HERALD AMITYvIlle
ReCORD
Rotary Duck Race coming in August
Also serving Amityville, North Amityville, Amity Harbor, Copiague, and East
scholarship winner
Amityville Junior League Essay Contest winners Jolieth Smith and Cate Tibbetts, are recognized during the Village of Amityville Board of Trustees meeting on July 13. Junior League of Amityville Scholarship Committee Co-chair and Corresponding Secretary Kasey Jacobsen, Deputy Mayor Owen Brooks, Mayor Michael O’Neill, and Trustees Adam Ansanelli and Roger Smith join them.
Amityville students recognized
The Village of Amityville Board of Trustees recognized two recent high school graduates on July 13 after earning top honors in the 2026 Amityville Junior League Essay Contest.
Jolieth Smith, a graduate of Amityville Memorial High School, received first place, while Cate Tibbetts, a graduate of St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School, earned second place. Mayor Michael O’Neill and village trustees honored the students during the board’s meeting.
This year’s contest asked students to respond to the prompt: “Describe a communi-
ty you belong to (cultural, academic, geographic, or interest-based). How has it shaped your identity and your sense of responsibility to others?”
Smith’s essay explored how her Caribbean American heritage and growing interest in architecture have shaped her identity and strengthened her appreciation for how design can foster connection and well-being. She wrote that values rooted in her cultural traditions — including mutual support, respect and resilience — have influenced her sense of CONTINUED ON PAGE 11
Babylon cracks down on vape sales to youths
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com
The Babylon Town Board is seeking a court-ordered sale of a North Babylon business property after officials said the owner repeatedly failed to stop illegal sales of tobacco and vaping products to minors despite a compliance agreement reached last year.
At the July 8 board meeting, a proposed agreement that would require the owner of Milk and Things, at 1287A Deer Park Ave., to immediately list the property for sale was discussed. If the owner declines to do so, the town plans to ask a court to order the sale.
“The intention is to protect our youth, our children and to make sure that these products are not being sold to them,” Babylon Town Supervisor Richard Schaffer said. “In addition to these items being sold, (vaping products), one of the complaints we got was that gummy worms, with THC, also being sold.”
THC is a crystalline compound that is the main active ingredient of cannabis.
According to the Town Attorney’s office, the business has a documented history of violations involving the sale of tobacco products to minors. Officials said arrests for unlawful dealing
with a child and selling tobacco to minors occurred at the business in 2024 and 2025.
The town and the business entered into a compliance agreement in October 2025 that allowed the owner to continue operating while demonstrating compliance with state and local laws, officials said.
Town officials said the agreement was violated following an undercover investigation that led to the execution of a search warrant by Suffolk County Police Department First Precinct officers on June 25. According to the town, an undercover minor purchased a flavored vape product during the investigation.
Police seized 2,217 flavored vape products with an estimated street value of roughly $60,000, officials said.
“The business has shown to have been an example of what a public nuisance is,” Schaffer said. “It is attracting young folks to something that’s so dangerous it can lead them to a life of being addicted to nicotine.”
Jorge Rosario, the town’s senior assistant attorney, told the board the products are designed and packaged to attract young people.
“They come in bright colored
CONTINUED ON PAGE 11
Courtesy Amityville Village
Amityville Rotary Duck Race Aug. 8
The Amityville Rotary Club will host its annual Duck Race fundraiser on Saturday, Aug. 8, at noon at Amityville Beach.
The community event raises money for the club’s charitable fund, which supports local service projects and community initiatives.
Participants can enter the race by sponsoring rubber ducks for $25 each or
five ducks for $100. Cash prizes will be awarded to the first three ducks to cross the finish line: $500 for first place, $250 for second and $100 for third.
Businesses and community members can also support the event through three sponsorship levels.
To purchase ducks or learn more, visit tinyurl.com/yvepatp4.
Amityville PBA to host cornhole fundraiser benefiting Tunnel to Towers Foundation
The Amityville Police Benevolent Association will host a community cornhole fundraiser on Aug. 27 to mark the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, with proceeds benefiting the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
The event is intended to bring the community together to honor the lives lost on Sept. 11 and recognize the courage, sacrifice and resilience of first responders, veterans and their families who were impacted by the attacks and their aftermath.
Amityville lost two community members on Sept. 11, 2001 — Peter O’Neill Jr. and Louise Lynch — and has also mourned others who have died in the
years since from illnesses related to the attacks.
The PBA is seeking event sponsors. To be recognized on event signage, sponsorship donations must be received by July 30.
Checks should be made payable to the Amityville PBA and mailed to 21 Ireland Pl., Amityville, NY 11701. Donations may also be made through Venmo to the Amityville PBA Guardian Angel Foundation at @Amityvillepbagaf. For more information about sponsorship opportunities, contact Amityville Police Det. Kyle Miller at kmiller@amityvillepdny.gov or (631) 880-0483.
Foundation offers scholarships
As the nation approaches the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, the Barasch & McGarry Charitable Foundation has opened applications for its Sept. 11 Descendants Scholarship Program.
Many Long Island families, first responders and recovery workers continue to be affected by 9/11-related illnesses.
The foundation will award five onetime scholarships of $25,000 each, totaling $125,000, to graduating high school seniors whose families lost a loved one to a 9/11-related illness.
The scholarships are funded through a partnership with Barasch & McGarry, a law firm that represents members of the 9/11 community. To apply go to: baraschfoundation.org/
“While this year’s graduating seniors were not yet born when the attacks occurred, many grew up experiencing
the loss of a parent or loved one to a 9/11-related illness,” Michael Barasch, managing partner of Barasch & McGarry, said in a statement. “Through these five $25,000 scholarships, we hope to honor their resilience, support their educational goals, and invest in the next generation.”
Eligible applicants must be accepted to an accredited college, university, community college, vocational school or trade school. Scholarship funds will be paid directly to the student’s educational institution.
Recipients will be notified by Aug. 3 and recognized at the foundation’s “Giving Back Benefit: Honoring the 25th Remembrance of 9/11” on Sept. 2. The foundation also provides grants to nonprofit organizations that support and advocate for members of the 9/11 community.
Carolyn James/Herald Photos
Rotarians Virginia Belling and Kathleen Thorn with Rotary President Carolyn Dodd hold up winning ducks at start of last year’s race .
Amityville Rotary honors community leaders
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com
The Amityville Rotary Club celebrated its annual Gift of Life Gala in June by recognizing three community members whose service has improved the lives of others while raising money for Rotary’s longtime humanitarian initiative that provides lifesaving heart care to children around the world.
For more than 50 years, Rotary’s Gift of Life program has helped children born with congenital heart defects receive specialized cardiac care they otherwise could not afford. Working with hospitals, physicians, volunteers and Rotary clubs around the world, the program arranges lifesaving surgeries, catheter-based procedures and followup care for young patients, either by bringing them to countries where treatment is available or by coordinating care closer to their homes.
The Amityville Rotary Club has supported the program for decades through its annual Gift of Life Gala, raising funds to help children and their families.
“Rotary’s motto is Service Above Self and it is more than just a phrase—it is a promise,” Amityville Rotary Club President Carolyn Dodd said. “Through this extraordinary initiative, children…receive life-saving heart surgery and medical care they would otherwise never receive. For families facing unimaginable challenges, the Gift of Life is more than a medical treatment, it is hope, healing and a second chance at life.”
Honoree Michele Camilleri said the event was a great success because of the kindness and generosity of the community.
“Without that support we would not be able to help all the children and make the world a better place,” she said. In addition to supporting the Gift of Life program, the gala recognizes residents who have demonstrated an enduring commitment to serving others.
This years’ Service Above Self Award was presented to Charlie Camilleri, whose volunteer efforts have supported the Amityville Rotary Club for many years.
Camilleri, the husband of Rotarian Michelle Camilleri, has dedicated countless hours to helping the club, “always with a quick smile,” according to Rotary members. A graduate of Aviation High School and John Jay College, he worked as an electrician with Local 3. He and his wife have three daughters and three grandchildren.
John Henry received the Frank B. Powell Rotarian Award in recognition of his years of community service. A retired bank executive, Henry has served as a director of both the Amityville and Copiague chambers of commerce, was a board member of Dominican Village and is a past president of the Amityville Rotary Club.
Henry and his wife, Roseann, live in Bay Shore. They have two children and three grandchildren.
The Local Hero Award was presented to Patricia Shea, founder and director of MOMMAS House, a residence that supports young mothers and their children. In 1970, Shea joined other volunteers to establish a grassroots effort to assist pregnant women and teenagers. Over the following six years, she became a New York state regional consultant and helped establish Nassau-Suffolk Birthright, a network of crisis pregnancy centers.
“The life of a young, single mother is not an easy one,” Shea said. “It takes tremendous amount of hard work and perseverance as well as a significant support system to overcome the many obstacles they face.”
For more than five decades, Shea and the volunteers of MOMMAS House have provided that support to young mothers and their children.
For more information about the Amityville Rotary Club and its community service projects, visit amityvillerotaryclub.com.
Photos/Carolyn James/Herald
Top photo, Rotary honoree Charlie Camilleri at the event with his wife Michele and their family.
Above, The Amityville Rotary Club’s Interact students Abigail Brown and Maleek Solomon with their teacher, Soraya Rankin at the event with Michele Camilleri.
At left, Pat Shea, founder of MOMMAS House with her family at the Rotary Gala.
Far Left, honoree John Henry third from left, with his wife and family.
Two separate crashes involving children leave three injured
Suffolk County Police are investigating two unrelated crashes in Lindenhurst and North Lindenhurst that occurred less than 24 hours apart, leaving three people hospitalized, including an 8-year-old girl and a 63-year-old woman.
