Amityville Herald 02_25_2026

HERALD aMIT yvIllE

Carolyn James/Herald Photos Edward T. Bonahue, President, Suffolk County Community College, Labor Commissionre Roberta Reardon and Mike Fabrizio, director of SCC College’s CNC program.

State labor chief spotlights trades training, child care on visit to LI

By CAROLYN JAMES & CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cjames@liherald.com

As employers across Long Island struggle to fill open positions, New York State Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon visited Suffolk County Community College’s Michael J. Grant Campus in Brentwood on Feb. 17 to spotlight workforce training programs and emphasize the lack of child care access as a critical barrier to employment.

“There are many pathways leading to middle-class, family-sustaining jobs right now, and many of them lead through community college programs,” said Edward T. Bonahue, president of Suffolk County Community College. “—an apprenticeship, an industry-recognized certification or license, or a two-year degree. Eventually, many of them can also lead to bachelor’s degrees as well, and I appre-

ciate Commissioner Reardon helping to shine a light on these opportunities.”

During her visit, Reardon toured the college’s Advanced Manufacturing Training Center and met with students and educators. She also highlighted several workforce development and child care initiatives included in Gov. Kathy Hochul’s proposed budget.

Long Island faces ongoing shortages in skilled trades, including electrical work, heating and air conditioning, plumbing and advanced manufacturing. Nassau and Suffolk community colleges offer workforce training in those areas, as well as in health care. The Long Island Educational Opportunity Center, sponsored by SUNY Farmingdale, provides tuition-free vocational training to regional residents.

Officials said the programs help create a pipeline of locally trained workers who can re-

ASD wrestlers advance to states

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

The Amityville Memorial High School wrestlers will head to Albany this weekend to compete for a New York State championship at MVP Arena.

Senior Christian Maldonado and sophomore Erick Mejia Zavala earned spots in the state tournament after strong showings in league and county competition.

“I am very excited about it,” Maldonado said.

“This is something that I have been working toward all summer,” Mejia Zavala added. “It is something I am very proud of.”

On Feb. 7, the Amityville Union Free School District hosted the wrestling league’s preliminary playoff competition.

Maldonado captured first place in the 144-pound weight class, while Mejia Zavala took first in the 285-pound division.

The pair continued their success over Valentine’s Day weekend at the Suffolk County Championships at Stony Brook University. Maldonado placed third in the 144-pound weight class, and Mejia Zavala earned second in the 285-pound division, qualifying both for the state championships.

“The growth we’ve seen from Christian and Erick is a true testament to their drive and determination,” said head coach Dan Manley. “Their success is no accident; they’ve stayed goaloriented year-round, putting in

the quiet work that leads to loud results. They’ve earned every bit of this opportunity, yet they remain far from satisfied. We couldn’t be prouder of the way they represent our program and our community.”

Mejia Zavala, 15, is the son of Julie Mejias and Jose Pineba. He said he stays in shape through weightlifting and running.

Maldonado, 17, the son of Maricela Herrara and Yuri Pineda, also runs to maintain conditioning and focuses on diet and recovery massage. When asked about free time, both wrestlers said there is lit-

Gardiner Foundation grant to support new book on LI shipwrecks

Publication of historian and journalist Bill Bleyer’s upcoming eighth book will be supported by a grant from the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation.

The Riverhead-based foundation has awarded a $3,000 grant toward publication of “Shipwrecks of Long Island,” a forthcoming book expected to be released by the History Press in late fall or early 2027. The book will examine notable shipwrecks off Long Island’s shores from colonial times through the 1960s, including their historical, economic and cultural impact.

The grant was awarded to the Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society, Bleyer’s nonprofit partner on the application. The funding will allow the society and the author to purchase copies of the book for resale to support their work. The society operates the Fire Island Lighthouse, originally constructed in 1858, for the National Park Service.

The society and Bleyer previously partnered on a successful Gardiner Foundation grant that supported publication of his 2017 book, “Fire Island Lighthouse: Long Island’s Welcoming Beacon.”

“The Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society is excited to support another book written by author Bill Bleyer,” FILPS Execu -

American Velvet

Amity Ales

Amityville Chamber of Commerce

Amityville Herald

Amityville Men’s Shop

Amityville Rotary

Amityville Wellness

Artisan Wine & Liquor

Autotopia

B&B Fish & Clam

Bella Maison

Brasserie

Brazico

Brownstones

BVCA Board

Campbell’s Boxing

tive Director Jonathon Gaare said. “With the completion of our lighthouses in 1826 and 1858, the number of ships that wrecked on our shores drastically reduced. We are excited to learn the stories Bill will share with us.”

Bleyer said the foundation’s support helps ensure that local history continues to be documented and shared.

“It’s great that the foundation is willing to underwrite publication of books on Long Island history because it’s not a venture that tends to be profitable, considering the time involved,” he said. “But these books are important for understanding the region’s past.”

Kathryn M. Curran, executive director of the Gardiner Foundation, said the project highlights how maritime history connects communities across the Island.

“Long Island’s maritime history touches each community in its own way,” Curran said. “Exploring these stories expands this heritage across our shores and offers insight into our local culture.”

Bleyer spent 33 years as a staff writer at Newsday, specializing in history and maritime issues. Since retiring in 2014, he has written books on topics including the Culper Spy Ring, Sagamore Hill, the Civil War on Long Island, and

the 1840 wreck of the steamboat Lexington.

The Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation, established in 1987, supports the study of Long Island history and its role in the American experience. The Gardiner family has owned Gardiner’s Island since 1639 under a royal grant from King Charles I of England. For more information on the Gardiner Foundation, go to gardinerfoundation.org

** With a sincere Thank You to this year’s Auction donors:

Combs Bait & Tackle

Doris Reynolds

FlipFlopoGram

Glow Nail Spa

Great Wall of China

Hair Cottage

Hal & Lorraine Schad

Heavenly Flowers

Henk Guitjens

House of Barbery

Jackie Pottgen

Joan Donnison

Joan & Harry Kaplan

Kathy Ward

Kevin & Liz Smith

Kiwanis Club of Amityville

LG Salon

Mesita

Carney’s

Mayor Mike O’Neill

Michele & Charlie Camilleri

Nail Image Inc.

New Cozy Nails

New Sunshine Nail Salon

New York Beanery

Park Avenue Grill

Peter’s Diner

Powell Funeral Home

Raimo’s

Salon Fringe

Salumi

Sal’s Meat Market

Small Craft Brewery

Smith design & Gifts

Snug Harbor Jewelers

Snug Harbor Liquors

Sophia’s

South Shore Optometrics

Stop & Shop

Suzanne Carl

The Better Bagel

The Grand Lobby

The New Swan Cleaners

The One Sushi & Asian Bistro

The Pescitelli Family

The Spa Haus

Trustee Adam Ansanelli

Trustee Roger Smith

Trustee Owen Brooks & Margaret Brooks

Vittorio’s

Wrapping It Up

Special Thanks and appreciation to Margaret and Meghan Brooks for offering their musical talents. ** Sincere apologies if we erroneously omitted a donor’s name S i l Thkd i ti t M

BVCA honors Rev. Randolph Jon Geminder for years of service

Longtime pastor retires after 50 years

By CAROLYN JAMES

cjames@liherld.com

The Bay Village Civic Association honored the Rev. Randolph Jon Geminder for his decades of service to Amityville Village during its annual luncheon on Feb. 1 at the Unqua Corinthian Yacht Club.

Civic leaders, elected officials and residents gathered to recognize Geminder’s longtime presence in the community.

“Father Geminder has been a presence in our community for five decades at dedications and ceremonies throughout the Vil-

lage,” said BVCA President Joan Donnison in introducing him. “We are very happy to be able to recognize your many years of devotion, commitment and service to the community.”

Geminder arrived in Amityville five decades ago to serve as pastor of St. Mary’s Church. Although he recently retired from that role, he continues to serve as chaplain to the Amityville Fire Department and Police Department.

“Father Geminder has always been a wise word and an open heart to everyone,” said Suffolk County Legislator Jason Richberg.

Brown won’t seek reelection

By CAROLYN JAMES

cjames@liherld.com

Babylon-area voters will see changes on the ballot this November after New York State Assemblyman Keith Brown announced he will not seek reelection in the 12th Assembly District, which includes portions of the Town of Babylon, including Deer Park.

Brown’s decision followed an earlier announcement by State Sen. Alexis Weik that she would step down from her 8th Senate District seat, which covers parts of West Islip, Babylon Village, Lindenhurst and surrounding communities.

At a Suffolk County Republican convention on Friday, party members voted to support Islip Town Councilwoman DawnMarie Kuhn as their nominee to run for Brown’s Assembly seat. Assemblyman Jarett Gandolfo is seeking the Republican nomination for Weik’s Senate seat.

“After three terms representing the people of the 12th Assembly District, I have decided not to seek reelection for a fourth term,” said Brown in his announcement. “This decision was a difficult one, but it is time. I am proud of the work we have done these past five years, and I really loved being your assemblyman!”

Kuhn, 37, is a lifelong Islip Town resident and serves on the Islip Town Board. She has a background in education and small business and previously served as chief of staff to Suffolk County Legislator Anthony Piccirillo. She also owns and operates a campaign consulting firm, Right View Strategies.

When she was elected to the Town Board, Kuhn said she would focus on holding the line on taxes and improving government efficiency to protect what she described as the suburban way of life.

Gandolfo was elected to the Assembly in November 2020. Before that, he served as chief of staff to former Assemblyman and now Congressman Andrew Garbarino. Gandolfo has said he aims to advance policies that strengthen the local economy, support businesses and law enforcement, and repeal the state’s bail reform laws.

He earned a degree in criminal justice from SUNY Albany and later received a Master of Public Administration degree and a certificate in city management from Villanova University. He and his wife, Natalia, live in Sayville.

“You have been a stalwart in this community.”

Congratulations and well wishes were also offered by Mayor Michael O’Neill, State Assemblyman Kwan O’Pharrow and other local leaders.

Geminder attended the luncheon with his wife, Donna. He noted that he has been blessed with 56 years of marriage and the opportunity to serve the people of Amityville. He also reflected on the challenges of stepping away from a role he loved. The Diocese requires priests to retire at age 70.

Babylon Town Republican Chairman Joe Barone said party leaders are already organizing to support Republican candidates this fall.

“We will be working hard to ensure our candidates get the best support possible from the party and are victorious in November,” Barone said.

Meanwhile Democrats are in the process of gathering petitions to get their candidates on the ballot in November.

“Being blessed with good health and active, it was not an easy thing for me to do,” he said. Quoting Charles de Gaulle, he added, “The graveyards are full of indispensable men.”

The couple now lives in Bay Shore, not far from the former site of a diocesan convent where Geminder made a retreat before coming to Amityville decades ago.

“So, in a sense, my life has gone full circle,” he said. “I love you and I love this Village — and never, ever be reticent to call me.”

CRIME WATCH

The following incidents have been reported by the Suffolk County and Amityville Village police departments and other law enforcement and emergency service units:

GRAND LARCENY

Copiague: One person distracted a Target employee while a second went behind the counter and stole several cell phones, police said. That incident occurred Feb. 10 at approximately 8 p..

• Three vacuums were stolen from the Target department store on Sunrise Highway on Feb. 6. A store representative reported the theft shortly after 2 p.m.

Leaving the Scene of an Accident

North Amityville: The rear quarter panel of a vehicle parked on Campbell Street was damaged during the early morning hours of Feb. 2. The driver of the striking vehicle fled without providing information, police said.

PETIT LARCENY

North Amityville: Personal items, including cologne, were stolen from a

vehicle parked on Booker Boulevard on Feb. 12, police said.

Copiague: A person entered Dollar General, 3395 Great Neck Road, shortly before 6 p.m. on Feb. 7 and left with what police described as a large quantity of paper towels.

• Someone damaged the driver’s-side window of a U.S. Postal Service truck and removed mail. The incident was reported Feb. 10 at 3:15 p.m.

ARRESTS

Driving While Intoxicated/Impaired: Cristian Arias, 50, of 209 W. 2nd St., Deer Park.

Petit Larceny: Julio Torres, 40, of 1522 Emkay St., North Bay Shore; Kyle Tiringer, 54, of 150 Gibbs Road, Central Islip; Geraldine Casayo, 37, of 19 Strum St., Brentwood.

Burglary: Xavier Tyner Johnson, 26, of 33 Gray Ave., Gordon Heights.

Grand Larceny: Geovanni Hernandez, 27, of 49 Pineview Blvd., Central Islip.

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.

Self Help/Crisis Hotlines

Bereavement Support Group

Bereavement Support Group hosted by Our Lady of Grace Church, 666 Albin Ave., West Babylon, every Saturday through November 8, from 9:30 to 11 a.m. For more information, contact John Laszewski 631 874-0210.

Food Pantry/Clothing Closet

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

Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation

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

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

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

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

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

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

• LI Crisis Center: 516-679-1111

• Response Crisis Center: 631-7517500

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

NY labor chief touts trades training, child care on visit to LI

main in their communities.

Lonnie Patton, owner of Belle Aire Heating and Cooling in Bohemia, described the need for qualified workers in his industry.

