HERALD BABYLON
Carolyn James/Herald Rob Free, president of the LIRR, speaks at the press conference.
MTA announces completion of Babylon RR station upgrades
By CAROLYN JAMES & CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD Herald Reporters
The MTA held a press conference to announce the completion of a $127 million project at the Babylon Rail Road Station, the first major overhaul in roughly 60 years.
Standing in front of the newly upgraded station with LIRR employees on Wednesday, June 3, contractors and public officials, Rob Free, president of the LIRR said: “Amazingly this was all done while providing continuous elevator, service and minimal customer impact.”
“Governor Hochul has made a strong commitment to the operations of the entire MTA network, most certainly for us here on Long Island, where the LIRR is a vital lifeline to so many folks and a main component of our economy,” said Anthony Tufano, MTA Construction & Development Senior Vice President.
The MTA recently reopened the western half of the station’s platform. That section had been closed for about eight months while crews replaced aging infrastructure dating to the 1960s.
The work completed so far includes:
•Reconstructing part of the station platform.
•Installing new ADA-accessible elevators.
•Replacing or upgrading escalators.
•Adding new lighting, digital information screens and platform canopies.
•Installing an automated snow- and icemelting system beneath the platform.
•Beginning upgrades to the station plaza and passenger areas.
In addition, the LIRR has lengthened the platform so that riders now have access to all the cars pulling into the station.
The overall renovation is expected to continue through 2026, with work shifting to the eastern half of the platform and remaining station improvements. Future work also includes completing one of the four new elevators and completing the station’s canopy.
“The goal is to have all of that done for the summer season,” said Free.
At the press conference expressing pride in the work were LIRR and Forte Construction men and women who worked on. the project.
“It is the little things that bring a project like this all together,” said Devica Das-Collado, who
Babylon Village’s Heroes Fountain fundraiser June 28
By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com
Excitement is building at the Village of Babylon Historical and Preservation Society as invitations have arrived for the Heroes Fountain Cocktail Party and Tribute Brick Fundraiser, scheduled for June 28 from 4 to 6 p.m.
The event will give the public an opportunity to purchase commemorative bricks that can be inscribed with the name and symbol of an essential worker while also learning more about the progress — and challenges — surrounding the Heroes Fountain project.
“This is something everybody can be a part of,” said Judy Skillen, president of the Village of Babylon Historical and Preservation Society.
The Heroes Fountain, planned for Hawley’s Pond, is intended to honor the essential workers who served the community during the Covid-19 pandemic and those who continue to do so today. The project, led by the Heroes Fountain Committee and spearheaded by Skillen and society historian Wayne Horsley, has been in development for nearly three years.
Skillen said the fundraiser is designed not only to help offset costs, but also to keep the public informed about the project’s
progress and setbacks.
The fountain is being designed by California artist José Ismael Fernandez, whose work includes the Robert Moses sculpture and Baymen monument in Babylon Village. The concept was originally created by local artist and teacher Shawn Uttendorfer and his wife Allyson.
“The Uttendorfers have been significant to the entire ongoing development of the fountain,” Skillen said. “Without them and their knowledge of the technology, this wouldn’t be possible; they made this process so much easier.”
One of the project’s biggest challenges has been designing and constructing the fountain’s base, which will be created by a different manufacturer than Fernandez.
“We have the cost of the statue of the nurse—we know how much that’s going to cost, but we’re trying to figure out the (the cost of the) base,” Skillen said.
Horsley added that the committee hopes to use granite to ensure durability.
Another unexpected obstacle involved the property itself. Committee members initially believed the village owned the entire proposed site but later learned a portion near Route 231 belongs to the New York State Department of Transportation.
stAY ConneCteD suBsCriBe toDAY
Richard Kessel appointed chair of NHCC
By JORDAN VALLONE jvalloneliherald.com
Richard Kessel, chairman of the Nassau Interim Finance Authority, has been tapped by Gov. Kathy Hochul to be the next chairman of the Nassau Health Care Corporation, the public benefit corporation that oversees Nassau University Medical Center, in East Meadow, and the A. Holly Patterson Extended Care Facility, in Uniondale.
Richard
A regional leader for decades, Kessel, of Merrick, is known for his expertise on energy and consumer issues and has an extensive background in public service. He previously served as chairman of the Nassau County Industrial Development Agency and as chief executive officer of the New York Power Authority. Kessel, 76, has a bachelor’s degree from New York University and a master’s from Columbia University.
NHCC continues its mission of providing high-quality care to the communities we serve.”
Kessel’s appointment to the NHCC board means he will step down from NIFA. His position there will be filled by Moshin Meghji, a current NIFA board member.
The finance authority, another public benefit corporation, monitors and oversees Nassau County’s finances. It assumed direct financial oversight of NUMC in 2020, a move that was met with heavy opposition from previous hospital leadership.
KATHY HOCHUL Governor of NY
As part of the state’s takeover last year, it mandated that NHCC conduct a comprehensive study outlining the long-term viability of NUMC. The study is to be submitted to NIFA by Dec. 1.
• New chairman: Gov. Kathy Hochul appointed Richard Kessel, chairman of the Nassau Interim Finance Authority, to lead the Nassau Health Care Corporation.
• Leadership change: Kessel succeeds Stuart Rabinowitz, who stepped down in March after leading NHCC since June 2025.
“Richard Kessel brings decades of leadership experience in government, public policy and complex organizations,” Hochul said of Monday’s appointment in a statement emailed to the Herald. “His proven record of public service, commitment to Long Island and ability to navigate challenging issues make him exceptionally well-suited to lead the board as
The NHCC chair’s position has been vacant since March, when former Chairman Stuart Rabinowitz stepped down. Rabinowitz had served in the role since June 2025, after being appointed by Hochul when state officials assumed leadership of the public hospital and its governing body.
Rabinowitz’s departure came during a turbulent period for NUMC. Following a public battle between the hospital’s former leadership and the state, New York assumed oversight of the hospital under provisions included in the 2025-26 state
budget. The board was restructured to include 11 members, most of whom were appointed by Hochul.
When Rabinowitz stepped down, Hochul thanked him for his service, saying he “stepped up when Nassau University Medical Center desperately needed steady, serious leadership.” She added that “his focus on accountability and fiscal management has helped put this critical safety-net hospital on the road to recovery.”
Richard Kessel
Babylon Town honors Suffolk police officers for heroic efforts
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherld.com
The Babylon Town Board recognized nine members of the Suffolk County Police Department during a recent meeting for their response to a pediatric cardiac arrest emergency in West Babylon on Easter Sunday.
Town officials said the officers were honored for their professionalism, teamwork and quick actions during a medical emergency involving a 4-year-old child. Working alongside emergency medical personnel, the officers helped restore the child’s pulse before the child was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital.
The officers recognized by the board were Officers Ayrton Abril, Alper Bari, Branden Casco, Brendan Greaney, Kenneth Read, Christopher Tocco and Frank Pristera, as well as Lt. Salvatore Gigante and Sgt. Brandon Picarillo.
Councilman Terrence McSweeney,
chairman of the town’s Public Safety Committee, led the recognition ceremony and commended the officers for their efforts.
“These officers demonstrated the very best of law enforcement,” McSweeney said. “Their training, professionalism, teamwork and ability to remain calm under pressure helped save the life of a 4-year-old child. We are grateful for their service and proud to recognize their heroic actions on behalf of the residents of the Town of Babylon.”
Each officer received a proclamation from the Town Board recognizing their dedication to public service and their role in the life-saving response.
Supervisor Rich Schaffer said the incident underscores the commitment shown by first responders every day.
“When a family faced one of the most frightening moments imaginable, these officers answered the call and made a difference,” Schaffer said. “Their quick
Meet some local scholars...
The following students were recently recognized for academic achievements and graduation at their respective colleges:
•The following students were recently named to the Dean’s List at Southern New Hampshire University: Janette Gonzalez of West Islip and Keriann Leppla of Lindenhurst.
•The following Salve Regina University students were recently awarded diplomas at the university’s 76th commencement: Lucinda Bouzi of West Babylon and Nina Westerlind of West Islip.
•Joseph F. Walas of West Islip was recently among The University of Scranton students who combined to place in 16 events at the Future Business Leaders of America, FBLA, Pennsylvania state championship, winning four state competitions and five runner-up finishes.
•Kaylee Lamar of Lindenhurst and
Isabella Pop of North Babylon were recently named to the Dean’s List at Shenandoah University.
•The following students were recently inducted into The Omega of New York Chapter of Phi Beta Kappa at Hofstra University: Ipek Basturk of Deer Park, majoring in Pre-Medical Studies; Caroline Cassidy of Babylon, majoring in Linguistics and Mathematics; and Linda Gherardi of West Babylon, majoring in Political Science at Hofstra University.
•The following students were among the University of Scranton Class of 2026 graduates: Vilson Dushi of West Babylon earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in accounting and Fara C. Etienne of Wheatley Heights earned a Master of Business Administration/Master of Health Administration dual degree in healthcare management and health administration.
actions and unwavering commitment to protecting our residents exemplify the highest standards of public service.”
Town officials said the ceremony highlighted the critical role first responders
play in protecting the community and demonstrated the importance of coordination between law enforcement and emergency medical personnel during life-threatening emergencies.
Student gains hands-on experience through Babylon Town internship
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherld.com
After one semester at Florida State University, Lindenhurst resident Jack Connors realized the college he had chosen was not the right fit for him.
With the support of his family, Connors returned home, enrolled as an accounting major at Suffolk County Community College and secured an internship with the Town of Babylon — an experience he said has provided valuable real-world lessons.
“I knew I wanted to combine college with some work experience,” Connors said. “And this is the perfect fit.”
Connors serves as an intern in the office of Babylon Town Clerk Gerry Compitello, where he answers phones, assists residents and helps with daily office operations.
Compitello said Connors quickly became a valuable member of the office.
“He is smart, personable and asks a lot of questions and is willing to learn,” she said.
During the internship, Connors has worked directly with constituents both in person and over the phone while gaining experience in workplace communication and office procedures. He has also learned practical skills such as maintaining professional workplace attire, handling administrative tasks and supporting the day-to-day functions of the clerk’s office.
“These are skills every employee needs, in every job; skills that are really not taught in school,” Compitello said.
hard
Babylon Town Clerk’s office where, he said, he has gained valuable experience
She added that the experience has benefited the office staff as well by providing opportunities to develop their mentoring skills.
This fall, Connors will transfer to Binghamton University to continue his studies, bringing with him the knowledge and experience he gained during his time with the town.
“I learned a lot, know a lot more about what I want and I am grateful to have had this experience,” Connors said.
For more information about internship opportunities with the Town of Babylon, visit townofbabylonny. gov/948/Ujima-Program.
