Babylon Herald 04_23_2026

HERALD BaBylon

BEaCon

Also serving Babylon, Bay Shore, Copiague, Deer Park, Farmingdale, Lindenhurst, North Babylon, West Babylon, West Islip and Wyandanch

DPFD’s Hydrant Helpers recognized Page 5

BV swears in new fire chiefs

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com

The Village of Babylon Board of Trustees on April 14 swore in a new chief and assistant chiefs for the Babylon Fire Department before approving the 2026-27 budget in a divided vote.

William T. Sadousky was sworn in as fire chief, along with Assistant Chiefs Eric P. Price, first assistant chief; Tony C. Schultz, second assistant chief; and Alexander J. Weber, third assistant chief.

Mayor Mary Adams thanked outgoing Chief James P. Miga and former department leaders for their service.

“I would just like to take a minute to thank our existing ex-chiefs for their work, their guidance over the years, for every-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

West Islip cheer team wins national title at UCA National HS Championship

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com

The Lions Senior Rec Cheerleading Team of West Islip was named the 2026 national champion at the UCA National High School Cheerleading Championship, held Feb. 7-8 at ESPN’s Wide World of Sports complex in Florida.

The team, made up of girls ages 8 to 14 and formed in 2024, rebounded from a disappointing finish the previous season to capture the title.

Led by coaches Elizabeth Schlitt, Jamie D’Andrea and Cheryl Sesto, the team’s commitment extended beyond the gym. Schlitt said many of the athletes

gave up birthday parties, family gatherings and time with friends, and some even stepped away from positions on select varsity teams to remain with the Lions.

“From day one everyone locked in,” said Schlitt. “They were the most amazing human beings and has such passion and dedication.”

Schlitt added that it was rewarding to see the team’s effort pay off.

“This was our ‘redemption ride,’ I dubbed for them,” said D’Andrea.

D’Andrea recalled the challenges of the previous season, when illness disrupted the team’s performance.

“The flu hit, and it hit hard—

We were to the point where we were at practices wearing masks,” she said.

She described cheerleading as a demanding sport and said the team fell short of reaching the finals that season, but used the experience as motivation.

“But man did it give a fire in them for the following season,” she said. “They hit the pavement running and never looked back.”

Sesto said the team’s perseverance stood out.

“I’m just so proud of them,” said Sesto. “They always worked together and never gave up.”

Team member Gabby Sesto said the championship showed the value of their effort.

“It’s so special because we

worked so hard together, and to know that the work was worth it,” she said.

Teammates Avianna D’Andrea and Aubrey Schlitt also reflected on the turnaround after the previous season.

“A lot of people counted us out after last season, but we came into this year with redemption on our minds,” said Avianna D’Andrea. “Every weekend we pushed our-

selves harder in the gym, fixing the little things and building a routine we knew could win a national championship.”

She said the team’s mindset played a key role.

“We didn’t let fear take over— we trusted each other, trusted our coaches and believed in the work we were putting in,” she said. “When we finally hit that routine

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

Christie Leigh Babirad/Herald

Newly sworn in members of the Babylon Fire Department are shown with Babylon Village officials.

West Islip Lions Senior Rec squad earns redemption at UCA finals

at nationals, it was the best feeling because we knew we earned it together.”

Aubrey Schlitt described the victory as “unreal.”

“We all put so much work and dedication into the team to make this dream come true,” she said. “Everybody on this team came to every practice ready to give it their all no matter the circumstances—I wouldn’t have wanted to do this with anybody else and I’m so excited to see what this upcoming season brings.”

D’Andrea said the team’s determination set it apart.

“I can get emotional about it, but at such a young age these girls are learning life skills that are going to carry them through the hardest times of their lives,” she said. “We called them our ‘weekend warriors’— they practiced every weekend.”

Babylon Village Board approves budget in split vote

CONTINUED FROM COVER

thing that they have done for this village,” Adams said. “The sacrifices you made, time away from family, all that you have done for the Babylon Fire Department— Thank you,” she said.

Following the ceremony, trustees approved the village’s 2026-27 budget by a 4-1 vote.

The $15,307,313 budget represents an increase of approximately $731,000 over the current fiscal year. It will result in a tax rate increase of 4.97 percent, or 94 cents per

$100 of assessed value, raising the rate from $18.90 to $19.84. A home assessed at $5,000 currently pays about $945 in Village taxes annually; under the proposal, that figure would increase to approximately $992.

Trustee Jeffrey Szabo cast the lone vote against the measure saying he would like to see a “more collaborative and open process” taking place next year so that he can support the budget at that time.

“I take the responsibility that the public has bestowed in me with the utmost seriousness and I applaud the efforts of my fellow trustees and the mayor...I have the commitment of my fellow trustees...that we will establish a process to make sure that every dollar is spent wisely, responsibly and only when absolutely necessary.”

Adams thanked the trustees who supported the budget, saying it maintains services and amenities that are “enjoyed and expected” while helping sustain property values, infrastructure and the downtown.

dictated through New York State,” Adams said. “We did work extremely hard to keep the budget with the NYS tax cap, however, with increases in the items mentioned as well as the services and amenities that we all appreciate having might have had to suffer, not to mention, should there be an unanticipated situation or concern that needed attention.”

IN OTHER BUSINESS, THE BOARD:

• Granted permission to Jack Monteleone to hold an Adrenal Cancer Awareness Fundraiser at the gazebo on Aug. 9 from 3 to 8 p.m., with setup at 1 p.m. The event will include live music and a food truck. Approval is contingent on required insurance certificates and signed, notarized holdharmless agreements.

• Permitted the Babylon Village Arts Council to display three 24-by-36-inch temporary signs at village entrances promoting the Art by the Falls event from May 2 through May 17.

“As we all are experiencing rising costs everywhere, I can assure our Village residents that the Village itself has experienced increases with insurance, worker’s compensation, retirement and union employee increases—Those items which are

• Granted permission to Our Lady of Lourdes to hold a golf outing on June 15 beginning at 1 p.m., contingent on insurance and a notarized hold-harmless agreement. The next meeting is scheduled for April 28 at 8 p.m. at Village Hall, 153 W. Main St.

Kayak Open House May 2nd & 3rd

Get ready for the season at our Kayak Open House. Try kayaks, learn from experts, and explore paddling on Long Island.

• Guided on - water demos

• Paddling workshops for paddlers of all skill levels

Courtesy of Lions Senior Rec

In the photo, The Lions Senior Rec Cheerleading team: Top Row: Michele Musalo, Jaclyn Borgia, Mackenzie Faure, Jennalyn White, Giuliette Fileti, Avianna Dahlstedt, Aubrey Schlitt, Michael Scott, Amelia Chabere, Isabella Meir, Grace McClenahan, Gianna Meir, Audriana Restmeyer, Trey Griffin and Jaclyn Porter. Second Row from the top: Kylie Marcus, Mia D’Andrea, Jamie D’Andrea, Gabby Sesto, Addison Green, Mattingly Cahill, Bria Martin, Emma Blask, Layla Agostini, Rylee O’Brien, Joanna Faulkner, Avianna D’Andrea, Jenna Spano, Adriana Iacopelli, Elizabeth Schlitt, Cheryl Sesto, and Jamie Alpi. Third row from the top: Allyson Sesto, Alivia Musalo, Deanna Evangelist, Skylar Borgia, Hayley Gauger, Isabella Tatta, Isabella Cappellino, Isabella Verderosa and Giuliana Vetere. Bottom Row: Daniela Dumitru, Adalyn Fitzsimons, Julianna Porter, Harley Kane, Kayleigh Johnston, Briella Flood, Alana Alpi and Maddison Hurley

Freeze-thaw cycle drove up snow removal costs and is hiking road repair expenses across Long Island

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherld.com

The days may be getting longer and temperatures warmer, but Long Island municipalities are still reckoning with the financial fallout from this winter’s snow removal and road maintenance costs—expenses that, in many cases, have far exceeded budget projections.

Across Nassau and Suffolk counties, public works departments report that repeated freeze-thaw cycles and multiple storms significantly increased both operating costs and infrastructure damage.

In Massapequa Park, officials estimate snow removal costs more than doubled, rising from about $95,000 last year to $230,000 this year. Pothole repair costs also ticked upward, from $8,300 to more than $10,000.

At the Town of Oyster Bay, officials said snow removal costs climbed from $1.249 million last year to more than $2.35 million this year.

In Suffolk, Babylon Town reported a 113% increase, with costs rising from $581,000 to a projected $1.42 million.

Amityville Village saw even sharper jumps: snow-related costs totaled $30,434 in

2023–24, then rose to $38,000 the following year before surging to approximately $128,000 this winter. Overtime alone jumped from $29,300 to $111,402.

In Babylon Village, snow-related spending increased from $38,000 in 2023–24 to $49,852 in 2024–25, with an estimated $170,000 expected this year, not including roughly $2,700 in asphalt for pothole repairs.

Officials say snow removal remains one of the costliest seasonal obligations for municipalities, driven by labor, overtime, salt and brine, fuel, and equipment wear. Rapidly occurring storms and freeze-thaw conditions further strain resources, often forcing emergency purchases and reallocations from other infrastructure accounts.

Meanwhile with winter behind them, officials say the focus now turns to repairing roadways and absorbing the lingering costs of a season that continues to stretch municipal budgets.

In Suffolk County officials are asking for the public’s help in reporting serious road conditions by having them call Suffolk 311 where dispatchers are available during the day to connect them to county services and intake road maintenance requests. They can also go online to: suffolk.my.site.com/

SCWA funds PFAS research with Stony Brook

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherld.com

The Suffolk County Water Authority has launched a new research fund to improve drinking water treatment and lower costs, awarding its first grant to Stony Brook University.

The funding will support a study on removing PFAS — harmful chemicals found in some water supplies — using new materials made from waste products like oyster shells, bamboo and wood.

“I’m really excited about using the funds for this most important purpose,” said Jeff Szabo, chief executive of the Suffolk County Water Authority. “The Authority has a long history of being at the forefront of developing innovative treatment.” I’m glad to continue that moving forward.”

The project will test whether these materials can replace the carbon currently used in water filters. Right now, the authority spends about $90,000 each time it replaces carbon in a single treatment system. With more than 200 systems in use, the cost adds up quickly.

Officials said finding a cheaper, locally sourced material could reduce those costs while maintaining water quality.

public/s/

“In minutes, callers can complete a request and alert DPW of potholes, road defects, tree maintenance and more,” said S.C. Exec. Ed Romaine. “Suffolk County DPW estimates a five-day response time from the moment of submission.”

In Nassau County, residents can call the Nassau County Department of Public Works at 516 571-6900 or go online to https:// www.nassaucountyny.gov/3449/ Department-Overview

“This fund ensures SCWA remains at the cutting edge of the industry,” said Charlie Lefkowitz, the authority’s chairman. “Investing in local research provides cost-effective solutions without burdening ratepayers.”

The first phase of the project is expected to cost about $220,000. The water authority is contributing $60,000, with Suffolk County covering the rest.

“Developing sustainable, locally sourced materials for PFAS removal is a critical scientific challenge, and we are thrilled to collaborate with SCWA to tackle it,” said Dr. Christopher Gobler, director of the Stony Brook Center for Clean Water Technology.

“By repurposing waste products like bamboo, wood and oyster shells into highly effective biochar, this project has the potential to transform water treatment.”

“Testing materials like oyster shells and other waste materials keeps SCWA ahead of the curve in water treatment innovation,” said Tim Kilcommons, the authority’s chief engineer and director of research and development. “A successful pilot could reduce our carbon change-out costs and maintain our high-water quality standards.”

Officials said the research fund is paid for through a private partnership program, not customer water bills.

Second grade performers dive into ‘Finding Nemo’ at May Moore Primary School

The Music Club at Deer Park’s May Moore Primary School recently presented a charming “Finding Nemo,” directed by Kristen Lombardo. The talented cast of second graders included Anthony D’Elia as Nemo, Henry Shimow as Marlin, Emma Marcano as Dory, Vedika Thoppil as Professor Ray, R. J. Mansibang as Bruce, Stella Serra as Chum, Ava LaBarca as Anchor, Aria Billig as Crush and Olivia Welch as Squirt. To prepare for the production, the students had rehearsed twice weekly for an hour beginning in the first week of January.

“It amazes me each year that students so young can memorize so many lines and songs,” Lombardo said. “It is the first opportunity for students to be a part of our wellestablished theater program in Deer Park, and a chance for me to teach them the foundations of theater and expose them to what it is like to be on the stage. The best part is that they have so much fun and feel so much pride in their work.”

Courtesy Deer Park school district

The Music Club at Deer Park’s May Moore Primary School recently presented a charming “Finding Nemo.”

The following incidents have been reported by the Suffolk County Police Department’s First and Third precincts and other law enforcement and emergency service units:

PETIT LARCENY

West Babylon: Someone broke into a 2017 Lexus SUV that was parked in the lot of Planet Fitness, on Montauk Highway April 9. The subject or subjects broke a window and took a purse that was inside the vehicle. The purse contained the owner’s driver’s license and credit cards. That incident was reported at 11 p.m.

Deer Park: Someone went into Home Depot on Commack Road April 9, took a thermostat from the shelf and left the store without paying for the item. That occurred at approximately 3:40. p.m. North Amityville: Three cans of motor oil were removed from the shelf at 7-Eleven on Broadway April 9 by a subject who left the store without paying for them. The incident was reported at 2 p.m.

North Babylon: an assortment of groceries, valued at $75, were reported stolen from Uncle Giuseppe’s on Deer Park Avenue. Police said the items included lasagna and crab meat. That incident was reported at 3:30 p.m., April 7.

BURGLARY

Lindenhurst: Suffolk County Police arrested three minors and charged them

CRIME WATCH

with burglary. Police said they broke a door to gain entry to the Plus Convenience & Smoke store at 180 West Sunrise Highway shortly after 5 a.m., April 9. Once inside, police said they took an assortment of nicotine vapes.

GRAND LARCENY

Deer Park: An unknown individual walked into Ann Taylor Factory shop in The Arches April 6 and stole approximately $1,700 in clothing. The theft was reported at 6:25 p.m.

Babylon: A 2026 Land Rover was stolen from in front of a home on Peninsula Drive April 5 and reported missing at 7:55 a.m.

ARRESTS

Driving While Intoxicated/Impaired:

Rodrigo Martinez Turcios, 23, of 63 Pear St., Brentwood; Erick Martinez Turcios, 21, of 240 Saint Johns St., Central Islip; Perris Johnson, 42, of 26 E. Poplar St., Central Islip; Selvin Marquez, 24, 59 Saint Peters Dr., Brentwood; Lusvin Najera, 19, of 220 Old Country Rd., Deer Park; Anthony Gelormino, 35, of 654 S. Wellwood Ave., Lindenhurst; Iurii Romaniuk, 29, of 140 Abbington Ct., Copiague; Ayendi Rodriguez Vasquez, 30, of 6 Scudder Ave., Copiague Richard Bacon, 65, of 674 Centerwood St., West Babylon; David Ventura, 47, of 159 Copiague Pl., Copiague; Brittany Wright, 32, of 58 Poplar Rd., North Amityville; Gregory Fox, 31, of 22 Blue Grass La., Commack;

Self Help/Crisis Hotlines

Food Pantry/Clothing Closet

Offered by Hands Across Long Island, Inc. (HALI), Food Pantry and Clothing Closet work together to alleviate hunger, address food insecurity, and fulfill the basic need for clothing within the surrounding community. By offering a diverse selection of food items and clothing options, we support individuals and families facing economic challenges while promoting dignity, sustainability, and community support in times of adversity. For more information, go to: www.hali88. org or call 631-234-1925. HALI is at 159 Brightside Ave., Central Islip.

Response 24/7 Crisis Hotline

The Response crisis intervention/ referral hotline is open every day of the year, day and night, including holidays. Professionally trained and supervised counselors offer callers telephone support and help them to explore options that allow them to think through their next steps. This counseling helps callers lower their anxiety and find their own solutions. Crisis counselors also provide referrals for support groups, clinicians, mental health clinics, other hotlines and a host of other community programs and services. Response Hotline is available 24/7 at (631) 751-7500.

Residential Program:

Beacon House - Short-term, longterm and transitional housing is provided throughout Long Island in 58 group homes, emergency shelters, and

Daniel Rodriguez, 36, of 320 Paumanake Ave., West Islip; Robbery

Wendy Rodriguez Gonzalez, 25, of 279 28 St., Copiague.

Burglary

Grandon Davis, 18, of 292 Parkway Blvd., Wyandanch.

Petit Larceny

Katherine Stasys, 45, of 30 Sycamore St., North Patchogue; Michael Snow, 61, of 28 Jetmore Pl., Massapequa; Moloy Graham, 34, of 11 South 7th St., Mt. Vernon, Westchester; Jonel Nunez, 23, of 160 Warwick Ave., Copiague; Jhon Vivas Campuzano, 31, of 21 Millpond La., Bay Shore; Christina Pernell, 37, of 7 Beech St., Wyandanch; Jessica Calkins, 33, of 151 Burrs La., Dix Hills; Miriam Kings-

berry, 36, of 341 Westchester Ave., West Babylon; William Filippi, 38, undomiciled; Evelyn Toloza, 35, of 1064 Tooker Ave., West Babylon;

Resisting Arrest Isabel Woodward, 622 Broadway, North Amityville (also charged with Petit Larceny).

Allowing minors to consume alcohol Vilma Mejia, 45, of 69 Story Ave., Central Islip was charged with allowing underaged individuals. With drinking alcohol at her home.

Public Lewdness Nico Luppino, 33, of 126 N. Park Ave., Rockville Center.

Assault Frank Puglisi, 55, of 264Livingston Ave., Babylon.

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.

Copiague driver charged after car injures woman in Lindenhurst

Suffolk County police arrested a Copiague man for driving with a revoked license after he was involved in a crash that seriously injured an elderly pedestrian Wednesday, April 15, police said.

select single-family residences. Those eligible include homeless veterans, veterans with families, veterans and non-veterans with substance abuse and mental health issues, women in need of supportive housing, and those living with HIV/AIDS. Every veteran resident has access to intensive case management, transportation and daily living essentials. Services are made possible through funding from NYS OTDA, Veteran Administration, HUD, and Suffolk County. For assistance, call 631 665-1571.

Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation

•LICADD substance abuse 24-hour hotline: 631-979-1700; licadd.org

•DASH: 631-952-3333; fsl-li.org/helpservices/diagnosis-assessment-andstabilization-hub-dash

•Talbot House: 24-hr. substance abuse crisis center: 631-589-4144; catholiccharities.cc/our-services/ chemical-dependence

•Response Crisis Center, suicide prevention, 631-751-7500; responsecrisiscenter.org

•VIBS: Domestic violence, sexual assault, 24-hour hotline, 631-360-3606; vibs.org 24/7 Emergency Hotlines

•N.C. Drug & Alcohol Hotline: 516227-8255

• LI Crisis Center: 516-679-1111

• Response Crisis Center: 631-7517500

• S.C. Drug & alcohol hotline: 631979-1700

Police said Frederick Finger was driving a 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander on and attempted to make a left turn onto eastbound Montauk Highway from South Strong Avenue. His vehicle struck a pedestrian who was crossing Montauk Highway from south to north at 7:36 a.m.

The pedestrian, Rose Marie Schementi, 85, of Lindenhurst, was taken to Good Samaritan University Hospital in West Islip, where she was admitted with serious injuries. Finger, 74, was charged with third-degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. He was issued a desk appearance ticket and will appear in court at a later date. Detectives are asking anyone with information about the crash to call the First Squad at (631) 854-8152.

Annual Emergency Preparedness

Day/ Touch a Truck Event, April 25

National PrepareAthon Day and TouchA-Truck Event will be taking place on April 25 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Town of Babylon Municipal Lot in Wyandanch. The event will include Touch-A-Truck, meeting local heroes, safety demons and activities. There will also be a free bikes

and scooters giveaway while supplies last.

The Town of Babylon Municipal Parking Lot is located at S. 18th St. and Long Island Avenue in Wyandanch. For more information, please call (631) 957-4292.

WEB SITE:

Deer Park Fire Department honors its Hydrant Helpers

During the March 23 snowstorm, the Deer Park Fire Department reached out to the community and asked that residents check to make sure the fire hydrants in front of their homes were shoveled out. Many youngsters responded, providing photos of themselves in front of the snowcleared hydrants.

Deer Park Fire officials deemed them “Hydrant Heroes” and recently recognized them for their efforts.

“It was great to get involved and help make sure that if a house goes on fire the firefighters can get water,” said Arianna Luppy, one of the Hydrant Heroes. “Without water, the fire does not go out.”

“We were shoveling out our driveway when I heard about it (the importance of clearing snow away from fire hydrants)” said Leo Jara, 11. “This was about helping the community and our neighbors.”

“It is always important to get young people involved,” said Deer Park Fire Chief Robert Macaluso. “These could be our volunteers in the future.”

In addition, the Mangano Funeral home recognized their efforts by giving them gift certificates.

Carolyn James/Herald

Shown in photo at the event are Rosaria Luppy with Giovanna, Arianna and Nicholas Luppy, Peter Kampf, Jana Morace, Leo Jara and Melissa Jara, Sal Mangano, of Mangano Funeral Home, Deer Park and Deer Park Fire Chief Robert Macaluso.

Copiague (5-2) battles through adversity

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

Copiague’s flag football team has experienced both the highs and challenges of a developing season, showcasing resilience as it navigates injuries and a shifting lineup under head coach Phil Fortuno.

The Eagles opened the year in dominant fashion, racing out to a 5-0 record and quickly establishing themselves as a team to watch. Their early season success included a 20-0 shutout victory over Amityville on March 19, followed by decisive wins against Wyandanch (27-6) and Lindenhurst (27-12). They continued their strong play with a narrow but impressive 6-0 defensive battle against Sachem North on April 1, before edging Kings Park 28-25 in a thrilling contest on April 4.

However, momentum shifted as the team encountered adversity. Copiague has dropped its last two games, suffering consecutive shutout losses to Whitman (19-0) on April 8 and Ward Melville (24-0) five days later.

Despite the setbacks, their overall record stands at 5-2, with a 2-2 mark in league play, keeping postseason aspirations within reach.

“Going into the season we were looking for some growth,” Fortuno said. “We have a mixture of young players with experienced players, including five middle schoolers. We believe we can be a playoff team.”

Injuries have played a significant role in the Eagles’ recent struggles. Senior captain Amaya McFadden, a dual-threat quarterback who had been instrumental in the fast start, is currently sidelined. McFadden, who has committed to SUNY Old Westbury, had developed into a dynamic leader before her injury. The team also lost senior running back Kerah McHugh for the season. McHugh was coming off a standout campaign in which she rushed for 800 yards and scored 10 touchdowns, leaving a significant void in the offense.

Still, Copiague has found ways to adapt. Senior captain Allison Ramirez has embodied the team’s gritty identity, contributing wherever needed and providing leadership

HERALD SPORTS West Babylon off to promising start

on both sides of the ball. Sophomore Gianna Thomas has emerged as a defensive standout, leading the team in flag grabs while also recording three interceptions. She has begun to take on a larger offensive role as well, adding a receiving touchdown.

The Eagles’ future is particularly promising thanks to a group of talented eighth graders stepping into key roles. Gianna Lewis has shown remarkable versatility, contributing eight interceptions, six receiving touchdowns, and two rushing scores despite playing out of position at quarterback. Fredricka Cooper has taken over as the new starting quarterback, bringing athleticism and composure, while also contributing four receiving touchdowns. Layla Rogers continues to develop, dedicating herself to studying film and finding ways to make an impact.

Senior captain Ja’Nyah Martin has also been a key contributor, ranking fourth on the team in flag grabs and third in receiving touchdowns, while offering additional versatility at quarterback.

While the Eagles have stumbled recently, their early success and ability to adapt suggest a team still capable of making noise as the season progresses.

