Amityville Herald 03_04_2026

BRAVING THE ELEMENTS - AND THE FLAMES

Village, Town dig out after blizzard hits LI

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

A powerful blizzard swept across Babylon Town and surrounding villages on Feb. 22–23, leaving behind heavy snow, ice, strong winds and widespread disruptions. The storm, which forecasters had warned could bring “historic” snowfall, dumped 20 to 23 inches in many communities, followed by another 2 to 3 inches on Feb. 25, with isolated areas reporting even higher totals.

Snow began falling late Sunday morning and intensified overnight, combined with gusts up to 40 mph that reduced visibility and created treacherous driving conditions. Local authorities urged residents to stay home and avoid travel, and school districts announced closures for Monday and Tuesday.

The blizzard caused widespread power outages, primarily out East, leaving homes and businesses without electricity. Utility crews worked through the night to restore service.

Emergency services reported numerous accidents on snow- and ice-covered

roads. The Long Island Rail Road and major bus lines operated on limited schedules, and flights at Long Island MacArthur Airport and JFK experienced significant delays or cancellations.

Locally, employees from Amityville Village and the Town of Babylon worked to open roads, particularly for emergency vehicles, and then clear them for regular traffic as schools reopened and people headed back to work.

“It has been almost 20 years since we have had to deal with some 20-odd inches of snow,” said Amityville Village Mayor Michael O’Neill, explaining the challenges village employees faced. “The problem was more volume than anything else.”

O’Neill said the village maintains 38 miles of roads and that employees logged 600 man-hours from Sunday evening through Monday, using 75 tons of sand and salt.

“I think they did a phenomenal job and people have said to me that when they leave the Village and head into other communities they see just how good a job our DPW workers have done.”

Church shelters victims of West Babylon fire

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

As flames tore through the Fairfield Suburbia Gardens complex in West Babylon Tuesday night, February 24, Our Lady of Grace Roman Catholic Church opened its doors to displaced residents seeking warmth and shelter and to firefighters who were able to set up command centers there.

Within minutes of the evacuation, parish staff and volunteers transformed church space into an emergency refuge, offering residents a place to sit and regroup amid bitter cold temperatures and uncertainty.

“I knew immediately that it was the right thing to do,” said Brian Miller, a dea-

con at Our Lady of Grace who also serves as chaplain and a member of the West Babylon Fire Department. “I knew immediately it was the Christian thing to do.” The North Amityville Fire Company responded, and Amityviile sent an ambulance. Babylon, Lindenhurst, North Lindenhurst, Deer Park, and West Islip Fire Departments, and the East Farmingdale, and North Babylon Fire Companies. Wyandanch-Wheatley Heights Ambulance Corps also responded with their rehab equipment and Babylon Central Fire Alarm responded with their Mobile Command unit.

The blaze broke out at the complex on Great East Neck Road shortly before 7:30

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Digging out of the blizzard of 2026 in Babylon

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The work involved clearing a lane through most streets for fire and emergency vehicles, followed by a second effort to widen and fully clear the roadway.

Along Route 110 and Broadway, snow was pushed to the center of the road, as has been the village’s policy for years. On Tuesday night, when traffic was lighter, crews cleared the piles from the center of Broadway, making the roadway more accessible.

“It was fortunate that during the overnight from Sunday to Monday, we had no emergency calls,” said O’Neill. “On Monday we had five calls, but the three-legged stool—our police department of public works and fire department—were in constant contact with each other and kept everyone safe.”

West Babylon resident Clare Hayduscko commended the Town of Babylon for its efforts during the snowstorm.

“When I looked out, I was surprised, the streets were actually clean,” she said.

Babylon Town Supervisor Richard Schaffer said that, for the most part, the Department of Public Works and the independent plow operators it hired did a good job.

“We have to take into account that we have not had this much snow in more than a decade and that many of the plow operators we hired are younger and never worked under these conditions before,” he said.

At a recent Town Board meeting, one resident said he and his neighbors were aware of the limited experience of some

plow operators.

“I didn’t see a truck ‘til Tuesday,” said Michael J. Funfgeld of North Babylon. “They made a quick pass Sunday night but by Monday and Tuesday people could not go to work.”

Schaffer acknowledged the concerns, saying, “we have to do a little better.”

He added that one of the issues adding to the difficulty of clearing the streets Sunday into Monday was that the town had to call plow operators in at about 3 a.m., as weather conditions made it too dangerous for them to remain out there driving through streets when visibility was almost zero.

Local fire departments faced challenges as well. Unsure whether volunteers would be able to make it to the firehouses from their homes to answer calls, they maintained standby crews who staffed stations from Sunday afternoon to Monday night.

Amityville Village Fire chief Stephen Juliano said the department was on standby for approximately 30 hours beginning Sunday night. Volunteers took alternating shifts and the department reported it handled about ten alarms during the blizzard, including a boathouse collapse. He thanked all the volunteers—and their families—who dedicated their time and energy during this blizzard.

“We are now looking forward to spring,” he said.

“We had about 70 people on standby including five fire crews, three EMS crews and a paramedic,” said West Babylon Fire Chief William Allen.

Firefighters often had to clear paths to

residents’ front doors when called to emergencies to allow ingress and egress, and in some cases cleared snow and ice from around fire hydrants.

“One of our priorities was to ensure that paramedics were able to get safely into a home and then be able to safely navigate out of the home and to an ambulance with a stretcher,” said Allen.

Despite the challenges, communities came together to assist those in need. Lo-

cal fire departments, police and volunteer organizations conducted welfare checks on elderly and vulnerable residents. Many neighbors helped clear driveways, sidewalks and essential access routes.

The storm tapered off by Monday evening, with cold temperatures continuing through midweek. On Wednesday, Long Islanders woke up to another 3 inches of snow— a clear message from Mother Nature that she was not done with winter yet.

OLG opens doors to fire victims

p.m. Fire officials said the fire was in the rear portion of the complex, limiting access for first-arriving units, who confirmed a working fire and requested mutual aid.

As crews stretched hose lines to battle the flames, they were hampered in their efforts by having to dig out snow covered hydrants. Firefighters went door-to-door to evacuate residents safely. Arson investigators were requested to the scene before the investigation was turned over to the Town of Babylon Fire Marshal’s office, which confirmed it is investigating the cause of the blaze but declined further comment.

Fire officials said two second-story apartments were extensively damaged and 10 others sustained smoke and water damage.

The American Red Cross assisted 19 adults and two children in securing tempo-

rary shelter, while other residents went to stay with family and friends.

A firefighter and two residents sustained minor injuries in the blaze, which displaced about 50 residents, according to officials.

Meanwhile fire officials are reminding residents to make an effort to ensure that fire hydrants in their communities are clear of snow and visible. “If we can’t see them, we can’t hook up the hoses and get the water we need to put out the fire,” said Deer Park Fire Chief Robert Macaluso. Miller said the displaced residents were understandably upset, and volunteers did what they could to ease fears and anxiety. The Red Cross brought in water and snacks and the West Babylon Fire Chief ordered pizza for the residents.

“We are happy that we could be there for them and respond,” he said.

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Ansanelli runs unopposed in March 18 special election

Amityville Village trustee candidate seeks one-year term

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherld.com

Amityville Village Trustee Adam Ansanelli is running unopposed in a special election March 18 to fill the remainder of Mayor Michael O’Neill’s former board seat.

Ansanelli was appointed to the Village Board last year after O’Neill was elected mayor in April 2025. The seat carries a oneyear term.

No candidate has filed to run against Ansanelli, and he will be the only name on the ballot. The election is Wednesday, March 18. Polls will be open from [insert time] to [insert time].

Ansanelli said he has long been active in community groups and events and has enjoyed serving in an elected role.

“I enjoy working with people in different groups, different backgrounds and political views,” Ansanelli said of his decision to seek election.

A lifelong Amityville resident, Ansanelli attended Grace Day School and Chaminade High School. He earned his law degree Touro Law School. He is married and he and his wife have three children.

He said one of his priorities has been maintaining the character of the village, including its downtown and its waterfront along the Great South Bay.

“Maintaining the health of the Bay starts with maintaining our rivers, lakes and ponds which feed into it,” Ansanelli said. He is currently involved in environmental projects at the Delano Preserve, Peterkin Park and Avon Lake, working with the state Department of Environmental Conservation and other agencies.

One focus is eliminating parrotfeather, an invasive aquatic plant that can choke local waterways. The plant has been identified in portions of Avon Lake and the Delano Preserve, and the village is working with the DEC on removal efforts.

“This is a big project but if let undone, parrot feather can take over the entire preserve and Avon Lake,” Ansanelli said. “It’s very important that we take a proactive approach now.”

The Village has scheduled a major

cleanup operation for Delano Preserve on April 11.

Ansanelli also cited support for small businesses as a priority. A small business owner himself and a member of the Amityville Chamber of Commerce, he said he understands the challenges business owners face and their role in maintaining the village’s character.

He pointed to ongoing downtown revitalization efforts, including traffic calming measures, updated branding and signage, parking improvements and the village’s façade improvement program. Those initiatives are part of a broader Downtown Revitalization Initiative supported in part by a $10 million state grant. They have been moving forward, though slowly, for several years.

“These things take time,” Ansanelli said, noting that the Village must work with the state and numerous agencies on these plans. He added that the village will continue updating residents and business owners as projects move forward.

Government transparency is also important, he said, crediting O’Neill’s regular “Mayor’s Message” updates for keeping residents informed.

Ansanelli faced criticism on social media for contributing to New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s campaign. He said national and state politics should not factor into a village election.

“What is nice about the Village is that we don’t get involved in national politics; I ask people to vote for me based on what I have done and my voting record,”

Ansanelli said.

He addressed further social media criticism for removing negative comments on his election Facebook page, saying: “Why should I allow someone to hijack my Facebook page and post negative comments about me for their benefit?”

In the weeks leading up to the election, Ansanelli said he plans to continue meeting residents and discussing their concerns, which are a focus of his campaign and his work as a Trustee. And he’s urging people to head to the polls on March 18.

“I am a big proponent of getting out the vote, contested or uncontested,” he said. “That’s always important.”

Ready for Bonko? March 21

The Amityville Fire Department Chemical Hose Co. #3 will be hosting a game of Bonko with dinner and drinks on March 21 at the Amityville Fire House. There will be cash game prizes and raffles. Cocktails are at 7 p.m. and dinner is at 7:30 p.m.

To purchase your tickets, please mail players name (s), address and phone number to Ex-Chief Charles Scudlo at 75

Hamilton St., Amityville, NY 11701 with check(s) of $85 per couple. Please include the names of all players. Tickets for cash raffle are available for $20 each. Please make check(s) payable to Chemical Hose Co. #3.

The Amityville Fire House is located at 55 West Oak St., Amityville.

For more information, please call (631) 691-9081.

Amityville Booster Club expands community support for student-athletes

By NICO SCARLATOS Correspondent

The Amityville Booster Club, a community-based organization supporting local school sports programs, has grown steadily since expanding opportunities for student-athletes across the district.

Founded by a small group of wrestling parents, the club held its first fundraiser— a well-attended event at Carney’s in Amityville—in December of 2023 and now supports multiple athletic programs, including wrestling, football and lacrosse. Its mission, according to President Juan Leon, is to provide student-athletes with opportunities beyond what school funding alone can offer.