Courtesy Town of Babylon
Nine S.C. Police officers from the First Precinct were recently recognized by the Town of Babylon.
Carolyn James/Herald
Jack Connors
at work in
The following incidents have been reported by the Suffolk County Police Department and other law enforcement and emergency service units.
PETIT LARCENY
North Amityville: Someone stole a mountain bike from in front of a home on 41st Street June 2. The theft was reported at 10:21 p.m.
Copiague: An unidentified male went into Target department store at 1149 Sunrise Highway and left with an undetermined amount of health and beauty supplies without paying for the items. The theft was reported shortly after 2 p.m., June 5.
Deer Park: A Deer Park man was arrested and charged with stealing an assortment of alcoholic beverages from Stop & Shop supermarket on Commack Road June 3. Charged in that incident was Arun Sadana, 56, of 411 Baldin Path, Deer Park.
West Islip: Representatives of Stop & Shop Supermarket at 400 Union Boulevard called police at 5 p.m., May 31 to report that. Someone entered the store and left with a shopping cart full of groceries without paying for the items.
GRAND LARCENY
Lindenhurst: A resident of 32nd Street called police to report that an unknown person somehow gained access to his/ her IRA account and removed more than $30,000 without their knowledge or consent. Police are investigating.
CRIME WATCH
•An individual or individuals broke into. Two vehicles parked on Centre Avenue June 4. The owners of the vehicles reported that cash, identification papers and an iPhone were stolen from the vehicles.
North Lindenhurst: More than $1,000 in merchandise was stolen from Sunoco Gasoline Station at 86 Sunrise Highway June 4. The police report did not indicate what items were stolen. The report was filed shortly before 1 p.m., that day.
West Babylon: Three people went. Into Marshalls department store on Montauk Highway shortly before 10 a.m., June 4, removed items and left the store without paying for them.
CRIMINAL TRESPASS
Suffolk Police arrested Melvin Russell, of 110 Nathalie Ave., North Amityville and charged him with entering and remaining with a condemned residential home. The arrest was made at 11:44 a.m., June 3.
ARRESTS
Driving While Intoxicated - Eduardo N. Cardenas, 48 Aero Rd., Bohemia; Matthew R. Dybus, 33 Fulton St., Farmingdale; Moreno Santa, 48, of67 Grand Blvd., Wyandanch; Moreno Santa, 48, of 67 Grand Blvd., Wyandanch; Sarah Abraham, 29, of 420 6th St., West Babylon; Innocent Nathael, 34, 185 N. 27th St., Wyandanch.
Petit Larceny - Douglas Dovale, 54 of 295 W. 9th St., Deer Park; Emily Sienkiewicz, 32, of 71 Arlington Rd., West Babylon;
Gina Barrera, 52, of 134 Boyle Rd., Senden; Desiree Hunte, 45, of 57 Nevada Rd., West Babylon; Arun Sadana, 56, of 411 Baldwin Path, Deer Park.
Grand Larceny - Wayne Toney, 310
Trouville Rd., Copiague. Assault - Juan P. Mendez, 36 Etna Ct., Amityville; Jose Torres, 43, of 49 Brooklyn Ave., Wyandanch.
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.
West Islip man charged in boating incident near Captree
A West Islip man was arrested Friday night June 6 after police said he operated a boat erratically in the Great South Bay near Captree Island and attempted to flee responding Coast Guard personnel.
According to Suffolk County police, Marine Bureau officers and the U.S. Coast Guard responded after a 911 caller reported a 24-foot boat moving erratically west of Captree Island at approximately 8 p.m.
Police said that when Coast Guard personnel arrived, the boat operator attempted to flee before running the vessel aground. The boat’s engine
overheated and caught fire, according to police, but the operator shut off the engine and the fire was extinguished.
Marine Bureau officers took the operator into custody and brought him to Timber Point, where a Suffolk County Police SAFE-Team officer conducted field testing.
Police arrested Abimal Acosta, 58, of West Islip, and charged him with boating while intoxicated at 10:18 p.m. Acosta was held overnight at the Third Precinct and was scheduled to be arraigned at First District Court in Central Islip on June 6.
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.
gov.
TUESDAY, JUNE 23
• 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.
• West Babylon School Board of Education meeting: 7 p.m. at the West Babylon Administration Building, 10 Farmingdale Rd., W. Babylon. For info., call 631-376-7008.
THURSDAY, JUNE 25
• 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.
■ WEB SITE: www.babylonbeacon.com / www.liherald.com/Babylon
■ E-MAIl: Letters and other submissions: cjames@liherald.com
ERASE Racism hosts forum on inequality
By ANDREW FRANCIS afrancis@liherald.com
The Long Island-based advocacy group ERASE Racism held its 25th Anniversary Benefit event earlier this month, giving out awards for anti-racism and anti-discrimination work and awarding scholarships to students who embody the organization’s values.
Hundreds of guests crowded the Garden City Hotel on June 3 for a cocktail hour and to take part in ERASE Racism’s silent auction, where items ranging from artwork to lottery tickets were bid on for up to thousands of dollars. The funds will go to ERASE Racism advocacy initiatives for public education and housing equality.
Students Ria Bhatia, of Jericho High School; Edwin Montes Dubon, of Uniondale High; Zamari Paul, of Malverne High; and Janeiry Savinon, of New Hyde Park High, were each awarded $500 scholarships for winning a student essay contest. Malverne High student Matthew DaCosta was awarded the $1,500 John Wenzel Scholarship for his work with ERASE Racism.
Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones and activist Monique Fitzgerald were honored with special awards for their advocacy against structural racism. HannahJones’s work on the 1619 Project, a New York Times Magazine and audio series
examining the beginnings of American slavery and its generational effects, was highlighted during the program.
Hannah-Jones and Elaine Gross, ERASE Racism’s founding president, had a “fireside chat,” discussing how racism continues to impact life for minorities, particularly Black communities, on Long Island and across the country.
“This is a hard time for civil rights organizations, because there is a very organized and powerful effort from the highest reaches of the government that basically is saying there is nothing
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
called structural racism,” Gross told the Herald before the event.
She identified an April settlement between the U.S. Justice Department and the Town of Oyster Bay over alleged housing discrimination as an example of structural racism on Long Island. In the case, which was settled in U.S. District Court, the town was found liable for “intentionally discriminating against Black individuals” by giving the children of current residents priority in purchasing housing units under its Next Generation housing program. This allegedly hindered the ability of Blacks and
other racial minorities to buy homes in predominantly white Oyster Bay.
Hannah-Jones pointed out that racism on Long Island often is not a conscious effort by residents, but rather the result of the region’s historically discriminatory structure.
“You as an individual white person don’t have to be racist at all to have your housing choices and the benefits of your housing choices shaped by a structure that you have nothing to do with creating,” she said.
Talking more about the 1619 Project and contemporary racism, Hannah-Jones contended that the sanitized way in which many schools and institutions deal with America’s racist history is counterproductive to the goal of erasing racism.
“The truth about America is deeply heartbreaking,” she said, “but I find the truth to be a liberating thing, because one can confront the truth that everything that is within the law is constructed. If you know that it’s constructed, then you know it can be deconstructed.”
Hannah-Jones acknowledged that she was not very optimistic about race relations and how discrimination is handled in the U.S., citing the current administration as a reason for such pessimism. But, she and Gross said they believe that as today’s young people advocate for social justice, they have the potential to unlock a better future for Long Island and beyond.
OBITUARY
Sue Dillhoff (nee Budelman)
Eveline Susanne “Sue” Dillhoff (nee Budelman) age 85 of Hudson, NY 12/30/40 - 6/6/2026. Sue was predeceased by her husband Charlie in 2023. She is survived by daughters Jennifer (Jim LaGrassa) Kathleen (John Dady) much loved grandkids James LaGrassa, Julianne LaGrassa, Ryan Dady and William Dady as well as a large and loving family & many friends.
Calling Hours Friday June 19th 4-7 pm at Bates and Anderson Funeral Home, Hudson NY. Mass on Saturday June 20th 12:00 pm at St. Josephs Catholic Church, Stuyvesant, NY burial will immediately follow the Mass. In lieu of flowers donations to Community Hospice and St. Jude’s Children Hospital.
Courtesy ERASE Racism
Elaine Gross, founding president of ERASE Racism, left, hosted a “fireside chat” with Nikole Hannah-Jones on the continuing impact of racism on Long Island.
Babylon Village’s Heroes Fountain fundraiser June 28
“So, we reached out to talk to them about this property and when we told them about what we wanted to do, they were so enthused, but only if the fountain stays on village property,” Skillen said.
To address the issue, the committee hired Nelson and Pope Engineering, Architecture and Land Surveying to determine exactly where the monument can be placed.
“They have reassured us that we will have plenty of property to put the statue on,” Skillen said.
The project has also required approvals from the state Department
of Environmental Conservation and additional planning related to the fountain’s water source.
Despite the delays, organizers said fundraising efforts have been successful.
“On the positive side, we have gotten grants from the governor’s office, Senator Monica Martinez, the county and the town, and we have raised financially through events a little under $100,000,” Horsley said.
In total, the committee has raised roughly $650,000, some of which has already been spent on planning and development.
Skillen said proceeds from the brick campaign will help address rising costs
while allowing residents to leave a permanent mark on the project.
“The base and the property have become our biggest delays,” she said.
Horsley said the monument’s purpose extends beyond honoring frontline workers.
“For all these projects there’s always been an undercurrent of why are you spending money on a Baymen versus why aren’t you spending money on people who are poor,” he said. “And I wanted to emphasize that particularly with the Heroes Fountain, this project shoots to the heart of going against the negativity and meanness in society because this says ‘thank you’—this says thank you to the fire department; this says thank you to the police department; this says thank you to our teachers; this says thank you to our retail workers that during covid sat behind a cash register; and it says thank you in particular to something we want to emphasize—the health community, the EMS, and the crowning person who is on top of this fountain—the nurse.”
He added that the monument is intended to celebrate kindness, service and community spirit.
“We’re celebrating what’s right in America and it ties right into the 250th Anniversary of our country,” Horsley said, adding that he believes the fountain may be one of the first monuments of its kind and scale in the nation.
Skillen said the project aligns with the historical society’s broader mission.
“The historical society, if we have a legacy, we hope that the Village of Babylon will say, ‘wow, history is saved here,’” she said.
The commemorative bricks are being donated by Roberto Nicolia, who also hosted a fundraiser for the project at his home in fall 2024.
“He has been the wind under our wings,” Horsley said.
He stressed that the project has relied on support from many community members.
“There’s an army of people outside of us and this couldn’t happen without all of them,” he said.
Babylon RR station upgrades
Jennifer Wern of Lindenhurst pointed to the need for the upgrades. “The renovations are really nice—much needed for sure,” she said. I’ve lived here my whole life.”