“It’s tremendously important for students to be learning trades,” he said. “It has been tremendously difficult finding qualified people and the trades are going to be significant in the next four years. Not that they aren’t now, but we have such a shortage of good hands and good workers, it’s unbelievable.”

Will Testa, owner of Will Testa Remodeling Inc. in Copiague, echoed that concern.

“There are not enough people coming in to the workforce who are trained properly,” he said. “The problem is everyone forces their kids to go to college, which may be good for some, but it’s not good for everyone, and trade schools are important, it’s the infrastructure of our society. We need plumbers. We need electricians. We need framers and carpenters, and everything in between.”

Justin Ostrick of Medford, a student enrolled in Suffolk County Community College’s workforce program, said he “took a leap of faith,” when he decided to pursue training in the trades.

“I was in teaching but I had never done anything with my hands and decided I want to try it,” he said. “I am enjoying the work and developing my skills and look forward to getting a job in the trades by doing the best I can.”

“I was delighted that the Commissioner was able to visit,” said Bonahue. “All the programs in our Advanced Manufacturing Training Center—including the welding and CNC machining programs we highlighted today—incorporate hands-on training that provides students with the skills they need to move directly to full-time jobs.”

What’s important, he added, is that these trainings are designed hard-in-hand with local employers, who have a critical need for these technicians to grow their businesses.

While workforce training programs are expanding, Reardon said employment growth also depends on addressing Long Island’s child care shortage.

Reardon, co-chair of the state’s Child Care Task Force, said increasing access

to affordable care is essential to strengthening the labor force. The task force, relaunched in 2023, is developing strategies aimed at universal, high-quality, affordable child care statewide.

“The governor has spoken a lot about this issue and made it clear that she wants every New Yorker to be able to work at their fullest capacity and desire,” Reardon said. “And that means that we have a responsibility to help them have accessible, affordable childcare to do that.”

“Governor Hochul has been focused on this for a long time, certainly since she became governor,’ said Reardon. “And affordability is really the tent pole of her agenda.”

Child care costs on Long Island are among the highest in the country, second only to Massachusetts. Families typically spend between $15,000 and $24,000 annually per child for full-time, center-based care, according to the Health and Welfare Council of Long Island.

“When you couple that with the high costs of everything else, housing, food, utilities, childcare is a tremendous stress on families,” Reardon noted.

Prachi Shah, owner of Kiddie Academy in Hicksville, said providers also face financial pressures.

“We are grateful for Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon’s visit to the Brentwood Campus and her attention to matters affecting our industry, especially on Long Island,” Shah said.

The Kiddie Academy of Hicksville and Bethpage are independently owned and operated franchise locations that serve 350 children and employ 75 early childhood educators.

“It is essential to keep this discussion going and highlight ways the state can better support providers on Long Island,” Shah said.

State officials said addressing the child care crisis will require a comprehensive approach, including professionalizing the workforce, supporting centers that want to open or expand, and addressing the region’s high cost of living, including housing and transportation.

Reardon said the long-term goal is universal child care — a public system that provides accessible, high-quality, free or low-cost early education and care for children from birth to age 5.

“I am a big proponent of universal childcare,” said Reardon, and so is the

ASD wrestlers advance to states

tle of it between academics and training.

“This is a tremendous honor for these two student-athletes and a powerful reflection of their hard work and the strength of the Amityville wrestling pro-

gram,” said Juan Leon, president of the Amityville Booster Club. “The Booster Club remains fully committed to supporting them as their journey continues in upstate New York.”

Governor. “Children in childcare are more verbal. They often are much better at math and reading than children who do not go to daycare, which helps set them up for the rest of their lives. So, it’s a

societal good, that’s why universal childcare for me is as important as our public schools.”

Copiague nipped by Whitman in playoffs

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

In an intense Suffolk Class AAA boys’ basketball playoff matchup between two evenly matched teams, No. 4 Walt Whitman pulled away late to edge fifth-seeded Copiague, 71-63, Feb. 19.

Both teams entered the postseason clash with nearly identical resumes. Copiague stood at 15-5 under head coach Steve Rebholz, while Whitman carried a 16-4 mark. With so little separating them on paper, the game unfolded exactly as expected which was tight, physical, and emotional.

“We didn’t play our best basketball,” Rebholz said. “We were sloppy, rushed things on some offensive possessions, and had too many defensive breakdowns.”

Copiague came out sharp in the opening quarter, however, setting the tone defensively and finding timely offense from its senior leaders. Senior guard King Moore poured in 17 points on the night, while senior forward Martely Lemoine added 15. Freshman guard Ethan Abello capped his breakout season with 14 points, showing poise well beyond his years. The Eagles edged Whitman 18-16 at the end of the first quarter.

The Wildcats responded in the second behind a surge from Jason Thompson, who delivered a game high 31 points. Jack Bell provided a crucial secondary scoring punch with 23 points, helping Whitman build momentum before halftime. Jeremy Shaikh chipped in 10 points, and Andrew Steenson added 6 as Whitman closed the half on a strong run to take a 39-34 lead into the break.

Despite trailing, Copiague refused to fold. Senior forward Frandi Fernandez contributed eight points, while role players Tristan Jean and Devin Barnes added four and three points respectively. Aidan Boswell chipped in two points as the Eagles continued to battle. By the end of the third quarter, Whitman’s lead remained slim at 53-50, setting up a tense final eight minutes.

In the fourth quarter, Whitman’s composure proved decisive. Thompson and Bell controlled the tempo, attacking the basket and converting key possessions down the stretch. Whitman outlasted Copiague, sealing the playoff victory.

“I feel horrible for our seniors,” Rebholz said. “They were a group that

HERALD SPORTS North Babylon upset in playoff opener

Erik Lee/Herald

Senior King Moore had 17 points for the Eagles in their hard-fought 71-63 playoff loss at Walt Whitman.

came together and bonded. When it ends, it ends so abruptly and it’s painful.”

Still, he praised his team’s fight. “Our guys are so resilient,” he added. “That showed tonight as well. They never gave up. I love these kids and always will.”

For Copiague, the loss marks the end of a memorable season defined by senior leadership and resilience. For Whitman, the win keeps its title hopes alive as it advances, battle-tested and confident after surviving a gritty showdown.

The Wildcats will travel to face No. 1 seed William Floyd in the semifinals on Thursday at 5 p.m.

Whitman head coach Chris Morra acknowledged how evenly matched the teams were entering the contest. “Two teams with identical records going at it,” he said. “We knew it was going to be close and we’re just happy to come out on top. You have to play 32 minutes. You have to play hard the entire time and that’s what our guys did.”

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

In a Suffolk Class AAA boys’ basketball playoff battle that lived up to every expectation, North Babylon and Commack went down to the wire before visiting Commack escaped with a thrilling 54-52 victory Feb. 19.

The matchup featured two familiar foes who knew each other well after battling through the regular season twice. From the opening tip, it was clear neither side would back down. The first quarter ended deadlocked at 14-14, setting the tone for a tightly contested game filled with momentum swings and clutch performances.

“It was a great, competitive game,” Commack head coach Peter Smith said. “Our guys played really hard and executed for 32 minutes. Our defense was excellent today.”

North Babylon (17-4) leaned on its balanced attack early. Junior guard Sean Lanier led the way with 16 points, attacking the rim and knocking down key shots to keep the Bulldogs within striking distance. Senior Cameron Serrano added 12 points, while senior captain Jake Walsh chipped in with 8. Junior forward Lance Petit contributed 6 points, and junior William Wilfolk added 3. Senior captain Aidan Walsh and Niko Martin each finished with a basket.

Despite the Bulldogs’ firepower, Commack (13-8) answered every run. The Cougars took a slim 26-24 lead into halftime after a back and forth second quarter. Ryan Curcio provided a major spark with 14 points, keeping Commack’s offense steady. Daniel Onuogu and Ty Wilheim each scored six, while Jordan Hamilton added four and Jake Demato finished with two.

The third quarter brought more drama. North Babylon surged late in the period to take a 42-40 lead heading into the fourth, fueled by Lanier’s aggressive play and Serrano’s timely shooting. With the season hanging in the balance, both teams elevated their intensity on both ends of the floor.

In the fourth, Commack found its difference-maker in Johnny Ehlers. The senior poured in 19 points overall, but it was his fourth-quarter performance that proved decisive.

“We needed some big buckets in the fourth quarter,” Smith said. “He stepped up and got hot at the right time.”

Ehlers delivered exactly when the Cougars needed him most, knocking down key shots to reclaim the lead. Commack’s defense also tightened in the closing minutes, forcing crucial stops and capitalizing on a few North

Erik Lee/Herald Lance Petit and the Bulldogs won 17 games this season but fell to Commack in the Class AAA playoffs.

Babylon mistakes down the stretch.

With the score tied late, Commack made just enough plays to secure the victory, ending North Babylon’s impressive season in heartbreaking fashion.

Bulldogs head coach Rakeem Vanterpool praised his team’s preparation and resilience despite the outcome.

“We were prepared and ready to go,” he said. “We just didn’t get the job done. The better team won today. It just came down to a couple of mistakes at the end of the day. That’s what the playoffs are all about.”

Vanterpool also reflected on his senior leaders and the adversity they faced.

“There’s going to be adversity you face in life,” he said. “They faced that today but for my seniors, they’re going to go on to bigger and better things so hopefully they learn from this.”

Smith acknowledged how difficult it is to defeat a team multiple times in one season.

“It’s so difficult to beat a team three times in the same season because you get to know each other so well,” he said. “Last time we played them, it came down to one possession and it was the same thing today.”

Former resident and AMHS grad Thomas Cheviot, at 66

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

Thomas Cheviot grew up in a large family with a sister and four brothers and was the youngest of the group — a role that helped shape his determination and competitive spirit.

“And that included seconds at the dinner table,” his brother Jim said with a

laugh.

That same drive carried over into athletics. Tom played baseball, football and basketball at Amityville Memorial High School, where he developed the competitive edge that would stay with him throughout his life.

The former Amityville resident and high school graduate died in his sleep on

Feb. 2, 2026. He was 66.

He attended St. Martin of Tours elementary school before graduating from Amityville Memorial High School. He went on to study at Tulane University in New Orleans, where he played college football and competed in the Liberty Bowl against Penn State.

After college, Tom built a successful career in Manhattan working in freight sales. In later years he faced health challenges, but continued to enjoy concerts, sporting events and visits to the Long Island beaches he loved as a young man.

His family described him as a man of deep faith. As a child, he served as an altar boy at St. Martin of Tours R.C. Church, a foundation his brother Jim said carried him through life.

Tom is survived by his children, Thomas and Annmarie, known as Annie, whom family members described as the light of his life; his sister, Cathy Trommer of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida; and his brothers Peter of Sayville, Paul of Fallbrook, California, and Jim of Brick, New Jersey.

He was predeceased by his parents, Marie and Jack Cheviot, and his brother

ATTENTION FAMILIES AND FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Family members and funeral directors may submit obituary notices to us at: Amityville Record Herald, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530 or may call us at 516-569-4000 ext. 329

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HERALD NEIGHBORS

Copiague’s Alex Yake wins first Grammy

Engineered Best Progressive R&B album

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD

Passion, commitment and deep gratitude for his hometown have shaped the journey of Alex Yake, a Copiague native who, at 33, has earned his first Grammy Award.

Yake, a 2010 graduate of Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School, was recognized for his work as an engineer on the album “Bloom,” which won Best Progressive R&B Album at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards on Feb. 1. The win also marked the first Grammy for singer Durand Bernarr.

Speaking with the Herald, Yake described the award as the culmination of years of work in what he calls a “niche” role in the music industry — one that does not often receive public recognition. How does it feel to win your first Grammy?

It’s a dream come true. I think this moment and this recognition was so important because I didn’t go into it expecting anything. I went in and did my job. I always try to provide people with an amazing experience. It’s also nice that I’ve been sought after for my talent and my skills in LA, the same way that I was in Copiague. Being from Copiague, or somewhere on Long Island, you might think like you live in this small town on Long Island and wonder— Are people going to even like me? It’s nice to know that my training paid off. Where I’m from you really must be proficient. You really have to like what you’re doing. I guess finding out that when you do a good job and you train hard at something, it doesn’t matter where you are or how thick the competition is, you can shine through if you really sit on your foundation and hard work. I feel like everything I’ve gotten is due to hard work. I don’t have any family members who work in music or entertainment. How did you discover this passion of yours for audio engineering and producing?

I always wanted to be a singer or performer, and then I found out that people make the music who aren’t necessarily the artist. In middle school, I wanted to make beats. I just kept with it. I learned that it’s the engineer who makes the music sound good. I had a setup since 2008, since I was in 10th or 11th grade, a recording setup. I was making little beats on my com-

cbabirad@liherld.com

puter, and then I bought a mic, an interface, speakers, and the cable to plug the keyboard into my computer so I could use it to write music. Would you say that in many ways you were self-taught?

