It was a weekend filled with hometown pride as Amityville Village celebrated the nation’s 250th anniversary with a festive July 3 celebration and its annual July 4 parade.
Residents and visitors gathered to mark the milestone anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, enjoying community events, family traditions and the patriotic spirit that brought neighbors together.
Among those taking part were Massapequa residents Sharon Sieczkowski and Brian Bernhard, who joined friends and family in Amityville to enjoy the parade and celebrate the historic occasion.
See story and photos on Pages 12 & 13.
Soldier Ride in Babylon this Friday
Join the 25-mile cycling event and ride alongside the brave men and women who served our county in support of their journey to recovery on July 17 beginning at 7 a.m. at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. The cost is $100 for adults and $40 for children. The adult price includes an event tee-shirt.
There is still time to register. Go to soldierride.org/Babylon. For more information, visit communityfundraising.woundedwarriorproject. org/events/674.
If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, email communitysr@woundedwarriorproject. org
Amityville officials announce upgrades to parks, waterways
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com
Improving Amityville Village’s parks, playgrounds and natural waterways has been a priority for Village Trustee Adam Ansanelli since before he was elected, and he is now taking the lead on several projects aimed at cleaning, upgrading and enhancing public spaces throughout the Village.
“There has been a lot of community concern about the conditions at Peterkin Park, particularly the sandy surface under and around the playground,” Ansanelli said.
The trustee has been working to combine grant funding, village resources and Department of Public Works support to address the issues at the popular park. The village anticipates receiving funding from the Town of Babylon and has met with contractors to estimate the cost of replacing the existing surface with a safer, non-toxic rubberized material while also making the playground more accessible for residents with disabilities.
“We think we can use the existing equipment that is there, but the playground will be much cleaner, safer and easier to maintain,” Ansanelli said. “The DPW loves the idea of being able to just go in there with
a blower and remove leaves and debris.”
Ansanelli estimates the project will cost between $200,000 and $300,000, with approximately two-thirds of the cost expected to be covered through grants. While no timeline has been finalized, he said he hopes construction could begin in spring and be completed by fall 2027.
The village has also applied for federal, state and local funding to renovate the playground at the beach near the softball field.
In addition to playground improvements, the village continues its efforts to preserve local waterways, including ongoing cleanup projects at Avon Lake and other village lakes. The work includes removing invasive species such as parrotfeather, an aquatic plant native to South America that can spread aggressively in freshwater environments, forming dense mats that block sunlight, interfere with native organisms and disrupt normal water flow.
“This is an ongoing process,” Ansanelli said. “We have done a significant amount of work eliminating it from Avon Lake already, but we are committed to continuing that work CONTINUED
Carolyn James/Herald
Shown at walkway are Past President of the Amityville Chamber of Commerce Jeffrey Erath, Village of Amityville Trustees Adam Ansanelli and Robert Russo, Amityville Mayor Michael O’Neill, former Mayor Dennis Siry, Suffolk County Regional Representative for Governor Kathy Hochul Thalia Olaya, Village Trustees Roger Smith and Owen Brooks, Planning Board Chair Stephen Greenwald, and Sheiva Gourdain, member, Amityville Chamber of Commerce.
Upgrades in Amityville
the engineering firm Nelson & Pope and the Long Island Railroad.
at Avon and throughout all of the village’s natural waterways.”
Another recent improvement was the completion of the walkway connecting Broadway, near Peter’s Diner, to the Long Island Rail Road station on John Street. The new path features a brick walkway, plantings, lighting and a rail, creating a safer and more welcoming route for commuters, pedestrians and cyclists, said officials.
“This pathway is a shining example of what we can achieve when government and private partners align to enhance the community,” said Thalia Olaya, Regional Representative for New York State Governor Kathy Hochul.
Village of Amityville Mayor Michael O’Neill expressed his thanks to all the individuals and organizations who made the project a reality, including former Village of Amityville Mayor Dennis Siry, members of the Village’s Downtown Revitalization Committee,
“Our thanks go out to all those who helped us achieve this vision of a welcoming path for commuters and visitors to the Village,” he said. “We’ve already seen increased use and heard favorable feedback from the community.”
Among those pleased with the new path are local residents as well as businesses owners whose patrons and employees often travel by train to Amityville’s musical halls, restaurants and bars, and other businesses.
“We’re hearing that individuals and families are day-tripping by LIRR from the City or points east to check out all our Friendly Bay Village has to offer,” said Maureen Pecorella, President, Amityville Chamber of Commerce. “This new path puts them right in the middle of our Downtown.”
Joan Donnison, president of the Bay Village Civic Association agreed saying she hopes that as residents become familiar with the walkway it will become even more widely used.
AFA to host free program on healthy eating for seniors
The AFA Barbara Rabinowitz Education & Resource Center will host a free wellness program later this month designed to help Long Island seniors eat healthy while making the most of their grocery budgets.
The program, “Healthy Eating on a Budget,” will be held on Thursday, July 23, at 1 p.m. at the center, 149 Schleigel Blvd. in Amityville. Advance registration is required.
Registered dietitian Christine McGuire, director of clinical operations for the National Enrichment Group, will lead the presentation, offering practical tips on meal planning, smart grocery shopping and preparing nutritious meals while keeping food costs under control.
Participants will learn strategies for stretching grocery dollars without sacrific-
ing nutrition or flavor by making thoughtful food choices and planning meals in advance.
According to the center, good nutrition is an important part of healthy aging. A balanced diet can help older adults maintain strength and energy, support heart and bone health, preserve muscle mass, strengthen the immune system and help manage chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Healthy eating may also contribute to brain health and cognitive wellness.
The July 23 presentation is part of the AFA Barbara Rabinowitz Education & Resource Center’s ongoing free nutrition and wellness series for seniors.
To register, call the center at 631-2234000.
New Harbor Patrol boat honors fallen Bay Constable Richard Brooks
The Town of Babylon officially dedicated its newest Harbor Patrol vessel, naming the 31-foot Safeboat Richard L. Brooks in honor of a longtime Bay Constable and retired New York Police Department lieutenant who was killed in the line of duty in 2004.
Town officials, members of the Brooks family, elected officials and Bay Constables gathered at Tanner Park Marina Tuesday, June 30 for the ceremony recognizing Richard L. Brooks’ decades of public service.
“His memory will stay alive,” Town Supervisor Rich Schaffer said. “He truly loved being on the water, and this dedication is a fitting tribute to a man who gave a lifetime of service — first as a volunteer firefighter in Amityville at just 17 years old, and throughout his career in law enforcement.”
Brooks, a retired NYPD lieutenant, was serving as a Babylon Bay Constable when he was fatally shot in the line of duty in 2004.
His widow, Sylvia Brooks, and other family members attended the dedication. Brooks’ son, Richard Brooks Jr., said the honor would help preserve his father’s legacy.
“My dad loved the Town of Babylon and loved being on the water,” Brooks Jr. said. “He said being a Bay Constable was his retirement job, and he did it for fun. With this boat, his memory stays alive, and that’s really all we can ask for.”
The vessel was purchased through a U.S. Department of Homeland Security Port Security Grant. The nearly $777,000 project received about $588,000 in federal funding, covering roughly 80 percent of the cost.
Public Safety Commissioner Jerry Gigante said the town secured the grant after refining and resubmitting its application following an initial rejection.
“You could get a rejection and walk
away from it, but Jerry and his team stood fast,” Schaffer said. “Getting it on the second try is considered a significant achievement. It takes many municipalities years to secure this type of funding.”
The new Safeboat replaces aging Harbor Patrol vessels that have been in service since 1995 and significantly expands the department’s emergency response capabilities.
The vessel is equipped to transport patients on stretchers using a hydraulic drop-down bow, operate in offshore and severe weather conditions, and carry thermal imaging and radiation detection equipment. It also has emergency medical supplies, seats up to 12 people and is designed for maneuvering in tight waterways.
Gigante said the boat will strengthen the town’s ability to assist neighboring agencies during marine emergencies.
“On the water, resources are thin,” he said. “When there’s a missing person, an overturned boat or another emergency, every municipality works together, and now we can fully participate in those rescues.”
Harbor Master Artie Smith said the vessel’s capabilities also allow Bay Constables to transport patients directly to Good Samaritan University Hospital from the marina when conditions warrant.
Town officials also announced the recent acquisition of a rescue Gator, which will be used on town beaches to
transport injured people by stretcher during beach emergencies.
The dedication comes just days before one of the busiest boating weekends of the summer. Town officials said Bay Constables continue to work with state agencies to promote boating safety and educate residents, including younger boaters, about licensing requirements.
Among those attending the ceremony were Suffolk County Legislator Tom Donnelly, Suffolk County Legislature Minority Leader Jason Richberg, Amityville Mayor Michael O’Neill, representatives from the office of Assemblyman Kwani B. O’Pharrow, Harbor Master Artie Smith and members of the Town of Babylon Bay Constables.
25th Spring Musicale brings timeless classics to Amityville audience
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com
The Amityville Historical Society welcomed residents to its 25th annual Spring Musicale on June 28 at St. Mary’s Church Hall, where they were presented with an afternoon of light classical music and popular selections from a bygone era.
The program featured Joseph Guidice, president of the Amityville Historical Society, on piano and harp; Michael Gutenberg on violin; Igor Balaban on accordion and piano; Edmund Needham on harpsichord; and Joan Costa Arlen on piano. Amityville resident Maura Maynard performed as vocalist. It also featured May Baldwin and Ethel Wilkinson, both Amityville musicians.
Selections included Fantasie Impromptu, Op. 66 and the Ballade No. 3 in A-flat major by Frédéric Chopin. The program also highlighted music associated with Giuseppe Creatore, the famed early 20th-century bandleader whose dramatic concert performances earned
him the nickname “The Great Creatore.”
Creatore, born in Naples in 1871, immigrated to the United States and became one of the country’s most popular concert-band leaders, touring extensively and presenting classical overtures, operatic selections and his own marches to large audiences.
Noted at the event was the connection between Giuseppe Creatore and the Guidice family of Amityville. The original music sheet for a song sung at the event by Maynord originally belonged to Giuseppe Cozza, Guidice’s great grand uncle who was a harpist and worked for Giuseppe Creatore and his band.