Debbie Quinn of Babylon agreed. “I think the renovations are great,” she said. For more information on the LIRR, schedules, fares and more, go to mta.info/ agency/long-island-rail-road
Christie Leigh Babirad/Herald
Judy Skillen, president of the Village of Babylon Historical and Preservation Society with Historian Wayne Horsley holding up the invitation to their Heroes Fountain Cocktail and Tribute Brick Fundraiser.
Purtell
Talent, teamwork and passion bring choirs together Event marks
the 50th anniversary of OLG choir
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com
This year, the Our Lady of Grace Choir celebrated its 50th anniversary marking the event with a concert with more than 100 choir members from local churches participating.
The community gathered to celebrate the occasion at the church on Albin Avenue, West Babylon on May 17. The choir has been led by Terence Purtell for the last 20 years who described the event as “an incredible feat of teamwork.
“We had 11 different parish choirs involved with each guest choir preparing with its own music directors for the entire year,” said Purtell. “We had just one dress rehearsal together to make sure that we were in sync and we all did it,” he noted with pride.
Approximately 150 people attended.
“It was absolutely beautiful and we all enjoyed the concert very much,” said Donna Deodato, a parishioner who attended with her family. “They did an outstanding job.”
Erin Barrett, director of the choir from Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Lindenhurst which participated in the event, described the experience as delightful and uplifting.
“We had never done anything like that before and it is amazing how everything came together so beautifully,” she said. “All of the members of the choir enjoyed in tremendously. Terence did a wonderful job.”
In addition to the choir from Our Lady of Perpetual Help, other local choirs included those from Our Lady of Lourdes in Massapequa Park, Saint Killian in Farmingdale, and St. Rose of Lima. In Massapequa.
In addition to the adult members of the choir, it included young performers as well. The the music was provided by an orchestra, which included Samantha. Stainkamp, James Kendall, Bernadette Tornabene, Michelle Lisi, Rodger Lee, John Buckel and Grace Rossi.
Following the performance, attendees were treated to refreshments at the church, which included a cake celebrating the church’s music ministry from 1976 to 2026.
The event also recognized the 100th birthday of the late Nelson Pintillo, one of the first parishioners of Our Lady of Grace Church.
“We are proud of what we were able to accomplish and the music directors from the 11 choirs that joined us that day did a great job preparing their groups; we could not have asked for more,” said Purtell.
For information on the OLG choir call the church at (631) 422-9999.
Carolyn James/Herald
Our Lady of Grace choir director Terence
conducts the orchestra and singers during the anniversary celebration.
LIQUOR STORE
WINE SHOP
STEPPING OUT
‘Celebrity Autobiography’ is back in the spotlight
By Iris Wiener
For more than three decades, Angelo Fraboni has built a career that spans Broadway stages, national tours, arts administration, and theatrical producing. Today, while serving as Artistic Director of the Madison Theatre, on the Molloy University campus, Fraboni continues to leave his mark on the professional theater world as a producer of Broadway’s “Celebrity Autobiography,” the comedic sensation currently delighting audiences once again after its original Drama Deskwinning run in 2008.
The show, created by Eugene Pack, takes passages from celebrity memoirs and transforms them into a live comedy event performed by well-known actors. For Fraboni, the appeal of the production has remained remarkably consistent since he first became involved. “Laughter,” he says when asked why the show continues to resonate.
“Everyone needs something to laugh at and just enjoy where you don’t have to think very hard. It’s easy laughter. We’re not making fun of people; we’re just reading this banal dialogue that people write in their autobiographies.”
That spirit of spontaneity has helped make “Celebrity Autobiography” a unique theatrical experience. Unlike most productions, the cast has little rehearsal time together before stepping onstage.
“The actors are cracking each other up as much as they’re cracking up the audience,” Fraboni says. “The greatest thing about the show is the rawness of it and these celebrities being human on stage with each other. It’s glorious.”
Fraboni has been involved with the production since its early years, serving as both producer and general manager before focusing exclusively on producing. He has helped bring the show to audiences across the United States and around the world, while continuing to oversee one of its most challenging components: casting. While the rotating cast has already featured the likes of Katie Couric, Rita Wilson, Keenan Thompson, and Tony Shalhoub, it also has an especially strong Long Island connection, featuring local entertainment icons such as Alan Zweibel, Susan Lucci, Ralph Macchio, and Ray Romano. Pack and co-producer
Douglas Denoff are also from the area.
While Fraboni’s current work places him at the center of Broadway and Off-Broadway productions, his path to producing began far from New York. Raised in a mining town in northern Minnesota, he started ballet lessons at age six alongside his twin brother.
“I was really into sports,” he recalls. “My mom and dad said, ‘Why don’t you take ballet? It will help with your athleticism.’”
What began as an extracurricular activity soon became a career. After high school, Fraboni joined a ballet company and performed professionally for five years. A chance audition for “West Side Story” during an off-season changed everything. The opportunity introduced him to acclaimed choreographer and director Jerry Mitchell, who cast Fraboni in six of his first seven productions. The experience ultimately led to his Broadway debut in “Cats” and opened doors throughout the industry.
As a performer, Fraboni developed a habit that would later serve him well as a producer and artistic leader.
“I would listen and watch,” he says. “I wanted to hear what the directors and choreographers were saying. I was very tuned in to what was going on.”
Eventually, curiosity about the creative process led him offstage and into producing. The transition revealed a side of theater audiences rarely see.
“As a performer, you show up to the theater do your job, and get your paycheck,” he says. “As a producer, you’re working constantly for months and months, sometimes years. Your job is never done.”
That commitment to building opportunities for others became the foundation of his work at Molloy University. Fraboni’s connection to the institution dates back more than two decades, when he helped bring Broadway legend Carol Channing to campus for a gala performance. There, he met then-president Drew Bogner, who shared plans to build a theater. One decade later, Fraboni received a call encouraging him to apply for the artistic director position at the newly constructed Madison Theatre.
“It was still a shell,” he remembers. “I was instrumental in how they built the infrastructure.”
Over the next 15 years, Fraboni transformed the Rockville Centre venue into a regional performing arts center featuring Broadway-caliber productions, symphony performances, international artists, jazz concerts, and educational opportunities. He also played a key role in bringing the renowned CAP21 musical theater program to Molloy, creating new pathways for aspiring performers.
“The idea was to make it an arts center with a variety of art,” he says. “I wanted it to be a regional theatre and performing arts center, but also give the students the opportunity to grow and perform with professionals.”
Despite balancing productions at Molloy with responsibilities on “Celebrity Autobiography,” Fraboni says the rewards make the long hours worthwhile.
“The joys are the audiences laughing and enjoying what we do,” he says. “We create what we think will be the best thing possible for our audiences to see, and the payoff is when they enjoy it.”
Whether producing a Broadway comedy, mentoring students at Molloy, or developing new artistic opportunities on Long Island, Fraboni remains committed to the idea that theater is ultimately about people coming together.
“There’s nothing like going to the theater, laughing with people, and experiencing a journey,” he says. “Everybody is emotionally affected differently by a show. That’s inspiring to me.”
Visit celebrityautobiography.com for more information or to purchase tickets.
Dion
A familiar favorite returns to a legendary stage as Dion takes the spotlight for a concert honoring Westbury Music Fair’s 70th anniversary. The Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, whose history with the iconic venue spans decades, is returning to live performance after stepping back from regular touring in recent years. While he has been largely absent from the concert circuit, Dion has remained remarkably productive, releasing new music and books while continuing to earn acclaim for his blues recordings. In the past two years alone, he released The Rock and Roll Philosopher along with a companion book, further showcasing the creativity that has defined a career spanning more than six decades. His recent blues albums have topped the Billboard Blues chart, introducing his work to new audiences while reaffirming his place among America’s enduring musical voices. Best known for classic hits such as “Runaround Sue,” “The Wanderer,” and “Ruby Baby,” Dion continues to evolve as an artist well into his 80s.
Saturday, June 20, 8 p.m. Flagstar at Westbury Music Fair, 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury. Tickets available at LiveNation.com.
Get ready for an evening of sharp observations and quick-fire punchlines that are Daniel Tosh’s signature irreverent style when he brings My First Farewell Tour to he Paramount stage. Acclaimed for his quick wit and deadpan delivery, he’s built a devoted following through both stand-up and television. After graduating from the University of Central Florida with a degree in marketing, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue comedy full-time. His career gained national attention following a standout appearance on The Late Show with David Letterman in 2001, leading to appearances Comedy Central Presents, Premium Blend and The Tonight Show. Tosh became a household name as the creator and host of Tosh.0, the longrunning Comedy Central hit that paired viral internet videos with his trademark commentary and satirical take on pop culture.
Tuesday, June 23, 7 and 9:30 p.m. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington.
Daniel Tosh
Courtesy Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade Scott Adsit and Rita Wilson are among the show’s rotating cast.
Courtesy Michaelah Reynolds
Angelo Fraboni is all smiles on opening night with his wife, Michelle Fraboni and his Molloy students Grace McNally, left, and Skylar Faith Ludwig.
Your Neighborhood CALENDAR
Jun
18
Wendy Klemperer: Wrought Taxonomies
Vanderbilt Museum welcomes everyone to enjoy the exhibition of outdoor sculpture at the historic summer estate of William Kissam Vanderbilt II. Klemperer’s sculptures. a haunting assemblage of animal forms that span imaginary, endangered, familiar, and exotic species, celebrate natural history and the nonhuman world through evocative interactions with the surrounding environment. Using materials salvaged from scrapyards, she composes ecological narratives that respond to the history and collections of Suffolk County’s first public park and museum. Her brilliant use of gestural lines captures the spectator’s attention and invites museum-goers to reflect on the relationship between an interest in animal life and the incessant push of human industry. Visitors are encouraged to picnic on the grounds.
• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport
• Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Contact: vanderbiltmuseum. org or call (631) 854-5579
‘Everybody Loves Raymond: Celebrating 30 Years’
Visit the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame for an immersive exhibit (designed by LIMEHOF Creative Director, renowned designer Kevin O’Callaghan). It features the 70-foot-wide set from the show’s recent 30th anniversary TV special on CBS, never before on display. Visitors can walk into the world of the Barone family and explore their home through original studio sets, which include the living room, the kitchen and other areas of the house. Also see a variety of iconic items, including original clothing, the famous fork and spoon, and the Christmas toaster, among other classic items from the series. Multimedia clips, including behind the scenes and rare out-takes and a range of related videos play in LIMEHOF’s surround sound theater.
• Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook
• Time: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
• Contact: limusichalloffame.org or (631) 689-5888
‘Night of Hope’
North Babylon Relay For Life hosts “A Night of Hope” at Town of Babylon Town Hall Park. Grab a chair and join the community for an inspiring evening featuring survivor and
Stavros Halkias
Stavros Halkias’s The Dreamboat Tour hits the Paramount stage. He delivers the sharp observations, self-deprecating humor and quick wit that have made him one of comedy’s fastest-rising stars. Originally from Baltimore and now based in New York City, Halkias recently wrote, produced and starred in the independent comedy Let’s Start a Cult. His latest standup special, Fat Rascal, is streaming on Netflix, following the success of his debut special, Live at the Lodge Room, which attracted millions of viewers online. Beyond the stage, Halkias hosts the hit podcast Stavvy’s World, which quickly climbed the comedy charts and built a devoted following. He also stars in the Netflix comedy series Tires and is set to appear in A24’s Tony, inspired by the life of Anthony Bourdain. Known for his candid storytelling and relatable humor, Halkias has built a loyal fan base through stand-up, podcasting and acting. He has also been featured in Steven Soderbergh’s sci-fi series Command Z. Outside of comedy, he made his runway debut at KidSuper’s Paris Fashion Week show in 2023, earning Vogue’s nod as “the plus-est of plus-size models.” His ultimate dream? Get just famous enough to buy his mother a nice home — then retire from show business to open a surf-and-turf restaurant in East Baltimore.
caregiver speakers. Walk a few laps, taking in the luminaries around the lake, enjoy the music and spend time with family and friends. A survivor and caregiver dessert reception follows the first laps.
• Where: Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst
• Time: 7-10 p.m.
• Contact: Register by emailing lmckenna1960@gmail.com
Film screening
19
Jun
21
Farmers Market
Stop by for fresh produce and to shop various vendors, every Sunday into October.
• Where: Village of Babylon Gazebo, 244 W. Main St., Babylon.
• Time: 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
• Contact: longislandfarmers mkts@gmail.com
Nourish
Jun
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
• Where: Magia Pizza, 785 Deer Park Ave., North Babylon
• Time: 6:30 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 983-4283
Jun
23
Grab-and-Go Free Dinners
Every Tuesday, Graband-Go free dinners are available at Cross of Christ Lutheran Church. Drive into the parking lot behind the church and a meal will be hand-delivered to you.
• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport
• Time: 8 p.m.: also June 26 and 28
• Contact: vanderbiltmuseum.org or call (631) 854-5579
Vanderbilt Estate Walking Tour
Visit the Vanderbilt Museum for an intriguing walking tour of the estate with knowledgeable museum educators. Learn about the history of the Eagle’s Nest estate, Warren & Wetmore’s design and exterior architectural details of the 24room Spanish Revival mansion, including the striking ironwork of Samuel Yellin, considered the greatest iron artisan of the early 20th century. Also visit the marine, natural history and cultural artifact collections. $16 $15 seniors/students, $14 children 5-17 (members free). Registration required
• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport
• Time: Noon-1 p.m.
• Contact: vanderbiltmuseum. org or call (631) 854-5579
Kid Zone
Children in grades Pre-K-5 are invited to First Presbyterian Church’s Kid Zone, weekly. Included is dinner, a Bible story, as well as crafts and games.
• Where: 79 E. Main St., Babylon
• Time: 5:30-7 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 587-5838
The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame presents an encore performance of the film “Harry Chapin Cat’s In The Cradle,” a documentary revolving around the famous song by Long Island’s own Harry Chapin. On hand to discuss the film will be Harry’s son Jason Chapin, and the film’s producer S.A. Baron. Food donations are requested for Long Island Cares, the Harry Chapin Regional Food Bank.
• Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: limusichalloffame. org or (631) 689-5888 Jun
22
Babylon SitDown Dinner
Every Monday Nourish Babylon holds a sit-down dinner at Christ Episcopal Church. All are welcome to attend.
• Where: 12 Prospect St., Babylon
• Time: 5-6:30 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 661-5757
Chamber of Commerce Monthly Meeting
The North Babylon and West Babylon Chamber of Commerce hold their monthly general meeting. President Garrett Simulcik Sr. will be stepping down after serving the chamber for 11 years.
• Where: 576 Deer Park Ave., Babylon
• Time: 4-5 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 987-2896
Tunes with Men of Soul
The Town of Babylon’s Summer Concert Series continues. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets for music under the stars.
• Where: Hermann Griem Park, 54 Brown Blvd., Wheatley Heights
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 893-2100
Jun
24
‘The Tempest’ Vanderbilt Museum’s Shakespeare in the Courtyard series returns with the Bard’s dramatic tale, a
Having an event? Items on te 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.
story of shipwreck and magic, It’s performed by the Carriage House Players in the Mansion’s beautiful Spanish Revival courtyard. $20, $15 seniors and students.
World Cup fervor spreads to Long Island
By JEFFREY BESSEN jbessen@liherald.com
Kids ran around as only children can — free and without care — as adults milled around the artificial-turf field and the seats of Kenneth P. LaValle Stadium on the Stony Brook University campus.
I really love the USA, and I really want to support the team
This was the first of a few World Cup watch parties staged by Empire State Development, which promotes business growth, job creation, and greater economic opportunity across New York. Several thousand people came for the soccer last Friday. The first game shown on the stadium screens was Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina, being played in Toronto, as the event began at 3 p.m. Guests had a choice of watching the first game, the second game or both.
At 7 p.m., after those teams played to a 1-1 draw, the second session got underway, and many had come to root for the Unites States Men’s National Team, playing their first game of the quadrennial global tournament, which this year is being hosting across North America, with many of the games in the U.S.
Joe Nola, a Holbrook resident, brought his son Everett, 9, a soccer fan who started playing a few years ago and took to the sport.
“[I’m here] basically for him,” Nola said of his son. “He started getting into soccer and the World Cup, and I started following it a lot more the last couple of years. He’s really excited and so am I, so we’ve been waiting to check out more soccer, and saw this and thought it would be a full opportunity to watch the USA game.”
A travel soccer team player, Everett was a bit shy, but his father said he has an affinity for the “beautiful game.”
“As a family, we’re trying to watch more and learn more about it, so this is, like, a really cool experience,” Nola said, adding of Everett. “He plays goalie. He loves the pressure, for some reason. He drives his mother crazy with the stress. He’s a big fan of [Matt] Freese [the American goalie] and a lot of the goalies that we see internationally.”
Antonella Cortez, 11, from Setauket, who also plays on a travel team, was there to cheer on Team USA.
“I’m here to watch the game,” she said matter-of-factly, adding that playing soccer is fun. Her favorite position? “Anything besides middle and goalie,” she said.
Before the featured match of Paraguay vs. USA, in Los Angeles, the band Third Eye Blind performed a roughly 30-minute set in a driving rainstorm that seemed to end just after they struck
Terryville, Liam Sobritch, of East Northport, and Connor Klinger, from Selden, all wearing USA jerseys, roleplayed interviewer and interviewee, so of course the natural thing was to interview them.
“I really love the USA,” Hernandez said, “and I really want to support the team. I hope they win the World Cup.” His analysis of the first half? “They played great. We need to space out a little more, but we could have this win.
“It was good,” Sobritch said. “We scored three, so maybe [we] space out a little more.”
“We need more spacing,” Klinger agreed, “but [we’re] amazing on the attacking.”
From an own goal by Paraguay in the opening minutes to a score by Gio Reyna in the match’s waning seconds, the U.S. team dominated in a 4-1 win. The next game for the Americans is Friday versus Australia.
Organizing events such as a World Cup Watch Party is not an easy feat.
“This is almost two years in the making,” Dan Gross, Empire State Development’s executive director for New York Special Events, said. “I drew up a plan. It really started with the governor. FIFA controls the tickets,” he added, referring to the World Cup’s governing body. “They control the ticket pricing. The need to make sure people have access.”
Gross and colleagues drew up the plan to hold watch parties across the state. They developed a grant program so that all 10 state regions across New York could have watch parties as well.
“I am very proud to say we are the only state in the nation, from a states perspective, that is truly bringing the World Cup experience to all four corners of the state,” Gross said.
For information on future news related to the World Cup Watch Experience, go to ILOVENY.com/fifa-world-cup/ community-viewing-events.
their final chords.
At halftime, the kids resumed their playful running around, and adults
made their way back and forth to the LaValle Stadium concession stands. Young teens Logan Hernandez, from
Rock group Third Eye Blind performed a roughly 30-minute set before the U.S.-Paraguay game in Los Angeles.
Tim Baker/Herald photos
As the U.S. team scored three first-half goals against Paragua, fans got to cheer often at the Stony Brook World Cup Watch Party.
Elmont resident Al Amin was a particularly colorful supporter of the U.S. team.
LBAB1
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF SUFFOLK PHH MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Plaintiff AGAINST KEVIN GRIFFIN AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF LOUISE GRIFFIN, KERWIN GRIFFIN AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF LOUISE GRIFFIN, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 27, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on July 13, 2026 at 9:00 AM, premises known as 22 Lupidia Street, Amityville, NY 11701. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying being at Amityville, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk, and State of New York, District 0100 Section 163.00 Block 04.00 Lot 009.000. Approximate amount of judgment $270,528.28 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #622699/2024. Richard Lavorata Jr., Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 24-001654 90097 26-318. 6/11, 18, 25, 7/2
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
Rocket Mortgage, LLC f/k/a Quicken Loans, LLC f/k/a Quicken Loans Inc., Plaintiff AGAINST Kerri Barrette; Michael Barrette; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered
April 20, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Babylon Townhall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on July 16, 2026, at 12:30PM, premises known as 42 Clark Street, West Babylon, NY 11704. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Babylon (Unincorporated Area) in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District: 0100 Section: 142.00 Block: 02.00 Lot: 011.000. Approximate amount of judgment $200,024.90 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 617045/2024. Daniele Coysh, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP
Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624
(877) 430-4792
Dated: May 8, 2026
26-317. 6/11, 18, 25, 7/2
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT: SUFFOLK COUNTY. LOAN FUNDER LLC, SERIES 39357, Pltf. vs. NEXTLIFE CAPITAL LLC, et al, Defts. Index #613544/2025. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered May 11, 2026, I will sell at public auction on the front steps of Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, No. Lindenhurst, NY on July 15, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. premises k/a 514 Mount Place, West Babylon, NY a/k/a Section 107.00, Block 01.00, Lot 011.002. Approximate amount of judg-
ment is $490,382.44 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. RANDI E. ALARCON, Referee. DEUTSCH & SCHNEIDER, LLP, Attys. for Pltf., 79-37 Myrtle Ave., Glendale, NY 11385. File No. LF624 - #102988 26-325. 6/11, 18, 25, 7/2
Notice of formation of CGP Realty LLC
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/06/2024
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:
The LLC, 375 W Main Street, Ste 130, Huntington NY 11743 Purpose: any lawful act.