The first incident occurred at approximately 2:34 p.m. on July 14 in North Lindenhurst.
Police said Patrice Mitchem, 62, of Amityville, was driving a 2010 Chrysler van westbound on Spiegelhagen Street when she turned left onto Wellwood Avenue and struck two pedestrians.
One of the pedestrians, Chasity Sandiford, 8, of Lindenhurst, was transported to Good Samaritan University Hospital in West Islip with serious but nonlife-threatening injuries. A second pedestrian, Leanna Duggan, 20, of Lindenhurst, was also taken to Good Samaritan with non-life-threatening injuries.
Mitchem was not injured. The van was impounded for a safety inspection.
The following morning, Suffolk County Police responded to a separate incident involving an unattended vehicle in a driveway on Wellwood Avenue.
According to detectives, an 8-year-old child entered a parked 2016 Honda at a home on Wellwood Avenue and pushed the vehicle’s start button. As the vehicle began rolling down the driveway, the child’s grandmother, Gina Bente, 63, attempted to get inside to stop it.
Police said the driver’s side door struck Bente, causing her to fall and hit her head on the pavement. The Honda continued into the roadway before striking a curb and coming to a stop.
Bente was transported to Good Samaritan University Hospital in serious condition. The child was not injured.
First Squad detectives are investigating both incidents. Police are asking anyone with information about the July 14 pedestrian crash to contact the First Squad at 631-854-8152.
West Babylon man indicted in fatal robbery of Deer
A West Babylon man has been indicted on murder and robbery charges in connection with the December 2024 death of a 65-year-old Deer Park man who prosecutors said was beaten, robbed and left in the roadway.
Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney announced that a grand jury indicted Jason Butt-Champagne, 25, on Thursday, July 9 on charges including second-degree murder and first-degree robbery in the death of Donald Klune.
According to prosecutors, Klune was
Park man
sitting in his parked vehicle on Brook Avenue in Deer Park at about 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 11, 2024, when Butt-Champagne approached the vehicle, forcibly pulled him from the driver’s seat and repeatedly beat and kicked him.
Prosecutors said Klune, who had one leg, was unable to defend himself during the attack.
Authorities allege Butt-Champagne then stole Klune’s vehicle and fled the scene, leaving the victim in the roadway without his cellphone.
Suffolk police alert the public to scam after arrest of Holtsville man
A Holtsville man has been charged with identity theft after Suffolk County police said he used another man’s personal information to open a bank account, deposit counterfeit checks and rent a vehicle.
Police said a Bay Shore man contacted them on May 6 after discovering a bank account had been opened and vehicles had been rented in his name without his permission. The victim had previously lost his wallet.
Following an investigation, Financial Crimes Unit detectives determined Justin Kopperl, 28, of 755 Waverly Ave. in Holtsville, allegedly used the victim’s personal information to open a bank
Copiague man charged after fleeing police on scooter, crashing into SUV
A 19-year-old Copiague man was seriously injured and charged after Suffolk County police said he fled officers on a motorized scooter before crashing into an SUV and a utility pole Saturday afternoon.
According to police, First Precinct officers attempted to stop Albert Jose Rosario Duran, who was operating a 2025 Racestar scooter southbound on Great Neck Road at about 12:05 p.m. Police said Rosario Duran refused to stop and attempted to evade officers.
About eight minutes later, at approximately 12:13 p.m., police said Rosario Duran collided with a 2012 Ford Escape driven by a 50-year-old Copiague woman on Great Neck Road just south of Rose Street. After striking the SUV, police said he crashed into a telephone pole.
Rosario Duran was transported to
The following incidents have been reported by the Suffolk County Police Department and other law enforcement and emergency service units:
LARCENIES
West Babylon: Someone stole a bike from outside of an apartment building on Evergreen Street July 9. The report was filed at 10:46 p.m. The report did not indicate the make of the bike nor its value.
ARRESTS
DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED
Good Samaritan University Hospital in West Islip with serious but non-lifethreatening injuries.
The driver of the Ford, Sandra De Leon, 50, of Copiague, was not injured.
Police charged Rosario Duran with third-degree unlawful fleeing of a police officer in a motor vehicle. He also received multiple traffic summonses, including reckless driving, third-degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and other traffic violations.
Police impounded both the scooter and the Ford Escape for safety inspections.
Rosario Duran was issued a field appearance ticket and is scheduled to be arraigned at First District Court in Central Islip at a later date.
Luisidania Paulino, 37, of Kennedy Ave., North Babylon; Savier Gonzalez, 32 of 507 17th St., West Babylon; Raul Estevez, 10 Bloomer Rd., Brewster, New York; Ordelmo Powell, 17604 Sayres Ave., Jamaica.
PETIT LARCENY
Maurice Saylor, 181 Parkwood Blvd., Wyandanch; Anthony Anzaloe, 56, 200 Veterans Memorial Highway, Hauppauge; Angelo Toney, 56, 33 Croydon Rd., North Amityville (also charged with Burglary).
GRAND LARCENY
Willie Smith, 43, of 55 2nd Ave., Bay Shore. People named in Crime Watch as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those offenses. They are presumed innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.
—Carolyn James
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.
account. Police said Kopperl deposited counterfeit checks into the account, transferred money through Cash App and used the account to rent a vehicle. According to police, the account was left with a negative balance of about $5,000. Kopperl was charged with first-degree identity theft, second-degree identity theft and two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a forged instrument.
He was scheduled to be arraigned July 21 at First District Court in Central Islip. Police ask anyone who believes they may have been a victim of Kopperl to contact the Financial Crimes Unit at (631) 852-6821.
WEB SITE: www.amityvillerecord.com / www.liherald.com/Amityville
legals@liherald.com
Learn more about how we’re helping communities thrive. psegliny.com/revitalization These two moms opened a spa. It had one big,
Mery and Sindy always knew they wanted to open a spa to bring beauty to customers. Little did they know it would have the same effect on the community. And Business First was there. We provided $23,000 in grants to help with much-needed renovations so Mery and Sindy could bring their vision to life.* Now, not only does their spa impact clients in a beautiful way, it gives the community an economic lift as well.
*Incentives, grants, and savings will vary with every project.
Mery Seminario and Sindy Catalan, ISSI Beauty Spa, Port Washington
L.I. Ducks look different for second half
By TONY BELLISSIMO tbellissimo@liherald.com
The Long Island Ducks pitching staff has a much different look for the second half of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball season.
Both ace Trevor Bauer and standout closer Ramon Santos had their contracts purchased by Mexican League franchises, leaving Long Island without its most accomplished and impressive arms but not without optimism.
“We’re very happy for Trevor and Ramon,” Ducks manager Lew Ford said. “They were great for us and earned new opportunities. But we’re doing a lot of good things here. We led the league in homers and ERA in the first half, so we feel pretty good about where we’re at.”
Bauer became not only the face of the Ducks (37-26 in first half for second place in the North Division, including 21-12 at home) but the entire Atlantic League in his abbreviated stint. The former MLB star posted a 5-1 record with a 2.36 ERA and 66 strikeouts to just seven walks in 42 innings of work across seven starts.
“I want to thank the Long Island Ducks organization for giving me the opportunity to be part of the team,” said Bauer, who rejoined his 2024 club, Diablos Rojos, June 22. “I’d also like to thank my teammates, the coaching staff, the clubhouse staff, and everyone behind the scenes who made my time here so enjoyable,” he added. “The support from the fans and the Long Island community has been truly special. We had sold-out crowds at home, packed stadiums on the road, and fans traveling from all over the Northeast just to come watch me pitch.”
Highlighting his stay on Long Island, Bauer fired a no-hitter April 26 at Lancaster and followed with a franchise record 15 strikeouts in a May 12 outing versus Gastonia.
“Trevor exceeded every expectation during his time with the Ducks,” team president Michael Pfaff said. “From his dominance on the mound to his commitment to fans and support of our organization, he made a tremendous impact both on and off the field.”
Five days after Bauer’s departure, Santos was signed by Saraperos de Saltillo. Santos appeared in 18 games this season, totaling an Atlantic League best nine saves with 0.95 ERA and 42 strikeouts across 19 innings.
Ford said Rafael Kelly, who starred in late innings for Hagerstown last season, will take over the closer’s role. The starting rotation is young and talented with Ryan Cardona, Tanner Jacobson, Michael Dominguez and Julian Minaya.
In just the third start of his professional career July 3, Jacobson got the second half started with a buzz by tak-
ing a no-hitter into the ninth inning of an 8-0 victory over Hagerstown.
The Ducks had a league-best 4.82 ERA in the first half and a run differential of plus-117.
The offense blasted 96 homers, also tops in the league, led by 16 from Jacob Robson and 11 apiece from Jorge Bonafacio and Marcus Chiu. Those three along with Gavin Collins all drove in at least 40 runs in the first half as well. Alsander Womack banged out 75 hits after ranking third in the Atlantic League in 2025 with Charleston.
“This is my fourth season in independent ball and every year whatever team I’ve been on has lost good players,” said Robson, a first-year member of the organization who reached the majors in 2021 with the Detroit Tigers. “We have a great clubhouse here and I feel we have
a lot more in the tank,” he added.”
Ford is also counting on the return of key position players Chris Roller, who leads off, and Anthony Garcia from the injured list to make a difference in the second half as the Ducks chase a playoff berth.
The Ducks set a franchise record July 12 with a dozen stolen bases in a 4-3 win over Charleston. Long Island won eight of its first 11 games to begin the season’s second half on a heater.