Yes. I mean, obviously the music part of it. The theory part of it—I came up through the music program in Copiague, which was everything. That was my whole life. I was in the marching band. Then, I taught the drum line for 7 years. I always knew I was going to pursue music. I interned at RCA Records in the city. I worked in the A&R department. I worked at studios on the island as well and did live gigs. I helped with the plays at the high schools, setups for events and the audio for large events. And now you work at Create Music Group in Los Angeles, where you worked with Durand Bernarr for this Grammy-winning album. What was it like working with Bernarr?

He is just so talented. In a time where music is heavily processed, this guy doesn’t sing a bad note. We just get to be in there really making music. It’s not like we’re sitting there trying to clean up a really bad take because this is the best we got. He’s a very talented, accurate singer. Many artists rely heavy on punching in and doing it line by line, and Durand doesn’t need that. He can just sing. He doesn’t need the pitch correction, the auto-tune and all of that. He’s very talented. Durand is also a big advocate of independent artists. He worked with Earth, Wind and Fire when he was younger, so he has been in the industry for a long time, and just never got recognized until now. It’s an inspiration to anyone who is trying to do something on their own. He didn’t lean into anyone big to back him. He built this himself, and it’s a big deal.

It sounds like you and Bernarr are similar in that you simply put the work and passion into what you love. What advice would you give to anyone who is aspiring to something they’ve always dreamed of becoming?

Yes. At the end of the day, I do something that doesn’t often get recognized on the highest level. I’m not the artist. I guess if you have a vision for something, go follow

it, go achieve it. It doesn’t matter where you’re from, what you do, or who you know—if you work hard and really master your craft, you can be part of anything that’s a big deal. Never give up on what you think you could do. If you really want to do it, it will happen, but you have to want it. That’s how it works in life— if you want something in life, go get it! Commit and believe in yourself. It’s also strategic— you have to meet people too. You have to get out and meet people but also be good at your skillset. It’s that combination.

Everyone has been proud of this accomplishment.. How does that feel?

My parents who live in Florida now, Linda and Carl, I love them. They’re everything. They are the whole reason I was able to do this. They helped me with everything. They knew I wanted to do this and they made sure I did it. They didn’t change it. They helped me build a studio in our backyard and they let me drag people through the house

till we had the studio in the backyard to record people. They facilitated something that – I don’t know if they knew I was going to do this someday, but I think they were hoping I would work hard and make a living doing something I loved. They’re extremely happy for me and proud of me, and I’m happy and grateful to make them proud because that’s what I do it for—Back home, all my friends, my family. I really love where I’m from and I love what I do. The journey is the people you meet along the way and the people who are in your life— that’s the journey. It’s a blessing to have them too.

Yake holds a bachelor’s degree from Five Towns College in Business Administration with a concentration in Audio Recording Technology. In addition to Bernarr, he has collaborated with artists including Jordin Sparks, Bart Oatmeal, Baron Davis, J. Stone and KD the Poet.

For more information, visit alexyake.com.

First of Suffolk’s 250th anniversary video series now available

Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine announced the first video in a docuseries to help commemorate Suffolk 250. The series will highlight local historical figures and places with significance during Suffolk’s revolutionary period.

The first video is of Patriot’s Rock in Setauket. Operated by the Three Village Community Trust, the location was the site of the Battle of Setauket. Patriots came across the Long Island Sound and faced off against the British garrison at the then Presbyterian Meeting House on August 22,

1777. The resulting skirmish ended in a retreat by the colonial forces. Members of the trust walk viewers through the battle, its importance to the war and the area’s history as a Native American meeting place.

Link to Patriot’s Rock Video: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=hr9FH2PQJsc

More information on Patriot’s Rock can be found at https://www. threevillagecommunitytrust.org/patriots-rock-historic-site/

For more on Suffolk 250, please visit https://www.suffolk250.org/

Meet some of our local scholars...

The following students were recently recognized for academic achievements and graduation at their respective colleges:

Dean’s List at the University at Buffalo: Glenn Allen of Amityville; Derek Calcano of Amityville; Armando Castillo Hernandez of Amityville; Patrick Dunn of Copiague; and Priya Persaud of Amityville.

•Andrew Dicianni of Copiague was recently named to the Dean’s List and President’s List at the University of Hartford.

•Pearl Hannah of Copiague was recent-

ly named to the Dean’s List at the University of Hartford. :

•The following students were recently named to the Dean’s List at The University of Alabama: Emily Geiger of Amityville; Caitlin Mullin of Amityville; and Cole Weinberg of Amityville.

Got a scholar in your house? Submit information to us and we will include it in an upcoming scholar list. Send the details to cjames@liherald.com. and please include your name and telephone number.

Town of Babylon Food Pantry requests donations

Councilman DuWayne Gregory is urging residents to support families by donating to the Town of Babylon Food Pantry, which is currently in desperate need of food.

Items may be dropped off at the pantry, located at the ACE Center, 48 Cedar Road, Amityville. The pantry provides essential food and household items to neighbors facing hardship. The pantry is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

The pantry will be welcoming do-

nations of unexpired, nonperishable foods and toiletries. Items may also be dropped off Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Town Council Office, Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst; Department of Human Services, temporary location at the Town Hall Annex, 281 Phelps Lane, North Babylon; and the Old Town Hall, 47 W. Main St., Suite 2, Babylon.

For more information, please call (631) 957-3000.

Kiwanis Spring Social, March 1

Kiwanis Internation will be holding their Spring Social on March 1 from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Unqua Corinthian Yacht Club.

The event will include a 50/50 raffle, Chinese Auction and Credit Card Bar. The cost is $25 per person.

For tickets and table reservations, please call Kevin Smith at (516) 351-1270 or email afd1131@verizon.net

No food will be served but you are permitted to bring light snacks.

The Unqua Corinthian Yacht Club is located at 31 Unqua Place, Amityville.

Hometown Heroes Banner Program accepting orders

The Lindenhurst Kiwanis is now accepting orders for their Hometown Heroes Banner Program.

Honor your Hometown Hero with a custom banner displayed in North Babylon, West Babylon, Village of Lindenhurst, Deer

Park, Wheatley Heights, North Amityville, Wyandanch, Copiague and the Village of Amityville. Space is limited, so please do not delay.

For more information and to place your order visit shorturl.at/kbqH9.

OPEN HOUSE - JOB FAIR!

Nominate a student under 18 for the Sustainability Champion Award to recognize their efforts in driving sustainable change.

Submit a nomination of approximately 100 words or less describing the student’s leadership in promoting sustainability: What motivates them? What impact have they had?

Be sure to include a photo or an example of their work—whether it’s a community garden, an environmental campaign, or a creative solution to a sustainability challenge.

Jean-Pierre encourages civic engagement

By ABBY GIBSON & KUMBA JAGNE Interns

Hempstead native Karine Jean-Pierre, the former press secretary in President Joe Biden’s administration, was the latest guest in Hofstra University’s “Signature Speaker” series.

Jean-Pierre, who served in the White House from May 2022 to January 2025, made history as the first Black and first openly LGBTQ person to be press secretary.

She is a graduate of Kellenberg High, in Uniondale, and Columbia University, and her involvement with Hempstead has not diminished: She gave Hempstead High School’s commencement speech in 2022, and was given the keys to the village by Mayor Waylyn Hobbs Jr. in 2024.

“This is very much home for me,” Jean-Pierre said on Feb. 12. “This is not unfamiliar ground.”

Sister members of her honorary sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Hofstra students, community members and students from 18 area high schools attended the event.

Hempstead High senior Zeydi Guerra, 17, said that Jean-Pierre’s speech left her with more motivation to succeed in her own career. “She’s a Hempstead native,” Guerra said. “I feel like if she can make it, I can definitely do something as well.”

Speaking directly to the high school students, JeanPierre encouraged them to be curious, ambitious and passionate. A common thread through her speech, a panel discussion and an interview with student media was urging people to become involved in politics, even though the options may be imperfect.

“Your civic identity doesn’t begin at 18 — it begins when you start paying attention,” she said. “When you

Karine Jean-Pierre, a Hempstead native and former White House press secretary, spoke as part of Hofstra University’s Signature Speaker series.

notice what feels fair and what doesn’t, who gets heard and who has to jump higher just to be seen.”

Eleanor McKay, of Hempstead, president of the Long Island Cross County Chapter of the National Council of Negro Women, said she attended because she recognizes the importance of Jean-Pierre being a Black woman who held a high-profile government position.

“She talked about seeing someone touch President

Obama’s hair, a young [Black] boy, and realize that from the texture he was here and how real it is that he is just like us,” McKay said. “Sometimes it’s not really appreciated, or we don’t understand the magnitude of representation. It impacts us and the next generation.”

Hofstra University President Susan Poser introduced Camryn Bowden, a senior majoring in political science and journalism, who in turn introduced JeanPierre. Poser spoke so glowingly of Bowden’s resumé that Jean-Pierre said she would be working for Bowden one day.

“I had the opportunity to get her to sign my copy of her book ‘Independent,’” Bowden said. “She wrote in the book, ‘I’ll be watching you on the news someday.’ It was, again, just a surreal experience to hear someone who held such a high position of power in the White House say such sweet things.”

Jean-Pierre’s first book was “Moving Forward: A Story of Hope, Hard Work, and the Promise of America.” Her most recent, published last October, is “Independent: A Look Inside a Broken White House, Outside the Party Lines.”

She empathized with young people’s feelings of being disconnected from the two-party system. “The two-party system often feels rigid, outdated and unresponsive,” she said. “It forces false choices and limits imagination. Questioning that system is not a failure of citizenship.”

She expressed disdain for the current administration, saying, “This too shall pass.”

“We have to work as a people to make sure that there is people power in this time, that our voices are heard, that we hold powerful people accountable,” Jean-Pierre said. “We are celebrating 250 years of this country, and that is a young democracy. If we don’t fight for it every day, we will lose it.”

Classes competed against each other in tug-of-war at center court during Amityville Memorial High School’s Battle of the Classes on Dec. 23.

Battle of the Classes at Amityville Memorial High School

Amityville Memorial High School concluded its Spirit Week in festive fashion December 23 with a holiday-themed Battle of the Classes held in the school gymnasium.

The lively event brought together students from all grade levels, with classes competing head-to-head in a variety of fun and energetic games. Activities included Hungry Hungry Hippo, a potato

sack race, stacking towering cardboard boxes, a mummy wrap contest, and an enthusiastic tug-of-war showdown.

The gym buzzed with school spirit as students packed the bleachers, proudly cheering on their classmates and celebrating friendly competition to close out the week. After a competitive afternoon of events, the seniors emerged as the winner of Battle of the Classes.

STEPPING OUT

Rhythms, rituals and revelry

Carnival is back at Long Island Children’s Museum

By Abbey Salvemini

Let the good times roll when the museum opens its doors to Carnival on Saturday.

As a globally cherished cultural celebration, Carnival honors the unique traditions and diverse identities of the Caribbean and Latin American cultures it touches. Locally, Long Island Children’s Museum transforms into a vibrant street festival for its second annual Carnival — a vibrant showcase of creativity and self-expression — through a blend of music, dance, crafts and interactive programming.

Supported by New York State Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, the event highlights the museum’s commitment to creating shared cultural experiences for Long Island families.

“As a woman of Caribbean descent, I am proud to sponsor this event at the Long Island Children’s Museum, an institution that plays a vital role in educating and inspiring our young people,” Solages says. “Events like this remind us, and teach the next generation, that diversity is our strength and that honoring our roots can be both joyful and meaningful.”

American Chamber Ensemble in concert

Hofstra University’s renowned ensemble-in-residence celebrates the legacies of founding clarinetist Naomi Drucker and longtime violist Lois Martin at its upcoming concert. The program — a diverse selection of works by Mendelssohn, Hurlstone, Beach, Dimmler, and Steven Gerber — honors both who were instrumental in shaping ACE’s storied history. In a special tribute to Martin, the ensemble performs Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 6, a masterpiece known for its prominent viola scoring. Drucker, a revered educator and co-founder, is remembered with David Holsinger’s On a Hymnsong of Philip Bliss. In a testament to her impact, f Drucker’s former students, colleagues, and friends join the ensemble on stage for this moving tribute

• Saturday, Feb. 28, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

• Admission: $18, $16 65+

• View the LICM events calendar at licm.org for additional information or call (516) 224-5800

• 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

While the iconic celebrations in Rio de Janeiro and Portau-Prince often steal the spotlight, the museum’s festival dives deeper into the tapestry of the region — from the energetic parades of Barranquilla to the historic traditions of Oruro and Montevideo. They are expressions of heritage and identity, artistic creativity and community spirit that define the joy of marking the changing seasons and the region’s rich tapestry.

Visitors will get a taste of Carnival’s jubilant spirit of throughout the day’s programming.

“We were looking for a festival that embodies the diversity of Long Island,” Aimee Terzulli, the museum’s vice president of program and visitor experience shares. “These cultural festivals are invitations to the community.”

Throughout the day, families can expect a lively mix of music, movement and creative experiences, set against the backdrop of upbeat Caribbean rhythms that create a lively, tropical atmosphere.

The Brazilian Samba Novo troupe, a returning favorite, gets everyone moving to the sounds of Samba and salsa music. The lively dancers and energetic drummers once again entertain the crowd and teach kids some of the dance steps, adding an interactive element to their entertainment. Those towering “Jumbie” stilt walkers, rooted as a symbol of spirit guardians, are also back, bring the magic to life as an iconic part of the Carnival celebration.