“This started out with a handful of parents from the wrestling team who wanted to get involved,” Leon explained.

Leon, who also serves as a member of the Amityville Board of Education and has two children in the district — including a son graduating this year who wrestles — said parent involvement has been central to the club’s growth.

“We are very transparent about how we are doing financially,” he said. “We let the parents know how much we spend, and that creates a great deal of trust.”

That transparency has helped the organization expand each year, allowing it to provide additional resources and support to more teams.

Students also play an active role in the club’s efforts. Lluvla Melgar-Nieto, an 11th grader and member of the National Honor Society, said volunteering helps students stay connected to the community.

“We like to take any opportunity we can to volunteer in community service because it really helps allow us to be more in touch with the community,” Melgar-Nieto said. She said the experience has also helped her grow personally and academically.

“I feel like it builds character for us. Being involved with booster clubs has helped me build my resume,” she said. “It’s a great way to get involved. Speaking from experience, it’s a super fun time.”

Marielys Borges, also an 11th grader who is graduating a year early, said volunteering has created lasting memories.

“I just love being a part of events like these,” Borges said. “Not only is it super fun being with my friends, but also helping out here is so awesome.”

“It feels amazing to be a part of a group like this. After I leave, I’ll always remember the fact that I got to play a role in Amityville in a positive way,” she said.

She encouraged other students to participate before graduating.

“Go to as many events as you can before you graduate because it’s so fun.”

For more information call 516-225-9414 or email amityvilleboosterclub.@gmail. com. You can also go online to amityvilleboosterclub.com

Man killed, woman injured in MVA in Amityville

A pedestrian was killed and another injured after being struck by a car and then a bus at Broadway and West Oak Street on Feb. 20, Amityville Village police said.

Shortly afterward, a Suffolk County Transit bus, driven by Ricardo Jimenez of Port Washington, also making a left turn onto Broadway, struck the pedestrians as they lay on the ground.

At about 8:10 p.m., a vehicle traveling east on West Oak Street attempted a left turn onto Broadway when it struck two pedestrians standing on the northwest corner, police said. The pedestrians fell to the ground.

The driver of the SUV, later identified as Juanat Scott of River Street in Massapequa, pulled over, police said.

Pablo Serrano of Woodside was killed. Claralee Corea of Brooklyn was injured and taken to Good Samaritan Hospital with minor injuries, police said.

Amityville Village police and Amityville Fire Department paramedics responded to the scene. Suffolk County Crime Scene units and First Squad detectives took over the investigation.

Man arrested for

selling stolen vehicle

Suffolk County Police arrested a man for selling a stolen pickup truck in North Lindenhurst in November. Police gave this account: Yuriy Koghuch utilized social media to sell a 2023 Ford F150 for $30,000 to a North Lindenhurst resident on November 12, 20925. When the woman went to register the vehicle, she was told it was stolen. The vehicle was reported stolen in Alabama on October 5, 2025.

Following an investigation by Property Auto Crime Unit detectives, Koghuch was arrested in Brooklyn on February 19.

Koghuch, 37, of Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania, was charged with Grand Larceny 3rd Degree and was arraigned at First District Court in Central Islip. Detectives are asking anyone who believes they are a victim of Koghuch to call Property Auto Crime Unit detectives at 631-852-6429.

CRIME WATCH

DRIVING WHILE INTOXICATED/IMPAIRED

Daniel B. McGovern, 36, of Marshall St., Massapequa; Richard Carey, 62, of Bayview Rd., Amityville; David Carillo Ayala, 59, of 62 Prospect Dr., Brentwood; Ricardo Hernandez, 56, of 1689 E. 3 Ave., North Bay Shore; William Martinez, 49, of 94 30 St., Copiague; Yusuf Guray, 23, of 214 Tremont Rd., Lindenhurst.

GRAND LARCENY

Selmy Zelayaduarte, 36, of 45 Cabota Ave., Copiague; Yuriy Koghuch, 38, of 123 Cobblewood Dr., Mount Pocono, Pa.,

Oral Durloo, 32, of 1515 Pennsylvania Ave., Brooklyn; Brandon Nairne, 32, of 16322 Claude Ave., Jamaica. Petit Larceny: John Rea, 34, of 3 Conde La., Massapequa; Elizabeth Moposita, 35, of 45 Chester St., Breezy Point. OPERATORS LEAVE SCENE OF ACCIDENT

Reynalso Meade, 23, of 172 Weir St., Hempstead; Milton Argueta Parada, 38, of 50 Hilliard Ave., Central Islip. PETIT LARCENY

George White, 56, of Broadway, Amityville.

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.

cjames@liherald.com

Camp has become a staple of the summer season. Each year, millions of children, youth and adults head to the hills, lakes, valleys, and parks to participate in the time-honored tradition of camp. And, while most people easily conjure up images of campfires and canoes, there is a lot more to the camp experience. Here are some things you may not have known about the camp experience, courtesy of American Camp Association.

Camp is older than dirt, almost literally Started in 1861, the camp experience turned an impressive 150 years young in 2011. The secret behind the longevity? “Camps are adapting to meet the needs of today’s campers,” says Tom Rosenberg, formr president/CEO of the American Camp Association.“At the same time, the impact camp has on campers, the lifechanging experience, has remained after all these years.”

Camp is worth its weight in gold, and then some!

The camp experience is life-changing –developing friendships and memories that last well beyond the final campfire. And, there is a camp for literally every budget. Often camps offer special pricing or financial assistance, and some camp experiences qualify for tax credits or for payment with pre-

Green is “zen.”

Research shows that first-hand experience with nature, like those at camp, reduce stress in children and help them better handle stress in

the future. In addition to teaching children how to be good stewards of the environment, camps are teaching children how to enjoy the world around them and take a minute to breathe deep and feel the nature, which ultimately teaches them how to de-stress the natural way.

Mommies and Daddies do it too.

Camp is not just for children and youth. There are family camp experiences, and camps for single adults, senior adults, and any adult that wants to relax and enjoy all camp has to offer. Adults benefit from the same sense of community, authentic relationships, and selfdiscovery that children do. Camp is an excellent vacation option, allowing adults to try a variety of new activities in a safe and fun environment.

Try this on for size!

Camp is a great place to try new activities and hobbies. Afraid of rock walls? According to ACA research, 74 percent of campers reported that they tried new activities at camp that they were afraid to do at first. And, those activities often leave lasting impressions. In the same survey, 63 percent of parents reported that their child continued new activities from camp after returning home.

Manners matter, and often linger.

The camp experience teaches more than just archery or lanyard making. The entire experience is made of teachable moments, perhaps one of the biggest is how to live with a group of people. Campers learn to pick up after themselves, respect each other’s property, and to say

“Please” and “Thank You.”

Camp gets those neurons pumping Education reform debate and concern over summer learning loss have pushed academic achievement into the spotlight. Research shows that participation in intentional programs, like camp, during summer months helps stem summer learning loss. In addition, camp provides ample opportunity for developmental growth, which is a precursor to academic achievement. And, because of the “hands-on” nature of camp, often children who struggle in traditional edu-

cation settings do well at camp.

Camp builds leaders for the 21st century and beyond Independence, resiliency, teamwork, problem-solving skills, and the ability to relate to other people these are the skills that tomorrow’s leaders will need, and the skills camp has been adept at building for 150 years.

Photo: Long after the final campfire fades, the skills and friendships built at camp continue to shine.

The sound of success

Unique ways music education supports academic achievement

In today’s schools, science, technology, engineering and mathematics often dominate the academic spotlight. Yet educators and researchers continue to point to another powerful driver of student success: music education.

According to the Arts Education Data Project, an estimated 2.1 million American students lacked access to arts education including music as of 2022. That gap is concerning, as mounting research shows that music instruction strengthens performance across multiple academic areas.

Mathematical Thinking

Music and mathematics share more than a passing resemblance. Reading rhythms involves fractions and division. Recognizing musical patterns mirrors algebraic reasoning.

A 2019 study published by the American Psychological Association found that students who learned to play an instrument and continued in band or orchestra performed nearly one academic year ahead of their peers in several subjects, including math. The structured logic of music timing, sequencing and symbolic interpretation reinforces the same analytical skills students rely on in advanced mathematics.

Boost Literacy And Language Skills

Music education also enhances reading and writing development. Learning to interpret

notes on a page parallels decoding words in a book. Both require attention to symbols, comprehension of meaning and the ability to selfcorrect.

Singing lyrics and studying musical storytelling introduce students to new vocabulary and poetic structure, strengthening comprehension. Research in neuroscience suggests that musical training activates brain regions associated with language processing, giving young learners an added advantage in literacy.

Build Discipline And Study Habits

Mastering an instrument takes time, patience and consistent practice. Students quickly learn that improvement comes from repetition and focus lessons that translate directly to homework, long-term projects and exam preparation.

The resilience developed while tackling challenging passages or preparing for performances can foster greater academic persistence overall.

Enhance Cognitive And Emotional Well-Being

Music engages multiple areas of the brain simultaneously, supporting memory, concentration and problem-solving. At the same time, it offers a creative outlet that can reduce stress and build confidence. Students who feel emotionally supported and

creatively fulfilled are often better equipped to handle rigorous coursework and classroom demands.

Foster Collaboration And Communication

Participation in band, choir or orchestra teaches students to listen closely, follow direction and contribute to a shared goal. Ensemble performance requires cooperation and accountability skills that mirror group projects in science labs, history presentations and other academic settings.

Balanced Learning

As schools continue to prioritize STEM ini-

tiatives, many educators advocate for a broader STEAM approach that includes the arts. Music education does more than enrich school culture; it strengthens cognitive development, academic performance and social skills. By investing in music programs alongside core academic subjects, schools create wellrounded learning environments that prepare students not only for higher test scores, but for lifelong success.

An invisible threat in Long Island’s waters

Researchers study acidification and its potential effects on the future of oysters and clams

By ABIGAIL GRIECO, WILL SHEELINE & JOSEPH D’ALESSANDRO of the Herald Community Newspapers

Third installment in a series about water.

For generations, the waters surrounding Long Island have defined its identity — from the wide-open waterfronts of the South Shore to the shellfish beds of the North Shore. But beneath the surface, a quieter transformation is underway.

Ocean acidification is often called climate change’s “evil twin,” and refers to the lowering of the water’s pH, the scale used to measure the concentration of hydrogen ions in the water. While global warming refers to rising temperatures, acidification describes a shift in seawater chemistry.

The science begins with carbon dioxide. As levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere increase — predominantly from the burning of fossil fuels — the ocean absorbs roughly 25 to 30 percent of it. When carbon dioxide dissolves in seawater, it forms carbonic acid, making the water more acidic, and lowering its pH.

farmers — industries that have experienced both revival and setbacks in recent decades — these chemical changes aren’t just theoretical. They are measurable, seasonal and, increasingly, part of daily operations.

The ‘evil twin’ of climate change

Adrienne Esposito, executive director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment, a nonprofit advocacy organization in New York and Connecticut, describes ocean acidification as a hidden but mounting crisis for Long Island’s waters — one intensified by warming temperatures, nitrogen pollution and poor circulation in local bays.

“It’s commonly understood that roughly a third of all carbon dioxide emissions released into the atmosphere are absorbed by the marine environment,” Esposito said. That absorption increases acidity levels in bays, estuaries and the open ocean.

RISING TIDES

The pH scale is logarithmic, meaning that even a small numerical drop represents a significant shift in chemistry. The ocean is naturally slightly alkaline, but since the Industrial Revolution, average ocean surface pH has dropped by about 0.1 units — roughly a 30 percent increase in acidity. That shift reduces the availability of carbonate ions, the building blocks shellfish such as oysters and clams need to form their calcium carbonate shells.

Ryan Wallace, assistant professor of environmental science at Adelphi University, explained that these acidity levels are not evenly distributed.

On Long Island, acidification is not driven by global carbon emissions alone. Local factors intensify the problem. Nitrogen discharged from wastewater, septic systems and fertilizer runoff flows into bays and harbors, fueling harmful algal blooms. When those blooms die and decompose, the process consumes oxygen and releases additional carbon dioxide in the water, further lowering pH.

The result is a compounding effect: global atmospheric carbon dioxide combined with local nitrogen pollution accelerates acidification in shallow, enclosed estuaries.

Warming waters add another layer of stress. As temperatures rise, marine organisms’ metabolic demands increase, but warmer water holds less dissolved oxygen. Together, warming and acidification can weaken shellfish during their most vulnerable larval stages, making it harder for them to survive and build shells.

For Long Island’s oyster and clam

Some bays and harbors on the North Shore are measured at 450 parts per million, close to the ideal level of roughly 300 ppm, while others, particularly in the western portion of Long Island Sound, measured as high as 2,000 ppm.

Wallace emphasized that while these may not sound like huge differences, even minor changes in CO2 levels can have a drastic impact.

“To put it into perspective, over the last 800,000 years or so, the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere was only about 300” parts per million, Wallace explained. “Two thousand is a lot more than that, so when you get to concentrations that are that high, this can have implications for, you know, organisms that are living in these ecosystems.”

While the data reflect a global pattern, the consequences are being felt at the regional level as well. As Esposito noted, Long Island’s problems do not exist in isolation.

“It’s being exacerbated by an increase in temperature of the waterways and more nutrient runoff, such as nitrogen, going into waterways,” she said. “All of that causes unfortunate degradation to our water bodies.”

While algae is an important part of a healthy ecosystem, excess nitrogen can fuel algal blooms that, when they die off, consume oxygen and further stress marine life — compounding the chemical impacts of acidification with biological ones.

In the South Shore’s Western Bays, limited water circulation compounds the problem. Research by Stony Brook

University has shown that it can take up to 180 days for water to fully flush out through an inlet into the Atlantic Ocean. Instead, Esposito said, the water “sloshes back and forth” before eventually reaching the ocean, trapping heat and pollutants in the process.

Coastal areas such as the western portion of the Sound are especially vulnerable because of limited circulation. Wallace stressed that scientists differentiate between open-ocean acidification and coastal-ocean acidification because of the unique challenges those areas face.

In Hempstead Harbor, the issue of acidification has been a focus for local environmental organizations for decades. The Coalition to Save Hempstead Harbor was formed in 1986 to address a range of environmental issues facing the area, including acidification.

Michelle Lapinel McAllister, the coalition’s programs director, explained that pH monitoring is one of the core services that the nonprofit provides for the harbor. Measuring occurs yearround, with particular emphasis from May to October, when the harbor, in

common with other waterways, sees annual spikes in nitrogen levels.

“Each season we will see periods of low dissolved oxygen, and whenever dissolved oxygen gets low, then we’ll see pH drop as well,” Lapinel McAllister said. “That will typically happen around the hottest part of the year.”

Another complication is the fact that enclosed waters respond more quickly to environmental stressors than the open ocean, meaning local ecosystems can feel the impacts sooner and more intensely.

“The more stagnant the water body is, the more these acidity levels build up,” Esposito said. “The more the temperature builds up, the more damage the increase in acidity levels can do.”

She described three primary consequences of ocean acidification: “reduced water quality, the impact on shellfish and finfish and the degradation of the overall habitat due to low oxygen.”

Shellfish such as oysters and clams struggle to build and maintain their shells in more acidic conditions, while

Rising acidity, rising stakes for coastal shellfish

Continued from PreViouS PAGe

finfish larvae have lower survival rates — threatening both the ecosystem and the region’s maritime economy.

“Acidification actually reduces the availability of carbonate ions that are needed for these organisms to build their shells, so that’s a major issue,” Wallace said. “Like shellfish aquaculture, it can impact fisheries, and then there’s this cascading effect that can influence things like recreational activities and tourism.”

This is especially relevant because shellfish play an important role in regulating nitrogen levels. An adult oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of water per day, depending on size and environmental conditions, while a clam can filter roughly half that.

Across Long Island, and across the country, local environmental organizations and governments are throwing their support behind shellfish hatcheries and protection programs, including the towns of Hempstead, Oyster Bay and Babylon. Lapinel McAllister explained that while these efforts serve an important role in safeguarding healthy ecosystems, they can’t singlehandedly save marine ecosystems.

“On their own, shellfish can’t improve the water quality to healthy levels,” she said, “but having a good, healthy, strong population is going to be part of that overall puzzle of maintaining the stability of pH over long term.”

While local efforts to restore wetlands, upgrade sewage-treatment plants and rebuild shellfish populations are making progress, Esposito said the root cause remains global. “The main culprit of ocean acidification is the burning of fossil fuels,” she said. “The only thing we can do is support more renewable energy so that we’re not pouring more carbon dioxide into the waterways.”

The wet work of marine scientists

Across Long Island, scientists are working together to find ways to improve the quality of local waters. A leading solution is all-organic: Restoring local populations of filter-feeders could, with careful management, bear the brunt of decontamination efforts.

The Flax Pond Marine Laboratory, in Old Field, is nestled in the marshes of the North Shore, overlooking the Long Island Sound. This laboratory is a research hatchery, working toward “improving local coastal water quality and replenishing natural shellfish populations,” according to its shellfish restoration manager, Peter Martin.

The facility’s current focus is the Ribbed Mussel Bioextraction Project, in which staff test what growth strategies lead to the healthiest shellfish that could be reintroduced to coastal waters to rejuvenate them.

“There’s a lot of coastal communities and little inlets and even out-of-use small pockets of water that are just polluted and are in need of cleaner water,” Martin said. “Fundamentally … shellfish are natural filters. All they do is filter feed, so they’re cleaning the water as they grow.”’

“One of the big pollutants that we’re focused on is nitrogen removal,” hatchery Research Specialist Ashley Lopez said. “Shellfish take in the bad form of nitrogen, process it in their body, and they still expel some nitrogen, but it’s a safe and more bioavailable kind of nitrogen.”

The ribbed mussel program is exploring new methods of shellfish cultivation; according to Lopez, there is no consensus in the field about growing large amounts of these shellfish. In their nascence, ribbed mussels have delicate health — a larva is as small as a grain of sand. The Citizens Campaign for the Environment staff regularly sterilize equipment and filter externally sourced seawater to minimize diseases and infections from plankton and bacteria.

The researchers grow eight different varieties of algae to feed adult ribbed mussels, which are kept in temperature-stabilized basins. This conditioning pro-

nonprofits like the Coalition to Save Hempstead Harbor play a vital role in the fight against acidification. Staff members such as michelle Lapinel mcAllister, right, programs director, and Carol diPaolo, water-monitoring coordinator, track pH levels and coordinate a shellfish restoration program to keep the harbor healthy.

Acidification, by the numbers

■ 30 percent of carbon dioxide that is released into the atmosphere is absorbed by the ocean.

■ From 2008 to 2017, fossil fuel burning and land use changes were responsible for 40 billion tons of emissions per year.

■ Surface waters are 30 percent more acidic than their pre-industrial levels.

■ While the ocean on average has seen a 0.06 decrease in pH units, meaning increasing acidity, since 1985, the Long Island Sound has seen a decrease of 0.04 per decade, according to UConn Marine Sciences.

■ In the past 25 years, the $6 billion clamming industry has seen a 93 percent reduction in harvests, according to the New York state Department of Environmental Conservation.

■ More than 12,000 acres of Long Island waterways have been closed to shellfishing due to algal blooms, according to the Suffolk County Health Department.

■ 76 percent of the nitrogen in the waters off Long Island — home to 40 percent of the state’s population — comes from faulty septic systems.

cess is meant to “ripen the gonads” of the mussels and help them reproduce as effectively as possible, according to Martin.

“What we’re doing is trying to find out the best way

to grow a lot of them from birth on and have them actually survive,” Lopez said. “And the starting point, we think, is the feeding regimens that we’re giving them. So that’s why we’re doing different diets — to see what kind of spawn they produce and see how the larvae survive after that.”

“This two-year project is Phase Two of a larger project,” Martin added. “Phase One was from ’23 to ’25. Each phase is getting further and further, doing more to figure out the best way to grow these things.”

In addition to ribbed mussel cultivation, CCE staff are involved with other restoration efforts, including a Community Aquaculture Restoration and Education program, in which scientists partner with community volunteers to sow “spat-on-shell” oysters into local estuaries, from which larvae will grow and mature into underwater custodians.

The Flax Pond hatchery works with groups ranging from the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County and Stony Brook University to the state Department of Environmental Conservation and the New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission. It is one ecological collective of many working toward improving the quality of local waters from the east end of Long Island to the shores of Nassau County.

Setting course for a healthier future

Even as Long Island’s waterways face the threat of rising acidification, the experts emphasize that all is not lost. Thanks to the efforts of the Coalition to Save Hempstead Harbor and other environmental groups, the region’s waters have bounced back from near-toxic levels of acidity, not to mention numerous pollutionrelated threats of the 1980s.

According to Wallace, the efforts of scientists and local volunteers, from the South Shore to coastal Connecticut, to monitor and address these issues have already made an impact.

“There’s been a lot of positives,” he said, “but we can’t stop there. There’s more work to be done.”

Copiague Middle School: Isabel Hemmes (soprano); Amanda Gamarra (alto); Arthur DeLeon (baritone); William Goodman (baritone); Eileen Hernandez-Bonilla (children’s voice); Miguel Mendoza-Rodriguez (children’s voice); Aleia Maharajh (children’s voice); Natalie Denisse Argueta Canales (percussion); Carter Deegan (trombone); Yadelyn Rodriguez (trombone); Belen Diaz Ochoa (flute); Aaron Cazares (flute); Lilyana Galagarza (flute); Hailey Abello (clarinet); Joshua Nunez (clarinet); Luisangel Rivas Guzman (baritone); and Alan Marte Aracena (baritone).

Copiague musicians honored with All-County selections

Thirty studentmusicians from Copiague School District have been selected to participate in the annual Suffolk County Music Educators Association’s All-County Festival this March. Students were selected for the festivals based on their NYSSMA scores and teacher recommendations. Congratulations to all the students.

THURSDAY, MARCH 5

•Suffolk County First Precinct Community Meeting: 12 p.m., Copiague Memorial Library, 50 Deauville Blvd., Copiague. For more information, please call (631) 854-8100.

•Town of Babylon Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting: 6 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. For more information, please call (631) 957-3012.

•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, MARCH 6

•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, MARCH 7

•Amityville School District Board of Education Special Session: 9 a.m.,

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Park Avenue Memorial Elementary School, 140 Park Ave., Amityville. For more information, please call (631) 565-6000.

•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 8

•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 9

•Copiague School District Board of Education Meeting: 7 p.m., Everett E. Newmann III Administrative Offices at Copiague Middle School, 2650 Great Neck Road, Copiague. For more information, please call (631)-842-4015.

•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) 957-4434.

TUESDAY, MARCH 10

•Town of Babylon Accessory Apartment Review Board Meeting: 6 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town

Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. For more information, please call (631) 957-7468.

•Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m., Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9592, 55 Hickory Lane, Levittown. Free weekly, in-person meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631) 332-0552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808. All calls are confidential.

•Church Attic Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. For information, call (631) 264-0152 or email amitychurch1792@gmail.com

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11

•Town of Babylon Town Board Meeting: 3 p.m., Town Board Room,

Babylon Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. For more information, please call (631) 957-3000.

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

•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: Amityville Editor, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden City, NY 11530; or email: dconsola@liherald.com at least two - three weeks prior to the publication date in which the item must appear. Sorry, but open-ended requests without the specific dates of the events are not acceptable. While we make every attempt to accommodate each request, we cannot guarantee publication of any items. For more information, call 516-569-4000.

Former Lindenhurst Mayor Tom Brennan dies at 75

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

The Lindenhurst community is mourning the loss of former Mayor Tom Brennan, a village leader and longtime resident remembered for his dedication to Lindenhurst and its people.

Brennan died Thursday, Feb. 26. He was 75.

“We are deeply saddened,” R. J. Renna, a former village trustee who now

serves as a Suffolk County legislator representing Lindenhurst, said. “Tom was more than a colleague; he was a trusted mentor, a steady voice of insight and a cherished member of our community.”

A Republican, Brennan was first elected mayor in 2004 and was consistently re-elected through 2016, when he stepped down due to illness.

Deputy Mayor Mike Lavorata served as acting mayor during Brennan’s ab-

sence and was later appointed to complete a one-year term. A special election was held in March 2018, when Lavorata was elected mayor.

Mayor Brennan graduated from Lindenhurst High School in 1968 and served in the United States Navy from 1969 to 1972. He graduated cum laude from American Academy McAllister in 1973.

He was the owner and director of the Lindenhurst Funeral Home. His life in Lindenhurst was also marked by involvement in numerous civic and service organizations. He was a member of Knights of Columbus Council 794, the Lindenhurst Rotary Club, the Lindenhurst Kiwanis Club, the Lindenhurst Chamber of Commerce, the Lindenhurst American Legion, the Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge 1421, the Ancient Order of the Hibernians and the Nassau/ Suffolk Funeral Directors Association. He served on the advisory board for the Christina Renna Foundation and was also secretary, director, manager and coach with the Lindenhurst National Little League.

“Tom was the kindest person I ever met,” Ann Messina wrote on the funeral home’s website. “The words “no” “can’t” were never part of his vocabulary. Our Parish benefited greatly from the many requests asked of him.”

“We have lost not only a former mayor but we lost a kind, soft spoken friend,” wrote Raymond Fais, a village resident and employee. “Tom’s commitment to the residents of Lindenhurst was incredible and his record of accomplishments speak for themselves. I am grateful for being able to say we were friends.”

“I have no words to describe my sadness and emptiness over this loss,”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

The physical therapist with a mission to serve

By HAILEY FULMER hfulmer@liherald.com

Emilian Emeagwali has built a life rooted in service, driven by a deep, generational commitment to uplifting and supporting the community around her.

Born and raised in Onitsha, Nigeria, Emeagwali, 60, emigrated to the United States in 1992, where she faced a dramatic change of lifestyle. In Nigeria, she had been surrounded by support, with help raising a baby girl and managing her daily responsibilities. “Everybody was helping with the baby,” she said. “I was like a queen.”

In America there was no such support system, leaving her to adjust to life with just her husband and their daughter, and to take on a variety of responsibilities herself, from child care to cooking and cleaning.

Determined to adapt, Emeagwali immersed herself in American culture. She spent time watching movies, listening to the news and reading books to better understand her new environment. Even everyday things like food and weather required adjustment.

After moving from Nigeria, Emeagwali received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Brooklyn College. In 2003 she enrolled at Stony Brook University, where she earned a doctorate degree in physical therapy. Balancing school and family life proved difficult, because she was commuting 50 miles from Elmont and now caring for two children.

Despite these challenges, Emeagwali remained focused on her goal of helping others. After finishing her degree, she was motivated to continue her education by a desire to make an impact.

Her psychology classes helped her understand how to approach and connect with people, but she ultimately felt she could make a greater difference through physical therapy. While working as a therapist’s assistant in hospital settings, she became dissatisfied with the fastpaced environment, in which she often treated multiple patients in a short period of time.

Wanting to provide more personalized care, Emeagwali decided to open her own practice. In 2007 she founded State of the Art PT OT, a clinic in Valley Stream that has now been serving patients for nearly two decades. Her approach centers on treating people with the same care and attention she would give her own family.

That philosophy, she said, stems from her upbringing. As a child, she watched her parents give money to people in need, ensuring that they had food to eat. That instilled in her a lasting commitment to helping others and giving back.

“That is how I was raised,” she said. “I think that was embedded in me when growing up.”

In 2009, Emeagwali expanded that mission by founding the nonprofit Giving Back to Community Corp., headquartered in Valley Stream. The organization, which is funded by fundraisers and donations, focuses

on providing food, educational resources and other support to underserved people in surrounding communities as well as in Nigeria.

Whether through her clinic or her nonprofit work, Emeagwali’s impact extends far beyond individual patients, strengthening entire communities and carrying forward the values that first inspired her to give back.

At South Nassau, a steady hand in cardiac care

By ABIGAIL GRIECO agrieco@liherald.com

As director of noninvasive cardiology at Mount Sinai South Nassau, Dr. Pilar Stevens-Haynes has built a career centered on precision, compassion and the belief that medicine can be both life-saving and lifechanging.

That sense of connection is what ultimately steered her toward cardiology. Born and raised in the Elmont/ Valley Stream area, Stevens-Haynes discovered her love of science in high school, drawn to biology and fascinated by a senior-year anatomy and physiology elective.

Though she once envisioned herself as a surgeon, clinical rotations changed her mind. “I thought I would just love surgery,” she said. “But I actually found I loved speaking to patients. In surgery, your patients are unconscious.”

Instead she chose a field that allows her to combine long-term patient relationships with moments of dramatic intervention. While many areas of internal medicine focus on managing chronic illness, StevensHaynes noted that cardiology allows physicians to intervene in acute, life-threatening situations — heart attacks, heart failure or dangerous arrhythmias — and dramatically improve outcomes.

“In cardiology, you can treat someone and sometimes give them back the life they had before,” she said. “I find true joy in taking care of people over time and watching them heal.”

A graduate of SUNY Geneseo, Stevens-Haynes completed her medical training in the Mount Sinai system before joining South Nassau over a decade ago. Her current role centers on cardiac imaging, from

electrocardiograms and echocardiograms to multiple forms of stress testing. Four days a week she oversees the lab, ensuring that the facility meets national accreditation standards.

“The lab has to do what it says it’s going to do,” Stevens-Haynes said. “We have to perform the studies accurately and meet the standards that are set.”

Patient care remains central to her. “I’ve got the best

of both worlds,” she said. “I get to practice medicine, but I also get to do a little bit of curative medicine.”

Throughout her career, she has also navigated the realities of being one of few women — and often the only woman of color — in the room. “You have to get very comfortable by being the one and only,” StevensHaynes said. Early on, she admitted, she was “very, very quiet and shy,” hesitant to draw attention to herself. Over time, however, she came to recognize the importance of representation.

“Patients will say how wonderful it is to see women physicians and to see people that look like them take care of them,” she said. “They trust me because I look like me.”

Mentorship has become one of the most meaningful aspects of Steven-Haynes’s work. She recalled sitting down with a tearful young physician who worried that starting a family would jeopardize her medical career. Stevens-Haynes encouraged her to do both. That physician is now a cardiology fellow.

“It’s important that women know they can have grand professional goals and personal goals — and achieve them,” she said.

Stevens-Haynes credits academic medicine with offering flexibility that has allowed her to balance professional growth with family life. She and her husband, Hector Luna, are raising four children in Baldwin. She remains driven by the passion that first led her into medicine, and by her belief that physicians can build meaningful careers without sacrificing the aspects of life that matter most.

“Even if it feels overwhelming or like an all-boys club, you can find your niche anywhere,” she said. “Chase your dreams. You don’t have to sacrifice.”

Former Lindenhurst Mayor Tom Brennan dies at 75

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

Mayor Michael Lavorata said. “Tom was my other ‘big brother’ and mentor. He taught me what it means to be a public servant. He taught us how to respect those who disagreed with us while still being able to love them and work with them. I will be forever grateful to him for bringing me on his team back in 2004 and I only hope that I can continue to keep his example of class and decorum for the rest of my life.”

Babylon Town Supervisor Richard Schaffer described Brennan as “a classic example of a small town mayor.

“Mayor Tom Brennan laid the groundwork for the very successful downtown Lindenhurst Village we have today,” he said. “His style of leadership brought many people to the table, ensuring that everyone felt heard and their concerns

addressed. He was also the guy who you couldn’t say no to and you wanted to be a part of the efforts he was putting forward to better the community.”

Brennan is survived by his wife, Diane; his children, Kristen and her husband, Howie; Joseph (Thomas); and Thomas and his wife, Antionette; and four grandchildren, Benjamin, Declan, Liam and Collin. He is also survived by his brother, William; sister-in-law, Grace; and a niece and nephew.

He eposed at the Lindenhurst Funeral Home, 424 South Wellwood Ave., Lindenhurst. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Tuesday at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help R.C. Church, 210 S. Wellwood Ave., Lindenhurst. Burial followed at Breslau Cemetery, North Monroe Avenue and Newark Street, Lindenhurst.

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.

Babylon Senior High School students Diego

sent the district at the NYS DECA Conference in March.

Two West Babylon students qualify for NYS DECA competition

Two West Babylon students, Diego Pettinato and Jean Guerrero, qualified for the New York State DECA State Conference following their outstanding performances at the DECA regional competition. This year’s competition was highly competitive, with thousands of students from across New York State taking part in the business contest. Guerrero earned qualification in the Hotel and Lodging Management event,

while Pettinato qualified in the Entrepreneurship Series event. Both students demonstrated exceptional preparation, professionalism and strong business acumen throughout the competition. The NYS DECA State Conference will be held in March in Rochester. Pettinato and Guerrero will represent their school as they continue to showcase their skills on the state stage.

STEP RIGHT UP

Ringling reinvents the Big Top

By Abbey Salvemini

Get ready to cheer, dance and gasp — the legendary Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus is back, and it’s dazzling audiences in ways few could have imagined. The self-proclaimed “Greatest Show on Earth” has been boldly reimagined for a new generation, bringing a high-voltage spectacle to UBS Arena from March 6 through March 8.

This is not the circus of decades past. Gone are the traditional three rings and animal acts; in their place is a fast-paced, immersive experience that blends worldclass acrobatics, cutting-edge choreography, live music and vibrant storytelling. The arena transforms into a colorful celebration that feels as much like a concert and dance party as a circus performance.

The energy begins the moment everyone walks through the doors. An interactive pre-show sets the tone, introducing audiences to the dynamic Ringling Hype Crew — a lively cast of dancers and performers who invite everyone to move, clap and join in the fun. Before the first aerialist soars or the first stunt takes flight, the crowd is already part of the action.

At its heart are the performers.

• Friday March 6, 7 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, March 7-8, 11 a.m., 3 p.m., 7 p.m.

• Tickets start at $39.35, $20 kids tickets for all performances; available at ticketmaster.com

• UBS Arena, 2400 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont

The 65-person cast, representing 17 countries, is a truly international ensemble that fuses time-honored circus traditions with bold, contemporary feats. Among the most buzzed-about moments is the crisscross trapeze act, in which elite aerialists launch themselves along intersecting flight paths, slicing through the air in breathtaking near-misses that leave audiences holding their collective breath.

The stars of this new incarnation of circus include 33-year-old trapeze artist Miles Postlethwait. He grew up in Florida, attending Ringling shows (and Disney on Ice). Caught up in the spectacle, he in love with trapeze at age 10. A trapeze performer for 10 years (six professionally), he landed at Ringling in November.

Recalling his early circus memories: “I remember going to see Ringling Bros when I was very young. Honestly, what I remember most was the toys (specifically the dragon sword) and the cotton candy. But my mom tells me I was enamored with the acrobats.”

That fascination stuck, leading him to his tour “home” and what’s now billed as “The Greatest Party On Earth,” according to the Ringling mantra.

“Who wouldn’t want to be a part of The Greatest Show On Earth? I saw the previous tour multiple times and loved the show. It’s nonstop fun because you’re part of the show the whole time, interacting with other performers and the audience,” Postlethwait says.

The vibe is fueled by today’s cultural influences — reimagined through the lens of pop culture, concerts and festivals.

Back to the aforementioned trapeze stunt, he points out that the crisscross rig is unique and requires intense precision, but years of training make the nearmisses almost instinctive.

“It keeps me on my toes, and the crowd’s reaction

STEPPING OUT

Jessie’s Girl

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, each with dozens of credits performing with authentic ‘80s icons who made the music famous to begin with! Their motto: There’s no decade like the Eighties and no party like Back To The Eighties with Jessie’s Girl.

is incredible.”

The thrills keep on coming. Other highlights include the Double Wheel of Destiny, in which four daredevils leap and jump rope on spinning wheels.

A Chinese acrobatic bicycle act, created exclusively for Ringling, features gravity-defying human pyramids and fearless athleticism, with one acrobat running across the backs of nine moving bike riders. Salsa Colombia, a fiery dance and acrobatics troupe, brings the energy of Latin rhythms to the arena floor. And audiences are fascinated by Cam, a content creator and unicycle rider, who stacks up to 25 wheels towering nearly 35 feet high. Also watch out for Bailey the Robo Pup, a high-tech canine character and PT (Party Time), Ringling’s first-ever hype character, who keeps the crowd engaged and amplifies the celebratory atmosphere.

Giant LED screens and cameras capture acrobats from impossible angles, giving every seat the feel of front-row access.

Music powers the show. A DJ spins everything from hip-hop to Latin beats, driving the action from start to finish, with beat drops, live drumming and dance battles.

Those in the audience are not just spectators — they’re all in. Kids are drawn into onstage interactions, while the LED screens highlight stunts from content creator Cam, adding an extra layer of excitement. From split-second trapeze timing to jaw-dropping acrobatics, the spectacle keeps everyone on the edge of their seats while leaving lasting memories for all involved. The result is a full-on celebration with a festival-style energy that transforms classic circus elements.

Postlethwait sums it up simply: “It’s a super fun, energetic party. Families come and say everybody had a blast. It’s a show where kids aren’t just watching — they’re a part of the action.”

Perhaps most importantly, according to Postlethwait, the spectacle inspires young audiences to dream big.

“I hope they see that anything is possible. Circus acts show that humans’ limits go so much further than we think.”

Whether you’re in it for the stunts, the music or the interactive fun, this version of “The Greatest Show On Earth” promises something for everyone. Experience firsthand why Ringling Bros. has thrilled audiences for generations — now with a fresh, modern twist that makes the circus feel entirely new.

Friday, March 6, 8 p.m. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

South Shore Symphony welcomes Jane Monheit

With a voice radiating warmth, refinement and emotional depth, jazz vocalist Jane Monheit brings her celebrated interpretations of Great American Songbook classics to the Madison Theatre in a special collaboration with the South Shore Symphony Orchestra. Renowned for breathing fresh life into beloved standards, she headlines an unforgettable afternoon, blending the intimacy of jazz with the grandeur of full orchestral sound. Under the baton of Music Director Adam Glaser, the South Shore Symphony accompanies her in a series of orchestral arrangements that highlight both her vocal artistry and the timeless beauty of these enduring songs. The program also offers audiences a more intimate jazz club feel, with Monheit backed by a trio, including Glaser on piano, for several selections.

Sunday, March 8, 3 p.m. Molloy University campus, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. Tickets available at madisontheatreny.org or (516) 323-4444.

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

mar 5

‘Everybody Loves Raymond: Celebrating 30 Years’

Visit the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame for an immersive exhibit (designed by LIMEHOF Creative Director, renowned designer Kevin O’Callaghan). It features the 70-foot-wide set from the show’s recent 30th anniversary TV special on CBS, never before on display. Visitors can walk into the world of the Barone family and explore their home through original studio sets, which include the living room, the kitchen and other areas of the house. Also see a variety of iconic items, including original clothing, the famous fork and spoon, and the Christmas toaster, among other classic items from the series. Multimedia clips, including behind the scenes and rare out-takes and a range of related videos play in LIMEHOF’s surround sound theater.

• Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook

• Time: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

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

The power of voting: The activism of Alva Belmont and the Suffragists

Review the decades-long struggle for women’s voting rights in America, with the League of Woman Voters, at Vanderbilt Museum. New York was a leading state in this struggle, from the Seneca Falls Convention of 1848, which saw publication of the suffragists’ “Declaration of Sentiments,” to the landmark 1912 women’s suffrage parade up Fifth Avenue. This talk will feature one of the movement’s primary benefactors, Alva Vanderbilt Belmont, who emerged from the conspicuous consumption of the Gilded Age to become a champion of women’s suffrage and will delve into the influence of these forebears on our work today. $10. Registration required.

• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport

• Time: 7 p.m.

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

Night Sky Live

mar

6

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.

Celtic Woman

The Grammy-nominated global sensation returns to the stage with their highly anticipated new tour, Celtic Woman — A New Era. Featuring the mesmerizing talents of Mairéad Carlin, Muirgen O’Mahony, Ciara Ní Mhurchú, and the dynamic new addition Caitríona Sherlock, this production fuses the ensemble’s signature ethereal harmonies with innovative orchestrations, captivating stagecraft, and a contemporary energy that honors Ireland’s rich musical and cultural legacy while embracing Celtic Woman’s ongoing evolution. Audiences will be transported on a spellbinding journey through Irish music, from timeless classics to stirring original compositions. The evening promises breathtaking vocal performances, intricate instrumental mastery, and the rhythmic grace of traditional Irish dance. Accompanied by a full ensemble, the performers bring to life Celtic staples — including the bagpipe, bodhrán, tin whistles, and Uilleann pipes — creating a lush and immersive soundscape that resonates with both tradition and modernity. From evocative Irish ballads and contemporary favorites to classical masterpieces and fresh original songs, their tour celebrates the vibrancy of modern Ireland while paying tribute to centuries of musical heritage. It is a concert experience that blends elegance, passion, and cultural storytelling, offering audiences an unforgettable evening of artistry, energy and enchantment. mar

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

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

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

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) 3320552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808

mar

12

Serving Our Savior Feeding Ministry

First Presbyterian Church of Babylon holds their weekly “Grab and Go.” No questions are asked. All are welcome.

• Where: 79 E. Main St., Babylon

• Time: 4-6 p.m.

• Contact: (631) 587-5838

mar

21

Ready for Bonko?

• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport

• Time: 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; also March 7, March 13-14

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

Thrift Shop

Stop by Simpson United Methodist Church’s Thrift Shop for some unique finds.

• Where: 30 Locust Ave., Amityville

• Time: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

• Contact: (631) 789-2569

St. Mary’s Thrift Shop

Stop by St. Mary’s Thrift Shop to check out some found treasures. Choose from collectibles, glassware, clothing and other gently used items.

• Where: St. Mary’s, 175 Broadway, Amityville (enter from rear parking lot)

• Time: 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Amityville

• Time: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

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

mar

8

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 Cambiata Duo. Seating is limited with preregistration required through the Islip Arts Council.

• Where: 440 Montauk Hwy., 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

• Contact: (631) 464-4899 In concert

Church Attic

• Where: 25 Broadway, mar

7

Thrift Shop

Visit First United Methodist Church for their weekly thrift shop.

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame welcomes Mountain Maidens. These three dynamic voices, blended in splendid ancient and modern harmonies will lift your spirit, excite your senses and warm your heart. They sing ballads, folk songs, Medieval,

Irish Traditional music, love songs, country and gospel songs including themes of social justice to the accompaniment of guitars, banjo, dulcimer, bouzouki, dumbec, spoon, castanets and lots of percussion instruments including washboard.

• Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook

• Time: 3 p.m.

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

Amityville Fire Department Chemical Hose Co. #3 hosts a game of Bonko with dinner and drinks at the Amityville Fire House. Cash game prizes and raffles. To purchase your tickets, mail players name (s), address and phone number to Ex-Chief Charles Scudlo at 75 Hamilton St., Amityville, NY 11701 with check(s) of $85 per couple. Include the names of all players. Tickets for cash raffle are available for $20 each. Make check(s) payable to Chemical Hose Co. #3.

Detox The Mind Through Meditation Science of Spirituality Meditation Center hosts a workshop on the benefits of meditation with Andrew Vidich, PhD. All are welcome.

• Where: 79 County Line Road, Amityville

• Time: 7-9 p.m.

• Contact: (631) 822-7979, sos. org/event/detoxmindNY-mar10/ mar 10

Kid Zone

11

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 mar

• Where: 55 West Oak St., Amityville

• Time: Cocktails 7 p.m.; dinner 7:30 p.m.

• Contact: (631) 691-9081

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.

Courtesy of the Amityville school district

During the week of Jan. 26, students at Northwest Elementary School in Amityville crafted handmade cards, letters, and drawings as part of State Sen. Monica R. Martinez’s initiative to thank local veterans.

Northwest Elementary School spreads Valentine cheer to local veterans

This Valentine’s Day, students at Northwest Elementary School in Amityville are spreading love through heartfelt messages of gratitude for local veterans.

During the week of January 26, Northwest students crafted handmade cards, letters and drawings as part of State Sen. Monica R. Martinez’s initiative to thank veterans in the Fourth Senatorial District. Northwest’s submissions will be distributed to veterans just in time for

Valentine’s Day.

The submissions will showcase how sweet kindness can be, offering both students and recipients a meaningful reminder of the community’s appreciation for their contributions. This effort encouraged students to express gratitude and warmth to those who have made significant contributions to their country and their communities, reinforcing the importance of recognizing their service and dedication.

Town of Babylon to celebrate Black History Month Tuesday March 10

The Town of Babylon will be hosting their 38th Annual Black History Month Program on March 10 at 6 p.m. at Amityville Memorial High School. Admission is free.

This year’s theme is “A Century of Black History Commemorations.”

Entertainment will be provided by the Amityville Memorial High School Jazz Band, Venettes Cultural Workshop and Vocalist Jerome Lewis.

Master of Ceremonies will be Kevin

Boston-Hill and the Keynote Speaker will be Georgette Grier-Key. Honorees include Bethel A.M.E Copiague and Babylon, NAACP Central LI Chapter, Holy Trinity Baptist Church and Ebenezer Baptist Church Babylon. The event will also feature several vendors.

Amityville Memorial High School is located at 250 Merrick Road, Amityville. For more information, please call (631) 957-4292.

Town of Babylon Food Pantry requesting 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.

Read the Amityville Herald Record

Why Some Dogs Have Black Tongues

What it really means — and what it doesn’t

Does the black spot on a dog’s tongue mean he’s a Chow mix because Chow Chows have a trademark blue-black tongue?

Nope.

Many mixed breeds and certain purebreds — including Golden Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, Dobermans and at least 30 other breeds — can have black-spotted tongues.

Veterinarians say tongue pigmentation is usually nothing to worry about and is simply a matter of genetics.

Pets, Pets, Pets...

JOANNE ANDERSON

Chows are an ancient breed, believed to have originated in China or Mongolia. Recent DNA mapping supports that belief. Chows have been around for more than 2,000 years and are easily recognizable in pottery and sculpture dating to the Han Dynasty (206 B.C. to 22 A.D.).

How the Chow Chow got his blue-black tongue is still a mystery. An old fable offers an explanation: When God was painting the sky blue, He spilled a few drops of paint as he worked. The Chow followed, licking up the paint, and from that day on, the Chow had a blue tongue.

The Chow is not the only breed with a blue-black tongue. The Chinese Shar-Pei shares this trait. A few other mammals have black tongues, including giraffes, polar bears and several breeds of cattle, including Jersey.

Spots on canine tongues are deposits of extra pigment — similar to birthmarks or freckles on people. Dogs often have dark pigment on their skin as well, hidden beneath their coats. These spots may be large or small, many or few.

If a Chow’s tongue has a pink spot on it, does that mean it’s not purebred?

No.

Chow puppies’ tongues are pink at birth. The blueblack color develops as their eyes open. Sometimes the pigment change is slower, but the blueblack tongue pigment is usually complete by the time the puppy is 8 to 10 weeks old. Some tongues may mature and retain small spots or splashes of pink. Elderly Chows, and Chows with the dilute coat colors, cinnamon and blue, sometimes lose tongue pigment as they age and develop pink spots.

Chows are members of the large Spitz family of Northern Hemisphere breeds, which includes the Samoyed, Siberian Husky, Malamute, Keeshond, Akita, Shiba Inu, Norwegian Elkhound and even tiny Pomeranians. Spitz breeds share basic characteristics — similar body structure, tails carried over the back, pointed triangular ears and thick coats. Dogs resembling Chows but with pink tongues are probably

not Chows, but mixes of other Spitz-type dogs.

The American Kennel Club standard is stricter about Chow (and Shar-Pei) tongues. Tongues must be black — the darker, the better. A dog is disqualified from the show ring if the top surface or edges of the tongue are red or pink, or if the dog has one or more spots of red or pink.

For adoption through Last Hope Animal Rescue, 3300 Beltagh Ave., Wantagh:

Molly is a lovely Beagle, about five years old, who would love to join you in a diet and exercise routine. Pumpkin Spice is a delightful and smart seven-month-old orange tabby. He is at Last Hope’s satellite store location, PetSmart Bellmore on Merrick Road.

For more information, call 631-671-2588.

years ago.

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 LAM -

BERT WEISMAN & GORDON LLP

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

Public Notices — Your right to know

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

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:

SEQ CHAPTER \h \r 1LEGAL NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

That the SPECIAL VILLAGE ELECTION for the Village of Amityville will be held in said Village Wednesday, the 18th day of March 2026 with the polls open between the hours of 7:00 am in the forenoon and 9:00 pm in the afternoon of that day, and that the places of voting in each of the eight (8) Election Districts in said Village shall be as follows:

7th Election District - AUFSD, Park Avenue School Gym, Park Avenue and Wanser Place (rear)

8th Election District - AUFSD, Park Avenue School Gym, Park Avenue and Wanser Place (rear)

9th Election District - AUFSD, Park Avenue School Gym, Park Avenue and Wanser Place (rear)

17th Election District - AUFSD, Park Avenue School Gym, Park Avenue and Wanser Place (rear)

26th Election District - AUFSD, Park Avenue School Gym, Park Avenue and Wanser Place (rear)

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

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

AVISO LEGAL AVISO PÚBLICO Que la ELECCIÓN GENERAL DEL PUEBLO para la Villa de Amityville se llevará a cabo en dicha Villa el miercoles, el día 18 de Marzo de 2026 con las urnas abiertas entre las horas de 7:00 am en la mañana y 9:00 pm en la tarde de ese día, y que los lugares de votación en cada uno de los ocho (8) Distritos Electorales en dicho Pueblo serán los siguientes

7º Distrito Electoral - AUFSD, Gimnasio de la Escuela de Park Avenue, Park Avenue y Wanser Place (parte trasera)

8º Distrito Electoral - AUFSD, Gimnasio de la Escuela de Park Avenue, Park Avenue y Wanser Place (parte trasera)

9º Distrito Electoral - AUFSD, Gimnasio de la Escuela de Park Avenue, Park Avenue y Wanser Place (parte trasera)

17º Distrito Electoral- AUFSD, Gimnasio de la Escuela de Park Avenue, Park Avenue y Wanser Place (parte trasera)

26º Distrito Electoral- AUFSD, Gimnasio de la Escuela de Park Avenue, Park Avenue y Wanser Place (parte trasera)

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 11, 2026 at 6:00pm NEW APPLICATION

1. Allen Brown 69 Washington Ave. Deer Park NY 11729

SCTM NO: 0100-1181-5.001

2. Andrew Smith 90 Salem St. West Babylon NY 11704

63rd Election District - AUFSD, Park Avenue School Gym, Park Avenue and Wanser Place (rear)

117th Election District - AUFSD, Park Avenue School Gym, Park Avenue and Wanser Place (rear)

122nd Election District - AUFSD, Park Avenue School Gym, Park Avenue and Wanser Place (rear)

That at such election ONE (1) Trustee is to be elected to the term set opposite thereto respectively:

Amityville Common Ground Party

Adam J. Ansanelli Trustee/ 1-Year Term 9 Coles Avenue Amityville, NY 11701 By Order of the Board of Trustees

Catherine C. Murdock Village Clerk/Treasurer 26-47. 3/4

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

Pursuant to Chapter 186, Site Plan Review, and Chapter 213, Zoning, of the Babylon Town Code and Section 276 of the Town Law, notice is hereby given that the Town of Babylon Planning Board will hold public and/or informational hearings(s) at the Babylon Town Hall, Town Board Room, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York, on the Monday, March 9, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. prevailing time or as soon thereafter as can be heard to con-

sider the following application(s):

PUBLIC HEARING/ SITE PLAN REVIEW

JOB# HPLN-19 (2525A); Wyandanch Realty 7, Inc.: SCTM# 0100-078-02-058, 0100-078-02-059, 0100-078-02-060, 0100-078-02-061: Zone – E Business: SEQRA- Unlisted Action, Uncoordinated Review: Applicant proposes to demolish existing structure to construct a 1,852sf (footprint) freestanding Dunkin’ with drive-thru lane and 14 interior seats, along with associated site improvements.: Property is located on the west side of Straight Path, 180’ north of Little East Neck Road, Wyandanch, Suffolk

63º Distrito Electoral- AUFSD, Gimnasio de la Escuela de Park Avenue, Park Avenue y Wanser Place (parte trasera)

117º Distrito Electoral- AUFSD, Gimnasio de la Escuela de Park Avenue, Park Avenue y Wanser Place (parte trasera)

Distrito Electoral 122- AUFSD, Gimnasio de la Escuela de Park Avenue, Park Avenue y Wanser Place (parte trasera)

Que en dicha elección se elegirán uno (1) fideicomisarios para el período que se indica al lado, respectivamente:

Amityville Common Ground Party

Adam J. Ansanelli Fideicomisario/ Término de 1 años

9 Coles Avenue Amityville, NY 11701

Por orden de la Junta de Síndicos

Catherine C. Murdock

Secretaria de la Villa/Tesorería 26-48 3/4

County, Town of Babylon, New York

PUBLIC HEARING/ SITE PLAN REVIEW/CHANGE OF ZONE

JOB# HPLN-52 (2514AE); 1301-1321 Montauk Highway Corp: SCTM# 0100194-03-065.001, 0100194-03-066, 0100-19403-067 and 0100-19403-068: Zone – E Business to MR-Multiple Residence: SEQRAUnlisted Action, Uncoordinated Review: Applicant proposes a change of zone from E-Business to MRMultiple Residence to construct a 2-story apartment building for eight (8) one-bedroom units and interior alterations to the existing mixed-use building to convert space

into an additional one-broom apartment unit, along with associated site improvements.: Property is located on the northeast corner of Merrick Road and Saint Ann’s Avenue, Copiague, Suffolk County, Town of Babylon, New York All interested persons should appear at the above time and place by order of Patrick Halpin, Chairperson of the Planning Board, Town of Babylon, North Lindenhurst, Suffolk County, New York

PRINTING INSTRUCTIONS

Amityville Record: 03/04/26 26-50 3/4

SCTM NO: 0100157-2-53 RENEWALS

1. Joseph Salemi 164 Arthur Ave. West Babylon NY 11704 SCTM NO: 0100-158-2-67

2. Jose Abrigo 802 Bayview Ave. Amityville NY 11701

SCTM NO: 0100-1693-2.006

3. Tim Golub 296 Old Farmingdale Rd. West Babylon NY 11704 SCTM NO: 0100-210-2-8 26-49. 3/4

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TOWN OF BABYLONZONING 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 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 19, 2026 BEGINNING AT 6:00

P.M.

6:00 p.m.

1. Application #26-21

Vincenzo Chiarenza and Amanda Blanke, 1028 Niagara Avenue, Lindenhurst, NY. Permission to diminish front yard setback from 30’ to 20.9’; diminish distance to the northwest side yard setback from 12’ to 10.8’; diminish distance to total side yards from 30’ to 20.2’; increase total building area from 20% to 30.5% (over by 681.1 sq. ft.). All in connection with the erection of a proposes one story addition, second floor addition and front portico. Property located on the south side of N. Niagara Ave., 405.96’ west of Spielhagen St., Lindenhurst, NY.

SCTM#0100-155-239 Zoning District: Residence B

6:05 p.m.

2. Application #26-22

Wahid Chowdhury and Shaheena Chowdhury, 7 Toysome Lane, Deer Park, NY. Permission to increase total building area from 20% to 36.2% (over by 1620 sq. ft.); diminish distance to rear lot line from 2’ to 1.3’ (for concrete patio); allow

two (2) curb cuts in the front yard where one (1) is permitted. All in connection with legally maintaining a 2nd driveway, two (2) concrete patios, 2md story deck with stairs and interior alterations. Property located on the east side of Toysome Lane, 105’ north of Bowling Lane, Deer Park, NY.

SCTM#0100-91-2-32

Zoning District: Residence B

6:10 p.m.

3. Application #2616 William Manko and Carole-Anne Diamond, 3 East Neck Court, West Babylon, NY. Permission to diminish front yard setback from 30’ to 20’ on East Neck Court; diminish front yard setback from 30’ to 11.4’ on Southard Avenue; diminish distance to front property line from 40’ to 8.6’ on Southard Avenue (for shed). All in connection with a proposed two-story side addition, front covered porch, and second-story addition. Property located on the northeast corner of East Neck Court and Southard Avenue, West Babylon, NY.

SCTM#0100-217-163.002 Zoning District: Residence C

6:15 p.m.

4. Application #26-24

Mr. Property Builders LLC, 281 Main Street, Farmingdale, NY. Permission to diminish width at front street line from 75’ to 71.34’; to subdivide a parcel from 146.45’ x 124.09’ x 150’ x 136.04’ to 71.34’ x 124.09’ x 75’ x 131.95’. All in connection with the proposed subdivision of one (1) lot into two (2) lots and to erect a new two-story, singlefamily dwelling on Lot 1. Property located on the northeast corner of Deer Park Avenue and Whalen Street, Deer Park, NY.

Public Notices — Your right to know

SCTM#0100-152-1108 Zoning District: Residence C Subject Premises: 795 Deer Park Avenue, North Babylon 6:20 p.m.

5. Application #2623 Basser-Kaufman 228, LLC, 151 Irving Pl., Woodmere, NY. Permission to increase distance permitted from lowest point of contact between the sign structure and the building structure from 1’ to 4’; increase number of wall signs from one (1) to four (4). All in connection with the erection of non-conforming wall signs. Property located on the north side of Montauk Highway, 190.45’ west of Beachwood Drive.

SCTM#0100-223-18.004 Zoning District: Business E Subject Premises: 501 Montauk Highway, West Babylon 6:25 p.m.

6. Application #26-26

MRM Ventures LLC (tenant)/G & S Investors/Willow Park, L.P. (property owner), 429 Centre Island Road, Oyster Bay, NY. Requesting a special exception permit to operate a retail recreational marijuana dispensary; diminish off-street parking from eighty-seven (87) parking stalls required to sixty-six (66) parking stalls provided; diminish allowable radius from lots zoned or used for residential from 750’ required to 420’ provided. All in connection with a portion of an existing building. Property located on the east side of Broad Hollow Road, approximately 137.3’ north of Milbar Boulevard.

SCTM#0100-31-3.005 Zoning District: Industry G Subject Premises: 2119 Broad Hollow Road, East Farmingdale ALL PERSONS OR THEIR DULY AP-

POINTED REPRESENTATIVE MUST APPEAR IN PERSON AT THE ABOVE HEARING. ALL CASES WILL BE HEARD IN THE ORDER IN WHICH THEY ARE ADVERTISED, TO BE FOLLOWED BY AD-

JOURNED CASES. BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS MICHAEL KANE, CHAIRMAN

Dated:

Babylon Town Hall Lindenhurst, New York

February 24, 2026 26-51. 3/4

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

EMPLOYMENT

Help Wanted

CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE

Full Time/Part Time

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

DRIVERS WANTED

Full Time and Part Time

Positions Available!

Busy Print Shop in Garden City

is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239

DRIVING INSTRUCTOR

Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome!

$22 - $27/ Hour

Bell Auto School

516-365-5778

Email: info@bellautoschool.com

EDITOR/REPORTER

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Hudson Steals the Show

Taking a contractor to court

Q. We are suing our contractor and need some advice. A year ago, we finished our second-floor addon and first-floor kitchen and rear family room remodel by opening up walls to join them. Everything seemed fine until it rained the first time. The windows began to leak at the bottom, and then around the tops and sides. Our new sliding glass door did the same. The basement flooded, and we are not in a flood area. Then the air-conditioning company said somebody disconnected the ducts, and when we opened the ceilings, more water poured down. The house is now filled with mold, which we clean with bleach where we can get to it, but we couldn’t move out and have two small children under age 4.

Although we have many questions and hired an attorney, we’re wondering whether we should hire an architect to go over all the problems and identify them, with remedies, or hire one of the contractors who said they could fix the problems, or wait until the lawsuit is finished to make it possible for a jury to see the damage. The job architect, whom we never met, has now had their license revoked for the next two years, but we wouldn’t go to them, anyway.

A. Ugh! This is more common than you would think. It starts with not having the architect working for you and instead working for the contractor. I can guess that the contractor was contacted first, and you hired them to get their architect and provide plans. That was your first mistake.

Next, people are lazy, expecting that anyone they hire knows all the best techniques to build and knows all the rules, codes and laws. That was mistake number two. Even though you hire people, you should have gone over critical details, especially about waterproofing and structural techniques on the plans, to make sure that the building owner looks for those steps to be carried out. You, the building owner, I always say, are the “eyes and ears” on the job, since the architect often isn’t there at critical times, when waterproofing membranes and materials are joined.

Mistake number three was not doing a water test with a garden hose when the finish siding, windows roofing, etc., had been applied. Simulating rain by pointing a hose skyward so that the water cascades down — not a direct fire-hose hit — tells you right away if something is failing.

You’re going to need a licensed expert — an architect or an engineer — to work with your attorney. Document everything with videos during simulated or storm events to show the water coming in and whatever other failures, such as leaking and disconnected air ducts, and hire people who can do the job correctly as soon as you can. You need to have a healthy home for your family, and a lawsuit could take years while you possibly get sick from the mold and the chlorine you’re breathing. Good luck!

© 2026 Monte Leeper Readers are encouraged to send questions to yourhousedr@aol.com, with “Herald question” in the subject line, or to Herald Homes, 2 Endo Blvd., Garden

NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

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Winter used to mean something different

This winter has felt familiar in a way many of us haven’t experienced in years.

For a long time, it seemed like the big snowstorms had become part of Long Island’s past — stories about winters when snowbanks lined the streets for weeks and storms arrived one after another. Our younger generation grew up believing those winters were exaggerated memories. But this year reminded us that those winters were very real.

Back then, several major snowstorms each season were simply expected. Snow wasn’t unusual; it was part of life.

Forecasts calling for a foot or more didn’t lead to widespread shutdowns. Instead, communities prepared, adapted and carried on.

I grew up in Amityville, and one memory stands out clearly: The schools were hardly ever closed. And it certainly wasn’t because the storms were smaller. The reason schools stayed open was simple: By the time the sun came up, our streets were already cleared. While families were sleeping, the Department of Public Works was out

doing the work that made everything else possible. Plows moved through neighborhoods in the early-morning darkness, and by the time school buses began their routes, roads were passable and safe.

As kids, we didn’t fully appreciate what went into that effort. We just knew that snow days were rare. Looking back now, it’s clear how much dedication and planning it took to make that happen — and how much pride our community took in staying open and functioning even during tough winters.

Banother. Residents helped elderly homeowners clear paths. Kids spent hours sledding, and for a short time, the pace of everyday life slowed just a little.

This winter brought many of those memories rushing back. Seeing plows moving steadily through town, hearing residents share stories of digging out together felt like stepping back into a familiar chapter of our village’s history.

ut the work behind the scenes today is more demanding than ever.

Snowstorms also meant opportunity. A heavy snowfall was a chance for kids and teenagers to earn a little money. You’d grab a shovel, meet up with friends and head out into the neighborhood, knocking on doors. Driveways and sidewalks needed clearing, and everyone knew someone willing to pay a few dollars for help digging out. Gloves got soaked, faces froze and backs ached before the day was done. But there was something rewarding about it. You learned responsibility, a work ethic and the value of helping neighbors. And hot chocolate tasted better after hours spent outside in the cold.

Those storms also brought people together. Neighbors checked in on one

But while the memories may feel nostalgic, the work behind the scenes today is more demanding than ever. Expectations are higher, traffic volumes greater and public safety requirements more complex. Clearing roads isn’t just about convenience — it’s about ensuring that emergency responders can reach residents, businesses can reopen and daily life can resume.

That responsibility falls squarely on the shoulders of our DPW. Throughout these storms, crews worked tirelessly, preparing equipment ahead of time, plowing through the overnight hours, salting and re-salting roadways, clearing municipal lots, and maintaining safe passage for emergency services. Their work continued long after the snow stopped falling, often in freezing temperatures and challenging condi-

tions. It isn’t easy work, and it isn’t done in the spotlight. Yet it’s essential to everything we rely on during and after a storm. And while the main roads may be cleared quickly, the work doesn’t end when the snow stops. Removal of snow piles and attention to problem areas takes time, patience and continued effort, but it’s a critical part of fully restoring normal conditions.

I also want to acknowledge the unwavering support of our volunteer Fire Department and Police Department, which stood ready throughout each storm to respond to emergencies. Their teamwork reflects the very best of what makes Amityville strong.

The same spirit that kept the village moving decades ago is alive and well today. On behalf of our residents, I want to express my sincere appreciation to the employees of the Department of Public Works. Their professionalism, dedication and long hours ensured that the village remained safe, accessible and prepared throughout this winter season.

For many residents, these storms brought back memories of winters past. The work of our DPW crews helped ensure that, as always, our community continued to move forward safely. And that is something worth remembering — in every season.

Michael O’Neill is the mayor of Amityville.

We’re finding out how expensive wind power really is

Ashort article appeared in Newsday last month, announcing that New York state had canceled new wind power bids. This was a big deal that required wider coverage. And then, two weeks later, another article appeared, with the headline that wind farms’ impact on average Long Island electric bills had increased near fivefold since 2019. This story spelled out what many of us had warned for years: The true cost of wind power is coming in at costs far higher than the initial low-balled estimates.

This is an enormous fall from grace for wind power, which was supposed to be the panacea for our costly energy needs.

Courts reversed President Trump’s decisions to halt wind projects that were already underway, and rightly so. But there was no such protection for newer projects.

These projects should have to rise

and fall on their own merits, and for too long they were propped up by misinformation and huge ratepayer and taxpayer subsidies. We have long argued that the public was not getting a transparent accounting of what these offshore wind projects were going to cost.

AIn fact, the woke, virtuesignaling politicians in Albany were just signing off on these projects without even knowing how much they would cost. When then Gov. Andrew Cuomo boasted at a 2019 press conference that these massive new windmills would cost about 73 cents per month per customer, he was clearly drifting in the wind. It is estimated that by 2028, the true cost will average $3.54 per month. This is in addition to fuel, delivery and other increases that will come about. The impact on commercial users will be even greater.

Imagine if we didn’t have adequate natural gas capacity as we weathered this brutally cold winter.

Here’s what our center wrote two years ago about these potential costs, after Newsday reported that officials were signing off on these projects having no idea of their true costs:

lbany was signing off on these projects without even knowing how much they’d cost.

“The head of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, which oversees offshore wind contracts and bidding, admitted that she did not know what the total cost will be of the project for the construction of wind turbines off Suffolk County.”

You can’t make this stuff up.

So many of these pols simply wanted to placate the burgeoning wind power cottage industries — which showered them with substantial donations — and repeat the mantra that wind was clean and cheap and would save the day from fossil fuels. But as we now know, wind power isn’t cheap, and it’s not reliable.

“When asked by a Newsday reporter how much the ballyhooed Sunrise wind project will cost, she stated: ‘The total cost of the project, I defer to Orstad.’” Orstad is the private company constructing the offshore wind turbines. When the spokesperson for that company was asked the cost, she had the temerity to state: “That’s something that publicly we do not share.”

Are you kidding us?

This isn’t to say that some wind projects could not be an important supple-

ment to an “all of the above” strategy. But our legislators were making dangerously foolish decisions to block natural gas pipelines and close down upstate nuclear power plants, all while banking on the idea that solar and wind were going to save the day. They wouldn’t, and they couldn’t.

When the true price of these windmills became known, people started clutching their pearls. These policies are partly responsible for our having seen a 50 percent increase in energy rates over the past five years in New York. See our center’s white paper on this subject at cenetrforcosteffectivegivernment.org.

Now the subsidies are gone, and wiser folks are saying “no more” until we can see that wind power is truly reliable and affordable. We can have more wind projects, but they must be costeffective, and they cannot, at the present time, replace natural gas, either in cost or reliability.

The fantasy has finally come to an end.

Steve Levy is executive director of the Center for Cost Effective Government, a fiscally conservative think tank. He has served as Suffolk County executive, as a state assemblyman and as host of the podcast “On the Right Side.” He can be reached at steve@commonsensestrategies.com.

Amityville

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CHARLES DELANO - Founder

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Incorporating the Amityville Record in 2024

CAROLyN JAmES

Associate Publisher / Editor

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Sunshine week keeps democracy in the light

every March we observe Sunshine Week, a national initiative dedicated to one of democracy’s most powerful disinfectants: light. This year, Sunshine Week will be celebrated March 15 to 21, anchored by Freedom of Information Day on March 16, the birthday of James Madison. The timing is symbolic and significant. Sunshine Week reminds us that open government is not a luxury. It is a necessity.

Launched in 2005 and rooted in the pioneering 1972 Colorado Sunshine Act, Sunshine Week was created to raise awareness of the public’s right to know. At its core is a simple but profound idea: Democracy works best when the people can see what their government is doing. Transparency is not about satisfying curiosity, it’s about accountability, trust and ensuring that power remains where it belongs: with the citizens.

Sunshine Week’s foundation is the principle that government records and proceedings belong to the public. Taxpayer dollars fund government operations; therefore, the public has both a legal and moral right to understand how decisions are made and how money is spent.

Freedom of Information laws at the federal and state levels give citizens access to public documents, from village board minutes to federal agency communications. But these laws are only as strong as the public’s willingness to use them. Like muscles, transparency laws weaken without exercise. When citizens

stop requesting records, attending meetings and asking questions, secrecy grows stronger.

Open meetings and public records are not bureaucratic technicalities; they are the mechanisms that keep democracy breathing. Transparency reveals how taxpayers’ money is spent, how contracts are awarded and how policies are shaped. It enables watchdog groups, journalists and everyday citizens to trace decisions from proposal to outcome.

Without openness, the risk of waste, fraud and abuse increases. History repeatedly shows that secrecy breeds complacency and, at times, corruption. Open government, by contrast, ensures that decisions must withstand scrutiny. It does not weaken institutions — it strengthens them. Sunshine Week underscores a critical truth: When the public can see the process, officials are more likely to act responsibly.

In times of crisis — economic downturns, national security challenges or public health emergencies — secrecy often expands. Officials may argue that swift action requires less oversight. While emergencies can justify temporary discretion, they must never become permanent excuses for opacity.

Democracy demands vigilance. Sunshine Week serves as an annual reminder that transparency must be defended, especially when it feels inconvenient. Freedom of information cannot be indefinitely sidelined without eroding public trust.

Supporting Sunshine Week means protecting democracy itself. Openness prevents the concentration of unchecked power and ensures that elected officials remain responsive to citizens rather than to special interests.

Transparency helps parents question school board policies, residents examine zoning proposals and taxpayers track infrastructure spending. It provides communities with the tools to advocate for fair and effective governance.

It also allows us, as journalists, to do our jobs. We rely on open-records laws to uncover stories about misuse of funds, conflicts of interest and public safety failures. It’s why studies show that the presence of a local newspaper in a community mitigates waste, fraud and abuse.

Public trust in government is fragile. One of the most effective ways to build and sustain that trust is through transparency. When agencies proactively release information and conduct business in public view, suspicion diminishes.

Transparency does not guarantee agreement. Citizens, and government officials, may still debate policies and priorities. But openness fosters understanding, and understanding is the bedrock of trust.

So this Sunshine Week, take a moment to reflect on the importance of open meetings and public records. And vow to step up whenever someone tries to turn off the light of transparency.

It’s ‘the power of the state against the people of the nation’

To the Editor:

Re Peter King’s column, “There are better ways to resolve the immigration crisis,” in the Feb. 12-18 issue: Immigration is a problem, but Immigration and Customs Enforcement exemplifies the real, much larger crisis. Immigration is a longstanding issue, and many “better ways” have been proposed over the past 30 years, as Mr. King knows. In fact, one such proposal was on track for bipartisan approval last year until President Trump and his allies killed it.

ICE has operated for decades with little notice. Violence was seldom used, citizens were not arrested, and habeas corpus was observed — until Trump. The Border Patrol previously confined its racist brutality close to the Mexican border, until Republicans expanded the “border” to a 100-mile-wide

opinions

What does ‘academic freedom’ mean?

while the accusations and demands of the federal government against Harvard, Columbia and other elite institutions garner national headlines, the administration’s Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education offered to other universities should give further pause. The compact would confer preferred access to federal research funds in exchange for agreeing to demands that would compromise academic freedom and institutional independence.

University leaders must protect these priorities embedded in state-awarded institutional charters and regionally accredited campus mission statements. They are supported by many agreements on academic freedom and tenure, dating to 1915.

Support is also found in Supreme Court Justice Felix Frankfurter’s 1957 concurring statement in Sweezy v. new Hampshire. In it, he said, “It is the business of a university to provide that atmosphere which is most conducive to speculation, experiment, and creation. It is an atmosphere in which there prevail ‘the four essential freedoms’ of a university — to determine for itself on

Letters

academic grounds who may teach, what may be taught, how it shall be taught, and who may be admitted to study.”

But what do we mean by academic freedom? This form of freedom is not freedom from responsibility to students, colleagues, institutional mission or society. Instead, it is freedom to inquire, i.e., interrogate assumptions and assertions to expose the questions hidden by answers, as James Baldwin said, and special interests in government, media and even institutions. It is the freedom to think independently, to have rights, and to consider consequences, both intended and not.

sleadership?

urprisingly few college trustees have any professional experience in higher education.

It also is the freedom to imagine — to consider what might be, and how humanity might develop its humaneness. It is the freedom to express ideas without fear of reprisal or censorship.

Finally, it is the freedom to innovate, to realize what is imagined in new forms and methods.

We know these priorities and principles. Do we know how to protect them? How do we prepare university trustees for their roles as fiduciaries and guardians of them? How do we prepare campus presidents for their duties as “chief purpose officers” responsible for ensuring that the principles guide decisionmaking? How do we prepare faculty for their responsibilities in governance and

zone. Even then, cities were not invaded — not even El Paso or Brownsville, much less Portland or Milwaukee — until Trump.

The Department of Homeland Security pursued its intended mission: defending against 9/11 or Beirut- and Benghazi-style attacks by foreign terrorists, seldom making the news. Then Trump decided that the homeland itself — Chicago, Los Angeles, Springfield, Ill. — was the “enemy within,” rife with “domestic terrorists” like Alex Pretti, who must be prevented from voting. Meanwhile, Trump allied himself with Saudi Arabian interests, the major sources of the 9/11 and other “homeland” assaults. Remember Jamal Khashoggi.

The FBI, formerly our premier law enforcement agency, is now Trumpified, refusing to investigate homicides by federal agents, interfering with state ballots, arresting journalists and charging members of Congress with sedition. In earlier times, Peter King himself might have been among those in such felonious jeopardy. The depth, breadth and pervasiveness of corruption in all of this is obvious, with beneficiaries openly paying well for more of this new form of republican government — modeled on ancient Rome’s republic of patricians and plebes, paterfamilias all. Our government is using the power of the state against the people of the nation. That is the crisis. Currently, the best — and perhaps only — way to resolve both the crisis and the problem is to end MAGA’s abuse of government, from Blakeman and Garbarino to Vance and Trump.

BRIAn KELLy Rockville Centre

Boards of trustees are responsible for preserving academic freedom and free speech, which are necessary for teaching and scholarship that challenge assumptions and assertions. Furthermore, college and university boards have three legal duties like those of corporate boards, the duties of care, loyalty and obedience. Care means that board members must prepare diligently, participate actively and protect the institution through appropriate oversight, including guarding against external interference.

The duty of loyalty requires that board members act in good faith and in the institution’s best interests, not out of selfinterest or the interest of a particular constituency, including alumni or a governor. The duty of obedience means that boards must uphold the institution’s charter and mission, maintaining public trust through transparent stewardship.

Surprisingly, fewer than 15 percent of American college and university trustees have any professional experience in higher education. This underscores the need for rigorous orientation in academic governance, the meaning of mission and academic freedom and the highereducation landscape.

Campus presidents are too seldom

thought of as educators, the keepers of an institution’s mission and legacy for transformational teaching and learning as well as protectors of academic freedom. But they have the opportunity and responsibility to define how they fulfill their roles. Are they chief executive officers or chief mission officers?

Chief executive officers focus on size and scale, organization and delegation, short-term goals, the efficiency of means, money and markets, customers, personnel and labor. By contrast, chief mission officers focus on purpose, the long term, the integrity of ends and means, the quality of programs and services, student success, and faculty as partners in a moral enterprise. Both require balanced budgets.

The faculty is the guardian of academic standards. The curriculum is a covenant in fulfillment of the mission for student learning. This requires a focus on students, third-party quality reviews, and faculty as partners in governance and leadership. These roles require preparation and continued learning, not just memories of how mentors fulfilled their roles.

The three parties to academic governance constitute a system that is intended to support academic freedom — the freedom to inquire, imagine and innovate, in fulfillment of missions for teaching, research and service.

Dr. Robert A. Scott is president emeritus of Adelphi University and the author of “How University Boards Work.”

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.