“I’m always confident,” Ford said. “We’ve got a good team and we’re here to win.”
Photos courtesy Long Island Ducks
The Ducks led the Atlantic League in run differential in the first half at plus-117.
Former MLB star pitcher Trevor Bauer left his mark on Long Island with a 5-1 record, including a no-hitter.
Courtesy Steve Leung
Wendy Feinberg, LIMEHOF Co-Founder Norm Prusslin, LIMEHOF Vice President Tom Neeedham, Nicholas Suwalski, Patricia DeRosa Padden, Nicole DeRosa Padden and Paul Graf.
Nicholas Suwalski awarded Long Island Music scholarship
The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, LIMEHOF, recently awarded ten $1,000 scholarships to ten 2026 graduating students from across Long Island. Nicholas Suwalski of Farmingdale was one of those scholarship recipients.
A graduate of Farmingdale High School, Suwalski plays the trumpet and will be studying for a double major in Trumpet Performance and Music Education at Queens College’s Aaron Copland School of Music.
“The record number of scholarship applications we received this year is an encouraging sign for the future of the arts,” said Tom Needham, vice chairman of the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame. “We are proud to provide thousands of dollars in scholarship support to outstanding students pursuing careers in music performance, music education, and theater, and we look forward to seeing the contributions they will make to their communities and the arts for years to come.”
Take Me Out to the Ballgame
Join YES Community Counseling Center, in support of the Take Me Out to the Ballgame Foundation, TMOTBG, for a fun-filled evening with live music, raffles and food at Christmas in July at Mulcahy’s on July 30 from 6:30 to 10 p.m.
Tickets sold by YES will directly benefit TMOTBG, which is looking to replenish ten local Nassau and Suffolk food pantries.
The event will have auctions and raffles, which will include tickets to Yankees, Mets, Knicks and Rangers games,
as well as Harry Styles concert tickets. There will be barbecue, including chicken, hamburgers and hotdogs, as well as live entertainment. The cost is $50 per ticket. Children 10 and under are free.
For more information and to purchase a ticket, please call YES at (516) 799-3203 or visit takemeouttotheballgamefoundation.org.
Tickets can also be purchased at muls.com or at the door.
Mulcahy’s is located at 3232 Railroad Ave., Wantagh.
Meet some local scholars
•The following students recently graduated from Adelphi University: Sarah Isaac of Amityville; Kevin Hernandez of Amityville; Marleny Duran of Copiague; Delia Exantus of Amityville; Sumaykira Almonte Lopez of Copiague; Leonel Saravia Gonzales of Amityville; Emma Harms of Amityville; Alexia Williams of Amityville; Janet Ho of Amityville; Christina Sanchez of Copiague; Adrenna Taylor of Amityville; Jason Webber of Copiague;
and Taliki Barnes of Amityville; Sarah Isaac of Amityville; Kevin Hernandez of Amityville; Marleny Duran of Copiague; Delia Exantus of Amityville; Sumaykira Almonte Lopez of Copiague; Leonel Saravia Gonzales of Amityville; Emma Harms of Amityville; Alexia Williams of Amityville; Janet Ho of Amityville; Christina Sanchez of Copiague; Adrenna Taylor of Amityville; Jason Webber of Copiague; and Taliki Barnes of Amityville.
The following are a list of public meetings and special events for the coming week: Please note: All meetings are subject to change without notice.
THURSDAY, JULY 23
• Amityville Rotary Club Meeting: 8 a.m., Brownstones Coffee, 55 Merrick Road, Amityville. For more information, please call President Carolyn Dodd at (631) 374-8712.
• Church Attic Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. For information, call (631) 264-0152
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
or email amitychurch1792@gmail. com.
• Town of Babylon Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting: 6 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. For more information, please call (631) 957-3012.
FRIDAY, JULY 24
• 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, JULY 25
• Amityville Village Farmers Market: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. The market will be every Saturday until October 24. For more information, call (631) 264-0152.
• Church Attic Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. For information, call (631) 264-0152 or email amitychurch1792@gmail. com.
• St. Mary’s Thrift Shop: 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., 175 Broadway, Amityville, enter from rear parking lot. Lots of collectibles, glassware, clothing and other gently used items. For information, call (631) 464-4899.
SUNDAY, JULY 26
• 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, JULY 28
• Town of Babylon Accessory Apartment Review Board Meeting: 6 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lin -
denhurst. For more information, please call (631) 957-7468.
• Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m., Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9592, 55 Hickory Lane, Levittown. Free weekly, inperson meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631) 332-0552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808. All calls are confidential. •Church Attic Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. For information, call (631) 264-0152 or email amitychurch1792@gmail.com.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 29
• Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m. Free weekly, virtual meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631) 332-0552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808. All calls are confidential.
• Church Attic Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. For information, call (631) 264-0152 or email amitychurch1792@gmail. com.
ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN CHURCH
147 Park Ave., Amityville Office Tel. 631-264-0763 The Rev. Thomas W. Cusanelli, Pastor
WORSHIP SERVICES: Sunday Worship & Sunday School 10:00 a.m. Wednesday Worship 7:30 p.m.
Woo Young Choi, Pastor
Propel NY finalizes routing, hires contractors
By JULIA CAPITELLI jcapitelli@liherald.com
The New York Power Authority and New York Transco, co-developers of Propel NY Energy, have finalized the proposed routing of their planned underground transmission lines and hired contractors for pre-construction activities. Residents in affected areas continue to oppose the roughly 90-mile project set to run across Nassau County into Westchester.
July 17 was the deadline for parties to file public comments with the New York State Public Service Commission for or against the project. The PSC must issue a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need and approve Environmental Management and Construction Plans before construction can begin.
According to Marykate Guilfoyle, strategic communications manager at Transco, adjustments in routing were made based on technical analysis, stakeholder input and evaluation of alternatives.
The Daly Boulevard culvert crossing, in Oceanside, was adjusted to “reduce schedule and construction risk,” Guilfoyle said. A segment in the Town of Hempstead was refined to “avoid conflicts” with the Hempstead Fire Department and to use wider roadways to mitigate traffic.
One segment in Glen Head was adjusted to “eliminate a complex trenchless Long Island Rail Road crossing.” Another altered the Glen Head Road-to-Glen Cove Avenue-to-Kissam Lane segment, addressing a “request for reduced magnetic field impacts along Glen Head Road.”
Hallen Integrated Construction Services, Haugland Group and BOND Civil & Utility Construction, Inc. were chosen for pre-construction planning and regula-
tory submissions.
“These expert contractors are a valuable addition to further the development of detailed construction plans,” Transco President Joris Veldhoven said in a news release. “Their proven expertise on complex projects and strong track records and relationships in the project communities will result in thorough plans for the upcoming construction phase.”
“Hallen Integrated Construction Services and Hallen Construction are excited to partner with NY Transco and NYPA on construction planning for Propel NY,” Shepard Poole, president and CEO of The Hallen Construction Co. Inc., said in the release. “This
project is highly important and greatly necessary for the region.”
Support for Propel’s joint proposal has come from state agencies, the City of New York, construction firms, trade unions and some residents. Other residents, school districts, municipalities and elected officials, however, have filed comments opposing the project, which was chosen by the New York Independent System Operator in 2023 as a solution to issues like increased demand and severe weather.
“It’s premature to advance Propel, as it lacks both federal and state approval,” said Christine Panzeca, a Glen Head resident and a lead opponent of the project. “This is especially concerning, given that NYISO is aware that the project is not cost-effective and was specifically advised not to pursue it. In addition, more than 70 percent of the parties have not signed the joint proposal, citing significant unresolved deficiencies in issues affecting health, safety, environmental integrity, route selection, and procedural fairness.”
The Potomac Economics Market Monitoring Unit wrote in a 2023 report that “if the NYISO determines that it must or should select a project, we recommend that it reconsider its recommendation of T051 since it does not appear to be the most cost-effective project.” T051 refers to Propel.
Other parties who have submitted comments in opposition include environmental groups; U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi; Nassau County Legislators Delia DeRiggiWhitton and Patrick Mullaney; the North Shore, Roslyn and Syosset school districts; the Village of Sea Cliff; and Supervisors John Ferretti, Joseph Saladino and Jennifer DeSena, of the towns of Hempstead, Oyster Bay and North Hempstead, respectively.
Additional reporting by Will Sheeline.
Herald file photo
Some of the proposed routes for the Propel NY project have been altered.
Amityville Tide’s first graduating class
The Amityville Memorial High School Class of 2026 made school history on June 27, becoming the first graduating class to leave campus as the Amityville Tide.
Hundreds of graduates, dressed in red caps and gowns, crossed the stage on the school’s football field as family members, friends, faculty and staff celebrated the milestone. Overcast skies held off long enough for the outdoor commencement ceremony to conclude.
Valedictorian Cristian Chicas encouraged his classmates to embrace the opportunities ahead while reflecting on the perseverance that brought them to graduation.
“We all stepped forward, not because we were certain we would succeed, but because we believed we could,” Chicas said. “With the next chapter of our lives on our horizons, we have so much to look forward to and our dreams to achieve.”
Salutatorian Elidi Laquidara reminded graduates that their futures would be shaped by hard work and determination.
“You are capable of achieving anything you desire, because all you need to do is put in the time and effort, and you are unstoppable,” Laquidara said. “We’re all together for one last time, so let’s savor this moment.”
Principal John Cardone reflected on the significance of graduating from Amityville and the strength found in the school’s diverse community.
“There’s something very special about
being from Amityville,” Cardone said. “This beautiful diversity is what helped prepare you for the world beyond high school. To quote the American poet Amanda Gorman, ‘There is always light, if only we are brave enough to see it.’ To the Class of 2026, go out in the world and find that light, and when you do, shine. Please know that you will always have a home here with us at Amityville Memorial High School.”
Superintendent Gina Talbert told graduates that their diplomas represented more than academic success.
“Your diploma represents much more than academic achievement,” Talbert said. “It represents resilience, determination and courage, and no one can ever take that away from you. Be courageous enough to chase your dreams, be humble enough to keep learning, and be kind enough to lift others as you climb.”
Class President Sage Stephens also addressed the graduating class.
The ceremony featured performances by the Amityville Memorial High School band and choir. Assistant Principals Maria Vineyard, Angelica Rodriguez and Mary Frances Hopkins recognized students who earned the New York State Seal of Biliteracy, AP Capstone diplomas and those who committed to serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.
The Class of 2026 also marked the end of a significant chapter in the district’s history, becoming the first class to graduate under the Amityville Tide name following the district’s transition from its former mascot.
—Christie Leigh Babirad
Photos Courtesy Amityville School District
Top right, Valedictorian Cristian Chicas addressed his fellow graduates and reflected on his journey at Amityville Memorial High School.
Bottom right, Salutatorian Elidi Laquidara also spoke about her journey at Amityville Memorial High School.
At left, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Gina Talbert encouraged graduates to be courageous in pursuing their dreams.
There was a sea of red as Amityville held its 2026 graduation ceremonies.
Junior League scholars honored
responsibility to others.
At Amityville Memorial, Smith participated in Key Club and the National Honor Society and earned high honor roll recognition. She will attend Farmingdale State College this fall.
Tibbetts’ essay reflected on how her experience at St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School shaped her through the values of service, responsibility and faith. She described how a service trip to the Dominican Republic strengthened her sense of empathy and connection to others.
A summa cum laude graduate, Tibbetts was a member of multiple honor societies, including the National Honor Society. She also participated in community service projects, competed in varsity basketball and sailing, and served as a mentor, ambassador and student council member. She will attend Providence College this fall. In other business, the board:
Conducted a public hearing on Intro-
ductory Local Law No. 2 of 2026, which would amend the Village Code to change the licensing term for storage trailers. Village officials said the proposal would allow applications to be investigated and approved year-round, rather than on an annual schedule, improving the review process for Village Hall, the Police Department and applicants.
•Approved a block party on Central Avenue for Aug. 15.
•Authorized the Police Department to purchase a Patrol-LED DFR drone and related equipment from SkyDio Inc. for $21,082.47, and approved the Department of Public Works’ purchase of stop-line pavement marking tape from 3M Co. for $3,244.
•Scheduled a public hearing on Introductory Local Law No. 3 for Aug. 6. The proposed law would require landscaping vehicles operating in the village to prominently display the company’s name and a village-issued decal. —Carolyn James
Town shutters local business
estimated the items had a resale value of $60,000.
packaging in flavors such as strawberry banana and whatever else you can think of and are meant to attract young people,” he said.
Babylon Town Councilman DuWayne Gregory said the issue has been a priority since his time as a Suffolk County legislator, when he sponsored legislation intended to address illegal tobacco sales to minors.
“So this is an issue that’s been very important to me,” Gregory said. “It’s important that we get this nuisance — these bad actors — and to give localities opportunities to really capture these individuals and do what the law is intended to do, which is to protect our kids.”
Schaffer said the town has invested significant resources in helping the Lindenhurst and Wyandanch school districts combat youth vaping by installing vape detection systems in school bathrooms and locker rooms. He said the town’s enforcement efforts are intended to prevent minors from illegally obtaining tobacco and vaping products.
Town officials said they no longer have confidence the current owner can operate the business in compliance with the law.
Rather than immediately seeking to permanently close the business, the board proposed allowing it to remain
We invite you to share your Sept. 11 story with the Herald
As we approach the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, the Herald is preparing a special commemorative section that will remember those we lost, honor those who served and examine the lasting impact of that day on our communities.
We want to hear your story.
Were you a commuter, teacher, student, first responder, health care worker, member of the clergy or resident who saw the events of that day unfold? Did you lose a loved one on Sept. 11, or in the years that followed because of illnesses linked to the toxins at ground zero? Were you a child who grew up without a parent, or are you someone whose life and career were inspired by the courage and sacrifice of that day?
Our reporters are also looking to tell the stories behind the local memorials, annual remembrance ceremonies, scholarship funds, charitable organizations and volunteer efforts that commemorate Sept. 11.
We are interested in how Long Island has changed over the past 25 years, from emergency preparedness and public safety to the lasting health effects experienced by first responders and survivors.
If you have a personal story, photos or memories, or know someone whose experience should be shared, we would be honored to hear from you. Your story can help preserve an important chapter
The Herald is looking for your stories. Above, former Rep. Peter King reflected on the courage of first responders at Seaford’s remembrance last year.
of our communities’ history for future generations.
Contact the Herald by emailing jbessen@liherald.com or jvallone@liherald. com with 9/11 Story in the subject line. Include your name, hometown, phone number and a brief description of your experience. A Herald reporter will follow up with you.
Together, we can ensure that these stories are never forgotten.
–Jeffrey Bessen
open temporarily while the property is marketed for sale. Under the proposal, the business would be subject to frequent inspections and close monitoring of its inventory to ensure no additional illegal sales occur during the transition.
If the owner does not voluntarily list the property for sale, the town plans to ask a court to order the sale, officials said.
[Defense attorney Michael McCarthy’s response will be inserted here.]
McCarthy, who represents the business owner, is expected to meet with the Town Attorney’s office before the board’s next meeting to negotiate the terms of the proposed agreement.
Under the proposal discussed by the board, the owner would be required to provide proof that the property has been listed for sale through a licensed real estate broker or as a for-sale-by-owner listing. Town officials also plan to establish inspection protocols governing the business while it remains open.
The board said its goal is to remove the current operation while allowing the commercial property to transition to a new owner who complies with state and local laws.
The board tabled Resolution 523 until its Aug. 5 meeting to allow both sides time to negotiate the proposed agreement.
If you have an opinion on this story, send letter to cjames@liherald.com.
any
Herald file photo
Carolyn James/Herald Town Board displays the cartons of vape products taken from Milk & Things during the hearing July 8. The town
Consider becoming a foster pet parent
The word “foster” comes from the Old English fostrian, meaning “to nourish or support,” and later, “to encourage or help grow.” Foster homes are essential to animal rescue. Below are 10 reasons to consider fostering a dog or cat for your municipal shelter or a private humane organization:
1. Fostering saves lives. Infant kittens and puppies are too young to survive on their own at a shelter because staff members are not there 24 hours a day. Bottle babies need frequent feedings and constant monitoring until they are weaned and can eat on their own. Groups and town shelters, including Babylon and Hempstead, reach out to experienced bottle feeders. Most rescues provide pet food, veterinary care and other supplies for foster pets.
2. Fostering frees up space in shelters and kennels. Kitten season once stretched from April through November, with the largest influx at the end of summer. Now, many rescues report seeing kittens throughout the year. Foster programs prevent all kittens from arriving at shelters at once. Babylon asks people who have found kittens to care for them until they reach at least 2 pounds. They can then be spayed or neutered and placed for adoption rather than spending months growing up in a shelter. Last
Hope places long-timer or special-needs dogs in foster homes, opening kennel space for newly rescued dogs.
3. Many organizations do not operate shelters. Local rescue groups rely on foster homes to care for dogs and cats until permanent homes are found. Boarding animals is expensive and makes it harder for prospective adopters to meet them.
4. Fostering helps rescues learn about each animal. Since many strays arrive without histories, foster families help determine whether dogs are housebroken, comfortable in a home and suited to different living situations. The more rescuers learn, the better they can match pets with adopters.
5. Fostering helps socialize homeless animals. Shelter pets often come from neglect or isolation. Foster care introduces them to people, other pets and the normal sights and sounds of a home while reinforcing training.
6. Fostering relieves the stress of long-term confinement. Dogs may pace, circle or refuse to return to their kennels after extended shelter stays. Cats may overgroom or become withdrawn. Foster homes provide a comfortable environment that may improve these behaviors.
7. Foster care benefits pets recovering from surgery or illness. Dogs recovering from heartworm treatment often do better in quiet homes. Post-surgical pets benefit from one-on-one monitoring and extra TLC.
8. Fostering limits the spread of illness. Even with veterinary care, antibiotics and isolation areas, crowded shelters can struggle to contain upper respiratory infections and other contagious illnesses. Foster homes help prevent additional exposure.
9. Short-term fostering offers flexibility. People whose schedules or family situations prevent permanent pet ownership may still be able to foster for several weeks or months.
10. Fostering is rewarding. You open your heart and home to pets in need, knowing you eased their journey to their forever home. Foster families often stay in touch with adopters. If fostering is right for you, contact a local rescue group or municipal shelter to complete a foster application. Once approved, the organization will work with you to find a pet that fits your household.
For information on how you can become a pet foster parent, call 631-671-2588.
STEPPING OUT
Carolyn Miller comes home Authentically country with a local flair
By Abbey Salvemini
In a genre built on authenticity, Carolyn Miller is the real deal. She’s carved her own path into country music, proving that heart, hustle and a powerful story transcends geography. Her sound fuses the honesty of country storytelling with the hooks and polish of mainstream pop, drawing in fans from Nashville to the Northeast and everywhere in between.
For those unfamiliar with Miller, it’s time to get to know the Massapequa native. She perfoms during Huntington Summer Arts Festival at Heckscher Park on Saturday, with her full band, just weeks before the release of her new self-titled EP. She’s steadling expanded her national following while working between Long Island and Nashville.
Miller’s journey into music began early. A former professional child actress, she worked in TV, film and theater; graduating from the Boston Conservatory at Berklee College of Music with a degree in Musical Theatre. But it was country music that gave her the space to tell her own story. With a voice made for big moments and a pen sharp enough to turn lived experience into lyric, she’s quickly established herself as one of the genre’s rising stars.
Appearing as part of this year’s Huntington Summer Arts Festival is about more than just a concert performance for Miller.
“I want it to just feel like a perfect summer night on the Island,” she says. “I hope families and kids pack a cooler, a picnic, bring lawn chairs and blankets. Kids [can] come dance in front of the stage, friends run into each other and reconnect. Everyone just enjoys a great night of live music together.”
“I think there’s something special about the free community concerts because they just bring together people of all ages,” she adds. “If people leave smiling and singing one of the songs in their heads on the drive home and just feeling a little more connected than when they arrived, then we’ve done our job.”
Her energetic, heartfelt shows paired with her down-to-earth, girl-next-door personality make her instantly relatable to audiences, especially suburban women navigating the beautiful chaos of love, motherhood and modern life.
After taking last year off to become a mother, Carolyn — now mom to a two year-old daughter — is stepping boldly into a new era. Her latest single “Fighting For You” (released May 2025) marks the first in a six-song series that chronicles this next chapter of her life. Balancing vulnerability and strength, it’s a reflection of the grit, grace, and growth that define her story today.
Saturday’s “hometown” performance, her second
‘…Wind on down the road
festival appearance, is a notable stop on her journey.
“Long Island’s always been home,” she reflects. “Career-wise, it’s taken me all over the country, but Long Island is where I’m raising my family and where my husband, my daughter and I live. I’m going to have all my family, lifelong friends and people who’ve been following my career for years and even people who have just only recently discovered my music online. Those moments you don’t take for granted and make all the hard work worth it.”
Saturday’s audience will be treated to an early look at Miller’s upcoming EP, a deeply personal collection of songs that marks her next creative chapter.
25, 8-9 p.m.
• Huntington Summer Arts Festival, Chapin Rainbow Stage, Heckscher Park, 2 Prime Ave., Huntington • Visit huntingtonarts.org for more
“The EP is actually going to be self-titled because I just feel like it’s the most honest representation of who I am today. It’s not just who I am as an artist, but also as a wife and a mom and a songwriter.”
Her background in theater brings an added layer of energy and storytelling to this and every performance.
“I love mixing big sing-along moments and then having stories behind the songs and then some more emotional moments along the way. I like to think of it as just a production.”
Despite spending much of her professional life in Nashville, her musical identity has been shaped by her local roots.
“We didn’t really grow up with country music on Long Island. I always joke that if you don’t like country music, you’ll probably like mine, and if you do like country music, then you’ll hopefully like it too.”
As an independent artist, Miller has developd a following of more than 175,000 across social media while overseeing much of her own marketing and creative direction, between here and Nashville. Over the past year she’es performed at CMA Fest, and has shared the stage with the likes of Carrie Underwood, Lee Brice, Sam Hunt, Ashley McBryde, and Dustin Lynch.
Whether she’s behind a mic, on a stage, or in a writing room, Miller is redefining what it means to be a country artist in 2026: grounded, fearless and fully herself. As she prepares to return to Huntington, Miller urges concertgoers, whether longtime fans or first-time listeners, to simply enjoy an evening together.
“It’s free. It’s outdoors, family-friendly. Whether you’ve followed my music for years or you’re just discovering it now, we’d love to have you.”
Led Zeppelin fans, rejoice! Get The Led Out returns with “A Celebration of the Mighty Zep,” two electrifying nights of classic rock, running through June 28. From the bombastic and epic, to the folky and mystical, GTLO has captured the essence of Led Zeppelin and brought their music to the concert stage. The Philadelphia-based group consists of six veteran musicians, intent on delivering Led Zeppelin live, like you’ve never heard before! Utilizing the multi-instrumentalists at their disposal, GTLO re-creates songs, in all their depth and glory, with the studio overdubs that Zeppelin themselves never performed. Hailed for their powerful tribute to what many consider the greatest rock band of all time, the band always delivers Friday and Saturday, July 24-25, 8 p.m. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington.
Patty Griffin
The singer-songwriter brings her powerful storytelling and unmistakable voice to the stage in support of her latest album “Crown of Roses.” A two-time Grammy winner and Americana Music Association Lifetime Achievement honoree, Patty Griffin has spent more than two decades crafting emotionally resonant songs that blend folk, Americana and blues. She’s been praised for her ability to create vivid emotional portraits through music. Known for songs that linger long after the final note, Griffin continues to captivate audiences with intimate performances that celebrate both life’s hardships and its quiet moments of hope. She is joined by special guest Lucy Wainwright Roche.
Saturday, July 25, 8 p.m. $91, $79, $67. Jeanne Rimsky Theater at Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.
Courtesy Carolyn Miller
The many sides of Carolyn Miller. She’s emerged as one of country-pop’s rising independent artists, blending blend heartfelt storytelling with her singular style.
Your Neighborhood CALENDAR
Wendy Klemperer: Wrought Taxonomies
Vanderbilt Museum welcomes everyone to enjoy the exhibition of outdoor sculpture at the historic summer estate of William Kissam Vanderbilt II. Klemperer’s sculptures. a haunting assemblage of animal forms that span imaginary, endangered, familiar, and exotic species, celebrate natural history and the nonhuman world through evocative interactions with the surrounding environment. Using materials salvaged from scrapyards, she composes ecological narratives that respond to the history and collections of Suffolk County’s first public park and museum. Her brilliant use of gestural lines captures the spectator’s attention and invites museum-goers to reflect on the relationship between an interest in animal life and the incessant push of human industry. Visitors are encouraged to picnic on the grounds.
• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport
• Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Contact: vanderbiltmuseum.org or call (631) 854-5579
‘Everybody Loves Raymond: Celebrating 30 Years’
Visit the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame for an immersive exhibit (designed by LIMEHOF Creative Director, renowned designer Kevin O’Callaghan). It features the 70-foot-wide set from the show’s recent 30th anniversary TV special on CBS, never before on display. Visitors can walk into the world of the Barone family and explore their home through original studio sets, which include the living room, the kitchen and other areas of the house. Also see a variety of iconic items, including original clothing, the famous fork and spoon, and the Christmas toaster, among other classic items from the series. Multimedia clips, including behind the scenes and rare out-takes and a range of related videos play in LIMEHOF’s surround sound theater.
• Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook
• Time: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
• Contact: limusichalloffame.org or (631) 689-5888
AUG
Double Vision: The Foreigner Experience
Comprising a group of exceptionally talented musicians and die-hard Foreigner fans, Double Vision has perfected the art of bringing to life the unforgettable hits that have defined generations. From “I Want to Know What Love Is” to “Cold as Ice,” their renditions are a harmonious blend of passion, precision, and nostalgic energy. Drawing inspiration from Foreigner’s unmistakable sound and stage presence, Double Vision delivers a performance that pays homage to the band’s legacy while infusing their own charisma and enthusiasm. Their commitment to authenticity is matched only by their unwavering dedication to creating an electrifying experience for their audiences. With an impressive catalog of classics at their fingertips, Double Vision transports everyone to an era when arena rock ruled and Foreigner reigned supreme. Each concert is a testament to their musical prowess, transporting fans to a time when anthems were born and memories were made. Double Vision delivers the highest level of integrity and technical prowess to bring you all the hits from the band that you’ve come to love. With their recent signing to Frontiers Music the band has achieved a milestone as one of the first tribute to secure a record deal. Honoring Foreigner and its audience, they offer a show second to none.
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington
• Time: 8 p.m.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
Summertime tunes
The Town of Babylon concert series continues with Magic of Motown. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a night of entertainment for the whole family.
• Where: Wyandanch Plaza, 40 Station Drive, Wyandanch
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 957-3000
JUL
26
Shakespeare in the Park The Village of Amityville hosts Eastline Theater. Enjoy “Much Ado About Nothing.” Bring a lawn chair or a blanket for the grass and enjoy theater at its best in a relaxed outdoor setting.
• Where: James A. Caples Memorial Park, S. Bayview Ave., Amityville
• Time: 5 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 598-0363
JUL
27
Nourish Babylon SitDown Dinner Every Monday Nourish Babylon holds a sit-down dinner at Christ Episcopal Church. All are welcome to attend.
• Where: 12 Prospect St., Babylon
Amityville restaurants. Tables and chairs are provided, first come/first served.
• Where: Greene Ave., at the corner of Broadway Route 110, Amityville
• Time: 6-10 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 264-6000
Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop
Stop by Simpson United Methodist Church’s Thrift Shop for some unique finds.
• Where: 30 Locust Ave., Amityville
• Time: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 789-2569
St. Mary’s Thrift Shop Stop by St. Mary’s Thrift Shop to check out some found treasures. Choose from collectibles, glassware, clothing and other gently used items.
• Where: St. Mary’s, 175 Broadway, Amityville (enter from rear parking lot)
• Time: 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 464-4899
‘Twelfth Night’ Vanderbilt Museum’s Shakespeare in the Courtyard series continues with the Bard’s beloved romantic comedy of gender confusionIt’s performed by the Carriage House
Players in the Mansion’s beautiful Spanish Revival courtyard. $20, $15 seniors and students.
• Where: S180 Little Neck Road, Centerport
• Time: 8 p.m.: also July 25 and July 29
• Contact: vanderbiltmuseum.org or call (631) 854-5579
Summer
sounds
The Town of Babylon concert series continues with Gold Dust Woman. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a night of entertainment for the whole family.
• Where: Tanner Park, 400 Baylawn Ave., Copiague
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 957-3000
Vanderbilt Estate Walking Tour
Visit the Vanderbilt Museum for an intriguing walking tour of the estate with knowledgeable museum educators. Learn about the history of the Eagle’s Nest estate, Warren & Wetmore’s design and exterior architectural details of the 24-room Spanish Revival mansion, including the striking ironwork of Samuel Yellin, considered the greatest iron artisan of the early 20th century. Also visit the marine, natural history and
cultural artifact collections. $16 $15 seniors/students, $14 children 5-17 (members free). Registration required
• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport
• Time: Noon-1 p.m.
• Contact: vanderbiltmuseum.org or call (631) 854-5579
JUL
25
Farmers Market
Stop by for fresh produce and products from various vendors.
Open every Saturday until Oct 24.
• Where: First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville
• Time: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 264-0152
Church Attic Thrift Shop
Visit First United Methodist Church for their weekly thrift shop.
• Where: First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville.
• Time: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 264-0152 or email amitychurch1792@gmail.com
• Time: 5-6:30 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 661-5757
JUL
28
Grab-and-Go Free Dinners Free dinners are available at Cross of Christ Lutheran Church, every Tuesday. Drive into the parking lot behind the church and a meal will be hand-delivered to you.
• Where: 576 Deer Park Ave., Babylon
• Time: 4-5 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 987-2896
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
FREE community event focused on health, wellness, and lifestyle
Meet trusted local exhibitors and service providers
Take advantage of on-site health screenings
Enjoy lively entertainment, fitness demonstrations and interactive experiences
Hear from experts during a panel discussion with Q&A
Win raffles, prizes, and giveaways
Snack station for all
*Boxed lunches for first 150 attendees
All designed to help you stay active, informed, and engaged at every stage of life.
MAE CAIME FOUNDER, AMAEZING MIDLIFE & BEYOND AGENDA:
Register for this FREE event: Merrick.eventbrite.com or email rbamgbose@liherald.com or call 516.569.4000 x273
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 on 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, AUGUST 6, 2026
BEGINNING AT 6:00 P.M.
6:00 p.m.
1. Application #26135 Joseph and Tara Forcina, 226 Marcy Street, West Babylon, NY. Permission to diminish rear yard setback from 40' to 27.4'; increase total building area from 20% to 28.71% (over by 871 sq. ft.). All in connection with legally maintaining a rear yard deck with gazebo, above-ground pool, and one (1) shed. Property located on the south side of Marcy Street, 614.45' east of Lewis Avenue, West Babylon, NY.
SCTM#0100-1423-64
Zoning District: Residence B 6:05 p.m.
2. Application #26138 Brian Wittenberg, 513 Venetian Boulevard, Lindenhurst, NY.
Permission to increase total building area from 30% to 69.31% (over by 2,015.03); diminish distance to rear lot line from 2' to 0.3' (for shed); diminish distance to south side lot line from 2' to 0' (for concrete patio). All in connection with legally maintaining a
shed, decks and pavers. Property located on east side of Venetian Boulevard, 62.21' south of Pine Place, Lindenhurst, NY.
SCTM#0100-2281-81
Zoning District: Residence C 6:10 p.m.
3. Application #26142 Gisselle Genao, 87 North Emerson Avenue, Copiague, NY. Permission to diminish front yard setback at Manor Avenue from 30' to 21.90'; diminish side yard setback from 10' to 9.30'; diminish front yard setback at N. Emerson Avenue from 30' to 19.30' (for front portico). All in connection with a second-floor addition. Property located on the northwest corner of Manor Avenue and North Emerson Avenue, Copiague, NY.
SCTM#0100-1783-23
Zoning District: Residence C 6:15 p.m.
4. Application #26-139 Elite Prospect Training, Inc. (tenant)/ 171 Milbar Owner, LLC (prop. owner), 6581 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 155, Syosset, NY. Requesting a special exception permit to operate a place of amusement. All in connection with a portion of an existing building (previously approved for one (1) year, expired September 22, 2023). Property located on the northwest corner of Milbar Boulevard and New Highway, East Farmingdale, NY.
SCTM#0100-3-1-5
Zoning District: Industry G Subject Premises: 171 Milbar Boulevard, East Farmingdale, NY 6:20 p.m.
5. Application #26-144 Big Jules Dispensary (tenant)/ Route 112 Partners LP (prop. owner), 3400 4th Street, Oceans-
Public Notices — Your right to know
ide, NY. Requesting a special exception permit to operate a retail cannabis dispensary; diminish off street parking from twenty-one (21) stalls required to sixteen (16) stalls provided. All in connection with interior alterations to an existing building for a change of use to.
Property located on the south side of Long Island Avenue, 413.77' east of Commack Road, Deer Park, NY.
SCTM#0100-681-4
Zoning District: Industry G
Subject Premises: 1070 Long Island Avenue, Deer Park, NY 6:25 p.m.
6. Application #26132 Lyss's Pooch Pad LLC DBA Camp Bow Wow (tenant)/Wellwood 600 Associates, L.P. (prop. owner), 45 North Station Plaza, Suite 315, Great Neck, NY. Renewal of a special exception permit to operate a dog kennel with outdoor play area. Property located on the east side of Wellwood Avenue, 564.61' north of Spiegelhagen Avenue, Lindenhurst, NY.
SCTM#0100-2072-29
Zoning District: Business E
Subject Premises: 660 Wellwood Avenue, Unit 3, North Lindenhurst, NY 6:30 p.m.
7. Application #26-107 Wyandanch Realty 7 INC., 1145 Montauk Highway, Mastic, NY. Permission to diminish front yard setback at Garrison Avenue from 25' to 14.7' (for canopy). All in connection with the proposed construction of a one (1) story drive-thru restaurant. Property located on the northwest corner of Straight Path and Garrison Avenue, West Babylon, NY.
SCTM#0100-78-2-
58, 59, 60, 61
Zoning District:
Business E
Subject Premises: 1268, 1274 and 1276 Straight Path and 7 Garrison Avenue, West Babylon, NY 6:35 p.m.
8. Application #26143 Five Below, Inc. (tenant)/GRI (prop. owner), 7200 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 600, Bethesda, MD. Renewal of permission to increase sign height from 6' to 7' on west wall; increase sign height from 6' to 7' on south wall; increase number of signs per wall from one (1) to two (2) (on south wall); increase number of signs per wall from one (1) to two (2) (on west wall). All in connection with existing wall signs (previously approved for three (3) years, expires March 7, 2027). Property located on the southwest corner of Deer Park Avenue and Woods Road, North Babylon, NY.
SCTM#0100-1142-77.003
Zoning District: Business E
Subject Premises: 1200 Deer Park Avenue, North Babylon, NY
ALL PERSONS OR THEIR DULY APPOINTED REPRESENTATIVE MUSTAPPEAR 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 July 13, 2026 26-161. 7/22
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME
COURT
COUNTY OF Suffolk, U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, not in its Individual Capacity but Solely as Indenture Trustee of CIM Trust 2022NR1, Plaintiff, vs. Dominick Amorese a/k/a Dominick J. Amorese, as Possible Heir of the Estate of Dominick Amorese, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on February 3, 2025 and an Order Extending Sale Deadline and Other Relief duly entered on May 26, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on August 13, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 44 Lafayette Avenue, Amityville, NY 11701. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Amityville, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0101, Section 001.00, Block 03.00 and Lot 017.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $218,138.96 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #612025/2023.
Scott H. Siller, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 222278-2 26-154 7/15 22, 29, 8/5
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, July 28th, 2026. Public hearings begin 6:00pm. NEW APPLICATIONS:
• Linda & Timothy Pienkos
APMT-26-51 361 Wyona Ave Lindenhurst, NY 11757
SCTM#0100-227-1104
•George & Lucille Kalmbacher
APMT-26-9
690 Outlook Ave West Babylon, NY 11704
SCTM# 0100-141-5-84
Printing Instructions: RENEWALS BY AFFIDAVIT APPLICANTS, 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.
AAmityville Record: Wednesday, July 22nd, 2026 26-158 7/22
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, August 10th, 2026 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 2026, a local law to amend § 107-44 of the Village Code regarding the conspicuous posting of the company name and village decal on landscaping vehicles. By Order of the Board of Trustees Village of Amityville Catherine C. Murdock Village Clerk/Treasurer 7/22/26 2 x 26-159. 7/22, 29
NOTICE is hereby given that the PLANNING BOARD of the Village of Amityville will hold a Public Hearing in the Court Room of Village Hall, 21 Ireland Place, Amityville, NY at 6:00 P.M. on THURSDAY, August 6, 2026, to consider the following applications: Application of Harrison Lowe. Applicant seeks architectural review and approval for the proposed construction of a 34’ x 28’ detached 3-car garage pursuant to Section 24-6 A. (1) (h) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the East side of Bennett Place approximately 515 feet North of South Ireland Place in a "Residential A" District known as 72 Bennett Place a/k/a SCTM# 101-95-15.