“The performances resemble what Carnival would really be like,” Terzulli enthuses.

No Carnival is complete without a massive parade to ring in the holiday. Here everyone gets into the parade spirit during what she describes as “the fantastic float parade.”

Kids can help decorate miniature floats before pulling them through the parade, accompanied by dancers and stilt walkers. And, of course, there’s a Carnival King and Queen involved — chosen from

in the air, joy in every step. Samba Novo dancers bring rhythms to life and invite young guests to move, groove and celebrate together.

Vsitors get creative with hands-on artmaking, turning tradition into playful masterpieces.

those in the “crowd” to reinforce the event’s playful, inclusive spirit.

Little faces, big imaginations! From butterflies to bold designs, creativity takes center stage as kids are transformed into works of art.

The museum’s animal ‘residents” even join in the fun, helping families understand how wildlife has historically inspired Carnival imagery and costume design. New craft offerings this year include maraca-making, ribbon stick design and face painting.

However, the day isn’t just about play — it’s about perspective.

“We want everyone to find an entry point,” Terzulli says.

While the event is undeniably festive, education remains a core focus. Museum staff and performers involve conversations about Carnival’s history and meaning throughout the day, helping visitors understand its cultural roots while enjoying it all. Through partnerships with authentic cultural contributors, the museum ensures the history of the experience remains front and center.

“We make sure that when they are making the crafts, there is an exchange of why they are making it,” Turzelli adds.

Of course, no festival is complete without flavor. Families can pause for a “pit stop” to sample sweet and savory treats inspired by various Latin American and Caribbean nations, providing a literal taste of the regions being celebrated.

At its heart, the aim is for families to leave with more than just memories of a fun day. Carnival also reflects the museum’s broader mission of serving as a community gathering place.

“I hope they walk away with a sense of joy about the holiday. I think it’s a beautiful, multicultural event,” Terzulli adds. “We want LICM to be a space where people come to learn about each other.”

Sunday, March 1, 3 p.m. $20, $15 seniors 65+ or students with ID; available at the door. Hofstra University, Monroe Lecture Center, California Ave., Hempstead. For information or reservations, call (631) 242-5684 or (516) 586-3433.

“Don’t stop believin’…

Voyage rocks on with another dynamic tribute to Journey. The popular band takes everyone back to the ‘80s when Journey’s timeless music ruled the airwaves. Hailed by fans and critics alike, the band performs the music with chilling accuracy. Voyage is celebrated for their uncanny ability to recreate the legendary sound, energy and passion of one of rock’s greatest bands. With their blistering guitar solos, lush keyboard arrangements, electrifying stage presence, and stunning harmonies, the band has earned a reputation as the ultimate homage to Journey’s timeless music. Fronted by vocalist Pedro Espada, whose range and tone is acclaimed as rivaling the iconic Steve Perry, he’s backed by a lineup of world-class musicians — Robby Hoffman, Greg Smith, Lance Millard, and Dana Spellman — who bring every note to life with precision and heart. Voyage doesn’t just perform Journey’s greatest hits — they transport audiences back to the height of arena rock glory.

Friday, Feb. 27, 8 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

Feb

‘Everybody Loves Raymond: Celebrating 30 Years’

Visit the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame for its latest exhibit. The immersive exhibit (designed by LIMEHOF Creative Director, renowned designer Kevin O’Callaghan) features the 70-footwide 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

Thrift Shop

Feb

27

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 start your new year with 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

Night Sky Live

Visit Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum’s Reichert Planetarium for a family-friendly program with an astronomy educator. Tour the night sky from right in Centerport. Topics vary depending on the time of year, but can include seasonal constellations, visible planets, galaxies, nebulae, and more. $22, $18 seniors and students, $16 child 12 and under.

• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport

• Time: 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; also Feb. 28 and March 6

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

Jessie’s Girl

MAR 6

• Time: Light refreshments 12:30-1 p.m.; lecture 1-2 p.m.

• Contact: (631) 854-4974

MAR

4

Amityville Chamber of Commerce meets The Amityville Chamber of Commerce holds their monthly meeting. The guest speaker is Sheiva Gourdain from Tragar’s Fueling Kindness Program.

• Where: Amity Ales, 192 Broadway, Amityville

• Time: Noon-1:30 p.m.

• Contact: (631) 552-5673

Kid Zone

Children in grades Pre-K-5 are invited to First Presbyterian Church’s Kid Zone, weekly. Included is dinner, a Bible story, as well as crafts and games.

• Where: 79 E. Main St., Babylon

• Time: 5:30-7 p.m.

• Contact: (631) 587-5838

Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group

• Time: 8 p.m.

Drag out that neon once again and give your hair its best ‘80s ‘do. Those crazy days are back — as only Jessie’s Girl can pull off, on the Paramount stage. The band of NYC’s top rock/pop musicians and singers gets everyone into that “Back To The Eighties” vibe with the latest edition of their popular concert experience. With a lineup including four pop-rock vocalists dressing and performing as 80s icons, backed by a dynamic band, this is the definitive ‘80s experience. Jessie’s Girl’s primary line-up includes a team of NYC’s top rock and pop vocalists: Jenna O’Gara, Jerome Bell-Bastien, and Mark Rinzel. They are backed by one of the tightest bands in the city comprised of 20+ year veterans of the NYC music scene: Eric Presti on guitar, Drew Mortali on bass, Michael Maenza on drums, and Karlee Bloom on Keys and the Keytar. Each with dozens of credits performing with authentic ‘80s icons who made the music famous to begin with! From the synth-pop glitz of the early MTV era to the power ballads of stadium rock, the band captures the specific magic that defined a generation. Throw on top of that: a load of super-fun choreography, audience participation, props, costumes bubbles, and confetti — and you have a party that audiences don’t want to leave. Their motto: There’s no decade like the Eighties and no party like Back To The Eighties with Jessie’s Girl. Whether you lived through the ‘80s the first time or are just a fan of the timeless anthems, you’ll want to join in the fun.

Feb

28

Church Attic Thrift Shop

Visit First United Methodist Church for their weekly thrift shop.

• Where: 25 Broadway, Amityville

• Time: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

• Contact: (631) 264-0152 or email amitychurch1792@gmail.com

Native Garden Design Workshop

Vanderbilt Museum welcomes Anthony Marinello, CNLP, owner of native plant nursery Dropseed Native Landscapes, for a discussion on designing, creating and maintaining native plant gardens. Whether you want to support pollinators, butterflies, or songbirds, native plants provide wildlife habitat while simultaneously beautifying our landscape. $25, $22.50 members. Registration required.

• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport

• Time: 10 a.m.-noon

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

MAR

Kiwanis Spring Social

1

Kiwanis International welcomes all to their spring social. With a 50/50 raffle, Chinese Auction and bar. $25 per person. No food is served, but attendees can bring bring light snacks.

• Where: Unqua Corinthian Yacht Club. 31 Unqua Place, Amityville

• Time: 3-7 p.m.

• Contact: For tickets and table reservations, call Kevin Smith at (516) 351-1270 or email afd1131@verizon.net

Winter Concert ‘Salon’ Series

Warm up from the winter cold and enjoy the comfort of fine classical music at Bayard Cutting Arboretum State Park. Listen this week to Serenade Duo. Seating is limited with pre-registration required through the Islip Arts Council.

• Where: 440 Montauk Highway, Great River

• Time: 1 p.m.

• Contact: For registration, call the Islip Arts Council at (631) 888-3525; day of concert information, call Bayard Cutting Arboretum at (631) 581-1002

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

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

In concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame welcomes the Bob Morris Irish Band. Dedicated to performing the traditional tunes and songs of Ireland, band members welcome all to experience the joyful sounds of fiddles, banjos, flutes, mandolin, harmonica, bodhran and guitar. Expect plenty of jigs and reels along with many of your favorite sing along songs from old Erin.

• Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook

• Time: 3 p.m.

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

Proving Ground on the Sound: The Story of Bushnell’s Submarine and HMS Eagle

Join historian-author-instructor Joshua Donohue for a fascinating lecture. He discusses the history of the underwater vessel Turtle and how its humble beginnings on the Long Island Sound during the American Revolution would transform naval warfare. Registration is required. Lectures are free for members and $10 for non-members.

• Where: Long Island Maritime Museum, 88 West Ave., West Sayville

This group meets weekly, at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9592, in person with Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. All calls are confidential.

• Where: 55 Hickory Lane, Levittown

• Time: 7:30 -9 p.m.

• Contact: Steve at (631) 332-0552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808

Chocolate Expo

MAR

22

The annual Chocolate Expo returns for another delectable edition. Check out the tastings and sales of chocolates, baked goods, specialty foods, cheeses, dairy products, craft beverages (wines, spirits, cider, mead and more and ready-to-eat foods from 60-120+ vendor booths. With demos, interactive presentations and celebrity appearances, plus fun for children in the “Kidz Zone.”

• Where: Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale

• Time: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com

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.

New study shows canine obesity can increase eye pressure

A new study found that overweight and obese dogs have significantly higher eye pressure than lean dogs. The research suggests that excess body fat and related metabolic changes may interfere with fluid drainage in the eye, potentially serving as a fixable risk factor for dogs predisposed to glaucoma. These findings emphasize that keeping a healthy weight is a vital part of protecting a dog’s long-term vision and ocular health.

This study led by Dr. Oren Pe’er from the Koret School of Veterinary Medicine at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem found a clear link between a dog’s body weight and the pressure inside their eyes. While most owners are aware that excess body weight can contribute to conditions such as insulin resistance, diabetes, chronic low-grade inflammation, and orthopedic disease, this research suggests that obesity may also be an important risk factor for serious vision conditions, including glaucoma.

THE WEIGHT-EYE CONNECTION

The study looked at 40 healthy dogs, ranging from lean to obese. Researchers measured the dogs’ body fat using two methods, including a nine-point body condition score and a canine version of the body mass index. (The nine-point body condition rating is the same scale that SPCAs use when assessing the level of cruelty a dog has endured.) Eye pressure increases 1.9 mmHg (millimeters of mercury) for every one-unit rise in the body condition score.

The results showed a significant dif-

ference in eye health based on weight:

• Higher Pressure: Overweight and obese dogs had a much higher typical eye pressure of 20.3 points, while lean dogs were much lower at 13.7 points. Though both groups were within a safe range, the heavier dogs were much closer to the upper limit (25 points) where eye health problems typically start.

• A Steady Rise: For every onepoint increase on the nine-point body condition scale, the pressure inside the eye rose nearly two points. As a dog moves from a healthy weight toward being overweight, their eyes are put under more strain.

• For every 10% increase in a dog’s body mass index, their eye pressure jumped by almost three points. Since eye pressure is measured on a very small scale, a jump this size is significant, highlighting how directly a dog’s body condition can affect their eyes.

WHY DOES THIS HAPPEN?

Scientists believe several factors might be at play. Physical changes like fat accumulation around the eye or increased pressure in veins might make it harder for fluid to drain. Also, metabolic changes caused by obesity, such as higher levels of certain fats and hormones in the blood, could influence eye pressure.

In the study, overweight dogs had higher levels of triglycerides and leptin, a hormone related to body fat. Both were linked to higher eye pressure in the initial findings.

“Higher body weight in normal dogs is significantly associated with higher intraocular pressure,” says lead researcher Dr.

Oren Pe’er. “Obesity might be a modifiable risk factor in dogs predisposed to glaucoma.”

WHAT CAN OWNERS DO?

While the eye pressure in both groups of dogs was still within the normal range of 10 to 25 mmHg, the difference of 6.6 mmHg between the lean and overweight dogs is notable. For breeds already at risk for glaucoma, such as Boston Terriers and Basset Hounds, this extra pressure could be a relevant factor in their long-term eye health.

The main message for pet parents is that weight management is not only about mobility or general well-being. Maintaining a healthy body condition plays a significant role in preserving normal vision and reducing the risk of eye disease, particularly in breeds that are already predisposed to ocular problems.

KITTENS FOR ADOPTION AT BABYLON ANIMAL SHELTER (631-643-9270):

Two spayed females- Rem #6-44, a sixmonth old tabby, and Moo #643, an eightmonth cow pattern, are available for adoption at Babylon Shelter, 80 New Highway, N. Amityville 11701.

Cats are vaccinated, FeLV/FIV tested, and microchipped.

Notice of the Final Annual Meeting of Beth Moses Cemetery Corporation

The Annual Meeting of the Beth Moses Cemetery Corporation (“the Corporation”) will be the Final Annual Meeting since the merger with Wellwood Cemetery on December 17, 2025 and will be held in the office of Pryor Cashman LLP, 7 Times Square, New York, NY 10036 Borough of Manhattan, City of New York on the 3rd day of March 2026 at 2:00 in the afternoon.

Dated January 2026 Anthony Biolsi Secretary 26-34. 2/11, 18, 25

NOTICE is hereby given that the PLANNING BOARD of the Village of Amityville will hold a Public Hearing in the Court Room of Village Hall, 21 Ireland Place, Amityville, NY at 6:00 P.M. on THURSDAY, March 5, 2026, to consider the following applications: Application of Multibrands Amityville Operating Company for DXE RT 110. Applicant seeks review and approval for the proposed installation of new Dunkin’ BR Baskin Robbin branding signage pursuant to Section 24-6 A (1) (j) of the Village Code. Premises located on the East side of Broadway (Rt 110), approximately 220 feet South of Dixon Avenue in a “B-1 Business” District known as 355 Broadway a/k/a SCTM# 101-3-220.6.

By Order of the Planning Board, Village of Amityville Catherine Murdock, Clerk/Treasurer

26-38 2/18, 25

Public Notices — Your right to know

NOTICE OF SALE

Supreme Court County of Suffolk

U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee, successor in interest to Bank of America, National Association, as Trustee, successor by merger to LaSalle Bank National Association, as Trustee for Merrill Lynch Mortgage Investors Trust, Mortgage Loan AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2006-AR1, Plaintiff AGAINST Frank E. Connor, Jr. a/k/a Frank E. Connor a/k/a Frank Connor, et al, Defendant

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on January 6, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Hwy., North Lindenhurst, NY on March 23, 2026 at 9:00 AM premises known as 64 Offaly Street, Amityville, NY 11701. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the County of Suffolk, State of New York, SECTION: 163.00, BLOCK: 03.00, LOT: 066.001, District 0100. Approximate amount of judgment is $686,972.95 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 613660/2017. For sale information, please visit XOME at www.XOME.com or call 844-400-9663. Richard Lavorata, Jr., Referee

FRENKEL LAMBERT WEISMAN & GORDON LLP

53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 26-36. 2/18, 25, 3/4, 11

IN THE JUVENILE COURT OF GENEVA COUNTY, ALABAMA IN THE MATTER OF: *

J. P. V. *

D.O.B. 02/21/2024 *

A Child * Case No. JU-2024-37.02

THE STATE OF ALABAMA SENDS GREETINGS TO:

M Inatat Ur Rahman Khan the father of J.P.V., a male child born to Shannon Renae Lolley on February 21, 2024.  You are hereby summoned to appear in the Juvenile Court of Geneva County, Alabama, 200 N. Commerce St., Geneva, Alabama on the      18th   day of    May   , 2026, at 1:30 p.m. , to answer a Petition filed to terminate your parental rights.  If you intend to contest this petition, you must file a written response within 14 days with the Juvenile Clerk, Geneva County Courthouse, 200 N. Commerce St., Geneva, Alabama 36340.  Your failure to respond may result in the termination of your parental rights concerning the above-named child. 26-37 2/28, 25, 3/4, 11

LEGAL NOTIC TO THE TAXPAYERS OF THE COPIAGUE FIRE DISTRICT:

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a resolution was duly adopted by the Board of Fire Commissioners of the COPIAGUE FIRE DISTRICT, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk, State of New York, on the 11th day of February, 2026, subject to a permissive referendum as provided for by Section 6(g) of the General Municipal Law.

An extract of the resolution is as follows:

The COPIAGUE FIRE DISTRICT maintains a Buildings, Furnishings and Equipment Reserve Fund under Section 6(g) of the General Municipal Law in which account there is sufficient funds to accomplish the purpose hereinafter set forth; namely, the installation of a new fire alarm system at fire headquarters and it is proposed to contract for such work, in order to maintain the high standards of the COPIAGUE FIRE DEPARTMENT in the discharge of its duties in preserving the lives and property of the residents of the community and said work is deemed

Notice of formation of JC Edward Consulting LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York on 1/19/2026

in the best interests of the residents of the COPIAGUE FIRE DISTRICT. The resolution further provides that there be transferred from the present Building, Furnishing and Equipment Reserve Fund of the COPIAGUE FIRE DISTRICT a sum not to exceed Sixty-One Thousand ($61,000.00) Dollars for said work, and the District Treasurer is authorized to effect such transfer from time to time to effect such work. This resolution amends resolution adopted by the Board of Fire Commissioners on January 14, 2026 by increasing the amount for the project by $16,000.00. This resolution shall not take effect until thirty (30) days unless in the meanwhile a mandatory referendum as provided for by the General Municipal Law is required to be held.

Dated: February 11, 2026

BOARD OF FIRE COMMISSIONERS

COPIAGUE FIRE DISTRICT TOWN OF BABYLON ATTEST: Donna Marano District Secretary 26-41. 2/25

Office location, 19 Francine Ave., Amityville, NY, County of Suffolk. Secretary of State of New York has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. Secretary of State of New York shall mail a process served to: JC Edward Consulting LLC, 54 State Street, STE 804, Albany, NY 12207

Purpose: any lawful act

26-40 2/18, 25, 3/4, 11, 28, 25

The Town of Babylon Rental Review Board will hold a Public Hearing at The Town of Babylon 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York (East Wing Board Room) on Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at 6:00pm NEW APPLICATION

1. Mohammad Ahad 42 Jaqueline Way N. Babylon NY 11703

SCTM NO: 0100-89.01-1-42

2. CCDP Homes LLC

183 Commack Rd. Deer Park NY 11729

SCTM NO: 010090-1-65

3. Jose Benitez 25 S. 19th St. Wyandanch NY 11798

SCTM NO: 010056-3-41 26-42 2/25

SUFFOLK COUNTY NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURTSTATE OF NEW YORK- COUNTY OF SUFFOLK BETTER PROPERTY ENTERPRISES LLC., Plaintiff, -AGAINSTALBANY AMITYVILLE LLC, 510 AMITYVILLE LLC, et al., Defendants. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on August 8, 2025, the court appointed Referee, will sell at public auction at the Town of Babylon, Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Hwy, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on March 23, 2026, at 9:30 AM. Premises known as 51O Albany 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 County of Suffolk, State of New York. Section 173.00 Block 01.00 and Lots 13.00. Approximate amount of judgement: $294,688.93 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgement, Index No.: 630800/2023 Referee: Laurie Gatto, Esq. Plaintiff Attorney: Solomon Herrera McCormick, PLLC - 40 Marcus Drive, Suite 202, Melville, New York 11747

Please take notice that this foreclosure auction shall be conducted in compliance with the Foreclosure Auction Rules for Suffolk County and the COVID 19 Health Emergency Rules, including proper use of masks and social distancing. 26-45 2/25, 3/4, 11, 18

Schedule your Annual Memory Screening Appointment

Alzheimer’s Foundation of America Offering Free Memory Screenings to Long Islanders at its AFA Barbara Rabinowitz Education & Resource Center

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is encouraging Long Islanders to get a head start on 2026 by scheduling their annual memory screening appointment. AFA offers free, confidential memory screenings at its AFA Barbara Rabinowitz Education and Resource Center (149 Schleigel Blvd., Amityville) with no minimum age or insurance prerequisites every Wednesday. Appointments can be scheduled by calling the Center at 631-223-4000.

Annual memory screenings should be part of everyone’s health and wellness routine. They are quick (approximately 10-15 minutes), noninvasive, and consist of a series of questions to gauge memory, language, thinking skills and other cognitive functions. Screenings are administered one on one by a qualified professional, and results are confidential and provided immediately at the end of the screening. Results are not a diagnosis, but a memory screening can suggest if someone should see a physician for a full evaluation.

Early detection of memory impairments is vital. Many different conditions can cause memory issues, including treatable or curable conditions such as vitamin deficiencies, thyroid disorders, urinary tract infections, sleep apnea, stress, anxiety, and depression. Even in the case of a dementia-related illness such as Alzheimer’s, early detection can provide greater opportunity to begin treatments when they are most effective, as well as taking part in a clinical trial. In addition, it affords the person the chance to take advantage of community services, such as support groups and therapeutic programming, which can help maximize quality of life, as well as have a greater say in making legal, financial, and health care decisions.

Memory screenings are equally important for people who aren’t experiencing symptoms of memory loss. Like other health screenings, they provide a baseline that can help uncover a potential issue sooner.

Residents can schedule their free memory screening appointment by calling the AFA Barbara Rabinowitz Education & Resource Center at 631-223-4000.

NOTICE OF SPECIAL DISTRICT MEETING OF THE AMITYVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY BUDGET VOTE AND TRUSTEE ELECTION

APRIL 14, 2026

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Special Meeting of the qualified voters of the Amityville Union Free School District (the “District”), Town of Babylon, Suffolk County and Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, New York will be held at the Amityville Public Library, 19 John St., Amityville, New York 11701 (the “Library”) on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, between the hours of 10:00am and 9:00pm, for the purpose of voting on the following items:

• To adopt the annual budget of the Amityville Public Library for the fiscal year 2026-2027, and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation upon the taxable property of the District; and

• The election of two (2) members of the Board of Trustees, consisting of: (i) one (1) trustee to serve a five-year term commencing July 1, 2026 and expiring June 30, 2031; and (ii) one (1) trustee to serve a one-year term commencing July 1, 2026 and expiring June 30, 2027. The candidate receiving the highest number of votes shall be elected to the five-year term, and the candidate receiving the second highest number of votes shall be elected to the oneyear term.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that candidates for the office of Trustee of the Library Board of Trustees shall be nominated by petition. Petitions must be

Public Notices — Your right to know

filed with the School District Clerk (address above), between the hours of 9:00am and 5:00pm no later than Monday, March 16, 2026. Forms of petition may be obtained from the School District Clerk. Each petition must be directed to the School District Clerk; must state the name and address of the candidate; must be signed by at least twenty-five (25) qualified voters of the District and list each signer’s address.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that copies of a statement of the estimated library expenses for the fiscal year 2026-2027 may be obtained at the Library (address above) and in the Office of the School District Clerk, located at 150 Park Ave., Amityville, NY 11701, daily except Saturday and Sunday, beginning March 16, 2026, between 9:00am and 4:00pm.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that the Library will host a public informational meeting for the purposes of discussion of the proposed 20262027 Library Budget on March 30, 2026 at 6:00pm. All residents of the District are invited to attend at the Library.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that pursuant to section 2014 of the Education Law, personal registration of voters is required, and no person shall be entitled to vote at said meeting and election whose name does not already appear on the register of said school district, or who does not register as hereinafter provided, except as may otherwise be provided by the laws of the State of New York. Registration is available in the Office of the School District

Clerk (address above) Monday through Friday, from 9:00am to 4:00pm, through April 14, 2026. The register so prepared includes all persons who have presented themselves personally for registration in accordance herewith, and all persons who shall have been registered previously hereunder for an annual or special meeting or election, and who shall have voted at any annual meeting or election, held or conducted at any time within four (4) years prior to the preparation of the register. A qualified voter is one who is (i) a citizen of the United States, (ii) at least eighteen (18) years of age, and (iii) a resident within the District for a period of thirty (30) days next preceding the meeting and election

NOTICE IS FUR-

THER GIVEN that applications for early mail or absentee ballots may be applied for at the Office of the School District Clerk (address above). Completed applications must be received in the Office of the School District Clerk at least seven (7) days before the election, if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election, if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter. Early mail or absentee ballots must be received by the School District Clerk, or in the polling place at the Library, not later than 5:00pm, prevailing time, on Monday, April 13, 2026. A list of persons to whom early mail or absentee ballots shall have been issued will be available in the Office of the School District Clerk on each of the five days prior to the day of the election, except Saturdays and Sundays and

such list will also be posted at the polling place at the election.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that a qualified voter whose ability to appear personally at the polling place is substantially impaired by reasons of permanent illness or physical disability, and whose registration record has been marked “permanently disabled” by the Board of Elections pursuant to the provisions of the Education Law, shall be entitled to receive an absentee ballot without making separate applications therefor.

FURTHER NOTICE IS GIVEN that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter. Military voters who are qualified voters of the Library District may submit an application for a military ballot. Military voters may designate a preference to receive a military voter registration, military ballot application or military ballot by mail, facsimile transmission, or electronic mail in their request for such registration, ballot application or ballot. Military voter registration forms and military ballot applications must be received in the Office of the School District Clerk (address above) no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday March 20, 2026. No military ballot will be canvassed unless it is received by the Office of the School District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on the day of the election.

Dated: Amityville, New York February 19, 2026 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE AMITYVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY, TOWN OF BABYLON, SUF-

FOLK COUNTY AND TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK BY DISTRICT CLERK AMITYVILLE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, TOWN OF BABYLON, SUFFOLK COUNTY, TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK 26-43. 2/25, 3/11, 25, 4/8

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26

•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

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27

•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, FEBRUARY 28

•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, MARCH 1

•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631) 789-2569.

MONDAY, MARCH 2

•Town of Babylon Planning Board Meeting: 7 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. For more information, please call (631) 9574434.

TUESDAY, MARCH 3

•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, MARCH 4

•Town of Babylon Rental Review Board Meeting: 6 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindnhurst. For more information, please call (631) 957-4434.

•Amityville School District Board of Education Work Session: 7:30 p.m., Park Avenue Memorial Elementary School, 140 Park Ave., Amityville. For more information, please call (631) 565-6000.

•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

Calendar items are printed for non-profit organizations, as space permits, or when an event, service or information is being sponsored by a profit-making organization without charge to readers. Submit items to us at Richner Communications, attn: Record Editor, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530; or email: dconsola@liherald.com at least two - three weeks prior to the publication date in which the item must appear. Sorry, but openended 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.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

TOWN OF BABYLON - ZONING

BOARD OF APPEALS

Pursuant to Chapter 213, Article II of the Building Zone Ordinance of the Town of Babylon, notice is hereby given that the Town of Babylon on Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a Public Hearing at TOWN BOARD ROOM

(Located in the East Wing) at Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York on THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2026

BEGINNING AT 6:00

P.M.

6:00 p.m.

Application #26-19

Katerin Duran, 75 Lafayette Road, West Babylon, NY. Permission to diminish front yard setback from 30’ to 24’; increase total building area from 30% to 32.23% (over by 141 sq. ft.). All in connection with a proposed dormer and to legally maintain the front stoop and patio. Property located on the south side of Rutledge Avenue, 351’ east of Taylor Avenue, North Babylon, NY.

SCTM#0100-1513-21

Zoning District: Residence C

Subject Premises: 96 Rutledge Road, North Babylon, NY

6:05 p.m.

Application #26-11

Frank Mario Sciara, 1611 A Street, West Babylon, NY. Permission to diminish east side yard setback from 15’ to 14.33’; diminish total side yards from 35’ to 28.93’; increase total building area from 15% to 24.36% (over by 1,019.49 sq. ft.); diminish distance to rear lot line from 10’ to 7.5’ (for shed); diminish distance to west lot line from 2’ to

.8’ (for platform). All in connection with a proposed rear twostory addition and to legally maintain a shed, platform, and second-story deck.

Property located on the south side of “A” Street, 148.65’ west of Little East Neck Road, West Babylon, NY.

SCTM#0100-1392-74.002

Zoning District: Residence A 6:10 p.m.

3. Application #2613 Kevin Maurice Fox and Kylon Aaron Blackman, 77 Andrews Avenue, Wheatley Heights, NY. Permission to diminish front yard setback from 30’ to 15.4’ on Andrews Avenue; diminish distance to north side yard setback from 10’ to 7.2’; diminish rear yard setback from 30’ to 14.8’. All in connection with the erection of a two-story addition and a front addition.

Property located on the northeast corner of Andrews Avenue and Locust Avenue, Wheatley Heights, NY.

SCTM#0100-14-553

Zoning District: Residence C 6:15 p.m.

4. Application #2617 (Lot #1) Thornton Mellon Corporation, 28 West Cherry Street, Hicksville, NY. Permission to diminish width at front street from 75’ to 60’; diminish lot area from 7,500 sq. ft. to 6,000 sq. ft.; diminish front yard setback from 30’ to 27’ (for portico); to subdivide a parcel of land from 120’ x 100’ into 60’ x 100’. All in connection with the proposed subdivision of one (1) lot into two (2) lots and to construct a new two-story single-family dwelling on Lot #1. Property located on the south side of State Street, 540’ east of Lund Street, Wyandanch, NY.

SCTM#0100-83-446

Zoning District: Residence C

Subject Premises: 310 State Avenue, Wyandanch, NY

6:20 p.m.

5. Application #2618 (Lot #2) Thornton Mellon Corporation, 28 West Cherry Street, Hicksville, NY. Permission to diminish width at front street from 75’ to 60’; diminish lot area from

7,500 sq. ft. to 6,000 sq. ft.; diminish front yard setback from 30’ to 21.2’; diminish distance to east lot line from 6’ to 3.2’ (for garage); diminish distance to rear lot line from 6’ to 2.5’ (for garage); allow an enclosed outside basement entrance in the west side yard, a nonpermitted location; to subdivide a parcel of land from 120’ x 100’ into 60’ x 100’. All in connection with the proposed subdivision of one (1) lot into two (2) lots and to legally maintain an existing one-story dwelling, detached garage, and erect an enclosure for an outside basement entrance on Lot #2.

Property located on the south side of State Street, 480’ east of Lund Street, Wyandanch, NY.

SCTM#0100-83-446

Zoning District: Residence C

Subject Premises: 310 State Avenue, Wyandanch, NY 6:25 p.m.

6. Application #26-15

G & R Building Corp. (prop. owner), 281 Main Street, Farmingdale, NY. Permission to erect a twenty-four (24) unit senior citizen multiple residence complex on 1.37 acres where two (2) acres is required; diminish front yard setback from 30’ to 25.5’ on Cedar Road; diminish distance between

buildings B and D from 20’ to 16’; dimmish rear yard setback from 25’ to 14.6’; allow RPZ enclosure within 50’ of front street (27’) (allow RPZ enclosure from 6’ to 5.5’ on east side yard); diminish distance to east side lot line from 6’ to 5.5’ for RPZ enclosure. All in connection with the erection of a senior citizen multiple residence complex. Property located on the south side of Cedar Road, 573.06’ west of Columbus Boulevard, North Amityville, NY.

SCTM#0100-1222-19.001 & 40.002

Zoning District: Residence B

Subject Premises: 120 & 126 Cedar Road, North Amityville, NY

6:30 p.m.

7. Application #26-12 Peggy West Babylon LLC (tenant)/James D. Clark and Gelisie Clark (prop. owners), 500 Broadway, West Babylon, NY. Permission to allow outdoor storage of vehicles awaiting repair as per site plan. All in connection with an existing building. Property located on the south side of Broadway, 180’ east of Falmouth Road, West Babylon, NY.

SCTM#0100-1601-13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 20, & 21

Zoning District: Industry Ga 6:35 p.m.

8. Application #26-14 Happy Days Dispensary Inc. (tenant)/Richard Capri Real Estate Corp. (prop. owner), 101-105 Route 109, East Farmingdale, NY. Renewal of a special exception permit to operate a retail marijuana dispensary. All in connection with a portion of an existing building (previously approved for one (1) year, expired February 6, 2026). Property located on the northeast corner of Route 109

and Route 110, East Farmingdale, NY.

SCTM#0100-70-17.003 & 8

Zoning District: Industry G 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

February 17, 2026 26-46. 2/25

Edmund W. Miles Middle School violinist named to prestigious orchestra

The Amityville School District announced that Edmund W. Miles Middle School eighth grader and violinist Jackson Nehring was selected to represent Amityville as a member of the 2026 Long Island String Festival Association Secondary Honor Orchestras.

Jackson was selected as a violinist in the LISFA Orchestra for outstanding seventh- and eighth-grade string students from across Suffolk County. The annual festival took place last month at Northport High School.

The selection process for this ensemble was extremely competitive and was based on student New York State School Music Association evaluation scores from the Spring 2025 NYSSMA Festival, along with a recommendation from Jackson’s orchestra teacher, Bianca Ferrante.

AVISO DE REUNIÓN ESPECIAL

DEL DISTRITO DE LA BIBLIOTECA

PÚBLICA DE AMITYVILLE

VOTACIÓN PRESUPUESTARIA Y ELECCIÓN DE LOS ADMINISTRADORES

14 DE ABRIL DE 2026

SE EMITE AVISO de que se celebrará una Reunión Especial de los votantes cualificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de Amityville Union (el "Distrito"), el municipio de Babylon, condado de Suffolk y el municipio de Oyster Bay, condado de Nassau, Nueva York, en la Biblioteca Pública de Amityville, 19 John St., Amityville, Nueva York 11701 (la "Biblioteca"), el martes 14 de abril, 2026, entre las 10:00 y las 21:00, con el fin de votar los siguientes puntos:

• Adoptar el presupuesto anual de la Biblioteca Pública de Amityville para el año fiscal 2026-2027, y autorizar que la parte necesaria de este se recaude, mediante impuestos, sobre los bienes sujetos a impuestos del Distrito; y

• La elección de dos (2) miembros de la Junta de Síndicos, compuestos por: (i) uno (1) fideicomisario para servir un mandato de cinco años que comienza el 1 de julio de 2026 y expira el 30 de junio de 2031; y (ii) un (1) fideicomisario para cumplir un mandato de un año que comienza el 1 de julio de 2026 y expira el 30 de junio de 2027. El candidato que reciba el mayor número de votos será elegido para el mandato de cinco años, y el candidato que reciba el segundo mayor número de votos será elegido para el mandato de un año.

SE NOTIFICA

ADEMÁS que los candidatos al cargo de Fideicomisario de

la Junta de Síndicos de la Biblioteca serán nominados mediante petición. Las peticiones deben presentarse ante el Secretario del Distrito Escolar (dirección anterior), entre las 9:00 y las 17:00 horas, a más tardar el lunes 16 de marzo de 2026. Los formularios de petición pueden obtenerse del Secretario del Distrito Escolar. Cada petición debe dirigirse al Secretario del Distrito Escolar; debe indicar el nombre y la dirección del candidato; debe estar firmado por al menos veinticinco (25) votantes cualificados del Distrito y indicar la dirección de cada firmante.

SE NOTIFICA

ADEMÁS que se pueden obtener copias de un estado de cuenta de los gastos estimados de la biblioteca para el año fiscal 2026-2027 en la Biblioteca (dirección anterior) y en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar, situada en 150 Park Ave., Amityville, NY 11701, todos los días excepto sábados y domingos, a partir del 16 de marzo de 2026, entre las 9:00 y las 16:00 horas.

SE EMITE

ADEMÁS AVISO de que la Biblioteca acogerá una reunión informativa pública con el fin de debatir el presupuesto propuesto para el periodo 20262027 el 30 de marzo de 2026 a las 18:00. Se invita a todos los residentes del distrito a asistir a la Biblioteca.

SE NOTIFICA

ADEMÁS que, conforme a la sección 2014 de la Ley de Educación, se requiere el registro personal de los votantes, y ninguna persona tendrá derecho a votar en dicha reunión y elección cuyo nombre no aparezca ya en el registro de dicho

Public Notices — Your right to know

distrito escolar, o que no se registre según lo establecido posteriormente, salvo que lo dispongan las leyes del Estado de Nueva York. La inscripción está disponible en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar (dirección arriba) de lunes a viernes, de 9:00 a 16:00, hasta el 14 de abril de 2026. El registro así preparado incluye a todas las personas que se hayan presentado personalmente para su registro conforme a este documento, así como a todas las personas que hayan estado previamente registradas bajo este término para una reunión o elección anual o extraordinaria, y que hayan votado en cualquier asamblea o elección anual, celebrada o celebrada en cualquier momento dentro de los cuatro (4) años previos a la preparación del registro. Un votante cualificado es aquel que (i) es ciudadano de los Estados Unidos, (ii) tiene al menos dieciocho (18) años de edad y (iii) es residente dentro del Distrito durante un periodo de treinta (30) días previos a la reunión y elección SE NOTIFICA

ADEMÁS que las solicitudes para votos anticipados por correo o por correo pueden solicitarse en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar (dirección arriba). Las solicitudes completadas deben recibirse en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar al menos siete (7) días antes de la elección, si la papeleta se va a enviar por correo al votante, o el día antes de la elección, si la papeleta debe entregarse personalmente al votante. Las papeletas anticipadas por correo o por correo deben ser recibidas por el secretario del distrito

escolar, o en el colegio electoral de la biblioteca, a más tardar a las 17:00 horas, hora vigente, el lunes 13 de abril de 2026. Una lista de personas a las que se hayan entregado papeletas anticipadas por correo o por correo estará disponible en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar en cada uno de los cinco días previos al día de la elección, excepto sábados y domingos, y dicha lista también se publicará en el colegio electoral durante la elección.

SE DA ADEMÁS AVISO de que un votante cualificado cuya capacidad para comparecer personalmente en el colegio electoral esté sustancialmente afectada por motivos de enfermedad permanente o discapacidad física, y cuyo registro de registro haya sido marcado como "permanentemente discapacitado" por la Junta Electoral conforme a las disposiciones de la Ley de Educación, tendrá derecho a recibir una papeleta de voto por correo sin presentar solicitudes separadas para ello.

SE DA UN AVISO ADICIONAL de que los votantes militares que no estén actualmente registrados pueden solicitar registrarse como votantes cualificados. Los votantes militares que sean votantes cualificados del Distrito de la Biblioteca pueden presentar una solicitud para una papeleta militar. Los votantes militares pueden designar una preferencia para recibir un registro de votante militar, una solicitud de papeleta militar o una papeleta militar por correo, transmisión por fax o correo electrónico en su solicitud de dicho registro, solicitud de papeleta o papeleta.

Los formularios de registro de votantes militares y las solicitudes de papeleta militar deben recibirse en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar (dirección arriba) a más tardar a las 17:00 horas del viernes 20 de marzo de 2026. No se solicitará ninguna papeleta militar a menos que la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar la reciba a más tardar a las 17:00 horas del día de las elecciones.

Fechado: Amityville, Nueva York

19 de febrero de 2026

POR ORDEN DE LA JUNTA DE FIDEICOMISARIOS

DE LA BIBLIOTECA PÚBLICA DE AMITYVILLE, DEL PUEBLO DE BABYLON Y DEL PUEBLO DE BAY, SUFFOLK COUNTYOYSTERNASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK

POR SECRETARIO DEL DISTRITO DISTRITO ESCOLAR LIBRE DE AMITYVILLE UNION, MUNICIPIO DE BABYLON, CONDADO DE SUFFOLK, MUNICIPIO DE OYSTER BAY, CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK

26-44 2/25, 3/11. 25, 4/8

PUBLIC NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE FOR TAXES DUE AND UNPAID TO THE VILLAGE OF AMITYVILLE FOR THE YEAR 2025

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT WHEREAS arrears of taxes levied in the year 2025 by the Village of Amityville, charged and imposed pursuant to law, remain due and unpaid on several tracts, plots, pieces, or parcels of land, situate, lying and being in the Village of Amityville, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, and described in the following list indicating the names of those owners or occupants as the same upon the assessment roll for the said year and following said names are amounts, including tax fees, interest and charges against said properties for said year, to wit: (SEE ATTACHED LIST) AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to the powers vested in me by law, I shall on the 13th day of March, 2026 at 10:00 AM and the succeeding days until the sale is completed, sell at public auction at ten o’clock in the forenoon in the 3rd Floor Court Room located in the Village Hall at No.21 Ireland Place in the Village Hall, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, the above described tracts, plots, lots, pieces or parcels of land, until so much of each parcel shall be sold as will be sufficient to pay the tax for the year above specified, together with fees, interest and charges which may be due thereon at the time of the sale; bids shall be for an amount sufficient to pay said tax, fees, interest and charges, and where no bid shall be of such

amount, said premises shall be deemed to have been sold to and purchased by the Village. The purchasers at such sale shall pay the amount of their respective bids to the Village Clerk within ten days after the sale and upon such payment, the Clerk will give to the purchaser a certificate in writing describing the real estate purchased and the sum paid therefor. If any purchaser shall neglect or refuse to pay the amount of his bid or bids within the time prescribed, the Village Clerk may state an account such purchaser and may recover same together with costs from such purchaser, by an action brought in the name of the Village Clerk, or such Village Clerk may cancel so much of such sale to such purchaser and the parcel or parcels so sold shall be deemed to have been purchased by the Village. The owner, the occupant of, or any persons having an interest in any real estate sold for taxes to any party other than the Village itself, may redeem the same at any time prior to the filing of a Notice of Pendency of an action to foreclose the lien of such taxes or prior to the conveyance by the Village Clerk pursuant to the provisions of Section 1450 of the Real Property Tax Law, by paying to the Village Clerk for the use of the purchaser, his heirs or assigns, the sum mentioned in his certificate with the interest thereon at the rate of one percentum per month or fraction thereof, from the date of sale for which such certificate was given, together with the charges accrued at the time of such redemption, and the amount of any Village Taxes levied upon such real

estate which have been paid by such purchaser subsequent to such a sale, with interest on such amount at the rate of one half of one percentum per month, or fraction thereof, from the date of payment, where such payment of taxes was made for the purpose of protecting the lien, of the said purchaser. If said real estate shall have been bid in by, or sold to the Village, the said owner, occupant or person interested in such real estate may redeem same at any time prior to the filing of Notice of Pendency of action to foreclose the tax lien, or prior to conveyance to the Village by the Village Clerk by paying the Village Clerk the amount of such certificate with such interest together with the expenses accrued at the time of such redemption, as if a certificate for such sale has been issued to an individual. IMPORTANT.... THE NAME OF THE OWNERS SHOWN ON THIS LIST MAY NOT NECESSARILY BE THE NAMES OF THE PERSONS OWNING THE PROPERTY AT THE TIME OF THIS ADVERTISEMENT. SUCH NAMES HAVE BEEN TAKEN FROM THE ASSESSMENT ROLLS PREPARED AS OF APRIL 1, 2025 AND FREQUENTLY DIFFER FROM THE NAMES OF THE OWNERS AT THE TIME OF PUBLICATION OF THE NOTICE. IT MAY ALSO BE THAT SUCH OWNERS ARE NOMINAL ONLY AND ANOTHER PERSON IS ACTUALLY THE BENEFICIAL OWNER. DATED the 12th day of February 2026, Amityville, New York. Catherine Murdock, Village Clerk/Treasurer, Amityville, New York

TAX SALE- March 13th, 2026

26-41 2/18, 25, 3/4

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MAILROOM/ WAREHOUSE HELP Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for a FULL-TIME & PART-TIME mailroom/warehouse helper in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Forklift experience is a plus and heavy lifting is required. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $20 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

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FT & PT. Long Island Herald has IMMEDIATE openings for Printing Press Operators in Garden City. We are a busy print shop looking for motivated and reliable individuals to assist in various duties in the shop. Hours vary, so flexibility is key. Salary Ranges from $20 per hour to $30 per hour. Email resumes or contact info to careers@liherald.com

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What makes a basement a basement?‘finished’

Q. I have a basement with a bathroom and nothing else except a washer and dryer, back to back, with the sink and toilet on the other side of the wall. Everything else is unfinished, and I bought it this way. I was recently told that I need to have a permit for a finished basement or I have to remove the bathroom. I don’t want either of those options, but I’m being told I will be issued a violation, because the building department sent me a notice about this. I consulted an architect, who started to explain all the rules, but I need a second opinion. What should I do if I just want the bathroom and don’t want to finish everything else?

A. Sorry to disappoint you, but your building department has interpreted that your bathroom in a basement is leading to habitable use, meaning that the basement is more than just a place to store boxes and other household items. The same is true of basements that have a fireplace or a mattress-and-night-table setup. Even occasional use by a houseguest puts you in the category of a “finished” basement.

What the consultant architect may have told you is that you’ll either have to remove the bathroom, with a permit for the demolition (since your building department knows about the condition) and a separate plumbing permit to have the capping of pipes inspected, or you’ll need a lot of other items, at greater expense. Your spaces will need to meet the ceiling height requirement of 80 inches from floor to finished ceiling, or anything constricting someone from walking around, such as a steam pipe or built soffit. If you don’t have 80 inches (6 feet 8 inches), then the rest of what you do will also be important to evaluate, since your plans and application paperwork will be on hold until the requirement is appealed through a separate codeappeal process, and more paperwork will need to be submitted to the state for a code compliance variance. This means you will have to request to vary or be allowed an exception after evaluation by a review board at the state level.

Either way, a finished basement will require a second means to escape in an emergency. This can be accomplished with a larger window, with an opening no higher than 44 inches from the floor and at least 5.7 square feet of clear opening, a minimum of 24 inches in height and 20 inches in width. A window that is only 20 inches by 24 inches would not meet the requirement, however. Those are just minimums for each dimension.

The escape well has to be a minimum of 9 square feet of outside floor area, and must at least have a ladder for climbing up and away. You could also have a door and stairwell, with proper drainage, at even greater expense. There’s more, so wait until next week.

to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

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OpiniOns Stephen Miller’s politics of sabotage

Every administration has its ideologues. Every president has advisers who translate impulse into policy. But once in a while, a single figure emerges whose real work is not governance but sabotage — the deliberate narrowing of civic life.

In Donald Trump’s White House, that figure is Stephen Miller.

Miller is often described as the architect of Trump’s immigration agenda.

That may be true, but it’s incomplete. Immigration is simply the most visible stage on which Miller operates. The deeper project is broader and more corrosive: a politics designed to make Americans afraid — not only of immigrants, but of one another, and of acting freely in public life.

Miller’s real architecture isn’t just about who gets in. It’s about what kind of country we become.

The through-line is intimidation. The point isn’t merely enforcement but atmosphere: to show that the state can reach into your life suddenly, harshly,

without apology. To make people think twice before speaking, gathering, helping or dissenting. To shrink civic space until citizenship itself begins to feel conditional. In such a climate, obedience becomes the safest form of participation, and democracy begins to feel like a risk.

That’s why Miller matters. He isn’t simply a policy adviser. He is both symptom and accelerant — a product of a political sickness and one of its most effective carriers.

The sickness is the belief that democracy is too messy, pluralism too dangerous, compassion too soft. Miller gives that belief bureaucratic form.

i

done profound damage. And once that atmosphere is established, the most vulnerable are always the first to suffer the worst of it.

n a Millershaped America, protest would be treated as menace.

Miller’s defenders characterize him as “tough.” But toughness isn’t the same as callousness. A serious country can enforce laws without turning the machinery of government into an engine of humiliation. Miller’s politics depend on a story: that America is perpetually under siege, that outsiders are threats, that pluralism is weakness, that empathy is naïveté.

tions would be staffed by loyalty, not expertise; protest would be treated as menace; law would be less a shield than a club; and citizenship would be a conditional permit, not a shared inheritance. It’s tempting, and comforting, to say, “The Constitution will save us.” It won’t. Constitutions don’t rescue republics by themselves. They are frameworks, not force fields. They depend on officials who honor them, courts that enforce them, legislators who defend their authority, and citizens who refuse to be intimidated into silence.

It’s not a secret that his fingerprints are on some of the harshest immigration measures of the last decade, including family separation at the southern border — a policy widely condemned because it treats children not as human beings, but as instruments of deterrence. Whatever you believe about border control, using suffering as a message is a show of cruelty, not strength.

But the deeper lesson is about power. A government that can make ordinary people afraid — afraid to speak, gather, help or dissent — has already

Civil rights organizations have raised alarms for years about Miller’s proximity to white nationalist rhetoric. The Southern Poverty Law Center took the extraordinary step of listing him in its extremist files. That is not a marginal controversy; it goes to the moral and ideological foundations of the policies he designs. Whether you accept every charge or not, the pattern is difficult to miss: Miller’s governing worldview is built on suspicion — of difference, of openness, of the very idea of a shared civic “we.”

In a Miller-shaped America, the safest posture would be silence; institu-

The danger of Stephen Miller’s politics is that they treat laws not as a restraint but as an instrument — something to stretch, weaponize and exhaust until rights feel theoretical and the public stops believing that resistance matters.

So the question isn’t whether the Constitution can save us. The question is whether Americans will still insist on the constitutional order itself: limits on power, equal citizenship, lawful process, and a public life in which fear isn’t the organizing principle.

Miller’s project runs in the other direction. And if it succeeds, no piece of parchment will protect us.

Michael Blitz is professor emeritus of interdisciplinary studies at the City University of New York’s John Jay College of Criminal Justice.

The challenge of celebrating Black History Month

On Feb. 5, not long after Black History Month began, President Trump’s Truth Social account posted a video depicting former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama as apes. In response to criticism from Republicans, the video was removed the next day, but with no apology from the president.

That’s the immediate context in which Black History Month takes place, but it’s been an entire year since the last celebration of this month, during which the Trump administration has advanced white supremacy and moved aggressively to undermine America’s longstanding commitment to diversity. The administration’s support for white supremacy isn’t new. In November 2019, in Trump’s first term, the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights called for the firing of Trump adviser Stephen Miller, stating, “Stephen Miller represents white supremacy, violent extremism, and hate — all ideologies that are antithetical to

the fundamental values that guide our democracy. Allowing him to remain a White House advisor is a betrayal of our national ideals of justice, inclusion, and fairness.”

Yet in the second Trump administration, Miller has even more power. As Ashley Parker, of the Atlantic, told NPR recently, “He’s incredibly powerful. Steve Bannon and other people jokingly call him the prime minister.”

The Trump government has undermined our country’s commitment to diversity.

Miller is perhaps best known, as NPR reports, as “a chief architect of the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown.” That crackdown has generated intense public opposition due to the killings in Minneapolis of two American citizens with no criminal records by ICE officers. Because ICE is part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, it ironically shares the department’s mission to “safeguard the American people.” That irony is not lost on Americans, and the public response to those two deaths has echoed the outcry after the 2020 killing of George Floyd by Minneapolis police officers.

The irony of the administration continues, as the White House acts to ensure that America’s schools instill, in the words of Executive Order 14190, “a

patriotic admiration for our incredible Nation and the values for which we stand” — while detaining children through ICE crackdowns at accelerating rates. As MS NOW reports, “Recent independent analysis by the Marshall Project shows that the number of children held by Immigration and Customs Enforcement has skyrocketed in Trump’s second term — from an average of about 25 children detained per day during the final 16 months of Biden’s presidency to about 170 children per day under Trump.” On some days, the analysis found, “ICE held 400 children or more.”

What values, exactly, are those detained children learning at the hands of the administration? What values are all children learning as they witness detentions of other children, day care workers and young parents? These are actions of cruelty, not respect for human life and liberty. They are acts of lawlessness, not patriotism.

Now the administration proposes to change the way we vote in America. As The New York Times reports, “President Trump has repeatedly suggested that he wants the Republican-led federal government to ‘nationalize,’ or ‘take over,’

the running of elections.” His allies in Congress are simultaneously advancing legislation — the Make Elections Great Again, or MEGA, Act — that would make voting more difficult. These proposals completely ignore the fact that elections in the United States are free and fair.

As the Brennan Center for Justice writes, “In 2025, a new threat to free and fair elections emerged: the federal government. Since day one of his second term, the Trump administration has attempted to rewrite election rules to burden voters and usurp control of election systems, targeted and threatened election officials and others who keep elections free and fair, supported people who undermine election administration, and retreated from the federal government’s role of protecting voters and the electoral process.”