“Dealing with the injury bug, but we’ve done a nice job staying together and fighting through it,” Fortuno said. “It’s been nice to see players move around to different positions and step up.”

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

West Babylon baseball is off to a strong and competitive start, posting a 6-3 record through its first nine League 4 games under coach Shaun Kaminski.

With a veteran heavy roster and a mix of emerging young talent, the team is already showing signs of both consistency and growth as it eyes a return to the postseason.

“The goal is to make the playoffs after making it four years in a row,” Kaminski said, emphasizing the program’s standard of sustained success.

With 13 seniors leading the way, expectations are naturally high. Early on, those expectations have evolved into something even bigger. “Over the first two weeks, we’ve grown some championship aspirations,” he added.

West Babylon opened with an exciting three game set against West Islip. A 17-7 victory on March 26 showcased the offense at its best, with Vinny Iorio, Tylan Edwards, Mason Martinez, and Timmy Erwig each going 2-for-4. The momentum carried into a tight 4-3 win two days later before West Islip handed them a narrow 5-2 loss on March 30.

The offense erupted again in a dominant sweep of Bellport in April. West Babylon won 16-0 on April 7 behind a perfect 3-for-3 performance from Dean Geiger, who also drove in three runs. Xavier Estevez (2-for-3) and Steve Gervasi added to the offensive outburst. The following day, the team secured a 15-5 win, with Erwig, Iorio, and Gervasi each recording two hits. The series concluded with a 9-1 victory on April 10, further establishing West Babylon as a dangerous lineup.

More recently, the team faced a tough test against East Islip, dropping close games 4-3 and 5-0 on April 14 and 15 before winning the series finale 11-2 on April 17. Despite losing two out of three games, Kaminski views matchups like these as valuable opportunities. “Playing East Islip is a great test for our guys,” he said.

Leadership for West Babylon is spread throughout the roster, as the team does not designate captains. Instead, experienced players have naturally taken on key roles.

had a walk-off hopmer

Erwig, a three year starter, continues to improve each season, while shortstop Gervasi, an All-League selection last year and a Staten Island commit, anchors the infield. Pitcher Matt Critchly, also a three year starter, is committed to Maritime and provides stability on the mound.

Other contributors include Nico Milani and Josh Gomez, another pitcher, along with catcher Dylan Cousins, who has been particularly effective behind the plate with his framing skills. Iorio, now transitioned from left field to center field, has embraced his role as the leadoff hitter and is committed to Mount St. Mary’s.

The future is also bright, with younger players already making an impact. Estevez, a sophomore, has built on his varsity experience from last year, while Jadiel Adames has been swinging the bat well. Geiger, a hard throwing lefty, adds another dimension to the pitching staff.

Perhaps the most exciting moment of the season came from eighth- grader Martinez, who delivered a walk-off home run against West Islip March 28.

“A lot of guys were young when we won the Long Island championship [in 2023] so they saw that and want to replicate it.”

Sheryl Amorosino/Herald Mason Martinez

in the Eagles’ 4-3 win over West Islip March 28.

Tony Bellissimo/Herald Gianna Lewis, left, has done it all on both sides of the ball for the Eagles, who won five of their first seven.

Lindenhurst Village celebrates Arbor Day with a little help from its friends

The Village of Lindenhurst celebrated Arbor Day with the help of students from the Lindenhurst School District by planting a new tree at the Meridale Park Triangle.

Students joined Village representatives in planting an Eastern Redbud tree, a species native to Long Island known for its vibrant spring blooms and environmental benefits. Eastern Redbuds support local ecosystems by providing food for pollinators, improving soil health,

and enhancing the beauty of community green spaces.

This hands-on event gave students the opportunity to learn about the importance of environmental stewardship while making a lasting contribution to their community.

The Village extends its sincere thanks to Keith Arco and Al Lopez of the Village’s Horticulture Department for their guidance and assistance in making this Arbor Day celebration a success.

Annual Emergency Preparedness Day

National PrepareAthon Day and Touch-A-Truck Event will be taking place on April 25 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Town of Babylon Municipal Lot in Wyandanch.

The event will include Touch-A-Truck, meeting local heroes, safety demons and

activities. There will also be a free bikes and scooters giveaway while supplies last.

The Town of Babylon Municipal Parking Lot is located at S. 18th St. and Long Island Avenue in Wyandanch.

For more information, please call (631) 957-4292.

Youth Golf Camp registration

There will be in-person registration only for the Babylon Village E. Donald Conroy Golf Course Youth Golf Camp on April 25 at the Village Hall from 9 a.m. to noon.

Each camp session will run for one week, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to noon, and there will be only 12 campers permitted per week to ensure

proper attention is provided to learn the necessary skills.

Payment via cash or check must accompany registration form and waiver with original signature.

Please note that this camp is for Babylon Village residents only.

To register, please email bvrec11702@ gmail.com to request the registration form.

Staged reading and dinner benefit

Sgt. John Sardiello Post 1634 of the American Legion will be presenting a staged reading of Two Cents by Long Island playwright Amy Nicole and will also be holding a dinner benefit on April 26 at 10 Bruce St., West Babylon.

“Two Cents” tells the story of a young woman set out to find answers to her past when she encounters a homeless veteran trying to find his way home.

Tickets are $30 and all proceeds will benefit the Trustee Building Fund of Sgt. John Sardiello Post 1634.

Dinner will be served at 2 p.m. and the play reading will begin at 3:30 p.m.

To purchase tickets, please visit zeffy.com/en-us/ticketing/americanlegion-post-1634-event-tickets.

For additional information, email secretary.post1634@gmail.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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.

SUNDAY, APRIL 26

•“My Betsey” The Remarkable Wife of Alexander Hamilton: 2 p.m., at the Babylon Village Historical Museum, 117 W. Main St., Babylon Village. Elizabeth Schuyler and Alexander Hamilton came from widely different family backgrounds, yet their marriage was a great success. Included in this talk are their eight children; her reaction to his affair with Maria Reynolds; his fatal duel with Aaron Burr in 1804. She lived for 50 more years as a widow salvaging the reputation of her distinguished husband and working on behalf of orphans and public education in New York. Presented by Elizabeth Kahn Kaplan. Free for BVHS Members, $5 for non-members. For more information, call the museum @ 631-6691756.

TUESDAY, APRIL 28

•Village of Babylon Board of Trustees meeting: 7 p.m. (work session); 8 p.m. (regular meeting); Village Hall, 153 W. Main St., Babylon. For additional meeting information, call 631-669-1500; or email: info@villageofbabylonny.gov; or visit the web site @https://www.villageofbabylonny.gov.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29

•Town of Babylon Town Board meeting: 3 p.m., Town Board Room, 200 E. Sunrise Hwy., Lindenhurst. For additional information, call 631-957-3100.

THURSDAY, APRIL 30

•Village of Babylon Planning Board: 7:30 p.m. @ Village Hall, 153 W. Main St., Babylon. For additional meeting information, call 631-669-1500; or email info@ villageofbabylonny.gov, or visit the web site @https://www.villageofbabylonny. gov.

Calendar items are printed for non-profit organizations, as space permits, or when an event, service or information is being sponsored by a profit-making organization without charge to readers. Submit items to us at Richner Communications, attn: Beacon Editor, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530; or email: dconsola@liherald.com at least two - three weeks prior to the publication date in which the item must appear. Sorry, but open-ended requests without the specific dates of the events are not acceptable. While we make every attempt to accommodate each request, we cannot guarantee publication of any items. For more information, call 516-569-4000.

NYS Parks return of Summer Run Series, 8-race lineup set for June–August

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation has announced the return of its annual Summer Run Series, an eight-race program scheduled to take place Monday evenings from June 8 through August 10, 2026.

Participation will be capped at 4,000 runners, and advance registration is required through elitefeats.com/26srs. Registration is divided into two tiers. Tier 1 includes all eight races and is limited to 2,500 runners at a cost of $100 per registrant. Online registration is now open.

Tier 2 and wheelchair-accessible registration is limited to 1,500 runners at a cost of $75 per registrant. Tier 2 participants will compete in four designated events: the Heckscher 5-mile (June 8), Sunken Meadow 10K (June 15), Heckscher 5K (August 3), and Jones Beach 5-mile (August 10). Wheelchair-accessible athletes will also participate in four races, including Heckscher 5-mile (June 8), Caumsett 5K (July 13), Heckscher 5K (August 3), and Jones Beach 5-mile (August 10). Registration for Tier 2 opens

Wednesday, April 15 at 6 a.m. on a firstcome, first-served basis.

All races will be held on Monday nights at 7 p.m. at various Long Island State Parks, beginning June 8 at Heckscher State Park with a 5-mile race. The series continues June 15 at Sunken Meadow (10K), June 22 at Belmont Lake (5K), July 13 at Caumsett State Park (5K), July 20 at Robert Moses (1-mile beach run), July 27 at Hempstead Lake (5K), August 3 at Heckscher (5K), and concludes August 10 at Jones Beach (5-mile).

The Summer Run Series is sponsored by the Natural Heritage Trust, Foundation for Long Island State Parks, 106.1 WBLI, 102.3 WBAB, Runners Edge, FourLeaf Federal Credit Union, Boening Brothers, Performax Physical Therapy and Wellness, New York Cancer & Blood Specialists, Newsday, and WildPlay Elements Park at Jones Beach.

Officials said proceeds from the series will support future New York State Parks programming.

For additional information, contact the Regional Recreation Department at 631-321-3510.

Deer Park football hosts Commitment Day

Incoming high school players sign on with Falcons program

Deer Park High School’s football program welcomed the next generation of players at its second annual Commitment Day on March 24.

The event brought Robert Frost Middle School eighth graders who plan to continue playing football at Deer Park into the high school’s chorus room, where they met varsity and junior varsity coaches and learned about team expectations and rules.

Students received varsity jerseys for the day and took part in a growing tradition — signing commitment letters to pledge their dedication to the Falcons football program. The event offered an early opportunity for players to connect with the team and begin their transition to high school athletics.

“Commitment Day is an event the varsity staff looks forward to each year,” head coach Cody Ciolino said. “While much of the focus is often on the varsity team, this is a chance to step back and look ahead to the future of our program. We are very excited about this eighth-grade class. They have already shown their dedication by attending offseason workouts and team practices.”

Deer Park will open its season at home on Sept. 10 against Centereach.

THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH OF BABYLON

Corner of Deer Park Avenue and James Street in the Village of Babylon, 631-661-5151

Website: babylonumc.org

Pastor: The Rev. Melissa Boyer

SUNDAY SERVICES

9:30am - Worship in the Church Online at Website - 9:30am

Home of the James Street Players and the UMC Nursery School Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors

For Information on Advertising here, please call Ellen Reynolds at 516-569-4000 x286.

Town of Babylon Italian Food Festival, May 16

The Town of Babylon will be hosting their annual Italian Food Festival on May 16 from noon to 5 p.m. on the Great Lawn at Town Hall. In the case of inclement weather, the event will be rescheduled for the following day, May 17.

The event will feature food vendors, a kid zone, La Famiglia Cadillac Club and entertainment including Angelo Venuto, Maria Venuto, Carmelo Raccuglia and DJ Domenick.

Please bring a pasta or sauce donation to support Councilman Manetta’s 8th Annual “Pasta and Sauce Food Drive.”

Additional parking with free shuttle bus service will be available at the Lindenhurst Train Station.

The Great Lawn at Town Hall is located at 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst.

For more information, please call (631) 957-4482.

Courtesy Deer Park school district

Deer Park High School’s football program hosted its second annual Commitment Day for Robert Frost Middle School eighth graders who plan to continue their football careers at the high school level.

HERALD RECORD

HERALD NEIGHBORS

Farmingdale Playcrafters stage ‘Tuck Everlasting’ with immersive design, sold-out demand

Adventure, family, and the concept of time took center stage as the Farmingdale Playcrafters presented Tuck Everlasting, a production based on the novel by Natalie Babbitt and the 2016 Broadway musical adaptation. The show explored themes of mortality, choice, and the bittersweet nature of living fully.

To deepen audience engagement, the production utilized thrust seating, placing audience members on three sides of the stage. The design created an intimate viewing experience that brought patrons directly into the story’s setting in the woods of Treegap. Due to the limited seating capacity, performances sold out within 30 minutes of release.

In response to high demand, the district added a special preview performance on March 5, 2026. That same day, the cast also performed a daytime matinee for theater students from Howitt Middle School, offering younger performers an opportunity to experience a high school production from a professional vantage point and strengthening connections between the school communities.

Directed by Glen J. Beck, the production centered on a unifying concept described as “The Visual Language of Time,” contrasting the Tuck family—unchanging and “stuck” in time—with Winnie Foster, who represents growth and transformation.

“This production holds a special place in the history of Playcrafters,” Beck said. “For the first time, our current advi-

sors—Ms. Mischke, Ms. Capasso, and I—have had the opportunity to work side by side on a single production. This collaboration has united the club in a way that mirrors the show’s central theme: the importance of the families we are born into and the ones we choose.”

The cast featured Cassie Hill as Winnie Foster; Devin Williams as Jesse Tuck; William Herbert as Miles Tuck; Sofia Grago and Nicholas Suwalski as Mae and Angus Tuck; Jesse Arcuri as the Man in the Yellow Suit; and Gabbi Martinez and Angel Hernandez as Constable Joe and Hugo. The production also included a ballet sequence, “The Story of Winnie Foster,” choreographed by Layla Tarello and featuring Keira Hayden as Teenage Winnie and Tarello as Older Winnie.

The production team highlighted contributions from scenic designer Jamie Capasso, musical director Jessica Mischke, wig designer Erika Wells, and technical supervision by Joseph Hassett, overseeing lighting and sound.

A special matinee on March 7 at 1 p.m. featured swing performers Sofia Lambright (Winnie), Lea Fredonis (Mae), and Chris Cruciata (Miles), who stepped into lead roles.

Blending imaginative staging with existential themes, the Farmingdale Playcrafters’ Tuck Everlasting invited audiences to reflect on a central question posed by the story: if given the choice, would one choose to live forever?

Photos courtesy of the Farmingdale school district

By Christie Leigh Babirad

Russell Hurd Jr.

5 years old, North Babylon MGV UPK program

My favorite rainy day activity is painting and coloring a picture!

Photo: Courtesy Hurd Family

What is the best rainy day activity when April showers hit?

Lucas Miller

6 years old, West Babylon Chestnut Hill Elementary I like to play my Nintendo Switch on rainy days.

Photo: Christie Leigh Babirad/Herald

Cheryl Williams

North Babylon

The best rainy day activity when April showers hit is spending time between the pages of a poetry book at the Walt Whitman Birthplace Museum for National Poetry Month.

Photo: Courtesy Cheryl Williams

Charlie Vecchione

8 years old, Lindenhurst Harding Avenue Elementary I like to color when it rains.

Jack Watson 7 years old, Lindenhurst Harding Avenue Elementary I like splashing in the puddles when it rains.

BRANDED CONTENT

Why Battery Storage Is Key to Long Island’s Energy Future

As Long Island’s energy system modernizes, battery storage is becoming a central piece of how electricity is generated, delivered and managed.

At its core, battery energy storage systems (BESS) capture electricity from the power grid — including solar and wind — when demand and prices are low and store it for later use. When demand increases, instead of turning to costly and dirty peaker plants, batteries can discharge, selling their power at a lower price. The result is a more flexible system that can better match supply with demand, saving ratepayers money.

For a region like Long Island, where aging infrastructure and high energy use have long posed challenges, that flexibility is increasingly important. Storage supports the expansion of clean energy while reducing reliance on older, fossil fuel-based generation the region has depended on for years.

“One very, very critical element into the clean energy transition is energy storage,” said Melissa Parrot, executive director of Renewable Energy Long Island.

Safety Built Into Every System

Paul Rogers, a retired FDNY lieutenant now with the Energy Safety Response Group, said today’s systems are guided by rigorous standards, extensive training and coordination with local fire departments. Updated fire safety codes adopted in 2025 are the most stringent in the country, reinforced by a highly trained local workforce.

This is not theoretical. According to the New York State Energy

Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), more than 7,400 BESS facilities are already operating across New York State, supporting grid reliability with minimal safety issues reported.

Stabilizing the Grid, Lowering Costs

Beyond safety, battery energy storage is helping stabilize Long Island’s aging grid. By storing energy when supply is abundant and releasing it during peak demand, these systems reduce

strain on infrastructure, limit outages and decrease reliance on costly peaker plants.

“Battery energy storage helps stabilize the grid and keep pricing down,” said Carrie Meek Gallagher, CEO of the Long Island Power Authority.

For residents and businesses, affordability remains a key benefit. By reducing price spikes and improving system efficiency, storage creates more predictable energy costs.

“Battery energy storage, in my opinion, is the silver bullet for us over the next decade,” said Billy Haugland II of the Haugland Group.

Photo: Christie Leigh Babirad/Herald

Photo: Christie Leigh Babirad/Herald

Paul Rogers, retired FDNY lieutenant and founding principal of Energy Safety Response Group, gives a tour of a battery storage facility in Brooklyn to members of FASNY.

FASNY sounds alarm for new recruits

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

As part of a statewide effort to address declining volunteer firefighter enrollment, the Firefighters Association of the State of New York launched its 17th annual RecruitNY campaign with a news conference and a live firefighting demonstration at the Melville Fire Department April 15.

The initiative comes as the number of volunteer firefighters across the state has dropped by roughly 33 percent over the past two decades, from about 120,000 in the early 2000s to 80,000 today — even as emergency calls continue to rise. Recent data compiled by FASNY shows a 16 percent increase in house fires and a 37 percent jump in overall fire calls over that time, putting added strain on departments.

“It is very important for all of our communities to understand that fire and rescue service is staffed by volunteers who are will-

ing to go out 24/7 and respond to medical and fire emergencies as needed,” the association’s president, Gene Perry, said. “While some departments are doing very well, others face challenges and are trying to get more people and younger people involved.”

Nearly 90 percent of fire departments statewide — including about 70 in Nassau and 100 in Suffolk — rely on volunteers, making recruitment a growing public safety concern.

As part of RecruitNY, departments across Long Island opened their doors for demonstrations and outreach events aimed at attracting new members. Officials said the effort is critical to maintaining staffing levels and emergency response capabilities.

At the Long Island kickoff, FASNY representatives joined local officials and firefighters to highlight recruitment efforts and encourage residents to consider volunteering. They also conducted a demonstration on how firefighters extinguish

dangerous car fires.

In a survey conducted by the association two years ago, 49 percent of New York residents expressed an interest in becoming volunteer firefighters. As well, 66 percent of respondents said they would visit their local fire station to learn more, and 55 percent reported that they would begin with an online search for information.

“What we need are more incentives to encourage people to volunteer, like tax

breaks on homes and priority for affordable housing for volunteers,” Assemblyman Steve Stern said. “These are critically important, but we need to go much further, and I want you to know that we see it and we hear it, because not having enough volunteers is a direct hit on us all — our families and our communities — and it puts our safety at risk.”

For more information on volunteering, contact your local volunteer fire department or visit fasny.com.

Carolyn James/Herald photos

Melville firefighters demonstrate procedures used in putting out a car fire safely at press conference April 15.

FASNY President Gene Perry speaks at press conference about the importance of recruiting more volunteers to local volunteer fire departments across the state.

STEPPING OUT

Rooted in springtime Blossoming out at Planting Fields

By Abbey Salvemini

As spring moves forward towards its peak, Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park in Oyster Bay bursts into a vivid celebration of color, nature and community. This weekend, April 25–26, the inaugural Branches in Bloom Festival invites visitors to stroll beneath sweeping canopies of magnolias, cherry blossoms and other flowering trees.

Blending longstanding tradition with new experiences, the festival refreshes the site’s beloved Arbor Day celebration of years past. Guests can explore the historic estate in colorful bloom while enjoying guided tours, live entertainment and familyfriendly activities, making it an easy spring highlight for visitors of all ages.

The new festival is both a tribute and a transformation.

“Branches in Bloom is a reimagination of a 40-year-old tradition here at Planting Fields,” Communications and Marketing Manager Kayla Cheshire says. “It’s still in honor of Arbor Day, but now we’re really able to focus on our spring flowering collection, something thousands of visitors come to see each year.”

That shift is most visible in the festival’s new setting. Instead of hosting activities away from the colorful trees, organizers moved the entire event to the West Lawn, placing everyone directly among the site’s most stunning seasonal displays. That change will have an immediate impact, according to Stewardship Director Lilly McGurk.

“The focus on the spring blooms is really going to knock everybody’s socks off,” she says with enthusiasm.

The refreshed format also reflects a broader push to make the festival more engaging and accessible to all audiences. While hands-on tree education and environmental programming remain at its core, the expanded offerings are designed to be inviting for families, younger visitors and those discovering the grounds for the first time.

“We wanted to create something that feels contemporary and welcoming to all,” McGurk explains. “People are looking to get outside, enjoy nature and spend time together. This brings in that wellness aspect while still celebrating the environment.”

Over the course of the weekend, the festival

Harry Chapin’s Greatest Stories Live

blends learning with leisure, offering something for both the curious and the casual visitor. Guided tours led by expert horticulturalists, including Arboretum Director Vincent Simeone, provide behind-the-scenes insight into the site’s celebrated collections, while interactive demonstrations and displays offer practical inspiration for gardeners at every level.

Music, magic shows, jugglers and roaming performers keep the grounds buzzing with energy throughout the day.

Anchoring the schedule are performances by Strummin’ and Drummin’ (spanning late morning into the afternoon), complemented by face painting, caricatures and a lineup of food trucks offering plenty of casual bites and treats.

For families, interactive experiences are a major draw. The Kids Tree Climb run by longtime sponsor Wonderland Tree Care + Landscapes returns as a centerpiece activity, giving children the chance to safely scale trees under professional supervision. Due to high demand, last entry is at 2:30 p.m. to ensure all finish by the 4 p.m. close.

• Saturday and Sunday, April 25-26, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

• Admission is $30 per car, or if taking the LIRR to Oyster Bay, $5 per person (kids under 3 free); learn at plantingfields.org

• 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay

Craft stations include simple coloring and imaginative projects like wearable “bee crowns,” designed to spark creativity and connect visitors to nature.

“We design activities with everyone in mind,” McGurk says. “There are things for kids, adults and families to enjoy together.”

The festival also underscores the broader mission of the Planting Fields Foundation, which works in partnership with New York State Parks, to preserve and maintain stewardship of the site. Beyond its celebrated horticulture, the organization continues to highlight the estate’s layered history, art and culture — threads that run throughout the programming and shape the visitor experience.

“There’s so much more here than just the plants,” Cheshire adds. “There’s history, there’s art, there’s culture. Events like this allow us to showcase all of that while making the site accessible to people of all ages and abilities.”

Accessibility remains a priority. This year, organizers pilot a shuttle from the Oyster Bay LIRR station making it easier for visitors from throughout the region to attend without a car. Supported by a state tourism grant through I Love New York, this expands the festival’s reach.

“We want everyone to feel welcome here,” Cheshire says. “This is about creating access not just to the festival, but to green space and nature in general.”

Even with its expanded offerings, Branches in Bloom remains firmly rooted in its Arbor Day heritage. Tree giveaways, educational exhibits, a plant sale, and environmental partnerships continue to anchor the festival, preserving its mission-driven focus while allowing it to evolve and resonate with a new generation.

With blooms in full display, immersive activities and a renewed focus on community connection, organizers aim for the festival to take root as a lasting seasonal celebration.

“It’s a new take on a tradition that means a lot to us. At the end of the day, it’s about bringing people together, celebrating the season and sharing this incredible place with as many people as possible,” Cheshire says.

In the long tradition of American roots music family groups, the Chapin family holds a distinctive place. Tom Chapin, Steve Chapin, Jen Chapin, and The Chapin Sisters (Abigail and Lily Chapin) are all accomplished artists with a shared commitment to family and music that connects deeply with audiences. Their performances together bring that spirit into focus in a powerful and personal way at this special concert honoring Harry Chapin’s legacy. Two generations of his family come together to perform his songs, joined by The Harry Chapin Band, featuring Big John Wallace and Howard Fields.His iiconic works are performed lwith the energy and intimacy they were written with in mind. In keeping with Harry’s lifelong commitment to fighting hunger, everyone is encouraged to bring nonperishable items, to be donated to a local food bank.

Friday, April 24, 8 p.m. $91, $71, $51. JLandmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Port Washington. Tickets available at landmarkonmainstreet.org or (516) 767-6444.

Wild days in the Bronx

Chazz Palminteri returns with his electrifying solo performance of “A Bronx Tale,” the autobiographical one-man show that launched his career. Raw, riveting and deeply personal, the play draws on his bruising childhood in the Bronx, including the moment — at just nineyears-old — when he witnessed a gangland killing that forever shaped his world-view. Onstage, Palminteri inhabits 18 vividly drawn characters, seamlessly shifting between friends, foes and family members to conjure an entire neighborhood with nothing but his voice, physicality and storytelling prowess. First written and performed in 1989, A Bronx Tale quickly became a sensation, hailed as one of the most sought-after stage properties since Rocky. The original production paved the way for the acclaimed film adaptation — directed by Robert De Niro—and later a hit Broadway musical.

Sunday, April 26, 7:30 p.m. The Paramount. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Photos courtesy Planting Fields

Photos: Visitors wander the West Lawn at Planting Fields as spring blooms frame a weekend of music, art and family activities.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

APR

Designer Bag Bingo

The Ladies Philanthropic Society of St. Nicholas Greek Church host a bingo night. Win a beautiful designer handbag through a game of bingo. With dessert, coffee and tea. Food is available for purchase. Also auction style raffles as well as a 50/50 and door prizes. $30.

• Where: St. Nicholas Community Center, 200 Great East Neck Road, West Babylon

• Time: Doors open at 6 p.m., game at 7 p.m.

• Contact: Call (516) 238-6756 or email sthelensphiloptochos@ gmail.com to register

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,

George Thorogood and The Destroyers

Bring a pasta or sauce donation to support Councilman Manetta’s 8th Annual Pasta and Sauce Food Drive. Additional parking with free shuttle bus service at Lindenhurst Train Station. Rain date is May 17.

• Where: Great Lawn at the Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst

• Time: Noon-5 p.m.

• Contact: For more information or to become a vendor, call Councilman Manetta’s office at (631) 957-4482

Our Lady of Lourdes Church Concert

Our Lady of Lourdes Church in West Islip welcomes Grammynominated singer-songwriter Sarah Hart celebrate the parish’s 70th anniversary. This is evening of music, storytelling and fellowship. $30 includes concert and reception. Tickets can be purchased at the site below or directly through the parish office.

• Where: Our Lady of Lourdes RC Church, 455 Hunter Ave., West Islip

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: ollchurch.org or (631) 661-3224

• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

For the past five-plus decades, over 8,000 live shows and more than 15 million albums sold, George Thorogood and The Destroyers have been “The All-American Rock & Roll Party Band” (Goldmine Magazine). In celebration of 53 years of “playing rock ‘n roll hot enough to melt the polar icecaps and flood the world’s major population centers” (Rolling Stone), the group continues The Baddest Show On Earth Tour — a stage-shaking, roofraising, guitar-snarling blast. For an artist whose music honors the blues, rock and country legends of the past, Thorogood’s forward momentum is now stronger than ever. And along with longtime Destroyers Jeff Simon (drums), Bill Blough (bass), Jim Suhler (guitar) and Buddy Leach (saxophone), they continue “to slap a custom flame paint job onto those classic sounds” (Blues Blast Magazine) like never before. The band has lways delivered on their promises. In 1976, they debuted as the most explosive indie breakthrough act of the decade. Throughout the ‘80s/’90s MTV era, Thorogood was the epitome of snakeskin and shades guitar-slinger cool. And with chart-topping hits like ‘One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer’, ‘Move It On Over’, ‘Who Do You Love?’, ‘I Drink Alone’, ‘Get A Haircut’ and the ultimate badass anthem ‘Bad To The Bone’, the band soon became undeniable cornerstones of classic Rock. Meanwhile, their album catalog continues to dominate streaming charts worldwide.

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

APR

25

Arbor Day/ Sean Goodwin Day

The Village of Babylon welcomes all to its Arbor Day celebration, which coincides with Sean Goodwin Day, to honor the life and legacy of the late Goodwin. Event includes educational materials suitable for children of all ages, complimentary snacks, refreshments and tree-shirts. Rain or shine.

• Where: Nathaniel Conklin House, 280 Deer Park Ave., Babylon

• Time: 2-4 p.m.

• Contact: (631) 669-1500

Kite Festival

This year’s Kite Festival is in memory of Diana Simulcik who six years ago pioneered the beginning of the Kite Festival. Hosted by the North Babylon

Chamber of Commerce.

• Where: Overlook Beach, Ocean Parkway, Babylon

• Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

• Contact: (631) 983-4283

Astronomy Day

Vanderbilt Museum’s Reichert Planetarium celebrates Astronomy Day. Astronomy Day is an international celebration of educational programs designed to engage families in the awe-inspiring fields of Earth and space science. The program includes exciting science, takehome materials, and engaging discussions about astronomy. Participants will create nebula spin art, investigate constellations, explore craters, and much more! These fun activities introduce guests to the ongoing research happening at NASA in the fields of Earth science, planetary science, and astrophysics. Activities are included with planetarium show tickets and admission to the museum grounds.

• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport

• Time: 11 a.m.-3 p,m.

• Contact: vanderbiltmuseum. org or call (631) 854-5579

APR

26

In concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame welcomes guitarist Bob Westcott. He is no stranger to Long Island audiences. His career began as a teenager playing guitar in the streets and basket houses of Greenwich Village, and, more auspiciously, as one of the very first members of the Wes Houston Band. Onetime owner of Folk City and famed Greenwich Village scene author Robbie Woliver has called Bob “the real deal”, and for good reason: Bob has been perfecting his elegant finger-style guitar work many years.

• Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook

• Time: 3 p.m.

• Contact: limusichalloffame.org or (631) 689-5888

MAY

Italian Food Festival

The Town of Babylon once again hosts their Italian Food Festival. Entertainment includes Angelo Venuto, Maria Venuto, Carmelo Raccuglia and DJ Domenick. With the La Famiglia Cadillac Club, food vendors and a kid zone.

JUN 18

Top Golf Pre-Launch Twosome Edition

Deer Park Chamber of Commerce invites all to their annual Golf Outing. Enjoy climate-controlled bays, friendly competition, premium food and drinks, raffles and a lively atmosphere designed for both seasoned golfers and firsttimers. This is an opportunity to strengthen connections, meet new local professionals and celebrate alongside fellow chamber members during their installation celebration. The cost is $250 for two tickets and includes open bar, dinner, game play and raffles.

• Where: Top Golf Holtsville, 5231 Express Drive North, Holtsville

• Time: 6-10 p.m.

• Contact: chamberofdeerpark.org or (631) 860-6946

Having an event?

Items on the Calendar page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to kbloom@ liherald.com.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT: SUFFOLK COUNTY. LOAN FUNDER LLC, SERIES 38088, Pltf. vs. ADVANCED CONSULTING & REAL ESTATE SERVICES LLC., et al, Defts. Index #613178/2025.  Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered March 9, 2026, I will sell at public auction on the front steps of the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Hwy., Lindenhurst, NY on May 7, 2026 at 10:00 a.m., prem. k/a 9 State Street, West Babylon, NY 11704 a/k/a, Section 105.00, Block 01.00, Lot 052.000. Approx. amt. of judgment is $414,360.15 plus costs and interest.  Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. JOSHUA PARKER BLUMBERG, Referee. DEUTSCH & SCHNEIDER LLP, Attys. for Pltf.. 79-37 Myrtle Avenue, Glendale, NY 11385. File No. LF-607- #102868 26-200 4/2, 9, 16, 23

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK HSBC BANK USA, N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST HECTOR ARISTY; ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 2, 2020, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on May 18, 2026 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 30 Park Circle North, Farmingdale, NY 11735. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at East Farmingdale, in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, Section: 047.00 Block:

03.00 Lot: 086.000 District: 0100. Approximate amount of judgment $403,296.21 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #603157/2018. For sale information, please visit ServiceLink Auction at https://www.servicelinkauction.com or call (866) 539-4173. J oseph Fritz, Esq., Referee FEIN, SUCH & CRANE, LLP 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800 Rochester, NY 14614 FSLNY006 89566 26-220. 4/16, 23, 30, 5/7

NOTICE

OF FORMATION OF RAYLA RESTAURANT GROUP LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/07/2025. Office location: Suffolk County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: 26 Hanover Pl, Smithtown, NY 11787. Purpose: any lawful activity. 26-199 4/2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 5/7

Notice of formation of Blue Water Operations LLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SS Y) on 03/26/2026 Office location, County of Suffolk

SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail a process served to: 69 Cotter St., West Islip NY 11795 Purpose: any lawful act.

26-210. 4/9. 16, 23, 30, 5/7, 14

Public Notices

Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-0340-26107766 for liquor, beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor, beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 81 Fort Salonga Road, Northport, NY 11768, County of Suffolk, for on premises consumption at Marin Restaurant Group Inc. 26-229. 4/16, 23

Notice of Formation of LCG Innovative Consultant LLC filed with SSNY on March 10, 2026. Office location: Suffolk County. SSNY is designated as agent for service of process. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: 30 Brown Blvd, Wheatley Heights NY 11798. Purpose: to engage in any lawful act or activity. 26-176. 3/26, 4/2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Notice of formation of KELLS CONSULTING COLLECTIVE, LLC, a Limited Liability Company. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of the State of New York (SSNY) on 01/15/2026. Office located in Suffolk County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process served against the LLC to C/O the LLC, 108 OCEAN AVE, AMITYVILLE, NY 11701. Purpose: Providing consulting and advisory services .26-213. 4/9, 16, 23, 30, 5/7, 14

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT SUFFOLK COUNTY

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, IN TRUST FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF CITIGROUP MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST

2007-AHL2, ASSETBACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES

2007-AHL2, Plaintiff against SHARON BASILE AK/A SHARON E. BASILE A/K/A SHARON E. KOPPEL, et al

Defendant(s)

Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Fein Such & Crane, LLP, 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800, Rochester, NY 14614.

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered January 8, 2026, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at Babylon Townhall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on May 6, 2026 at 1:30 PM. Premises known as 44 Parkdale Drive, North Babylon, NY 11703. District 0100 Sec 115.00 Block 02.00 Lot 079.00. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $575,939.08 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 208784/2022. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District's Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing.

Arthur J. Burdette, Esq., Referee File # SPSNY712

26-198. 4/2, 9, 16, 23

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF Suffolk, Atlantica, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. The Unknown Heirs of The Estate of Virginia Andrews, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on February 10, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on May 7, 2026 at 9:30 a.m., premises known as 537 Lakeway Drive, West Babylon, NY 11704. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0100, Section 105.00, Block 02.00 and Lot 061.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $581,912.54 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 009157/2013. J. Edward Gathman, Esq., Referee Margolin, Weinreb & Nierer, LLP, 575 Underhill Boulevard, Suite 224, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 26-182. 4/2, 9,, 16, 23

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR MASTR SPECIALIZED LOAN TRUST 2005-2 MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-2, -againstJAMES PARKS, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on September 24, 2024, wherein DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR MASTR SPECIALIZED LOAN TRUST 2005-2 MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-2 is the Plaintiff and JAMES PARKS, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the BABYLON TOWN HALL, 200 EAST SUNRISE HIGHWAY, NORTH LINDENHURST, NY 11757, on May 19, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 86 MANHATTAN AVENUE, WEST BABYLON, NY 11704; and the following tax map identification: 0100140.00-03.00-013.003. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject

to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 608507/2023. Jonathan A. Baum, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 26-226. 4/16,23, 30, 5/7

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY AS TRUSTEE FOR INDYMAC INDX MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2006-FLX1, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2006-FLX1, -againstPUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR OF SUFFOLK COUNTY, AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF HOWARD R. TAYLOR, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on August 3, 2023, wherein DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY AS TRUSTEE FOR INDYMAC INDX MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2006-FLX1, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2006FLX1 is the Plaintiff

and PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR OF SUFFOLK COUNTY, AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF HOWARD R. TAYLOR, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the BABYLON TOWN HALL, 200 EAST SUNRISE HIGHWAY, NORTH LINDENHURST, NY 11757, on May 19, 2026 at 1:30PM, premises known as 7 ASH PLACE, WYANDANCH, NY 11798; and the following tax map identification: 0100-055.00-03.00052.003 and 052.004. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 619055/2018. Robert A. Macedonio, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 26-227. 4/16, 23, 30, 5/7

NOTICE

OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

SUFFOLK COUNTY

WILMINGTON

SAVINGS FUND

SOCIETY, FSB, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER

TRUSTEE OF CSMC

2021-RPL4 TRUST, Plaintiff against MARK GETZ, et al Defendant(s)

Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Margolin, Weinreb & Nierer, LLP, 575 Underhill Boulevard, Suite 224, Syosset, NY 11791.

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered March 9, 2026, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at Babylon Townhall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on May 14, 2026 at 3:00 PM. Premises known as 685 Howard Avenue, Copiague, NY 11726. District 0100 Sec 196.00 Block 03.00 Lot 063.000. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Copiague, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $471,091.88 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 626255/2024. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District's Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing.

Robert Fuchs, Esq., Referee File # 230908 26-205. 4/9, 4/16, 23, 30

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCAF ACQUISITION TRUST, -againstPATRICIA PETRILLO, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on March 5, 2026, wherein U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCAF ACQUISITION TRUST is the Plaintiff and PATRICIA PETRILLO, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the BABYLON TOWN HALL, 200 EAST SUNRISE HIGHWAY, NORTH LINDENHURST, NY 11757, on May 11, 2026 at 1:45PM, premises known as 285 WEST 10TH STREET, DEER PARK, NY 11729; and the following tax map identification: 0100086.00-02.00-002.000. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 608969/2023. Francesco P. Tini, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310,

Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

26-206. 4/9, 4/16, 23, 30

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF SUFFOLK DEUTSCHE BANK TRUST COMPANY AMERICAS AS TRUSTEE RALI 2006-QS12, Plaintiff AGAINST TAREQ MOLLAH

A/K/A TAREQ M. MOLLAH; ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 6, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on May 11, 2026 at 1:00 PM, premises known as 130 Claremont Avenue, West Babylon, NY 11704. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk, State of New York, District: 0100 Section: 141.00 Block: 02.00 Lot(s): 057.000 & 058.003. Approximate amount of judgment $1,016,322.20 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #203752/2022. For sale information, please visit Auction. com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. Francesco Paolo Tini, Esq., Ref-

eree FEIN, SUCH & CRANE, LLP 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800 Rochester, NY 14614

SPSNY760 89477

26-207. 4/9, 16, 23, 30

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK KINECTA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, Plaintiff AGAINST JASMINE MORGAN AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF ROBIN MORGANHAWKINS, ROBERT L. HAWKINS, JR. AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF ROBIN MORGANHAWKINS, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 10, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on May 12, 2026 at 10:00 AM, premises known as 31 South 23rd Street, Wyandanch, NY 11798. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0100 Section 055.00 Block 02.00 Lot 030.001. Approximate amount of judgment $182,838.07 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #631468/2023. For sale information, please visit Auction. com at www.Auction. com or call (800) 2802832. Joy E. Jorgensen, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-004060 89482 26-208. 4/9, 16, 23, 30

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF SUFFOLK U.S. BANK NA-

TIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR STRUCTURED ASSET SECURITIES CORPORATION MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-GEL2, Plaintiff AGAINST LUIS A. ESPINAL LOPEZ AKA LUIS ALONSO ESPINAL LOPEZ, PIERRE JUSTIN, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered July 18, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on May 7, 2026 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 128 North 17th Street, Wyandanch, NY 11798. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Wyandanch, in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0100, Section 013.00, Block 03.00, Lot 129.000. Approximate amount of judgment $719,102.74 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #603217/2017. For sale information, please contact XOME at www.Xome.com or call (844) 400-9633. Joseph L. Fritz, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 16-005240

89426

26-209. 4/9, 16, 23, 30

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF Suffolk, Wilmington Trust, National Association, not in its individual capacity but solely as Delaware Trustee of SMRF Trust VII-A, Plaintiff, vs. 35 West Santa Barbara LLC, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on June 27, 2024 and an Order Extending the Sale Deadline duly entered on February 25, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on May 15, 2026 at 1:00 p.m., premises known as 35 Santa Barbara Road West a/k/a 35 West Santa Barbara Road, Lindenhurst, NY 11757. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Copiague, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0100, Section 190.00, Block 02.00 and Lot 076.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $523,792.21 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #613358/2023.

Brooke J. Breen, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 230934-1 26-216. 4/16, 23, 30, 5/7

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF Suffolk, Mortgage Assets Management, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. Susan Mackenzie, as Nominated Successor Executrix and Beneficiary Under the Last Will and Testament and as Heir at Law of Margaret Hacker; Karen Bohannon, as Heir, Devisee, Distributee of the Estate of Margaret Hacker, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judg-

ment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on February 19, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on May 20, 2026 at 3:00 p.m., premises known as 17 Mound Street, Lindenhurst, NY 11757. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0103, Section 024.00, Block 02.00 and Lot 096.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $729,851.00 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 602077/2015. Alison M. Varley, Esq., Referee Greenspoon Marder, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 2200, New York, NY 10105, Attorneys for Plaintiff 26-217. 4/16, 23, 30, 5/7

REFEREE'S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF SUFFOLK BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., Plaintiff - against - PAUL M. WESTPHAL, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on April 2, 2025. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on the 14th day of May, 2026 at 10:30 AM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying

and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk, and State of New York. Premises known as 26 Gibbs Road, Amityville a/k/a Amity Harbor, (Town of Babylon) NY 11701. (DSBL#: 0100-182.0001.00-103.000)

Approximate amount of lien $175,517.58 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 610921/2023. Peter L. Kramer, Esq., Referee. 516-510-4020. Davidson Fink LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff

400 Meridian Centre Blvd, Ste 200 Rochester, NY 14618 Tel. 585/760-8218

Dated: March 20, 2026

During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. Auction Locations are subject to change. 26-219. 4/16, 23, 30, 5/7

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK

U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCAF ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff, AGAINST CHRISTOPHER WHITE, NICOLE CONSI, et al. Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on December 9, 2025.

I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on May 15, 2026 at 2:00 PM premises known as 415 Pleasantview Court, Babylon, NY 11726 A/K/A 415 Pleasantview Court, Copiague, NY 11726.

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

All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in Copiague, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York. District 0100 Section 195.00, Block 02.00 and Lot 021.000.

Approximate amount of judgment $477,872.39 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #611748/2024.

Brooke J. Breen, Esq., Referee,

Aldridge Pite, LLPAttorneys for Plaintiff - 40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747

26-218. 4/16, 23, 30, 5/7

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR WELLS FARGO ASSET SECURITIES CORPORATION, MORTGAGE ASSET-BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-PA2, -againstPHILIP TUCCI A/K/A PHILIP S. TUCCI, JR., ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE

IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on April 30, 2024, wherein HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR WELLS FARGO ASSET SECURITIES CORPORATION, MORTGAGE ASSET-BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-PA2 is the Plaintiff and PHILIP TUCCI A/K/A PHILIP S. TUCCI, JR., ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the BABYLON TOWN HALL, 200 EAST SUNRISE HIGHWAY, NORTH LINDENHURST, NY 11757, on May 18, 2026 at 8:45AM, premises known as 129 E 5TH STREET, DEER PARK, NY 11729; and the following tax map identification: 0100-063.0004.00-096.000. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE

BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 015314/2012. David H. Besso, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/ CLERK DIRECTIVES.

26-223 4/16, 23, 30, 5/7

NOTICE CONCERNING THE EXAMINATION OF ASSESSMENT INVENTORY AND VALUATION DATA

(Pursuant to Section 501 of the Real Property Tax Law)

Notice is hereby given that the assessment inventory and valuation data is the information that will be used to establish the assessment of each parcel which will appear on the Tentative Assessment Roll of the Town of Babylon, which will be filed on or before May 1, 2026. This information may be reviewed, by appointment, in the Assessor’s office on Thursday, April 23, 2026 between the hours of 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM and Friday, April 24, 2026 between the hours of 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM. An appointment to review

Public Notices

the assessment information may be made by calling the Assessor’s office at (631) 957-3015.

Dated: April 1, 2026 Matthew R. Cronin, IAO Assessor 26-225 4/16, 23.

Notice of Formation of Idlewild Ventures LLC ("the LLC"). Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York ("SSNY") on March 9, 2026. Office location: Suffolk County. Street address of LLC: 55 Larboard Court, OIBA 4436 Babylon, NY 11702. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon SSNY to the LLC: 55 Larboard Court, OIBA 4436 Babylon, NY 11702. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 26-163 . 3/26, 4/2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 5/7

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

SUFFOLK COUNTY FREEDOM MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Plaintiff against CHRISTOPHER CHODKOWSKI, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840, New York, NY 10170. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered November 13, 2025, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at Babylon Townhall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on May 19, 2026 at 1:00 PM. Premises known as 222 Lido Pkwy, Lindenhurst, NY 11757. District 0100 Sec 227.00 Block 03.00 Lot 034.000. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, situ-

ate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $454,841.16 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 628798/2023. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District's Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing.

Deposit by certified funds only, made payable to the referee. For sale information, please contact XOME at www.Xome.com or call (844)400-9633. Jonathan A Baum, Esq., Referee File # 23-16241NY 26- 221. 4/16, 23, 30, 5/7

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

HSBC BANK USA, N.A. AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED NOTEHOLDERS OF RENAISSANCE HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST 2006-3, Plaintiff, Against JOSEPH RAPPA; et al Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 02/17/2026, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757, on 5/4/2026 at 9:30AM, premises known as 207 Mohawk Avenue, Deer Park, NY 11729, and described as follows:

ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situ-

ate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk, and State of New York. District 0100 Section 028.00 Block 01.00 Lot 042.001

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $293,193.99 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 005513/2013

Richard Lavorata Jr., Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573 Dated: 3/12/2026 File Number: 17-301521 CA 26-195. 4/2, 9, 16, 23

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, April 28th, 2026. Public hearings begin 6:00pm.

NEW APPLICA -

TIONS:

•Anthony & Stephanie Nici 79 Monarch Ave West Babylon, NY 11704

SCTM#0100-137-437

•.Fradeline & Geronimo Branagan 42 Parkway Blvd Wyandanch, NY 11798

SCTM#0100-80-1-37

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.

Babylon Beacon: Thursday, April 23, 2026 26-230 4/23

SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF SUFFOLK - BABYLON. THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWALT, INC., ALTERNATIVE LOAN TRUST 2006-OA7, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-OA7, Plaintiff -against- TANYA M. SMITH AKA TANYA NASH; MICHAEL A. SMITH, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated December 12, 2023 and entered on January 23, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps of the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY on May 27, 2026 at 3:30 p.m. premises situate, lying and being at North Amityville, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the corner formed by the intersection of the southerly side of 44th Street with the easterly side of Pacific Street; being

a plot 100.16 feet by 66.77 feet by 100.16 feet by 66.77. DSBL: 0100-202.00-03.00046.002 Said premises known as 450 PACIFIC STREET, COPIAGUE, NY 11726 Approximate amount of lien $340,560.35 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index Number 601574/2023. ROBERT T. FUCHS, ESQ., Referee Pincus & Tarab Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 425 RXR Plaza, Uniondale, NY 11556 26-234. 4/23, 30, 5/7, 14

Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA0340-26-103725 for liquor, beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor, beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 174 Islip Ave, Islip, NY 11751, County of Suffolk, for on premises consumption at Unico Asado And Cocktails Inc. 26-235. 4/23, 30

Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-0340-26108660 for liquor, beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor, beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 311 Boulevard E, Store C-2, Yaphank, NY 11980, County of Suffolk, for on premises consumption at The Pizzeria of Yaphank LLC. 26-236. 4/23, 30

April 23, 2026

Notice of Annual School District Election & Budget Vote Deer Park Union Free School District Notice is given that an Annual Meeting of the Deer Park Union Free School District, Suffolk County, NY, will be held at the Deer Park High School (gymnasium), 1 Falcon Place, Deer Park, NY, on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 from 7:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M, at which time the polls will be open to vote by voting machine upon the following propositions:

PROPOSITION I., SCHOOL DISTRICT

BUDGET:

Shall the Board of Education of the Deer Park Union Free School District be authorized to expend the sums of money set forth in the proposed budget for the 20262027 school year and to levy the necessary tax therefore?

ELECT MEMBERS TO THE BOARD OF EDUCATION AS FOLLOWS:

A.One member for a term of three (3) years commencing July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2029, to succeed Al Centamore, whose term expires June 30, 2026.

B. One member for a term of three (3) years commencing July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2029, to succeed Donna Gulli Grunseich, whose term expires June 30, 2026.

Notice is further given that a budget hearing will be held on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at 7:30 P.M. at the Administration Office, 1881 Deer Park Avenue, Deer Park, N.Y. Copies of the proposed District budget for the year 2026-2027, together with the text of all propositions, will be available at the election, on the District website at www.deer-

parkschools.org; and in each school building in the District beginning 14 days prior to the Annual District Election during the hours designated:

John Quincy Adams Primary School - 9:00

A.M. to 3:00 P.M.

May Moore Primary School - 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.

John F. Kennedy Intermediate School – 8:30

A.M. to 2:30 P.M.

Robert Frost Middle School – 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.

Deer Park Senior High School - 8:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.

Homer Avenue Building - 8:00 A.M. -3:00 P.M.

Notice is further given that pursuant to Education Law §2014, personal registration of voters is required and no person shall be entitled to vote at said meeting whose name does not appear on the register of said school district, or who is not registered under Article 5 of the Election Law. All qualified voters who voted in school elections or at any special meeting or in any general election within the past four (4) years are not required to register with the Board of Registration for the May 19, 2026 election.

Notice is further given that the Board of Registration shall meet on the following dates for the purpose of registering voters for the May 19, 2026 annual district election:

• Wednesday, May 6 @ Administration Office, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

• Tuesday, May 12 @ Administration Office, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

• Wednesday, May 13 @ Administration Office, 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Please note that registration with the District for the May 19, 2026 election will not

be permitted after the time set above on May 13, 2026. The register prepared will be on file in the District Clerk’s office, Administration Building, 1881 Deer Park Avenue, Deer Park, NY, and such register will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., on each of the five (5) days prior to the election, including Saturday, May 16, 2026 (by appointment only), excluding Sunday and holidays, and during the election on May 19, 2026. Notice is further given that petitions nominating candidates for the office of member of the Board of Education shall be filed from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., in the District Clerk’s office, except that on Monday, April 20, 2026, nominating petitions may be filed with the District Clerk from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Nominating petitions may not be filed later than 5:00 p.m. on April 20, 2026. Each petition must be directed to the District Clerk; must be signed by at least twenty-five (25) qualified voters of the district; must state the name and residence of the candidate; and must describe the specific vacancy for which the candidate is nominated, including the length of the term of office and the name of the last incumbent. In accordance with the rules adopted pursuant to Education Law §2035 and Board Policy #1050, the following rule applies to propositions which are not required to be included in the legal notice. Any qualified voter may have a proposition placed upon the ballot, provided that such proposition is typed or printed and submitted to the District Clerk not less than thirty (30) days

Public Notices

before the Annual School District Election, i.e. no later than April 20, 2026. A voter proposition must contain the greater of 25 signatures or 5% of the eligible voters who voted in the previous annual election of the members of the Board of Education, whichever is greater. However, the Board will not entertain any proposition to be placed before the voters where the proposition is not within the power of the voters to determine, would be confusing to the voters, or is contrary to law.

Notice is further given that applications for absentee ballots are to be completed on a form prescribed by the state board of elections and may be obtained by contacting the District Clerk by email at Brennan.l@deerparkschools.org, or phone at 631-274-4013. Applications for early mail ballots are to be completed on a form prescribed by the state board of elections and may be obtained by visiting the State Education Department’s website (https://www. counsel.nysed.gov/ miscellaneous), or by contacting the District Clerk by email at Brennan.l@deerparkschools.org or phone at 631-274-4013. Completed applications for absentee and early mail ballots must be received at least seven (7) days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or to his or her designated agent, but such applications will not be accepted before April 20, 2026. Absentee and early mail ballots must be received in the District Clerk’s office not later than 5:00 p.m. on

Tuesday, May 19, 2026 to be canvassed. A list of all persons to whom absentee and early mail ballots have been issued will be available for inspection in the District Clerk’s office on each of the five days prior to the election during the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. except Sunday, and on Saturday by appointment only.

Notice is further given, that pursuant to Education Law §2018-d, any person serving in the military, including spouses and dependents, may register to vote in the upcoming school district election. A military voter who is a qualified voter of the school district may obtain a registration form by contacting the District Clerk by telephone (631-274-4013), facsimile (631-242-6762), email (brennan.l@ deerparkschools.org), mail (1881 Deer Park Avenue, Deer Park, NY 11729), or in person (from 8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.). A military voter who is duly registered may apply for a military ballot by requesting an application form from the District Clerk. Completed applications must be personally delivered or mailed to the District Clerk and received no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 23, 2026. Military ballots must be received by 5:00 p.m. on May 19, 2026 if signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto with a date which is not later than the day before the election, or not later than the close of the polls on May 19, 2026 if showing a cancellation mark of the United States postal service or a foreign country’s postal service; or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States gov-

ernment. A military voter may designate a preference to receive a military voter registration form, military ballot application or military ballot by mail, facsimile or electronic mail in the request for such registration, ballot application, or ballot.

Notice is further given, that pursuant to Section 495 of the Real Property Tax Law, the District is required to attach to its proposed budget an exemption report.  Said exemption report, which will also become part of the final budget, will show how the total assessed value on the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt from taxation, list every type of exemption granted by the statutory authority, and show the cumulative impact of each type of exemption, the cumulative amount expected to be received as payments in lieu of taxes and the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted.

Notice is further given, that this Board shall convene a special meeting thereof within 24 hours after the filing with the District Clerk of a written report of the results of the ballot for the purpose of examining and tabulating said reports of the result of the ballot and declaring the result of the ballot; that the Board designates itself to be a set of poll clerks to cast and canvass ballots pursuant to Education Law §2019-a(2)(b) at said special meeting of the Board.

Ms. Lisa Brennan, District Clerk Deer Park Union Free School District Suffolk County, New York 26-187. 4/2, 9, 23, 5/7

Aviso de Elección Escolar Anual y Voto de Presupuesto Deer Park Union Free School District

Se hace saber que una Reunión Anual del Distrito Escolar de Deer Park , Condado de Suffolk, N.Y., se llevará a cabo en Deer Park High School (gimnasio) , 1 Falcon Place, Deer Park , NY, el martes, 19 de mayo , 2026, de 7:00 a.m. a las 9:00 p.m, hora en la que se abrirán las urnas para votar mediante máquina de votación sobre las siguientes propuestas: Proposición I., PRESUPUESTO DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR : ¿Se debe autorizar a la junta del Distrito Escolar de Deer Park a gastar las sumas de dinero establecidas en el presupuesto propuesto para el año 2026-2027 y, por lo tanto, a recaudar el impuesto necesario?

ELEGIR A LOS MIEMBROS DE LA JUNTA DE EDUCACIÓN COMO SIGUE :

A.      Un miembro por un período de tres (3) años comenzando el 1 de julio de 2026 y finalizando el 30 de junio de 2029, para suceder a Al Centamore , cuyo período expira el 30 de junio de 2026 .

B.      Un miembro por un período de tres (3) años comenzando el 1 de julio de 2026 y finalizando el 30 de junio de 2029, para suceder a Donna Gulli Grunseich, cuyo periodo expira el 30 de junio de 2026. Además se hace saber que se llevará a cabo una audiencia presupuestaria el martes 5 de mayo 2026, a las 7: 30 p.m. en la Oficina de Administración de 1881 Deer Park Avenue, Deer Park, N.Y. Las copias de la propuesta presupuestaria del distrito para el año 2026-2027, junto con

el texto de todas las propuestas, estarán disponibles en la elección, en el sitio web del Distrito en www. deerparkschools.org. y en cada edificio escolar del Distrito a partir de los 14 días anteriores a la Elección Anual del Distrito durante las horas designadas. Escuela primaria John Quincy Adams: de 9:00 a. m. a 3:00 p. m.

Escuela primaria May Moore: de 9:00 a. m. a 3:00 p. m.

Escuela intermedia

John F. Kennedy: de 8:30 a. m. a 2:30 p. m.

Escuela secundaria

Robert Frost: de 9:00 a. m. a 3:00 p. m.

Escuela secundaria

Deer Park: de 8:00 a. m. a 2:00 p. m.

Edificio Homer Avenue: de 8:00 a. m. a 3:00 p. m.

Se notifica además que de conformidad con la Ley de Educación §2014, se requiere el registro personal de votantes y ninguna persona tendrá derecho a votar en dicha reunión cuyo nombre no aparezca en el registro de dicho distrito escolar, o que no esté registrado bajo el Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral. Todos los votantes calificados que votaron en las elecciones escolares o en cualquier reunión especial o en cualquier elección general dentro de los cuatro (4) años anteriores a la preparación del registro no están obligados a registrarse en la Junta de Registro para la elección del 19 de mayo de 2026. Además, se notifica que la Junta de Registro se reunirá en las siguientes fechas con el propósito de registrar votantes para la elección anual del distrito del 19 de mayo de 2026:

• Miércoles 6 de mayo en la Oficina

Continued on next page

Continued from previous page de Administración, de 9:00 a.m a 1:00 p.m

• Martes 12 de mayo en la Oficina de Administración, de 9:00 a.m a 1:00 p.m.

•Miércoles 13 de mayo en la Oficina de Administración, de 3:00 p.m. a 7:00 p.m.

Tenga en cuenta que la inscripción en el Distrito para las elecciones del 19 de mayo de 2026 no se permitirá después del tiempo establecido anteriormente el 13 de mayo de 2026. Se notifica que el registro preparado de conformidad con la Sección 2014 de la Ley de Educación será archivado en la oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito, en el Edificio de Administración de 1881 Deer Park Avenue, Deer Park, N .Y. , y que dicho registro estará abierto para la inspección de cualquier votante calificado del Distrito entre las 8:00 a.m. y las 3:30 p.m., en cada uno de los cinco (5) días antes de la elección, incluyendo el sábado 16 de mayo de 2026 (con cita previa) y excluyendo los domingos y días festivos, y durante las elecciones el 19 de mayo de 2026. Además se hace constar que las peticiones nominando candidatos para el cargo de miembro de la Junta de Educación se deberán presentar entre las 8:00 a.m. y las 3:30 p.m., en la oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito, excepto que el lunes, 20 de abril de 2026, las peticiones de nominación pueden ser presentadas ante la Secretaria del Distrito entre las 8:00 a.m. y las 5:00 p.m. Las peticiones de nominación no pueden presentarse después de las 5:00 p.m. el 20 de abril de 2026. Cada petición debe ser dirigida a la Secretaria del Distrito;

debe estar firmada por al menos veinticinco (25) votantes calificados del distrito; debe indicar el nombre y la residencia del candidato; y debe describir la vacante específica para la cual se nominó al candidato, incluyendo la duración del mandato y el nombre del último titular. De acuerdo con las reglas adoptadas de conformidad con la Ley de Educación §2035 y la Política de la Junta #1050, la siguiente regla se aplica a las propuestas que no deben incluirse en el aviso legal. Cualquier votante calificado puede hacer que se coloque una propuesta en la boleta, siempre que dicha propuesta esté mecanografiada o impresa y enviada a la Secretaría del Distrito no menos de treinta (30) días antes de la elección anual del distrito escolar, es decir, a más tardar el 20 de abril de 2026. Una propuesta de votante debe contener la mayor de las 25 firmas o el 5% de los votantes elegibles que votaron en la elección anual anterior de los miembros de la Junta de Educación, la que sea mayor. Sin embargo, la Junta no tomará en cuenta cualquier propuesta que se presente a los votantes cuando la propuesta no esté dentro del poder de los votantes para determinar, sería confusa para los votantes o sería contraria a la ley. Además, se notifica que las solicitudes de boletas de voto en ausencia deben completarse en un formulario prescrito por la Junta Electoral del Estado, el cual puede obtenerse contactando a la Secretaría del Distrito por correo electrónico en brennan.l@deerparkschools.org o por teléfono al 631-2744013.

Las solicitudes para las

boletas de voto anticipado por correo deben completarse en un formulario prescrito por la junta electoral estatal y pueden obtenerse visitando el sitio web del Departamento de Educación del Estado (https:// www.counsel.nysed. gov/miscellaneous) o comunicándose con la Secretaria del Distrito por correo electrónico a Brennan.l@ deerparkschools.org o por teléfono al 631274-4013.

Las solicitudes completas para las papeletas de voto en ausencia y de voto anticipado por correo deben recibirse al menos siete (7) días antes de la elección si la papeleta se enviará por correo al votante, o el día antes de la elección si la papeleta se entregará personalmente al votante o a su agente designado, pero dichas solicitudes no se aceptarán antes del 20 de abril de 2026. Las papeletas de voto en ausencia y de voto anticipado por correo deben recibirse en la oficina de la Secretaría del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. del martes 19 de mayo de 2026 para ser escrutadas. Una lista de todas las personas a quienes se les han emitido papeletas de voto en ausencia y de voto anticipado por correo estará disponible para su inspección en la oficina de la Secretaría del Distrito cada uno de los cinco días previos a la elección durante el horario de 8:00 a. m. a 3:30 p. m. excepto los domingos y los sábados solo con cita previa. Además, se notifica que, de conformidad con la Ley de Educación §2018-d, cualquier persona que preste servicio en las fuerzas armadas, incluyendo los cónyuges y dependientes, puede registrarse para vo-

Public Notices

tar en las próximas elecciones del distrito escolar. Un votante militar que sea un votante calificado del distrito escolar puede obtener un formulario de registro comunicándose con la Secretaria del Distrito por teléfono (631-2744013), fax (631-2426762), correo electrónico (brennan.l@ deerparkschools.org), correo (1881 Deer Park Avenue, Deer Park, NY 11729), o en persona (durante el horario de oficina habitual de 8:00 a.m. a 3:30 p.m.). Un votante militar que esté debidamente registrado puede solicitar una boleta militar solicitando un formulario de solicitud a la Secretaría del Distrito. Las solicitudes completas deben entregarse personalmente o enviarse por correo a la Secretaria del Distrito y recibirse a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. el 23 de abril de 2026. Las boletas militares deben recibirse antes de las 5:00 p.m. el 19 de mayo de 2026 si están firmadas y fechadas por el votante militar y un testigo del mismo con una fecha que no sea posterior al día anterior a la elección, o no posterior al cierre de las urnas el 19 de mayo de 2026 si tienen matasellos o endosamiento de una agencia del gobierno de los Estados Unidos. Un votante militar puede designar una preferencia para recibir un formulario de registro de votante militar, una solicitud de boleta militar o una boleta militar por correo, fax o correo electrónico en la solicitud de dicho registro, solicitud de boleta o boleta. Se da aviso adicional, de conformidad con la Sección 495 de la Ley de Impuestos sobre Bienes Raíces, el Distrito debe adjuntar a su presupuesto

propuesto un informe de exención.   Dicho informe de exención, que también formará parte del presupuesto final, mostrará cómo el valor total evaluado en la tirada de evaluación final utilizada en el proceso presupuestario está exento de impuestos, enumera cada tipo de exención otorgada por la autoridad estatutaria y muestra el el impacto acumulativo de cada tipo de exención, la cantidad acumulada que se espera recibir como pagos en lugar de impuestos y el impacto acumulativo de todas las exenciones otorgadas.

Se da aviso adicional, de que esta Junta convocará una reunión especial de la misma dentro de las 24 horas posteriores a la presentación ante la Secretaria del Distrito de un informe escrito de los resultados de la boleta con el fin de examinar y tabular dichos informes del resultado de la boleta electoral y declarando el resultado de la papeleta; que la Junta por este medio se designa a sí misma como un conjunto de funcionarios de votación para emitir y examinar las boletas de acuerdo con la Ley de Educación §2019-a (2)(b) en dicha reunión especial de la Junta.

Señora Lisa Brennan, Secretaria del Distrito Deer Park Union Free School District

Condado de Suffolk, Nueva York   26-188. 4/2, 9, 23, 5/7

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING, BUDGET

VOTE AND ELECTION

BABYLON UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT

TOWN OF BABYLON, SUFFOLK COUNTY, NEW YORK

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that a public hearing of the qualified voters of the Babylon Union Free School District of the Town of Babylon, Suffolk County New York, will be held in the library of the Babylon JuniorSenior High School, 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, New York in said District on May 11, 2026 at 7:30 p.m., prevailing time, for the transaction of such business as is authorized by the New York State Education Law, including the following items.

• To present to the voters a detailed statement (proposed budget) of the amount of money which will be required for the 2026-2027 school year.

• To discuss all of the items herein set forth, to be voted upon by voting machine, at the election to be held on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, as hereinafter set forth.

• To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that said vote and election will be held on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 6:00 a.m., prevailing time, at the Babylon Junior-Senior High School, 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, New York, at which time the polls will be open from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., prevailing time, to vote by voting machines upon the following items:

1. To adopt the annual budget of the School District for the fiscal year 2026-2027 and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the District.

2. To consider the following proposition submitted by the Board of Education: Shall the Board of Education of the Babylon UFSD be authorized

to expend funds in an amount not to exceed an estimated total cost of $475,000 from funds already deposited in the Babylon UFSD Capital Reserve fund which was established on May 19, 2015 (Reserve Fund) pursuant to Section 3651 of the Education Law for the repair and redesign/expansion of the parking lot at Babylon Elementary School. Furthermore, shall the Board of Education of the Babylon UFSD be authorized to expend funds in an amount not to exceed an estimated total cost of $200,000 from funds already deposited in the Babylon UFSD Capital Reserve fund which was established on May 17, 2016 (Reserve Fund) pursuant to Section 3651 of the Education Law for the removal and installation of a new oil tank, piping, and monitoring system at Babylon Memorial Grade School.

3. To elect three (3) members of the Board of Education of said School District for a three (3) year term commencing on July 1, 2026 and expiring on June 30, 2029. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that petitions nominating candidates for the office of Member of the Board of Education of the Babylon Union Free School District shall be filed with the District Clerk of said School District at the District Clerk’s office, located at 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, New York, not later than April 20, 2026 between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., prevailing time. All nominating petitions must be signed by at least 25 qualified voters of the District (representing the greater of 25 or 2% of the number of voters who voted in the previous annual election); must state the name and residence of each signer, and must state the name and residence of the candidate. Vacancies on the Board of Education shall not be considered separate, specific offices; candidates run at large. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that personal registration of voters is required either pursuant to New York Education Law §2014 or pursuant to Article 5 of the New York State Election Law. If a voter has heretofore registered pursuant to New York Education Law §2014 and has voted at any annual or special district meeting within the past four (4) calendar years, such voter is eligible to vote at this election; if a voter is registered and eligible to vote pursuant to Article 5 of the New York State Election Law, such voter is also eligible to vote at this election. All other persons who wish to vote must register. Voters may register on any school day prior May 7, 2026, at the Office of the District Clerk, located at 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, New York, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., prevailing time, to add any additional names to the registers to be used at the aforesaid election, at which time any person will be entitled to have her or his name placed on such registers provided that at the meeting of the Board of Registration he or she is known, or proven to the satisfaction of the Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at such public hearing or election for which such registers are prepared, and that the registers so prepared pursuant to New

Continued on next page

April 23, 2026

Continued from previous York Education Law §2014 and the registration list prepared by the Board of Elections of Suffolk County will be filed in the Office of the District Clerk of the School District, located at 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, New York, and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District on weekdays between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., prevailing time, on and after May 14, 2026, and Saturday by pre-arranged appointment, except Sunday; AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to New York Education Law §2014, the Board of Registration shall meet on May 19, 2026, at the Babylon Junior-Senior High School, located at 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, New York between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m., prevailing time, to prepare the Register of the School District to be used at the annual meeting and election that is to be held in 2027, and any special meeting that may be held after the preparation of said Register, at which time any person will be entitled to have her or his name placed on such Register, provided that at such meeting of the Board of Registration he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of such Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at the school meeting or election for which such Register is prepared.

AND FURTHER

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that qualified voters with disabilities who seek information about access to polling places may, in advance of the day of the vote, contact the District

Clerk at 631-893-7923 for information about accessibility. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that beginning seven (7) days immediately preceding the May 11, 2026, public budget hearing, any resident in the District may request to review a copy of the proposed budget by appearing at the Office of the District Clerk, at 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, New York. Additionally, a statement of the estimated expenses for the ensuing year may be obtained by any resident in the District during the fourteen (14) days immediately preceding said election on the school district website https://www. babylon.k12.ny.us/, at the Babylon Public Library located at 24 South Carll Avenue, Babylon, NY during its normal hours of operation, at the School District Administrative Center, 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, New York, and at each of the following school buildings in which school is maintained between the hours of 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., prevailing time, except Saturdays, Sundays and holidays: Babylon Elementary School, Babylon Babylon Memorial Grade School, Babylon Babylon Junior-Senior High School, Babylon AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to Real Property Tax Law Section 495, the School District is required to attach to its proposed budget an exemption report.  Said exemption report, which will also become part of the final budget, will show how much of the total assessed value on the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt

from taxation, list every type of exemption granted, identified by statutory authority, and show: (a) the cumulative impact of each type of exemption expressed either as a dollar amount of assessed value or as a percentage of the total assessed value on the roll; (b) the cumulative amount expected to be received from recipients of each type of exemption as payments in lieu of taxes or other payments for municipal services; and (c) the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted.  The exemption report shall be posted on any bulletin board maintained by the District for public notices and on any website maintained by the District.  AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that applications for absentee and early mail ballots will be obtainable during school business hours at the office of the District Clerk beginning April 20, 2026. In accordance with Education Law §§ 2018-a and 2018-e, completed absentee and early mail ballot applications may not be received by the District Clerk earlier than thirty (30) days prior to the election, and must be received by the District Clerk at least seven (7) days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election, if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or to the agent named in the absentee or early mail ballot application. Absentee and early mail ballots must be received by the District Clerk not later than 5:00 p.m., prevailing time, on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. A list of persons to whom absentee ballots shall have been issued, and a list of all persons

Public Notices

to whom early mail voter’s ballots shall have been issued, will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the office of the District Clerk on and after May 14, 2026, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on weekdays prior to the day set for the annual election and on May 16, 2026, by advanced appointment by contacting the District Clerk at 631-893-7923 and on May 19, 2026, the day set for the election. Any qualified voter may, upon examination of such lists, file a written challenge of the qualifications as a voter of any person whose name appears on such lists, stating the reasons for such challenge. Any such written challenge shall be transmitted by the District Clerk or a designee of the Board of Education to the inspectors of election on election day.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN, that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the Babylon Union Free School District by requesting and returning a registration application to the District Clerk in person, or by email to lmcgarvey@babylonufsd. com or fax sent to 631-893-7935. The request for the registration application may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the registration application by either mail, fax or email. Military voter registration application forms must be received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 23, 2026. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are qualified voters of the

Babylon Union Free School District may request an application for a military ballot from the District Clerk and return such military ballot application to the District Clerk in person, or by email to lmcgarvey@ babylonufsd.com or fax sent to 631-8937935. In order for a military voter to be issued a military ballot, a valid military ballot application must be received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m., on April 23, 2026. Military ballot applications received in accordance with the foregoing will be processed in the same manner as a non-military ballot application under Section 2018-a of the Education Law. The application for military ballot may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the military ballot by mail, fax, or email. A military voter’s original military ballot application and military ballot must be returned by mail or in person to the office of the District Clerk at 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, New York along with the required signed affidavit by the voter. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military ballots shall be canvassed if they are received by the District Clerk before the close of polls on May 19, 2026, showing a cancellation mark of the United States Postal Service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States Government; or received not later than 5:00 p.m. on May 19, 2026, and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is ascertained

to be not later than the day before the election. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a rule adopted by the Board of Education in accordance with New York Education Law §2035, any referenda or propositions to change the number of Board of Education members, or a bond issue for capital improvements, or any other petition required by law to be stated in the Notice of Annual Meeting and Election must be filed with the District Clerk at 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, New York, not later than 5:00 p.m., prevailing time, on March 20, 2026. Any other petition, except those petitions required by law to be stated in the Notice of Annual Meeting and Election, must be filed with the District Clerk at 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, New York, no later than 5:00 p.m., prevailing time on April 20, 2026. All such petitions must be typed or printed in the English language; must be directed to the Clerk of the School District; must be signed by at least eighty-six (86) qualified voters of the District (86 representing 10% of the number of voters in the previous annual election); and must legibly state the name of each signer. However, the Board of Education will not entertain any petition to place before the voters any proposition the purpose of which is not within the powers of the voters to determine, nor any proposition or amendment which is contrary to law. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that those voters seeking information regarding this Budget Vote and Election in Spanish should

contact the Office of the District Clerk at 631-893-7923

Linda McGarvey District Clerk of the Board of Education

Babylon Union Free School District 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, New York 26-183 4/2, 9, 23, 5/7

AVISO DE AUDIENCIA PÚBLICA, VOTACIÓN PRESUPUESTARIA Y ELECCIÓN

DISTRITO ESCOLAR LIBRE DE BABYLON UNION

PUEBLO DE BABYLON, CONDADO DE SUFFOLK, NUEVA YORK

SE EMITE UN AVISO de que una audiencia pública de los votantes cualificados del Distrito Escolar Babylon Union Free del municipio de Babylon, condado de Suffolk, Nueva York, se celebrará en la biblioteca de la Babylon Junior-Senior High School, 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, Nueva York, en dicho distrito, el 11 de mayo de 2026 a las 19:30 horas, en el tiempo vigente, para la transacción de aquellos negocios autorizados por la Ley de Educación del Estado de Nueva York, incluyendo los siguientes elementos.

• Presentar a los votantes una declaración detallada (presupuesto propuesto) sobre la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para el curso escolar 2026-2027.

• Debatir todos los puntos aquí expuestos, que serán votados por máquina de votación, en las elecciones que se celebrarán el martes 19 de mayo de 2026, como se establece a continuación.

• Para tratar otros asuntos que puedan ocurrir adecuadamente antes de la reunión Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que dicha votación y elección se celebrarán el

martes 19 de mayo de 2026, a las 6:00 a.m., hora vigente, en el Babylon Junior-Senior High School, 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, Nueva York, momento en el que las urnas estarán abiertas de 6:00 a.m. a 9:00 p.m., hora vigente, para votar mediante máquinas de votación sobre los siguientes puntos: 1. Adoptar el presupuesto anual del Distrito Escolar para el año fiscal 2026-2027 y autorizar que la parte requerida se recaude, mediante impuestos, sobre la propiedad sujeta a impuestos del Distrito.

2. Considerar la siguiente propuesta presentada por la Junta de Educación: ¿Debe la Junta de Educación del Babylon UFSD estar autorizada a gastar fondos en una cantidad que no exceda un coste total estimado de 475.000 dólares de fondos ya depositados en el fondo de Reserva de Capital Babylon UFSD, establecido el 19 de mayo de 2015 (Fondo de Reserva) conforme a la Sección 3651 de la Ley de Educación para la reparación y rediseño/ampliación del aparcamiento en la escuela primaria Babylon. Además, ¿se autorizará la Junta de Educación del Babylon UFSD a gastar fondos en una cantidad que no exceda un coste total estimado de 200.000 dólares de fondos ya depositados en el fondo de reserva de capital de Babylon UFSD, establecido el 17 de mayo de 2016 (Fondo de Reserva) conforme a la Sección 3651 de la Ley de Educación para la retirada e instalación de un nuevo tanque de aceite, tuberías y sistema de monitorización en Babylon Memorial Primary School

Continued on next page

Continued from previous

3. Elegir a tres (3) miembros de la Junta de Educación de dicho distrito escolar para un mandato de tres (3) años que comienza el 1 de julio de 2026 y expira el 30 de junio de 2029.

Y SE DA UN AVISO

ADICIONAL de que las peticiones que nominen candidatos para el cargo de Miembro de la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar Libre Babylon Union deberán presentarse ante el Secretario del Distrito en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito, situada en 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, Nueva York, a más tardar el 20 de abril, 2026 entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 5:00 p.m., hora predominante. Todas las peticiones de nominación deben estar firmadas por al menos 25 votantes cualificados del Distrito (representando la mayor parte del 25 o el 2% del número de votantes que votaron en la elección anual anterior); deben indicar el nombre y la residencia de cada firmante, y el nombre y la residencia del candidato. Las vacantes en la Junta de Educación no se considerarán cargos separados o específicos; los candidatos se presentan en la categoría de votos libres.

Y SE DA MÁS AVISO de que el registro personal de votantes es obligatorio ya sea conforme a la Ley de Educación de Nueva York §2014 o conforme al Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral del Estado de Nueva York. Si un votante se ha registrado hasta ahora conforme a la Ley de Educación de Nueva York §2014 y ha votado en alguna reunión anual o especial de distrito en los últimos cuatro (4) años naturales, dicho

votante es elegible para votar en esta elección; si un votante está registrado y es elegible para votar conforme al Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral del Estado de Nueva York, dicho votante también es elegible para votar en esta elección. Todas las demás personas que deseen votar deben registrarse. Los votantes podrán registrarse en cualquier día escolar anterior al 7 de mayo de 2026, en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito, situada en 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, Nueva York, entre las 9 a.m. y las 4 p.m., hora predominante, para añadir cualquier nombre adicional a los registros que se usen en dicha elección, momento en el que cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre sea incluido en dichos registros siempre que en la reunión de la Junta de Registro se sabe, o se ha probado a satisfacción de la Junta de Registro, que tiene derecho a votar en la audiencia pública o elección para la que se preparen dichos registros, y que los registros así preparados conforme a la Ley de Educación de Nueva York §2014 y la lista de registro preparada por la Junta Electoral del Condado de Suffolk se archivarán en la Oficina del Distrito Secretario del Distrito Escolar, ubicado en 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, Nueva York, y estará abierto para la inspección de cualquier votante cualificado del Distrito entre los días laborables entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 4:00 p.m., hora vigente, a partir del 14 de mayo de 2026, y el sábado mediante cita preestablecida, excepto los domingos; Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que, conforme a la Ley de Educación de Nueva

York §2014, la Junta de Registro se reunirá el 19 de mayo de 2026 en la Babylon JuniorSenior High School, situada en 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, Nueva York, entre las 6:00 a.m. y las 9:00 p.m., hora vigente, para preparar el Registro del Distrito Escolar que se utilizará en la reunión anual y elección que se celebrará en 2027, y cualquier reunión extraordinaria que pueda celebrarse después de la preparación de dicho Registro, en la que cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se incluya en dicho Registro, siempre que en dicha reunión de la Junta de Registro se sepa o se demuestre a satisfacción de dicha Junta de Registro que tiene derecho a votar en la reunión o elección escolar para la cual dicho Registro está preparado.

Y SE DA UN AVISO

ADICIONAL de que los votantes cualificados con discapacidad que soliciten información sobre el acceso a los colegios electorales pueden, antes del día de la votación, contactar con el Secretario del Distrito en el 631-893-7923 para obtener información sobre accesibilidad.

Y SE DA UN AVISO

ADICIONAL de que, a partir de siete (7) días inmediatamente antes de la audiencia pública presupuestaria del 11 de mayo de 2026, cualquier residente del Distrito podrá solicitar revisar una copia del presupuesto propuesto compartiendo en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito, en 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, Nueva York. Además, cualquier residente del distrito durante los catorce (14) días inmediatamente anteriores a dicha elección podrá obtener un extracto de los gastos estimados para el año

Public Notices

siguiente, en la página web del distrito escolar https://www. babylon.k12.ny.us/, en la Biblioteca Pública de Babylon, ubicada en 24 South Carll Avenue, Babylon, NY, durante su horario normal de funcionamiento. en el Centro Administrativo del Distrito Escolar, 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, Nueva York, y en cada uno de los siguientes edificios escolares donde se mantiene la escuela entre las 9:00 y las 16:00, hora predominante, excepto sábados, domingos y festivos: Escuela Primaria Babylon, Babylon Escuela Primaria Memorial Babylon, Babylon Escuela Secundaria Babylon, Babylon Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que, conforme a la Sección 495 de la Ley de Impuestos sobre la Propiedad Inmobiliaria, el Distrito Escolar está obligado a adjuntar a su presupuesto propuesto un informe de exención.  Dicho informe de exención, que también formará parte del presupuesto final, mostrará cuánto del valor total tasado en el registro final de evaluación utilizado en el proceso presupuestario está exento de impuestos, listará todos los tipos de exenciones concedidas identificadas por la autoridad legal y mostrará: (a) el impacto acumulativo de cada tipo de exención expresado ya sea como un importe en dólares de valor impositivado o como un porcentaje del valor total impuesto sobre el rollo; (b) la cantidad acumulada que se espera recibir de los beneficiarios de cada tipo de exención como pagos en lugar de impuestos u otros pagos por servicios municipales; y (c) el impacto acumulativo de todas las exencio-

nes concedidas.  El informe de exención se publicará en cualquier tablón de anuncios mantenido por el Distrito para los avisos públicos y en cualquier sitio web gestionado por el Distrito.  Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL DE QUE LAS SOLICITUDES PARA VOTOS POR CORREO ANTICIPADO Y POR CORREO ESTARÁN DISPONIBLES DURANTE EL HORARIO LABORAL ESCOLAR EN LA OFICINA DEL Secretario del Distrito a partir del 20 de abril de 2026. De acuerdo con la Ley de Educación §§ 2018-a y 2018-e, las solicitudes completadas de voto por correo y por correo anticipado no pueden ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito antes de treinta (30) días antes de la elección, y deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito al menos siete (7) días antes de la elección si la papeleta se va a enviar al votante, o el día antes de la elección, si la papeleta debe entregarse personalmente al votante o al agente nombrado en la solicitud de voto por correo o por correo anticipado. Las papeletas por correo y por correo anticipado deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 17:00 horas, hora vigente, del martes 19 de mayo de 2026. Una lista de personas a las que se hayan emitido papeletas de voto por correo, y una lista de todas las personas a quienes se hayan entregado papeletas anticipadas de votantes por correo, estará disponible para su inspección para votantes cualificados del Distrito en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a partir del 14 de mayo de 2026,

entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 4:00 p.m. los días laborables previos al día fijado para la elección anual y en mayo 16 de 2026, con cita previa contactando con el Secretario del Distrito en el 631-893-7923 y el 19 de mayo de 2026, fecha fijada para la elección. Cualquier votante cualificado podrá, tras examinar dichas listas, presentar una impugnación por escrito de las cualificaciones como votante de cualquier persona cuyo nombre aparezca en dichas listas, exponiendo los motivos de dicha impugnación. Cualquier impugnación escrita será transmitida por el Secretario del Distrito o por un representante de la Junta de Educación a los inspectores de elecciones el día de la elección.

Y SE DA UN AVISO

ADICIONAL de que los votantes militares que no estén actualmente registrados pueden solicitar registrarse como votantes cualificados en el Distrito Escolar Babylon Union Free solicitando y enviando una solicitud de registro al Secretario del Distrito en persona, o por correo electrónico a lmcgarvey@babylonufsd. com o por fax al 631893-7935. La solicitud de registro puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar para recibir la solicitud de registro por correo, fax o correo electrónico. Los formularios de solicitud de registro de votantes militares deben recibirse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 17:00 horas del 23 de abril de 2026.

Y SE DA UN AVISO

ADICIONAL de que los votantes militares que sean votantes cualificados del Distrito Escolar Babylon Union Free pueden solicitar una solicitud de papeleta militar al

Secretario del Distrito y devolver dicha solicitud de papeleta militar al Secretario del Distrito en persona, o por correo electrónico a lmcgarvey@babylonufsd.com o por fax al 631-893-7935. Para que un votante militar reciba una papeleta militar, debe recibirse una solicitud válida de papeleta militar en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 17:00 horas del 23 de abril de 2026. Las solicitudes de papeleta militar recibidas conforme a lo anterior se tramitarán de la misma manera que una solicitud de papeleta no militar conforme a la Sección 2018-a de la Ley de Educación. La solicitud de la papeleta militar puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar para recibir la papeleta militar por correo, fax o correo electrónico. La solicitud original de la papeleta militar y la papeleta militar de un votante militar deben ser devueltas por correo o en persona a la oficina del Secretario del Distrito en 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, Nueva York, junto con la declaración jurada firmada requerida por el votante.

Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que las papeletas militares deberán ser consultadas si el Secretario del Distrito las recibe antes del cierre de las urnas el 19 de mayo de 2026, mostrando una marca de cancelación del Servicio Postal de los Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o mostrando una avalación fechada de recepción por otra agencia del Gobierno de los Estados Unidos; o recibidas a más tardar a las 17:00 horas del 19 de mayo, 2026, y firmado y fechado por el votante militar

y un testigo, con una fecha que se determina no más tarde que el día anterior a las elecciones.

Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que, conforme a una norma adoptada por la Junta de Educación conforme a la Ley de Educación de Nueva York §2035, cualquier referéndum o propuesta para cambiar el número de miembros de la Junta de Educación, o una emisión de bonos para mejoras de capital, o cualquier otra petición que la ley requiera constar en el Aviso de Asamblea Anual y Elección debe presentarse ante el Secretario del Distrito en 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, Nueva York, a más tardar a las 17:00 horas, hora vigente, el 20 de marzo de 2026. Cualquier otra petición, excepto aquellas que la ley exige que consten en el Aviso de Reunión Anual y Elección, debe presentarse ante el Secretario del Distrito en 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, Nueva York, a más tardar a las 17:00 horas, hora vigente el 20 de abril de 2026. Todas estas peticiones deben estar mecanografiadas o impresas en inglés; debe dirigirse al Secretario del Distrito Escolar; deben estar firmados por al menos ochenta y seis (86) votantes cualificados del Distrito (86 representando el 10% del número de votantes en la elección anual anterior); y debe indicar legiblemente el nombre de cada firmante. Sin embargo, la Junta de Educación no admitirá ninguna petición para presentar ante los votantes ninguna propuesta cuyo propósito no esté dentro de las competencias de los votantes, ni ninguna propuesta

Continued on next page

April 23, 2026 —

Continued from previous page o enmienda que sea contraria a la ley. Y SE DA UN AVISO

ADICIONAL de que aquellos votantes que busquen información sobre esta votación presupuestaria y elección en español deben contactar con la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito en el 631893-7923

Linda McGarvey Secretario del Distrito de la Junta de Educación

Distrito Escolar Babylon Union Free 50 Avenida del Ferrocarril, Babylon, Nueva York

26-184 4/2, 9, 23, 5/7

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF Suffolk, U.S. Bank NA, Successor Trustee to Bank of America, National Association, Successor by Merger to Lasalle Bank NA as Trustee for Washington Mutual Mortgage PassThrough Certificates WMalt Series 2006-7, Plaintiff, vs. Sean P. Reis a/k/a Sean Reis, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on November 22, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on May 27, 2026 at 8:45 a.m., premises known as 349 Neptune Avenue, West Babylon, NY 11704. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at North Babylon, in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0100, Section 145.00,

Block 04.00 and Lot 086.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $512,782.33 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #623364/2018.

David H. Besso, Esq., Referee Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, LLC, 10 Bank Street, Suite 700, White Plains, New York 10606, Attorneys for Plaintiff 26-231. 4/23, 30, 5/7, 14

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF Suffolk, U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, as Indenture Trustee on behalf of and with respect to AJAX Mortgage Loan Trust 2022-B, Mortgage-Backed Securities, Series 2022B, Plaintiff, vs. Adam J. McKeon, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on January 28, 2025 and an Order Extending Sale Deadline and Other Relief duly entered on March 18, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on May 28, 2026 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 836 7th Street, Babylon a/k/a West Babylon, NY 11704. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Ezra Park, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0100, Section 132.00, Block 02.00 and Lot 132.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $479,244.99 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #601523/2024.

Pamela J. Greene, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 234408-1 26-232. 4/23, 30, 5/7, 14

SUPREME

COURT COUNTY OF SUF-

FOLK BABYLON.

GITSIT SOLU -

TIONS LLC, Plaintiff against ARIA 1026 CAPITAL LLC, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated July 8, 2024 and entered on July 11, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps of the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY on May 28, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. premises situate, lying and being North Amityville, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the Northerly side of Hatch (Hatcher) Court, distant 294.00 feet Easterly from the intersection of the Easterly side of Broadway and the Northerly side of said Hatch Court as said Broadway was originally laid out (291.53 feet Easterly from the East side of Broadway as it existed February 25, 1964) as measured along the Northerly side of said Hatch Court; being a plot 86.33 feet by 78.11 feet by 90.42 feet by 78.00 feet. Block: 3 Lot: 12 Said premises known as 9 HATCHER COURT, AMITYVILLE, NY 11701 Approximate amount of lien $500,000.00 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold

Public Notices

subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index Number 609150/2022. TRACY K. PALUMBO, ESQ., Referee McGovern & Amodio, LLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 2 William Street, Suite 306, White Plains, NY 10601

26-233. 4/23, 30, 5/7, 14

Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-0240-26108729 for beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 31455 Main Rd, Cutchogue, NY 11935, County of Suffolk, for on premises consumption at MJJ Pizza LLC. 26-237. 4/23, 30

NOTICE OF FORMATION of K&L seafood and BBq llc. Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on (02/14/2026) Office location: Nassau County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to (170 Mooney Pond Rd, Selden NY, 11784). Purpose: any lawful act.

26-239. 4/23, 30, 5/7, 14, 21, 28

NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS BOARD OF EDUCATION

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that tentative plans and specifications for 2025-2026 Capital Improvement Program are available for review and inspection for informational purposes only. Complete digital

sets of the Contract documents may be obtained online (with a free user account) as a download for a nonrefundable fee of One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) at the following website www. jaqplanroom.com beginning on APRIL 21, 2026 thru May 19, 2026.. Optionally, in lieu of digital copies, hard copies may be obtained directly from Island Digital Reprographics, 200 Broadhollow Road, Suite One, Farmingdale, New York 11735 (631- 753-3000) upon a deposit of one hundred ($100.00) Dollars for each complete set. Checks for deposits shall be made payable to WEST BABYLON UFSD and may be uncertified. Said deposit will be returned upon receipt of plans and specifications in good condition with no handwritten notations thereon. These plans and specifications are subject to voter approval and may change as a result thereof. In the case approval is not given, sealed bids will not be advertised, therefore. When voter approval is obtained, the School District will appropriately notice bidders in accordance with the law.

Dated: April 14, 2026 By Order of the BOARD OF EDUCATION 26-240. 4/23

NOTICE OF PUBLIC AND/OR INFORMATIONAL HEARINGS BY THE TOWN OF BABYLON PLANNING BOARD

Pursuant to Chapter 186, Site Plan Review, and Chapter 213, Zoning, of the Babylon Town Code and Section 276 of the Town Law, notice is hereby given that the Town of Babylon Planning

Board will hold public and/or informational hearings(s) at the Babylon Town Hall, Town Board Room, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York, on the Monday, April 27, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. prevailing time or as soon thereafter as can be heard to consider the following application(s): PUBLIC HEARING/ SITE PLAN REVIEW

JOB# HPLN-44 (2531A); Skidmore Rd, LLC.: SCTM# 0100093-02-041: Zone – G Industry: SEQRAUnlisted Action, Uncoordinated Review: Applicant proposes to demolish existing structure to construct a multi-tenant industrial building (4,738sf footprint) with 5 garage spaces, accessory offices, and storage mezzanines, along with associated site improvements.: Property is located on the southeast corner of South Skidmore Road and De Kay Place, Deer Park, Suffolk County, Town of Babylon, New York PUBLIC HEARING/ BAR/RESTAURANT

JOB# PLAN-26-1; Fore and Pour: SCTM# 0100-222-01-001.002: Zone – E Business: SEQRA - Type II Action: The applicant is proposing to change the use of a 6,750sf tenant space from a retail use to a virtual golf simulator and bar, along with associated site improvements.: Property is located on the northeast corner of Montauk Highway and Park Place, Suffolk County, Town of Babylon, New York PUBLIC HEARING/SITE PLAN REVIEW/BAR/RESTAURANT

JOB# PLAN-26-4; Cava: SCTM# 0100048-02-014.002: Zone – G Industry (Light): SEQRA - Type II Ac-

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK TOWD POINT MORTGAGE TRUST 2019-4, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE, -againstMARGARET HAYES A/K/A MARGARET E. HAYES, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on November 25, 2024, wherein TOWD POINT MORTGAGE TRUST 2019-4, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE is the Plaintiff and MARGARET HAYES A/K/A MARGARET E. HAYES, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the BABYLON TOWN HALL, 200 EAST SUNRISE HIGHWAY, NORTH LINDENHURST, NY 11757, on May 28, 2026 at 3:30PM, premises known as 103 NORTH 18TH STREET, WHEATLEY HEIGHTS, NY 11798; and the following tax map identification: 0100-039.00-02.00-110.002. ALL THAT CERTAIN PARCEL OF LAND SITUATE IN THE CITY OF WHEATLEY HEIGHTS, TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 624057/2023. Joshua P. Blumberg, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/ CLERK DIRECTIVES.

26-238. 4/23, 30, 5/7, 14

tion: The applicant is proposing interior alterations to an existing 1,142sf tenant space into a 40-seat Cava restaurant.: Property is located on the west side of Broadhollow Road, 250' n/o Michael Drive, Suffolk County, Town of Babylon, New York

All interested persons should appear at the above time and place by order of Patrick Halpin, Chairperson of the Planning Board, Town of Babylon, North Lindenhurst, Suffolk County, New York

PRINTING INSTRUCTIONS

Babylon Beacon: 04/23/2026 26-241 - 4/23

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING, BUDGET VOTE AND ELECTION

NORTH BABYLON UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT

NORTH BABYLON, NEW YORK, 11703

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that a public hearing of the qualified voters of the North Babylon Union Free School District, North Babylon, Suffolk County, New York, will be held at 1 Phelps Lane, North Babylon, NY 11703, in said District on May 7, 2026, 7:00 pm, prevailing time, for the transaction of such business as is authorized by the New York State Education Law, including the following items.

• Presentation of the budget document.

• To discuss all of the items herein set forth, to be voted upon by voting machine, at the election to be held on May 19, 2026 as hereinafter set forth.

• To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that said vote and election will be held on May 19, 2026 at 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM prevailing time, in the school building located in such district as enumerated below: District No. 1:

NORTH BABYLON HIGH SCHOOL 1 PHELPS LANE, NORTH BABYLON, NY at which time the polls will be open from 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM, prevailing time, to vote by voting machines upon the following items: 1. To adopt the annual budget of the School District for the fiscal year 2026-2027 and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the District.

2. To elect THREE (3) members of the Board of Education for three (3) year terms commencing July 1, 2026 and expiring on June 30, 2029.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that petitions nominating candidates for the office of Member of the Board of Education of the North Babylon School District shall be filed with the District Clerk of said School District at the District Clerk’s office, 5 Jardine Pace, North Babylon, NY 11703 not later than April 20, 2026, between 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, prevailing time. All nominating petitions must be signed by 25 (representing the greater of 25 or 2% of the number of voters who voted in the previous annual election); must state the name and residence of each signer, and must state the name and residence of the candidate. Two (3) vacancies on the Board of Education shall not be considered separate, specific offices; candidates run at large.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that personal registration of voters is required either pursuant to New York Education Law §2014 or pursuant to Article 5 of the New York State Election Law. If a voter has heretofore registered pursuant to New York Education Law §2014 and has voted at any annual or special district meeting within the past four (4) calendar years, such voter is eligible to vote at this election; if a voter is registered and eligible to vote pursuant to Article 5 of the New York State Election Law, such voter is also eligible to vote at this election. All other persons who wish to vote must

Public Notices

register. Voters may register on any school day prior to May 12, 2026, at the 5 Jardine Place, North Babylon NY 11703, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., prevailing time, to add any additional names to the registers to be used at the aforesaid election, at which time any person will be entitled to have her or his name placed on such registers provided that at the meeting of the Board of Registration he or she is known, or proven to the satisfaction of the Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at such public hearing or election for which such registers are prepared, and that the registers so prepared pursuant to New York Education Law §2014 and the registration list prepared by the Board of Elections of Suffolk County will be filed in the Office of the District Clerk of the School District, 5 Jardine Place, North Babylon, NY 11703, and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District on weekdays between the hours of 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, prevailing time, on and after May 12, 2026, and Saturday by pre-arranged appointment, except Sunday; AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that pursuant to New York Education Law §2014, the Board of Registration shall meet on May 19, 2026, at the North Babylon High School, 1 Phelps Lane, North Babylon, NY 11703, between the hours of 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM, prevailing time, to prepare the Register of the School District to be used at the annual meeting and election that is to be held in 2026, and any special meeting that may be held after the prepara-

tion of said Register, at which time any person will be entitled to have her or his name placed on such Register, provided that at such meeting of the Board of Registration he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of such Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at the school meeting or election for which such Register is prepared.

AND FURTHER

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that qualified voters with disabilities who seek information about access to polling places may, in advance of the day of the vote, contact the District Clerk at 631-620-7011 for information about accessibility. AND FURTHER

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that pursuant to Education Law §2017, the Board of Education has created ONE (1) election district, said district being bounded and described as follows: District No. 1: North Babylon High School, 1 Phelps Lane, North Babylon, NY located at the corner of Deer Park Ave and Phelps Lane, North Babylon. AND FURTHER

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that beginning seven (7) days immediately preceding the May 7, 2026, public budget hearing, any resident in the District may request to review a copy of the proposed budget by appearing at the Office of the District Clerk, 5 Jardine Place, North Babylon, NY 11703. Additionally, a statement of the estimated expenses for the ensuing year may be obtained by any resident in the District during the fourteen (14) days immediately preceding said election on the school district website: www.northbabylonschools.net,

at the North Babylon Public Library during its normal hours of operation, located at 815 Deer Park Ave. North Babylon, NY 11703, at the School District Administrative Office, 5 Jardine Place, North Babylon, NY 11703, and at each of the following school buildings in which school is maintained between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., prevailing time, except Saturdays, Sundays and holidays: North Babylon High School, Robert Moses Middle School, Marion G. Vedder Elementary, Belmont Elementary, Parliament Place Elementary, William E. DeLuca Elementary, and Woods Road Elementary.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to Real Property Tax Law Section 495, the School District is required to attach to its proposed budget an exemption report.  Said exemption report, which will also become part of the final budget, will show how much of the total assessed value on the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt from taxation, list every type of exemption granted, identified by statutory authority, and show: (a) the cumulative impact of each type of exemption expressed either as a dollar amount of assessed value or as a percentage of the total assessed value on the roll; (b) the cumulative amount expected to be received from recipients of each type of exemption as payments in lieu of taxes or other payments for municipal services; and (c) the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted.  The exemption report shall be posted on any bulletin board maintained by the District

for public notices and on any website maintained by the District.  AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that applications for absentee and early mail ballots will be obtainable during school business hours at the office of the District Clerk beginning April 20, 2026. In accordance with Education Law §§ 2018-a and 2018-e, completed absentee and early mail ballot applications may not be received by the District Clerk earlier than thirty (30) days prior to the election, and must be received by the District Clerk at least seven (7) days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election, if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter or to the agent named in the absentee or early mail ballot application. Absentee and early mail ballots must be received by the District Clerk not later than 5:00 p.m., prevailing time, on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. A list of persons to whom absentee ballots shall have been issued, and a list of all persons to whom early mail voter’s ballots shall have been issued, will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the office of the District Clerk on and after May 14, 2026, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on weekdays prior to the day set for the annual election and on May 14, 2026, by advanced appointment by contacting the District Clerk at 631-620-7011 and on May 19, 2026, the day set for the election. Any qualified voter may, upon examination of such lists, file a written challenge of the qualifications as a voter of any person whose name appears

on such lists, stating the reasons for such challenge. Any such written challenge shall be transmitted by the District Clerk or a designee of the Board of Education to the inspectors of election on election day.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the North Babylon Union Free School District by requesting and returning a registration application to the District Clerk in person, or by email to districtclerk@northbabylonschools.net or fax sent to 631-3213295. The request for the registration application may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the registration application by either mail, fax or email. Military voter registration application forms must be received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 13, 2026.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are qualified voters of the North Babylon Union Free School District may request an application for a military ballot from the District Clerk and return such military ballot application to the District Clerk in person, or by email to districtclerk@ northbabylonschools. net or fax sent to 631321-3295. In order for a military voter to be issued a military ballot, a valid military ballot application must be received in the office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m., on April 13, 2026. Military ballot applications received in accordance with the foregoing will be processed in the same

manner as a non-military ballot application under Section 2018-a of the Education Law. The application for military ballot may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the military ballot by mail, fax, or email. A military voter’s original military ballot application and military ballot must be returned by mail or in person to the office of the District Clerk at 5 Jardine Place, North Babylon, NY 11703 along with the required signed affidavit by the voter. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military ballots shall be canvassed if they are received by the District Clerk before the close of polls on May 19, 2026 showing a cancellation mark of the United States Postal Service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States Government; or received not later than 5:00 p.m. on May 19, 2026, and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is ascertained to be not later than the day before the election. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a rule adopted by the Board of Education in accordance with New York Education Law §2035, any referenda or propositions to change the number of Board of Education members, or a bond issue for capital improvements, or any other petition required by law to be stated in the Notice of Annual Meeting and Election must be filed with the District Clerk at 5 Jardine Place, North Continued on next page

April 23, 2026 —

Continued from previous page Babylon, NY 11703, not later than 5:00 p.m., prevailing time, on March 19, 2026. Any other petition, except those petitions required by law to be stated in the Notice of Annual Meeting and Election, must be filed with the District Clerk at 5 Jardine Place, North Babylon, NY 117013, no later than 5:00 p.m., prevailing time on April 20, 2026. All such petitions must be typed or printed in the English language; must be directed to the Clerk of the School District; must be signed by at least Forty-Five (45) qualified voters of the District (representing the greater of 25 or 5% of the number of voters who voted in the previous annual election); and must legibly state the name of each signer. However, the Board of Education will not entertain any petition to place before the voters any proposition the purpose of which is not within the powers of the voters to determine, nor any proposition or amendment which is contrary to law. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that those voters seeking information regarding this Budget Vote and Election in Spanish should contact the Office of the District Clerk at 631-620-7011.

Erin Aristy District Clerk of the Board of Education

North Babylon Union Free School District 5 Jardine Place, North Babylon, NY 11703

Approved: March 19, 2026

26-201 4/9,16,23, 5/7

AVISO DE AUDIENCIA PÚBLICA, VOTACIÓN PRESUPUESTARIA Y ELECCIÓN

DISTRITO ESCOLAR NORTH BABYLON UNION FREE BABILONIA NORTE, NUEVA YORK, 11703

SE EMITE UN AVISO de que se celebrará una audiencia pública de los votantes cualificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de North Babylon Union, North Babylon, condado de Suffolk, Nueva York, en 1 Phelps Lane, North Babylon, NY 11703, en dicho Distrito, el 7 de mayo de 2026, a las 19:00 horas, hora vigente, para la transacción de los negocios autorizados por la Ley de Educación del Estado de Nueva York, incluyendo los siguientes elementos.

• Presentación del documento presupuestario.

• Debatir todos los puntos aquí expuestos, que serán votados por máquina de votación, en las elecciones que se celebrarán el 19 de mayo de 2026, tal y como se establece a continuación.

• Para tratar otros asuntos que puedan ocurrir adecuadamente antes de la reunión

Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que dicha votación y elección se celebrarán el 19 de mayo de 2026 de 7:00 a 21:00 horas, en el edificio escolar situado en el distrito que se enumera a continuación:

Distrito # 1: INSTITUTO NORTH BABYLON 1 PHELPS

LANE, NORTH BABYLON, NY en ese momento, las urnas estarán abiertas de 7:00 a 21:00, hora vigente, para votar mediante máquinas de votación sobre los siguientes puntos:

1. Adoptar el presupuesto anual del Distrito Escolar para el año fiscal 2026-2027 y autorizar que la parte requerida se recaude, mediante impuestos, sobre la propiedad sujeta a impuestos del Distrito.

2. Elegir TRES (3) miembros de la Junta de Educación para mandatos de tres (3) años que comiencen el 1 de julio de 2026 y expiran el 30 de junio de 2029.

Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que las peticiones que nominen candidatos para el cargo de Miembro de la Junta de Educación del Distrito Escolar de North Babylon deberán presentarse ante el Secretario del Distrito en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito, 5 Jardine Pace, North Babylon, NY 11703, a más tardar el 20 de abril de 2026, entre las 8:00 y las 17:00, Prevaleciendo. Todas las peticiones de nominación deben estar firmadas por 25 personas (que representan el mayor de 25 o el 2% del número de votantes que votaron en la elección anual anterior); deben indicar el nombre y la residencia de cada firmante, y el nombre y la residencia del candidato. Dos (3) vacantes en la Junta de Educación no se considerarán cargos separados y específicos; los candidatos se presentan en la categoría de votos libres. Y SE DA MÁS AVISO de que el registro personal de votantes es obligatorio ya sea conforme a la Ley de Educación de Nueva York §2014 o conforme al Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral del Estado de Nueva York. Si un votante se ha registrado hasta ahora conforme a la Ley de Educación de Nueva York §2014 y ha votado en alguna

Public Notices

reunión anual o especial de distrito en los últimos cuatro (4) años naturales, dicho votante es elegible para votar en esta elección; si un votante está registrado y es elegible para votar conforme al Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral del Estado de Nueva York, dicho votante también es elegible para votar en esta elección. Todas las demás personas que deseen votar deben registrarse. Los votantes pueden registrarse en cualquier día escolar anterior al 12 de mayo de 2026, en el 5 Jardine Place, North Babylon NY 11703, entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 4:00 p.m., hora vigente, para añadir cualquier nombre adicional a los registros que se utilicen en dicha elección, momento en el que cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se incluya en dichos registros, siempre que en la reunión de la Junta de Registro se sabe, o se ha demostrado a satisfacción de la Junta de Registro, que tiene derecho a votar en la audiencia pública o elección para la que se preparen dichos registros, y que los registros así preparados conforme a la Ley de Educación de Nueva York §2014 y la lista de registro preparada por la Junta Electoral del Condado de Suffolk se archivarán en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar, 5 Jardine Place, North Babylon, NY 11703, y estará abierto para inspección por cualquier votante cualificado del Distrito entre los días laborables entre las 8:00 y las 16:00, hora vigente, a partir del 12 de mayo de 2026 y el sábado con cita previa acordada, excepto el domingo; Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que, conforme a la Ley de

Educación de Nueva York §2014, la Junta de Registro se reunirá el 19 de mayo de 2026 en el North Babylon High School, 1 Phelps Lane, North Babylon, NY 11703, entre las 7:00 y las 9:00 PM, hora vigente, para preparar el Registro del Distrito Escolar que será utilizado en la reunión anual y elección que se celebrará en 2026, y cualquier reunión extraordinaria que pueda celebrarse después de la preparación de dicho Registro, en la que cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se incluya en dicho Registro, siempre que en dicha reunión de la Junta de Registro se sepa o se demuestre a satisfacción de dicha Junta de Registro que tiene derecho a votar en la reunión o elección escolar para la cual dicho Registro está preparado.

Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que los votantes cualificados con discapacidad que soliciten información sobre el acceso a los colegios electorales pueden, antes del día de la votación, contactar con el Secretario del Distrito en el 631-620-7011 para obtener información sobre accesibilidad.

Y SE DA MÁS AVISO de que , conforme a la Ley de Educación §2017, la Junta de Educación ha creado UN (1) distrito electoral, dicho distrito delimitado y descrito de la siguiente manera: Distrito nº 1: North Babylon High School, 1 Phelps Lane, North Babylon, NY, situado en la esquina de Deer Park Ave y Phelps Lane, North Babylon.

Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que, a partir de siete (7) días inmediatamente anteriores a la audiencia pública presupuestaria del 7 de mayo de 2026,

cualquier residente del Distrito podrá solicitar revisar una copia del presupuesto propuesto compartiendo en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito, 5 Jardine Place, North Babylon, NY 11703. Además, cualquier residente del distrito durante los catorce (14) días inmediatamente previos a dicha elección podrá obtener un estado de los gastos estimados para el año siguiente, en la página web del distrito escolar: www. northbabylonschools. net, en la Biblioteca Pública de North Babylon durante su horario normal de funcionamiento, ubicada en 815 Deer Park Ave. North Babylon, NY 11703, en la Oficina Administrativa del Distrito Escolar, 5 Jardine Place, North Babylon, NY 11703, y en cada uno de los siguientes edificios escolares donde se mantiene la escuela entre las 9:00 y las 15:00, hora predominante, excepto sábados, domingos y festivos: North Babylon High School, Robert Moses Middle School, Marion G. Vedder Elementary, Belmont Elementary, Parliament Place Elementary, William E. DeLuca Elementary y Woods Road Elementary. Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que, conforme a la Sección 495 de la Ley de Impuestos sobre la Propiedad Inmobiliaria, el Distrito Escolar está obligado a adjuntar a su presupuesto propuesto un informe de exención.  Dicho informe de exención, que también formará parte del presupuesto final, mostrará cuánto del valor total tasado en el registro final de evaluación utilizado en el proceso presupuestario está exento de impuestos, listará todos los tipos de

exenciones concedidas identificadas por la autoridad legal y mostrará: (a) el impacto acumulativo de cada tipo de exención expresado ya sea como un importe en dólares de valor impositivado o como un porcentaje del valor total impuesto sobre el rollo; (b) la cantidad acumulada que se espera recibir de los beneficiarios de cada tipo de exención como pagos en lugar de impuestos u otros pagos por servicios municipales; y (c) el impacto acumulativo de todas las exenciones concedidas.  El informe de exención se publicará en cualquier tablón de anuncios mantenido por el Distrito para los avisos públicos y en cualquier sitio web gestionado por el Distrito.  Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL DE QUE LAS SOLICITUDES PARA VOTOS POR CORREO ANTICIPADO Y POR CORREO ESTARÁN DISPONIBLES DURANTE EL HORARIO LABORAL ESCOLAR EN LA OFICINA DEL Secretario del Distrito a partir del 20 de abril de 2026. De acuerdo con la Ley de Educación §§ 2018-a y 2018-e, las solicitudes completadas de voto por correo y por correo anticipado no pueden ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito antes de treinta (30) días antes de la elección, y deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito al menos siete (7) días antes de la elección si la papeleta se va a enviar al votante, o el día antes de la elección, si la papeleta debe entregarse personalmente al votante o al agente nombrado en la solicitud de voto por correo o por correo anticipado. Las papeletas por correo y por correo anticipado deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 17:00 horas, hora vigente, del martes 19 de mayo de 2026. Una lista de personas a las que se hayan emitido papeletas de voto por correo, y una lista de todas las personas a quienes se hayan entregado papeletas anticipadas de votantes por correo, estará disponible para su inspección para votantes cualificados del Distrito en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a partir del 14 de mayo de 2026, entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 4:00 p.m. los días laborables previos al día fijado para la elección anual y en mayo 14 de 2026, con cita previa contactando con el Secretario del Distrito en el 631-620-7011 y el 19 de mayo de 2026, fecha fijada para las elecciones. Cualquier votante cualificado podrá, tras examinar dichas listas, presentar una impugnación por escrito de las cualificaciones como votante de cualquier persona cuyo nombre aparezca en dichas listas, exponiendo los motivos de dicha impugnación. Cualquier impugnación escrita será transmitida por el Secretario del Distrito o por un representante de la Junta de Educación a los inspectores de elecciones el día de la elección. Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que los votantes militares que no estén actualmente registrados pueden solicitar registrarse como votantes cualificados en el Distrito Escolar Libre de North Babylon Union solicitando y enviando una solicitud de registro al Secretario del Distrito en persona, o por correo electrónico

Continued on next page

Public Notices

Continued from previous page a districtclerk@northbabylonschools.net o enviar un fax al 631321-3295. La solicitud de registro puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar para recibir la solicitud de registro por correo, fax o correo electrónico. Los formularios de solicitud de registro de votantes militares deben recibirse en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 17:00 horas del 13 de abril de 2026. Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que los votantes militares que sean votantes cualificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de la Unión de North Babylon pueden solicitar una solicitud de papeleta militar al Secretario del Distrito y devolver dicha solicitud de voto militar al Secretario del Distrito en persona, o por correo electrónico a districtclerk@northbabylonschools.net o enviar un fax al 631321-3295. Para que un votante militar reciba una papeleta militar, debe recibirse una solicitud válida de voto militar en la oficina del Secretario del Distrito a más tardar a las 17:00 horas del 13 de abril de 2026. Las solicitudes de papeleta militar recibidas conforme a lo anterior se tramitarán de la misma manera que una solicitud de papeleta no militar conforme a la Sección 2018-a de la Ley de Educación. La solicitud de la papeleta militar puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar para recibir la papeleta militar por correo, fax o correo electrónico. La solicitud original de voto militar de un votante militar y la papeleta militar deben ser devueltas por correo o en persona a la oficina del Secretario del

Distrito en 5 Jardine Place, North Babylon, NY 11703, junto con la declaración jurada firmada requerida por el votante.

Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL DE QUE LAS PAPELETAS MILITARES

DEBERÁN SER CONSULTADAS

SI EL Secretario del Distrito las recibe antes del cierre de las urnas el 19 de mayo de 2026 mostrando una marca de cancelación del Servicio Postal de los Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o mostrando una avalación fechada de recepción por otra agencia del Gobierno de los Estados Unidos; o recibidas a más tardar a las 17:00 horas del 19 de mayo, 2026, y firmado y fechado por el votante militar y un testigo, con una fecha que se determina no más tarde que el día anterior a las elecciones.

Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que, conforme a una norma adoptada por la Junta de Educación conforme a la Ley de Educación de Nueva York §2035, cualquier referendo o propuesta para cambiar el número de miembros de la Junta de Educación, o una emisión de bonos para mejoras de capital, o cualquier otra petición que la ley requiera que conste en el Aviso de Reunión Anual y Elección debe presentarse ante el Secretario del Distrito en 5 Jardine Place, North Babylon, NY 11703, no más tarde de las 17:00 horas, hora vigente, el 19 de marzo de 2026. Cualquier otra petición, excepto aquellas que la ley exige que consten en el Aviso de Reunión

Anual y Elección, debe presentarse ante el Secretario del Distrito en 5 Jardine Place, North

Babylon, NY 117013, a más tardar a las 17:00 horas, hora vigente del 20 de abril de 2026. Todas estas peticiones deben estar mecanografiadas o impresas en inglés; debe dirigirse al Secretario del Distrito Escolar; deben estar firmados por al menos cuarenta y cinco (45) votantes cualificados del Distrito (que representan la mayor parte del 25 o el 5% del número de votantes que votaron en la elección anual anterior); y debe indicar legiblemente el nombre de cada firmante. Sin embargo, la Junta de Educación no admitirá ninguna petición para presentar ante los votantes ninguna propuesta cuyo propósito no esté dentro de las competencias de los votantes, ni ninguna propuesta o enmienda que sea contraria a la ley.

Y SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que aquellos votantes que busquen información sobre esta votación presupuestaria y elección en español deben contactar con la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito en el 631620-7011.

Erin Aristy Secretario del Distrito de la Junta de Educación

Distrito Escolar Libre de la Unión de North Babylon 5 Jardine Place, North Babylon, NY 11703

Aprobado: 19 de marzo de 2026 26-202 4/9,16,23, 5/7

Read the Legals to Stay

Callie Debuts at a School as a Calm, Therapy Dog

Pro -

Why did the zebra and camel at her petting zoo job harass her?

Did Callie train herself? Border Collies are considered highly intelligent, yet a self-taught dog is a stretch. This red Border Collie became a certified therapy dog on Long Island without the required classes. She skipped right to the test and aced it.

Pets, Pets, Pets...

Callie came to Last Hope Animal Rescue on a Georgia rescue transport in July 2024. She was an owner surrender on her way to a crowded local shelter. She had worked at a petting zoo with exotic animals, but, supposedly, the zebra and the camel started kicking her. An Australian Shepherd was aggressive toward her. (Note: Callie is the mildest Border Collie ever. Her background story and actual petting zoo job are sketchy.) She never made it to the Georgia shelter because a transport driver picked Callie up at the wildlife park and drove her to Last Hope in Wantagh along with Georgia shelter dogs. Upon arrival, it became clear that Callie, about six years old, was terribly neglected. She went home as a foster dog with volunteers -Kathy and Andy -who had owned Jake, a typically active Border Collie for 17 years. Callie never came back to Last Hope.

Callie was covered with ticks and tested positive for two tick-borne diseaseserlichia and anaplasmosis. Both are treated with doxycycline. Her mouth was a black/green, painful mess. Her teeth were worn down as if she had been eating rocks. The vet extracted five teeth that basically fell out of her mouth during her dental.

up for the test with a certified evaluator. The therapy dog test is a combination of an AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test of ten commands plus extra tasks such as not being afraid of a wheelchair. She passed the test with flying colors and now wears an official red vest when working as a Bright & Beautiful Therapy Dog.

PASSING THE TORCH:

For over ten years, Team Timmy, consisting of Timmy, a three-legged Lhasa, certified therapy dog and his sisters, Pammy Sue, a puppy mill breeder Shih tzu who needed complex orthopedic surgery to repair the leg she broke in the Kentucky puppy mill cage, and Beverly, a tiny Poodle rescued off Lost Angeles streets where she suffered from severe tremors, probably the result of surviving distemper, were Last Hope ambassadogs during adoption center tours and off-site visits. Sue, adopter of all three, and I are retired teachers. Our talks had two themes: shelter rescue and overcoming physical disabilities.

Timmy and Beverly passed two years ago. Pammy Sue earned her retirement. We miss them terribly. They were the canine “Tony Orlando and Dawn”. Timmy was the animated leader who showed off how fast he could run on three legs, while his sisters were adorable but low key.

CALLIE’S DEBUT THERAPY DOG VISIT:

Kathy and Andy quickly realized Callie was a treasure. She was attentive, looking at her owners for permission before she completed a task. She got along with everyone from kids to the neighborhood dogs. She soon acquired a fan club on long walks around the neighborhood. Her paparazzi took turns giving her pets and belly rubs. The children across the street brought out books and read to Callie.

She does step in front of whoever is leash walking her as if she were herding sheep. However, unlike Jake and most Border Collies, she is calm, not always on the go, and doesn’t need to be entertained. She has never barked in two years, only during bad dreams. She cowers when someone gets up quickly, suggesting someone (other than the zebra and camel) hit her.

Kathy took Callie to Bright & Beautiful Therapy Dogs in East Rockaway to be evaluated as a therapy dog candidate. She already did the tasks and commands needed, without taking any lessons. Callie was signed

On April 15th, she made her first visit to James L. Vernon School in Oyster Bay- East Norwich district- a 3rd through 6th grade school. Callie, Kathy and I met with their Ambassador Club during an after-school meeting. The student ambassadors from each class host a community service fundraiser each year.

In December, club members sold squishy Mochis for $1 a piece during recess. Under the guidance of Ashley Weiman, school social worker, the club raised $350 for Last Hope. Callie was there to accept the generous check and to represent both rescue and therapy dogs.

Kathy has seen Callie with neighborhood children who read to her outdoors, but this was Callie’s first large group, inside event. Callie was a calm pro- quiet during discussion, appreciative to receive petting and belly rubs from simultaneous hands. The club members, faculty, and security guard joined the Callie fan club too.

Callie has two more school visits penciled on her dance card, And the best news- James L. Vernon School did not have a camel, zebra, or Australian Shepherd, lurking on school grounds.

JOANNE ANDERSON

Callie’s fans at school, petting simultaneously.

Callie, Border Collie, certified therapy dog.

April 23, 2026

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING, BUDGET VOTE AND ELECTION OF THE WEST ISLIP UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICTSUFFOLK COUNTY, NEW YORK

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN, that a Public Hearing of the qualified voters of the West Islip Union Free School District, Town of Islip, Suffolk County New York, will be held in the Beach Street Middle School Auditorium, in said district on May 5, 2026, at 6:30 p.m., prevailing time, for the transaction of business as authorized by the Education Law, including the following items:

1. To present to the voters a detailed statement of the amount of money which will be required for the 20262027 fiscal year.

2. To discuss all the items hereinafter set forth to be voted upon by voting machines at the Budget Vote and Election to be held on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. 3. To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting pursuant to Education Law of the State of New York and acts amendatory thereto.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a copy of the statement of the amount of money which will be required to fund the School District’s budget for 2026-2027, exclusive of public moneys, may be obtained by any resident of the District beginning April 28, 2026, between the hours of 7:00 a.m.3:00 p.m. prevailing time, except Saturday, Sunday or holidays at the Office of the District Clerk, 100 Sherman Avenue, West Islip, NY 11795, at the West Islip Public Library and on the District’s internet website.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that said Budget Vote and Election will be held on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, in the West Islip High School, between the hours of 7:00 a.m.9:00 p.m., prevailing time, at which time the polls will be opened to vote by voting machines upon the following items:

1. To adopt the annual budget of the School District for the fiscal year 2026-2027 and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the District.

2. To elect (2) members of the Board of Education for a threeyear term commencing July 1, 2026, and expiring on June 30, 2029, to fill the positions held by Quinn Bedell and Anthony Tussie, whose terms expire on June 30, 2026.

3. To authorize the West Islip Union Free School District to undertake certain capital improvements consisting of (i) installing magnetic door holders for all classroom doors at West Islip High School (ii) installing electronic locks and card access readers for all classrooms and bathrooms at Beach Street Middle School and Udall Road Middle School, and (iii) completing the replacement of building fire alarms at the elementary schools, including all related construction, equipment, and incidental costs, and including additional work required due to higherthan-anticipated escalation in construction costs, material tariffs, rising labor costs, and updated fire and safety code requirements, at an estimated cost not to exceed $1,880,000 and to appropriate and expend up to $400,000

from the General Capital Reserve Fund and $1,480,000 from the General Capital Reserve Fund II for this purpose.

AND FURTHER

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN, that pursuant to Section 495 of the Real Property Tax Law, the School District is required to attach to its proposed budget an exemption report. Said exemption report, which will also become part of the final budget, will show how the total assessed value of the final assessment roll used in the budgetary process is exempt from taxation, list every type of exemption granted by the statutory authority, and show the cumulative impact of each type of exemption, the cumulative amount expected to be received as payments in lieu of taxes (PILOT) and the cumulative impact of all exemptions granted. In addition, said exemption report shall be posted on any bulletin board maintained by the District for public notices and on any website maintained by the District.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that petitions nominating candidates for the office of member of the Board of Education shall be filed with the Clerk of said School District at her office in 100 Sherman Avenue, West Islip, NY 11795 not later than April 20, 2026, between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., prevailing time. Each petition shall be directed to the Clerk of the District; must be signed by at least forty (40) qualified voters of the District (representing 2% of the number of voters who voted in the 2025 annual election). Vacancies on the Board of Education are not

Public Notices

considered separate, specific offices; candidates run at large. Nominating petitions shall not describe any specific vacancy upon the Board for which the candidate is nominated.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that personal registration of voters is required either pursuant to Section 2014 of the Education Law, or pursuant to Article 5 of the Election Law. If a voter has heretofore registered pursuant to Section 2014 of the Education Law and has voted at an annual or special district meeting within the last four (4) calendar years, he or she is eligible to vote at this election. If a voter is registered and eligible to vote under Article 5 of the Election Law, he or she is also eligible to vote at this election. All other persons who wish to vote must register. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, the voters may register with the Clerk of said School District at her office in the District Administration Office, 100 Sherman Avenue, West Islip, NY 11795, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. when school is in session at any day on or before May 14, 2026 to add any additional names to the Register to be used at the aforesaid election, at which time any person will be entitled to have his or her name placed on such Register provided that at such meeting with the Clerk of said School District he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of the Clerk of said School District to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at such election for which the Register is prepared. The Register so prepared pursuant to Section 2014 of

the Education Law will be filed in the Office of the District Clerk, at her office in the District Administration Office, 100 Sherman Avenue, West Islip, NY 11795 and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District beginning on and after Thursday, May 14, 2026, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. prevailing time, on each day prior to the day set for the election, except Sunday, and at the polling place(s) on the day of the vote.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN, that pursuant to Section 2014 of the Education Law of the State of New York, the Board of Registration will meet on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m., prevailing time, at the West Islip High School, to prepare the Register of the School District to be used at the Budget Vote and Election to be held in 2026, and any special district meeting that may be held after the preparation of said Register, at which time any person will be entitled to have his or her name placed on such Register provided that at such meeting of said Board of Registration he or she is known or proven to the satisfaction of such Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote at the school election for which said Register is prepared, or any special district meeting held after May 19, 2026.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the school district. An application for registration as a military voter can be requested from Elizabeth Davis,

District Clerk, West Islip UFSD, 100 Sherman Avenue, West Islip, NY 11795 by mail or email e.davis@ wi.k12.ny.us Monday through Friday when school is in session from 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. The application for registration must be received in the office of the clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 23, 2026, which is the day preceding the last day for transmission of military ballots. In the request for an application for registration, the military voter is permitted to designate his/her preference for receiving the application for registration by mail, facsimile transmission or electronic mail.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military voters who are qualified voters of the district may submit an application for a military ballot or before April 23, 2026 to Elizabeth Davis, District Clerk, West Islip UFSD, 100 Sherman Avenue, West Islip, NY 11795 by mail or email e.davis@wi.k12. ny.us Monday – Friday when school is in session from 7:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.. In the request for an application for a military ballot, the military voter is permitted to designate his/her preference for receiving the application for a military ballot, and the military ballot, by mail, facsimile transmission or electronic mail. All qualified military voters’ ballot application and military ballot must be returned by mail or in person. Ballots for military voters shall be distributed to qualified military voters no later than, April 24, 2026. Military ballots must be received by the District Clerk (1) before the close of the polls,

on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, and must show a cancellation mark of the United States postal service or a foreign country’s postal service, or must show a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States Government; or (2) not later than 5:00 pm on the day of the election and be signed and dated by the military voter and one witness, with a date ascertained to be not later than the day before the election. A list of persons to whom military ballots are issued will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the Office of the District Clerk on and after Thursday, May 14, 2026, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., prevailing time, on each day prior to the day set for the annual election, except Sunday, and on May 19, 2026, the day set for the election. Any qualified voter then present in the polling place may object to the voting of the ballot upon appropriate grounds by making his or her challenge and the reasons therefore known to the Inspector of Election before the close of the polls AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that applications for early mail ballots and absentee ballots will be obtainable during school business hours from the District Clerk beginning April 20, 2026 completed applications must be received by the District Clerk no earlier than April 20, 2026 and at least seven (7) days before the election, May 12, 2026, if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election, May 18, 2026, if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter. Early mail ballots and ab-

sentee ballots must be received by the District Clerk not later than 5:00 p.m., prevailing time, on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.

A list of persons to whom early mail ballots and absentee ballots are issued will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the Office of the District Clerk on and after Thursday, May 14, 2026, between the hours of 7:00 a.m.3:00 p.m., prevailing time, on each day prior to the day set for the annual election, except Sunday, and on May 19, 2026, the day set for the election. Any qualified voter then present in the polling place may object to the voting of the ballot upon appropriate grounds by making his or her challenge and the reasons therefore known to the Inspector of Election before the close of the polls. A challenge to an absentee ballot may not be made on the basis that the voter should have applied for an early mail ballot. AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that pursuant to a rule adopted by the Board of Education in accordance with Section 2035 of the Education Law, any referenda or propositions to amend the budget, or otherwise to be submitted for voting at said election, must be filed with the Clerk of the Board of Education at the District Office, 100 Sherman Avenue, West Islip, NY 11795, in sufficient time to permit notice of the proposition to be included with the Notice of the Public Hearing, Budget Vote and Election required by Section 2004 of the Education Law or on or before Fri-

Continued on next page

Continued from previous page

Dated: West Islip, New York March 6, 2026 By Order of the BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE WEST ISLIP UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT West Islip, New York Elizabeth Davis, District Clerk 26-191. 4/2, 16, 23, 5/7

AVISO DE AUDIENCIA PÚBLICA, VOTO DEL PRESUPUESTO Y ELECCIÓN DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR LIBRE DE UNION DE WEST ISLIP CONDADO DE SUFFOLK, NEW YORK

POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que se llevará a cabo una Audiencia Pública de los votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de Union West Islip, Ciudad de Islip, Condado de Suffolk, Nueva York, en la Escuela Intermedia Beach Street,

en dicho distrito el 5 de Mayo de 2026 a las 6:30 p.m., hora vigente, para la transacción de negocios según lo autorizado por la Ley de Educación, incluyendo los siguientes artículos:

1. Presentar a los votantes una declaración detallada (propuesta de presupuesto) de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para el año fiscal 2026-2027.

2. Discutir todos los puntos que a continuación se establecen para ser votados por las máquinas de voto en la Voto y Elección de Presupuesto que se llevará a cabo el Martes 19 de Mayo de 2026.

3. Tramitar otros asuntos que puedan presentarse adecuadamente ante la reunión de conformidad con la Ley de Educación del Estado de Nueva York y las leyes que la modifican.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL de que cualquier residente del Distrito puede obtener una copia de la declaración de la cantidad de dinero que se requerirá para financiar el presupuesto del Distrito Escolar para 2026-2027, excluyendo los fondos públicos, a partir del 28 de Abril de 2026, entre las horas de 7:00 a.m. a 3:00 p.m., hora vigente, excepto Sábados, Domingos o días festivos en la Oficina la Secretaria del Distrito, 100 Sherman Avenue, West Islip, NY 11795, en la Biblioteca Pública de West Islip y en el pagina web de Internet del Distrito.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO

Public Notices

p.m., hora vigente, momento en el cual las urnas se abrirán para votar por máquinas de voto sobre los siguientes elementos:

1. Adoptar el presupuesto anual del Distrito Escolar para el año fiscal 2026-2027 y autorizar que la porción requerida del mismo se aumente mediante impuestos sobre la propiedad imponible del Distrito.

2. Elegir (2) miembros de la Junta de Directiva por un período de tres años que comienza el 1 de Julio de 2026 y caduca el 30 de Junio de 2029 para ocupar los puestos ocupados por Quinn Bedell y Anthony Tussie, cuyos mandatos caducan el 30 de Junio de 2026.

General de Capital y $1,480,000 del Fondo de Reserva General de Capital II para este propósito.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, que de conformidad con la Sección 495 de la Ley del Impuesto sobre la Propiedad Inmobiliaria, se requiere que el Distrito Escolar adjunte a su presupuesto propuesto un informe de exención. Dicho informe de exención, que también pasará a formar parte del presupuesto final, mostrará cómo el valor total de la tasación final utilizada en el proceso presupuestario está exento de impuestos, enumerará cada tipo de exención otorgada por la autoridad estatutaria y mostrará el impacto acumulativo de cada tipo de exención, el monto acumulado que se espera recibir como pagos en lugar de impuestos (PILOT) y el impacto acumulativo de todas las exenciones otorgadas. Además, dicho informe de exención se publicará en cualquier tablón de anuncios mantenido por el Distrito para avisos públicos y en cualquier pagina web mantenido por el Distrito.

tan el 2% del número de votantes que votaron en las elecciones anuales de 2025), Las vacantes en la Junta de Educación no se consideran cargos separados y específicos; Los candidatos se postulan en general. Las peticiones de nominación no describirán ninguna vacante específica en la Junta para la cual el candidato está nominado.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, que se requiere el registro personal de los votantes ya sea de conformidad con la Sección 2014 de la Ley de Educación o de conformidad con el Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral. Si un votante se ha registrado hasta ahora de conformidad con la Sección 2014 de la Ley de Educación y ha votado en una reunión anual o especial del distrito dentro de los últimos cuatro (4) años calendario, él o ella es elegible para votar en esta elección. Si un votante está registrado y es elegible para votar bajo el Artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral, él o ella también es elegible para votar en esta elección. Todas las demás personas que deseen votar deben registrarse.

que su nombre se coloque en dicho Registro, siempre que en dicha reunión con la Secretaria de dicho Distrito Escolar se sepa o se demuestre, a satisfacción la Secretaria de dicho Distrito Escolar, que tiene derecho a votar en dicha elección para la cual se prepara el Registro. El Registro así preparado de conformidad con la Sección 2014 de la Ley de Educación se archivará en la Oficina de la Secretaria del Distrito, en su oficina en la Oficina de Administración del Distrito, 100 Sherman Avenue, West Islip, NY 11795, y estará abierto para la inspección de cualquier votante calificado del Distrito a partir del Jueves 14 de Mayo. 2026, entre las 7:00 a.m. y las 3:00 p.m., hora vigente, en cada día anterior al día establecido para la elección, excepto el Domingo, y en el (los) lugar (s) de voto el día del voto.

tiene derecho a votar en ese momento o en lo sucesivo en la elección escolar para la cual se establece dicho Registro. o cualquier reunión especial de distrito que se celebre después del 19 de Mayo de 2026.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO

Continued on next page day, March 20, 2026, at 3:00 pm. prevailing time; must be typed or printed in the English language; must be directed to the Clerk of the School District; must be signed by at least 203 qualified voters of the District (representing 10% of the number of voters who voted in the previous annual election); and must legibly state the name of each signer. However, the School Board will not entertain any petition to place before the voters any proposition the purpose of which is not within the powers of the voters to determine, which is unlawful, or any proposition which fails to include a specific appropriation where the expenditure of monies is required by the proposition, or where other valid reason exists for excluding the proposition from the ballot.

ADICIONAL, de que dicho Voto y Elección del Presupuesto se llevará a cabo el Martes 19 de Mayo de 2026, en la Escuela Intermedia West Islip, entre las 7:00 a.m. y las 9:00

3. Autorizar al Distrito Escolar Libre de la Unión de West Islip a llevar a cabo ciertas mejoras de capital que consisten en: (i) instalar retenedores magnéticos para puertas en todas las puertas de las aulas en la Escuela Secundaria de West Islip; (ii) instalar cerraduras electrónicas y lectores de acceso con tarjeta en todas las aulas y baños de la Escuela Intermedia Beach Street y la Escuela Intermedia Udall Road; y (iii) completar el reemplazo de las alarmas contra incendios del edificio en las escuelas primarias, incluyendo toda la construcción relacionada, el equipo y los costos incidentales, así como el trabajo adicional requerido debido a un aumento mayor de lo previsto en los costos de construcción, aranceles sobre materiales, aumento de los costos laborales y requisitos actualizados de los códigos de incendios y seguridad, con un costo estimado que no exceda de $1,880,000, y autorizar la asignación y el gasto de hasta $400,000 del Fondo de Reserva

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, que las peticiones de nominación de candidatos para el cargo de miembro de la Junta de Educación se presentarán ante la Secretaria de dicho Distrito Escolar en su oficina en 100 Sherman Avenue, West Islip, NY 11795, a más tardar el 20 de Abril de 2026, entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 5:00 p.m., hora vigente. Cada petición se dirigirá a la Secretaria del Distrito; debe estar firmada por al menos cuarenta y un (40) votantes calificados del Distrito (que represen-

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, los votantes pueden registrarse con la Secretaria de dicho Distrito Escolar en su oficina en la Oficina de Administración del Distrito, 100 Sherman Avenue, West Islip, NY 11795, entre las 7:00 a.m.3:00 p.m. cuando la escuela está en sesión en cualquier día en o antes del 14 de Mayo de 2026 para agregar cualquier nombre adicional al Registro que se utilizará en la elección antes mencionada, en cuyo momento, cualquier persona tendrá derecho a

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, que de conformidad con la Sección 2014 de la Ley de Educación del Estado de Nueva York, la Junta de Registro se reunirá el Martes 19 de Mayo de 2026, entre las 7:00 a.m. y las 9:00 p.m., hora vigente, en la Escuela Intermedia West Islip, para preparar el Registro del Distrito Escolar que se utilizará en la y Elección del Presupuesto que se llevará a cabo en 2026, y cualquier reunión especial de distrito que pueda celebrarse después de la preparación de dicho Registro, en la cual cualquier persona tendrá derecho a que su nombre se coloque en dicho Registro, siempre que en dicha reunión de dicha Junta de Registro se sepa o se demuestre a satisfacción de dicha Junta de Registro que

ADICIONAL, de que los votantes militares que no están registrados actualmente pueden solicitar registrarse como votantes calificados del distrito escolar. Una solicitud para registrarse como votante militar se puede solicitar a Elizabeth Davis, Secretaria del Distrito, West Islip UFSD, 100 Sherman Avenue, West Islip, NY 11795 por correo postal o correo electrónico e.davis@wi.k12.ny.us

Lunes a Viernes cuando la escuela está en sesión de 7:00 a.m. a 3:00 p.m. La solicitud de registro debe recibirse en la oficina la Secretaria a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. del 23 de Abril de 2026, que es el día antes del último día para la transmisión de boletas militares. En la solicitud de registro, el votante militar puede designar su preferencia para recibir la solicitud de registro por correo, fax o correo electrónico.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, que los votantes militares que son votantes calificados del distrito pueden presentar una solicitud para una boleta militar a Elizabeth Davis, Secretaria del Distrito, West Islip UFSD, 100 Sherman Avenue, West Islip, NY 11795 por correo o correo electrónico e.davis@ wi.k12.ny.us Lunes a Viernes cuando la escuela está en sesión de 7:00 a.m. a 3:00 p.m.; para recibir una boleta militar, la solicitud de boleta militar debe recibirse a más tardar a

las 5:00 p.m. del 23 de Abril de 2026, que es el día anterior al último día para la transmisión de boletas militares. En la solicitud para una boleta militar, se permite que el votante militar designe su preferencia para recibir la solicitud de una boleta militar, y la boleta militar, por correo, transmisión de fax o correo electrónico. Todas las solicitudes de boleta de votantes militares calificados y las boletas militares deben devolverse por correo o en persona. Las boletas para votantes militares se distribuirán a los votantes militares calificados a más tardar el 24 de Abril de 2026. Las boletas militares deben ser recibidas por la Secretaria del Distrito (1) antes del cierre de las urnas, el Martes 19 de Mayo de 2026, y deben mostrar una marca de cancelación del servicio postal de los Estados Unidos o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o deben mostrar un endoso fechado de recepción por otra agencia del Gobierno de los Estados Unidos; o (2) a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. del día de la elección y estar firmada y fechada por el votante militar y un testigo, con una fecha determinada que no será posterior al día anterior a la elección. Una lista de las personas a las que se emiten boletas militares estará disponible para inspección para los votantes calificados del Distrito en la Oficina la Secretaria del Distrito a partir del Jueves 14 de Mayo de 2026, entre las horas de 7:00 a.m. a 3:00 p.m., hora vigente, cada día antes del día establecido para la elección anual, excepto el Domingo, y el 19 de Mayo de 2026,

April 23, 2026

Public Notices

Continued from previous page día fijado para las elecciones. Cualquier votante calificado que esté presente en el lugar de voto puede objetar el voto de la boleta por motivos apropiados haciendo saber su impugnación y las razones correspondientes al Inspector de Elecciones antes del cierre de las urnas.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO

ADICIONAL, que las solicitudes de boletas anticipadas por correo y boletas de voto en ausencia se podrán obtener durante el horario escolar la Secretaria del Distrito a partir del 20 de Abril de 2026 las solicitudes completadas deben ser recibidas por la Secretaria del Distrito no antes del 20 de Abril de 2026 y al menos siete (7) días antes de la elección, el 12 de Mayo, 2026, si la boleta se va a enviar por correo al votante, o el día antes de la elección, el 18 de Mayo de 2026, si la boleta se va a entregar personalmente al votante. Las boletas anticipadas por correo y las boletas de voto en ausencia deben ser recibidas por la Secretaria del Distrito a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m., hora vigente, el Martes 19 de Mayo de 2026. Una lista de personas a quienes se emiten boletas anticipadas por correo y boletas de voto en ausencia estará disponible para inspección para los votantes calificados del Distrito en la Oficina la Secretaria del Distrito a partir del Jueves 14 de Mayo de 2026, entre las 7:00 a.m. y las 3:00 p.m., hora vigente, cada día anterior al día establecido para la elección anual. excepto el Domingo, y el 19 de Mayo de 2026, día fijado para las elecciones. Cualquier votante calificado que esté presente en el

lugar de voto puede objetar la voto de la boleta por motivos apropiados haciendo saber su impugnación y las razones correspondientes al Inspector de Elecciones antes del cierre de las urnas. No se puede hacer una impugnación a una boleta de voto en ausencia sobre la base de que el votante debería haber solicitado una boleta anticipada por correo.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL, que de conformidad con una regla adoptada por la Junta de Educación de acuerdo con la Sección 2035 de la Ley de Educación, cualquier referéndum o proposición para enmendar el presupuesto, o de otra manera para ser presentada para voto en dicha elección, debe presentarse ante la Secretaria de la Junta de Educación en la Oficina del Distrito, 100 Sherman Avenue, West Islip, NY 11795, con tiempo suficiente para permitir que la notificación de la proposición se incluya con la Notificación de la Audiencia Pública, la Voto del Presupuesto y la Elección requerida por la Sección 2004 de la Ley de Educación o en o antes del Viernes 20 de Marzo de 2026, a las 3:00 p.m., hora vigente; debe estar mecanografiado o impreso en el idioma inglés; debe dirigirse a la Secretaria del Distrito Escolar; debe estar firmada por al menos 203 votantes calificados del Distrito (que representan el 10% del número de votantes que votaron en la elección anual anterior); y debe indicar de manera legible el nombre de cada firmante. Sin embargo, la Junta Escolar no considerará ninguna petición para presentar a los votantes cu-

alquier proposición cuyo propósito no esté dentro de los poderes de los votantes para determinar, lo cual es ilegal, o cualquier proposición que no incluya una asignación específica donde el gasto de dinero sea requerido por la proposición, o donde exista otra razón válida para excluir la proposición de la boleta electoral.

Fecha: 6 de Marzo de 2026

Por orden de La Junta De Educación de Distrito Escolar de West Islip Union Free School District West Islip, NY 11795

Elizabeth Davis, Secretaria de Distrito 26-192. 4/2, 16, 23, 5/7

PUBLIC NOTICE

VILLAGE OF BABYLON 153 W. MAIN STREET, BABYLON, NY 11702

MUNICIPAL BUILDING

PLANNING

BOARD MEETING

AGENDA

April 30, 2026

NEW BUSINESS: Rogers

43-45 James St Subdivision Gia Land Associates Locust Avenue Site Plan Review Weber 40 Trask Lane Driveway Bloom@Argyle 185 W. Main St Site Plan Review 26-242. 4/23

West Islip High School American Sign Language Level 5

26 to lead an engaging and interactive ASL lesson for second grade students.

Elementary students discover the power of language through ASL

For the third consecutive year, Jennifer Suriano led her West Islip High School American Sign Language Level 5 seniors on a visit to Oquenock Elementary School on March 26, where they delivered an engaging and interactive ASL lesson for second grade students.

This year’s visit blossomed with a festive spring theme, creating a joyful and meaningful learning experience. Oquenock’s second graders rotated through a variety of hands-on stations, each designed to introduce new vocabulary and concepts in ASL.

Activities included singing and signing a cheerful spring song, creating crafts, playing interactive games, and an “egg-cellent” station where students selected words hidden inside colorful plastic eggs and learned how to sign them. The visit was made even more special thanks to an invitation from Principal Amanda Harvey, who warmly welcomed the program back for another year of collaboration, connection and springtime fun.

Throughout the morning, the West Islip seniors stepped into the role of teachers, guiding their younger peers with patience, enthusiasm and care. They modeled effective communication through sign language while building connections that were as bright as a spring day. Many of these dedicated seniors are candidates for the World Language Honor Society, are earning Adelphi University college credit, and are working toward the Seal of Biliteracy. They served as outstanding role models, demonstrating pride, kindness, and thoughtful care in every interaction.

This experience planted the seeds for meaningful collaboration between the seniors and younger students while nurturing the ASL seniors’ leadership skills, said school. officials.

The visit concluded with all students coming together to perform the song they learned in ASL — an uplifting moment that showcased their love for learning and celebrated their shared success.

Courtesy West Islip school district

seniors visited Oquenock Elementary School on March

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

BRANDS CYCLE

(WILL TRAIN)

*MECHANICS

*FITNESS EQUIPMENT TECHNICIAN 1966 Wantagh Ave, Wantagh 516-781-6100 info@brandscycle.com

Building Maintenance

Assistant and Porter needed for Management Co. in Long Beach Experience Preferred Email: humanresoures5771 @gmail.com or Call: (212) 873-7575

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE Full Time/Part Time Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc. STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multi-task, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines. Salary Range is $17 per hour to $20 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: circulationassociate@liherald.com

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. 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

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome! $22 - $27/ Hour Bell Auto School 516-365-5778 Email: info@bellautoschool.com

EDITOR/REPORTER

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

MULTI MEDIA

ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT

Inside Sales

Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $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

HomesHERALD

Rare Beachfront Gem

I don’t have a permit yet, but I do have an impatient contractor

Q. I have been through a year of permits. My architect warned me it could take this long, but I didn’t believe them. My neighbor did the same addition and told me it would only take a few weeks for a permit, but then I learned they didn’t even get permits, and I’m really wondering if I should have done the same thing. I follow your column and can now attest to what you’ve been saying. We had to get a zoning variance, and it took many, many months certainly not a few weeks. Now we’re right at the end, and I’ve been assured by the building department that we’re “almost there.” Funny thing is, I still don’t have a permit, and my contractor is ready to move on to another project if we don’t start now. Should I just get started, to keep my contractor, knowing I’ll have the permit soon, or will there be problems if I do?

A. Getting started ahead of having a permit in hand is problematic. A licensed professional should never advise someone to deviate from an ordinance, law or building code. This issue ties directly into my last two columns about the New York state campaign to “Let Them Build.” Delays are costly. Between fuel increases and tariffs, every day makes a difference when it comes to the cost of construction.

Building authorities won’t directly tell you that you could start without your permit, even if the permit is almost there. They do, however, have a method referred to as a “maintain” permit, where they recognize work that was already done and review it with an increased fee, in most cases. By doing so, they’re accommodating people to start construction without permits, even if they wouldn’t say so. It’s understandable that you feel you’re doing everything right, and shouldn’t be penalized for having done so, and therefore want to just start, already.

When you look over at your neighbor’s home, you may be compelled to follow their example, but remember, they, or some owner of that property in the future, will still have to file with building plans, even after the fact. When that happens, the building codes may have changed, or things that they did may not be compliant and will need reconstructing. This isn’t always the case, but when a professional is called to figure out what someone constructed and then to draw plans, after the fact, they find things that don’t always work out smoothly. It isn’t uncommon, when plans haven’t been reviewed and permitted, to find structure undersized, room sizes and ceiling heights smaller than allowed, not enough windows or the wrong-sized windows to meet light, ventilation and fire escape requirements, and more.

You’re doing this project the right way, and even though nobody will tell you that you can just start, there seem to be ways to condone your doing so.

Good luck!

AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET. If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-833-323-0160

SAVE ON YOUR TRAVEL PLANS!

Up to 75% More than 500 AIRLINES and 300,000 HOTELS across the world. Let us do the research for you for FREE! Call: 877 988 7277

We Buy Antiques, Fine Art, Coins & Jewelry Same Day Service, Free In-Home Evaluations, 45 Year Family Business. Licensed and Bonded, Immediate Cash Paid. SYL-LEE ANTIQUES www.syl-leeantiques.com 516-671-6464

Wanted To Buy

Costume Jewelry Wanted Necklaces, Earrings, Bracelets & Rings. Also Buying Gold & Silver.

$$ CASH PAID $$ 631-500-0792

Long Island / Will Travel

BABY'S CHANGE TABLE. Gently used, white, 3 drawers. $15. Lido Beach. (516)705-9398

THE BEATLES ANTHOLOGY: 5 DVD's, new, boxed and wrapped, 11 hours of footage, $25, 516-884-9994.

YANKEES SIGNED BASEBALL on stand with authenticity papers, Shane Spencer, $25, 516-884-9994

SERVICES

Cable/TV/Wiring

Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 OnDemand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-782-4069

Cleaning Services

WENDY'S CLEANING SERVICES INC. Commercial/Residential. We Specialize In Houses, Apartments, Offices, Airbnb & More. Good References. Free Estimates. Call/Text Wendy 516-406-5375 Or Email wencruzpa@gmail.com

Electricians

E-Z ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC.

Home Improvement

All Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas. Services/Repairs. Violations Removed. Free Estimates Low Rates. 516-785-0646 Lic/Ins.

Handyman

PAINTING

& HANDYMAN SERVICE

Tired of calling a contractor & they don't call back? I will call you back the same day! 917-822-0225 Ricky Specializing in carpentry, bathrooms, kitchens, sheetrock, flooring, electric, plumbing. Over 25 yrs exp.Lic/Ins H3805150000

Home Improvement

HErald Crossword Puzzle Stuff HERALD

BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-833-807-0159

DO YOU KNOW what's in your water?

Leaf Home Water Solutions offers FREE water testing and whole home water treatment systems that can be installed in as little one day. 15% off your entire purchase. Plus 10% senior & military discounts. Restrictions apply. Schedule your FREE test today. Call 1-866-247-5728

PREPARE FOR POWER outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-877-516-1160 today to schedule a free quote. It's not just a generator. It's a power move.

PREPARE FOR POWER outages with Briggs & Stratton® PowerProtect(TM) standby generators - the most powerful home standby generators available. Industry-leading comprehensive warranty - 7 years ($849 value.) Proudly made in the U.S.A. Call Briggs & Stratton 1-888-605-1496

SAFE STEP. NORTH America's #1 WalkIn Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-855-916-5473

Miscellaneous

GET BOOST INFINITE! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 844-329-9391

Power Washing

POWERWASHING ALL SURFACES: Houses, Fences, Concrete/ Brick, Decks/Sealing. ANTHONY & J HOME IMPROVEMENT, INC. 516-678-6641

Services

AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER?

STORM DAMAGE? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-833-880-7679

INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT? Don't Accept the insurance company's first offer. Many injured parties are entitled to major cash settlements. Get a free evaluation to see what your case is really worth. 100% Free Evaluation. Call Now: 1-833-323-0318. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest provider.

PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-833-549-0598 Have zip code of property ready when calling!

Sprinkler Syst./Irrig.Wells

LAWN SPRINKLERS

Installed & Serviced. Repairs, Installations, Upgrades. EARLY SPRING SPECIALS! 0% FREE FINANCING! FREE WIFI TIMER ($550 Value) w/Any New Sprinkler System Installation Completed by 4/30/26. Call for Details. Satisfying Customers For Over 44 Years. Licensed & Insured. COUNTY IRRIGATION 515-255-9595 www.countyirrigation.com

Telephone Services

CONSUMER CELLULAR - the same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-844-919-1682

Tree Services

T&M GREENCARE TREE SERVICE

*TREE REMOVAL *STUMP GRINDING

*PRUNING. FREE ESTIMATES. 516-223-4525, 631-586-3800 www.tmgreencare.com

Satellite/TV Equipment

DIRECTV- All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Directv and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Health & Fitness

ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-833-661-4172

ATTENTION: VIAGRA AND CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 1-833-641-6397

AUTOMOBILE & MARINE

Autos For Sale

HONDA ACCORD 2012: Black, 4 Door, 103,000 Miles, Safe, Dependable And Smooth Ride. Excellent On Gas, Very Clean And Well Maintained. $6,500 Negotiable. Call 516-225-7745

Autos Wanted

***AAA*** AUTO BUYERS

$Highest$ Ca$h Paid$. All Years/ Conditions! WE VISIT YOU! Or Donate, Tax Deduct + Ca$h. DMV ID#1303199. Call LUKE 516-VAN-CARS. 516-297-2277

DONATE YOUR CAR today, running or not. Support Patriotic Hearts for our Veterans and their Families! Free fast pickup. Max tax deduction. Se habla Español. Call now: 844-415-1229

GET A BREAK on your taxes! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, nocost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-855-484-3467 today! WE BUY 8,000 cars a week. Sell your old,

The tumor was malignant — but then it was gone

Three years ago this week, I had what I’ve called my “unexpected medical adventure.” As I described to readers then, it was a life-altering experience with a very good ending.

It all began innocuously enough, with a routine endoscopy for acid reflux in the summer of 2017 by my gastroenterologist, Dr. Michael Barth. As expected, the procedure turned up nothing, and Barth simply prescribed a medication, which I took regularly. Over the next few years, I had few symptoms, and put off my fiveyear follow-up endoscopy.

Finally, at Barth’s insistence, I scheduled another endoscopy in March 2023. I had no concern. Just closing the loop. Just another test guys my age go through. Imagine my surprise when I woke up from the procedure and Barth told me that he’d found a protrusion in my stomach wall. While he thought it was benign, he recommended that I see Dr. Arvino Trini-

dade, a specialist at Northwell, who scheduled a biopsy at Long Island Jewish hospital.

Melissa Zimmerman, a retired Nassau County Police Department detective who’d been on my security detail when I was in Congress, offered to drive me and Rosemary to the hospital. Before I was taken into the operating room, Trinidade told me he thought there was nothing there. But when I woke up, he told me there was a tumor, and it was probably malignant. Four days later, Barth and Trinidade called to confirm it. But they were confident of a good outcome, and told me the surgery would be done at LIJ by Dr. Matthew Weiss, a premier cancer surgeon.

iWABC-AM studios in Manhattan and attended a political dinner at King Umberto’s in Elmont. I told almost nobody about the upcoming surgery. With a day to go, I began a liquid diet, with Jell-O being the closest thing to solid food.

’ve become more aware of those who receive more severe diagnoses than mine.

That afternoon, Weiss called and told me I should be confident of complete success. He casually told me to “enjoy the weekend.” That evening, Rosemary and I had dinner at an Italian restaurant in Manhattan with Zimmerman and her husband, Lance.

The following week, I had appointments at Northwell, saw my cardiologist in Manhattan to get his sign-off on the operation, did several radio shows at the

Early Monday morning, Zimmerman again drove us to the hospital. By 6:30 I was ready for showtime. Lying on a gurney with an intravenous tube in my arm, I was wheeled into the operating room, a science fiction-style enclosure crowded with doctors, nurses, bright lights and a table filled with knives and scissors. An epidural was painlessly inserted in my spine, and an anesthesia mask placed over my face.

The next thing I knew, I was in the recovery room, and Rosemary was telling me that Weiss said that all had gone well. I had no significant pain — unless I moved or reached for something. Each day the pain receded, and I was able to walk a little more. When I was discharged the following Saturday, I walked from the hospital to the car.

At home I was able to eat regularly, felt nothing more than soreness at the

incision site and, after a week or so, was outside, walking a few more blocks each day. As the doctors had predicted, all follow-up tests showed complete success. I recounted much of this to readers at the time. Now, having had three years to reflect and put it all in perspective, I appreciate more than ever how fortunate I’ve been: Barth urging me to get the “routine” endoscopy; Trindade and Weiss being ultimate professionals; and having strong family support from Rosemary; my son, Sean; my daughter, Erin; and my sister, Barbara, who’s a nurse. There were also the friends who took the time to visit me in the hospital or call to wish me luck.

I’ve also become increasingly aware of the many people who receive much more severe diagnoses than I had, which do not end well. I was also fortunate to have access to outstanding medical care at a first-rate hospital. (To the naysayers and critics, I didn’t have any congressional or federal health insurance.) I’m also grateful that I broke loose from the traditional Irish suspicion and distrust of doctors and hospitals.

Yes, I’m a lucky guy!

Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.

Trying desperately to avoid the stress of TV news

These nearly two months of war in Iran have me, and countless others, more on edge than we have ever been. The idea that a conflict in the Middle East could become World War III is very unsettling. When a war is that far away and the parties themselves have a long history of bickering, our lives become unsettled, and we need diversions.

To blot out the talking heads on Fox, MS Now and CNN, I found myself looking for other distractions beyond my work as a government-affairs specialist. I watched some sports events, tuning to NCAA baskeball’s Final Four, hoping to relax. To my surprise, those games could ruin your sleep if you watched every upset. I was rooting for St. John’s, and when the junior point guard Dylan Darling sank a driving, buzzer-beating layup to beat Kansas and send the Red Storm to their first Sweet 16 in 27 years,

I almost fell off my chair.

A lot of the other games had surprise endings, and when the final ended with a Michigan victory, I realized that watching the tournament wasn’t the best way to avoid nail-biting. So I turned to other sports, and anything that would distract me from all the news about the Israelis killing Iranian leaders one by one. I got some initial relief watching a women’s pro hockey game between New York Sirens and the Seattle Torrent at Madison Square Garden. It was nice to watch a no-nonsense game that attracted a record crowd of 18,000 .

pages unnerved me, when he lavished praise on the recently ousted attorney general, Pam Bondi.

s t. John’s basketball. Women’s hockey. Testing Negative for Stupid — and more.

I also watched the women’s basketball national championship. There were quite a few nervous moments until the final game, when UCLA won its first national title.

Then I decided to do some casual reading, and started with Louisiana Sen. John Kennedy’s new book, titled “How to Test Negative for Stupid, And Why Washington Never Will.” Most of its 224 pages are a lot of fun, thanks to Kennedy’s folksy humor, but the last 30

Rather than move on to a new book, I turned my attention to my streaming television services, Netflix, Amazon and Hulu, in the hope of finding some feelgood movies. When I opened them up, they offered me such calming films as “Supernatural,” “Scream,” “Send Help,” “Sinners” and “The Substance.” I know there are other offerings, but most of the feel-good movies are old and I’ve already seen them. All my life, I’ve loved good comedy. I cherish the great old names like Jackie Mason, Henny Youngman, Buddy Hackett, Jerry Lewis, Jackie Gleason, George Carlin, Don Rickles and Lenny Bruce. Occasionally I stumble on one of these legends on Facebook, and try to share their comedy with people around me. Regrettably, there are no comedians these days that give me the same belly laughs that I got from those giants. My grandson in Los Angeles heads up a unit of Netflix that promotes a number of comedians, but I haven’t adapted to their new style.

So where do I go for some badly needed diversion? I’m a devout Knicks and Yankees fan, but there’s no way I can get a Knicks playoff ticket without paying big dollars. I love going to Yankees games, too, but their tickets are getting pricier, so I limit my purchases to no more than three games. I enjoy watching major golf tournaments, but sometimes you feel as if the announcers will put you to sleep with their commentary. I am looking forward to the U.S. Open in June, though.

Some of us are lucky to have hobbies that help us escape the pressures of today’s headlines. I love writing and making speeches, but neither lulls you into a peaceful state of mind. Short of moving to Antarctica, where I imagine you can avoid the daily news horrors, I’ll keep trying to find some other relaxing activity. I still watch TV for the weather reports, but goodbye to the other channels.

Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He currently chairs the Capitol Insight Group, a government relations firm. Comments? jkremer@liherald.com.

Playground safety for kids requires vigilance

as spring returns and families stream back to neighborhood parks, playgrounds quickly reclaim their place as a focus of community life. They are where children test their limits, build confidence and simply enjoy being kids.

But beneath that joy lies a sobering reality: More than 200,000 children, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, are injured on playgrounds each year in the United States — many in ways that are preventable.

That’s why National Playground Safety Week, April 20-24, should be treated as more than a symbolic observance. It is a necessary prompt for parents, caregivers, schools and local officials to refocus on safety as playground use surges.

Playgrounds were never meant to be spaces for careless behavior. In fact, they were created with safety and development in mind. In the 19th century, educators such as Friedrich Fröbel promoted the idea of structured play as essential to childhood growth, helping to instill cooperation, coordination and social skills.

As cities grew more crowded and streets more dangerous with the rise of motor vehicles, playgrounds became protected environments where children could play away from traffic and other hazards. Early efforts by civic groups and park advocates helped establish designated play areas as a public safety measure — a mission that still resonates today.

opinion Matters

The strength of our community comes from open dialogue.

The strength of our community comes from open dialogue.

We invite residents to submit letters to the editor on issues affecting our neighborhoods, schools, businesses and local government.

The strength of our community comes from open dialogue. We invite residents to submit letters to the editor on issues affecting our neighborhoods, schools, businesses and local government.

In the U.S., the Outdoor Recreation League funded the building of playgrounds on parkland after newspapers reported on the high number of children run down by cars in New York. One of the first recreational areas in America was built in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park in 1887.

Yet even within these safer spaces, risks remain — especially after months of winter wear and limited use. Equipment may have loosened, surfaces can degrade, and aging structures may no longer meet modern safety standards. The playgrounds’ young users, meanwhile, return with pent-up energy, eager to climb higher and move faster than conditions safely allow. Caregivers often distracted by cell phones only add to the challenge.

Preventing injuries doesn’t require diminishing the joy of play, but does require managing the environment around it. The National Program for Play Area Safety is a nonprofit organization that emphasizes practical, researchbased strategies that communities can adopt. Chief among them is active, attentive supervision. Its “ABC” model — Anticipating hazards, Behaving in ways that guide safe play and Considering the unique needs of each playground — makes clear that safety is not passive. It is intentional.

The program builds on a 30-year initiative started at the University of Northern Iowa to help communities and organizations ensure safe, high-quality

playgrounds. It promotes best practices grounded in research, guidelines and standards while collaborating with agencies at the local, state, national and international levels.

Equally important is age-appropriate design. When younger children use equipment meant for older users, the risk of falls and misuse increases. Clear guidance and thoughtful layout can help families make safer choices without limiting exploration.

Communities must also prioritize proper surfacing and regular inspections, particularly in early spring. What lies beneath a child’s feet can determine whether a fall results in a minor scrape or a serious injury.

Safety extends further still. Accessibility ensures that all children can benefit from outdoor play, while attention to thermal comfort — such as shaded areas and heat-safe materials — helps protect children from high temperatures.

National Playground Safety Week offers a timely reminder, but it should also serve as a starting point. The original purpose of playgrounds — to give children a safe place to grow, learn and play — demands ongoing attention.

A quick inspection, a watchful eye and a renewed awareness can go a long way. With thoughtful action at the start of the season, communities can ensure that playgrounds remain what they were always meant to be: spaces of safe discovery, not preventable harm.

We invite residents to submit letters to the editor on issues affecting our neighborhoods, schools, businesses and local government.

Letters must include your name and contact information for verification. Send lettters to execeditor@liherald.com

Letters must include your name and contact information for verification. Send lettters to execeditor@liherald.com

Be heard. Be part of the conversation.

Letters must include your name and contact information for verification. Send lettters to execeditor@liherald.com

Be heard. Be part of the conversation.

Be heard. Be part of the conversation.

Long Island’s ‘hidden workforce’ has visible needs

Long Island’s “hidden workforce” of family caregivers faces very visible challenges. The term is frequently used to describe family caregivers who, while not employed by our health care system, play a critical role in it. They don’t wear uniforms or ID badges, but this massive workforce of more than 329,000 Long Islanders provides over 307 million hours of unpaid care, valued at $5.7 billion, per year, according to AARP New York data released in February.

Nationally, nearly one in four American adults provided ongoing care to an adult or child with a complex medical condition or disability in the past year, a 2025 report, by AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving, found. Almost 25 percent of those people reported giving more than 40 hours of care per week, the equivalent of a full-time job, for free. Taking on the unpaid labor of love of caring for a family member can be both extremely rewarding and enormously straining. Emotionally, caregivers may struggle with stress, anxiety, guilt and social isolation. Physically, they may

increase their own health risks with the stress and exhaustion of helping loved ones with daily activities they can no longer manage alone.

Financially, that can cause hardships such as reduced work hours, loss of employment or new debt to cover care-related expenses, especially for middleaged people balancing their caregiving responsibilities with the demands of jobs and raising children.

Like all workers, family caregivers need breaks, but they frequently forgo their own needs to prioritize someone else’s. Repeatedly making this sacrifice, while well-intended, is ultimately detrimental for both them and their loved ones. Self-care is a necessity, not a luxury.

w

hen it comes to caregiving, Rosalynn Carter couldn’t have said it better.

The workload is even greater for the 60,000-plus Long Island families caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related illness. Roughly 80 percent of people living with dementia receive care at home, primarily from unpaid family members. Along with assisting with medication management, bathing, dressing, transportation, meal preparation and financial oversight, dementia family caregivers also face unique challenges caused by the disease’s impact on a person’s memory, behavior and independence. Sufferers may forget who their loved ones are, manifest personality changes like agitation, aggression and hallucinations, and wander from safety. Their caregivers face higher risks of anxiety, depression, burnout and declining quality of life.

Framework by Tim Baker

One of the most important things caregivers can do is take advantage of support resources. The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America offers free caregiver support groups at its AFA Barbara Rabinowitz Education & Resource Center in Amityville, where people caring for loved ones with dementia can connect and share with others who are going through similar experiences. Caregivers can learn more and register by calling the Center at (631) 223-4000. AFA also has a free Helpline — (866) 232-8484 — that provides caregiver support seven days a week.

Nassau and Suffolk counties’ Offices for the Aging are available to provide support and guidance to family caregivers about local, state and federal assistance programs. Local nonprofit organizations, libraries and religious institutions often have caregiver services available, which can include support groups, educational and training pro-

grams or financial assistance.

Finally, don’t be afraid, reluctant or embarrassed to ask for, or accept, help. Seeking help is a sign of neither weakness nor failure; it is an essential step toward sustaining the ability to care for a loved one. Other relatives or friends are often eager to help but don’t know exactly how; embrace these offers and explain specific things that would be helpful, such as spending time with the person so you can run errands, assisting with meals or providing transportation. Offering options allows the volunteer to decide what they are comfortable doing, while ensuring that it’s something that will be helpful.

If you know someone who’s a family caregiver, check in on them periodically and offer your help. Seemingly little things can make an enormous difference.

Former first lady Rosalynn Carter, a lifelong caregiver advocate, once said, “There are only four kinds of people in the world: those who have been caregivers, those who are caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers.” Her words reinforce the crucial need to support and prioritize Long Island’s “hidden workforce” that all of us will either be part of or depend on one day.

Charles J. Fuschillo Jr. is president and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America and a Merrick resident.