26-311. 6/4, 11, 18, 25, 7/2, 9
Notice of Formation of Gerso Builders & Renovations LLC
Notice is hereby given that Articles of Organization for Gerso Builders & Renovations LLC have been filed with the Secretary of State of the State of New York. Filed with the NYS Department of State on 04/10/2026. Filing Number: 260410004470. DOS ID: 7884311. The LLC is located in Suffolk County, New York.
The purpose of the LLC is to engage in any lawful activity, including construction, renovation, remodeling, and general contracting services. 26-281. 5/14, 21, 28, 6/4, 11, 18
Public Notices
Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA0340-26-113452 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 590 County Road 39, Southampton, NY 11968, County of Suffolk, for on premises consumption at Stress Free Events Inc.
26-322. 6/11, 18
Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA0343-26-113187 for liquor, beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor, beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Hotel under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 11 Stearns Point Road, Shelter Island Heights, NY 11965, County of Suffolk, for on premises consumption at Blue Han Inc.
26-323. 6/11, 18
Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA0340-26-115070 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 110 Front Street, Greenport, NY 11944, County of Suffolk, for on premises consumption at Sankaku BK LLC. 26-324. 6/11, 18
REFEREE'S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
JOLANTA MOGILEWSKA AND TERESA PSZENICZNY, Plaintiff - against - JAN MAKAREWICZ, et al Defendant(s).
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on May 8, 2026. 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 July, 2026 at 2:00 PM. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York. Premises known as 119 Farmers Avenue, Lindenhurst, New York 11757.
(Section: 154.00, Block: 02.00, Lot: 082.000)
Approximate amount of lien $299,276.71 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.
Index No. 606548/2023. Scott H. Siller, Esq., Referee. Stein, Wiener & Roth LLP
Attorney(s) for Plaintiff
1400 Old Country Road, Suite 315 Westbury, NY 11590
Tel. 516/742-1212
Dated: May 18, 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.
26-315 6/11, 18, 25, 7/2
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT: SUFFOLK COUNTY. WILMINGTON
SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, AS OWNER TRUSTEE OF THE RESIDENTIAL CREDIT APPORTUNITIES
TRUST IX-C, Pltf., vs. CRYSTAL Y. DAVIS, et al, Defts. Index #620580/2024. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered April 15, 2026, I will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Hwy., North Lindenhurst, NY on July 13, 2026 at 9:30 a.m., prem. k/a 38 Cedar Road, Amityville, NY 11701 a/k/a District 0100, Section 123.00, Block 02.00, Lot 006.000. Said property located at a point on the Southerly side of Cedar Rd. distant 900.00 ft. Westerly from the corner formed by the intersection of said Southerly side of Cedar Rd. with the Southwesterly side of New Highway; Running thence SE, a distance of 121.08 feet; Thence SW, a distance of 50.01 feet; Thence NW, a distance of 125.65 ft. to the Southerly side of Cedar Road; Thence along the Southerly side of Cedar Rd. NE, a distance of 50.00 ft. to the point or place of beginning. Being and intended to be the same premises as conveyed to the party of the first part herein by Deed recorded in Liber 13071 CP 594. Approx. amt. of judgment is $438,876.23 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms
and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale. RICHARD LAVORATA, JR., Referee. HILL WALLACK LLP, Attys. for Pltf., 261 Madison Avenue, 9th Floor, Ste. 940, New York, NY. File No. 27474-0013#102996
26-316. 6/11, 18, 25, 7/2
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF 63 HOMEWOOD LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 02/17/26. Office Location Suffolk County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process to: 63 Homewood LLC at 3000 Marcus Ave., Ste 1W5, Lake Success, NY 110421009. Reg. Agent: eResidentAgent, Inc.1 Rockefeller Plaza Ste 1204, NY, NY 10020. The principal business address of the LLC is 3000 Marcus Ave., Ste 1W5, Lake Success, NY 110421009. Purpose: any lawful activity.
26-314. 6/4, 11, 18, 25, 7/2, 9
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-19, Plaintiff AGAINST ARIF S. OLCAY A/K/A ARIF OLCAY, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered April 1, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell
at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on June 25, 2026 at 2:00 PM, premises known as 418 52nd St, Lindenhurst, NY 11757. 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, SBL No.: 0100-204.0002.00-056.000. Approximate amount of judgment $293,852.12 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #608405/2019. Scott Siller, Esq., Referee Tromberg, Miller, Morris & Partners, PLLC 39 Broadway, Suite 1840 New York, NY 10006 25-000692 89854
26-295. 5/28, 6/4, 11, 18
Notice of formation of Ziggy’s Mobile Bar LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SS NY) on 03/04/2026 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: Ziggy’s Mobile Bar LLC, 6 Patton Rd, St. James NY 11780 Purpose: any lawful act.
26-298 5/28, 6/4, 11, 18, 25, 7/2
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF SUFFOLK
BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., Plaintiff, AGAINST DEBRA BOTTARI
A/K/A DEBRAJEA J. BOTTARI AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF NEIL BOTTARI; DEMI BOTTARI A/K/A
DIEMI M. BOTTARI AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF NEIL BOTTARI; UNKNOWN HEIRS OF THE ESTATE OF NEIL
BOTTARI, if they be living and if they be dead, the respective heirs-at-law, next-ofkin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said defendant(s) who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or inheritance, any right, title or interest in or to the real property described in the Complaint; 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 June 26, 2026 at 1:00 PM premises known as 317 40th Street, Lindenhurst, NY 11757. 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 the Village of Lindenhurst, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York.
District 0103 Section 001.00, Block 04.00 and Lot 039.000. Approximate amount of judgment $381,726.34 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #618816/2024. Francesco Tini, Esq., Referee, Aldridge Pite, LLPAttorneys for Plaintiff - 40 Marcus Drive, Suite 200, Melville, NY 11747 26-291. 5/28, 6/4, 11, 18
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
SELENE FINANCE, LP, -againstGARY J. GORMAN, 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 December 1, 2025, wherein SELENE FINANCE, LP is the Plaintiff and GARY J. GORMAN, 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 June 25, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 290 33RD STREET, LINDENHURST, NY 11757; and the following tax map identification: 0103-005.0003.00-044.000. ALL THOSE CERTAIN LOTS, PIECES, OR PARCELS OF LAND 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.: 627025/2024. Scott H. Siller, 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.
26-292. 5/28, 6/4, 11, 18
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
U.S. BANK TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, AS SUCCESSOR-ININTEREST TO U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF THE J.P. MORGAN MORTGAGE ACQUISITION TRUST 2006-CH2 ASSET BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-CH2, -againstJAMES CALLENDER, 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 10, 2026, wherein U.S. BANK TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCI-
Public Notices
ATION, AS TRUSTEE, AS SUCCESSOR-IN-INTEREST TO U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF THE J.P. MORGAN MORTGAGE ACQUISITION TRUST 2006-CH2 ASSET BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-CH2 is the Plaintiff and JAMES CALLENDER, 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 June 25, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 19 RAINBOW LANE, AMITYVILLE, NY 11701; and the following tax map identification: 0100-173.0002.00-017.000. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT AMITYVILLE, TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 610401/2025. Scott H. Siller, 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.
26-293. 5/28, 6/4, 11, 18
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR ASSET BACKED FUNDING CORPORATION ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005HE1, -againstMARCELINO ESCOBAR, 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 16, 2026, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR ASSET BACKED FUNDING CORPORATION ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-HE1 is the Plaintiff and MARCELINO ESCOBAR, 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 June 29, 2026 at 12:00PM, premises known as 219 STATE AVENUE, WYANDANCH, NY 11798; and the following tax map identification: 0100-083.0003.00-035.000. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF BABY-
LON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 603207/2020. Ian Sack, 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.
26-303. 5/28, 6/4, 11, 18
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
U.S. Bank National Association as Trustee for NRZ Pass-Through Trust IV, Plaintiff AGAINST Elizabeth Romano a/k/a Elizabeth R. Romano; Fortunato Romano; Rosario Romano; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered April 2, 2019, and Amended February 24, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on July 9, 2026, at 10:00AM, premises known as 35 Lapeer Street, Deer Park, NY 11729. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in Deer Park, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk, State of New York,
District: 0100 Section: 027.00 Block: 02.00 Lot: 074.000. Approximate amount of judgment $363,743.66 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 019256/2013.
Justin M. Block, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792
Dated: May 18, 2026 26-308. 6/4, 11, 18, 25
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF Suffolk, U.S. Bank Trust National Association As Trustee Of BKPL-EG Basket Trust, Plaintiff, vs. Barry Vanderberg, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 4, 2024 and an Order Extending Sale Deadline and Other Relief duly entered on April 28, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on July 9, 2026 at 2:30 p.m., premises known as 1261 America 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 in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0100, Section 141.00, Block 03.00 and Lot 062.001. Approximate amount of judgment is $366,584.49 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index
#624858/2023. Pamela J. Greene, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 170741-6 26-307. 6/4, 11, 18, 25
Notice of formation of 7173 Cleveland LLC
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/16/2025 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: The LLC, 375 W Main Street, Ste 130, Huntington NY 11743
Purpose: any lawful act.
26-310. 6/4, 11, 18, 25, 7/2, 9
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF CKSP LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 5/26/26. Office Location Suffolk County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process to: CKSP LLC at 812 Park Ave #5/6D, NY, NY 10021. Reg. Agent: eResidentAgent, Inc.1 Rockefeller Plaza Ste 1204, NY, NY 10020. The principal business address of the LLC is 812 Park Ave #5/6D, NY, NY 10021. Purpose: any lawful activity.
26-313. 6/4, 11, 18, 25, 7/2, 9.
LBAB3
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF SUFFOLK U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR J.P. MORGAN MORTGAGE TRUST
2007-S3, Plaintiff AGAINST ERICA WESTBROOK, ET AL., Defendant(s)
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered December 8, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on June 30, 2026 at 3:00 PM, premises known as 4 South 21 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 067.000. Approximate amount of judgment $367,939.15 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #610363/2019. Scott Lockwood, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 19-002268 90086
26-294 5/28, 6/4, 11, 18
SUPREME COURT – COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
TARA FRIEL f/k/a TARA MINKEL, Plaintiff against DANIELLE VIVIAN BOBB, et al. Defendants – Pursuant to the Judgment of Partition by Sale duly entered April 23, 2026, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York on June 26, 2026 at 1:00
p.m., premises known as 233 12th Street, West Babylon, NY. All that certain plot, piece, tract 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 130.00, Block 03.00 and Lot 042.000. Property to be sold by public auction to the highest bidder. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index #25-609661. Stephen F. Kiely, Esq., Referee. Taylor, Eldridge & Endres, P.C., (Attorney for Plaintiff) 811 West Jericho Turnpike, Suite 101W, Smithtown, New York 11787 (631) 265-5550, Fax (631) 265-5590 Dated: 05/28/26 26-296. 5/28, 6/4, 11, 18
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF Suffolk, Avail 1 LLC, Plaintiff, vs. Unknown heirs at law of Antoinette Vaccaro, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on May 15, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on July 23, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 43 Cambridge Drive West, Copiague, NY 11726. 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 198.01, Block 01.00 and Lot 043.000. Approximate amount of judgment
is $460,251.98 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #601511/2025.