“So it seems that my great grand uncle and I were born 100 years apart and are musicians and most importantly, harpists.”
The annual musicale is one of several cultural programs presented by the historical society throughout the year.
For more information on the Historical Society go to: theamityvillehistoricsociety.com or call (631) 598-1486.
Courtesy Babylon Town
Local officials with the family of the late Bay Constable Richrd Brooks at dedication of vessel in his name.
Carolyn James/Herald Musicians pose for photo at conclusion of the performance at St. Mary’s Church in Amityville June 28. Shown are Edmund Needham, Joan Costa Arlen, Joseph Guidice and Maura Maynard.
CRIME WATCH
The following incidents have been reported by the Suffolk County Police Department’s First and Third Precincts and other law enforcement and emergency service units:
VEHICLES VANDALIZED
Amityville: Amityville Police report that shortly after midnight June 26 two men wearing black were observed parking a van next to a blue BMW 3 Services vehicle at Stream Auto Outlet, 89 Sunrise Highway, and proceeded to break a window and remove the vehicle’s steering wheel and air bag. The steering wheel is valued at $1,299; the air bag at $1,623 and police estimate the damage to the window to be approximately $149. They then proceeded, unsuccessfully, to remove the same items from a 2026 Silver BMW parked nearby and fled east on Sunrise Highway. Suffolk County Police Department’s detectives were notified and are investigating.
Driving While Intoxicated/Impaired Jose Canales Bonilla, 34, of 88 S. 24th St., Wyandanch; James McEvoy, 67, 7608 NW 18th Court, Margate, Florida; Gustavo Elias Henriquez Rojas, 28, of West Babylon; Adafih Blackburn 27, of 865 Broadway Ave., Holbrook; Cassandra Brothwell, 34, of 29 Freemont St., Lindenhurst.
PETIT LARCENY
Ashton Flores, 20, of 93 Woodland Ave., Central Islip; Christopher Beltrami, 54, of 10 Paine St., North Lindenhurst; Barbara Washington, 85, of 4 Harrison Ave., North Amityville; Kendry Calderon, 33, of 105 Jefferson Ave., Brentwood; Latoya Lynch, 41, of 18 N. 15th St., Wyandanch; Angelo Toney, 53, 33 Croydon Rd., North Amityville; Brian Szetela, 30, of 825 Carlton Rd., West Babylon; Russell Rosenberg, 58, of 63 Pickwick La., North Babylon; Maurice Saylor, 49, of 181 Parkway Blvd., Wyandanch.
LEAVING SCENE OF ACCIDENT
North Amityville: Someone parked a rental vehicle on Schleigel Boulevard July 2 and when they returned at approximately 8 p.m., they discovered that someone had damaged the vehicle and left the scene. The vehicle was a 2025 Chevrolet.
ARRESTS
ASSAULT
Shaun Engley, 32, of 226 Riviera Pkwy., West Babylon; Chantelle Henderson 28, of 9 North 18th St., Wyandanch; Marsha Anthony 38, of 465. New Highway, North Lindenhurst.
CRIMINAL MISCHIEF
Juan Hernandez, 36, of 3510 Bainbridge Ave., Bronx.
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.
Great South Bay Speaker Series
Join Save the Great South Bay for an interactive discussion that brings together municipal leaders, public works departments, educators, environmental nonprofits, civic associations, businesses and volunteer groups to exchange ideas, discuss common challenges and identify new opportunities for collaboration. This series will take place on
July 24 from 9 to 11 a.m. at The View, 3 Consuelo Place, Oakdale. The speaker series is free to attend but registration is required as seating is limited.
Featuring a moderated panel discussion followed by an open audience conversation. To register, please visit givebutter.com/beautifyli.
Learn more about how we’re helping communities thrive. psegliny.com/revitalization These two moms opened a spa. It had one big,
Mery and Sindy always knew they wanted to open a spa to bring beauty to customers. Little did they know it would have the same effect on the community. And Business First was there. We provided $23,000 in grants to help with much-needed renovations so Mery and Sindy could bring their vision to life.* Now, not only does their spa impact clients in a beautiful way, it gives the community an economic lift as well.
*Incentives, grants, and savings will vary with every project.
Mery Seminario and Sindy Catalan, ISSI Beauty Spa, Port Washington
Answering the call: local graduates choose military service after high school
The Town of Babylon recognized local high school graduates who have chosen military service after graduation during its annual “Call to Serve” ceremony on June 12 at Babylon Town Hall.
Hosted by Town Councilman DuWayne Gregory, a former first lieutenant in the U.S. Army, and New York State Assemblyman Kwani B. O’Pharrow, the ceremony honored students from seven local high schools who will serve in branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Joining the celebration were Town Supervisor Richard Schaffer, Councilmen Antonio Martinez, Anthony Manetta and Terence McSweeney, Town Clerk Gerry Compitello, Receiver of Taxes Jennifer Montiglio, State Sen. Monica Martinez and Suffolk County Legislator Jason Richberg.
The event was organized by the town’s Veterans Advisory Committee, whose members include Justin Berbig, Jackie Gordon, Harry Legette, Juan Leon, William Lindner, Brenda Orejuela, Joseph Regina and Pamela Usher.
Students recognized were:
AMITYVILLE MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL
• Anndy Hernandez Ipina — U.S. Army Babylon Junior-Senior High School
• Elizabeth Boyle — U.S. Navy
• Ryan Gotay — U.S. Marine Corps Reserve
DEER PARK HIGH SCHOOL
• Carissa Arena — Air Force ROTC
• John Capizzi —
Army National Guard
LINDENHURST HIGH SCHOOL
• Manuel E. Coreas — U.S. Marine Corps
• Louis Drago — U.S. Marine Corps
• Miguel Quintero — U.S. Marine Corps
• Juliette Torres — U.S. Navy
NORTH BABYLON HIGH SCHOOL
• Jordan Ausfresser — U.S. Air Force
• Logan Baptist — U.S. Coast Guard
• Ryan Presume — Army National Guard
Meet some of our local scholars...
The following students were recently recognized for academic achievements and graduation at their respective colleges:
•The following students recently graduated from Adelphi University: Sarah Isaac of Amityville; Kevin Hernandez of Amityville; Marleny Duran of Copiague; Delia Exantus of Amityville; Sumaykira Almonte Lopez of Copiague; Leonel Saravia Gonzales of Amityville; Emma Harms of Amityville; Alexia Williams of Amityville; Janet Ho of Amityville; Christina Sanchez of Copiague; Adrenna Taylor of Amityville; Jason Webber of Copiague; and Taliki Barnes of Amityville; Sarah Isaac of Amityville; Kevin Hernandez of Amityville; Marleny Duran of Copiague; Delia Exantus of Amityville; Sumaykira Almonte Lopez of Copiague; Leonel Saravia Gonzales of Amityville; Emma Harms of Amityville; Alexia Williams of Amityville; Janet Ho of Amityville; Christina Sanchez of Copiague; Adrenna Taylor of Amityville; Jason Webber of Copiague; and Taliki Barnes of Amityville. •The following students were recently named to the Dean’s List at SUNY New Paltz: Ariana Baez of Amityville; Erin Holzwarth of Amityville; Caitlin Parker of Amityville; Lucy Sztabinski of Copiague; and Kathryn Wood of Amityville.
•The following students were recently named to the Dean’s List at The University of Alabama: Emily Geiger of Ami-
tyville; Caitlin Mullin of Amityville; and Cole Weinberg of Amityville.
•Nicholas Shiavo of Copiague School District and attending Nassau BOCES Long Island High School for the Arts, LIHSA, was recently inducted into the International Thespian Society.
•The following students attending the University of Hartford were named to the Dean’s List and/or the President’s List: Andrew DiCianni of Copiague, Dean’s List and President’s List and Pearl Hannah of Copiague, Dean’s List.
•The following students were recently named to the Dean’s List at the University at Buffalo: Alexander Arevalo of Amityville; Derek Calcano of Amityville; Casey Meany of Copiague; and Priya Persaud of Amityville.
•PSEG Long Island recently announced its 2026 Safety Sleuth Poster Gallery featuring students at the following schools: Park Avenue Elementary School in Amityville; Susan E. Wiley Elementary School in Copiague; Great Neck Road Elementary School in Copiague; and Deauville Gardens West Elementary School in Copiague.
•The following students were recently named to the Dean’s List at Hofstra University: Jaydyn Davis of Amityville; Joseph Falco of Copiague; Sydni Fonville of Amityville; Martha Gonzalez of
• Reiby Ramirez — U.S. Marine Corps
• Wesley Reyes — U.S. Marine Corps
• Jeremy Ruggiero — U.S. Marine Corps
• Dominik Sobocinski — U.S. Army Reserve
• Joseph Toto — U.S. Marine Corps
• Kendel Wilson — U.S. Army Reserve
WALTER G. O’CONNELL COPIAGUE HIGH SCHOOL
• Marilyn Alas — U.S. Army
• Szymon Kacala — U.S. Marine Corps
WEST BABYLON SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
• Cristian Flores — U.S. Army
• Jordin Maldonado — U.S. Air Force
• Logan McKeon — U.S. Air Force
• Diamond Mircea — U.S. Army
• Aiden Stallworth — U.S. Army
For more information about the Town of Babylon Veterans Advisory Committee, call Councilman Gregory’s office at (631) 957-3127 or email dgregory@townofbabylon.com
Amityville; Elizabeth Gribbon of Amityville; Jordana Jagnarine of Copiague; Kenneth Ordonez of Copiague; Stephanie Pajaro of Amityville; Gabriel Salgado of Copiague; Ava Tucciarone of Amityville; Riad Altenbakji of Copiague; Arleni Alvarez Almonte of Copiague; Kayla Brown of Amityville; Richard Cooper of Amityville; and Delilah Cutillo of Copiague.
•William Fitzmaurice of Amityville was recently named to the Provost’s List at Hofstra University. Fitzmaurice is majoring in film studies and production.
•The following students were recently named to the Dean’s List at SUNY Cortland: Ashley Hernandez of Amityville, Physical Education K-12; Kiara Rosario De La Rosa of Copiague, Adolescence
Education: Spanish; and Vannah Vega of Copiague, Speech & Hearing Science.
•Brandon Lopez-Virella of Amityville was recently named to the Belhaven University Spring 2026 President’s List.
•The following students were recently named to the Dean’s List at Southern New Hampshire University: Abel Tejada of Copiague and Yumaree Theodore of Amityville.
•April Kenny of Amityville, majoring in Psychology at Emmanuel College, was recently named to the Dean’s List.
•Aidan Wild of Amityville, attending Kellenberg Memorial High School, recently earned a certificate in cybersecurity, completing the school’s first Introduction to Cybersecurity course.
Courtesy Steve Gravano/Town of Babylon
Public officials with recent high school graduates who are heading off to military service. The students were recently honored by the Town of Babylon.
AI Generated
Ronald Brian Caples of Amityville, Marine veteran and devoted volunteer
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com
Ronald Brian Caples, a lifelong Amityville resident, U.S. Marine Corps veteran and dedicated volunteer known for his commitment to family, faith and community, died on June 18. He was 87.
Mr. Caples was born and raised in Amityville and graduated from Amityville High School. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving from 1957 to 1960.
“He was a perfect gentleman and a great role model,” his daughter, Darcy Linares said. “He was the kindest and gentlest soul.”
While attending Amityville High School, Mr. Caples played on the school’s football team. It was at a football game that he met his future wife, Mary Ann Haake, who was cheering for the opposing Farmingdale High School team. The couple married in 1961 and made their home in Amityville, where they raised their family.
A longtime parishioner at St. Martin of Tours Roman Catholic Church, Mr. Caples dedicated countless hours to coaching Catholic Youth Organization sports teams and volunteering at church events.
His family said he was a man of faith and family. His grandson, Kyle Linares, remembered him as both a mentor and an inspiration.
“He was my role model,” Kyle said during his military eulogy. “He was loved by everyone.”
Mr. Caples worked for the Operating Engineers of New York from 1962 until his retirement in 2007. After retiring, he and his wife relocated to Riverhead, where he remained active in the Saddle Lake community volunteering at a local soup kitchen.
He was also an avid New York sports fan, cheering for the Giants, Mets, Knicks and Rangers throughout his life.
“He was a New Yorker extraordinaire,” his daughter said.
Mr. Caples was predeceased by his wife, Mary Ann, in October 2022, as well as his sisters, Terry Caples Galke and Diane Schultze.
He is survived by his son, Ronald B. Caples Jr. and his wife, Mary Beth; his daughter, Darcy Linares, and her husband, Paul Mancuso; his grandchildren, Kyle and Evan Linares and Brian and Matthew Caples; his great-grandchildren, Nora Mary Linares and Gabriella Caples Linares; his brother, James Caples, and his wife, Alice; and many nieces and nephews.
Visitation was held June 22 at Powell Funeral Home in Amityville. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated June 23 at St. Martin of Tours Roman Catholic Church. Mr. Caples was buried with military honors at Calverton National Cemetery.
The family requested that memorial donations be made in Mr. Caples’ memory to United Veterans Beacon House, 1715 Union Blvd., Bay Shore, NY 11706, or online at uvbh.org/donate.
Accessible to the Physcially Challenged “The Friendly Church”
Ronald Brian Caples
Fr. Dale W. VanWormer, Rector
Woo Young Choi, Pastor
Health and Beyond Expo kicks off summer for local seniors
By Christie Leigh Babirad cbabirad@liherald.com
Resources for savings and better health, the Long Island Herald recently held their Senior Health and Beyond Expo in Babylon with some attendees stating that the expo has become a tradition for them.
“I’ve been coming here since 2022,” said Marie Pierre. “It’s an outlet to learn more and gather information.
Pierre noted that she even found a lawyer through one of these events and gathers information at the expo that she can share with her mother as well.
The event was held at the Hibernian Hall in Babylon on June 25, the perfect start to the summer season for health-conscious seniors. In addition to resources, the event also had giveaways through a game of Bingo as well as raffle prizes.
“We meet a lot of people and there are a lot of goodies and information at these events,” said Gerald Mathieu.
Host Mae Caime, founder of Amaezing Midlife & Beyond, encouraged guests to visit each and every vendor at the event.
“Make sure today you go and visit all the vendors that are here, that you educate yourself, pick up on the health and wellness, the information here, because all of this is a commitment to making your life easier, better, healthier and more energetic,” said Caime.
She noted that you can’t prevent getting older but feeling good and looking good is an option.
Caime also engaged the seniors in some movement and dancing during the presentation portion of the event.
John Brustad said he learned about the event through friends of his and was looking forward to learning how to keep healthy.
The Stroke and Brain Aneurysm Center of Long Island was the presenting sponsor, with Dr. Daniel Calnan, MD, PhD., representing the Stroke and Brain Aneurysm Center as the keynote speaker.
“We’re really happy to be here — we love doing outreach to teach people about strokes and all the options that we have now for managing strokes and how we can make people better survivors,” said Calnan. “There’s so much we can do now to help people through it and it’s really exciting to show everyone.”
Vendors in addition to The Stroke and Brain Aneurysm Center included East Neck Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Bankers Life, AARP Long Island, PSEG Long Island, All Metro Health Care, JMC Jerusalem Memorial Chapels, Silver Lining Homecare, Metro Physical and Aquatic Therapy, New York Life, Natural Remedies, Gym Guyz, Maurer Foundation, Clear Captions, Fivestar Bath Solutions, Aetna, Edward Jones Investments, Sam -
“get-moving”
martino and Sultan Law Estate Planning.
Besides Calnan, speakers included Cori Mallon, consumer advocate at PSEG Long Island and Marta Kaznowski-Norton, social worker with East Neck Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.
Volunteer Pat Terry of AARP, one of the many vendors at the event, said she attended to provide seniors with what their organization can do to help seniors.
“We’re here because we’re a senior organization that deals with senior citizens and we have a lot of opportunities that we can offer seniors — activities, information and fraud protection,” said Terry.
“AARP is an excellent organization to join because you also get discounts all over the place.”
PSEG offered bags filled with goodies and information, and Nicole Hall, Community Partnership Coordinator with PSEG Long Island, said that they were at the event to help seniors in any way that they can.
“We also want to connect with them because they are one of our largest and most important populations,” said Hall.
After guests perused the variety of vendors and listened to the speakers, they were invited for a free lunch, provided by Bagel Boss of Hewlett.
The next Herald Senior Health and Beyond Expo takes place on July 16 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at St. Mary’s/Maris Stella Knights in Lynbrook.
Photos by Tim Baker/Herald Attendees jump and stretch during
exercises with Mae Caime.
Everyone gathered to listen and learn about health wellness topics.
Dr. Daniel Calnan, of The Stroke & Brain Aneurysm Center of Long Island, prepared to deliver the keynote.
Evan Lanz, RN, Daniel Calnan, MD, PhD, and Nicole Caliendo, RN, represented the presenting sponsor, The Stroke & Brain Aneurysm Center of Long Island.
Stephanie Payne, of Sammartino & Sultan Law, presented their services at their booth.
Debbie Richberg and Marian Hester, with silver sponsor AARP Long Island, provided insight into their services.
Marta Kaznowski-Norton, Nicola Prestano, and AnneMarie Fragkoulis, from silver sponsor East Neck Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, discussed their offerings in personalized therapy, 24/7 Skilled Nursing Support and more.
Marta Kaznowski-Norton, with East Neck Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, participated in the panel discussion.
The team from gold sponsor, PSEG Long Island, shared energy saving programs.
Christopher Demers, MBA, of Aetna, at their booth.
STEPPING OUT
Wild Child
Jazz is in the air
By Karen Bloom
Tilles Jazz Fest is going strong in its third season. The festival returns to the historic LIU Post campus, on Saturday, offering a full day of world-class jazz, family-friendly fun and community celebration across four stages.
Presented in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center, this year’s edition again brings together legendary artists and rising stars. This is an immersive indoor/outdoor experience — from lawn picnics and second line parades during the day to headliner The Buena Vista Orchestra performing in the evening.
The day’s lineup includes the Bobby Sanabria Octet, the Grammy-nominated percussionist blends Afro-Cuban jazz with big band flair; Bluesy Beats and Jazzy Treats with Dan and Claudia Zanes, with a lively, family-friendly set of jazz rhythms; young vocalist Ruby Laks, a fresh, expressive voice in contemporary jazz; along with a swinging Second-Line Parade, led by Hot Jazz All-Stars, including up-and-coming trumpeter Bria Skonberg, when all artists and the audience are invited to join in.
As Tom Dunn, Tilles Center’s executive and artistic director puts it: “This festival captures the spirit of jazz, where iconic voices and emerging artists share the stage. It’s an energizing celebration of artistry, innovation, and community, set in a place that inspires creativity at every turn.”
The LIU Jazz Combo (current LIU students) and Long Island Rising Stars (LIU alumni and regional talent) welcome guests at festival entrances from 12:15 p.m. Members of the LIU Marching Band add energy to the New Orleans-style Second Line parade, closing the daytime festivities at 5:45 p.m.
The young superstars of tomorrow are certainly given their due, alongside the jazz greats. Of course, headliner, The Buena Vista Orchestra, surely deserves the spotlight. The orchestra (sometimes referred to as The Buena Vista Social Orchestra, Orquesta Buena Vista) is acclaimed as the world’s foremost Cuban music repertory ensemble — featuring a revolving lineup. Virtuoso Cuban violinist Rolando Morejón Reyes leads an exciting set of musicians pulled from The Buena Vista Social Club, AfroCuban All Stars, the bands of Celia Cruz, Omara Portuondo, Chucho Valdés, Willie Colón, and others.
To date, The Buena Vista Orchestra and related projects have toured the world and garnered global accolades, making it one of the biggest-selling and best known Cuban music projects in history.
On a more intimate scale are Dan and Claudia
Feel that beat
Zanes, who are delighted to bring what Dan Zanes described as their “community music” to this year’s festival audience.
“It was an exiting call to get,” he says, of the invite. He notes that while they’ve performed at Tilles before, their festival appearance allows the Zanes to show a different side of their musicianship.
• July 18, starting at noon
• Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100
• LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville
This is not a typical tribute or pretend concert act. Wild Child relies on recapturing the original: sound, feel, mood, dynamics and delivery of the Doors music. It’s about the music and its delivery. Wild Child lead singer Dave Brock’s Doors concert tribute debuted with a triple sellout at the Whisky a-Go-Go. Since then the act has been touring and playing at sold out national act venues and festivals around the world. Wild Child became the mold that “tribute bands” aspired to become, as they flooded the market with good and bad impersonations of famous artists. In 2010 Ray Manzarek and Robby Krieger of The Doors, invited Dave to tour with them as their vocalist on their concert engagements: a hug honorl Wild Child performances are praised as the closest thing to a real live Doors experience.
Friday, July 17, 8 p.m. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny. com.
“I come from the folk and rock ‘n roll world, but Claudia, my wife and partner in all this, is a jazz singer. She was performing and touring as a jazz vocalist before I met her. And Tyree Austin who’s also going to be singing with us is also a jazz vocalist. He sings jazz and gospel. So the spirit of jazz is really in what we do.”
partner in performing and
Zanes, a Grammy-winner, occupies a unique place in American music — where sea shanties, English Music hall, play party songs, the spirit of early rock ‘n roll, soul, North American and West Indian folk music collide. For the past 20 years, he has toured the world with his band, Dan Zanes and Friends, sharing 21st century social music with enthusiastic crowds of all ages.
In the 1980s Zanes was a member of The Del Fuegos, the roots rock band that released several albums and toured heavily before spontaneously combusting in 1989. In 1994 he became a father and began trying to create music that he and his daughter could enjoy together as a shared experience — an updated version of the Folkways records he grew up on. In 2000, he released Rocket Ship Beach, which became an immediate hit with families in America. NPR called him “The Gold Standard in kid’s music.”
And while their music does have a certain kid-friendly appeal, Zanes is quick to point out that there’s much more to it than that. The Zanes prefer not to be categorized as “children’s entertainers.”
“Our music is social music. It’s very participatory. We come out of a lot of different folk traditions: North American folk traditions, blues, as well as Haitian folk traditions {influenced by Claudia who is Haitian-American). It’s for all ages, including young folks but also older.
“At our concerts there’s quite a bit of singing along. It’s a social experiment. Even though we’re a modern group we work with ancient traditions and one of those traditions is galvanizing people with song. There’s movement, there’s dancing. Three voices and a 12 string guitar is the foundation of what we do, with addition of trombone, horn and some percussion.”
He describes their sound as “joyful music.”
“These are hard times for a lot of people and music reminds us that there is so much beauty in the world and so much that we get from being with each other. There’s something about singing together that gives all a sense of life’s best possibilities. Behind it all is joy always.”
Guests are encouraged to come with lawn chairs and blankets for a day of relaxed listening and discovery. Youngsters will also enjoy the Kids Zone, with an instrument “petting zoo,” crafts and face painting. When everyone is ready for a bite, check out the food trucks and artisan purveyors with their tempting wares. Or bring your own picnic!
Derek Hough Symphony of Dance: Encore
Following sold-out successes of his previous tours, Derek Hough is back. The Emmy-winning dancerchoreographer-entertainer — known for his dazzling performances on “Dancing With The Stars” — takes his audience on an exhilarating journey through dance with breathtaking choreography, vibrant visuals and his signature stage presence. The high-energy production celebrates the artistry and emotion of movement while showcasing the versatility that has made Hough one of today’s most celebrated performers. Experience a thrilling fusion of dance and music; the fan-favorite dancer explores styles ranging from ballroom, tap, salsa, hip-hop and everything in between.
Sunday, July 19, 8 p.m. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter. org or (516) 299-3100. Tilles Center, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville.
Courtesy Anna Zanes Dan Zanes
Courtesy Tilles Center Bobby Sanabria
Courtesy Andrea Escobar
The Buena Vista Orchestra
Courtesy Mark Mann Claudia Zanes
Your Neighborhood CALENDAR
JUL 16
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
A Celebration of the Mighty Zep
JUL 17
Fridays on the Greene
Come out to Greene Avenue in Amityville Village for their street party. Enjoy music featuring The Time Travellers and order in to have your dinnere delivered from local Amityville
JUL
19
Summer stage
The Village of Amityville hosts Eastline Theater’s staging of “Mansfield Park.” Bring a lawn chair or a blanket for the grass and enjoy theater in a relaxed outdoor setting.
• Where: James A. Caples Memorial Park, S. Bayview Ave., Amityville
• Time: 5 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 598-0363
Concert time
Led Zeppelin fans, rejoice! Get The Led Out returns to the Paramount with “A Celebration of the Mighty Zep,” two electrifying nights of classic rock, running through June 28. From the bombastic and epic, to the folky and mystical, GTLO has captured the essence of Led Zeppelin and brought their music to the concert stage. The Philadelphia-based group consists of six veteran musicians, intent on delivering Led Zeppelin live, like you’ve never heard before! Utilizing the multi-instrumentalists at their disposal, GTLO re-creates songs, in all their depth and glory, with the studio overdubs that Zeppelin themselves never performed. Hailed for their powerful tribute to what many consider the greatest rock band of all time, the band delivers a faithful and highoctane recreation of Zeppelin’s iconic sound. From thunderous anthems to mystical acoustic ballads, GTLO captures the full range of Led Zeppelin’s brilliance — complete with the layered instrumentation and soaring dynamics that the band rarely performed live. With no wigs or phony accents, just pure musical passion. When an album calls for three guitars, GTLO brings three guitarists to the stage — no shortcuts, no gimmicks. GTLO focuses on the legendary band’s early years and dives deep into beloved hits and rare cuts alike. Their approach is reverent and precise, more like a classical concert than a cover band — a true celebration of timeless rock.
restaurants. Tables and chairs are provided, first come/first served.
• Where: Greene Ave., at the corner of Broadway Route 110, Amityville
• Time: 6-10 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 264-6000
Thrift Shop
Stop by Simpson United Methodist Church’s Thrift Shop for some unique finds.
• Where: 30 Locust Ave., Amityville
• Time: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 789-2569
St. Mary’s Thrift Shop
Stop by St. Mary’s Thrift Shop to check out some found treasures. Choose from collectibles, glassware, clothing and other gently used items.
• Where: St. Mary’s, 175 Broadway, Amityville (enter from rear parking lot)
• Time: 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 464-4899
‘The Tempest’ Vanderbilt Museum’s Shakespeare in the Courtyard series presents the Bard’s dramatic tale, a 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.
• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport
• Time: 8 p.m.: also July 19
• Contact: vanderbiltmuseum. org or call (631) 854-5579
JUL
18
Summer tunes
The Town of Babylon summer concert series continues with The Little Mermen. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a night of entertainment for the whole family.
• Where: Tanner Park, 400 Baylawn Ave., Copiague
• Time: 6 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 957-3000
Farmers Market
Stop by for fresh produce and products from various vendors. Open every Saturday until Oct 24.
• Where: First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville
• Time: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 264-0152
• Where: The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington
• Time: 8 p.m.; also July 25
• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com
Summertime sounds
Vanderbilt Museum welcomes Roadhouse Lizard, a Doors tribute band, to the beautiful Spanish Revival mansion courtyard. A passion for detail and authenticity drives Roadhouse Lizard to capture and celebrate the music of The Doors. Chris Ricci as Jim Morrison, leads the band through electrifying sets that include all the greatest hits, as well as enough deep tracks to thrill Doors fans of all ages and every intensity. BYO picnic and chairs. $45, $40 members.
• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport
• Time: Doors open 6 p.m.; 7 p.m. concert
• Contact: vanderbiltmuseum. org or call (631) 854-5579
Church Attic Thrift Shop
Visit First United Methodist Church for their weekly thrift shop.
• Where: First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville.
• Time: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Contact: (631) 264-0152 or email amitychurch1792@ gmail.com
The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame welcomes John Ford. His 50+ year career has traversed psychedelia with Elmer Gantry’s Velvet Opera, progressive folk with the Strawbs, eclectic rock with Hudson-Ford, punky new wave with the Monks, and even 30s-style music hall with High Society. An Englishman in New York since the mid--80s, Ford launched a solo career spotlighting his melodic gifts in power pop and acoustic-based rock settings. For his latest album, the eternally youthful John Ford presents Between a Rock and a Hard Place, a lyrically reflective and musically energetic set that seamlessly integrates covers of Tom Petty’s “Walls” and George Harrison’s “The Rising Sun” with John’s self-penned songs.
• Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook
• Time: 7 p.m.
• Contact: limusichalloffame.org or (631) 689-5888
Nourish
JUL 20
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
Having an event?
Items on the Calendar page are listed free of charge. The Herald welcomes listings of upcoming events, community meetings and items of public interest. All submissions should include date, time and location of the event, cost, and a contact name and phone number. Submissions can be emailed to kbloom@ liherald.com.
Amityville celebrates America’s 250th anniversary
By CAROLYN JAMES cjamesd@liherld.com
Communities across the country came together this year to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with events honoring the nation’s history while highlighting the people and traditions that continue to shape America.
Few celebrations were more vibrant than those held in Amityville Village, where residents gathered over the Fourth of July weekend for festivities filled with community pride, music and patriotism.
The village kicked off its celebration July 3 with its annual street fair, featuring food, entertainment and activities for families. Local organizations, including the Amityville Fire Department, Kiwanis Club, Rotary Club, Bay Village Civic Association and others, joined in the festivities, greeting residents and visitors throughout the evening. Music and dancing filled the streets as neighbors gathered to celebrate together.
“Not even the ‘heat dome’ could keep hundreds of residents from coming out to kick off Amityville’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary,” Mayor Michael O’Neill said. “My favorite part was walking through the crowds and seeing so many families, friends and neighbors enjoying themselves. Best of all, I know many childhood memories were made that will be remembered for years to come.”
The celebration continued the following day with the village’s annual Independence Day parade, which honored the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The parade concluded at the Amityville Fire Department’s main house on West Oak Street, where residents enjoyed a traditional barbecue, children’s rides and additional activities.
“Our annual Fourth of July Parade was another tremendous success, with streets lined by spectators from MacDonald Avenue through the neighborhoods,” O’Neill said.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 13
Carolyn James/Herald
Michael and Ashley Cunha with Naia, Lacey and Joshua wait. For the parade to head down Broadway.
The Jeffersons of Amityville-Kile, Julian, Myai and Jammel with grandfather Ralph wait for the parade to start.
Local youngster, dressed in red, white and blue, joins the parade on his bike.
Marisa and Benjamin Roeder of Copiague with Elizabeth, Frank, Chris and Sammy Bresuco, enjoy dinner on Broadway during the July 3 celebration in Amityville.
Kay O’Sullivan , Liz Smith and Linda Tosi, celebrating the holiday weekend at the parade.
Right: Members of the Amityville Kiwanis Club dressed as the Founding Fathers for the parade.
Patriotic spirit and local tradition brings community together
Broadway drew one of the largest parade crowds in recent memory, with more floats than ever before. O’Neill highlighted the Kiwanis Club’s annual reenactment of the signing of the Declaration of Independence as a centerpiece of the celebration.
For Amityville residents, the anniversary represented more than a historic milestone. It was a reminder of the impor-
tance of civic involvement, volunteerism and the connections built when neighbors come together.
Throughout the year, schools, libraries, museums and community organizations across the country have helped mark the anniversary through educational programs that connect the nation’s history with the stories and traditions of local communities.
Reid Carter of Amityville holds sign up reminding parade goers of the fundamental freedoms ensured by the Declaration of Independence.
Kyle Miller with his wife Christine of Amityville and children Faith, Michael and Grace.
Right: Resident Wendy Canestro with husband Art and grandson Brooks enjoying the July 3 celebration.
Amityville Village Trustee Rob Russo, Mayor Michael O’Neill, Ken Lang, Daniel Jacobsen, former Mayor Dennis Siry, Tim Jacobsen with son Owen, and Gary Governanti at the Amityville Fire Department table at the July 3 celebration.
A Parade of Patriotic Purebred Dogs - “Made in America”
Dogs have been domesticated for thousands of years with most breeds originating outside of North America. However, in the spirit of the 250th birthday of our nation, below is a list of twelve American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized “All American” dog breeds:
Pets, Pets, Pets...
American Foxhound – this tall, rare Foxhound dates to the 1700s in Virginia and Maryland. Many early settlers were lovers of “the chase”. George Washington owned and bred what later became American Foxhounds. Some of the Father of the Foxhound’s foundation stock came from French hounds sent to Washington as gifts by Lafayette.
JOANNE ANDERSON
American Eskimo Dog- these white snowballs are descended from Spitz types, not working sled dogs. During the 19th century. “Eskies” were commonly found with German immigrants. After World War I the breed’s name was changed from “German Spitz” because of anti-German sentiment. Later the dogs were a favorite of traveling circuses, and the first breed ever to walk a tightrope.
American Water Spaniel- is the state dog of Wisconsin. During the mid-1800s the breed was developed in the Great Lake region as an all-around farm and hunting dog that could retrieve from boats. Still quite rare, the majority of American Water Spaniels are not show dogs, but small working spaniels in Wisconsin and surrounding states.
American Staffordshire Terrier- developed in the early 1800s for farmers and settlers as a sturdy dog to do general farm work, hunt
bear and wild boar and guard the homestead. The breed is thought to be a cross between an older, leggier version of the Bulldog (used for bull baiting) and a game terrier breed.
American Hairless Terrieroriginated in Louisiana, in 1972 when a naturally hairless female puppy named Josephine was born in an otherwise standard litter of Rat Terriers. Breeders Edwin and Willie Scott developed her offspring over a decade to establish a healthy, distinct breed that was officially recognized by the AKC in 2016 for the Terrier Group.
Boston Terrier- truly “made in the USA”. Now the state dog of Massachusetts, a Boston Terrier is nicknamed the “American gentleman” because of his tuxedo marking pattern, developed in Boston. The breed is the product of the English Bulldog and a now extinct white English Terrier. By 1889 the new breed had become popular in its native city.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever- the state dog of Maryland is thought to have originated from two puppies that were rescued from an English shipwreck in 1807 near the coast of Maryland. By the late 1800s, these retrievers were known for their ability to return waterfowl shot in chilly Chesapeake Bay. The dense Chessie coat has an oily texture that helps the dog maneuver in extreme weather conditions. This slightly wavy coat sheds profusely in spring and requires daily brushing.
Plott- the state dog of North Carolina, is
so powerful that it can tree a bear. Plotts are also used for raccoon hunting. This breed joins at least five regional varieties of Coonhounds (Black and Tan, Redbone, American English, Bluetick, and Treeing Walker) each fine-tuned for hunting raccoons throughout early Americana.
Australian Shepherds- the name is misleading because the breed as we know it today was developed entirely in the United States to work as herding dogs on western ranches. The Australian connection might come from the breed’s forebears belonging to Basque sheep herders who arrived in the United States from Australia in the 1800s.
Miniature American Shepherd- the breed was developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds that equestrians would prefer running alongside horses, would herd smaller stock such as sheep, and be as adept as Aus-
tralian Shepherds at performance events like agility. The AKC recognized Miniature American Shepherds in Herding Group in 2015.
Cocker Spaniel- over time Cockers bred in the United States became smaller dogs than their English Cocker ancestors. Cockers are now recognized as two separate breedsblack Cockers and any other color besides black Cockers. What we commonly refer to as the “Cocker Spaniel” is known as the “American Cocker Spaniel” outside our 50 states.
Toy Fox Terrier- also known as the “American Toy Fox Terrier” or “Amertoy” was developed in the United States in the 1930s and is directly descended from the Smooth Fox Terrier whose standard dates to 1876. The breed was miniaturized via careful crosses with English Toy Terriers, Chihuahuas, and Italian Greyhounds.
Two American Eskimo Dogs at a show. After WWI, the breed's name was changed from "German Spitz".
A Boston Terrier in an All American kissing booth at the National Dog Show in Philadelphia.
Notice of formation of NAILSXSAH LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 06/01/2026. Office location in SUFFOLK COUNTY. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC 128 Broadway, Amityville, NY 11701. Purpose: any lawful purpose. 26-135. 6/10. 17, 24, 7/1, 8, 15
NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Village of Amityville will hold a Public Hearing in the Court Room of Village Hall, 21 Ireland Place, Amityville, NY at 7:00 P.M. on THURSDAY, July 16th, 2026, to consider the following applications: Application of David Sherland on behalf of Sheyla Hernandez. Applicant seeks a variance to exceed the allowed accessory structure area from 500 square feet to 644 square feet associated with the proposed construction of a 500 square foot pavilion in the rear yard with an existing 144 square foot accessory building pursuant to Section 183-55 of the Village of Amityville Code. Applicant also seeks a special exception to maintain an existing 4-foot solid vinyl fence in the front yard and a 6 foot vinyl fence in the side and rear yards pursuant to Sections 183-139 A. (1) and 183-139 A. (3) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the West
side of Belmont Court approximately 230 feet south of Oak Street in a “Residential B” District known as 8 Belmont Court a/k/a SCTM#101-63-73.2. By Order of the Zoning Board of Appeals, Village of Amityville Catherine Murdock, Clerk/ Treasurer 26-153. 7/15
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT
COUNTY OF Suffolk, U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, not in its Individual Capacity but Solely as Indenture Trustee of CIM Trust 2022NR1, Plaintiff, vs. Dominick Amorese a/k/a Dominick J. Amorese, as Possible Heir of the Estate of Dominick Amorese, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on February 3, 2025 and an Order Extending Sale Deadline and Other Relief duly entered on May 26, 2026, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on August 13, 2026 at 2:00 p.m., premises known as 44 Lafayette Avenue, Amityville, NY 11701. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Incorporated Village of Amityville, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0101, Section 001.00, Block 03.00 and Lot 017.000.
Public Notices — Your right to know
Approximate amount of judgment is $218,138.96 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #612025/2023.
Scott H. Siller, Esq., Referee
Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 222278-2 26-154 7/15 22, 29, 8/5
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
TOWN OF BABYLON - ZONING BOARD OF APPEALSPursuant to Chapter 213, Article II of the Building Zone Ordinance of the Town of Babylon, notice is hereby given that the Town of Babylon on Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a Public Hearing at TOWN BOARD ROOM
(Located in the East Wing) at Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York on THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2026
BEGINNING AT 6:00
P.M.
6:00 p.m.
1. Application #26129 Matthew Schumacher, 330 East Drive, Copiague, NY. Permission to increase total building area from 30% to 51.5% (over by 1,508 sq. ft.); diminish distance to south side lot line 6’ to .4’ (for accessory building); diminish distance to rear lot line from 6’ to 3.4’ (for accessory building); diminish distance to south side lot line from 2’ to 0.1’ (for wood deck). All in connection with legally maintaining a semi in-ground pool, hot tub, an accessory building, and decks. Property located on
the west side of East Drive, 1,933.10’ south of North Drive, Copiague, NY.
SCTM#0100-1842-15
Zoning District: Residence C
6:05 p.m.
2. Application #26131 Elsie Donald and Marie McDonard, 104 Brefni Street, North Amityville, NY. Permission to diminish front yard setback from 30’ to 21.1’. All in connection with a proposed roofed over front porch. Property located on the south side of Brefni Street, 475’ east of Brandon Avenue, North Amityville, NY.
SCTM#0100-1633-21.001
Zoning District: Residence B
6:10 p.m.
3. Application #26133 Car Lax House, LLC, 119 South Bay Drive, Babylon, NY. Permission to diminish rear yard setback from 40’ to 5’-10”; diminish south side yard setback from 12’ to 5’; diminish north side yard setback from 12’ to 8’; diminish total side yards from 30’ to 13’. All in connection with a proposed second floor deck. Property located on the east side of South Bay Drive, 1,400’ south of Lee Avenue, Babylon, NY.
SCTM#0100-2313-80
Zoning District: Residence B 6:15 p.m.
4. Application #26136 Dublin and Bombay LTD, 2137 Deer Park Avenue, Suite A, Deer Park, NY. Permission to diminish lot area from 6,000 sq. ft. to 5,000 sq. ft.; diminish width at front street line from 60’ to 50’; diminish total side yards from 25’ to 20’; diminish rear yard setback from 30’ to 25.3’. All in connection with the pro-
posed construction of a two-story, singlefamily dwelling with an outside basement entrance. Property located on the east side of South 23rd Street, 83’ north of Brooklyn Avenue, Wyandanch, NY.
SCTM#0100-55-234
Zoning District: Residence C
Subject Premises: 21 South 23rd Street, Wyandanch, NY 6:20 p.m.
5. Application #26137 Laurence F. and Lorraine M. Nedell, 109 Deauville Parkway, Lindenhurst, NY. Permission to increase total building area from 30% to 49.87% (over by 795 sq. ft.); diminish north side yard setback from 10’ to 9.1’; diminish total side yards from 25’ to 20’; diminish rear yard setback from 30’ to 25.3’; diminish distance to south side lot line from 2’ to 1.2’ (for shed); diminish distance to rear lot line from 2’ to 0’ (for concrete); diminish distance to north side lot line from 2’ to 0’ (for concrete); diminish distance to south side lot line from 2’ to 0’ (for asphalt). All in connection with a proposed sunroom and to legally maintain a shed, concrete and asphalt patios. Property located on the west side of Deauville Parkway, 180’ south of Maple Avenue, Lindenhurst, NY.
SCTM#0100-2263-44
Zoning District: Residence C 6:25 p.m.
5. Application #26130 Fore and Pour LLC (tenant)/MLO Great South Bay LLC (prop. owner), 600 Madison Avenue, New York, NY. Requesting a special exception permit to operate a place of amusement for a golf simulator. All in
connection with proposed golf stimulator in a bar/restaurant. Property located on the northeast corner of Montauk Highway and Park Avenue, West Babylon, NY.
SCTM#0100-2221-1.002
Zoning District: Business E
Subject Premises: 1017 Montauk Highway, West Babylon, NY
6:30 p.m.
6. Application #26134 Robert Marsh Enterprises, Inc. dba I DJ NOW (tenant)/ The Marsh Group L.L.C. (prop. owner), 1015 Sunrise Highway, North Babylon, NY. Renewal of permission to increase sign height from 6’ to 7’ on west wall; increase sign height from 6’ to 7’ on south wall; increase number of signs per wall from one (1) to two (2) (on south wall); increase number of signs per wall from one (1) to two (2) (on west wall). All in connection with existing wall signs (previously approved for three (3) years, expires March 7, 2027). Property located on the northwest corner of Sunrise Highway and Deer Park Avenue, West Babylon, NY.
SCTM#0100-1532-86.001 & 86.002
Zoning District: Business E
Subject Premises: 1015 Sunrise Highway, North Babylon, NY 6:35 p.m.
7. Application #26122 Hydro Phonics LLC DBA The High Life Dispensary (tenant)/Wellwood Avenue Land Corporation (prop. owner), 1300 Wellwood Avenue, West Babylon, NY. Renewal of a special exception permit to operate a retail cannabis dispensary. All in connection with an existing building (previously approved for
one (1) year, expired December 12, 2025). Property located on the southeast corner of Wellwood Avenue and Patton Avenue, West Babylon, NY.
SCTM#0100-73-11.001 & 2.001
Zoning District: Industry GB ALL PERSONS OR THEIR DULY APPOINTED REPRESENTATIVE MUSTAPPEAR IN PERSON AT THE ABOVE HEARING. ALL CASES WILL BE HEARD IN THE ORDER IN WHICH THEY ARE ADVERTISED, TO BE FOLLOWED BY ADJOURNED CASES. BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
MICHAEL KANE, CHAIRMAN Dated: Babylon Town Hall Lindenhurst, New York July 6, 2026 26-155 7/15
NOTICE OF PUBLIC AND/OR INFORMATIONAL HEARINGS BY THE TOWN OF BABYLON PLANNING BOARD Pursuant to Chapter 186, Site Plan Review, and Chapter 213, Zoning, of the Babylon Town Code and Section 276 of the Town Law, notice is hereby given that the Town of Babylon Planning Board will hold public and/or informational hearings(s) at the Babylon Town Hall, Town Board Room, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York, on the Monday, July 20, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. prevailing time or as soon thereafter as can be heard to consider the following application(s): PUBLIC HEARING/ SITE PLAN REVIEW/MINOR SUB-
DIVISION/CHANGE OF ZONE
JOB# HPLN-85 (2538ABE); 369 Little East Neck Road, Inc.: SCTM# 0100-21203-035, 0100-212-03036, 0100-212-03-033, 0100-212-03-037.001, 0100-212-03-037.002 and 0100-212-03-038: Zone – E-Business and B-Residence to MRMultiple-Residence: SEQRA – Unlisted Action, Coordinated Review: The applicant is proposing to subdivide six (6) lots into two (2). On Lot 1 demolish all structures and rezone to MRMultiple Residence in order to construct a two story, 5,400sf (footprint) building for 10 one-bedroom apartments, along with associated site improvements. On Lot 2, rezone entirely to E-Business and maintain an existing retail shopping center and parking lot modifications, along with associated site improvements.: Property is located the southeast corner of Little East Neck Road and Millard Avenue, West Babylon, Suffolk County, Town of Babylon, New York All interested persons should appear at the above time and place by order of Patrick Halpin, Chairperson of the Planning Board, Town of Babylon, North Lindenhurst, Suffolk County, New York PRINTING INSTRUCTIONS Amityville Record: 07/15/2026 26-156 7/15
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
THURSDAY, JULY 23
•Amityville Rotary Club Meeting: 8 a.m., Brownstones Coffee, 55 Merrick Road, Amityville. For more information, please call President Carolyn Dodd at (631) 374-8712.
•Church Attic Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. For information, call (631) 264-0152 or email amitychurch1792@gmail.com .
•Town of Babylon Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting: 6 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. For more information, please call (631) 957-3012.
FRIDAY, JULY 24
•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631) 789-2569.
•St. Mary’s Thrift Shop: 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., 175 Broadway, Amityville, enter from rear parking lot. Lots of collectibles, glassware, clothing and other gently used items. For information, call (631) 464-4899.
SATURDAY, JULY 25
•Amityville Village Farmers Market: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. The market will be every Saturday until October 24. For more information, call (631) 264-0152.
•Church Attic Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. For information, call (631) 264-0152 or email amitychurch1792@gmail.com .
•St. Mary’s Thrift Shop: 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., 175 Broadway, Amityville, enter from rear parking lot. Lots of collectibles, glassware, clothing and other gently used items. For information, call (631) 464-4899.
SUNDAY, JULY 26
•Simpson United Methodist Church
Public Notices
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the fiscal affairs of the CO-
PIAGUE FIRE DISTRICT for the period beginning January 1, 2025 and ending on December 31, 2025, have been examined by an independent public accountant, R.S. Abrams & Co. LLP and that the report of the external audit by the independent public accountant has been filed in my office where it is available as public record for inspection by all interested persons.
Pursuant to Section 181-b of the Town Law and Section 35 of the
Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631) 789-2569.
TUESDAY, JULY 28
•Town of Babylon Accessory Apartment Review Board Meeting: 6 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. For more information, please call (631) 957-7468.
•Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m., Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9592, 55 Hickory Lane, Levittown. Free weekly, in-person meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631) 332-0552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808. All calls are confidential.
•Church Attic Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. For information, call (631) 264-0152 or email amitychurch1792@gmail.com
WEDNESDAY, JULY 29
•Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m. Free weekly, virtual meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631) 332-0552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808. All calls are confidential.
•Church Attic Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. For information, call (631) 264-0152 or email amitychurch1792@gmail.com
Save the Great South Bay Speaker Series
Join Save the Great South Bay for an interactive discussion that brings together municipal leaders, public works departments, educators, environmental nonprofits, civic associations, businesses and volunteer groups to exchange ideas, discuss common challenges and identify new opportunities for collaboration. This series will take place on July 24 from 9 to 11 a.m. at The View, 3 Consuelo Place, Oakdale.
The speaker series is free to attend
but registration is required as seating is limited.
Featuring a moderated panel discussion followed by an open audience conversation, this forum will explore successful initiatives, strengthen partnerships, coordinate volunteer efforts, share resources and discover ways to amplify the impact of cleanup, beautification and environmental stewardship efforts across Long Island. To register, please visit givebutter. com/beautifyli.
Foundation offers scholarships to descendants of 9/11 victims
As the nation approaches the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, the Barasch & McGarry Charitable Foundation has opened applications for its Sept. 11 Descendants Scholarship Program.
Many Long Island families, first responders and recovery workers continue to be affected by 9/11-related illnesses.
The foundation will award five onetime scholarships of $25,000 each, totaling $125,000, to graduating high school seniors whose families lost a loved one to a 9/11-related illness.
The scholarships are funded through a partnership with Barasch & McGarry, a law firm that represents members of the 9/11 community. To apply go to: baraschfoundation.org/
“While this year’s graduating seniors were not yet born when the attacks occurred, many grew up experiencing the
loss of a parent or loved one to a 9/11-related illness,” Michael Barasch, managing partner of Barasch & McGarry, said in a statement. “Through these five $25,000 scholarships, we hope to honor their resilience, support their educational goals, and invest in the next generation.”
Eligible applicants must be accepted to an accredited college, university, community college, vocational school or trade school. Scholarship funds will be paid directly to the student’s educational institution.
Recipients will be notified by Aug. 3 and recognized at the foundation’s “Giving Back Benefit: Honoring the 25th Remembrance of 9/11” on Sept. 2. The foundation also provides grants to nonprofit organizations that support and advocate for members of the 9/11 community.
Welcome Back Osprey program
General Municipal Law, the governing board of the CO -
PIAGUE FIRE DIS-
TRICT shall prepare a written response and corrective action plan to the report of the external audit prepared by independent public accountant and file any such response/ plan in my office as a public record for inspection by all interested persons not later than ninety (90) days from the date hereof.
DATED: July 9, 2026 Donna Marano District Secretary Copiague Fire District Town of Babylon 26-157. 7/15
Calendar items are printed for nonprofit organizations, as space permits, or when an event, service or information is being sponsored by a profit-making organization without charge to readers. Submit items to us at Richner Communications, attn: Beacon Editor, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530; or email: dconsola@liherald.com at least twothree weeks prior to the publication date in which the item must appear. Sorry, but open-ended requests without the specific dates of the events are not acceptable. While we make every attempt to accommodate each request, we cannot guarantee publication of any items. For more information, call 516-569-4000.
Sunken Meadow State Park will be hosting a family program, “Welcome Back Osprey,” on July 26 from 10:30 a.m. to noon.
Join in a walk to observe the ospreys at their nest platform and discover more about their adaptations.
Meet in Field 3 by the restrooms.
Reservations are required. Please visit Eventbrite.com and search #NatureEdventure.
Sunken Meadow State Park is located at Route 25A and Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park.
For more information, please call (631) 669-1000.
Mid Tide Splash at Sunken Meadow State Park
Sunken Meadow State Park will be hosting a family program, “Mid Tide Splash,” on July 25 from Noon to 1:30 p.m.
The salt marsh is teeming with life— many animals use this unique, protected habitat as a nursery before they venture out to the Sound. Head down to the marsh to seine, collect and identify animals in this brackish water environ-
ment.
Meet in Field 3 by the restrooms. Reservations are required. Please visit Eventbrite.com and search #NatureEdventure.
Sunken Meadow State Park is located at Route 25A and Sunken Meadow Parkway, Kings Park.
For more information, please call (631) 669-1000.
Park Ranger Exam, September 12
County of Suffolk is announcing their civil service exam for those interested in serving as a park ranger. They are seeking highly motivated individuals to take this exam which will be used to fill future vacancies within their park ranger division.
The last filing date is August 5 and the exam will take place on September 12.
To register, please visit apps2.suffolkcountyny.gov/civilservice/efile/. For more information, visit smithtownny.gov/m/faq?cat=37.
DRIVERS WANTED
Full Time and Part Time
Positions Available!
Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience.
Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239
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
HomesHERALD
Waterfront Dream Home
Spectacular 8,100-square-foot stately brick Colonial offering seven bedrooms, seven full and two half baths on 215 feet of prime waterfront property. Beautifully renovated throughout, this exceptional home features a dramatic two-story entry foyer that opens to a second-floor balcony. Walls of windows flood the home with natural light while showcasing magnificent water views. Designed for both comfortable living and elegant entertaining, the home offers an exceptional flow and generously proportioned rooms throughout. The main-level primary suite overlooks the water and features two enormous walk-in closets and a luxurious radiant-heated bath with double vanities, separate water closets, a steam shower, and a Jacuzzi tub. The 2,100-square-foot finished basement, renovated just 10 years ago, includes a theater, recreation room, gym, wine cellar, bonus room, and full bath. The resortstyle backyard features a heated Gunite pool and spa, outdoor kitchen, expansive patio, and a newly renovated 215-foot raised vinyl bulkhead with a private dock for your boat. Additional highlights include a grand circular driveway and an attached three-car garage. Every luxury amenity has been thoughtfully included. Located in the Hewlett-Woodmere School District #14, this remarkable waterfront estate is conveniently close to the LIRR, shopping, and houses of worship. Asking $5,570,000. Call today to arrange your private viewing of this exceptional waterfront residence.
Ronnie Gerber Licensed Real Estate Salesperson C: 516-428-4298 O: 516-623-2776 ronnie.gerber@elliman.com For Everything 5 Towns & More Douglas Elliman / Merrick
Rent Your Apartment
through the Herald and PrimeTime Classified section. Call us for our great *specials. 516-5694000, press 5 for Classified Dept. *(private party only)
What to do about cracking concrete, Part 2
Q. We have large cracks in our concrete driveway and garage floor, and want to make sure they are repaired correctly, since they appear to be recently done, possibly within a year before we purchased the house. In particular, there is a nearly round hole that turned to gravel, kind of, and we want to know why it happened and avoid having it happen again. What can you tell us?
A. As I previously explained, concrete reacts to extreme weather changes, and isn’t as stable as people think. Nature moves mountains, so your driveway was no challenge to the forces of nature. Extreme cold causes concrete to contract — push in on itself — while heat has the effect of stretching rigid concrete to the point of literally ripping apart.
As with any material, water and movement are the most critical factors to work with. You’ll never win over nature. The hole is basically like a zit, a buildup of pressure in a weaker place across the surface. Concrete develops strength as a chemical reaction to the specific combination of materials it is made from. With too much water in the mix, it will be weaker, especially in a particular spot. With not enough water to support the chemical reaction of Portland cement, sand and stone, the concrete will be weak. It’s important to follow the directions on the package(s) to get the correct mix.
Like any successful repair or construction project, analysis and planning are extremely important. You should have a professional take a look at the problem before you repair it, to decide if a repair is even worth it. A short consult more than pays for itself if it turns out you’d be wasting money on something that isn’t worth a quick fix. If that round hole reveals that there’s no steel reinforcement, for example, then the rest of the driveway is on its way to needing more serious work in the near future. If the hole reveals that the mix was too wet or too dry, or was poured in weather that was too cold, or that admixtures were the wrong combination, you’ll just be throwing good money after bad.
or
When I see concrete work being done in extreme cold or excessive heat, as I’m driving by, I make a mental note to double back, over time, to see how the experiment worked or didn’t work. You can only shake your head when you understand the possible outcome. There are concrete repair mixtures that include epoxy adhesives, but, again, follow the directions to the letter if you’re making the less expensive, quick repair.
It was invaluable for me to work with a mason, carpenter and painter during summers off from architecture school. The mason taught me to wet the area before continuing after our lunch break, not adding wet next to dry mortar. The dry area was already curing. The fresh mortar would have the moisture sucked right into the drier surface, weakening both, and the work in general. Good luck!
Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
Monte Leeper
Stuff HERALD
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opinions
America must not abdicate its leadership
Almost 60 years ago, former Secretary of State Dean Acheson wrote a memoir, “Present At the Creation,” which focused on the reality that the United States had to remake the world — or at least Europe — in the years after World War II. That required a rejection and repudiation of the isolationist “America First” policy that had predominated after World War I until Pearl Harbor.
In 1945, Hitler and Nazi Germany had been destroyed, and postwar Germany was in ruins. Though England and France had been victors, the war left them seriously weakened. The British economy was in shambles, and France, which had largely surrendered to Nazi collaborators during the war, was economically damaged and politically unstable.
Most ominously, it soon became apparent that Stalin’s Russia was intent on expanding Soviet rule in Europe, with no regard for treaties or territorial boundaries. Agreements such as Yalta and Potsdam were ignored as Soviet communist rule was imposed on
Poland, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, East Germany and most of Eastern Europe, creating what Winston Churchill so accurately labeled the Iron Curtain.
Fortunately, the United States would not repeat the tragic errors it made after World War I, which led to the inexorable rise of Hitler and World War II.
The first world war had left Germany impoverished, creating fertile ground for Hitler and the growth of Naziism. The U.S. had basically demobilized its armed forces after the “war to end all wars.”
Ultimately, the Soviet empire would implode.
U
kraine needs American support, and in Iran we need NATO’s support.
As Hitler rebuilt the German war machine in the 1930s and Europe appeased Hitler at Munich, the U.S. was slow to respond, and then the America First movement opposed helping Churchill when England was under siege.
In the aftermath of World War II, however, the U.S. assumed the leadership of the free world. Unlike Germany under Hitler, Stalin’s Russian expansion would be halted. America First would be no more. The Marshall Plan was enacted to rebuild West Germany and Western Europe.
To prevent a replay of Munich and appeasement, NATO was created so that an attack on one would be an attack on all. Isolationism was over.
FToday, our world is in need of another act of creation. Russian President Vladimir Putin envisions a new Russian empire, beginning with the invasion of Ukraine. This was the first invasion of one sovereign European nation by another in the almost eight decades since World War II. This continuing attack threatens European stability and, as we should have learned from the two 20th-century conflagrations, America’s security is imperiled. The concept of Fortress America, with oceans protecting us, is outmoded, and potentially suicidal.
While Europe has stepped forward and provided Ukraine with needed weaponry, the Trump administration has cut off arms sales to Ukraine, instead selling them to Europe, which will provide them to Ukraine. This is unnecessarily convoluted, and is causing Ukrainian lives to be lost. The administration somehow sees a moral equivalence between Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, which isn’t that different from equating Hitler with Churchill.
Our lead negotiator, Steve Witcoff, is a real estate guy from New York with
no diplomatic experience, and he hasn’t met with the parties in months. Ukraine is fighting valiantly, and actually beating Russia on the battlefield. But being outnumbered and outgunned, Ukraine can’t survive without American support. Echoes of Munich! Similarly, we will not prevail in our struggle against Iran by announcing that we will never use ground troops or by pretending we are winning when we are stalemated by the Iranians, who have the ability to shut down the Strait of Hormuz. To succeed we will need the support of NATO nations to use their minesweeper expertise to clear the strait. That would have been easier if we had informed NATO of our intention to attack Iran in the first place. Every effort must be made to obtain congressional support, and to level with the American people that no war is easy, especially a war against religious fanatics. And every war has risks. Telling the enemy we won’t ever use ground troops only increases the risk of having to use them.
These are perilous times, and we cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the past. America must show firm leadership. America First cannot be America alone!
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
When did the definition of ‘stop’ change?
ull disclosure: I haven’t always been perfectly compliant when it comes to stop signs. Like many drivers, there have been times when I’ve treated a stop sign more as a slow-down-to-an-almost-stop-andlook sign than what it is. But I’ve never completely disregarded them. Today,however, it seems as though the definition of “stop” has changed entirely. Forget the slow roll-through. More and more drivers of all ages are blowing through stop signs as if they don’t exist. On my routine walks with my dog, we pass at least seven stop signs. If two or three drivers come to a complete stop, that’s a lot. Most don’t even attempt a rolling stop. They accelerate through intersections as if the stop sign is the starting line of a drag race. In nice weather, people are out enjoying our community. Runners are getting in their miles. Families are pushing strollers. Dog owners are walking their
pets. Children are reveling in the freedom of riding their bikes around the neighborhood. Every one of them is put at risk when drivers decide that basic traffic laws don’t apply to them.
DThe statistics are sobering. According to the Federal Highway Administration, roughly one-quarter of all traffic fatalities and half of all traffic injuries occur at intersections. Stop-sign-controlled intersections account for nearly one-third of all intersection crashes, and more than 40 percent of fatal intersection crashes. Every time a driver chooses to ignore a stop sign, they aren’t just breaking a traffic law — they’re increasing the likelihood that a neighbor, a child on a bike, a runner or a member of a family out for a walk will become the next statistic. Almost every one of us uses our roads every day. That’s why basic traffic safety matters. A stop sign is one of the simplest and most effective safety devices ever created. It requires only a few seconds of patience, yet those few seconds can prevent a lifetime of regret. Perhaps equally concerning is the
rivers are now rolling through stop signs routinely — and dangerously.
example we are setting for the next generation. Young children are constantly watching the adults around them. They learn how to treat others, how to behave in public and how to respect rules by observing parents, grandparents, neighbors and other drivers. When children repeatedly see adults ignore stop signs, speed through neighborhoods or otherwise treat traffic laws as inconveniences, they begin to view those behaviors as normal. We shouldn’t be surprised when future drivers develop bad habits if we are teaching those habits today.
I’ve become so aware of this problem that I now make a conscious effort to come to a complete stop at every sign. Ironically, that seems to infuriate some of the drivers behind me. A number of times, I’ve had people swerve around me as I was slowing down, and pass me while I was stopped at a sign. It’s hard to believe people do this when those same impatient drivers race to the next corner, only to find themselves sitting at a red light, watching as everyone else catches up. In the end, they save little or no time, and put themselves and others at unnec-
essary risk.
What is so frustrating is that many of these drivers aren’t thinking about the safety of their neighbors, friends or even their own families. The only thing that seems to matter is getting wherever they’re going a few seconds faster.
The reality is that intersections are among the most dangerous places on our roadways. Many crashes are caused not by bad weather, poor road conditions or vehicle defects, but rather because someone decided that a stop sign was merely a suggestion.
Traffic laws are not arbitrary. Stop signs exist because someone recognized a dangerous condition and took steps to prevent tragedy. Every time we ignore them, we gamble not only with our own safety, but with the lives of everyone around us.
The next time you approach a stop sign, take those extra two seconds. Come to a complete stop. Look both ways. Be patient. Because no appointment, errand, text message or cup of coffee is worth a life.
And remember — the stop sign hasn’t changed since you took driver’s education class. Our behavior has. The good news is that we can change it back.
Michael O’Neill is the mayor of Amityville.
Phone: (516) 569-4000
Fax: (516)
HERALD
SSports still bring us together
ports have always been about more than wins and losses. At their best, they remind us that we have far more in common than the headlines, social media feeds and political arguments would have us believe.
Over the past several weeks, Long Islanders saw two remarkable examples.
The New York Knicks’ championship run transformed Long Island and New York City into one giant community gathering. Bars overflowed with fans wearing blue and orange. Families planned evenings around playoff game tipoffs. Friends who hadn’t watched a game together in years reunited.
Even people who only casually followed basketball found themselves caught up in the excitement. Whether you watched from a crowded sports bar, a watch party or your living room, you became part of something bigger than yourself.
The FIFA World Cup offered a different, but equally meaningful, lesson.
U.S. forward Folarin Balogun’s red card sparked spirited debate among soccer fans. Many questioned the referee’s decision, others defended it, and nearly everyone had an opinion. Yet those conversations, like so many others about the competition, remained focused on the pitch. Fans dissected tactics, coach-
YoUr oPiNioN MatterS
ing decisions and player performances not as ideological opponents, but as people who simply loved the game.
That distinction matters.
In too many corners of public life today, disagreement quickly turns into hostility. Every issue seems destined to become another battle in an endless culture war. Sports remind us that there is another way. You can passionately disagree with someone’s opinion, make your case, and then sit beside that same person to watch the next match.
Even after Belgium eliminated the United States, American supporters found themselves tipping their caps to a talented Belgian squad. There was disappointment, certainly, but also respect. Some fans even joked that Belgium had earned a little good karma along the way for not making Balogun’s controversial reinstatement an issue. That’s the beauty of sports. Defeat doesn’t have to produce bitterness. Sometimes it simply produces appreciation for excellence.
The same spirit carried Knicks fans through every dramatic moment of their championship run. Complete strangers celebrated together after clutch baskets. Subway rides morphed into rolling pep rallies. Neighborhood restaurants and bars became gathering places where age, politics, profession and background mattered far less than
the logo on a jersey.
For a few hours at a time, everyone was simply a fan. Those shared experiences strengthen communities in ways that statistics never can. They create memories between parents and children, lifelong friends and even strangers who may never meet again.
Years from now, many people won’t remember every score or every lineup change. But they will remember where they were, whom they were with and how it felt when an entire room erupted in celebration.
Our communities need more moments like that.
Sports won’t solve our political differences or erase the challenges we face. They shouldn’t have to. Their value lies elsewhere. They remind us that healthy competition doesn’t require contempt, that spirited debate doesn’t have to become personal, and that people with different backgrounds and viewpoints can still cheer, groan and celebrate together.
The Knicks gave New Yorkers a championship to remember. The World Cup is giving the world another reminder of soccer’s unmatched ability to unite people across borders and cultures. Long after the trophies are lifted and the final whistles blow, that is the real victory worth celebrating.
Your opinion Matters
The strength of our community comes from open dialogue. We invite residents to submit letters to the editor on issues affecting our neighborhoods, schools, businesses and local government.
The strength of our community comes from open dialogue. We invite residents to submit letters to the editor on issues affecting our neighborhoods, schools, businesses and local government.
Letters must include your name and contact information for verification. Send them to execeditor@liherald.com.
Letters must include your name and contact information for verification. Send lettters to execeditor@liherald.com
Be heard. Be part of the conversation.
Be heard. Be part of the conversation.
Seeing for ourselves where a legendary writer lived
suffolk County has been the home of many literary giants. The number is unusual for any area. It includes Walt Whitman, James Fenimore Cooper, Kurt Vonnegut, James Jones, Truman Capote, Betty Friedan, Edward Albee, E.L. Doctorow, Joseph Heller, Lanford Wilson, Joe Pintauro, Terence McNally, Colson Whitehead, Peter Matthiessen . . . and John Steinbeck.
And now, you can get an extraordinary insight into Steinbeck.
The house in Sag Harbor in which Steinbeck and his wife, Elaine, lived has been preserved. That’s thanks to donations to the Sag Harbor Partnership, the participation of the Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas (Elaine’s alma mater), $750,000 from New York state, $11.2 million from the Town of Southampton’s Community Preservation Fund, and individual contributions from folks in Sag Harbor. You can go on a free Saturday tour of the 1.8 acres of property overlooking
Sag Harbor Cove, and visit inside the house, too, on Holiday Open House Weekends. My wife and I took the tour on the Memorial Day weekend.
Among the many features of the property is Steinbeck’s charming little six-sided gazebo, his writing studio. He named it, with a sign, Joyous Garde, after Sir Lancelot’s castle in the legend of King Arthur. Steinbeck won the Nobel Prize for literature and the Pulitzer Prize for fiction for his renowned novel “The Grapes of Wrath.” Among his many other books were “East of Eden,” “Of Mice and Men,” “The Pearl,” “The Red Pony,” “The Winter of Our Discontent,” “Tortilla Flat,” Cannery Row” and “Travels with Charley: In Search of America” — which begins in Sag Harbor.
sHe and Elaine lived in the Sag Harbor house from 1955 until his death in 1968. Elaine continued to use the house until she died in 2003.
Our docent for the tour was Lori Raimondo, who is highly knowledgeable about Steinbeck. She told us how Sag Harbor reminded him of Monterey, Calif., on the Pacific Ocean south of San Francisco, where he had earlier lived. Monterey was a working-class waterfront town, like Sag Harbor in those days.
teinbeck wrote in a gazebo that had room for only a small desk and a chair.
Raimondo said that Steinbeck saw the house while looking at another one nearby, but was told it wasn’t for sale. He went over and knocked on the door, anyway, and the couple who owned it said they were just putting it up for sale.
a collection of rifles hung above the fireplace, and she showed us photos of them. In a hallway that led down to a bedroom were many photos, including one of Steinbeck receiving the Nobel Prize. Up what is now a metal circular staircase — which replaced a ladder, Raimondo said — was a loft for the Steinbecks’ two sons, Thomas and John. Outside, we visited a small workshop building that, Raimondo told us, Steinbeck originally thought he could use for writing. But he found there were too many diversions in it. Then it was on to the simple Joyous Garde, which had room for only a small desk and a chair. It was a tranquil place for Steinbeck to write, with a serene view of the waters of Sag Harbor Cove through its windows.
He hung out with friends in the village, which in recent years has featured the John Steinbeck Waterfront Park. In the 1960s, he was a founder and honorary chairman of Sag Harbor’s Old Whaler’s Festival (now known as HarborFest). We lived in Sayville back then, and as a reporter for the Long Island Press, I went to Sag Harbor and interviewed Steinbeck on a festival day.
Framework by Tim Baker
In the house, Steinbeck’s creativity — and humor — were apparent immediately. Raimondo pointed out a mobile hanging in the living room, which, she noted, Steinbeck constructed from the spokes of an umbrella. Adjacent was a cozy kitchen area.
A main feature of the living room is a fireplace made with large stones, especially big in the context of the small house. Originally, Raimondo explained,
To arrange to take the tour, go to steinbeckhouse.org/visit. “There are two options for visiting,” it advises. One is a “regular Saturday visit,” on dates that are listed. The other is holiday open house weekends, Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays on which both the grounds and the home are open. Take the tour. It is immensely worthwhile.
Karl Grossman has been an investigative reporter in a variety of media for more than 50 years. He is a professor of journalism at the State University of New York at Old Westbury.
Thrilling the thousands on chairs and blankets below, the Blue Angels celebrated the nation’s 250th birthday — Jones Beach
