Babylonian celebrates her 100th birthday Page 6
ReCORD
This week’s Pet Column Page 4
Amityville School Board okays new logo: The Tide
There was a lot to cheer about after the Amityville School Board scrapped the name Hawks as the athletic logo and adopted the Tide, a name historically significant in the community.
GOP primary set for Tues., June 24 in Suffolk County’s 14th District
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com
A Republican primary for Suffolk County’s 14th Legislative District will be held June 24, with the winner advancing to the general election in November. The seat is currently held by Legislator Kevin McCaffrey, who is term-limited after serving 12 years on the County Legislature. The candidates seeking the GOP nomination are RJ Renna, a trustee in the Village of Lindenhurst, and Shawn Cullinane, a longtime village administrator and attorney. Both reside in Lindenhurst. Early voting will take place June
14–22 in the gymnasium at the Babylon Town Hall Annex, 281 Phelps Lane, North Babylon. More information is available at https://shorturl.at/evkkw.
Renna was appointed to the Lindenhurst Village Board in 2017 and won elections in 2018 and 2020. He is credited with contributing to the village’s revitalization, including negotiating to bring Sand City Brewing Co. to the area, according to Babylon Town Republican Party Chairman Joe Barone.
“RJ is young and has governmental experience,” Barone said. “He’s helped in the revival of the village and brings energy and commitment.” Barone noted that Renna has the backing of the Babylon Town Republican Committee.
Continued on Page 7
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com
The Amityville Board of Education voted 6-1 last week to reinstate “The Tide” as the district’s athletic team name, replacing “Hawks,” a name adopted after the state banned the use of Native American names and imagery for school mascots and logos.
Voting for the change were Trustees Wendy Cannestro, Juan Leon, Carol Seehof, Caroline Fanning and Megan Messman. Board President Lisa Johnson cast the lone dissenting vote.
TThe district used the name “Warriors” for about 30-plus years before it switched to “Hawks” in April fol-lowing what the district said was a search that included community and student input. The new name was dramatically presented to the public in an online video, but immediately garnered strong opposition with some pointing to the fact that “hawks” had a negative female sexual connotation.
name to The Tide was introduced by board member Juan Leon, who was re-cently reelected. Leon said he was motivated by widespread community dissatisfaction with the “Hawks” name and logo.
“I presented a petition with more than 400 signatures from alumni, students, teachers and community members who believed the name ‘Hawks,’ among other things, lacked any community significance,” Leon said.
he resolution includes a clause allowing the district to revert to the name ‘Warriors’ if future state or federal regulations permit it.
AMITYVILLE SCHOOL TRUSTEE JUAN LEON
Prior to adopting “Warriors,” Amityville’s teams were known as “The Tide” or “Crimson Tide,” a historical reference often cited during the recent name debate.
The resolution to change the
The resolution also includes a clause allowing the district to revert to the name “Warriors” if future state or federal regulations permit it.
“Now our athletic teams will have direction and adequate preparation time leading up to the start of the new school year,” said Leon. In other school board news, the board informed Dr. Gina Talbert, Superintendent of Schools, that her contract will not be renewed when it expires in approximately 10 months. The board also approved a resolution to begin restructuring the district’s central administration.
Board President Johnson was not immediately available for comment.
Superintendent Talbert did not respond to a request for comment.
The following incidents have been reported by the Suffolk County Police Department and other law enforcement and emergency services agencies.
BURGLARY
North Amityville: Someone attempted to gain entry to a home on Benburd Street May 29. Police said that at approximately 10:26 p.m., three men rushed through the door of the home confronting the homeowner who screamed. The three ran off.
PETIT LARCENY
North Amityville: Someone stole two packages from in front of an apartment at 20 Greybarn La., May 26.
GRAND LARCENY
Copiague: Approximately $1,000 in WiFi Deadbolts were stolen from Dol -
CRIME WATCH
lar Tree at 705 Montauk Highway May 27. Police said the incident occurred at 10:40 a.m.
ARREST-UNLAWFUL SPEED CONTEST
East Farmingdale: Police arrested and charged Stuart Pratts, 46, of 7915 265 St., Glen Oaks with involvement in an unlawful speed contest and operation of an ATV on public property. That incident occurred on Conklin Street, May 25 at 5:45 p.m.
OTHER ARRESTS
Driving While Intoxicated/Impaired: Brian Pimentel, 35, of 43 Oakdale Ave., Central Islip; Steven Jimenez, 34, of 405 Spur Dr., North Bay Shore; Jimy Lazogarcia, 41, of 10 Stewart St., Bay Shore; Joshua Crooms, 31, of 1787 Carleton Ave.,
North Bay Shore; Enrique Veraperez, 41, of 1639 Heckscher Ave., North Bay Shore; Dylan Cedillos, 22, 120 Brier St., Central Islip; Sasenarine Bissoon, 28, of 11 Karweg Pl., Brooklyn; Jose Avila, 40, of 350 45 St., Copiague; Tylee Knight, 29 of 404 Gracewood Ct., Islip.
Grand Larceny: Isabel Woodard, 25, of 622 Broadway, Amityville.
Petit Larceny: Ashantee Armstrong, 32, of 3547 Great Neck Road,
North Amityville; Cary Stogel, 56, of 45 Elder Dr., Commack; Nehemiah Henderson, 39, of230 Ralph Ave., Babylon; Marcus Lewis, 63, of 447 Albany Ave., Amityville.
Criminal Possession of a Firearm: William Lenor Ramirez, 24 of 11 Adams St. Port Washington; Petit Larceny: Windel Superville, 44;, of 9 Rodney Pl., Copiague.
Assault: Nelson Dejesusarce, 46 of 27 Croydon Rd., Amityville.
People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.
VIP Chalet experience at Jones Beach Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular
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tage point of the fireworks. Ticket purchase includes access to upgraded restrooms, VIP parking, a catered barbecue dinner, snacks, and complimentary access to a beer and wine bar.
If you are interested in treating your friends and family to a special evening at the Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular at Jones Beach State Park, you can purchase tickets for the Jones Beach Chalet by completing the following application at forms.office.com/g/maEiiPRkJ4.
For additional information about the Jones Beach Chalet, please email jones-
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The 2025 Jovia Financial Credit Union Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular at Jones Beach State Park will be held on July 4 and will feature live performances, informational booths, and their fireworks spectacular!
For more information about the 2025 Jovia Financial Credit Union Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular at Jones Beach State Park, please visit jovia.org/ fireworks
Babylon Family Movie Night on the beach
For more information, please call (631) 957-4292.
Overlook Beach is located at Ocean Parkway, Babylon.
The Town of Babylon will be presenting a family movie night at Overlook Beach on August 12. The book will be Disney and Pixar’s “Finding Dory.” Entry is free and the movie will begin after sunset. Please bring blankets and chairs. The beach club will also be open for snacks and food to enjoy during the movie.
Amityville 1975 Class Reunion, Oct. 12
The Amityville “Warriors” Class of 1975 is hosting its 50th high school reunion on Sun., Oct. 12 at the Unqua Yacht Club. For more
information email davesberger@hotmail. com or go to the Facebook page: Amityville High School Class 75-50 Year Reunion.
GARY SLAVIN CIC,
Copiague FD hosts alarmingly good Memorial parade
By CAROLYN JAMES
cjames@liherald.com
The Copiague Fire Department presented its annual Memorial Day remembrance ceremony, parade and community gathering, with a little help from their friends—the members of the Copiague Chamber of Commerce. The event was held on Mon., May 26 and drew one of the largest crowds in recent years.
“We gave out more than 1,000 hot dogs,” said Commissioner Dominick Nuzzi. “It was a great event, and it gets
bigger every year.”
Donna Farina, president of the Chamber, thanked the fire department and its volunteers for their efforts in bringing the event to the community this year.
“They got a lot of organizations from Copiague together,” she said. “This is becoming a very popular event.
Taps were played at the firehouse ,and the Copiague High School Madgrical Choir performed.
For more information on the Copiague Chamber of Commerce and its events go to copiaguechamber.org.
Steve Leung/Herald
Copiague Youth League marches proudly in parade
Copiague School musicians perform
Copiague firefighters conduct ceremonies at memorial square
Youngster joins the marchers in the parade
Curious case of Robin the Setter
I don’t let sleeping dogs lie.
Back in 2006, I began a decade-long search throughout Babylon Village for the gravesite of Sensation, the Pointer who still symbolizes the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. That quest led to more than 50 “Pets” columns and, ultimately, a dream job in the Westminster press room for 10 years.
Pets, Pets, Pets...
JOANNE ANDERSON
But the research also uncovered a surprising piece of canine history—one literally carved in stone. In front of the Long Island State Parks Commission headquarters at Belmont Lake stands a solitary gravestone inscribed: “In Memory of My Faithful Dog Robin –Mar. 25, 1879.”
I believe Robin was the same dog August Belmont Jr. entered three times in the inaugural Westminster Kennel Club (WKC) Dog Show in 1877—twice as a Gordon Setter and once as an English Setter. That dual identity is more than curious; it hints at how loosely defined dog show rules were back then.
The original Belmont family mansion once featured a fenced pet cemetery on its right side. When the mansion was razed in 1935 to make way for the state parks headquarters, the other headstones disappeared. In 2008, state park workers looked for more toumbstones. Robin’s stone had been moved under a tree, away from its original location.
While most people associate the Belmont name with horse racing, few realize the family’s impact on the dog world. The wooded stream trail from Southards Pond to Belmont Lake forms Babylon’s own canine “Tigris and Euphrates.” More than a century ago, the origins of organized dog sports on Long Island—and nationally—can be traced to the Belmonts and the Westminster Kennel Club. August Jr.’s two brothers
were WKC members, he was not.
During my search for Sensation, I collected historical documents, including a facsimile of the first WKC show catalog, thanks to Westminster historian Mr. Stifel. One 1877 spectator even jotted results in the margins.
Robin appears twice in that catalog. First, under “Native or Imported Gordon Setter Dogs,” and again under “Special Prize #1 for Best Setter,” both times with the same listing:
A. Belmont Jr., 19 Nassau St., N.Y. ROBIN, bl. and tan, 8 years, by Royal, out of Racket, $500
That Robin is likely the same dog buried under the tombstone, who died two years later at age 10. The 1877 catalog lists 1,201 dogs with prices ranging from $50 to $10,000—or marked “not for sale.”
