, you were failing to follow God’s path.

I found that to be somewhat contradictory to the rules I learned in Catholic school. There, if you cut in line in front of someone else who was waiting patiently, you’d probably be whacked on the knuckles with a ruler. Follow the rules, the nuns would say, or face the consequences.

TSo you may understand my bewilderment as to why the present-day leaders of the Church are now telling people from all over the world that they can ignore the rules and cut in line, in front of others who have been waiting patiently for years to enter our country the right way. Pope Francis has not been shy about blasting the Trump administration about its efforts to control the border. But border czar Tom Homan was right on the money when he pointed out the fact that the Vatican continues to have a wall in place, along with a security detail, to make sure that only those who are permitted and vetted enter the inner sanctums of Vatican City. Can it be that the Church is teaching rules for thee, but not for me? Would squatters be able to pitch tents in the Vatican and claim

the area as their home? Not a chance. Could there be some other reasons for the Church’s recent advocacy for breaking rules when it comes to immigration?

hey’re telling people all over the world that they can ignore the rules.

Well, here are two theories, and they both require us to follow the money. One is that the Church lost a great deal of donations and members after the sex scandal that was exposed decades ago. Importing millions of Catholics from south of the border could only help replenish some of those vacancies in church pews.

Secondly, a little known secret is that from 2021 to 2023 alone, the federal government doled out over $300 million to the Catholic Church and Catholic charities to be the conduits in caring for the millions of illegal immigrants the government allowed to come here. The present administration has expressed its desire to end that practice.

If you want to look at things from a humanitarian perspective, you can’t overlook the following dislocations presented by illegal migration. Veterans have been kicked out of housing units to make room for these migrants. Children had to give up a soccer field so it could

be used to handle the mass influx of newcomers. Homelessness soared by 18 percent for individuals and 39 percent for families, due in part to the pressure that millions of new illegal immigrants placed on the housing market.

The City of New York had to shell out $10 billion to house and feed people who had no right to be here in the first place. Schools have had to absorb millions of their children, most of whom didn’t know English. Legitimate contractors wanting to pay their workers health benefits and workers comp were put out of business by those who cheated by hiring illegal day laborers. Wages for America’s working class stagnated due in part to the illegal hirings.

Here’s hoping that the Church will go back to the times I remember as a child, when it promoted compassion and caring for the less fortunate while still preaching that those seeking to enjoy our American freedoms should at least play by the rules we put in place to ensure order and fairness. Like I learned in Catholic school.

Steve Levy is president of Common Sense Strategies, a political consulting firm. He has served as Suffolk County executive and as a state assemblyman, and is host of “The Steve Levy Radio Show.” Comments? Steve@commonsensestrategies.com.

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Small Business Week celebrates entrepreneurs

every May for more than 60 years, the United States has taken the time to celebrate a crucial force in its economy: the small-business owner. This year during National Small Business Week, May 4 to 10, we will honor the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels innovation, drives local economies, and creates opportunity in communities across the country.

It’s important to recognize that this is more than just a ceremonial observance. Small Business Week is a chance to spotlight the backbone of America’s economic engine and the importance of supporting the 33 million small businesses nationwide.

Two of their biggest backers are the federal Small Business Administration and SCORE, a nonprofit organization that has mentored more than 11 million entrepreneurs since 1964. The SBA is a government agency that promotes and safeguards the interests of small businesses. Its mission is to support them and help them thrive, because they are such a vital component of the nation’s economy. The SBA provides access to federal contracts, counseling and financing, among other resources, to help these business grow.

Together, the SBA and SCORE will offer invaluable resources to both aspiring and established business owners at the annual National Small Business Week Virtual Summit, a free online event May 6 and 7. It will offer more than educational workshops; it will be a showcase of what’s possible when the public and private sectors collaborate.

That effort will include mentorships,

letters

Remembering ‘Steady Eddie’

To the Editor:

practical advice and access to federal programs and tools that can help smallbusiness owners navigate the myriad challenges they face, from financing to digital marketing.

The Summit won’t just be about learning — it will also be about community. Consider the sheer number of small businesses that dot the landscape of the cities, towns and villages that Herald newspapers cover. How many do you patronize on a regular basis, from your favorite pizza place to your favorite stationery store or barbershop? Many are anchors of their neighborhoods or downtown commercial areas, making towns into home towns.

Beyond the summit, the SBA is organizing in-person events across the country, including a national awards celebration in Washington, D.C., on May 5. There will be local events as well, giving municipalities the chance to recognize their own standout entrepreneurs.

But why should National Small Business Week matter to everyone — not just business owners? Because small businesses do more than sell products and services. They create jobs. Half of all U.S. workers are employed by small and medium-sized businesses, which contribute 43 percent of the country’s GDP. Small businesses mentor future leaders. They drive innovation. They support schools, sponsor local Little League teams, and strengthen the fabric of our communities.

Almost every dollar spent at a small business goes back into the local economy. And during challenging times, as we saw during the coronavirus pandemic,

Re Peter King’s column, “Ed Kranepool was the real Mr. Met,” last week: As a graduate of James Monroe High School in the Bronx (I entered as Kranepool left), I was following even his high school career, because my dad umpired high school games as Ed chased Hank Greenberg’s (no relation) career high school home run record.

As an aside, the title of Jimmy Breslin’s book, “Can’t Anybody Here Play This Game?” was a quote by Casey Stengel as he appraised his new team.

JOEL GREENBERG Merrick

Time for a bigger, better bottle bill

To the Editor:

Over 40 years ago, I walked with a group of concerned citizens from Inwood, Manhattan, to the Coca-

these businesses often demonstrate resilience and creativity that not only help their communities endure those times, but inspire new ways to overcome them, bringing residents closer together in the process.

Smart legislation is critical, too. State Sen. Monica Martinez, whose district covers parts of Long Island, recently introduced the Lift Our Communities, Advertise Locally, or LOCAL, Act. This bill would provide truly small businesses — 10 employees or fewer — as well as minority-, female- or veteran-owned businesses of any size with a tax credit of up to $4,000 so they can advertise their products and services.

Supporting small businesses is a yearround responsibility, but next month’s special week will give us a chance to recommit to their success. Whether you attend the virtual summit, shop locally, or simply share the story of a small business that inspired you, there are countless ways to show support.

To learn more about this year’s events, to register for the summit, or to find a celebration near you, visit SBA. gov/NSBW. And be sure to follow along, and join the national conversation, at #SmallBusinessWeek. Throughout the year, the Herald offers small businesses webinars and training, too, and we encourage businesses to sign up for these valuable sessions.

In celebrating this special week, we celebrate the grit, vision and drive that continue to shape our nation by shaping its economy — one idea, one storefront and one hardworking entrepreneur at a time.

tbride and ing disturbed moment. What much and the versity I thought than mine. the cheapest But separate

opinions Reconnecting with old friends

the other week I had the pleasure of flying to Atlanta to celebrate the wedding of two good friends. The ceremony was beautiful, the bride and groom were happy, and nothing disturbed the sanctity of the moment.

What really struck me was how much fun I had seeing a bunch of old friends from college and high school, and how much I’d missed spending time with them.

The groom and I had gone to neighboring colleges, although we’d known each other for years through mutual friends. I spent so much time over my four years with him and the other kids at St. Andrews university that there were some days when I thought I knew their campus better than mine. Certainly I knew where all the cheapest bars in their town were. But after graduation, we all went our separate ways, as happens. While we

kept in touch sporadically, the demands of life and work — not to mention the pandemic and general global craziness — meant that I rarely, if ever, saw or talked to many people who only a few years before I’d hung out with every day. until this recent weekend, when we spent practically every waking moment getting up to our old shenanigans again. It sounds cliché to say, but it truly felt like no time had passed.

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every weekend. And for many young people, this connection is something that we’re all deeply missing.

Most people are aware that there is a loneliness epidemic in America.

fter college, we went our separate ways, but it was silly of me not to reach out before.

The most astonishing part was finding out how many of these friends now lived so close to me, with the majority of them having moved to New York City in the past few years. The last I’d heard from them, they were scattered as far apart as Los Angeles and London; little did I know that most of them now lived less than an hour away on the LIRR. I’ve already made plans to see some of them again soon.

That got me thinking about how silly it was of me not to reach out before. A simple text, “Hey, how’s it going, dude?” and I could have been seeing them

Letters

Cola plant in Tarrytown to call attention to the fact that New York state needed a bottle deposit bill. I was sore for three weeks! We achieved victory, and New York passed the Returnable Container Act, commonly known as the Bottle Bill. This landmark law has proven to be a highly effective program, reducing litter and increasing recycling rates in our state.

Albany now needs to support the Bigger Better Bottle Bill (S5684, A6543). This legislation would raise bottle and can deposits from 5 to 10 cents, which would increase redemption rates, support some of our state’s most marginalized workers and further reduce litter. The nickel deposit was enacted into law in 1983. If it were adjusted for inflation, it would be 15 cents today.

This bill could generate as much as $100 million for the state, and those funds could be used to address limits on redemption options in low-income communities and other litter and solid waste problems. It would also create more consistency by including sports drinks, iced tea, wine and spirits and more. With more beverage types included, there would be more recycling, less confusion and less pollution.

We must stop littering our Earth with one-time-use disposable bottles. This 42-yearold law needs to be updated. Here’s hoping our Legislature and governor will carry this bill through to fruition.

JoSEpH M. VARoN West Hempstead

Joseph Varon is a past president of the New York State Marine Education Association, and a member of the Long Island chapter of

Food

According to a study released in 2024 by the American psychiatric Association, 30 percent of adults experience feelings of loneliness at least once a week, with 10 percent admitting that they feel lonely every day.

This is even more pronounced in young people, with 30 percent of Americans ages 18 to 34 saying they are lonely every day or several times a week.

This crisis, while not as immediately obvious as a drug or disease epidemic, is just as insidious in its negative impact on the health of our country and our communities. A variety of factors are believed to contribute to this problem, from technology to being overworked to our hyper-focused sense of individualism.

While experts argue about the cause, the negative results speak for themselves. Humans are naturally social

& Water Watch, and Beyond Plastics.

Surely we can shelter the homeless and their pets

To the Editor:

There is a desperate need for Nassau County politicians to establish a homeless shelter for people with pets.

There is nothing more emotionally jarring than looking into the eyes of a person who has lost everything and, in order to be admitted to a shelter, must surrender a beloved lifelong companion to an animal rescue — or continue to live on the streets — because Nassau County has no place for the two of them to go.

And it’s equally soul-wrenching to sit with a newly surrendered homeless animal, confused and scared, and console them as they get one last glimpse of the best friend they adored unconditionally.

Last month, the Safe Center of Long Island, in Bethpage, closed. Isn’t there a space like this that can be used as shelter for both the homeless and their pets?

politicians, for decades you have been telling homeless people what they need, instead of asking them. They have told me through their tears, and their animal friends by their despair. Will you act, or continue to look away from the truly voiceless, who in your campaign speeches you profess you will be a champion for.

DANA

FuCHS Long Beach

Dana Fuchs works at an animal rescue facility.

animals, and when we are unable to socialize, for whatever reason — from prisoners in solitary confinement to teenage shut-ins who spend all of their time online — the effects of being separated from others take a serious mental and physical toll on our health.

Studies have compared the impact of loneliness on our bodies to the effects of smoking 15 cigarettes, and concluded that it leads to higher rates of Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases. Loneliness literally kills us.

on the flip side, the desire for companionship can also lead people to seek connection and validation from unhealthy sources, such as political extremist groups, criminal organizations, and even drugs.

That’s why, now more than ever, it’s important to reach out. Shoot a text to your buddy from high school or call your friend from your sports team in college. Sometimes even a short conversation catching up is all you need to remind yourself how many friends you have, and how much they mean to you.

Will Sheeline is an editor covering Glen Head, Locust Valley, Oyster Bay and Sea Cliff. Comments? wsheeline@liherald.com.

Framework by Tim Baker

Hanging out on the Nautical Mile — Freeport

MAY

Nurses Appreciation

Nurses are the heart of healthcare. Our special section honors their compassion, strength, and tireless dedication. Join us in celebrating these everyday heroes who bring care, comfort, and humanity to healing.

MAY 15

Your Health

This Your Health edition highlights mental health—an essential yet often overlooked part of wellness—offering expert advice, local resources, and real stories to support emotional well-being and manage stress, anxiety, and depression.

MAY

Great Homes

Great Homes showcases current listings, local realtors, and real estate businesses in a large, fullcolor broadsheet—75% bigger than tabloids— mailed with Herald papers for targeted, communityfocused advertising success.

MAY

Long Beach Guide

Discover Long Beach—a vibrant seaside city with iconic beaches, thriving businesses, rich history, and diverse neighborhoods—celebrated in this guide for residents, visitors, and anyone who loves this unique community.