Billie Jean Miller, Esq., Referee Margolin, Weinreb & Nierer, LLP, 575 Underhill Boulevard, Suite 224, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff 26-327. 6/18, 25, 7/2, 9
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF Suffolk, Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB, As Owner Trustee of the Residential Credit Opportunities Trust VIA, Plaintiff, vs. Ralph A. Santiago a/k/a Ralph Santiago, ET AL., Defendant(s).
Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on December 29, 2025 and an Order Extending the Sale Deadline duly entered on May 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 July 22, 2026 at 1:00 p.m., premises known as 152 Gracie Drive, North Babylon, NY 11703. 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 120.00, Block 02.00 and Lot 007.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $455,388.60 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #604149/2025.
Francesco P. Tini, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New
Public Notices
York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.:201344-1 26-328. 6/18, 25, 7/2, 9
REFEREE'S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE
SUPREME COURT
- COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCAF ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff - against - BRONX RIVER STRATEGIES, LLC, et al Defendant(s).
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on November 3, 2025. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on the 16th day of July, 2026 at 9:30 AM. All that tract or parcel of land, situate in Babylon, County of Suffolk, State of New York.
Premises known as 22 East Booker Avenue, Wyandanch, (Town of Babylon) NY 11798. (DSBL#: 0100-080.0003.00-088.00)
Approximate amount of lien $171,374.71 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.
Index No. 203657/2022. William R. Garbarino, Esq., Referee. Davidson Fink LLP
Attorney(s) for Plaintiff
400 Meridian Centre Blvd, Ste 200 Rochester, NY 14618
Tel. 585/760-8218
Dated: May 26, 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, wear-
ing 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.
26-329. 6/18, 25, 7/2, 9
NOTICE
OF
SALE SUPREME
COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
Deutsche Bank National Trust Company as Trustee for the Holders of New Century Home Equity Loan Trust, Series 2005-A, Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Plaintiff AGAINST
Mark Guerreri; Denise Guerreri; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 25, 2020, and Amended November 27, 2023, and Amended October 2, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 July 20, 2026, at 3:00PM, premises known as 41 Lenox Street, Lindenhurst, NY 11757. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in Lindenhurst, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk, State of New York, District 0103
Section 002.00 Block 03.00 Lot 086.002. Approximate amount of judgment $374,847.57 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of
filed Judgment Index# 610008/2017.
Scott Lockwood, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792
Dated: January 28, 2026
For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832 26-330. 6/18, 24, 7/2, 9
NOTICE OF SALE
Supreme Court County of Suffolk CitiMortgage, Inc., Plaintiff AGAINST Estate of John S. Hovenec a/k/a John S. Hovanec a/k/a Johns S. Hovenec, et al, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on August 22, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Hwy., North Lindenhurst, NY on July 16, 2026 at 12:00 PM premises known as 9 Pratt Street, 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 County of Suffolk, State of New York, SECTION: 220.00, BLOCK: 04.00, LOT: 033.003; District 0100. Approximate amount of judgment is $470,137.38 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 615255/2023. This sale may be subject to the US Dept of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network Real Estate Reporting Rule. In such event,
all purchasers are required to provide the information needed for proper reporting in accordance with the terms of sale.
Danielle Coysh, Referee
FRENKEL LAMBERT WEISMAN & GORDON LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 26-331. 6/18, 24, 7/2, 9
Notice of formation of Connie Alexa Collective, LLC
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SS Y) on 06/02/2026
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: The LLC, 428 N Putnam Ave, Lindenhurst, NY 11757
Purpose: any lawful act.
26-326 - 6/18, 25, 7/2, 9, 16, 23
NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. (LB Field Hockey) Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 02__/_02_/_2026_. NY Office location: Nassau County. SSNY has been designated as an agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: _26 Trask Lane Babylon NY 11561
Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity.
26-332. 6/18, 24, 7/2, 9, 16, 23
Notice of formation of RJV Compliance & Analytics LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 06/10/2026. 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: The LLC, 1525 10th Street, West Babylon, NY 11704. Purpose: any lawful act.
26-336. 6/18, 25, 7/2, 9, 16, 23
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR ACE SECURITIES CORP. HOME EQUITY
LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2006-OP2, -againstTREVOR BUSH AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF LYANNE BUSH, 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 October 28, 2019, wherein HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR ACE SECURITIES CORP. HOME EQUITY
LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2006-OP2 is the Plaintiff and TREVOR BUSH AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF LYANNE BUSH, 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 July 16, 2026 at 1:00PM, premises known as 11 WILLOW STREET, WHEATLEY HEIGHTS, NY 11798; and the following tax map identification: 0100-014.00-01.00062.000.
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
Public Notices
YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 606775/2015. 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. 26-333. 6/18, 25, 7/2, 9
REFEREE'S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiffagainst - NIKOLAOS LIMBERATOS, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on April 23, 2026. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on the 16th day of July, 2026 at 1:00 PM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at Deer Park, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York.
Premises known as 25 Wellington Avenue, Deer Park, NY 11729. (District: 0100, Sec-
tion: 020.00, Block: 03.00, Lot: 027.000)
Approximate amount of lien $663,206.80 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.
Index No. 629648/2023. Danielle Coysh, Esq., Referee. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLP
Attorney(s) for Plaintiff
420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840 New York, NY 10170
Tel. 347/286-7409
Dated: May 5, 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.
26-334. 6/18, 25, 7/2, 9
PUBLIC NOTICE
VILLAGE OF BABYLON
153 W. MAIN
STREET, BABYLON, NY 11702
MUNICIPAL BUILDING
PLANNING BOARD
MEETING AGENDA
June 25, 2026
NEW BUSINESS: Long Island Integrative Health
157 Deer Park Avenue
Site Plan Review
Legend Hair & Nails
235 Deer Park Avenue
Site Plan Review
26-335 6/18
Notice is hereby given that in accordance with Town Law Section 181-b (1) and pursuant to General Municipal Law Section 35, (2a) the fiscal affairs of the West Babylon Fire District in the Town of Babylon, Suffolk County, New York, for the period beginning on January 1, 2025 and ending on December 31, 2025, have been examined by Independent Certified Public Accounting firm of Craig, Fitzsimmons & Meyer, LLP – Smithtown, NY. A copy of their independent audit report has been filed with the New York Office of the State Comptroller where it is available as a public record for inspection by all interested persons. In accordance with Town Law Section 181-b(4) the Board of Fire Commissioners of the West Babylon Fire District in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk, State of New York, has prepared a written corrective action plan in response to the management letter issued as a result of the above referenced independent audit. This corrective action plan is available for inspection by all interested persons at the West Babylon Fire District Office, 126 Arnold Avenue, West Babylon, New York, 11704. 26-337. 6/18
When pets cheer for their family’s favorite team everyone wins
Last week during the exciting NBA championship games, plenty of New York dogs and cats on social media were wearing Knicks jerseys, bandanas, or hats. On that note, have you noticed that if a person is a Mets or Jets fan, his dog is a Mets or Jets fan too?
Granted, the pet goes with the fan flow and doesn’t get to choose his favorite team, but there are benefits to this “sports copycat clothing” for both the family and the pet.
Pets, Pets, Pets...
HOW DRESSING YOUR PET AS A FAN HELPS THE OWNERS:
Seinfeld fans will remember that when Elaine asked her boyfriend Puddy why he painted his face beyond recognition before a football game, he said: “You gotta support the team.” Adding Fido or Whiskers to the cheering squad in your living room extends your support of the team without scaring the wits out of anyone who sees you while driving to the stadium.
The owners are projecting their identity and passions onto their animals. Dressing your dog or cat (if your cat allows clothing) is a fun, visible way to express your loyalty and feel more connected to the game. For many families, dressing pets in team colors is a lighthearted tradition that adds to the festive atmosphere. These owners find it adorable and humorous if their pet is comfortable wearing team colors. And this makes for great photo opportunities and lasting memories.
HOW DRESSING YOUR PET AS A FAN HELPS THE PET:
Every adoption agency looks for homes where the new pet will be considered a member of the family. Putting a favorite jersey onto a dog invites that dog to be part of the “pack” and share in the joy and pathos of watching the game. This strengthens the animal/human bond, especially if the pup is on the sofa with his peeps and partaking of snacks. The time dog spends sharing the game with his special people boosts the dog’s sense of belonging.
In January 2023, PetSmart commissioned OnePoll to conduct a survey of 2,000 American pet parents that revealed four in five claimed their pets to be bigger sports fans than them, out of the 68 percent who identified as sports fans themselves.
We welcome our pets to the TV for the viewing party. 79 percent said they watch sports with their pets and 83 percent even said their furry friends have a favorite sport to watch. Pets appear to be drawn to sports with fast action and running including football (40 percent), soccer (19 percent) and basketball (14 percent). Does this mean the World Cup will be more popular with pets than the Knicks versus the Spurs?
The study also revealed that 78 percent of pet parents think their pet has a favorite athlete, which may be why a majority of them (87 percent) have either named a pet after an athlete or would consider naming a pet after an athlete in the future. Some respondents even shared their sports-inspired names: Messi, Bolt, Fenway, Jackson, Shea and Jeter.
Pet sport-mania even goes into themed items. Two in three pet parents (65 percent)
said they’ve bought their pet a sports team-themed item including pet bandanas (19 percent), collars (19 percent), jerseys (18 percent) and stuffed toys (17 percent), all sporting their favorite teams. Of those who have bought sports teamthemed clothing for their pets, 90 percent will dress their pet in the item when their team is playing.
METS – BARK IN THE PARK: The Mets hosted their first “Bark in the Park” event in 2023. Owners are invited to bring their dogs with them to specific games at Citi Field. When the owners buy a special ticket, there is a pre-game parade and other celebrations before the dogs and families sit in the Coca Cola section of the stadium to watch the game. The next Bark in the Park is Thursday, June 25th. Go to the Theme Games and Heritage Nights on the Mets website for more information.
JOANNE ANDERSON
Hobbs, a Last Hope alumnus Beagle at a Mets Bark in the Park day.
Bowser from Babylon Shelter to Last Hope, dressed in Knicks attire, because he was a winner hours before the last NBA game started.