Sensation was also there, but only for exhibition. He was the celebrity draw at the four-day show held at the Hippodrome, the original Madison Square Garden.
Belmont Jr. also entered two Smooth Fox Terriers—his signature breed—plus Duke, Robin’s son, and Maud, Duke’s 15-year-old mother. It was a Gordon Setter family affair. Robin placed second, even beating his son.
But another dog listed under “Imported English Setter Dog” also bore the name Robin. Same address. Same age. Same pedigree. Same $500 valuation. The only difference: this Robin was described as “black, tan and white frill.”
Today, Gordon Setters are expected to be black and tan. A white frill might occur, but it’s not desirable. English Setters, on the other hand, are predominantly white with flecked coloring. So, was Robin entered under two breeds? I believe so. I suspect Belmont Jr.—a sav-
vy young businessman, heir to a racing empire and future World War I major— was hedging his bets.
Was it cheating? Not exactly. In 1877, dog show rules were inconsistent. Stud books lacked registration numbers, and breed standards, especially for Setters, were still fuzzy.
In time, Belmont Jr. helped change that. He became a leading force in standardizing dog show rules. The American Kennel Club was established in 1884, bolstered by the WKC. Belmont became AKC president in 1888 and held the post for 26 years.
Robin died five years before AKC rules existed, nine years before AKC registration numbers appeared in catalogs, and 13 years before the Gordon Setter was officially recognized in the U.S.
As for Belmont’s gamble, the prize went to Paris, an English Setter from Ontario. He was named “Best Setter” and took home a silver Tiffany cup worth $125. Just imagine what that cup would be worth today.
The Amityville “Warriors” Class of 1975 is hosting its 50th high school reunion on Sun., Oct. 12 at the Unqua Yacht Club. For more information email davesberger@hotmail. com or go to the Facebook page: Amityville High School Class 75-50 Year Reunion.
Robin’s tombstone on lawn of LI state park headquarters at Belmont Lake with 1877 WKC catalog that identifies Robin.
English Setter (white with speckling)
Gordon Setter (black and tan)
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As she turns 100, Babylon icon says the key is to ‘keep moving’
By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com
Geraldine “Jerry” Leo, who turned 100 in April, believes the secret to a long life is simple: “Keep moving.”
And she practises what she preaches. At 100, Leo is not just a local icon in Babylon— she’s also a model of vitality. She exercises five days a week, including four visits to the Great South Bay YMCA, where she’s well-known for her impressive three-minute plank, for which she made national headlines.
“Don’t sit too long, I tell everyone,” Leo said. “Keep moving. Don’t sit. Be positive. And if you don’t like something the first time, try it again.”
A surprise party was held on her birthday, April 11, at Lily Flanagan’s in Babylon Village. Town of Babylon Supervisor Rich Schaffer and Village of Babylon Mayor Mary Adams attended the celebration, presenting her with a proclamation to honor the milestone.
“The party was great,” said her daughter, Connie Leo Ryan. “She thought it was just going to be a family dinner. It was very nice — a lot of family traveled to be there.”
Leo said she was “flabbergasted” by the turnout and honored by the presence of the mayor and supervisor.
“It was just amazing,” she said. “People have gone out of their way to celebrate this birthday of mine.”
A lifelong resident of Babylon Village, she was married to Dominick Leo, a U.S., Navy WWII veteran for 61 years. He died in 2012.
Her daughter said having local offi-
cials at the party made the event even more special because of her mother’s deep roots in the community.
“The Village of Babylon couldn’t have a bigger fan than her,” Ryan said.
“It was a wonderful celebration for an incredible woman and village resident, and I was honored to have been invited,” Adams said. “Jerry’s smile lit up the entire room, and the gratefulness she had for everyone being there was heartwarming. Her strong
spirit, her laughter, her activity, and her love for her neighbors and community are great examples of what life is truly about. That combination — mixed with family and friends — is the perfect recipe for a long and healthy life.”
“She is in pretty phenomenal shape — not just physically, but mentally as well,” said her daughter. “She is bound and determined to stay current and alive in the world.”
“She is a marvel,” added her son-inlaw, John Ryan.
Leo credits the Great South Bay YMCA with playing a key role in her routine and overall happiness.
“The YMCA is fantastic,” she said. “It gives me a great start to my day, and I’ve been going there for over 35 years. It’s like another family.”
Northeast Elementary celebrates third year of Parent Empowerment Program
Northeast Elementary School recently celebrated the third anniversary of its Parent Empowerment Program.
Led by Principal Pauline Collins, Ed.D., the program aims to provide parents with the tools and resources they need to support their children and better navigate the school system. Each Saturday morning, parents and students gather at the school to share breakfast and take part in themed programming. The children’s activities mirror the day’s central theme.
School social worker Jessenia Bermudez played a key role in establishing partnerships with local organizations, including Hope for Youth, the Crime Victims Center, and Cornell Cooperative Extension.
Hope for Youth offers a three-part positive parenting course focused on building confident, happy, and resilient children. The Crime Victims Center provides education on identifying and preventing child sexual abuse, while Cornell Cooperative Extension offers guidance on nutrition and healthy eating.
The district thanked all educators who continue to make the Parent Empowerment Program a valuable resource for families in Amityville.
Parent Empowerment Program to the community.
Movin’ on—and movin’ on up!
The following local resident were recently recognized by their schools for academic achievements or for military advancement:
•Anahis Rodriguez recently participated in Hofstra University’s Annual Pride and Plant event, which connects students with local homeowners who need help with yard work
and planting.
•Jones Ethan of Amityville, assigned to the 106th Rescue Wing of the New York Air National Guard, was recently promoted to the rank of airman basic.
•Shelmel Dixon of Amityville, a member of the New York Army National Guard and assigned to the Company A, NY Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Battalion, was recently promoted to the rank of private.
If you know someone who should be mentioned for achievement, send their name and information to us at cjames@liherald.com.
Geraldine ”Jerry” Leo is shown center accepting a proclamation from Babylon Town Supervisor Richard Schaffer. Also shown with her are members of her family, Babylon Town Councilman Terence McSweeney, and Babylon Village Mayor Mary Adams.
Amityville school district educators, staff and students celebraste three years of bring the
Renna and Cullinane square off in county primary in 14th LD
“They all know he’s the man for the job.” “I am very grateful for the party’s endorsement, and I look forward to serving the people in the 14th Legislative District,” Renna said.
The 14th District covers Copiague, Babylon Village, Gilgo, Lindenhurst Village, Oak Beach and parts of North Babylon, North Lindenhurst, and West Babylon.
Amityville library hosting citizenship session
Are you confused about the immigration process and eligible for legal status in the United States? Amityville Public Library will be hosting an information session on June 14 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. This program will help answer your questions. However, please note that no legal advice will be provided.To
register, please email adult@amityvillepubliclibrary.org with the program name as the subject and your full name in the body of the email.
For more information, please call (631) 264-0567.
Amityville Public Library is located at 19 John St., Amityville.
Continued from cover and legal knowledge, and fiscal common sense to the County Legislature,” Cullinane said. His priorities include public safety, emergency preparedness, groundwater protection, roadway safety and fiscal responsibility. He said he aims to help keep Suffolk County a “safe, desirable and affordable” place to live.
Cullinane, who has lived in Lindenhurst for decades, serves as prosecutor for the Village of Brightwaters Justice Court and general counsel to the Wyandanch Public Library. He previously served as Lindenhurst Village clerk/ treasurer for 28 years under four mayors — the longest tenure in village history. He has also served as a library trustee, assistant to the Babylon Town Board and is currently president of the Babylon Citizens Council on the Arts. “I look forward to the opportunity to bring my wide range of government and community experience, institutional
Renna has received endorsements from the Suffolk County Republican and Conservative parties, McCaffrey, state Sen. Alexis Weik, County Executive Ed Romaine, Assemblyman Michael Durso and Lindenhurst Mayor Michael Lavorata.
“We’re telling people that RJ is the Republican Party’s choice,” Barone said.
Candidates Shawn Cullinane, left, and RJ Renna right
WEEKLY CALENDAR
THURSDAY, JUNE 12
•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, please call President Michele Camilleri at (631) 598-1700 or email amityvillerotaryclub@gmail.com.
your dahlias. For more information call (631) 972-8829 (leave mes
SUNDAY, JUNE 15
•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631) 789-2569.
TUESDAY, JUNE 17
•Town of Babylon Accessory Apartment Review Board Meeting: 6 p.m. Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. For more information, call (631) 957-7468.
• 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, JUNE 13
•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, JUNE 14
•Amityville Village Farmers Market: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. For more information, call (631) 264-6000.
•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
•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 12step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631) 332-0552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808. All calls are confidential.
•Church Attic Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. For information, call (631) 264-0152 or email amitychurch1792@gmail.com.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18
•Amityville Public Library Board of Trustees Meeting: 6 p.m., 19 John St., Amityville. For more information, call (631) 264-0567.
•Amityville School District Board of Education Regular Meeting: 7:30 p.m., Park Avenue Memorial Elementary School, 140 Park Ave., Amityville. For more information, please call (631) 5656000.
•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) 3320552 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.
Long Island Cares’ Paule Pachter retires
By MOHAMMAD RAFIQ mrafiq@liherald.com
After more than 17 years leading Long Island Cares, President and CEO Paule Pachter has announced his retirement. He will assume the title of president emeritus in an advisory capacity and remain in his current role until a successor is named.
“My time at Long Island Cares has been the most rewarding and productive period of my 46-year history of working in the nonprofit human services sector on Long Island,” Pachter, 71, said in a news release. “Along with our dedicated staff, we have transformed the role of a traditional food bank and developed innovative and effective programs to support those in need.
Long Island Cares is a regional food bank and nonprofit organization headquartered in Hauppauge.
Founded to combat food insecurity across Long Island, it provides emergency food assistance, distributes nutritious groceries, and offers support services to individuals and families in need. The organization operates a network of pantries and distribution centers, including locations in Freeport, Lindenhurst, and Bethpage.
As food insecurity continues to affect an estimated 121,000 Long Islanders, including 65,000 children, Long Island Cares has sought to expand its outreach, opening another pantry in Valley Stream last August.
“I have had the privilege of working with a dedicated team and supportive board of directors that few others have experienced. I’m extremely proud to have had the opportunity to impact the way we respond to food insecurity on a local, state, and national level through my involvement in the Feeding America network,” Pachter said in the release.
“I look forward to welcoming the next president and
After serving as president and CEO of Long Island Cares for 17 years, Paule Pachter is retiring from his role and will officially step down when his successor is named.
CEO of this historic organization in my new role as President Emeritus,” he added. “We have so much more to do to respond to hunger and to what Harry Chapin said ‘was the shame of America.’”
During Pachter’s tenure, Long Island Cares expanded its services significantly, launching mobile food distribution efforts, veterans’ initiatives, and Baxter’s Pet Pantry, among other community-focused programs.
“When I came to Long Island Cares (the cash on hand was about $8.5 million),” Pachter told the Herald. “As I’m leaving, our budget is $41 million.”
Pachter, who grew up in Brooklyn, led the organization through the creation of multiple satellite pantries, beginning with its Freeport location in 2009. He cited support from Mayor Robert Kennedy and former legislator Dave Denenberg in helping to make the pantry a reality.
Under Pachter, Long Island Cares launched mobile outreach for seniors, veterans and the homeless; and introduced a children’s breakfast food truck. He also expanded advocacy work and government relations.
Pachter was a social worker and served as a Nassau County Department of Mental Health deputy commissioner. He was in an administrative role for United Cerebral Palsy and then a deputy executive director at Central Nassau Guidance and Counseling Services. “It has always been a passion for me to help people in need,” he said.
“Paule has been an immeasurable asset to Long Island Cares,” David Herold, Long Island Cares board president said in the release. “Paule’s drive and ingenuity led to the creation of many programs and services, including mobile food pantries, a food pantry network, a variety of veterans’ programs, and Baxter’s Pet Pantry. “Not only does Paule’s legacy greatly benefit Long Islanders every day, but his broad vision has been duplicated by food banks nationally to benefit our country’s food insecure,” Herold added.
He said that other than founders Harry and Sandy Chapin, no one person has had a greater impact at Long Island Cares than Paule Pachter. “It has been an honor and privilege to work with him,” he said. “I and the entire board look forward to continuing to work with Paule through and after this transition.”
Photo by Richard Termine
Courtesy Long Island Cares
By Herald Staff
Masha Gutama 3, Amityville
I like to eat chocolate and chips with my dad.
What is your favorite activity to do with your dad?
I
Adrianna Canesa 10, Massapequa
I like practicing softball with my dad.
I like to collect cards with my dad.
I
Christie Leigh Babirad/Herald
Jack Mullahy 7, Babylon Elementary School
Playing sports, especially having baseball catches in the backyard.
Courtesy Mullahy Family
Christie Leigh Babirad/Herald
Adrianna Kenney 4, Babylon
like to play with him and play on the playground.
Christie Leigh Babirad/Herald
Vincent Canesa 7, Massapequa
Christie Leigh Babirad/Herald
Alexis Roberts 17, Copiague
like joking around with my dad, taking car rides with him and working on the car together.
Christie Leigh Babirad/Herald
Celebrating Long Island’s local businesses
By MADISON GUSLER
Over 750 members of Long Island’s business community joined the Herald for the fourth annual Herald Long Island Choice Award’s ceremony. People packed the ballroom at Crest Hollow County Club to hear about the best Long Island has to offer.
The Long Island Choice Awards presented by PSEG Long Island on May 13 is a community choice award organized by RichnerLIVE Events that involves local communities in electing the best businesses in a range of categories. Companies and organizations across the Island are elected in 250 categories before undergoing three rounds of voting to whittle away the top three competitors. The winners are announced at the annual gala and are officially recognized as the best Long Island has to offer.
This year’s event was the biggest RichnerLIVE Events has ever held. We congratulate all the winners and runner-ups on their amazing accomplishments!
“It is once again a privilege for our companies to host this great event,” Stuart Richner, publisher of the Long Island Herald and CEO of Richner Communications, said. “Remember tonight is not just about celebration, it’s about creating unforgettable moments and sharing in the joy of success.”
“The people in this room are the economic engines of our communities,” he said. “As a second generation business owner myself, I know how challenging leading a business can be. But leading a
business can also be incredibly rewarding, and the rewards certainly outweigh the challenges.”
“The Long Island Choice Awards celebrates Long Island businesses for their resilience, strength, innovation, excellence and an unwavering dedication to their communities,” David Lyons, interim president and COO of PSEG Long Island, said. “Without your hard work, we would not have the thriving downtown districts in so many of the local Long Island neighborhoods that we call home.”
Lyons noted PSEG’s business customer advocate program and the team that assists businesses in navigating their programs and services.
“They work tirelessly to support small businesses that fuel our local economy, offering personalized guidance and solutions,” he said. The team offers multiple services, including free energy assessments that help businesses save on costs.
“We’ve been around for 55 years, since the 1970s,” Matthew Kahn, president of Friends of Bridge, Inc., said.
“We’re a local not-for-profit which really helps our community. We’re very well respected by the community and we’re very proud to have won this award tonight.” The Valley Streambased outpatient alcohol and drug treatment agency won the award for best addiction rehabilitation center.
“I feel humbled to be able to even do what I do, to help people heel,” Kimberly Zedalis with Integrative Health and Wellness, Inc. in Farmingdale, said. Zedalis accepted the award for best functional medicine. “This has just
been an incredible journey that I’ve been on in my life and I’m elated to win.”
Several organizations and businesses won multiple awards. Molloy University took home three, including best adult education/continuing education programs, best university and best university president.
“Like anytime our university gets the accolades it deserves, I’m proud of our accomplishments,” James Lentini, university president, said.
To view more pictures please visit RichnerLive.com/lichoice. To see a complete list of the 2025 Long Island Choice winners visit LiHerald.com/ long-island-choice-awards.
Photo by Tim Baker
Keynote Speaker, Interim President and COO from PSEG Long Island, David C. Lyons
Photo by Tim Baker
Long Island businesses await the announcement of their category winners
Photo by Holden Leeds
The Stroke & Brain Aneurysm Center of Long Island
Photo by Tim Baker
Emcee’s Jon Daniels from K-Joy 98.3 and Reporter Antoinette Biordi from News 12
Photo by Holden Leeds
Dr. Ryan Sugarman from Memorial Sloan Kettering
Photo by Tim Baker
Calmer U Holistic Health Care Center & Spa in East Rockaway
Photo by Tim Baker
Teemer Moving Storage in Long Beach
Photo by Tim Baker
Miss Long Island
Photo by Tim Baker
The Rizzuto Law Firm in Uniondale
Photo by Holden Leeds
A&C Pest Management in East Meadow
Photo by Holden Leeds
South Shore Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Freeport
Photo by Holden Leeds
Villacorta Law Group P.C.
Photo by Holden Leeds
TLC Companions Home Care in Bethpage
Photo by Holden Leeds
The Cabana in Long Beach
Photo by Holden Leeds
Ringelheim Wealth Management Group UBS in Garden City
Photo by Holden Leeds Winters Bros. Waste Systems
Photo by Holden Leeds
Davidov Law Group in New Hyde Park
Photo by Holden Leeds Azerbaijan Grill in East Meadow
Photo by Holden Leeds Hampton Inn & Suites by Rockville Centre
Photo by Holden Leeds Raagini in Baldwin
Photo by Holden Leeds Bagel Boss
Photo by Holden Leeds
President Dr. James Lentini from Molloy University in Rockville Center
Photo by Holden Leeds
The Barnyard in Farmingdale
Photo by Christine Rivera
Integrative Health and Wellness, Inc in Farmingdale
Photo by Holden Leeds Rockville Centre Auto Repair
Photo by Holden Leeds Epic Escape Rooms LI West Hempstead
Your Neighborhood CALENDAR
JUNE
Babylon Soldier Ride
Registration is now open annual Soldier Ride in Babylon on July 18. Take part in this unique 25-mile cycling event as you ride alongside the brave men and women who served our country and support their journey to recovery.
• Contact: soldierride.org/Babylon
BACCA TV
Join the launch of BACCA TV. The Babylon Citizens Council on the Arts, BACCA, is assembling a team of visionary content creators and video producers for their new digital platform. It’s free to join. Tackle fresh creative challenges, premiere your work on their online channel and be honored at the inaugural BACCA TV Video Awards. Put “BACCA TV” as the subject line in your email.
• Contact: Contact: info@babylonarts.org
JUNE
13
Broadway on a Budget Theater enthusiast Brian Stoll discusses all things Broadway, at Copiague Memorial Public Library. He highlights the history and importance of the Broadway Playbill as well as some of the reasons why audience members choose to collect these memorable theatre keepsakes. Stoll will also share a variety of money-saving tips on how to see Broadway shows for under $60 a ticket. Registration required.
• Where: 50 Deauville Blvd., Copiague
• Time: 6:30-8 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 691-1111 or copiague.librarycalendar.com/ event/broadway-budget-52147
Westbury House Tour
For many years visitors to Westbury House at Old Westbury Gardens asked what was beyond the first floor corridor. Now go beyond the door and discover “secrets of the service wing,” during a 60-minute guided tour. Be introduced to the intensive labor required to create the lifestyle experienced by the Phipps family and their guests; tour the many rooms that were “behind the scenes” to create the formal dining experiences of early 20th century. Go along the corridors to the butler’s pantry and silver cleaning room then descend the 17 steps to the kitchen, scullery, and wine storage rooms located on the ground floor. Reservations required.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: Noon-1 p.m. and 3-4 p.m.; also June 15-16, June 18-19
Larrier Collier and Marilyn Hamilton Jackson visit Old Westbury Gardens to discuss Juneteenth, Underground Railroad quilts and the enduring cultural tradition of Black quilting. Most people think the majority of quilts in Black communities are folksy or improvisational, and that’s just not true; they’re actually very diverse. The lecture at the Barn at Orchard Hill highlights several of their Juneteenth quilts, and a version of the Underground Railroad quilts. Free with admission, but pre-registration required.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 6-7 p.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
JUNE
12 Beach Permit Sales
JUNE 21
The Fab Faux
The Beatles find their way back to the stage — in the form of the Fab Faux. The acclaimed band brings out the best Beatles moments, appearing on the Paramount stage. With a commitment to the accurate reproduction of Beatles’ repertoire, The Fab Faux treat the seminal music with unwavering respect, known for their painstaking recreations of the songs (with emphasis on the later works never performed live by the Beatles). The musical virtuosity of The Fab Faux — in actuality five New York City-based musicians —upends the concept of a Beatles tribute band. Far beyond being extended cover sets, their shows are an inspired rediscovery of The Beatles’ musical magic. In this concert, you’ll hear “A Hard Day’s Night” and “Abbey Road” in their entireties. The Fab Faux tackles the group’s most demanding material onstage in a way that has to be experienced to be believed. In addition to their note-for-note accuracy, the band is famous for blurring the lines slightly and injecting their own musical personalities into the performances. Imagine hearing complex material like “Strawberry Fields Forever” or “I Am the Walrus” performed in complete part-perfect renditions; or such harmony-driven songs as “Because,” “Nowhere Man” and “Paperback Writer,” reproduced with extra vocalists to achieve a double-tracked effect. That’s The Fab Faux experience.
$125, $110, $89.50, $79.50, $69.50, $49.50.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
JUNE
14
Town of Babylon Beach Permit Sales
The Town of Babylon Parks Department offers drive-thru beach permit sales at Geiger Park. $45 for seniors 60 and over, $20 for active military, veterans and volunteer Fire and EMS.
• Where: 50 W. 23rd St., Deer Park
• Time: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 893-2100 or townofbabylonny.gov/558/2025Beach-Permits
Retirement Village People in concert
Enjoy hilarious original song parodies of your favorite songs from the ‘60s and ‘70s at Copiague Memorial Public Library. Featuring Stevie GB, Joe Gelish, Anita Starlite and Les Degen, this is one concert you won’t want to miss. Registration is required.
• Where: 50 Deauville Blvd., Copiague
• Time: 3-4:30 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 691-1111 or copiague.librarycalendar. com/event/retirement-villagepeople-concert-53440.
JUNE
17
Town of Babylon Beach Permit Sales
Town of Babylon Parks Department offers drive-thru beach permit sales at Tanner Park. $45 for seniors 60 and over, $20 for active military, veterans and volunteer Fire and EMS.
• Where: 400 Baylawn Ave., Copiague
• Time: 3-6 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 893-2100 or townofbabylonny.gov/558/2025Beach-Permits
Movie matinee
JUNE
18
Copiague Memorial Public Library will be showing the 2025 spy thriller “Back in Action,” starring Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz. Fifteen years after vanishing from the CIA to start a family, elite spies Matt and Emily jump back into the world of espionage when their cover is blown. Feel free to bring a beverage and a snack. Registration is required.
• Where: 50 Deauville Blvd., Copiague
• Time: 11:30 a.m-2 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 691-1111 or copiague.librarycalendar.com/ event/wednesday-matineemovies-53248
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
Storybook Stroll
Bring the kids to Old Westbury Gardens for a special storybook adventure in celebration of Juneteenth. Stroll the gardens and share the story of Juneteenth with Kim Taylor’s “A Flag for Juneteenth.” Also take part in a quilting-inspired craft based on the story. For ages 3-5. Storybook Strolls start at the Beech Tree (next to Westbury House), and end at the Thatched Cottage.
• Where: 71 Old Westbury Road, Old Westbury
• Time: 4:30-5:30 p.m.
• Contact: oldwestburygardens. org or call (516) 333-0048
Farm to Table: Broccoli workshop
Join Snap-Ed nutrition educator Anthony Garcia at Copiague Memorial Public Library. Obtain tips, tricks and recipes to make the most of your fresh produce. Registration is required.
• Where: 50 Deauville Blvd., Copiague
• Time: 6-7 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 691-1111 or copiague.librarycalendar.com/ event/food-table-broccoli-53241
Threads of Freedom: Juneteenth and the legacy of Black quilting Award-winning quilters Diane
19
Town of Babylon Parks Department offers drive-thru beach permit sales at Venetian Shores Park. $45 for seniors 60 and over, $20 for active military, veterans and volunteer Fire and EMS.
• Where: Venetian Shores Park, 850 Venetian Blvd., Lindenhurst
• Time: 3-6 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 893-2100, townofbabylonny.gov/558/2025Beach-Permits
JUNE
28
Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame honors The Hassles Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame honors The Hassles LIMEHOF inducts Long Island’s own 1960s era seminal rock-soul group, The Hassles, who are best known as Billy Joel’s first major record label band. LIMEHOF inductee Liberty DeVitto (of Billy Joel’s band) is expected to officially induct the group. With performances from LIMEHOF inductees, including the hit-making duo The Alessi Brothers, and two-time inductee drummer Mike Ricciardella of Barnaby Bye and The Illusion. $50.
• Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Contact: limusichalloffame.org
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.
Five PCLI awards won
Five different newspapers under the Herald Community Media banner took home five awards at the annual Press Club of Long Island at the Fox Hollow Country Club.
The five-part series on the hidden dangers of noise and light captured first place in the Narrative Environment category. The writers were former Herald reporter Nicole Formisano, and current staffers editor Will Sheeline and reporter Angelina Zingariello.
The judges said: “Compelling, wellwritten, well-researched series covering noise, air, and light pollution. Not only scientific, their words also touch the human soul.”
Formisano also took home a second place award in the Narrative Obituaries category. Her piece in the Lynbrook/East Rockaway Herald illustrated how a grief support group was dealing with their own sorrow after losing the group’s leader Angela Mendola.
In the same category, editor Roksana Amid received a third place award for the remembrance of Bob Canavan for the Glen Cove Herald.
Amid was also part of the team that included Sheeline and another former Herald staffer Laura Lane that took third place in the Narrative Government & Politics category for “Souzzi’s win: Examining the voting dynamics.”
Senior reporter Mohammad Rafiq also collected a third place award in the Narrative Non-local News/Feature category for his story “Journalist unearths
Romero/Herald
Herald Community Media won five PCLI awards on June 5. Editor Will Sheeline and reporter Angelina Zingariello.
and honors Civil War Ancestor.”
“At Herald Community Media, we strive every day to deliver impactful, community-focused journalism — and earning five Press Club of Long Island awards is a proud testament to our team’s dedication and the trust our readers place in us,” Stuart Richner, president and CEO of Richner Communications Inc., said about the June 5 recognition.
The Press Club of Long Island is open to professional and student members of the Society of Professional Journalists. To learn more, visit PCLI.org.
–Jeffrey Bessen
Copaigue schools honor Kiwanis Club
To celebrate their contributions throughout the school year and recognize their commitment to community service, Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School recently hosted its annual Kiwanis Club Breakfast.
Administrators, Board of Education members, representatives from the Kiwanis Club of Copiague, the high school’s Key Club and the middle school’s Builders Club came together to reflect on a year filled with service and volunteerism.
Following a shared breakfast, guests enjoyed a medley of songs performed by the high school cast of “The Wiz.” Senior members of the Key Club were awarded scholarships presented by Kiwanis Club
President Christine Madrazo. Scholarship recipients included Michael Santos, Stephanie Arce and Adonai Adam Guglielmelli.
Key Club President Krzysztof Krasnowski and Vice President Kaia Mabli highlighted the club’s numerous volunteer efforts, including work with Good Samaritan Hospital, organizing blood drives and hosting the annual car show.
The Middle School Builders Club — a junior version of the Key Club — also presented its accomplishments, which included a visit to the Tanner Park Senior Center, food collections, and clothing and book drives.
Michael
Kiwanis Club President Christine Madrazo, students Michael Santos, Adonai Adam Guglielmelli, Stephanie Arce
Elevate Rehabilitate OT PLLC:
Notice of formation of Elevate Rehabilitate OT PLLC
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 02/29/24
Office location, County of Suffolk.
SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a process served to:
Elevate Rehabilitate OT PLLC, 16 Kent Place, Amityville NY 11701
Purpose: any lawful act.
25-304. 5/7, 14, 21, 28, 6/4, 11
Notice of formation of Sunny Shore Occupational Therapy Services PLLC, a limited liability company. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on (03/26/2025.) Office location: (SUFFOLK ). SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process served against the PLLC to 11 CAPARI COURT, DIX HILLS , NY -11746). Purpose: Any lawful purpose . 25-319. 5/21, 28, 6/4, 11, 18, 25
Notice of Formation of 1564 Noyack LLC
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 5/6/2025.
Office: Suffolk County
SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to 216 East State Street, Suite 100, Trenton, NJ 08608
Purpose: any lawful purpose.
25-318. 5/21, 28, 6/4, 11, 18, 25
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Public Hearing will be conducted by the Board of Trustees of the Village of Amityville on Monday, June 23rd, at 7:00 PM in the third floor Court Room of Village Hall, 21 Ireland Place, Amityville, NY for Introductory Local Law No. 3 of 2025, a local law to amend §49-6 of the Village Code regarding stop work orders.
By Order of the Board of Trustees
Village of Amityville Catherine C. Murdock
Village Clerk/Treasurer
6/5/2025 2 x 25-331. 6/4, 11
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 THURSDAY, June 26, 2025, to consider the following applications:
Application of Nephala Deabreu. Applicant seeks a variance to maintain a 6 foot vinyl fence pursuant to Section 183-139 A. (3) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the North side of Maple Drive approximately 175 feet East of County Line Road in a “Residential B“ District known as 107 Maple Drive a/k/a SCTM#101-1-1-43.
Application of William Schafer. Applicant seeks a variance to maintain a 4 foot solid vinyl fence in the front yard pursuant to Section 183-139 A. (1) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the South side of Moreland Court approximately 127 feet East of Bryan Avenue in a “Residential BB” District known as 33
Moreland Court a/k/a
SCTM#101-8-4-34.
Application of Frederick M. Smith. Applicant seeks a variance to install a 6 foot solid vinyl fence on a premises abutting a waterway pursuant to Section 183-139 A. (1) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the East side of Norman Avenue approximately 450 feet South of Richmond Avenue in a “Residential B” District known as 36 Norman Avenue a/k/a SCTM#101-5-2-26.
Application of William Young. Applicant seeks a variance to install a 6 foot fence in the rear yard pursuant to Section 183-139 A. (3) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the South side of Cedar Street approximately 340 feet East of Park Avenue in a “Residential B” District known as 32 Cedar Street a/k/a SCTM#101-7-4-7.
Application of Ryan Fallot. Applicant seeks to renew a previously approved Special Exception for an OwnerOccupied 2-Family Dwelling pursuant to Section 183-43 C. (6) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the South side of Bourdette Place approximately 100 feet East of Richmond Avenue in a “Residential B” District known as 50 Bourdette Place a/k/a SCTM#101-1318-2.
Application of Monique Newkirk. Applicant seeks to renew a previously approved special exception for an owner-occupied two-family dwelling pursuant to Section 183-43 C. (6) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the South Side of Sterling Place approximately 330 feet East of County Line Road in a “Residential B” District known as 158
Public Notices
Sterling Place a/k/a SCTM #101-3-3-5.
Application of Christine Crosby-Brown. Applicant seeks to maintain a previously approved Special Exception for a ParentChild Dwelling pursuant to Section 183-9 C. (4) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the North side of Chadwick Court approximately 252 feet East of South Bayview Avenue in a “Residential A” District known as 8 Chadwick Court a/k/a SCTM#101-125-4.
Application of Brian Fiore on behalf of Pedro Torres. Applicant seeks a variance to vertically expand a pre-existing nonconforming side yard setback where 14 feet is required and 9.7 feet exists pursuant to Section 183-34 of the Village of Amityville Code, and a variance to maintain an existing roof with a pitch of less than 4 inches rise per foot pursuant to Section 183-31 of the Village of Amityville Code, both associated with a FEMA compliant house lift and renovation. Premises located on North side of Hamilton Street approximately 321 feet West of Richmond Avenue in a “Residential BB” District known as 29 Hamilton Street a/k/a SCTM#101-99-22.
Application of Nicole Blanda on behalf of Robert Perticone. Applicant seeks a use variance to convert an existing Commercial Building to a Multiple Dwelling with 4 Residential units and 1 Commercial unit pursuant to Section 183-82 of the Village of Amityville Code. Applicant also seeks a variance to reduce the required parking spaces from 16 to 11 pursuant to Section 183-129 of the Village
Code. Premises located on the North side of Sterling Place approximately 347 feet West of Broadway (Route 110) in a “B-2 Business” District known as 33 Sterling Place a/k/a SCTM#101-3-1-17.
By Order of the Zoning Board of Appeals, Village of Amityville Cahterine Murdock, Clerk/Treasurer 25-332. 6/11, 18
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE TOWN OF BABYLON ACCESSORY APARTMENT REVIEW BOARD
Pursuant to provisions of Local Law # 9 of the Babylon Town Code, notice is hereby given that the Town of Babylon Accessory Apartment Review Board will hold a public hearing in the Town Board Meeting Room in the East Wing of Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York on Tuesday eve, June 17, 2025. Public hearings begin 6:00pm. NEW APPLICATION:
•Charlyn Quiroz 765 Catskill Ave Copiague, NY 11726
SCTM#0100-200-3057
•Sayed Nozmul Haque & Sayed Mynul Haque 6 Toysome Lane Deer Park, NY 11729
SCTM#0100-91-2-20
•Elizabeth MoralesP 131 Longfellow Ave North Babylon, NY 11703
SCTM#0100-151-3125
•Ryano Anderson 225 E. Hampton Road Lindenhurst, NY 11757
SCTM#0100-190-4-7
•Shawn & Victoria Simon 115 Tell Ave Deer Park, NY 11729
SCTM#0100-91-3115
Printing Instructions: RENEWALS BY AFFIDAVIT AP-
PLICANTS, ARE NOT REQUIRED TO APPEAR. ALL NEW CASES WILL BE HEARD IN THE ORDER IN WHICH THEY ARE ADVERTISED. All interested persons should appear at the above time and place by order of Sandra Thomas, Chairperson, Accessory Apartment Review Board, Town of Babylon, North Lindenhurst, Suffolk County, New York. Amityville Record: Wednesday, June 11th, 2025 25-333. 6/11
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST GEORGE TORRUSIO, KIMBERLY TORRUSIO, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 20, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on July 9, 2025 at 10:30 AM, premises known as 90 30th Street, Copiague, NY 11726. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0100 Section 200.00 Block 03.00 Lot 043.001. Approximate amount of judgment $581,835.16 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #611879/2024. Richard Lavorata, Esq.,
Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Wi lliamsville, NY 14221 24-000685 85699
25-334. 6/11, 18, 25, 7/2 auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on July 15, 2025 at 9:00 AM, premises known as 41 Madison Avenue, Amityville, NY 11701. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0100, Section 164.00, Block 03.00, Lot 049.000. Approximate amount of judgment $639,422.62 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #611124/2015. Richard Lavor ata Jr., Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 15-003253 85861
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR NOMURA ASSET ACCEPTANCE CORPORATION, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-1, Plaintiff AGAINST CHRISTINE SPENCE INDIVIDUALLY AND AS SURVIVING SPOUSE OF WILLIAM SPENCE, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered November 4, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public
25-335. 6/11, 18, 25, 7/2
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, JUNE 26, 2025
BEGINNING AT 6:00 P.M.
6:00 p.m.
1. Application #25085 Andrew G. Prelusky and Jacquelyne Cortel Prelusky, 178 Hawthorne Avenue, West Babylon, NY.
Permission to increase total building area from 15% to 18% (over by 524.12 sq. ft.); diminish distance to front street line from 50’ to 16.8’; diminish distance to north side lot line from 10’ to 7’; increase number of accessory buildings from one (1) to two (2). All in connection with the erection of a proposed detached garage. Property located on the west side of Hawthorne Avenue, 200’ north of Midwood Road, West Babylon, NY.
SCTM#0100-2114-64
Zoning District: Residence A 6:05 p.m.
2. Application #25-084 Benley Saint-Jean and Adjianie Boliere-SaintJean, 18 Manchester Boulevard, Wheatley Heights, NY. Permission to increase total building area from 15% to 25.4% (over by 1,298 sq. ft.). All in connection with a proposed inground
pool. Property located on the south side of Manchester Boulevard, 848.43’ east of Brown Boulevard, Wheatley Heights, NY.
SCTM#0100-16-120
Zoning District: Residence A 6:10 p.m.
3. Application #25086 Paul & Ana Reiners, 296 Silver Street, North Babylon, NY. Permission to increase total building area from 30% to 35.59% (over by 555.48 sq. ft.). All in connection with the erection of an inground pool with a patio and outdoor kitchen. Property located on the south side of Sterling Street, 220’ west of Sexton Road, North Babylon, NY.
SCTM#0100-1411-68 and 69
Zoning District: Residence C
6:15 p.m.
4. Application #25091 Vincent Malizia, 22 Walnut Avenue East, Farmingdale, NY. Permission to diminish north side yard setback from 10’ to 8.1’; diminish total side yards from 25’ to 22.6’; increase total building area from 30% to 41.85% (over by 915 sq. ft.); increase total building area of the rear yard from 45% to 48.8% (over by 150.3 sq. ft.). All in connection with the demolition of an existing awning and the proposed erection of a new rear awning. Property located on the west side of Walnut Avenue East, 844.25’ south of Conklin Street, Farmingdale, NY.
SCTM#0100-46-223
Zoning District: Residence C
6:20 p.m.
5. Application #25088 Salvatore and Genine Gerbino, 103 Kime Avenue, North Babylon, NY. Permission to increase total building area from 20% to 44.64% (over
Public Notices
by 1,860.92 sq. ft.); diminish distance to east lot line from 2’ to 0’ (for accessory structure (patio)). All in connection with legally maintaining paver patios. Property located on the north side of Kime Avenue, 235’ east of Parliament Place, North Babylon, NY.
SCTM#0100-1501-47
Zoning District: Residence B
6:25 p.m.
6. Application #25090 Babul Howlader (applicant)/Jannatun LLC (prop. owner), 168-12 89th Avenue, Jamaica, NY. Permission to diminish west side yard setback from 12’ to 5.8’; diminish total side yards from 30’ to 15.4’; diminish rear yard setback from 40’ to 25.02’ (for egress window well); increase total building area from 20% to 59.9% (over by 2,148.6 sq. ft.); increase total building area of the rear yard from 45% to 100% (over by 1,393 sq. ft.); diminish distance to east lot line from 2’ to 0.2’ (for shed); diminish distance to rear lot line from 2’ to 0’ ( for paver patio); diminish distance to east side lot line from 2’ to 0’ (for paver patio); diminish distance to west side lot line from 2’ to 0’ (for paver patio). All in connection with legally maintaining a garage conversion, a one-story rear addition, a shed, and masonry patio. Property located on the south side of Phelps Lane, 100’ west of Pacific Street, North Babylon, NY.
SCTM#0100-1472-6
Zoning District: Residence B
Subject Premises: 66 Phelps Lane, North Babylon, NY 6:30 p.m.
7. Application #25089a (Lot #1) Frank & Nancy Aprea, 6 Angelica Court, West
Babylon, NY. Permission to diminish width at front street line from 75’ to 60’; diminish lot area from 7,5000 sq. ft. to 6,000 sq. ft.; diminish front yard setback from 30’ to 26’ (for porch); diminish rear yard setback from 30’ to 26’ (for rear cellar entrance); to subdivide a parcel of land from 160’ x 111.75’ x 85’ x 11.75’ x 75’ x 100’ into 60’ x 100’ x 60’ x 100’. All in connection with the proposed subdivision of a parcel into two (2) lots and to erect a new two-story single-family dwelling. Property located on the southwest corner of Farragut Road and America Avenue, West Babylon, NY.
SCTM#0100-1384-12.001
Zoning District: Residence C
Subject Premises: 124 Farragut Road, West Babylon, NY
6:35 p.m.
8. Application #25089b (Lot #2) Frank & Nancy Aprea, 6 Angelica Court, West Babylon, NY. Permission to diminish side yard setback from 10’ to 5.4’; diminish rear yard setback from 30’ to 8.3’; to subdivide a parcel of land from 160’ x 111.75’ x 85’ x 11.75’ x 75’ x 100’ into 100’ x 111.75’ x 85’ x 8.3’ x 15’ x 100’. All in connection with the proposed subdivision of a parcel into two (2) lots and to legally maintain an existing one-story single-family dwelling. Property located on the southwest corner of Farragut Road and America Avenue, West Babylon, NY.
SCTM#0100-1384-12.001
Zoning District:
Residence C
Subject Premises: 124 Farragut Road, West Babylon, NY
6:40 p.m.
9. Application #25087 West Babylon Animal Hospital (tenant)/81 Arnold Ave
LLC (prop. owner), 81 Arnold Avenue, West Babylon, NY. Renewal of a special exception permit to operate an animal hospital with an apartment above. All in connection with an existing animal hospital with an upstairs apartment (previously approved for one (1) year, expired May 2, 2025). Property located on the northwest corner of Arnold Avenue and Great East Neck Road, West Babylon, NY.
SCTM#0100-2161-54
Zoning District: Business E
6:45 p.m.
10. Application #25-092 Caliber Bodyworks of New York LLC d/b/a Caliber Collision Centers (tenant )/Amodei Properties Babylon LLC (prop. owner), 2941 Lake Vista Drive, Lewisville, TX. Requesting a special exception permit to operate a public garage as an auto body repair shop. All in connection with an existing building (previously approved for one (1) year, expired July 21, 2023). Property located on the northwest corner of Wyandanch Avenue and Governor Avenue, West Babylon, NY.
SCTM#0100-82-331.003
Zoning District: Industry Ga
Subject Premises: 387-399 Wyandanch Avenue, West Babylon, NY
6:50 p.m.
11. Application #25-083 Eddy Auto Service Inc. (tenant)/ EDY Auto Repair Inc. (prop. owner), 901 Route 109, West Babylon, NY. Renewal of a special exception permit to operate a public garage; allow outdoor storage of two (2) vehicles awaiting repair in the west side yard. All in connection with an existing one-story building (previously approved for one (1)
year, expired March 1, 2025). Property located on the northwest corner of 9th Street and 2nd Avenue, West Babylon, NY.
SCTM#0100-1291-38
Zoning District: Business E 6:55 p.m. 12. Application #25-093 A&D Entrances, Inc. (tenant)/Gloria Holdings LLC (prop. owner), 105 Wyandanch Avenue, Wyandanch, NY. Permission to allow parking in the front yard; diminish offstreet parking from
ninety-six (96) parking spaces required to seventy-three (73) parking spaces provided. All in connection with a proposed 14,000 sq. ft. two-story addition to an existing building. Property located on the north side of Wyandanch Avenue, 601.83’ west of Belmont Avenue, Wyandanch, NY.
SCTM#0100-80-2119.009
Zoning District: Industry Ga
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 June 2, 2025 25-336. 6/11
PSEG Long Island educates customers on Commercial Incentives
PSEG Long Island celebrated Small Business Week by inviting its small business customers to learn how they can save money through PSEG Long Island’s programs, rebates and grants. The workshop was held on May 8 at ZuZu in Farmingdale.
At the workshop, participants received information on PSEG Long Island’s free energy assessments, economic development grants, bill credit programs, energy efficiency rebates and electric vehicle (EV) and EV charger incentives. Participants were also provided the opportunity to meet the company’s Business First Advocates, who provide PSEG Long Island’s small business customers with concierge service to manage their electricity needs.
Since PSEG Long Island’s economic development initiatives began in 2018, more than $2.8 million has been distributed to local business owners.
To date, 72 businesses have received nearly $2 million in grants under this program. The grants support local commerce and communities. They also support the local economy because these grant recipients created nearly 1,200 new jobs at their new or expanded businesses.
The Main Street Revitalization program is one part of Business First, PSEG Long Island’s ongoing initiative to support small businesses on Long Island and in the Rockaway.
Business First also offers the Vacant Space Revival program, and the Community Thrive Program grant. In addition to these direct to business grants, local business groups such as chambers of commerce, business improvement districts and civic associations that support businesses are eligible for improvement and beautification grants of up to $10,000 each. Under PSEG Long Island’s newly renamed Community Thrive Program, business organizations may qualify for reimbursement for items such as outdoor seating areas and tables, planters and signage – to encourage dining and commerce in downtown areas. This grant opportunity is open through September 30.
Along with Business First, PSEG Long Island’s Energy Efficiency group offers significant rebates for heating and cooling, indoor and outdoor lighting, refrigeration and more to help business owners save money while reducing their carbon footprints.
To learn more about the small business support offered by PSEG Long Island, visit psegliny.com/businessfirst.
EMPLOYMENT
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DRIVERS WANTED
Full Time and Part Time Positions Available!
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MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges fromo $16.50 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT Inside Sales
Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $34,320 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286
OUTSIDE SALES
Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $34,320 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250
PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour. Email resumes or
info to careers@liherald.com
Vice President of Finance : Direct, plan, implement co.’s financial policies, objectives, & activities to ensure economic growth. Analyze financial operations, evaluate performance to meet objectives. Determine areas of potential improvement. Prepare budgets for approval. Confer w/board, co. officials, staff re: financial issues, resolve problems. Develop & implement administrative & financial control processes. Prep. reports re co.’s services. Master’s in Business Administration/Finance/Marketing/Economics. No exp. $262,288/year. 40hrs/wk. Fax resume to (718) 766-8154. BST United Corp., Farmingdale, NY.
Health Care/Opportunities
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What permits do we need before we sell?
Q. I’m trying to figure out what to do about the old construction on my house that I am being told needs permits before I can finish selling. First, I understand that I may have to pay a penalty, and second, I’m wondering why my buyer says they will take over and get permits after we close but their attorney says it’s a lot more complicated because we didn’t get a flood repair permit after Hurricane Sandy. What can you tell me about this? It seems much more complicated than it needs to be.
A. This is a typical case of “you snooze, you lose.” I regularly hear from people who tell me that their friends, contractors, even their attorneys, in some cases, give them “off the record” advice not to make waves, not to do anything. But the issues and requirements don’t just go away, and design professionals are held back from what you really wanted them to do, like an addition or a home makeover, many years later.
Waiting and ignoring the requirements has put you in a much more difficult situation. Since Sandy, the Federal Emergency Management Agency has required that people who received funding, whether directly from the federal agency or through public funds like New York Rising, had to confirm that the funds were put toward the repairs they were meant for. It’s just like providing your car insurance company the receipts and/or an inspection to confirm that the money they gave you for repairs was spent on the car, and not on some fraudulent luxury expense.
In 2013, your municipality required a repair permit, and instead of repeatedly contacting you, they opted to say that they notified you (once or twice), and now it’s your problem that you didn’t respond. The friction this created has lasted long after the memory of the flood turmoil has diminished. People feel ambushed, but arguing or passing on the requirement doesn’t make it go away.
In fact, one of the requirements is a “proof of loss” letter issued to the property owner, preferably the person who owned the property at the time of the flood. Switching to the next owner just complicates the process. Even though repair permits do not have a permit fee, most people made improvements during repairs, and your municipality recently doubled the fees for property improvements. So putting off the repair is now going to cost even more, which your buyer’s attorney might also realize while protecting the buyer.
When it comes to building department fees, one of the biggest municipalities, whose fees were more lenient, just raised them substantially. A couple who applied for permits in 2019, later hampered by the pandemic, saw their projected fees go from $2,000 to $4,600 this past month. Yes, it really did take that long, due to the pandemic and the stages of approval they had to go through, and they weren’t snoozing. Listen to the buyer’s attorney and follow through. Good luck!
Stuff HERALD
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LINCOLN
opinions Firefighter recruitment demands action, awareness
As a second-generation volunteer and professional firefighter, I often reflect on the growing challenges we face in recruiting and retaining firefighters on Long Island.
My connection to the fire service runs deep — not just as a job or duty, but as part of a firefighter family. Growing up, I watched my father respond to alarms at all hours, returning home smelling of smoke and sharing stories of emergencies. The respect he commanded — often without saying a word — left a lasting impression on me. To be a firefighter, someone who puts others first, always felt more meaningful than any high-profile career.
I joined the North Babylon Volunteer Fire Department in 2000. Shortly after being sworn in, I responded to my first working house fire. As I rode the fire engine, nerves and excitement surged. Sitting across from me was my father. His steady voice and more than 50 years
of experience guided me through that pivotal moment — the start of 25 years as a volunteer and more than two decades with the FDNY.
My love for the fire service is why the current decline in volunteer firefighters across Long Island is deeply concerning. Volunteer firefighting is a noble and rewarding calling — one that should inspire future generations.
i’ve seen how involving loved ones in firehouse events creates a sense of belonging.
Nationwide, volunteers make up 65% of all firefighters. Yet that number has dropped significantly — more than 220,000 volunteers lost — even as the U.S. population grew from about 236 million to more than 331 million. The numbers make one thing clear: volunteerism in fire and emergency services has not kept pace with the nation’s growth.
The trend is especially troubling in New York state, where fire departments on Long Island have seen a 30% drop in volunteer numbers. Departments are increasingly relying on aging firefighters and mutual aid to respond to calls, often stretching resources thin. The result: longer response times and fewer personnel available to protect families and property.
Recruiting and retaining volunteers is more challenging than it was decades ago. In 1980, firefighter training required just 36 hours. Today, certification can take up to a year, with hundreds of hours of instruction — often completed while juggling jobs and family life. While recruitment is difficult, retention may be even harder. Busy schedules, expanding responsibilities, less-flexible employers and increased training demands all contribute to a shrinking volunteer force.
What are the benefits of becoming a volunteer firefighter or EMS member?
In Suffolk County, incentives include property tax reductions, state income tax credits, free health screenings, insurance coverage, college tuition reimbursement, service pensions, and free equipment and training. Last year, the state began offering small stipends to volunteers, and in January, Gov. Kathy Hochul proposed legislation that would allow localities to modestly compensate qualified firefighters and cover training costs with state funds.
For many, volunteer firefighting is also a family affair. I’ve seen firsthand
how involving loved ones in firehouse events creates a sense of belonging that strengthens commitment. Even those who don’t serve directly — spouses, children, or relatives — provide crucial support that keeps volunteers engaged and departments strong.
Yet with emergency calls increasing and volunteer numbers declining, it’s becoming harder for departments to fulfill their mission. Nationwide, volunteer firefighters save an estimated $3.8 billion annually in wages and benefits. That number underscores just how vital they are to public safety — and how urgent it is to support their continued service.
Volunteering offers more than financial value. It builds deep bonds, community respect and pride in work that truly matters. There’s nothing quite like the fulfillment that comes from helping others when they need it most.
If you’re interested in becoming a firefighter or EMS volunteer in your community, email FRESvolunteerrecruitment@suffolkcountyny.gov for more information.
Your community needs you.
Along with his fire department service, Terence McSweeney is a Babylon Town councilman. He was born and raised in North Babylon.
Extracurricular activities have an essential role
What do you remember most about high school? For me, it was my social studies classes and the teachers who made me fall in love with history and ultimately pursue a career as a social studies teacher. But for many, the most cherished memories revolve around the extracurricular activities that provided opportunities for students to compete, create or invent in a supportive atmosphere, surrounded by their friends. For some, student clubs are where they felt special and seen. Extracurricular activities can significantly boost students’ self-esteem and sense of belonging, profoundly impacting how they view themselves. That is why we need to reframe how we perceive extracurricular activities: They are not “extra,” they are essential. They are fundamental to a wellrounded education, and for that reason they need to be supported, protected and
funded in schools.
The critical mission of school systems extends beyond merely producing students who meet proficiency on standardized exams. We are charged with producing critical thinkers who embody citizenship, teamwork, global awareness, confidence, leadership and perseverance. An article by the National Association of Secondary Principals highlights how student organizations also help “soft skills,” such as ambition and empathy, and what Brockett (author) calls “lifetime skills,” such as collaboration, teamwork, leadership, problem solving and service (Principal Leadership, 2016). Whether it is arts, music, robotics, sports or gaming, all have the potential to develop these vital qualities in our young people. The New York State Department of Education’s “NYS Portrait of a Graduate” affirms this, outlining qualities all public high school graduates should possess, including being global citizens, effective communicators, and culturally competent individuals. Clubs and activities play an important role in giving all students the
experiences they need to acquire these skills.
s chools need support to continue to provide no and low-cost program options.
To deliver a wide variety of high quality extracurricular programs, school districts need to leverage local community partners such as libraries, museums, colleges, and nonprofit organizations. These partnerships can broaden students’ exposure to areas of potential interest, complementing programs offered by school-based staff. Certified teachers, teacher assistants, school counselors and other staff are an integral part of the extracurricular landscape, working alongside community-based organizations’ staff to provide students with the best of both worlds. A true partnership between school districts and community organizations rests on leveraging the strengths of both.
In order to ensure all students have access to high quality enrichment opportunities, we need to close the opportunity gap, as many of these experiences come at a cost. Public schools in all communities should provide the funds to ensure that all students have
the opportunity to participate in a variety of clubs, sports, music, arts and other activities. Schools need support to be able to continue to provide no and low-cost program options. According to a report by the Wallace Foundation, “... families with means to pay for services and programs (care, arts, sports and clubs) simply agree that it is a good idea for children and youth to be cared for, form positive relationships, learn something new, have fun, prepare for their future and spark interests.” For many less-resourced families, if these opportunities are not provided in schools, their children cannot access them. Schools continue to need more support from the state and the federal government for these programs to continue. We need funding allocations and access to grants that support programming for all children, but particularly those in less affluent communities. State and federal agencies need to continue to provide children with more than a mere adequate education, but one that sets them up for long-term success. Let’s work together to create a future where all children have opportunities to learn, grow and thrive.
Monique Darrisaw-Akil is superintendent of the Uniondale School District.
A life celebrated for my brother, Kevin
My brother Kevin recently passed away. Death is a reality each family must confront. There’s no denying death’s heartbreaking impact on family and friends. But it’s important we take the opportunity to celebrate the life of the family member and friend we lost. My experiences with death growing up were as a Catholic altar boy assisting at funeral masses. The priest wore black vestments. The music and hymns were beyond somber. “Dies Irae,” an essential prayer at the Requiem Mass, was a Latin term depicting Judgment Day as the “Day of Wrath.” From my recollection, the funeral service was far from uplifting.
All that would change during the reforms emanating from the Vatican Council of the early and mid-1960’s, symbolized by the Requiem Mass, now called a “Celebration of Life,” were white priests’ vestments being substituted for black and “Dies Irae” being discarded.
Kevin, whose death followed almost
itwo years of suffering from a debilitating, rare form of blood cancer, did have his life celebrated by family and friends. Kevin was my younger brother but, as he always reminded me, a better athlete. A mediocre student in high school, he emerged at St. John’s University, graduating with honors and going on to enjoy an extremely successful career working for an industrial parts company with national and international operations, allowing Kevin to comfortably retire at a much younger age than I did.
Kevin was similar to our father ... never resentful or jealous of anyone.
Most important, Kevin was dedicated to his family — his wife JoAnne with whom he celebrated a 50th wedding anniversary last summer; his children Tara and Kevin; and his grandchildren K.J., Sienna and Camryn. Kevin was also a Mets fan who not only had season tickets but also would attend Mets spring training games at Port St. Lucie, Florida.
Kevin was similar to our father being intensely loyal and never resentful or jealous of anyone. So long as his family was doing well and was healthy, that was more than enough for him. Also emulating our father, Kevin never once complained or bemoaned his fate during more than 18 months of devastating ill-
ness, which he knew was bound to be terminal. He would speak to me matterof-factly: “I might not make it this time, but you never know,” before telling me “K.J. went 4-4 the other night and threw out a guy trying to steal” or “Sienna is really getting good at soccer.” Our conversations always ended upbeat. Kevin was particularly thankful to our sister Barbara, a retired nurse, who was supporting and advocating for him continually throughout his illness.
In the last conversation I had with Kevin just six days before he died, he reminded me of a Mets dinner we attended in 2016 when Mets first baseman Lucas Duda and Islanders great Bobby Nystrom were at our table. Days later, Kevin was brought from Plainview Hospital, where he had received such outstanding care, to his home in Seaford, where he passed away peacefully.
Kevin’s wake at Schmitt Funeral Home was indeed a celebration. Family members, including cousins we hadn’t seen in a while, were there. So too were local officials, including County Executive Bruce Blakeman, Chairman Joe Cairo and congressmen Nick LaLota and Tom Suozzi, labor leader Anthony Simon and All-American Notre Dame
quarterback Terry Hanratty. Though Kevin was not a member of either of their parishes, Monsignor Steve Camp from St. Patrick in Huntington and Fr. Joe Fitzgerald from St. William in Seaford came by to offer their uplifting celebratory condolences. Then there were the neighbors and people he worked with over the years sharing their memories of Kevin’s thoughtfulness and loyalty. Most moving was the outstanding, heartfelt speech given by his son Kevin.
The Celebration of Life Mass at Maria Regina Church the next morning was indeed a fitting finale to Kevin’s life, as were the patriotic musical renditions by the Nassau Police Pipe Band before and after the Mass and the dignified carrying of his flag-draped coffin by members of the NYPD Ceremonial Unit, which had been formed by our father more than a half-century ago. The final sendoff was a moving Honor Guard ceremony, which included the playing of taps by the 11th New York Regiment United States VolunteersAmerica at St. Charles Cemetery.
In true Irish tradition, our celebration of Kevin’s life continued through the afternoon at Paddy’s Loft Pub! Kevin R.I.P.
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
The Rich Must Tread Lightly in Politics
f you are familiar with the musical “Fiddler on the Roof,” you know the song “If I Were A Rich Man.?”
In that song ,Tevye, the patriarch of the family, dreams of all of the trappings that come with being rich . There is no doubt that there are many benefits to being affluent and most rich people can conquer many of life’s challenges. In my thinking, there is one exception, where the rich can’t always buy their way and that’s in the field of politics. There are so many examples of cases where the very rich try their luck in the political world and get burned by the experience. The most obvious is the current case of Elon Musk, said to be the wealthiest person in the world. Musk made his first foray into the political minefield when he decided to spend tons of personal wealth to help re-elect President Trump.
The real numbers are elusive but it is estimated that he invested at least
T$250 million in the 2024 national election. Most of the funds went to the Trump campaign but a sizeable amount went to various races around the country, including a judicial contest in Wisconsin. The race for the top court post didn’t work out so well as Musk’s candidate took a beating in a race where the incumbent used the Musk name as a successful weapon.
Undeterred by his Wisconsin loss, Musk plunged into the Washington battlefield by becoming the head of the Department of Governmental Efficiency (D.O.G.E.) To a businessman used to having his way all the time, taking a government position aimed at creating efficiencies in government sounded like a dream job. Being able to cut waste and fraud sounds like becoming a Superman in the nation’s capitol.
dealerships ablaze is enough to give any rich man a super migraine headache. Having many of his visions dashed by the GOP Congress, Musk is now back in Texas.
here are countless others who had unlimited funds and backers who flamed out.
Another example of a rich man getting burned in the political world is Michael Bloomberg. Bloomberg’s political career started out with great long-term promise. Having brilliantly run his own company, he chose to run for the job of Mayor of New York City. The voters were anxious to have a Bloomberg take over the city and he succeeded in having three effective terms in office. Buoyed by his highly acclaimed tenure as mayor, Bloomberg decided to dip his toe into national waters and run for president.
to participate in a national candidates debate. Unprepared for such an event, he was ambushed on national television by Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA). In a short 24 hours, his candidacy ended.
There are countless others who had unlimited funds and backers who flamed out when they pushed their fame and fortune a little too hard. Kelly Loeffler, who now chairs the Trump S.B.A., was an interim U.S. Senator for two years. Her wealthy family backed in her run for a six-year term, but Democrat Jon Ossoff upset her efforts. David Purdue, another wealthy Georgia resident who had strong corporate credentials, lost his re-election run to Democrat Rev. Raphael Warnock.
A short time ago Musk announced he was returning to the private sector to take care of his many businesses. By all counts, Musk has lost at least $100 billion in wealth, including a 51 percent loss in the value of the Tesla Company. That was bad enough, but to have people burning Tesla cars and setting Tesla
With a budget of at least $1 billion, the Bloomberg presidential effort got off to a brilliant start. He assembled great political minds on his staff and created a model political campaign. From personal observations, his operation was smooth, well-planned and highly professional. Many prominent business figures offered their backing and all was well until the mayor chose
There are dozens more stories of politicians whose money couldn’t buy short or long-term political happiness. And there are quite a few successful rich people serving at all levels of government. But there is a caveat for all rich men and women. If you think money alone will get you to the top in politics you are deluding yourself.
Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. Comments about this column? jkremer@ liherald.com.
JERRY KREMER
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Saving the environment means fixing our lawns
Suburban America, and Long Island, has always been defined by its picket white fences, apple pie, and of course emeraldgreen lawns, perfectly mowed in house after house. But this idyllic dream hides a growing ecological nightmare; these lawns are an environmentally disastrous drain on Long Island’s water supply, habitat and wildlife, and even the pocketbooks of regular homeowners.
This is why we need to begin embracing sustainable landscaping, before it’s too late.
At its core, sustainable landscaping revolves around harmonizing green spaces with native flora, a practice that inherently supports local wildlife. By opting for plants naturally adapted to the region’s climate and soil, homeowners create havens for birds and other animals. These native species not only provide crucial habitats but also bolster biodiversity, essential for maintaining resilient ecosystems in an ever-changing world.
Long Island boasts a wide variety of beautiful native grasses, such as Broomsedge and Appalachian sedge or tufted hair grass. Despite this, the most popular grass species on Long Island lawns are tall fescue (from Europe), perennial ryegrass (from Eurasia and North Africa) and Kentucky bluegrass (from Eurasia and North Africa).
Because these species are not native to Long Island and most lawns use only a single grass species, this leaves what are effectively ecological dead zones; the beautiful green lawn reduces biodiversity, which means fewer bugs and birds visit to help pollinate nearby plants and flowers, which chokes out life and nutrition from the soil and eventually, from Long Island itself.
Insects like bees, butterflies and beetles, critical pollinators and prey for larger species, struggle to survive in
letterS
these sterile grass monocultures that offer little food or shelter. Without these insects, birds lose a key food source, especially during nesting season. A mother chickadee, for example, needs thousands of caterpillars to raise a brood. But caterpillars only thrive on native plants. When yards are dominated by turfgrass and exotic ornamentals, the local food web begins to collapse.
This habitat loss ripples up the food chain. Foxes, squirrels, chipmunks, and deer rely on complex plant life for food, cover, and breeding grounds. Traditional lawns fragment the landscape, replacing vital thickets and understory with flat expanses that support little biodiversity. Even suburban predators, such as owls and hawks, struggle when the small mammals they hunt become scarce.
In addition to destroying our environment, this process also weakens the initial goal of having a beautiful lawn by killing the nutrients in the soil, making it harder for the transplanted grass to grow, demanding more water from our aquifers, which are already nearly wrung dry.
Water scarcity concerns are not foreign to Long Island, making sustainable landscaping a pragmatic choice. By selecting drought-resistant plants and employing water-efficient irrigation methods, such as drip systems and rainwater harvesting, residents significantly reduce their reliance on municipal water supplies. This not only conserves a precious resource but also mitigates runoff pollution, ensuring cleaner waterways and healthier aquatic ecosystems.
Traditional lawn care often involves heavy use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which can adversely impact soil health and pose risks to human health and wildlife. Since Long Island is after all, an island, we also have to worry about this from the lens of its impact on our Sound. Fertilizer runoff is high in nitrogen, and constant runoff has fueled
Federal money for fire departments
To the Editor:
As a member of the in Nassau and Suffolk counties to apply for the Federal Emergency Management Agency Staffing For Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant program.
Thank you for serving on the front lines and protecting our communities from fires, emergencies, and natural disasters. As a representative in Congress, I’m committed to supporting our first responders by maximizing the federal resources we bring back from Washington to Long Island to help you do your jobs safely and effectively.
The program aims to help fire departments, including volunteer departments, recruit, retain, and increase the number of trained firefighters available in their community.
My team and I are eager to assist you, and I would be glad to
the Sound’s rising temperature and increasing number of algal blooms in the past two decades.
In contrast, sustainable practices emphasize natural soil amendments like compost and organic matter, fostering nutrient-rich soils that support vigorous plant growth without synthetic inputs. Integrated Pest Management techniques further minimize pesticide use by leveraging natural predators and cultural practices, ensuring pest control without compromising environmental integrity.
The benefits of sustainable landscaping extend beyond aesthetics. Dense, healthy lawns act as effective filters, trapping dust, pollutants, and carbon dioxide while releasing oxygen—a vital contribution to improving local air quality. Moreover, practices such as composting and mulching enrich soil structure, promoting microbial activity and enhancing its ability to sequester carbon—a crucial strategy in combating climate change.
Individually, each sustainable landscape may seem modest in scale, but collectively, they form a formidable force for environmental change across Long Island. As more residents adopt these practices, the cumulative effect reverberates through neighborhoods, parks, and public spaces, fostering a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and resilience.
Transitioning to sustainable landscaping begins with understanding local soil and climate conditions, selecting appropriate native plants, and adopting waterefficient irrigation practices. Regular soil testing and thoughtful plant selection tailored to Long Island’s unique ecosystem are pivotal in creating thriving, low-maintenance landscapes.
We only have one island. Together, we can preserve Long Island as an Edenic paradise where our families can live, grow and play safely and healthily for decades.
opinions
New York can’t afford to lose federal scientific funding
Growing up in Babylon, there were endless opportunities to explore. During the summers, while my dad cleaned the fish he caught, I would collect the discarded parts and try to fit them back together — curious to understand how they worked.
Twenty years later, I’m now a doctoral student at the university of Florida, sifting through slices of human brain tissue and still asking the same big questions.
Along the way, I’ve contributed to studies on Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, post-traumatic stress disorder in veterans and, more recently, sports-related concussions. Many of these projects are now threatened by proposed federal funding cuts. These cuts could stall progress on treatments for conditions that affect millions of Americans — and their most devastating effects may fall on our children and grandchildren.
As your neighbor and a product of this community — where I was lucky to take AP biology and psychology classes
— I offer my perspective not to tell you what to think, but to offer a look behind the scenes.
In college, one of my professors received a grant from the National Institutes of Health to study a new treatment for non-suicidal self-injury. As the trial ended, participants were improving. But to be sure the improvement came from the new approach — and not therapy in general — we needed more analysis.
tFresh out of a statistics course, I volunteered to help. under supervision, I led an analysis that showed the treatment had been delivered correctly — and was more effective than existing options. I was hooked.
and sharpen our questions.
Since then, I’ve had both successful and unsuccessful experiments. I used to get frustrated at the slow progress in Alzheimer’s research — until I met a professor who had watched scientists invent the MRI in New York in 1969. That wasn’t long ago, historically speaking. In science, that’s just a blink.
hese cuts could stall progress ... for conditions that affect millions of Americans.
When I feel discouraged, I think about the patients I worked with after college — those who agreed to donate their brains after death to support research on brain chemistry and cognition. They knew the findings wouldn’t help them, but they wanted to help someone else down the line.
“right” and still fail. But failure is often a necessary step toward discovery.
Skeptical questions are not only fair — they’re essential. Is science funding a good investment? Is the process efficient? Are there biases?
As a scientist, I can assure you no one critiques science more rigorously than we do. We debate which ideas get funded, which findings are valid, and what holds up over time. But the public rarely gets to see that process.
The proposed cuts to federal science funding — made by individuals with no experience in research — are unprecedented. Some are calling this moment an “extinction event” for certain fields. Projects I planned to propose may never get off the ground. If this had happened a decade ago, I might never have become a scientist at all.
Later, I designed my own study to test whether people who self-injure have more rigid problem-solving styles. If true, that insight could help improve treatment. When I analyzed the data, my hypothesis was wrong. I was crushed.
But my professor reminded me: Science isn’t about being right or wrong. It’s not about individual ambition. Every so-called “breakthrough” builds on countless other studies — many of them failures — that refine our tools
Letters
write a letter asking for full and fair consideration of your application.
The FEMA SAFER Grant program provides federal funding directly to career, combined, and volunteer fire departments for hiring new, additional firefighters, and for the recruitment and retention of volunteer firefighters.
In FY24, there is $324 million available through the program. These grants are already appropriated from our tax dollars. But you must apply to get these funds to come to our communities or they will go to other towns and cities across the country. You may find additional information about the program at fema.gov/grants/preparedness/firefighters/safer and access the Notice of Funding Opportunity and fema.gov/sites/ default/files/documents/fema_gpd_safernofo_fy24.pdf.
The deadline to apply for the Fiscal Year 2024 SAFER grant program is July 3 at 5 p.m. eastern time. You can complete the full application at Go.Fema.gov. You may also contact the SAFER Program Help Desk for technical assistance and any questions you might have as you apply at: (866) 274-0960 or by email at FireGrants@fema.dhs.gov.
Please do not hesitate to contact my office by calling (202) 225-5516 for any support or assistance. Thank you for your work to help protect and secure our communities, and I look forward to continuing to work with you to make Long
Island safer.
LAuRA A. GILLEN Member of Congress
Harvesting summer aid
To the Editor:
Summer is near, and while that means sunshine and beach days, it also means uncertainty for many Long Islanders about where their next meal will come from.
Hunger doesn’t take a vacation, and unfortunately, food insecurity spikes during the summer when school meal programs pause and food donations tend to slow down. That’s why PSEG Long Island has launched our fifth annual Power to Feed Long Island food drive, a civic effort to support our neighbors in need.
Starting June 13 in Massapequa and through the end of September, PSEG will be setting up food collection bins at eight Stop & Shop supermarkets across the Island — one location every other Friday. The list can be found at PsegLiNy.com/ feedLI. We encourage everyone to donate nonperishable food items and personal care essentials, all of which will be distributed through our partners at Island Harvest Food Bank to local pantries, soup kitchens, and food programs throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties.
As a small token of thanks, PSEG Long Island volunteers will be offering
Today, breast cancer is no longer a death sentence. Heart disease is treatable. These breakthroughs were made possible by public investment. In New York alone, federal science funding supports more than 30,000 jobs and returns $8 billion in economic activity on a $3.5 billion investment.
But none of that progress is possible without the trust and support of the public.
And yes — progress in science is slow. Sometimes we do everything
But I am one now. And in the spirit of science, I refuse to let setbacks stop me from trying to make things better. If you feel compelled, I encourage you to contact your elected officials and voice support for continued federal science funding.
Brittany Rohl will receive her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the University of Florida in August, and then complete a fellowship with the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center’s Sports Medicine Concussion Program.
Framework by Tim Baker
free LED light bulbs and reusable shopping bags to donors. Representatives will also be on hand to provide information about energy efficiency and financial assistance programs. Island Harvest staff will share how they are working to combat hunger every day.
In the past four years of Power to Feed events, Long Islanders have donated the equivalent of more than 130,000 meals. So as we get ready to enjoy back-
yard cookouts and Ducks games, let’s remember that there is hunger in every ZIP code on Long Island. Please join us and our partners, Stop & Shop and Island Harvest, as we work to put more meals on more tables this season. Because no one should go hungry in our community.
DAvID LYONS Interim President and COO PSEG Long Island
Climbing the Rope Bridge at the Huckleberry Frolic — East Rockaway
BrittanY roHL