Nationalizing state elections is blatantly unconstitutional, and the legislative actions would make voting more difficult. That is exactly what this White House and its allies want to achieve.

As Black History Month continues, and in the months and years ahead, ERASE Racism will be championing inclusiveness, fairness and justice for all.

Elaine Gross is founder and president emerita of ERASE Racism, a regional civil rights organization based on Long Island.

opinions Another baseball season full of hope

The arrival of spring training, and the anticipation of another baseball season, brings back great memories. My earliest baseball memories date back to the early 1950s and the Brooklyn Dodgers, the famed “Boys of Summer,” in what is now regarded as the sport’s Golden Age. Baseball was the unquestioned national pastime, and New York’s Yankees, Dodgers and Giants were the dominant teams.

From 1947 to 1956, the Yankees won eight league pennants, the Dodgers six and the Giants two.

For nine of those 10 seasons, at least one World Series teams was from New York, and for eight years, both teams were. That was a true monopoly of excellence.

The Dodgers teams of my youth included such Hall of Famer players as Jackie Robinson, Pee Wee Reese, Roy Campanella, Duke Snider and Gil Hodges. There was nothing better than sitting in the stands at Ebbets Field, watching these stars excel. (Tickets for bleacher seats cost 75 cents!) As mighty as the

Dodgers were, however, the Yankees, led by legendary stars like Mickey Mantle, Yogi Berra and Whitey Ford, prevailed in five of the teams’ six World Series encounters.

And then, in 1957, Dodgers owner Walter O’Malley announced the unthinkable: He would move the Dodgers from Brooklyn to Los Angeles the following year, and the Giants would go to San Francisco. My childhood had come to a crashing halt. National League baseball would be gone from New York.

Just one example: thousands of area kids looking forward to Little League.

My final goodbye to the Dodgers would come on Sept. 22, 1957, when I went to their final home day game at Ebbets Field. Brooklyn beat the Phillies, 7-3, and Duke Snider hit two home runs, but that was small consolation. Dodgers baseball in New York, and my years of sports innocence, were behind me. National League baseball didn’t return to New York until the Mets arrived in 1962. They were an expansion team, which meant they were composed of players others teams didn’t want. There were some rough, lean years, but to Mets fans, it didn’t matter. They rallied behind the team, and after seven seasons, and many losses, the 1969 Mira-

cle Mets, led by their manager, Dodgers legend Gil Hodges, won the World Series in a never-to-be-forgotten triumph over the heavily favored Baltimore Orioles. The Mets captured the Series again in 1986, defeating the Red Sox in a memorable seven-game struggle. There have been several good runs since then that fell just short, including a World Series defeat to Kansas City in 2015 and, most recently, a League Championship Series loss to the Dodgers in 2024. Now the Mets face the 2026 season having decided to go forward without their all-time leading home run hitter, Pete Alonso, and star relief pitcher Edwin Diaz, as well as proven veterans Brandon Nimmo and Jeff McNeil. Their core four are gone. For Mets fans, spring training will be filled with questions and unknown answers.

I know that baseball has changed dramatically since years ago. There are almost twice as many teams now as there were then; players move from team to team, season to season; and teams regularly play inter-league games. As well, the Super Bowl has surpassed the World Series in public attention, and sports such as hockey and bas-

ketball crowd the calendar, playing well into the baseball season.

But still, that sense of anticipation remains. There is something about the fresh spring air and the crack of the bat that brings our attention back to the baseball diamond. The distances from the pitcher’s mound to home plate, and between the bases, remain the same, as do ball and strike counts. And, especially on Long Island, many thousands of kids are looking forward to playing Little League baseball in a new season, when, as always, their parents and grandparents will be in the stands, cheering them on. They’ll create new memories that, in years to come, they’ll pass on to their children and grandchildren.

No matter the rule changes or league realignments, baseball will remain unchanged as an essential component of the American fabric. Almost 75 years ago, the renowned cultural historian Jacques Barzun famously proclaimed, “Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball.” That is as true today as it was then, and I believe it will be true for generations to come.

Play ball!

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

Ed Ra’s new post is good for Long Island

Having spent 23 years of my life in the State Assembly, I keep close contact with members and monitor the progress of significant legislation. I make it a point to call individual members to encourage them to take action on proposals that are good for Long Island. Which is why I was thrilled that Republican Assemblyman Ed Ra was chosen as minority leader earlier this month, in a unanimous vote.

Living as a bipartisan person, I have been supportive of Ra in his many roles as an elected official. During his 10 years in office he has been a proactive legislator, proposing laws focusing affordability, antisemitism, workforce development and controlling state costs. I was especially pleased when he became the ranking minority member of the Ways and Means Committee.

I had the good fortune to chair that

committee for 10-plus years, and have great respect for committee members who pay attention to pending laws and ask questions. Ra has been a diligent member of the committee, and he has kept the majority members on their toes. Ways and Means is the most important committee in the Assembly, and it desperately needs members who keep an eye on the 7,000plus bills that are sent to it each year.

He’s worked hard to become the Assembly’s Republican minority leader.

Ra is the third Assembly member from Long Island in my career who has held the title of minority leader. The late Assembly members Perry B. Duryea and Jack Kingston also held that job. Duryea eventually became the speaker, and holding the minority post was a springboard to the top job. I know for a fact that Ra didn’t get the leadership job without a lot of preparation, forging coalitions to win the support of the minority caucus.

I doubt that even the Republican leaders on Long Island fully understand what it took for Ra to get his new job. Over the years he has taken on all of the

thankless jobs that most members do not covet. He has been involved in reviewing all of the bills that affect the Island, and for a few years he acted as the Republican floor leader, organizing debates on bills advanced by the majority. It’s the job of minority members to craft credible arguments opposing majority legislation.

There’s a separate issue that most of the Albany establishment doesn’t understand. The Assembly’s Republican membership is dominated by upstate legislators. They tend to be anti-downstate, and want all of the key jobs for their delegation. If you talk to an upstate Republican member, don’t be surprised if he or she is anti-Long Island. They are jealous of the attention Long Island gets, and many think negatively about the downstate region in general.

When the previous minority leader, Will Barclay, an upstater, announced that he wouldn’t seek re-election this year, the upstaters immediately began to caucus to support one of their own to

keep the job in their region. At the same time, Ra had to move quickly to win a majority of the conference. That backroom stuff happens in any type of legislative body, and it takes political smarts to pull it off.

Why make a fuss about the election of an assemblyman who’s in the minority party? We’re a very big island, with multiple needs and demands. We need all the voices we can get to speak out for the bi-county area. New York City legislators have a strong voice on a variety of issues, and the Island has to fight for recognition when the dollars are being disbursed and laws are passing that help other areas of the state.

Last year I wrote a column singling out Democratic Assemblywoman Mickey Solages and Ra for their hard work in Albany. I was pleased then and now that Ra has advanced in his party leadership. Solages is a rising star in the Democratic Party, and I’m happy that Ra is now a part of the four-way leadership.

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

Long Island students need news literacy

on Long Island, where school boards debate curriculum priorities and districts navigate tight budgets, one subject can no longer be treated as optional: media literacy.

Across Nassau and Suffolk counties, students scroll through a relentless stream of headlines, commentary and viral content, frequently without formal instruction on how to tell the difference between verified reporting and misinformation.

In an era when misinformation travels faster than facts and algorithms reward outrage over accuracy, the future of journalism and civic trust hinges on what young people understand about news.

A November 2025 study from the News Literacy Project makes the stakes unmistakably clear: Teenagers are not rejecting journalism outright, but they are struggling to distinguish it from everything else crowding their feeds.

The nationwide study builds on a troubling News Literacy Project 2024 finding that 45 percent of teens believed journalists harmed democracy. But the new research goes further, examining not just skepticism but the roots of distrust — and the confusion at its core.

Teens often lump professional reporting, partisan commentary and outright online misinformation into a single category: “news.” When everything looks the same, nothing earns trust.

However, there is a mandate for action. An overwhelming 94 percent of teens said news or media literacy should

be part of their education. They are not tuning out because they don’t care. They are asking for help.

The problem is access. Only 39 percent of students reported receiving any media literacy instruction during the prior school year. More than six in 10 teens are left to decode a complex information ecosystem by themselves. They scroll through algorithm-driven headlines, influencer commentary masquerading as reporting and viral misinformation engineered for emotional impact — often without being taught how to verify a claim or evaluate a source.

That gap isn’t just an educational oversight. It is a civic vulnerability.

According to Donnell Probst, executive director of the National Association for Media Literacy Education, the most effective time to teach these skills is early, before beliefs harden and misinformation calcifies into identity.

Encouragingly, instruction works. Students who had lessons in media literacy were more likely to seek out news, and reported higher levels of trust in journalists. This is measurable impact backed by research.

Long Island school districts should take note.

Across Nassau and Suffolk counties, some schools offer journalism electives or student newspapers. Others offer none. According to a 2022 survey by Baruch College, 73 percent of New York City public schools lacked student newspapers — with access concentrated in private and selective schools. The same inequities often surface on Long Island,

where opportunities vary widely by district.

The decline of school newspapers and journalism classes compounds the media literacy crisis. These programs teach students what real journalism requires: cultivating sources, verifying facts, and asking tough follow-up questions.

If we want a generation that values journalism, we must first ensure that it understands journalism. This isn’t a “kids these days” problem. It is a larger one — and it is also a business imperative for local news organizations across Long Island. If the next generation cannot differentiate between a reported investigation and a viral conspiracy thread, it will not subscribe to, support or defend professional journalism.

Doubling down on media literacy in school curriculums is no longer optional. It should be embedded across grade levels, integrated into English and social studies classes and reinforced through experiential learning like student newsrooms. Policymakers should treat media literacy as foundational civic infrastructure, not a niche elective.

News organizations on Long Island must also step forward and partner with schools, open newsrooms, support media literacy initiatives and provide mentorship and transparency about how reporting is done.

The answer isn’t louder defenses of journalism, but deeper public understanding — teaching media literacy so people can recognize misinformation and think critically for themselves.

Building trust in water service through transparency

Trust is one of the most essential resources we manage. While the Suffolk County Water Authority is tasked with the immense responsibility of providing high-quality drinking water to 1.2 million residents, our technical expertise means little if our customers don’t feel confident in the product coming out of their taps. When transparency is lacking, trust is easily shaken. Without clear information, uncertainty grows, and people may begin to seek less-reliable sources for their water needs. That’s why I have made transparency a cornerstone of our operations. I believe that by setting clear goals and providing the public with the metrics to hold us accountable, we build a foundation of confidence that stands up to any standard.

Our commitment to transparency starts with the water itself. We don’t just meet regulatory requirements; we consistently surpass them. We test our

water more frequently than required by law, and we screen for approximately 250 more compounds than state and federal regulations mandate. The key to our success? Every one of the tests we run, and all of the results, are available to the public and, of course, to our regulators. Water suppliers can’t pick and choose which test results they want the public to see.

present it exactly as it is, allowing you to make your own informed judgments. It also helps customers identify problems with their own internal plumbing when the data they find at the tap doesn’t match the results in their report.

We don’t want people turning to less-reliable sources for their water needs.

Data is only useful if it is accessible. Our water quality reports provide testing data that covers large service areas. Though this meets legal requirements, we recognize that our customers want more than a “general idea” — they want to know exactly what’s in the water coming from their tap.

This led to the development of our My Water Quality tool. This platform provides a level of granular detail that is virtually unprecedented for a groundwater supplier in the United States. By entering an address, a customer can see a detailed report of the testing results for the specific wells serving their home.

We don’t shy away from this data; we

Transparency also means being clear about where we’re going. In early 2023 we launched Strategic Plan 2030, a comprehensive roadmap that outlines our organizational goals through the end of the decade. By making this plan public, we are doing more than just providing internal direction; we are letting you, our customers, know exactly what our priorities are — whether it’s new infrastructure, emerging contaminant treatment or fiscal responsibility. This serves as a public scorecard, ensuring that our long-term vision is aligned with the expectations of the customers we serve.

Part of being a successful organization is also being able to adjust when needed within our Strategic Business Plan. This year, we will add new elements as priorities and regulations change.

Finally, true transparency must begin from within. Our nearly 600 employees are the face of SCWA and our best ambassadors in the community. For them to be effective, they must be wellinformed and engaged. Internal transparency is vital for morale and organizational health. By breaking down silos and ensuring information flows freely, we eliminate rumors and empower our staff. We achieve this through weekly CEO updates and dynamic internal notice boards that provide daily insights into our organization.

I recently delivered my second annual State of the Authority address to our staff. This presentation is designed to give every employee a candid look at our accomplishments over the past year and a realistic preview of the challenges and goals ahead. As a leader, I believe it is my responsibility to set a standard of openness.

At the Suffolk County Water Authority, we don’t just want to provide you with water; we want to provide you with peace of mind. By remaining transparent in our testing, our planning and our internal culture, we ensure that the trust you place in us is earned every day. Jeff Szabo is chief executive officer of the Suffolk County Water Authority.

Your opinion Matters

Your opinion Matters

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.

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 lettters to execeditor@liherald.com

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

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

Be heard. Be part of the conversation.

Be heard. Be part of the conversation.

Be heard. Be part of the conversation.