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
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
PRINTING PRESS OPERATORS
FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is
or
HomesHERALD
To place an ad call 516-569-4000 press 5 • To place an ad call
Beautiful Cape
Cemetery Plots
Pinelawn Memorial Park
2 Cemetery Plots For Sale Plot M Grave 222
Range 26, Block 6, Section 40
$2,500.00 Each
Total Real Value $8,000 615-444-3175 or 615-609-0332 Harrywatkins@yahoo.com
Welcome to this beautifully maintained expanded Cape in the Salisbury section of Westbury in the East Meadow school district. Offering 4-5 bedrooms and a versatile floor plan, this home is perfectly suited for today's lifestyle. The updated kitchen flows seamlessly into the comfortable living spaces, including a spacious living room and formal dining room. A striking double-sided wood-burning fireplace adds warmth and character, creating an inviting atmosphere throughout the main living areas. The first floor offers exceptional flexibility, featuring a bedroom, a den that can easily serve as a fifth bedroom, home office,
A new pool, and the fence around it
Q. I’m putting in a pool, and have to raise the property on the side closest to my property line by about 18 inches. I see that my permit shows I can’t go over 6 feet for the fence. What I want to do is build a wall along the property line using the concrete interlocking blocks that are made for this, and I remember from a previous column you wrote that the wall also needs a permit. Am I going to have problems getting the fence and wall approved, because the company that makes the blocks shows that they go right onto compacted gravel and not the concrete foundation you wrote about? Also, the fence will be 6 feet tall on my side, but at least 7 feet 6 inches on my neighbor’s side. Is that going to be a problem? I want to do this right away, so I can enjoy the pool this summer. Should I just do it and see what an inspector says, if anything?
A. You have given this a lot of thought. I will answer each question as well as possible. The reason for my doubt is that communities have differing opinions, and even inspectors have differing views. The real problem is that until, and sometimes even after, you get a final sign-off, anything that wasn’t documented on the plans is fair game for nullifying the approval, requiring refiling for a new permit.
The block wall can only go on a compacted gravel bed if the ground is stable — not in a flood plain or previously reclaimed land, such as in a neighborhood that was once marshland — and if the gravel bed reaches a 90 percent compaction level, according to manufacturers. This compaction is achieved only by using heavy equipment and extreme force, so if you plan to shovel it in and tamp it down, think twice. Fortunately, the wall movement will be hardly noticeable unless sections sag from the weight of the block and the horizontal shifting of the earth, which mainly occur with the help of water buildup and extremes like the weeks of below-freezing weather a few months ago that most people have already forgotten.
The fence height is another mixed bag of opinions. I’ve had to appear for clients at zoning hearings because of just such circumstances, where there was a problem achieving the 6-foot height and the uneven land dilemma. In other, similar circumstances, another inspector in the same jurisdiction said not to bother and passed the approval without the need to go through the hearing process. I believe that good fences make good neighbors, as Robert Frost wrote. The height issue should only come into play when a neighbor is harmed or potentially harmed by the height, such as if the fence blocks sunlight.
I can never recommend building something without approvals, as a licensed professional, but I am seeing more often that people hate the word “permit.” Good luck!
Readers are encouraged to send questions to
with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
Wanted To Buy
Costume Jewelry Wanted Necklaces, Earrings, Bracelets & Rings. Also Buying Gold & Silver.
$$ CASH PAID $$ 631-500-0792
Long Island / Will Travel
FINDS UNDER $100
Finds Under $100
BABY'S CHANGE TABLE. Gently used, white, 3 drawers. $15. Lido Beach. (516)705-9398
BASKETBALL HOOP REGULATION size, portable $20 text/ call Michele (516) 287-7027
CEDAR RABBIT HUTCH: Formica lined clean-out drawers, Casters, 54" X 24", Solid construction. $35. 516-343-4010
FOOD NETWORK (BRAND) countertop convection oven with rotisserie, never used!!! $95. Call 516 502 5699
GRACO STROLLER, MODES bassinet LX, Click Connect, 3 in one, excellent, instructions included, $60, 516-884-9994.
HANDICAPPED DELUXE SPORT
Hand-Held Portable GPS Unit for Hikers, Hunters, Bikers, etc. New! $50. 516-486-7941
HANDICAPPED FORTUNOFF'S OUT-
DOOR Store Patio Table. 5'x7' Glass Top, Cast Aluminum Frame. Mint. $100 516-486-7941
ROCKING CHAIR WHITE paint, text for picture, $25, 516-884-9994.
WALKER, ALUMINUM LIGHTWEIGHT
ProBasics w/ wheels, two button, original packaging never used $25. 516-781-8313
SERVICES
Appliance Srvc./Repair
APPLIANCE DOCTOR FOR ALL YOUR
APPLIANCE REPAIRS! Prompt, Reasonable, Reliable. All Repairs Guaranteed. Lic/Ins. Serving Community 45 Years. $10 OFF Repairs. Seniors $12 OFF. 516-764-7011
THE APPLIANCE KING: Washers, Dryers, Dishwashers, Microwaves, Stoves, Refrigerators. WE RULE REPAIR ! $10 Off Repair With Ad. Senior Discount. Lic/Ins #201025, Call 516.640.8593
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.
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
AGING ROOF? NEW HOMEOWNER?
STORM DAMAGE? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-877-318-7982
BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-877-271-0003
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
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! 1-877-290-0023 Have zip code of property ready when calling!
Telephone Services
CONSUMER CELLULAR - the same re-
liable, 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 1-877-536-0251
ATTENTION: VIAGRA AND CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 1-877-468-3979
Internet Services
AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET. If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-877-461-0663
Legal Services
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: 1-877-315-0990. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest provider.
TERRORISM IN NONPROFIT facilities is growing. But available security grant money can help protect them. Edldirect
So we set off to meet the new Notre Dame coach . . .
i’ve told this story before, but friends say it always bears retelling. Four years ago this month, a group of us experienced in just a few hours some truly high moments followed by some comedic screwups that still make us shake our heads.
Nassau County Republican Party Chairman Joe Cairo, my law school roommate Tom Curtin and I are Notre Dame graduates, and fanatical followers of Fighting Irish football. When we heard that then new football coach Marcus Freeman would be speaking at a Notre Dame event at the Union League Club in Manhattan, we decided to attend and then go to dinner afterward.
Melissa Zimmerman, a retired Nassau County Police Department detective who was on my security detail when I was in Congress and was still doing security work for me, coordinated the logistics for the evening. We took my car, picked up Cairo at his North Valley Stream home and made it to the city in
plenty of time. Zimmerman parked the car in a garage a few blocks from the Union League, and once there we met up with Curtin, who, as usual, knew someone who knew someone and got us into a pre-event gathering with just a small group of alumni and Freeman, who was friendly and generous with his time. Couldn’t have been a better moment for Notre Dame guys.
AFollowing the larger reception downstairs, we went to Sam’s Place, a terrific Italian restaurant on East 39th Street, where we were joined by my son, Sean, another Notre Dame graduate. The conversation was filled with reminiscing, and expressions of hope that Freeman would restore Notre Dame football’s golden luster.
Despite a sign that said it would be open for a few more hours, the garage were locked tight. We rang the bell. No answer. It started raining harder. We were the only people on the street.
nd what followed forced us to find our way home in the rain in a very sketchy Uber.
The always prepared Curtin produced an umbrella and decided to walk to the NYAC. Zimmerman, seeing her brilliant planning coming undone, was on her phone trying to find an Uber to drive us to North Valley Stream. Minutes went by; no taxicab, no Uber. Cairo, one of the nation’s most powerful political leaders, was standing in the rain, looking down 39th Street.
windshield. Eventually we made it to Cairo’s home, where he obligingly paid the driver and, adding insult to injury, at Zimmerman’s suggestion, gave the man a generous tip. He shook his head as he got out.
Afterward, as we were outside on the street posing for a group photo, Zimmerman couldn’t help congratulating herself on her logistical success. Sean said he would walk to his nearby apartment and said good night. There was a drizzle of rain, but the garage was a block away; nothing to worry about. Curtin, who lives in Jersey, was staying at the New York Athletic Club, so we offered to drop him off.
TAfter several long minutes, a broken-down, filthy-looking, barely operable car pulled up. The driver held a cardboard sign with “Uber” scrawled in magic marker. Speaking with a thick foreign accent, he asked where we were going. North Valley Stream, Zimmerman told him.
“No problem,” he said. We warily got in the car — Zimmerman, the seasoned detective, in the front, and Cairo and I in the back. The driver seemed to have a hard time finding his way out of Manhattan as Zimmerman tried to guide him, and rain splashed against the
Next, Zimmerman tracked down a friend to drive us to my home in Seaford, and then, because her car keys were in my car in the Manhattan parking garage, to drive her to her Bellmore home. Because my wife, Rosemary, knew I’d be coming home late, she had decided to sleep in the back bedroom. When she got up in the morning and didn’t saw my car, she didn’t know whether to call the cops or the emergency room. Moments later, as I recounted the events of the previous evening, she shook her head with the look of a woman thinking, why did I ever marry this guy? Good question.
Later that morning, Zimmerman took an LIRR train to Manhattan to retrieve my car and her keys and complain to the parking garage manager about his misleading closing-time sign. The saga of the Notre Dame football coach and the locked garage was over, but none of us has ever forgotten it.
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
A crisis at a journalistic institution
here are a number of ways to frighten a politician. I could recite a few, but there’s nothing more frightening then telling an elected official that “‘60 Minutes’ wants to talk to you.” For almost 60 years, the show has been more than a television program. It is one of the few that has held powerful corporations, governments and individuals to account for their conduct. Like it or not, “60 Minutes” has been the conscience of the nation.
During its time on our television screens, the show has exposed the tobacco industry’s lies, the failures of the Veterans Administration and the abuses of Wall Street, to name just a few of its in-depth investigations. It has done so week after week, in prime time, watched by millions of Americans who might never have read an investigative newspaper series but would sit down on a Sunday night and absorb a piece of journalism that changed what they knew, and sometimes what the country knew.
That institution, in any meaningful sense, is now gone. What has taken place over the past year is a cautionary tale about what happens when corporate fear meets political intimidation and what is lost when the two converge.
The chain of events that got us here started in April 2025, when Bill Owens resigned at executive producer of “60 Minutes.” He was only the third person to hold that job in 57 years. That was followed by the resignation of CBS President Wendy McMahon.
Why all the drama at ‘60 Minutes’ matters beyond the television industry.
The reason for both departures was that Paramount, the parent company of CBS, was seeking federal approval for its merger with Skydance Media. The Trump administration had leverage over the deal, and it was clear that it was prepared to use it. Then CBS settled a lawsuit with the president with a payment of $16 million. The optics should have been a tipoff of what was yet to come.
