Babylon Herald 05_08_2025

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BABYLON HERALD BEACON — May 8, 2025 Courtesy Canine Companions

Canine Companions instructor Colleen Buckley with Truffle II; Debra Dougherty, executive director of the northeast region of Canine Companions; instructor Winona Fuller with Lefty III, and William Parker, president of L.E.B. Electric

Local business donates to life-changing service dog program for vets

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com

For the men and women who have sacrificed for their country, the road to healing can be long and difficult. But for many, that journey becomes a little easier with four paws and a wagging tail.

L.E.B. Electric of Amityville recently became the latest business to support Canine Companions, a national nonprofit that provides expertly trained service dogs—free of charge—to people with disabilities, including military veterans.

The company donated two “To Go Canine Care Kits,” which are given to veterans receiving a service dog. Each kit contains essentials such as food and feeding supplies, grooming tools, bedding, toys, flea, tick and heartworm medications, and a certified service

dog vest for public use—ensuring both dog and veteran can begin his isn’t just about their partnership fully equipped. giving a dog. It’s about For veterans learning to navigate civilian restoring freedom and dignity life again, or for children with disabilities to people who have given so discovering new ways much. Canine Companions to engage with the world, these dogs are does extraordinary work by more than helpers— helping our nation’s heroes they’re lifelines.

“This isn’t just about reclaim their independence giving a dog,” said Wiland quality of life. liam Parker, president of L.E.B. Electric. “It’s WILLIAM PARKER, about restoring free- President of L.E.B. Electric dom and dignity to people who have given so much. Canine Companions does ex- org. traordinary work by helping our nation’s heroes reclaim their indepen-

T

dence and quality of life.”

Since 1975, Canine Companions has placed more than 7,700 service dogs with children, adults and veterans living with disabilities. With demand growing, the organization relies on the support of volunteers and donors to continue its mission.

For more information on Canine Companions, how you can help or get help, visit: canine.

Instructor Fuller with Gonzalo.

Here are five key things to know about Canine Companions 1. Dogs with a purpose

Canine Companions trains Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers and LabGolden crosses to the highest standards as a founding member of Assistance Dogs International. These dogs don’t just sit and stay—they retrieve dropped items, open doors, assist with prosthetics and alert individuals with hearing loss to important sounds. But most importantly, they provide unconditional companionship and support.

2. Serving a broad community

These dogs are carefully matched with individuals across a wide spectrum

of needs, including adults and children with physical or cognitive disabilities, veterans facing physical challenges or post-traumatic stress disorder, and professionals in healthcare, education, visitation and criminal justice settings.

3. The journey begins with a volunteer

At just 8 weeks old, each puppy begins life with a volunteer puppy raiser who provides socialization, basic training and love for approximately a year.

It’s a crucial first step before entering formal service dog training. Anyone can apply to become a puppy raiser by calling 1-800-572-2275 or visiting shorturl. at/62gCC.

4. Every gift matters

Whether it’s a corporate sponsorship like L.E.B. Electric’s, a one-time donation, or participation in a fundraising event such as DogFest—set to take place on Long Island on Sept. 13—there are countless ways to support the mission.

To give or learn more, visit canine.org/ donate.

5. A bold vision for the future

As it approaches its 50th anniversary in July, Canine Companions has set a powerful goal: to become the only service dog organization to provide expertly trained dogs, free of charge, to all qualified applicants by 2028.

For veterans learning to navigate civilian life again, or for children with disabilities discovering new ways to engage with the world, these dogs are more than helpers—they’re lifelines.

Read and advertise in the Herald newspapers for great local news and regional coverage.

To subscribe or take out an ad call 516-569-4000

Babylon Village officials reassure residents on budget

May 8, 2025 — BABYLON HERALD BEACON

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CONTINUED FROM COVER

Christie Leigh Babirad/Herald photos

Deputy Mayor Frank Seibert, Mayor Mary Adams, Trustee Sean Goodwin and S.C. Legislator Kevin McCaffrey enjoyed the day.

BV hosts Easter Parade CONTINUED FROM COVER

In the afternoon, the Chamber and the library hosted an “Egg Stravaganza,” which included a Story Walk featuring” The Song of Spring” by Hendrik Jonas.

To add a new twist to this year’s egg hunt, the Chamber enlarged and laminated pages from the book and distributed them among local businesses. Children read the story as they made their way through the district, collecting eggs along the way. Nearly 700 children participated.

Village Trustee Sean Goodwin praised the event’s “huge turnout,” calling it a great experience for both children and their parents.

Suffolk County Legislator Kevin McCaffrey added, “The parents are just as excited as the kids. It’s another great thing the village does — it helps promote businesses, and at the end of the day, this is all about the families.”

The Easter Bunny also made a stop at

Fitness Incentive for photo ops, posing in front of a floral balloon backdrop provided by Party Fairies, the village’s newest retail store.

“Jewel of the North.”

Trustee Anthony Cardali discussed rising labor and material costs, and Trustee Sean Goodwin spoke about the financial challenges facing the historic Nathaniel Conklin House, which continues to fundraise for repairs. “It’s very difficult,” Goodwin said. “But the Conklin House is a beloved part of the village, and we must maintain its gardens year-round.”

Goodwin also praised the village staff. “I’ve never seen such hard workers,” he said. “I love Babylon Village and the Conklin House, and we do our best to watch our spending.”

Despite initial concerns, many residents left the meeting reassured. One attendee, Georgia Westcott, thanked the board and said, “I’m proud to live here and trust the decisions you’re making. I came tonight to simply hear about the tax increase.”

Adams closed the meeting by thanking attendees and adding,“We’re doing everything we can to be cost-effective.”

The proposed budget was passed following the discussion.

The board also approved the following: •Allowing Friends of the Babylon Public Library to post temporary signs from May 24–31 to advertise the “Friends Book Sale.”

•Extending the licensing agreement

between the village and The Delica Sea (doing business as C Basiano LLC) to operate the pool concession for the 2025 season.

•Allowing Fred Shores Beach Club to post temporary signs along South Little East Neck Road and on residents’ properties in advance of several upcoming events, including: May 10: Children’s Garden Planting and Clean Up (all day); May 23, June 27, July 25, Aug. 22, Sept. 26: Friday Happy Hour, 5:30–8:30 p.m. and June 14: Beach Blast with Live Music, 6–11 p.m.

•Allowing United Presbyterian Church to host a Blessing of the Backpacks at the gazebo on Aug. 28 from 6–6:30 p.m.

•Authorizing a car show at the Gilbert C. Hanse Pool on May 25 from 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

•Approving Our Lady of Lourdes hosting its golf outing at the village course on June 2 at 2 p.m., contingent upon submission of insurance and a hold harmless agreement.

•Allowing Babylon Pride to post temporary signs at local businesses from April 23 to June 1 to promote the Babylon Village Pride Parade on June 1.

The next Village of Babylon Board of Trustees meeting is scheduled for May 13 at 8 p.m. at Village Hall, 153 W. Main St.

Alena Cullinane with her daughter, Layla

Christie Leigh Babirad/Herald

Village Treasurer Andrew Reichel is shown at right at podium explaining the details of the budget to the board and the residents at the meeting.

Babylon Soldier Ride taking place July 18

Laura Kelly with her daughter, Rory

Drew Mineo with his daughter, Georgia

The annual Soldier Ride in Babylon will take place on July 18. Take part in this special 25-mile cycling brave men and women who served our country and support their journey to recovery.

If you register up until June 30, the cost for an adult is $75 and a Tshirt is included. For children ages 6

through 17, the cost is $25 per child.

Day of registration, July 1, is $100 for adults with a t-shirt included, and $40 for children.

To register and for more information, visit soldierride.org/babylon.

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, contact communitysr@ woundedwarriorproject.org. .

May 8, 2025 — BABYLON HERALD BEACON

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WHAT’S UP NEXT DOOR AND AROUND THE CORNER

HERALD NEIGHBORS Residents—and the President—weigh in on LI’s mascot fight

By CAROLYN JAMES & CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cjames@liherald.com cbabirad@liherald.com Recently President Donald Trump came out in support of school districts in New York maintaining their Native American logo, saying they honored Native American Heritage. He focused on Massapequa where school board members and residents are taking the fight to court, along with Wyandanch and Wantagh School Districts.

In a decision in Albany in April 2022, the New York State Board of Regents banned school districts in New York from using Native American names, mascots, imagery or logos. Failing to do so, the state noted would place school districts at risk of losing funding for noncompliance.

Trump issued a statement on social media in support of Massapequa keeping its team logo, The Chiefs. In the comment, he called the New York State mandate “ridiculous.”

Last week, the White House posted a photo of the President holding a Massapequa Chiefs T-shirt, once again drawing attention to the issue.

The Herald went out into the communities and spoke to residents asking them what they thought of the President’s intervention in the controversy. Here’s what they had to say.

Courtesy The White House President Donalt Trump holds Massapequa tee shirt. He has come out against NYS’s prohibitionn of against schools using Native American logos.

Veronica King - Copiague Harbor “I support the mascot staying The Chiefs.”

Robert Iannucci - West Babylon “I grew up in Massapequa and I don’t see what the big issue is. If it’s not derogatory and it’s preserving history, then it should remain; Long Island is filled with Native American history.”

Tessa Vecere - Bay Shore “I grew up in Massapequa and my ex-husband was Native American, and I think it’s a respect issue.”

Lisa Lander - Massapequa “I’m happy he’s supporting Massapequa.

I’m sure he has other things to do with his time but he’s a New Yorker and I’m glad he’s supporting The Chiefs.”

Maggie Smith - Central Islip “I think that if the Native Americans find it offensive, it should be removed.”

Jenn Pannullo - Deer Park “I’m indifferent to a mascot name being changed; there are more important things in this country that haven’t been addressed.”

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Local school district budgets going to voters May 20

May 8, 2025 — BABYLON HERALD BEACON

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space to create nurses’ offices, library expansion, and upgrades to flooring, student toilets and support offices; HVAC improvements including air conditioning of the cafeteria(s) at Copiague Middle School, Susan E. Wiley Elementary School, Deauville Gardens East and West Elementary schools, and the cafeteria and library at Great Neck Road Elementary School; additions and renovations to Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School/Copiague Middle School athletic complex to include additional site lighting, replacement of grandstand with additional structure to include restrooms, concession stand, athletic trainer room, and storage. Since taxpayers approved putting these funds in reserve in 2022, the expenditures will have no impact on the tax rate.

Voting takes place at Deauville Gardens East Elementary School, 45 Waldo St., Copiague from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more information, call the district at 631842-4015.

DEER PARK SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Deer Park School District is proposing a budget for the coming year of $153,320,108, which would be an increase in proposed spending of 6.20 percent, or $8,946,616 above the current year. The new spending plan is within the NYS Tax Cap. The current tax rate, that portion of the budget that is paid for through real property taxes, is expected to go from $234.55 to $238.87 per $100 of assessed value, estimated.

The district received $49,943,285 in state aid for the 2024-25 school year. It anticipates receiving under the governor’s proposal $56,439,938 for the 2025-26 school year.

The district has 4,112 students and 395 teachers and maintains five buildings.

In addition, voters will be asked to elect three school board members for three-year seats. Incumbent Anthony Henkel is not running for reelection. Vying for his seat are Grace Heyne and Barbara Ojeda. Incumbent Trustees Jerry Jean-Pierre and Kristine Rosales are running unopposed.

There are no other propositions on the ballot.

Voting takes place at Deer Park High School gymnasium, 1 Falcon Pl., Deer Park from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more information call the district at 631-274-4013.

FARMINGDALE

The Farmingdale School District is proposing a budget for the coming year of $206,042,592 which is an increase in proposed spending of 3 percent, or an additional $6,006,582 in spending from the current year. The new spending plan is within the NYS Tax Cap. The district is split between Nassau and Suffolk county voters and school officials said the proposed tax rate for the new budget was not available.

The district received $46,189,045 in state aid for the 2024-25 school year. It anticipates receiving under the governor’s proposal $48,802,984 for the 2025-26 school year.

The district has 5,180 students and 574 teachers and maintains six buildings.

In addition, voters will be asked to elect two school board members for threeyear seats.

Running unopposed are George Andriopoulos and incumbent Suzanne D’Amico.

There are no other propositions on the ballot.

Voting takes place at Weldon E. Howitt Middle School, aquatic center, 70 Van Cott Ave., Farmingdale from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

For more information, call the district at 516-434-5023.

LINDENHURST

The Lindenhurst School District is proposing a budget for the coming year of $197,308,708. The current budget is $191,889,187. The new spending plan is within the NYS Tax Cap. The district received $66,803,002 in state aid in the 2024-2025 school year. It anticipates receiving $72,342,579 in the 2025-2026 school year.

The current tax rate in the district is $256.01 per $100 of assessed value. The proposed rate is $260.42. Under the new spending plan, homeowners living in a house assessed at $3,500 will pay $9,114.70 in school taxes for the 2025-2026 school year.

The district has 5,598 students and 534 teachers and maintains eight buildings.

Voters will be asked to elect three school board members. Running unopposed is incumbent trustee Anthony C. Tota and Pat Natale, who is running for the seat formerly held by Edward Langone which expires June 30, 2008. Trustee Philip A. Renna is running for reelection for a 3-year seat and faces opposition from Katie Belpanno.

In addition there is a proposition asking voters to authorize the expenditure from the Capital Reserve Fund, which was established on May 15, 2018, for the following capital improvement projects: high school roofs and HVAC equipment, middle school gutter repairs and installation, district-wide plumbing repairs, repairs to the pool and pool facility, elementary school security vestibules, elementary school site work, district-wide electrical upgrades, and other districtneeded capital improvement work and materials required in connection. The total needed from the Reserve Fund, including preliminary costs and costs incidental, is an amount not to exceed $2,226,569.

Voting takes place from 6 a.m., to 9 p.m., at Albany Avenue Elementary School, 180 Albany Ave.; Daniel Street School, 289 Daniel Street; Harding Avenue, 2 Harding Ave.; William Rall, 761 North Wellwood Ave., and Lindenhurst Middle School, 350 South Wellwood Ave.

NORTH BABYLON

The North Babylon School District is proposing a budget of $153,731,203, an increase from this year’s budget of $145,752,492, or 5.47 percent. The proposed budget is within the NYS Tax Cap. The current tax rate per $100 of as-

sessed value is $228.20 and is expected to go to $233.09 under the new spending plan if approved.

The district received $65,912,157 in state aid for the 2024-25 school year.

It anticipates receiving $71,775,022 for the 2025-26 school year.

The district has 4,487 students and 432 teachers and maintains seven buildings.

In addition, voters will be asked to elect two school board members for three-year seats. Running unopposed are incumbent trustees Heather Rowland and Kat Tedesco.

There are no other propositions on the ballot.

Voting takes place at North Babylon High School, 1 Phelps La., North Babylon from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. For more information call the district at 631-620-7011.

WEST BABYLON

The West Babylon School District is proposing a budget of $136,150,120, a 0.146 percent reduction from this year’s budget of $136,349,275. The proposed budget is within the NYS Tax Cap. The total tax levy, that portion of the budget that is paid for through real property taxes, will go from $84,284,633 to $86,024,802.

The district is expected to receive $45,073,686 in state aid for the coming year. It received $43,439,598 in the 2024-2005-school year.

The district has 3,660 students and maintains six school buildings, a bus garage and driver’s den.

In addition, voters will be asked to elect four candidates to the school board.

Five candidates are running: Franklin Medina, Jr., Katie Armato, Christopher Paolillo, Chirsten Johnson Tymann and Christopher J. O. Connor. The four receiving the highest number of votes will be seated.

There are no other propositions on the ballot.

Voting takes place at Santapogue Elementary School, 1130 Herzel Blvd., and Central Administration building, 10 Farmingdale Rd. from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

For more information, call the district at 631-376-7008.

WEST ISLIP

The West Islip School District is proposing a budget of $141,439,000, an increase in spending of $2,677,010, or 1.93 percent, over last year’s budget of $138,761,990. The proposed budget is within the NYS Tax Cap. The current tax rate is $20.90 and is expected to go to $21.56 under the new spending plan if approved.

The district received $36,387,350 in state aid for the 2024-25 school year. It anticipates receiving $36,074,489 for the 2025-26 school year.

The district has 3,716 students and 398 teachers and maintains seven buildings.

In addition, voters will be asked to elect three school board members for three-year seats. Running at large are Grace Kelly, Christina Marks, Peter McCann and Thomas Pastore.

An additional proposition on the ballot asks voters to approve utilizing $700,000 from an existing Capital Reserve Fund to enhance security at the high school by installing electronic locks and card access readers for all classrooms and bathrooms. These expenses will not have an impact on the school tax rate.

Voting takes place at West Islip High School, 1 Lions Path, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

For more information, call the district at 631-930-1507

Lindenhurst man accused of voting twice in 2024 election, faces felony charges A Lindenhurst man has been arrested and charged with allegedly submitting an early mail ballot in another person’s name and later voting in the 2024 general election, Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney announced.

Christopher Lindenberg, 54, was arrested April 8 by investigators from the district attorney’s Public Corruption Bureau. He was arraigned before Suffolk County District Court Judge Jonathan R. Bloom on one count each of offering a false instrument for filing and falsifying business records, both Class E felonies.

Tierney said Lindenberg used the state’s early mail ballot portal on Oct. 19, 2024, to request a ballot in someone else’s name without their knowledge. The ballot was sent to Lindenberg’s home and received Oct. 24. He allegedly filled out and signed the ballot and its envelope on Oct. 26. The Suffolk County Board of Elections received the ballot on Oct. 30, and it was counted during early voting.

Authorities say that when the actual voter later tried to cast their ballot on Election Day, they were turned away because their vote had already been recorded.

Lindenberg then allegedly voted in person under his own name, effectively casting two ballots in the same election.

“Confidence in electoral systems is integral to a free society,” Tierney said in a statement. “My office is committed to ensuring the reliability of our voting process.”

The judge released Lindenberg on his own recognizance. Under New York law, the charges are not bail-eligible, meaning prosecutors cannot request, and judges cannot set, bail.

Lindenberg is represented by attorney Scott Gross. He is scheduled to appear in court again on May 21.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Alexander D. Sylvan of the Public Corruption Bureau.

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BABYLON HERALD BEACON — May 8, 2025