Application of Jennifer Rice & Joseph Portela. Applicants seek architectural review and approval for the proposed construction
of a new one-family dwelling pursuant to Section 24-6 A. (1) (h) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the West side of Braham Avenue approximately 445 feet South of Shore Road in a "Residential B" District known as 41 Braham Avenue a/k/a SCTM# 101-134-6. By Order of the Planning Board, Village of Amityville Catherine Murdock, Clerk/Treasurer 26-160. 7/22. 29
631-360-0800 ext. 149 or send a resume to: cc@scopeonline.us SCOPE Education is an equal opportunity Employer
EDITOR/REPORTER
School Monitor (2 hours daily 11am - 1pm): $20.60 per hour • Substitute Teacher Aide: $20.60 per hour
letter of interest and resume to: humanresources@vs30.org 516-434-3600 ext 5223
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Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour
Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239
Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com
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 from $17 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com
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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 $35,360 + 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 $35,360 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
Luxury Home With Scenic Views
Breathtaking
Now we need a backflow-prevention device?
Q. We received a letter several weeks ago about yet another expense for our home, to add a backflow device because we have a sprinkler. We’re wondering if this is really necessary. We’ve had a sprinkler for 40 years, and have never had a problem. Can you explain why we need this, and what will happen if we don’t put one in? We got estimates that it could be $750 to $1,000. Is this somehow related to legionnaires’ disease?
A. Yes, you are now required to have a backflow device on your home water line, especially for the sprinkler connection. This became a safeguard, debated for many years, as a reaction to backsiphoning of plumbing lines when there were pressure changes.
The backflow prevention device is a one-way water valve that allows water to flow from the public water main into your home or sprinkler system, but not back into the public water supply. Pressure changes in the line can happen for several reasons, including flushing of public water pipes, which you are notified about, because people report the discoloration of their water from time to time. It can also happen when a fire hydrant is being used or when there’s a water main break.
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Any which way it happens, this is a real issue, even if you’ve never noticed it over the past 40 years. You wouldn’t necessarily be the consumer of the contaminants that flowed from your sprinkler line back into the public water supply, but let’s face it, sprinkler heads are exposed to animal waste, pesticides, fertilizers, soil, bacteria and standing water on a regular basis, and you wouldn’t want to drink any of these potentially sickening substances. You’d probably wonder what made you sick, but never connect the dots back to your drinking or cooking water.
I remember the uproar over seat belts in the 1960s, when we were first asked to wear those cumbersome and restrictive devices. Before that, we kids had the freedom to roam from window to window for a better view, to avoid the boredom of long family road trips or grocery store errands. Then seat belts became law. People were defiant, and some even survived accidents without seatbelts. We’ve now had two generations of youngsters who were strapped in like they were astronauts in a rocket sled, and it seems pretty standard now.
The time will come when the contaminants in our water lines will be avoided and we won’t give it another thought. As for legionnaires’ disease, there is little connection between the two. Legionnaires’ disease is mainly caused by stagnant water in a breeding ground of a dark holding tank, in temperatures between 77 and 113 degrees. Those old water tanks, sitting on top of buildings, feeding the drinking and domestic water through buildings by gravity, became perfect for bacterial growth.
Unless you have a well pump sprinkle your lawn, you must add the device — or possibly be fined and forced to do it anyway. Good luck
© 2026 Monte Leeper
Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
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opinions
Protecting our drinking water is a community effort
it’s the hottest time of year on Long Island, and high temperatures mean high water use. From June through September, demand for water surges, driven largely by lawn irrigation and outdoor use. Long Islanders love green lawns, but they come at a cost that many residents don’t fully see: added strain on our water infrastructure and increased stress on Long Island’s sole-source aquifer, the only source of drinking water for nearly 3 million people.
Long Island has no alternative water supply. We rely entirely on a vast but finite underground aquifer system that must meet all residential, commercial and public needs. That makes water conservation not just a seasonal suggestion, but a long-term necessity.
The latest findings from the Long Island Commission for Aquifer Protection underscore the urgency of the issue. According to LICAP’s 2025 State of the Aquifer report, groundwater levels have shown troubling declines in recent years, particularly following periods of below-average rainfall. As hydro-
logic conditions fluctuate, especially during dry spells, increased pumping to meet peak summer demand puts additional pressure on the aquifer. This is just as much an infrastructure challenge as it is an environmental concern. Every gallon of water that must be pumped, treated and delivered requires energy and infrastructure capacity. During the summer, water providers must operate at peak levels to keep up with demand. That accelerates wear and tear on pumps, wells, treatment systems and water mains, increasing maintenance costs and, ultimately, costs for ratepayers. Simply put, excessive water use today leads to higher costs tomorrow.
Actions taken by residents each day collectively have a profound impact.
ful difference. Following odd/even watering schedules helps distribute demand more evenly. Avoiding irrigation between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. reduces waste due to evaporation. Even skipping watering after rainfall can save thousands of gallons per household over the course of a season.
Conservation plays a significant role in mitigating all of these risks. Reducing unnecessary water use — particularly irrigation — can significantly ease the burden on both the aquifer and water providers’ infrastructure. Studies continue to show that lawns only require about one inch of water per week to remain healthy. Yet many residential irrigation systems run far more frequently than necessary, often during the hottest parts of the day, when much of that water is lost to evaporation. Simple changes can make a meaning-
Technology also plays an important role. Smart irrigation controllers, which adjust watering schedules based on realtime weather conditions, are among the most effective tools available, ensuring that landscapes receive only the water they need, helping homeowners save money while supporting broader conservation goals. They ultimately pay for themselves, often within only a couple of years. Some Long Island water providers have rebate programs for residents who make the switch to smart controllers, making them even more cost-effective.
As highlighted in the State of the Aquifer report, conservation works hand in hand with other efforts such as water reuse, source water protection and advanced monitoring to ensure the sustainability of our groundwater resources. These strategies are essential to maintaining the reliability of our water supply in the face of growing demand,
ever-evolving drinking water regulations and changing climate conditions. It’s also important to recognize that conservation is about more than quantity. Reducing excessive pumping helps maintain natural groundwater levels, which in turn supports streamflow and protects wetlands. It limits the risk of saltwater intrusion, which poses a significant threat to Long Island’s coastal communities. These environmental benefits are critical to preserving Long Island’s ecosystems and quality of life.
The responsibility of protecting our aquifer belongs to all of us. Water providers are investing heavily in infrastructure and treatment technologies and planning efforts to safeguard this resource. But they can’t do it alone. Actions taken by residents each day collectively have a profound impact.
This summer, we urge all Long Islanders to be mindful of their water use. Small changes, when adopted by millions of people, can yield significant results. By conserving water, we not only protect a vital natural resource, but also strengthen our infrastructure, stabilize costs and ensure that future generations of Long Islanders will have access to clean, reliable drinking water.
On Long Island, water isn’t just a utility. It is our lifeline, and we all need to do our part to protect it.
Brendan Warner is chairman of the Long Island Water Conference.
Let’s stop student debt from killing the American dream
For generations, the American dream has represented something tangible: the ability to build a stable life through hard work. But for millions in the United States who are burdened by student debt, the dream remains just that: a dream. Nowhere is that more evident than on Long Island, where the average resident carries more than $35,000 in student loan debt and the median home price has surpassed $750,000.
According to the Pew Research Center, one in four Americans under 40 has student debt. Between high interest rates and wages that haven’t kept pace with the cost of living, many borrowers spend decades trying to pay off an education that was supposed to create opportunity, not limit it.
ages 25 and 34 have left the region over the past eight years. Student debt and housing costs are inseparable drivers of that exodus.
Student debt makes the American dream unattainable, or, at best, greatly deferred. Gallup reports that 71 percent of student borrowers delay major life milestones — homeownership, parenthood, starting a business, retirement — because of their debt. On Long Island, those delays have a geographic consequence: 22 percent of residents between
Recent federal policy changes are deepening the problem. The elimination of the Saving on a Valuable Education Plan will push millions into significantly higher monthly payments, a serious hardship for families already stretched thin. For many, even a modest increase in monthly loan obligations can push financial stability out of reach. The answer is not to discourage higher education. A college degree remains one of the strongest predictors of lifetime earnings, and Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce projects that nearly 72 percent of jobs will require some form of postsecondary education by 2031. Low entry-level wages and high monthly loan payments, however, mean that too many Americans will face decades of financial strain.
We can’t keep asking young adults to choose between building a career and building a life.
That trade-off reshapes the labor market in ways that affect us all. Gallup
reports that 51 percent of employees with student debt are seeking new employment, and more than half of job seekers say their loan obligations significantly influence which offers they’ll accept. New graduates feel compelled to chase the highest-paying jobs rather than the professions they’re best suited to, creating workforce shortages in the fields our communities need most.
For Long Island employers, student debt is both a challenge and an opportunity. One of the few constructive developments in federal legislation is the permanent extension of tax-free employer contributions to employee student loans. Employers can contribute up to $5,250 annually toward an employee’s student debt with no federal tax burden for either party. Employers of all sizes can implement this support quickly and cost-effectively, strengthening recruitment, retention, and the financial well-being of their workforce.
New York is positioned to build on that progress. Paidly, a platform that empowers employers, borrowers, students and their families to make education affordable, has been working with state legislators to allow tax-free payroll
deductions for student loans and education savings plans. Combined with the existing federal benefit, New Yorkers could direct up to $8,750 annually in taxadvantaged student loan relief — a real and immediate impact for borrowers trying to pay down debt, save for a home or simply stay on Long Island. These solutions are practical, affordable and achievable. Being highly educated and highly skilled should not come with a lifetime sentence of debt. And the 22-year-old who graduates from Hofstra or Stony Brook or Nassau Community College should be able to imagine a future here instead of being forced to leave the moment the loans come due. New York has an opportunity to lead the nation in supporting our workers. By expanding taxadvantaged student loan assistance to the state level and encouraging employers to become part of the solution, we can restore financial stability for working families and make the American dream attainable for Long Islanders.
John Scully is the CEO of Paidly, and Samantha Park is the platform’s content specialist.
Amityville
RecoRd
CHARLES DELANO - Founder
Established 1904
Incorporating the Amityville Record in 2024
CAROLyN JAmES
Associate Publisher / Editor
Donna Consola
JessiCa Kleiman
Multi Media Marketing Consultants
offiCe
2 Endo Boulevard
Garden City, NY 11530
Phone: (516) 569-4000
Fax: (516) 569-4942
Web: www.liherald.com
E-mail: amityeditor@liherald.com
Copyright © 2026 Richner Communications, Inc.
HERALD
SGiving blood: the gift that cannot wait
ummer is a season many of us look forward to. Families head out on vacation, schools close for the year, community calendars lighten and many of the charitable drives and volunteer activities that fill the rest of the year take a brief pause.
Illness, accidents and medical emergencies, however, never take a vacation.
Every day, hospitals across Long Island and around the country rely on a steady supply of donated blood to care for trauma victims, cancer patients, premature infants, people undergoing surgery and those living with chronic blood disorders. When blood is needed, there is no time to wait for donors to come forward. The blood must already be on the shelves.
That’s why the emergency blood shortage announced by the American Red Cross should concern every one of us. The Red Cross reports that blood donations have fallen sharply since the end of May. That is not a problem that can be solved overnight.
Blood products have a limited shelf life. Red blood cells can be stored for only about six weeks, while platelets, which are critical for cancer patients and others undergoing treatment, last only a few days. A constant stream of volunteer donors is necessary simply to keep pace with everyday medical needs.
Unlike many products hospitals use, blood can’t be manufactured in a laboratory. It can’t be ordered from a factory or
letterS
Peter King is right about America’s leadership
To the Editor:
Re Peter King’s op-ed in last week’s issue, “America must not abdicate its leadership”: King is so right in his assessment. While I’m no expert on foreign affairs, I do think I have a unique perspective on the topic he addresses.
You see, my mother was born and raised in Germany, and was 16 when World War II broke out. My father’s parents were born in Germany, but in 1923 they moved to the United States for the very reason King points out: the Treaty of Versailles left Germany impoverished with little hope. So my father grew up here in New York, but as fate had it, my grandparents decided to move back to Germany in the late 1930s, because Germany was once again a prosperous country.
When the war broke out, my father was drafted into the German army — the Luftwaffe, as it turns out. It wasn’t until I was in college that he revealed this aspect of
substituted with another medicine. Every pint comes from a volunteer willing to spend less than an hour giving something that costs nothing but can mean everything to someone else.
It is one of the rare opportunities for an ordinary person to directly save a life.
Most blood donors never meet the people they help. Yet each donation has the potential to help a number of patients. A single donation can help save as many as three lives.
It’s easy to assume that someone else will donate — that someone younger, healthier or with more free time will answer the call. But maintaining an adequate blood supply depends on thousands of people making that same small commitment throughout the year, because the demand for blood remains constant.
If anything, summer brings additional challenges. Increased travel can mean more motor vehicle accidents. Outdoor recreation can result in serious injuries. Construction projects continue. Hospitals remain busy. Every one of those situations depends on blood being available.
Long Island residents and the business community have always demonstrated their generosity during times of crisis. For those who have donated before, now is an excellent time to schedule another appointment if they are eligible. For first-time donors, there may be some uncertainty, but the process is safe,
carefully supervised and generally takes about an hour from registration to refreshments afterward. Most donors say the experience is easier than they expected, and leave knowing they have made a meaningful difference.
Donors of all eight blood types — A+, A-, B+, B-, AB+, AB-, O+ and O- — are needed to rebuild the nation’s blood supply. While some blood types are used more frequently than others, every donation strengthens the system that hospitals depend on daily.
This isn’t simply about responding to an emergency declaration. It’s about recognizing that each of us may someday depend on the generosity of someone we’ve never met. Few people expect to need a blood transfusion until an accident, illness or unexpected surgery changes everything in an instant.
When that day comes, no family should have to wonder whether enough blood is available.
Make an appointment to donate blood. The Red Cross collects nationwide, but does not have facilities on Long Island, where New York Blood Centers and other agencies and organizations help meet the need. To learn where to donate, go to AABB.org, the Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies, to find an AABB-accredited donation facility.
A single hour you spend giving blood today could mean the difference between life and death for someone in need.
New York’s ‘dirty dozen’ laws make the state unaffordable
new York ranks among the most highly taxed states in America. Unaffordability continues to resonate as the state’s most pressing issue, which led to an exodus of over 400,000 people in 2024 alone. The way to reverse higher taxes is to identify the primary causes of the dramatic rise in spending over past decades and to promote legislation to reverse course. Our center’s white paper highlights the “dirty dozen” laws contributing to the affordability crisis:
1. Overtime beefing up pensions. Government workers put in extraordinary OT hours in their last years to inflate the base pay for their pensions. This pension escalator will cost taxpayers $50 billion to $80 billion over the next two decades. Workers also receive definedbenefit contributions, with taxpayers guaranteeing the same monthly payment regardless of stock market fluctuations, unlike private-sector definedcontribution systems, which rise or fall with the market.
2. Full coverage of health care benefits for many employees and retirees. Some public retirees contribute nothing to
Letters
their health care packages, and have their medigap and medicare Part B costs covered by taxpayers, resulting in a long-term obligation of $360 billion for public-sector health care in New York.
3. Mandatory arbitration that hikes police salaries to unsustainable levels. Annual pay for many veteran Suffolk police officers exceeds $225,000. Unions have no incentive to extend givebacks because they can always get favorable rulings from arbitrators.
t4. The Triborough Amendment for public employees provides step salary increases even after a contract expires, making negotiations difficult for management. A step may be 2 to 4 percent above the negotiated annual increase.
college tuition not just for working-class students, but for the upper middle as well. And free public-school lunches are now provided for the children of millionaires.
he dramatic rise in spending in recent decades needs to be reversed.
Pre-school programs, which have not shown a correlation in improving scores, continue to expand at alarming costs. New York City imposed a cap of 20 students per class, which is so expensive that it had to be delayed. And cost-efficient charter schools, which provide better student outcomes, have been capped in New York.
7. The expansion of the nonworking population and the Medicaid program. Government welfare programs have led to four in 10 eligible workers staying home instead of working. meanwhile, one in three New Yorkers is now on medicaid.
percent of their income at retirement, also tax-free. According to the Empire Center, in 2022, roughly 60 percent of firefighters who retired had disability pensions.
10. The Wicks Law requires the use of multiple contractors for plumbing, gas, ventilation and electrical work on public buildings with costs exceeding $500,000. According to a representative of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the law often adds 10 percent to cost estimates for city projects.
11. Illegal alien expenses. The state spent over $4 billion on caring for asylum seekers, while the city budgeted roughly $10 billion, from 2022 to 2026. Illegal immigrants obtain state health benefits through various sources. Those who reach age 65 are entitled to state medicaid coverage, while undocumented children get the Child Health Plus program, and pregnant undocumented women are eligible for prenatal care.
5. Retirement after 20 years of service. Taxpayers might pay four different people for one law enforcement position. When the original officer turns 82, taxpayers will be paying for his retirement and that of three others for that position.
6. Inefficient school spending. New York pays almost twice the national average per pupil — over $30,000 — yet is surpassed in student performance by about half of the other states. The state’s Excelsior program provides free
his life to me. He had always said he was an American soldier, which was believable, as he had no accent growing up in New York. And we lived in Queens, with many Jewish neighbors, and, understandably, he didn’t want this aspect of his past to get out to the neighbors.
So, the question I would always ask my parents was, how could a great country like Germany allow Nazism to happen? They would offer several reasons, including that in the beginning, most Germans thought Hitler was someone who would implode and eventually go away. And by the time they realized that he wasn’t going anywhere, it was too late. Besides, they were just trying to live their lives and recover from the restrictions of the Treaty of Versailles.
But the reason that can’t be ignored was appeasement — King’s central argument in his essay. Like it or not, the U.S. needs to maintain its global leadership as a deterrent to regimes whose goal it is to expand their borders against the will of all other nations. I’m troubled by the administration’s seeming lack of knowledge or respect for history, and how it somehow repeats itself.
I wish members of Congress would speak out more on this topic, and follow King’s advice publicly. While I agree that Europe must increase its defense spending, we need to maintain our role as “global policeman,” because no other country, in my opinion, has the credibility and military muscle to take on this role. Vladimir Putin is not someone who can be trusted. Why we have let him get this far is a reminder that appeasement does not work with evil minds.
WILLIAm FUESSLEr Wantagh
8. The scaffold law holds building owners liable for any workplace injury of a contracted worker. The mandate adds $785 million in unnecessary spending on the construction of buildings in the state.
9. Disability abuse allows an employee to sit at home, collecting up to 100 percent of his salary tax-exempt — more money than if he returned to work. retirees with accidental disability coverage will be eligible to receive 75
12. Sick day abuse. Under New York state’s retirement and Social Security Law, public employees receive credit for unused sick days at retirement, with payments sometimes amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Steve Levy is executive director of the Center for Cost Effective Government, a fiscally conservative think tank. He has served as Suffolk County executive, as an assemblyman, and as host of the podcast “On the Right Side.”
Framework by Tim Baker
At the Town of Hempstead’s America 250 Celebration, Dominick Critelli, 105, and Christopher Macchio performed.
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