What happened next confirmed everyone’s worst fears. Bari Weiss became editor in chief of CBS News, installed by the new owners. While Weiss is a competent writer, she knew nothing about television news. Last
month she fired veteran “60 Minutes” correspondents Sharyn Alfonsi and Cecilia Vega, the first Latina correspondent in the show’s history. That was followed by numerous other layoffs of longtime staffers. It’s worth noting that, months earlier, Weiss pulled a segment off the air that dealt with Trump administration deportees held in a Salvadoran prison. It eventually ran, but that sent another signal.
The final touch in the dismantling of a journalistic institution was the firing of Scott Pelley, who helped make “60 Minutes” what it was. Pelly is the modern-day version of what Walter Cronkite was in his time, and the loss of his voice is a loss for all of us who believe in investigative journalism.
So why does this matter beyond the television industry? Investigative journalism is a mechanism by which citizens of a democracy learn what their government and their corporations are actually doing, as opposed to what they are told they’re doing.
What do weekly newspapers have to do with this type of reporting? Willamette Week, the Village Voice and the Riverdale Press are just a few of the
weeklies that have won Pulitzer Prizes. Consider what happens when a weekly newspaper is sold. If a new owner has different priorities, different allegiances or a fear of generating controversy, it’s the beginning of the end of fair coverage for their readership. When a new owner takes over, the staff remains for a time. The nameplate stays the same, but the readers may sense the change before they can articulate it.
Identity and credibility aren’t assets that appear on a balance sheet, but they are one of the most fragile assets a paper possesses. You might have noticed that the Herald has both Republican Peter King and Democrat Jerry Kremer as columnists. That’s because the owner values all opinions.
The dismantling of “60 Minutes” because of political pressure and corporate self-interest is a message to newsrooms all over America. It is a reminder that the public can’t afford to ignore what takes place before their eyes. We need good and honest journalism, and should be supportive of those who practice it.
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.
Phone: (516) 569-4000
Fax:
eHerald editorial
Start exercising your electoral muscles
very election cycle brings a familiar refrain: “This is the most important election of our lifetime.” The phrase is often overused, but the underlying message remains true. Democracy only works when citizens participate, and that participation begins long before Election Day in November.
For New Yorkers, that opportunity starts with next Tuesday’s primary election, which determines which candidates represent each political party on the ballot in November’s general election.
Too often, primary elections are overlooked. Turnout is routinely far lower than in general elections, even though primaries frequently determine who will ultimately hold office.
In many districts, particularly those dominated by one political party, the primary is effectively the most competitive election voters will see. Yet thousands of eligible voters stay home, leaving crucial decisions in the hands of a small fraction of the electorate.
Voting is more than a civic duty; it is one of the few opportunities citizens have to directly influence the direction of their communities, states and nation. The issues debated during campaigns — taxes, public safety, education, transportation, housing affordability, health care, environmental policy and economic development — impact residents every day. Whether voters are satisfied with current leadership or eager for change, the ballot box remains the most powerful tool available to make their voices heard.
The 2026 election cycle will determine control of the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate, institutions that shape federal policy on everything from spending and taxation to national security and judicial appointments. Midterm elections have historically served as a
letters
How to register to vote and find your polling place
Nassau County: Go to the Nassau County Board of Elections website: nassaucountyny.gov/Departments/BOE.
Suffolk County: Go to the Suffolk County Board of Elections website: suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/BOE.
referendum on the direction of the country, and they often produce significant shifts in political power.
Yet those outcomes are frequently decided by a relatively small number of voters. Nationally, turnout in midterm elections, like 2026, is typically lower than during presidential years. That means individual votes carry even greater weight.
New York voters face an unusual circumstance. Due to a court ruling involving the state’s congressional district maps, several elected officials who only recently won office must once again make their cases to voters. As a result, some communities will see campaigns and races return to the ballot much sooner than expected.
Rather than viewing this as election fatigue, we hope that voters see it as an opportunity. Democracy is strengthened when elected officials remain accountable to the people they represent. Frequent elections require candidates to engage with constituents, explain their records and articulate their plans for the future. Those elections also give voters a chance to evaluate whether promises made during previous campaigns have
Ben Franklin’s wise words? If only.
To the Editor:
Re Jerry Kremer’s column, “Much of what Ben Franklin said is being ignored,” in the June 4-10 issue: To use Franklin to compare the personal qualities of top officials then and now is very appropriate, for it points a way forward.
When Franklin connected the maintenance of the republic to the character of its members, he knew whereof he spoke. He was well studied in history, the qualities of his compatriots were well known to him, and he was fully experienced in the effort that went into the maintenance of “virtue.” His statements that “only a virtuous people are capable of freedom” and about the tendency of corruption to bring on “masters” were deadly serious advice about the kind of citizens necessary to “keep” the republic.
been fulfilled.
Congressional races often receive the most attention, but local and state elections — for Assembly members, village mayors, town council members, and more — can have an equally profound impact on daily life. Decisions made by state lawmakers influence school funding, transportation projects, environmental protections, public health initiatives and countless other issues that directly affect neighborhoods. The officials chosen this year will help shape policies and budgets that residents will live with for years to come.
Unfortunately, many Americans have become increasingly cynical about politics. Some believe their vote doesn’t matter. Others feel frustrated by partisan divisions or disappointed by the pace of change. Those feelings are understandable, but disengagement isn’t the answer. History repeatedly demonstrates that elections can be decided by razor-thin margins. A handful of votes can determine a local race. Every voter who participates increases the legitimacy of the democratic process and helps ensure that election results reflect the will of the broader community.
Next week’s primary should therefore be viewed as more than a procedural step on the path to November. It is the opening chapter of an election season that will help determine who represents us and what priorities those leaders pursue.
Voters should take the time now to learn about the candidates, understand the issues and confirm their registration status. They should familiarize themselves with polling locations, early voting opportunities and absentee ballot options if needed.
The road to November begins next Tuesday. The most important thing voters can do is show up and vote.
Go to liherld.com/subscribe
opinions
The lessons our leaders should take from the LIRR strike
the three-day long Island rail road strike last month did more than disrupt commutes. It highlighted just how interconnected new york City and long Island truly are.
For 72 hours, the effects rippled across the entire metropolitan region. Workers struggled to get to their jobs. Businesses lost customers and productivity. restaurants saw cancellations. Meetings were missed. Supply chains slowed.
State Comptroller Tom Dinapoli estimated that the work stoppage cost as much as $61 million per day in lost economic activity. The losses weren’t confined to any one county or borough. They were shared by all of us, because our regional economy functions as one interconnected system. as president and CeO of the Queens Chamber of Commerce, representing thousands of businesses across Queens, I heard from employers immediately concerned about staffing shortages, delayed deliveries and declining foot traffic. The reason was simple: The workforce connection between long Island and new york City is enormous. according to Census data, around
Letters
Franklin made for himself a chart of seven columns, one for each day of the week, and 13 rows listing the 13 virtues he considered important enough to track. He focused on one per week, and marked his shortfalls. “Tho’ I never arrived at the perfection I had been so ambitious of attaining,” he wrote, “but fell far short of it, yet I was, by the endeavor, a better and happier man than I otherwise should have been if I had not attempted it.”
Most citizens — and very few politicians — would be hard-pressed to even name 13 virtues, confused today with ideology. We know that George Washington had his own written selfguide, and self-improvement was a popular theme at the time, in line with efforts at improving society by improving the people. Citizens today should make their own list of virtues, make an honest attempt to abide by them, and insist on representatives who share the effort. Franklin’s words should be remembered, as should his efforts to attain virtue and thus be a good citizen of our republic.
BrIan Kelly Rockville Centre
240,000 long Island residents commute into new york City for work, while roughly 310,000 new york City residents work in nassau and Suffolk counties.
Queens alone sends around 95,000 workers into nassau County and another 28,000 into Suffolk County every day. Queens residents are among the largest workforce pipelines for long Island employers, particularly in health care, construction, retail, transportation and professional services.
When that flow stops, even briefly, the economic consequences are immediate.
Lexactly why that mindset misses the bigger picture.
ong Island’s economy is deeply dependent on New York City’s, and vice versa.
That reality should also serve as a reminder in a broader political conversation that has become increasingly misguided recently. Too often, some elected officials and commentators have tried to frame long Island and new york City as competitors, as though economic success on one side of the city line somehow comes at the expense of the other side.
It doesn’t.
We saw this dynamic emerge during the pandemic, when some suburban leaders openly encouraged businesses to leave new york City and relocate to long Island. More recently, some politicians have continued to take rhetorical swipes at the city’s struggles as a way to score political points.
But the lIrr strike demonstrated
long Island’s economy is deeply dependent on new york City’s economic strength, just as the city depends on long Island. roughly 150,000 Suffolk County residents work in new york City’s five boroughs, with many commuting into Manhattan and Queens every day. nassau County’s economic ties are even deeper. Meanwhile, businesses throughout the city rely heavily on long Island residents as customers, employees and business partners.
Queens and suburban long Island, in particular, share extraordinarily close economic ties. Queens is home to Kennedy and laGuardia airports, major health care institutions, construction projects and entertainment destinations that employ thousands of long Islanders. long Islanders help staff schools, hospitals, financial firms and transportation systems throughout the city. at the same time, Queens residents support long Island’s retail centers, restaurants, beaches and small businesses. The relationship is reciprocal by necessity.
That’s why the true competition facing our region isn’t between Queens and nassau or between Manhattan and Suffolk. The real competition is coming from states aggressively attracting resi-
Framework by Tim Baker
dents and employers away from new york altogether. Florida. Texas. The Carolinas.
When families leave the metropolitan area because housing costs become unsustainable, long Island and new york City both lose. When businesses relocate operations out of state, the economic pain is shared throughout the downstate region.
Instead of trying to outcompete one another for headlines or short-term political advantage, regional leaders should be working together to address the challenges we all face: affordability, transportation reliability, housing shortages, public safety and economic competitiveness.
The lIrr strike also reinforced another important truth: Infrastructure matters. reliable transportation is the backbone of the downstate economy. Millions of people depend on the seamless movement of workers and consumers throughout the region every day. When that system breaks down, even temporarily, it reminds us how fragile — and how interconnected — our economy really is.
In the future long, Island and new york City will succeed or fail, rise or fall, together. That isn’t political rhetoric. It is an economic reality.
Tom Grech is president and CEO of the Queens Chamber of Commerce and acting chair of the Town of Hempstead Industrial Development Agency and Local Development Corporation.
Diana Frohman with one of her dancing golden retrievers, 5-year-old George — Oceanside
FREE community event focused on health, wellness, and lifestyle
Meet trusted local exhibitors and service providers
Take advantage of on-site health screenings
Enjoy lively entertainment, fitness demonstrations and interactive experiences
Hear from experts during a panel discussion with Q&A
Win raffles, prizes, and giveaways
Snack station for all
*Boxed lunches for first 150 attendees
All designed to help you stay active, informed, and engaged at every stage of life.
AGENDA:
