Amityville Herald 10_15_2025

ReCORD

Special to the Herald: Amity woman recovering after being bitten by rabid raccoon... Page 3

Obituary: George Lang III Page 8

Sweet traditions and sunny skies at the Amityville Apple Festival

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD

cbabirad@liherald.com

The scent of apple pie and the sound of laughter filled downtown Amityville on Oct. 4, as the Amityville Rotary Club hosted its annual Apple Festival — a village tradition now more than half a century old.

HERALD MAssApequA

Under clear skies, families browsed rows of vendors offering homemade goods, applethemed treats and fall crafts. This year’s turnout was among the festival’s largest yet, according to Vendor Coordinator Joe Morin, who said the fair has grown far beyond its early days, when “it was just moms making pies.”

she said. “I like getting to meet so many nice people.”

Other familiar faces included Debbie Cokbilen, of Creative Woodcrafts by Deb and Al, and Lisa Terry, of Afro Gato Coffee, who offered samples of her cold brew to festivalgoers. “This is my favorite season — I love the fall,” Terry said.

Also serving Farmingdale, Massapequa, Massapequa

Local organizations also joined in, including the Bay Village Civic Association, the Amityville Junior League and the Family and Children’s Association, which shared information on free dementia and Alzheimer’s support services.

Among the standout vendors were Mary Ellen Zizzo and Ashley Kelly, the motherdaughter team behind Wrapped Up Reads, who invited visitors to pick a “blind date with a book” — a surprise novel chosen by genre and wrapped to conceal its cover.

Kay Matthews, of Nurture What Matters, showcased eco-friendly wellness products and earrings crafted entirely from recycled bicycle tires. Taylor LaPorta, of Crochet and Crafty by Taylor, said she enjoys meeting people who share an appreciation for handmade art. “I’ve been crocheting since high school,”

Rebecca Waite, of the Junior League, said the group also raised funds for the Babylon Breast Cancer Coalition ahead of its upcoming Holiday Homes Tour on Dec. 6.

For residents like Tara Scudlo, who attended with her dog, Griffin, and Sue Campbell, who came with her grandchildren, the day was about more than crafts or coffee. “It’s good to get out and see everyone again,” Scudlo said. “We come every year.”

Carolyn Dodd, president of the Amityville Rotary Club extended thanks to the Village and to the volunteers who helped make the day a success.

Judy Hartten making her apple selections

Rotary Club’s annual event was good to the core

CONTINUED FROM COVER

“It was an absolutely beautiful day and everyone worked very hard,” said Dodd, noting that the money raised from the Applefest goes to support the charitable work the club does throughout the year. “And we are grateful to all of the people who came out that day to support the Applefest as well.”

For more than 100 years the American Red Cross on Long Island has helped the community prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies. Join Us!

HONORING

COMMUNITY IMPACT HERO

Luv Michael

FIRST RESPONDER HEROES

Officers Timothy Deegan and Matthew Walling

GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP HERO

Dr. Tochi Iroku-Malize

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2025

8:00 A.M. TO 10:00 A.M.

The Heritage Club at Bethpage

DISASTER HERO

Jennifer Keane

MILITARY HERO

Mel Cohen

YOUTH HEROES

Charlie Dubofsky and Sydney Hassenbein

The American Red Cross Heroes Celebration is the signature fundraising event for the American Red Cross on Long Island, serving Nassau and Suffolk counties.

Event Co-chairs: James Quent, Greg Lavine, and Jennifer Solomon

For tickets, sponsorships, journal ads and to learn more, please visit redcross.org/LIheroes

Amityville woman recovering after being bitten by rabid raccoon

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

What began as a peaceful afternoon for a woman as she sat in her backyard enjoying the final days of summer, turned into a nightmare as a raccoon, later determined to be rabid, attacked her repeatedly, biting her hand, arm and leg.

The woman, a resident of Amityville who asked not to be identified, said she had been speaking on the phone with her daughter around 1:20 p.m. on Tuesday, August 26, when she suddenly felt something heavy land on her leg.

“It came out of nowhere,” she recalled. “I felt the weight, then the pain. The raccoon was biting and wouldn’t let go.”

As she struggled to fight off the animal, it latched onto her hand. Her screams brought her husband running from the house. He rushed between her and the raccoon, ultimately killing it before it

could attack again.

Emergency responders arrived within minutes. The woman was taken to Good Samaritan University Hospital, where she spent five days receiving rabies immunoglobulin, vaccines, antibiotics, and treatment for deep puncture wounds to her hand, leg, and foot.

Tests later confirmed the raccoon was rabid. The Suffolk County Department of Health and the state Department of Environmental Conservation have since been in contact with the family.

She said she knew immediately that the raccoon was sick.

“This raccoon was too aggressive — especially in broad daylight,” she said. “It was insane. I just keep thinking — what if it had been a child?”

Now home and recovering, the woman says she’s grateful to be alive, but the emotional scars linger. “It’s hard for me to go out in the yard,” she admitted. “I

This raccoon was too aggressive - especially in broad daylight. It was insane. I just keep thinking - what if it had been a child?

—VICTIM OF RABID RACCOON BITE

used to spend hours out there tending my flowers and vegetables. Now I can’t step outside without thinking about it. I know that fear will fade, but I’ll never forget what happened.”

Neighbors and village officials, including Amityville’s mayor, have rallied around her with flowers, kind words, and concern.

Authorities are reminding residents

to stay alert for wildlife acting aggressively or appearing unusually tame, and to report any such behavior to animal control or local police immediately.

In related matters, the Suffolk County Health Department announced last week that a sick raccoon found in Lindenhurst has tested positive for rabies. The confirmation was received from the Wadsworth Center at the New York State Department of Health. This is the eleventh rabid raccoon reported in Suffolk County this year and health officials urge the public to vaccinate pets for rabies, to refrain from feeding wildlife or stray animals and to keep garbage cans tightly covered tightly.

For questions or more information you can reach the Suffolk County Department of Health at (631) 854-0333 weekdays and at (631) 852-4820 nights, weekends and holidays.

Amityville Police meet residents for Coffee with a Cop Day

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

Members of the Amityville Village Police Department met with residents at Anchor Coffee shop on Broadway Oct. 1 at as part of Coffee with a Cop Day.

The national event, held on the first Wednesday of October, encourages casual, agenda-free conversations between police officers and the public to build trust and strengthen community relationships.

Coffee with a Cop began in 2011 in Hawthorne, California, when local offi-

cers sought an informal way to connect with residents outside of emergencies and official settings. The concept quickly spread nationwide and has since been adopted by departments across the United States and in other countries. The program’s goal is simple: give community members a chance to ask questions, share concerns and get to know the officers who serve their neighborhoods.

Police Sgt. Justin McElmoyle speaks to residents including Gerry Compitello and Wes Powell at Coffee With a Cop day.

Off-duty NYPD officer shot attempting to arrest alleged thief

An off-duty New York City police officer was stabbed early Thurs., Oct. 16 in Lindenhurst, after confronting a man who police said was trying to break into a car on 40th Street near Buffalo Avenue. According to Suffolk County police, the suspect — identified as Royal Hooks, 27, of 374 Pearl St., New York City — was allegedly attempting to break into a vehicle parked in a home’s driveway around 1:05 a.m. Two off-duty NYPD officers ap-

proached Hooks, who tried to run away, police said. When they caught up to him, Hooks allegedly stabbed one of the officers in the left leg. Hooks was restrained and taken into custody by Suffolk County police. The injured officer, 28, was taken to a local hospital with what police described as serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Hooks was charged with assault and petit larceny and was expected to be arraigned later Thursday.

NC Police Officer escorting funeral seriously injured in Lindenhurst

Suffolk County Police Major Case Unit detectives are investigating a motor vehicle crash that seriously injured an on-duty Nassau County Police officer in Lindenhurst this morning.

Nassau County Police Highway Patrol Officer Michael Hyland was operating a 2020 Harley Davidson as part of a funeral procession on North Wellwood Avenue at Jerome Street when he collided with a 2020 Toyota Tundra be -

ing operated by Jeffrey Geller at 11:08 a.m.

Officer Hyland, 53, was transported via ambulance to Good Samaritan University Hospital in West Islip for treatment of serious physical injuries where he remains in critical condition. Geller, 61, was not injured.

Anyone with information on this crash is asked to contact Major Case Unit detectives at 631-852-6555.

National Drug Hotline

Drug and alcohol helplines such as the National Drug Helpline at (844) 289-0879i are open to everyone. You can call the hotline to get information for yourself or a friend or family member.

CRIME WATCH

The following incidents have been reported by the Suffolk County Police Department and other law enforcement and emergency service units:

PETIT LARCENY

Copiague: Suffolk Police arrested Kyle Simpson, 36 of 3 Covert St., Hempstead, charging him with Petit Larceny after he allegedly went into Target on Sunrise Highway and stole $445 worth of merchandise. That incident occurred Oct. 2, at approximately 12:30 p.m.

Lindenhurst: Police report that someone stole an undetermined amount of merchandise from CVS pharmacy on Wellwood Avenue Oct. 1. The incident was reported at 5:49 p.m.

Deer Park: In two separate incidents, employees reported the theft of clothing from two stores in The Arches, Hollister an Abercrombie’s. The value of the items stolen was not listed in the police reports. Those incidents occurred within minute of each other shortly before 4 :30 pm., Sept. 27.

GRAND LARCENY

Copiague: The owner of a local business reported to police that a former employee made $2,797 in purchases on the owner’s business accounts. Police are investigating.

ARRESTS

Driving While Intoxicated/Impaired: Mario Centeno, 5-, of 119 W Orange St.,

Brentwood; Roberto Hernandez, 19, of 25 Bruce La., Brentwood; Emly Hind, 30 of 1411 7th St., West Babylon; Tito Carbo, 33, of 65 Lincoln St., Copiague; Tony Gonzalez, 19 of 499 Washington Ave., Brentwood. Criminal Mischief: Jose Gievaracoeas 27, of 733 12th St., West Babylon.

Criminal Possession of a Weapon: Jeffrey Goldstein, 28, of 831 Lake Blvd., Lindenhurst (assault weapon); Olivas Genovebo, 42, og 10169 W. Palm Dr., Odessa, Texas. Assault: Brian Louis, 26, of 998 Crooked Hill Rd., Brentwood; Cassandra Britton, 41, of 662 Grand Blvd., Deer Park; Vincent Nauheimer, 21, of 209 Secatogue La., West Islip.

Leaving the Scene of an Auto Accident: Paula Cannone, 56, of 166 Mohawk Ave., Deer Park.

Petit Larceny: Angel Moran Miranda, 25, of 1816 Stein Dr., Bay Shore; Kyle Simpson, 37, of 3 Covert St., Hempstead; Bruce Banks, 32, of 54 Maplewood Ave. Hempstead; Farah Jeannot, 48, of 52 Elmwood, Hempstead; Maria Diaz Mejia 32, of 390 Vespucci Ave., Copiague; Angel Morian Miranda, 25, of 1816 Stein Dr. Bay Shore. Tiana Spence, 24, of 53 Union Dr., Merrick; Darren Whitfield, 58, of 30 Smith St., North Amityville; Alani Trent 22 of 70 Robinwood Dr., Mastic.

Menacing With a Weapon: Nelson Sanchez, 37, of 124 S Haven Ave., Medford. Robbery: Daesean Barrett, 20, of 56 Adams Rd., Central Islip.

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Scooter rider seriously injured in car crash in Amityville

Suffolk County police are investigating a crash that seriously injured an Lindenhurst man in Amityville on Sat., Oct. 4. Police gave this account:

Richard Newton, 35, of Lindenhurst, was riding an electric scooter east on Louden Avenue around 3:30 p.m. when police said he ran a red light and collided with a 2007 Mazda traveling south on County Line Road, police said. The car was driven by

Randall Morency, 21, of Massapequa. Newton was airlifted to Stony Brook University Hospital with serious injuries. Morency was transported by ambulance to Good Samaritan University Hospital in West Islip with non-life-threatening injuries.

Detectives with the First Squad are asking anyone with information about the crash to call them at 631-854-8152.

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.

Amityville football shows some steady improvement

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

The Amityville Tide football team has embraced the 2025 season as a year of growth, energy, and opportunity.

Despite being a young squad, the Tide has already demonstrated flashes of explosiveness and promise on both sides of the ball as it continues to develop their core group of players. Head coach Jason Epps has emphasized that while experience is still being built, confidence and progress are already taking shape.

Through the first five weeks of the season, Amityville has shown steady improvement and resilience in a challenging league. After a tough 54-6 season-opening loss to a strong West Islip team, the Tide bounced back with a dominant 30-12 victory over Wyandanch on Sept. 20.

“That win really showed what our offense is capable of,” Epps said. “We executed big plays and found rhythm on both the ground and through the air.”

Although subsequent games against Rocky Point (44-19 loss on Sept. 26), Comsewogue (41-18 loss on Oct. 4), and Harborfields (20-18 loss last Friday) didn’t go Amityville’s way, each contest reflected the team’s continued fight and development. The narrow defeat to Harborfields especially showed the Tide is beginning to close the gap on opponents.

A major reason for the team’s offensive growth has been the leadership and accuracy of quarterback Jonoven Luciano.” His poise in the pocket and ability to connect with receivers has been huge for us,” said Epps. So far the quarterback has two passing touchdowns.

At running back/linebacker, Jacob Billinger has been a key two-way contributor, using his physicality to set the tone on offense and defense. In the Tide’s lone win against Wyandanch, he ran for 173 yards and four touchdowns.

Noah Robinson, a standout wide receiver/strong safety, continues to be an impact player on both sides of the ball. “His athleticism and football instincts are just incredible to watch,” Epps said of Robinson.

Perhaps the most encouraging sign for the Tide has been the improvement of its offensive line. After scoring just 70 total points

HERALD SPORTS Babylon finds success with new core group

Erik Lee/Herald

Elijah Henry and the Tide are looking to finish stong after going 1-4 through five games.

throughout the 2024 season, Amityville has already surpassed that mark with 76 through five games. Led by senior Thaddeus Volcimus, juniors Sekuo Diallo and Alex Jimenez, along with sophomore Erick Mejia Zavala, that progress up front has given Luciano more time to throw and allowed the run game to find rhythm.

With a young but improving roster, Amityville continues to develop chemistry, discipline, and consistency. As the season progresses, the Tide are determined to keep building momentum, turning flashes of explosiveness into sustained success. If their trajectory continues upward, Amityville could soon emerge as one of the league’s most dangerous rising programs.

While the Tide’s record may not yet reflect its full potential, optimism remains high. “Our league is wide open,” said Epps, maintaining confidence that the playoff race is far from over. “Every team is vulnerable, so there’s always an opportunity each week for us to get a win.”

Three games remain, including this Saturday’s homecoming contest at 1 p.m. against Eastport-South Manor.

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

Babylon’s boys’ soccer team entered the season with more questions than answers but through hard work, discipline, and a shared belief in defensive identity, the Panthers find themselves sitting atop the League IV standings with a 9-1 mark.

After graduating a large senior class, coach Dennis McGovern and his staff faced the challenge of reshaping nearly the entire roster. Only four returning players returned to lead a group of largely untested talent. What’s emerged is a resilient unit that’s learned to win by relying on effort, structure, and chemistry rather than past accolades.

“I took all the trophies away,” McGovern said. “I didn’t want them to feel like they had to live up to the past. This is their team. They don’t have to play for what came before. They have to leave their own mark.”

That message has resonated. The Panthers have rattled off a string of impressive wins, including victories over Wyandanch (2-1 Sept. 3), Riverhead Charter (2-0 Sept. 4), Smithtown Christian (8-0 Sept. 9), Greenport (6-0 Sept. 11), and Southold (2-1 Sept. 15). The only losses have come against Kings Park (2-1 non-league Sept. 22) and Southampton (2-0 Sept. 30.)

Senior goaltender Trace Serrone, now a veteran presence in net, has been a difference-maker yet again. The two-time county champion has 43 saves and 8 shutouts. He’s the best keeper in the league,” said McGovern. “It’s not even close.” His leadership has anchored a defensive mindset that’s become the team’s calling card.

Standing tall, literally, in front of him is Ronen Dee, a 6-foot-3 converted forward who’s transitioned to center back and thrived. “He used to play up top, but now he’s bought into what we’re doing,” McGovern said. “He’s a huge piece of our defense.”

The senior has still made sure to be an asset on offense and showed that in the season opener with a goal.

At the heart of the midfield, Danny Murphy provides the engine that keeps Babylon running. A relentless, box-to-box presence, Murphy is in his second varsity season and embodies the team’s motto: “Judge the season by your last performance.” He also has

proved to be a great passer, leading the team in assists with five.

Defensive stalwart John Stricoff takes on each opponent’s best player and consistently wins the battle. “He’s an exceptional athlete who is always the first to the ball,” McGovern said.

Up top, the offense has found rhythm as the season has progressed. Christian Pena leads the team in both points with 12 and goals with 8, including a thrilling game winner in double overtime, to give the Panthers a 1-0 victory over Mattituck on Oct. 8.

Youngsters like freshmen Richard Sorto and Antonio Bartolotta have stepped into key roles far earlier than expected. Sorto’s ability to win 50/50 balls and Bartalato’s skill on set pieces have made them invaluable contributors. Bartolotta specifically has made a huge impact, thanks to six goals this season, which is currently the second most on the team. Meanwhile, sophomore Logan Barrusso, who joined varsity as a ninth grader, continues to impress.

For Babylon, success isn’t measured in banners or past titles. It’s about growth, unity, and identity. “We emphasized defense, and they’ve bought into that,” said the coach. “We want them to keep working hard and make an impact every chance they get.”

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16

•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, OCTOBER 17

•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, OCTOBER 18

•Amityville Village Farmers Market: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. For more information, call (631) 264-6000. The market will be open until Oct. 25.

•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

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

gently used items. For information, call (631) 464-4899.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19

•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 OCTOBER 20

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

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21

•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 12step 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, OCTOBER 22

•Town of Babylon Town Board Meet-

ing: 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 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) 3320552 or Jill at (516) 220-7808. All calls are confidential.

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

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

Copiague C of C General Dinner Meeting

The Copiague Chamber of Commerce will be hosting their General Dinner Meeting on Oct. 28, featuring speaker, NY State Senator Alexis Weik at the Copiague Fire Department at 6:30 p.m.

Discussions will include legislative updates impacting small businesses, resources for state programs, workforce development, economic growth and community well-being. This meeting is open to Copiague

Chamber members as well as members of Lindenhurst and Amityville Chambers of Commerce.

The cost is $40 per person and includes buffet dinner, dessert, beer, wine, soda and coffee.

Copiague Fire Department is located at 320 Great Neck Road, Copiague. Please RSVP at info@copiaguechamber.org

For more information, please call (631) 484-2677.

George M. Lang, III, longtime Amityville volunteer firefighter

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

For nearly six decades, George M. Lang served his hometown as a dedicated volunteer with the Amityville Fire Department. His commitment came from a place of deep community pride, said his wife, Ann Lang. “He just had a strong sense of commu-

nity, and he loved Amityville,” she said.

Mr. Lang, a lifelong village resident, died in the line of duty after responding to a fire department call for help earlier in the day of Sept. 23. He was 76.

“My father was the best, my hero,” said his son George IV. “He was supportive, dependable and loved the Village.”

An electrician by trade, Mr. Lang maintained lifelong friends within the department, from school and throughout

the Village. “I can’t think of anyone in Amityville that he did not help in some way,” said his son.

Throughout his career, he rose through the ranks to serve as Chief of Department from 1986 to 1988, and at the time of his passing, was an instructor with the Suffolk County Fire Academy.

“His service and demeanor will be sorely missed in our department,” said Amityville Fire Chief Stephen Juliano.

“He was a mentor to most, a genuine person and a true firefighters’ firefighter.”

Juliano said Mr. Lang’s legacy will live on in the department for years to come.

George Fraker, a fellow firefighter and friend, first met Lang in September 1974.

“Right away, George was a teacher and a leader,” Fraker recalled in a memorial post. “George nominated me for 2nd Lieutenant a few short years later, and I had the privilege of watching him rise through the ranks and become Chief of Department.”

“My brother George was truly one of the good ones, said Mr. Lang’s sister Claudia Neville. “He served his community and family with dedication, and even in death, he continued to give by donating his organs. He was a deep thinker—never one to make a rash decision. We shared a special bond as brother and sister, one that I’ll always treasure. His absence leaves a deep void in our hearts, and we are truly heartbroken by this loss.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Lang is survived by his children, George IV and his wife Anne, and Jillian Rein and her

George M. Lang, III, firefighter

husband William; his grandchildren, Ian Berry and his wife Gabrielle, Kellen Lang, Teigen Lang, William Rein and Conor Rein; and his great-granddaughter, Eliana Berry.

His brother, Robert Lang, and his sisters, Cynthia Johnson and her husband Donald, and Claudia Neville and her husband Michael, also survive him, along with many loving nieces, nephews and friends.

The Amityville Fire Department held departmental services on Saturday, Sept. 26 at Powell & Sons Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial followed

the next day at St. Martin of Tours R.C. Church. After the Mass, family, friends and fellow firefighters processed by fire apparatus to the department headquarters, where Mr. Lang answered his last alarm.

Cremation was private.

The family requests that memorial contributions be made in Mr. Lang’s name to: AFD Cares, P.O. Box 725, Amityville, NY 11701

Lt. Joseph P. DiBernardo Memorial Foundation – Firefighter Grants & Training, P.O. Box 1934, Miller Place, NY 11764 or online at joeydfoundation.org.

Forum to focus on empowering women in fight against Alzheimer’s

With women making up two-thirds of all Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease — and two-thirds of the family members caring for them — the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America is inviting Long Islanders to a free forum aimed at education and empowerment.

Women & Alzheimer’s: The Empowerment Forum 2025 will take place Wednesday, Nov. 5, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at The Villas at Dominican Village’s Helen Butler Hall, 565 Albany Ave., Amityville. Doors open at 8:45 a.m. for breakfast, exhibits and free memory screenings. Registration is available at alzfdn.org/WEF2025

The event will explore Alzheimer’s disproportionate impact on women, offering ways to reduce risk, plan for long-term care and improve quality of life. It will include three panel discussions — featuring medical researchers, legal and care professionals, and care-

givers — as well as interactive exhibits and question-and-answer sessions.

Panelists include Columbia University neuropsychologist Dr. Stephanie Cosentino, NYU emergency medicine specialist Dr. Ula Hwang, and NYU nursing researcher Dr. Bei Wu. Other speakers include elder law attorney Stephanie Alberts, Stony Brook healthcare administrator Daphne Perry, and caregiver advocates Alicia Evans and Cary Lopez.

“Women are at the epicenter of the Alzheimer’s crisis — as caregivers, advocates, and the majority of those diagnosed,” said Charles J. Fuschillo Jr., president and chief executive of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.

“This forum is about turning awareness into action.”

For more information or to register, visit alzfdn.org/WEF2025 or call (866) 232-8484.

See if you have unclaimed funds

The New York State Comptroller’s Office of Unclaimed Funds returns more than $2 million in lost money to residents every day, according to Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli.

Unclaimed funds stem from sources such as dormant bank accounts, uncashed checks, utility deposits, trust funds and unused gift cards.

Now, staff from the comptroller’s office will be attending events in this area to answer questions and help residents search for and claim their lost funds. They will be at the Lindenhurst Memorial Library from 1 to 2 p.m., on Wed., Oct 22. The library is at 1 Lee Ave., Lindenhurst, and at the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park, 63 Larrabee Ave., Oyster Bay (at the Oyster Bay Fest 2025) on Oct. 18 and 19, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

“We’re returning more than $2 million

HERALD

a day to New Yorkers, and my office is working to make it easier than ever to reclaim lost money, including mailing some checks directly to their rightful owners,” DiNapoli said.

A new law championed by DiNapoli has sped up the return process for some accounts. Since January, the comptroller’s office has been mailing checks automatically to eligible individuals for newly reported accounts valued at $250 or less. As of September, nearly 106,000 checks worth more than $9.8 million have been issued. New Yorkers can also check for unclaimed funds or file a claim through the online claiming system or by calling 1-800221-9311.

A map showing unclaimed funds by county and region, as well as other information is available at osc.ny.gov/unclaimed-funds.

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ATTENTION STUDENTS: THE HERALD IS HOLDING A CONTEST TO DESIGN HOLIDAY WRAPPING PAPER

THE WINNING DESIGNS WILL BE PRINTED AS HOLIDAY GIFT WRAP IN 12/4/25 & 12/11/25 ISSUES OF YOUR HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Who can enter: There will be 2 categories:

Students in grades k-5. Students in 6-12

One entry per student

Deadline: Entries must be received by 5 p.m.

Friday, October 31, 2025

Grand prize: Winners will have their design printed as wrapping paper in the Herald and will be featured in an article in their local Herald newspaper.

Entry format: Please use an 8 1/2 by 11 inch piece of unlined paper. All entries should have the student’s name, age, address, telephone number, email, grade and school printed on the back. Design can be reflective of all religious holidays. Entries will not be returned.

Mail or hand-deliver to:

Wrapping Paper Contest

Herald Community Newspapers

2 Endo Boulevard, Garden City, NY 11530 OR Scan and email to: ekimbrell@liherald.com

(No Photos of Artwork Will Be Accepted).

Winners will be notified by email or phone by November 14

HELPFUL HINTS

• Must use 8 1/2 x 11” unlined paper, copy paper or construction paper.

• Be creative & original.

• Use bright colors.

• Fill the entire page.

• Choose paint, crayon, chalk, markers, pens, or other creative materials.

• Remember your design will be used to make a real sheet of wrapping paper.

HERALD NEIGHBORS

NOT Ms. Rachel to bring songs, stories and smiles to Adventureland Massapequa mom Gabrielle

Freeman brings hit kids’ show to life with Long Island twist

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com

The hit children’s program that has toddlers and preschoolers singing and clapping from coast to coast now has a local spin, thanks to a Massapequa mom who’s made it her mission to bring joy and learning to Long Island families.

Gabrielle Freeman is the creator of the NOT Ms. Rachel Show — an interactive, in-person experience inspired by the popular YouTube series “Songs for Littles” — and she’ll be bringing her energy, stories and songs to Adventureland in Farmingdale on Saturday, Oct. 18, from noon to 3 p.m. as part of the park’s Fall into Savings lineup.

The Herald caught up with Freeman to learn more about what inspired her to create the show, what makes it different from what kids see on screens, and what families can expect at Adventureland.

What are you most excited for with your shows at Adventureland?

I love the number of kids that are there. It makes it more interactive and fun. I love meeting all the new kids and really getting to see their excitement.

What first inspired you to start the NOT Ms. Rachel Show?

A friend of mine has a younger daughter. My girls are a bit older, so they didn’t really know who Ms. Rachel was. But I was visiting, and her daughter was watching, and I thought — wow, I really look like her. And my friends all agreed.

I said, “How cool would it be to do parties and bring that kind of joy to little kids locally?” I just decided that day to go for it. I’ve always loved working with children. I have three daughters — my youngest is eight, her name is Maeve. My middle daughter is turning 10 this month, Cyleigh. And my oldest is 14 — her name is Nyiela.

Tell me a little about your background.

I started working in early childhood at a young age. In high school, I worked in daycares, and now I’m in a master’s program for social work. When I finish, I plan to keep working

with kids. I also perform as other characters, including Stitch. I’m building slowly, and I hope to eventually incorporate more social-emotional learning into the shows as I progress through my degree and become licensed.

Tell me about your show — how is it different from the Ms. Rachel show on TV?

I usually start with a readaloud, but it depends on the age group and how many kids are there. We do a set of songs, and I always take requests from the kids. I want to include their favorite things so they really get the most out of the experience.

The interaction is my favorite part. Ms. Rachel is on the screen, so it’s not face-to-face. My show is different because I’m right there with the kids. I’ll ask them questions about songs, have them sing parts with me, or ask things like, “What does a cow say?” If they’re old enough to interact, I bring them right into the show.

What has been the best feedback you’ve received from the show?

I love when families send me messages and pictures afterward. When someone tells me how special it was to have me there, it means a lot. I’m always surprised at how much it moves people. It really does make it all worth it.

Sometimes, I think the parents are even more excited than the kids — especially when the children very young. And grandparents too! They love it.

To learn more about the NOT Ms. Rachel Show, follow @Not_ Ms_Rachel on Instagram.

Freeman’s upcoming shows at Adventureland are part of the park’s Fall into Savings program. Admission is discounted to $34.50 plus tax per person and includes the live show, access to a free pumpkin patch and free pumpkin decorating (one pumpkin per child). For tickets and details, visit Adventureland.us Tickets are available online or at the park.

Adventureland is located at 2245 Broad Hollow Road (Route 110) in Farmingdale.

Courtesy/Adventureland

In the photos: Gabrielle Freeman, also known as NOT Ms. Rachel, is shown at some of her recent events. She is bringing her live show to Adventureland Oct. 18 as part of the park’s Fall into Savings program.

Some vanished, some survive - and one may be roaming a Southern swamp

Since Indigenous Peoples Day just passed, let’s look at dog breeds that originated with native North Americans before any European influence. Most of these pre-Columbian breeds are extinct, but their DNA helped shape the surviving indigenous breeds.

Pets, Pets, Pets...

As long as 40,000 years ago, dogs descended from an extinct population of Pleistocene wolves, sharing over 99 percent of their DNA with gray wolves today. That remaining 1 percent makes an enormous difference. Natural and human selection within that tiny percent produced more variation in dogs than in any other mammal.

JOANNE ANDERSON

Domesticated dogs accompanied the first people crossing from Siberia over the Bering land bridge about 15,000 years ago. They hunted, herded, pulled sleds and travois, provided wool and companionship — and, at times, food.

Evidence of the human-canine bond dates back nearly 10,000 years. In Utah’s Danger Cave, archaeologists found a small pup buried with a human — wrapped in woven fabric and placed under the person’s left arm.

TWO EXTINCT NATIVE BREEDS:

Beginning in the 1500s, European dogs brought new diseases to North America that native breeds weren’t equipped to resist. The Coast Salish tribe of southwestern British Columbia developed the Salish

Wool Dog, using its hair to weave blankets. Hare Indian Dogs — also extinct — were known as Trap Line Dogs, used to check beaver traps. These Collie-like canids were gentle companions to the Hare Indians of northeast Canada.

THREE NATIVE BREEDS THAT STILL EXIST:

Alaskan Malamute: Bred by the Malimiut Inuit of Alaska’s Norton Sound region for strength and endurance in hauling sleds. The Malamute shares genetic markers with the Siberian husky and Chukotka Sled Dog, an aboriginal Spitz-type breed from Siberia.

Canadian Eskimo Dog: A working Arctic breed, also called qimmiq — Inuit for “dog.” The Greenland Dog is considered the same breed because their genetic markers are nearly identical. Both trace to the Thule people of Siberia, who used them for transport. Today, the preference for snowmobiles has left the Canadian Eskimo Dog nearly extinct.

Carolina Dog: Also known as the American or Dixie Dingo, this medium-sized, yellow dog from the southeastern United States sometimes lives feral. With pointed ears, a hooked tail and a jackal-like frame, the breed likely descends from canines that traveled with Paleo-Indians over the Bering land bridge. Some still roam wild in the cypress swamps near the South Carolina–Georgia border.

DNA testing at the University of Georgia

supports that Carolina Dogs descend from Asian pariah dogs. Interestingly, females have three heat cycles in succession — unlike the usual two — possibly an adaptation for quick breeding before disease takes its toll. Last Hope Animal Rescue has saved Carolina Dogs from Kentucky, Virginia and West Virginia, noting their gentle temperaments.

PETS FOR ADOPTION AT BABYLON ANIMAL SHELTER

Speaking of Siberian Huskies, Kenya (No. 25-356) is a female 4-year-old purebred with striking blue eyes. Meanwhile, Starling (No. 5-448) is a 6-month-old tortoiseshell kitten. The shelter’s October promotion offers $10 off the adoption fee for any cat or kitten. Regular fees are $65 for cats and kittens, or $35 for adopters age 60 or older.

The Babylon Animal Shelter is at 80 New Highway in North Amityville. Call (631) 643-9270 for more information.

The Carolina dog is a breed believed to be descended from dogs that accompanied people who crossed the Bering land bridge from Siberia to North America 15,000 years ago.

STEPPING OUT

At the mock store modeled after Freeport’s Two Cousins Fish Market, kids role play as fishmongers and customers.

Visitors are introduced to the exhibit’s many components.

THE SEA IS CALLING

Children’s Museum’s ‘Saltwater Stories’ is rooted in local maritime traditions

By Abbey Salvemini

Long Island Children’s Museum sets sail on a bold new chapter with “Saltwater Stories: We Need the Sea and the Sea Needs Me,” its first new permanent exhibition in over a decade. The 1,900-square-foot immersive installation, which officially opened last week, invites families to explore Long Island’s rich nautical heritage, celebrating the people, traditions and cultures that have long relied on the sea.

Our coastal identity comes to life through storytelling, interactive play and local traditions. Kids (and grown-ups!) can climb into a full-size bay house, sort the day’s catch in a bustling fish market, explore the wonders under the sea and even hop inside a 500-pound hand-carved canoe. That canoe — a mishoon (Indigenous dugout canoe) commissioned by the museum — was created through the collaboration of Shinnecock Cultural Steward Chenae Bullock, her mentor Darius Coombs of the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe and apprentice Shane Weeks of the Shinnecock Nation. Welcomed by the museum in June, it now takes up residence within “Saltwater Stories.”

A culmination of more than 15 years of museum programming and partnerships with local fishermen, Indigenous communities and historians, it anchors Long Island’s past to its future with creativity and care. The concept first took shape several years ago, sparked by the museum’s long-running partnerships with tradition bearers and a desire to give families a more personal connection to the natural world around them.

Museum President Erika Floreska describes the exhibit as “authentic, playful and beautiful.”

Director of Exhibits Margo Malter traces its roots back to weekend programs begun in 2009, when local baymen and fishermen shared firsthand stories about life on the water. Over the years, those early conversations grew into a deeper exploration of Long Island’s maritime culture. The turning point came in 2019, when the museum received a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. That funding allowed the team to assemble a cohort of community advisors — fisherfolk, Indigenous leaders, historians, and educators — whose voices helped shape Saltwater’s foundation.

“We like to say the exhibit is informed by community, for the community,” Floreska adds.

From the stories of generations of baymen to the bustling fish markets of the Nautical Mile, the exhibit’s components are rooted in the everyday lives of Long

Anthony Rodia

Anthony Rodia is back with his “Laugh Till It Hurts” tour. Building on the success of his previous outing, this is his biggest and most ambitious yet. Born and raised in Westchester, Rodia came out of the womb making people laugh. In his 20s he tried a few open mics, but ultimately took a different career path. In 2019, Rodia returned to comedy and left his day job to become a full-time stand-up comic. With a background steeped in family traditions, Italian-American culture and the ups and downs of modern life, Anthony’s comedy feels like a conversation with your funniest friend. His blend of observational humor, self-deprecation and witty impressions has led him on his path as one of the most exciting rising stars on the comedy scene.

Saturday, Oct. 18, 7 and 9:30 p.m.

Islanders past and present. It also highlights the connections between the traditions of immigrant communities who share seaside cultures, offering opportunities for shared experiences and dialogue.

Visitors are welcomed by a nine-foot high immersive, stylized wave tunnel. Visible from the three entries to the museum’s second floor, this wow-moment hooks you into the gallery and recreates that first introduction to the sea for many of us — a day at the beach. Lighting and sound effects give a transportive transition into “Saltwater Stories.”

• Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Among the exhibit’s many features, young visitors can role-play life on the bay in a walkin replica of a bay house, where a “magic window” lets them observe real-time changes in weather, tides and marsh life. Nearby, in a classic Long Island fish market, you can sort, weigh and sell the day’s catch — mimicking the work of generations who lived off the sea. Also everyone will enjoy “Lifting the Ocean’s Lid,” an early learner area where kids can get a close-up look at what lives under the sea.

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

• Long Island Children’s Museum, Museum Row, Garden City

For Floreska, Saltwater’s heart lies in its ability to tell a local story while providing a playful, hands-on space that’s deeply connected to the real world — something she describes as both unique and meaningful.

“It gives visitors of all ages a chance to connect with a cultural richness that defines Long Island,” she says.

Integrating new technology felt like a natural next step in the evolution of the museum’s approach to storytelling, according to Malter. She highlights the bay house installation as a standout example, where digital features are used to make the environment feel dynamic and real.

To create the immersive “magic window,” the team hired a videographer to capture time-lapse footage of a local marsh over the course of several days, including scenes at night and during a storm. With the push of a button, kids can change the view outside the window — transforming from day to night or calm to stormy — making the experience both magical and grounded in the real world.

“Observing the natural world was a big educational goal for me,” Malter explains. By blending real footage with playful interaction, young visitors notice environmental details they might otherwise overlook — fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity rooted in the rhythms of local life.

The phrase “we need the sea and the sea needs me” serves as the exhibit’s guiding inspiration.

Even the quintessential Long Island Islander — Billy Joel — has a place here. Everyone can watch a video of his “The Downeaster ‘Alexa’,” commercial fishing’s unofficial anthem.

To help families turn inspiration into action, a resource guide on the museum website provides ideas for local, family-friendly activities that extend the learning into the home. Floreska points to community programs like Freeport-based “Operation Splash,” where families can participate in cleaning up local shorelines.

As a permanent fixture now, “Saltwater Stories” continues the museum’s commitment to ignite curiosity, encourage stewardship and strengthen our bond with the environment — reminding us all that the sea’s story is deeply intertwined with our own.

$144.75, $108.75, $98.25, $86.50, $76.25, $64.75. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com.

Nassau Pops Symphony Orchestra

Maestro Louis Panacciulli and the Nassau Pops Orchestra return to the Tilles Center for their annual gala supporting the Cerebral Palsy Association of Nassau County, joined again by Tony Danza and his band. Danza’s latest cabaret show, “Sinatra and Stories,” blends personal anecdotes, humor and some classic tunes. He pays tribute to the music of ‘Ol Blue Eyes, whose music formed the soundtrack of his childhood. He brings his trademark charisma and storytelling — along with touch of soft shoe and ukulele-strumming — to his selection of Sinatra’s timeless classics. Swing into an afternoon of great tunes and fascinating stories — all to benefit this vital organization.

Sunday, Oct. 19, 3 p.m. Tickets start at $30. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post Campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at npso.org/tickets or tillescenter.org.

YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD CALENDAR

OCT

16

Wendy Klemperer: Wrought Taxonomies

Vanderbilt Museum welcomes everyone to enjoy the exhibition of outdoor sculpture at the historic summer estate of William Kissam Vanderbilt II. Klemperer’s sculptures. a haunting assemblage of animal forms that span imaginary, endangered, familiar, and exotic species, celebrate natural history and the nonhuman world through evocative interactions with the surrounding environment. Using materials salvaged from scrapyards, she composes ecological narratives that respond to the history and collections of Suffolk County’s first public park and museum. Her brilliant use of gestural lines captures the spectator’s attention and invites museum-goers to reflect on the relationship between an interest in animal life and the incessant push of human industry. Visitors are encouraged to picnic on the grounds.

• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport

• Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

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

Billy Joel Exhibit is ‘Movin’ Out’

Now is your last chance to catch the Billy Joel Exhibit at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame. The exhibit, ‘Billy Joel: My Life, A Piano Man’s Journey,’ closes Oct. 26. Billy Joel fans are encouraged to purchase their tickets in advance as it is anticipated that many days will sell out.

• Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook

• Time: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

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

OCT 17

Owl Prowl

Visit the Vanderbilt Museum for a fascinating session on creatures of the night. Learn how to identify owls and their calls with wildlife biologist “Ranger Eric” Powers of the Center for Environmental Education and Diversity. Ranger Eric gives a fun presentation and lead a walk on the estate to look for owls. Participants should wear comfortable shoes as the walk will be on uneven ground. Registration required. $15.

• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport

• Time: 7 p.m., also Nov. 15 and Nov 20, 6 p.m.

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

OCT 25

Little Feat

One of America’s most distinctive and longest-running rock bands, Little Feat is back in a big way with a revitalized lineup, a stellar new record — its first album of original material in over a decade The venerable six-piece is touring in support of ‘Strike Up the Band,” their first new studio album reliant on new material since 2012’s Rooster Rag. It’s Little Feat’s triumphant return to rock ‘n roll with plenty of swampy Southern soul. The band builds on a deep, over 50-year history. Little Feat used a combination of elite musicianship and brilliant, idiosyncratic songwriting to create a repertoire that transcends all boundaries. California rock, funk, folk, jazz, country and rockabilly mixed with New Orleans swamp boogie led to a powerful sound that has kept the audience dancing for decades. Their groove — in songs like “Dixie Chicken,” “Spanish Moon,” “Fat Man in the Bathtub,” and “Feats Don’t Fail Me Now” — was so infectious it allowed them to endure and press on even when losing their founder, Lowell George, and founding drummer, Richie Hayward. They’re in top form now with Scott Sharrard on lead/vox and Tony Leone on drums/vox, and with founder Bill Payne on keys/vox, Fred Tackett on guitars/vox, Kenny Gradney on bass, and Sam Clayton on percussion/vox. Fifty years on, they’ve been up and they’ve been down and they know where they belong — standing or sitting behind their instruments, playing for you. And anything’s possible, because the end is not in sight. Tickets are $141.25, $120.25, $99.75, $77.75, $66.25

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

• Time: 8 p.m.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

OCT 18

2025 Thomas H. Smith Ragamuffin Parade

Don’t miss the annual Ragamuffin Parade, sponsored by the Amityville PBA. Parade begins at 9/11 Memorial Park.

• Where: 259 Broadway, Amityville

• Time: 10 a.m.

• Contact: (631) 264-6000

Farmers Market

The Amityville Village Farmers Market is ongoing Saturdays until Oct. 25 at First United Methodist Church.

• Where: 25 Broadway, Amityville

• Time: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

• Contact: (631) 264-6000

First United Methodist Church’s Fall Fling

The First United Methodist Church hosts their Fall Fling with a farmers market, craft and artisan vendors. Vendors are needed. 10x10 vendor spots are available for $50.

• Where: 25 Broadway, Amityville

• Time: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

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

Annual Shred and E-Waste Recycling Event

Start gathering your old documents and electronics. Councilman DuWayne Gregory hosts 6th Annual Shred Event. This year the town is excited to introduce E-Waste Collection alongside the paper shredding service. In addition to securely shredding sensitive documents, residents may bring unwanted electronics for safe recycling. Everyone is encouraged to also bring non- perishable food items for the pantry for the food collection drive taking place at the same time.

Rain date is Oct. 25.

• Where: Babylon Town Hall Parking Lot (West Side), 200 E. Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst

• Time: 9-11 a.m.

• Contact: (631) 957-3000

Town of Babylon Fall Festival

Enjoy the season at the Town of Babylon’s Fall Festival at Tanner Park. This family-friendly celebration features hayrides, live music, delicious food trucks, a pumpkin patch and plenty of festive fun for all ages. Free admission

• Where: 400 Baylawn Ave., Copiague

• Time: 4-7 p.m.

• Contact: (631) 893-2100

Halloween Movie Night

Get into the Halloween spirit when the Town of Babylon hosts a special outdoor screening of “Halloweentown” at Tanner Park. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and family for a magical night under the stars. This event is free and popcorn and treats will be available. Costumes are encouraged.

• Where: 400 Baylawn Ave., Copiague.

• Time: 7 p.m.

• Contact: (631) 893-2100

OCT 19

Science of Spirituality meditation session

Stop by Science of Spirituality for a meditation and spiritual gathering with video selections and readings, followed by a vegetarian meal weekly on Sundays.

• Where: 79 County Line Road, Amityville

• Time: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

• Contact: Stephanie Goldreyer at (631) 822-7979 ext. 3 or infotristate@sos.org

Eagles Nest and the Vanderbilts’ Treasures Take an intriguing walking

tour of the Vanderbilt Estate with knowledgeable museum educators. Learn about the history of the Eagle’s Nest estate; Warren & Wetmore’s design and exterior architectural details of the 24room Spanish Revival mansion; also the striking ironwork of Samuel Yellin, considered the greatest iron artisan of the early 20th century, and visit the marine, natural history, and cultural artifact collections. $16, $15 seniors/students, $14 children 5-17.

• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport

• Time: Noon and 1:15 p.m.

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

OCT

Amityville Fire Department

Blood Drive

The Amityville Fire Department hosts a Critical Need Blood Drive.

• Where: Amityville Fire Department, 55 W. Oak St., Amityville

• Time: 4-8:30 p.m.

• Contact: donate.nybc.org/ donor/schedules/drive_ schedule/326985

Computer Kindergarten for Grownups

Amityville Public Library offers slow-paced, user-friendly class for first-time computer users. Using Windows computers, this unique class covers the basics in a way that even the most inexperienced user will understand. The class will cover turning the computer on, the desktop, using the mouse, opening and closing programs, understanding windows elements, getting out of trouble, and turning the computer off. There are no prerequisites. Registration required.

• Where: 19 John St., Amityville

• Time: 6:30-8:30 p.m.

• Contact: amityvillepubliclibrary. org or (631) 264-0567

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.

Notice of Formation of SHOREBOUND USA LLC

Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on August 4, 2025. Office located in Suffolk County, NY.

SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail a copy of any process served against the LLC to: Mike Mulcahy, 455 Sunrise Hwy, Ste 1, West Islip, NY 11795. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

25-387. 9/24, 10/1, 8, 15, 22, 29

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 Asset-Backed 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 November 7, 2025 at 9:00AM 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) 400-9633. Richard Lavorata, Jr., Referee

FRENKEL LAMBERT WEISS WEISMAN & GORDON LLP

53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 25-394. 10/8, 15, 22, 29

Legal Notice Application of Richard Handler on behalf of Louis Albanese.  Applicant seeks a variance to expand on the existing nonconforming side yard setback where 3 feet exists and 12 feet is required associated with a proposed twostory rear addition and extension pursuant to Section 183-51 of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the West side of Unqua Place approximately 62.5 feet South of Richmond Avenue in a “Residential B” District known as 7 Unqua Place a/k/a SCTM# 101-13-14-2.

By order of the Zoning Board of Appeals, Village of Amityville Catherine Murdock, Clerk/Treasurer  25-397. 10/8,15

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE TOWN OF BABYLON

Public Notices — Your right to know

ACCESSORY APARTMENT REVIEW BOARD

Pursuant to provisions of Local Law # 9 of the Babylon Town Code, notice is hereby given that the Town of Babylon Accessory Apartment Review Board will hold a public hearing in the Town Board Meeting Room in the East Wing of Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York on Tuesday eve, October 21st, 2025. Public hearings begin 6:00pm. NEW APPLICATIONS

•Asif Chhina 161 N. 20th Street Wheatley Heights, NY 11798

SCTM#0100-13-358 •Ilhami S. Kocabiyik 15 Mida Court West Babylon, NY 11704

SCTM#0100-102502-329

•Patrick Cajou 4 Johnson Street N. Amityville, NY 11701

SCTM#0100-172-185.001

Printing Instructions: RENEWALS BY AFFIDAVIT APPLICANTS, ARE NOT REQUIRED TO APPEAR. ALL NEW CASES WILL BE HEARD IN THE ORDER IN WHICH THEY ARE ADVERTISED. All interested persons should appear at the above time and place by order of Sandra Thomas, Chairperson, Accessory Apartment Review Board, Town of Babylon, North Lindenhurst, Suffolk County, New York. Amityville Record: Wednesday, October 15th, 2025 25-398. 10/15

Notice of Formation of Amityville Psychotherapy Mental Health Counselling PLLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/19/2025

Office location, County of Suffolk. SSNY has been designated as agent of the PLLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail a process served to: THE LLC 85 BROADWAY, SUITE C

AMITYVILLE, NY, 11701, USA Purpose: any lawful act.

25-396. 10/8, 15, 22, 29, 11/5, 12

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, October 22, 2025 at 6:00pm NEW

APPLICATION

1. Anthony Cusicanqui 26 Cambridge St. Deer Park NY 11729

SCTM NO: 0100-26-3-22 2. Valsamma Verghese 15 Toysome Lane Deer Park NY 11729

SCTM NO: 0100-91-2-34

3. 928 N. Richmond Ave LLC 928 N. Richmond Ave. Lindenhurst NY 11757

SCTM NO: 0100156-1-7

4. Theophilus Godwin 63 Spruce St.

Wyandanch NY 11798

SCTM NO: 0100-83-2-69.003

5. Concetta Leonardi & Phyllis Rios

29 Smith St. Deer Park NY 11729

SCTM NO: 0100-21-4-81

6. Stavroula Boutsis

1023 3rd St. West Babylon NY 11704

SCTM NO: 0100-134-1-4 RENEWALS

1. Daniel Wolfe 24 Croydon Rd. Amityville NY 11701

SCTM NO: 0100-174-3-111

2. Raymond Wardell

21 Ronek Dr. Copiague NY 11726

SCTM NO: 0100-175-1-82

3. Raymond Wardell

18 Emerald Lane N Amityville NY 11701

SCTM NO: 0100174-3-42

4. Raymond Wardell 22 Emerald Lane N.

Amityville NY 11701

SCTM NO: 0100-174-3-40

5. Raymond Wardell

35 Madison Ave. N. Amityville NY 11701

SCTM NO: 0100164-3-51

6. Raymond Wardell

419 Albany Ave. Amityville NY 11701

SCTM NO: 0100-170-3-28

7. Squalino LLC

253 Riviera Dr. E. Lindenhurst NY 11757

SCTM NO: 0100-186-2-101 25-399. 10/15

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

Pursuant to Chapter 186, Site Plan Review, and Chapter 213, Zoning, of the Babylon Town Code and Section 276 of the Town Law, notice is hereby given that the Town of Babylon Planning Board will hold public and/ or informational hearings(s) at the Babylon Town Hall, Town Board Room, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York, on the Monday, October 20, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. prevailing time or as soon thereafter as can be heard to consider the following application(s): PUBLIC HEARING/SITE PLAN REVIEW/ SUBDIVISION/ CHANGE OF ZONE

JOB# 24-55ABE; West Babylon Manor, Inc.: SCTM# - 0100-213-01005 & 0100-21301-004.003: Zone – Senior Citizen Multiple Residence (SCMR) and A Residence: SEQRA – Unlisted Action, Uncoordinated Review: Applicant proposes to subdivide an existing A –Residence zoned parcel into two, in order to maintain an existing singlefamily dwelling on Lot 1; On Lot 2, rezone to SCMRSenior Citizen Multiple Residential, in order to construct a garage and merge with an adjacent SCMR complex.: Property is located on the north side of Elmwood Road, 295’ west of NYS Route 109, West Babylon, Suffolk County, Town of Babylon, New York

PUBLIC

HEARING/MINOR

SUBDIVISION JOB# 25-09B; G&R

Building Corp.: SCTM# 0100-12103-076: Zone –Residence B: SEQRA – Unlisted Action, Uncoordinated Review: Applicant proposes to subdivide a parcel totaling 11,714sf into two (2) 5,857sf lots in order to construct two (2) new twostory, single-family dwellings.: Property is located on the east side of Monroe Street, 101.32’ north of Lincoln Avenue, Farmingdale, 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: 10-15-25 25-401. 10/15

When someone stops advertising, someone stops selling. When someone stops selling, someone stops buying. When someone stops buying, someone stops making. When someone stops making, someone stops working. When someone stops working, someone stops earning. When someone stops earning, everything stops.

STATE OF NEW YORK SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF SUFFOLK _______ U.S. BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS SUCCESSOR

TRUSTEE TO BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., AS SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO LASALLE BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR THE HOLDERS OF SALOMON BROS MORTGAGE SECURITIES VII, INC. MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 1997-HUD2, Plaintiff, -vs- JOHN M. JACKSON; Any unknown heirs to the Estate of BERDINE IVORY next of kin, devisees, legatees, distributees, grantees, assignees, creditors, lienors, trustees, executors, administrators or successors in interest, as well as the respective heirs at law, next of kin, devisees, legatees, distributees, grantees, assignees, lienors, trustees, executors, administrators or successors in interest of the aforesaid classes of persons, if they or any of them be dead, all of whom and whose names and places of residence are unknown to the plaintiff; Any unknown heirs to the Estate of THEODIS WELLS next of kin, devisees, legatees, distributees, grantees, assignees, creditors, lienors, trustees, executors, administrators or successors in interest, as well as the respective heirs at law, next of kin, devisees, legatees, distributees, grantees, assignees, lienors, trustees, executors, administrators or successors in interest of the aforesaid classes of persons, if they or any of them be dead, all of whom and whose names and places of residence are unknown to the plaintiff; STACEY AN -

NETTE GOODMAN A/K/A STACEY A. TUCKER A/K/A

STACEY A. JACKSON A/K/A STACEY IVORY, if living, and if she be dead, her respective heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest, and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise, any right, title or interest in and to the premises; LONZELL N. IVORY SR.; CUNNOR DEAN

IVORY A/K/A CONNOR D. IVORY, if living, and if she be dead, her respective heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest, and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise, any right, title or interest in and to the premises;

KAYMEL IVORY; DAVID L. IVORY; RACHEL LOMINI

A/K/A RACHEL GRAVES; BEULAH J. IVORY; SHERRON DE BOOKHART; JAMES L. IVORY; JEROME M. IVORY; PATRICIA ANN ARMSTRONG

A/K/A PATRICIA IVORY; WILLIAM IVORY; RONZELL ZELL IVORY; JOHN M. JACKSON JR.; PRINCE G. IVORY; JENNIFER ANN WELLS, if living, and if she be dead, her respective heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in in-

terest, and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise, any right, title or interest in and to the premises; JOE WILLIE WELLS; NORTHSTAR CAPITAL ACQUISITION LLC; CLERK OF THE SUFFOLK COUNTY DISTRICT COURT; CLERK OF THE SUFFOLK COUNTY TRAFFIC & PARKING VIOLATIONS AGENCY; COMMISSIONER OF TAXATION & FINANCE; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; TIMOTHY GUARIN; CREDIT ACCEPTANCE CORPORATION; JOSEPH PERCIVAL; TOWN SUPERVISOR, TOWN OF ISLIP; TOWN SUPERVISOR, TOWN OF BABYLON; PORTFOLIO RECOVERY ASSOCIATES LLC; BETHPAGE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION; MARY DOE Defendants. _______ Filed: 9/9/2025 Index No.: 620562/2024 SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Mortgaged Premises: 107 N 18th Street Wyandanch, (Town of Babylon) NY 11798 TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on Plaintiff's attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a Defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days

of service hereof. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is for the foreclosure of: Mortgage bearing the date of December 10, 1990, executed by Berdine Ivory & John M. Jackson & Theodis Wells to First Northern Mortgagee Corp. to secure the sum of $89,050.00, and interest, and recorded in the Office of the Clerk of Suffolk County on January 9, 1991 in Book: 16525, Page: 97. That Fleet Northern Mortgage Corporation duly assigned said Note and Mortgage to Chemical Bank by Assignment dated December 10, 1990 and recorded on January 9, 1991 in the Office of the Clerk of Suffolk County in Book: 16993, Page: 39. That Chemical Bank duly assigned said Note and Mortgage to Chemical Mortgage Company by Assignment dated September 2, 1992 and recorded on September 8, 1992 in the Office of the Clerk of Suffolk County in Book 18072 Page 564. That JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, s/b/m Chase Home Finance LLC, s/b/m to Chase Manhattan Mortgage Corporation, s/b/m to Chase Mortgage Company, f/k/a Chemical Mortgage Company duly assigned said Note and Mortgage to Chemical Bank by GAP Assignment dated January 21, 2022 and recorded on March 12, 2022 in the Office of the Clerk of Suffolk County in Book 23392 Page 189. That Chemical Bank duly assigned said

Note and Mortgage to Secretary of Housing and Urban Development of Washington, D.C. by Assignment dated July 9, 1993 and recorded on July 27, 1993 in the Office of the Clerk of Suffolk County in Book 18687 Page 267. That U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development duly assigned said Note and Mortgage to CS First Boston Mortgage Capital Corp. by Assignment dated September 4, 1996 and recorded on April 25, 1997 in the Office of the Clerk of Suffolk County in Book 19191 Page 710. That Credit Suisso First Boston Mortgage Capital LLC Successor by merger to CS First Boston Mortgage Capital Corp. duly assigned said Note and Mortgage to Salomon Brothers Realty Corp. by Assignment dated June 20, 1997 and recorded on April 10, 1998 in the Office of the Clerk of Suffolk County in Book 19323 Page 162. That Salomon Brothers Realty Corp. duly assigned said Note and Mortgage to LaSalle National Bank, as Trustee for the registered holders of Salomon Brothers Mortgage Securities VII, Inc., Series 1997-HUD2, without recourse by Assignment dated November 25, 1997 and recorded on April 10, 1998 in the Office of the Clerk of Suffolk County in Book 19323 Page 163. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the Mortgaged Premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. Plaintiff designates Suffolk County as the place of trial. The basis of venue is the County in which the Mortgaged Premises is situated. Dis-

trict: 0100 Section: 039.00 Block: 02.00 Lot: 095.000 DATED: May 13, 2025 Rochester, New York NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the Mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your Mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Molly L. Chapman, Esq. DAVIDSON FINK LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff 400 Meridian Centre Blvd., Ste. 200 Rochester, New York 14618 Tel: (585) 760-8218 WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. SCHEDULE A LEGAL DESCRIPTION ALL that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Wyandanch, in the Town of Babylon, Suffolk County, State of New York, known and designated as and by Lot Numbers 37, 38, 39, 40

and 41 in Block 29, as laid down on a certain map entitled, “Map of Wheatley Heights”, and filed in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk, May 1, 1955, as and by the Map No. 1122, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at the corner formed by the intersection of the southerly side of Nicholl's Road (Nicholl' s Avenue) and the easterly side of North 18th Street (18th St.); RUNNING THENCE north 82 degrees 02 minutes east and along the southerly side of Nicholl's Road 100 feet; RUNNING THENCE south 7 degrees 58 minutes east, 125 feet: RUNNING THENCE south 82 degrees 02 minutes west, 100 feet to the easterly side of North 18th Street; and RUNNING THENCE north 7 degrees 58 minutes west and along the easterly side of North 18th Street, 125 feet to the corner aforesaid at the point or place of BEGINNING. which has the address of 107 North 18th Street, Wyandanch, New York 11798. Being the same property as conveyed from Michael L. Knight to Berdine Ivory & John M. Jackson & Theodis Wells, as tenants in common as set forth in Deed Book 11202 Page 527 dated 12/10/1990, recorded 01/09/1991, Suffolk County, New York.

25-400 10/15, 22, 29, 11/5

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TOWN OF BABYLON ZON-

ING BOARD OF APPEALS

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

(Located in the East Wing) at Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York on THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2025

BEGINNING AT 6:00 P.M.

6:00 p.m.

1. Application #25155 Mohammed A. Khaleque, 200 Claremont Street, Deer Park, NY. Permission to diminish front yard setback from 30’ to 23.5’ (for portico); diminish total side yards from 30’ to 29.7’; increase area of garage from 500 sq. ft. to 631.75 sq. ft. (over by 131.75 sq. ft.); diminish distance to rear lot line from 8’ to 4.4’ (for shed); diminish distance to north lot line from 8’ to 6.4’ (for shed). All in connection with a proposed one-story addition and proposed twostory addition and to legally maintain a portico, porch, garage, and shed. Property located on the east end of Claremont Street, 907.63’ east of Wildwood Avenue, Deer Park, NY.

SCTM#0100-22-140

Zoning District: Residence B 6:05 p.m.

2. Application #25188 Isaac Mushibayev (applicant)/Dexter Mitchell Jr. (prop. owner), 580 5th Avenue, New York, NY.

Public Notices — Your

Permission to diminish rear yard setback from 40’ to 15’ (for cellar entrance). All in connection with legalizing a rear cellar entrance. Property located on the south side of Delaware Road between Nevada Road and Arizona Avenue, West Babylon, NY.

SCTM#0100-1023-66

Zoning District: Residence B Subject Premises: 16 Delaware Road, West Babylon, NY 6:10 p.m.

3. Application #25189 Elaine WatsonMcGhee. Uriel Williams, and Dana Douglas, 51 Poplar Road, North Amityville, NY. Permission to diminish rear yard setback from 40’ to 29.1’ (for 2nd story deck). All in connection with a proposed second-story deck and stairs. Property located on the north side of Poplar Road, 150’ west of East Street, Amityville, NY.

SCTM#0100-1241-44.001

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

4. Application #25185 Oliver P. Coutrier Revocable Trust, Oliver P. Coutrier and Karen A. Coutrier as co-trustees, 300 Carleton Avenue, Central Islip, NY. Permission to increase total building area from 15% to 35.9% (over by 1,995.3 sq. ft.); diminish distance to rear lot line from 2’ to 0’ (for patio); diminish distance to south side lot line from 2’ to 0’ (for patio); diminish distance to north side lot line from 2’ to 0’ (for pavers). All in connection to legally maintain rear decks, paver patios, and finished basement. Property located on the west side of North 21st Street, 600’ south of Lee Avenue, Wheatley Heights, NY.

SCTM#0100-13-320

Zoning District:

Residence C

Subject Premises:

162 North 21st Street, Wheatley Heights, NY

6:20 p.m.

5. Application #25182 Julius John Harder and Roseann Harder, 349 Half Hollow Road, Deer Park, NY.

Permission to diminish front yard setback from 30’ to 26.7’ (for basement entrance); allow basement entrance in the side and front yard, a non-permitted location; allow an egress window well in the front yard, a non-permitted location. All in connection to legally maintain a finished basement with outside basement entrance and egress window well. Property located on the north side of Half Hollow Road, 160.04’ east of Collins Avenue, Deer Park, NY.

SCTM#0100-42-4-

58

Zoning District:

Residence C

6:25 p.m.

6. Application #25183 Sophia Myong Sun Kim, 18 Laurel Drive, North Lindenhurst, NY. Permission to diminish west side yard setback from 10’ to 9.6’ (for roof over patio); diminish east side yard setback from 10’to 3.8’ (for attached shed); diminish total side yards from 25’ to 13.4’; diminish rear yard setback from 30’ to 27.5’ (for attached shed); increase total building area from 30% to 34.75% (over by 190.3 sq. ft.). All in connection with legally maintaining a converted garage, attached shed, and roof over patio. Property located on the south side of Laurel Road, 229’ west of Union Road, Lindenhurst, NY.

SCTM#0100-1283-64

Zoning District: Residence C

6:30 p.m.

7. Application #25172a (Lot #1) Florence Butler and Michael Stone, 1542 Herzel Boulevard, West Babylon, NY. Permission to diminish width at front street from 80’ to 62.6’; diminish lot area from 10,000 sq. ft. to 6,270 sq. ft.; diminish total side yards from 30’ to 26.6’; diminish rear yard setback from 40’ to 33.49’; to subdivide a parcel from 125.20’ x 100.16’ into 62.60’ x 100.16’. All in connection with a proposed subdivision of one (1) lot into two (2) and to erect a new two-story singlefamily dwelling on Lot #1. Property located on the north side of 42nd Street, 125.1’ east of New Highway, Lindenhurst, NY.

SCTM#0100-2053-110

Zoning District: Residence B

Subject Premises: 485 42nd Street, Lindenhurst, NY

6:35 p.m.

8. Application #25172b (Lot #2) Florence Butler and Michael Stone, 1542 Herzel Boulevard, West Babylon, NY. Permission to diminish width at front street line from 80’ to 62.60’; diminish lot area from 10,000 sq. ft. to 6,270 sq. ft.; diminish total side yards from 30’ to 26.6’; diminish rear yard setback from 40’ to 33.49’; to subdivide a parcel from 125.20’ x 100.16’ into 62.60’ x 100.16’. All in connection with a proposed subdivision of one (1) lot into two (2) and to erect a new two-story single-family dwelling on Lot #2. Property located on the north side of 42nd Street, 187.7’’ east of New Highway, Lindenhurst, NY.

SCTM#0100-2053-110

Zoning District:

Residence B

Subject Premises: 485 42nd Street, Lindenhurst, NY

6:40 p.m.

9. Application #25186 Nassau Financial Federal Credit Union (tenant)/Farmdale LLC (prop. owner), 2275 Hempstead Turnpike, East Meadow, NY. Permission to diminish off-street parking from one hundred and thirty-nine (139) parking stalls required to sixty-five (65) parking stalls provided. All in connection with interior alterations to a portion of an existing multi-tenant building. Property located on the south side of Smith Street, 125’ east of Route 110, Farmingdale, NY.

SCTM#0100-2-122.001

Zoning District: Industry Ga

Subject Premises: 20 Smith Street, East Farmingdale, NY 6:45 p.m.

10. Application #25-187 JDG Repairs Inc. (tenant)/J.P. Associates, Inc. (prop. owner), 622A Route 109, Lindenhurst, NY. Requesting renewal of a special exception permit to operate a public garage as an auto repair shop; outdoor storage of vehicles awaiting repair as per site plan. All in connection with a portion of an existing building (previously approved for one (1) year, expired July 25, 2025). Property located on the southwest corner of Route 109 and Robbins Street, Lindenhurst, NY.

SCTM#0100-1331-3

Zoning District: Business E 6:50 p.m. 11. Application #25-184 Cosmos Service Center (applicant)/200 Herzel Corp. (prop. owner), 200 Herzel Boulevard, West Babylon, NY.

Requesting renewal of a special exception permit to operate a public garage for auto repair; diminish offstreet parking from eleven (11) parking stalls required to seven (7) parking stalls provided; allow outdoor storage for four (4) vehicles awaiting repair in the front yard. All in connection with an existing building (previously approved for one (1) year; expired September 12, 2025). Property located on the northwest corner of 3rd Avenue and Herzel Boulevard, West Babylon, NY.

SCTM#0100-1291-61

Zoning District: Business E ALL PERSONS OR THEIR DULY APPOINTED 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 ADJOURNED CASES. BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS MICHAEL KANE, CHAIRMAN Dated: Babylon Town Hall Lindenhurst, New York October 6, 2025 25-402. 10/15

Bridge renamed in honor of fallen 9/11 responder

The Route 231 Bridge over the Southern State Parkway in North Babylon will be renamed in honor of fallen September 11, 2001 responder, Port Authority Detective Thomas M. Inman following the signing of legislation sponsored by state Senator Monica R. Martinez and Assemblyman Michael Durso by Governor Kathy Hochul.

“This dedication ensures that Detective Inman’s heroism will never be forgotten,” said Leonard Marone, president of the Port Authority Detectives Endowment Association. “His actions exemplify the sacrifice and strength of our law enforcement community.”

The bill passed both houses of the state legislature earlier this year. The legislation dedicating the bridge was signed on the 24th anniversary of the attacks.

“Port Authority Detective Thomas M. Inman’s life was defined by his service to our nation, his neighbors, and all New Yorkers,” said Martinez. “That service ultimately claimed his life due to cancer linked to his work at Ground Zero following the September 11th attacks. Today, his legacy stands as a tribute to his strength, courage, and compassion during those darkest days and I thank Governor Hochul for signing this legislation to ensure Detective Inman’s name and sacrifice are forever remembered.”

Inman was a Vietnam veteran and a decorated member of the Port Authority Police Department, where he served for more than three decades. In the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, he worked 15 months at Ground Zero and in the morgue, helping to recover remains and bring closure to grieving families. He later developed cancer tied to his work at the Ground Zero site and died in 2020.

“Detective Thomas M. Inman’s career was defined by bravery, dedication, and unwavering service to our community,” said Durso. “Let this dedication ensure his legacy of service may never be forgotten.”

Inman also served in the U.S. Army at age 17 before joining the Port Authority Police Department, where he rose to the rank of detective. He retired in 2003 after 32 years of service. He is survived by his wife Diane, his partner of 50 years, as well as nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and former colleagues.

A dedication ceremony for the “Port Authority Detective Thomas M. Inman Memorial Bridge” will be held at a later date, in conjunction with the installation of signage by the New York State Department of Transportation.

Stunning Euro Chic Home

TWhy can’t the architect and the contractor be friends?

Q. We’re trying to figure out how a mess started right at the beginning of our renovation. The plans were permitted, so we believe they were properly reviewed, but the mason and the contractor built something different than what was in the plans. The contractor is a friend who we trust. They have told us that the architect made mistakes, and they couldn’t build it the way the plans show, so they did something different.

We don’t want to stop the job, but the architect came by and said that there are many problems now, because the structure isn’t going to work the way the contractor made changes, and because the structure had to be a certain way. The contractor keeps sending us texts showing different ways to do the job, complete with sketches. The architect is saying that the work will be unsafe the way the contractor is proposing the changes. What should we do?

A. When plans aren’t followed, which happens all too frequently, the job has to stop while the design is reassessed by the architect. If you take that authority away from the architect, you set yourself up for a prolonged set of problems that can go on and on, delaying the work and possibly not even getting the outcome you were looking for.

The contractor is not given the authority to change the design or construction. Most construction plans have clauses stating that the contractor is not to deviate from them, and also instruct the contractor to contact the architect with questions, or to get clarification on any issues or discrepancies before any work starts. Once the work starts, the contractor will often begin to point fingers at the architect for anything not clear and misunderstood. I refer to this as “divide and conquer,” a common practice in which the contractor, empowered to run the construction job, alienates the architect from the owner, creating an often permanent rift.

Contractors and building inspectors have told me it is rare to see an architect on a construction site, but I recommend that the architect look at the work — especially foundation forms — before a concrete pour and also framing. During demolition is an important time to see previously hidden structure, especially because older homes were often built with bare-minimum beams — hence the explanation for sagging floors that people often point out before the architect starts redesigning. You need to listen to the architect before this problem becomes harder, and more expensive, to undo.

If you have doubts about the architect, especially about structure, bring in a structural engineer to meet with the architect. One of the biggest reasons these problems occur is because of a lack of communication. You, the owner, should have brought everyone, including the architect, contractor, subcontractors — especially the mason — together and had a team meeting. Letting everyone do their own thing with the assumption that everything would run smoothly was the first problem. But it’s not too late. Good luck!

© 2025 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 City, NY 11530, Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.

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A clearer view: understanding and treating cataracts

Have you noticed that your vision is becoming a little hazy, like you’re looking through a foggy window? If so, you might be experiencing the effects of cataracts.

contact lens prescription, or double vision in one eye.

What, exactly, is a cataract? Imagine the lens of your eye is like the lens of a camera. It’s a clear, natural part of your eye that focuses light onto the retina, which is at the back of your eye. The retina then sends signals to your brain, creating the images you see.

A cataract is simply the clouding of this natural lens. It’s a bit like a clear camera lens becoming frosted over. This clouding prevents light from passing through properly, leading to blurry, hazy or dim vision. Cataracts typically develop slowly and painlessly, so you might not even notice a change in your vision at first. As they progress, however, you may experience cloudy or blurry vision, the fading or yellowing of colors, an increased sensitivity to light, difficulty with night vision, halos around lights, frequent changes in your eyeglass or

The most common cause of cataracts is aging, but other factors can also contribute to their development, including family history, medical conditions, previous eye injury or surgery, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation from sunlight.

When cataracts begin to interfere with your daily life, making it difficult to read, drive or watch TV, it’s time to consider cataract surgery. It’s one of the most common and routinely successful surgical procedures performed today.

Tdistance (i.e. driving, watching a Broadway show). You will likely still need glasses for reading, using a computer and other close-up tasks.

Toric lenses (astigmatism correction): Astigmatism occurs when the cornea is shaped more like a football than a baseball, causing blurry or distorted vision. Toric IOLs have a special design that corrects both your cataract and your astigmatism in a single procedure.

hey’re a normal part of aging, but they don’t have to define your vision.

The surgeon makes a tiny incision in the eye, and then uses a special tool to break up and remove the cloudy natural lens. Then a new, clear artificial lens — called an intraocular lens, or IOL — is implanted in its place. The new lens becomes a permanent part of your eye and requires no special care.

With modern cataract surgery, you have options for your new lens. Your doctor will help you choose the best one to fit your lifestyle and needs.

Monofocal IOL: This is the most common type of IOL. It provides clear vision at a single distance, usually for

LeTTers

ish-American War.

Closer to our time, the press remained curiously silent about the 1940s Levittown covenant restricting home ownership in that community to white people. And in 2002, when President George W. Bush justified our invasion of Iraq by insisting that the country’s weapons of mass destruction posed a threat to America, few newspapers questioned his claim.

I’m sure Mr. Buglione enjoyed a wonderful working relationship with his Herald colleagues 20 years ago. And while I’ve no reason to doubt his statement that Herald reporters were genuinely committed to presenting the news accurately, we’d be hard-pressed to find a time when the press — in general — has been entirely squeaky clean.

RICHARd J. COnWAY Massapequa

Koslow’s a better choice than Blakeman

To the Editor:

It can be an easy win for a candidate with name recognition who has enough money and government power to bombard us with fliers, signs and TV ads

each day. Bruce Blakeman, our current n assau County executive, has this power. We need to look beyond the hype. It’s time for a more centrist candidate. Blakeman and his team are entrenched in national politics, pleasing President Trump by doing such things as training a group of our county police officers to work in tandem with the president’s controversial ICE force, setting aside cells in our county jail for nonviolent ICE detainees, and creating a volunteer, private militia that Blakeman can use when and how he decides.

On the other hand, Seth Koslow is a centrist candidate for county executive with years of experience as a Queens district attorney, a private-practice lawyer and a current member of the nassau County Legislature. He has lived in n assau County his entire life, and is raising his family here. He is very concerned about our taxes in nassau, and has said that he would order a full, independent audit of county spending to see where our money is being spent.

Koslow has stated that he would share ideas with his Republican counterpart in Suffolk County, because he believes in the idea of people on both sides working together for the benefit of the county. He has said he would disband Blakeman’s private militia because he believes that our excellent

Extended depth of focus lenses: These lenses create a single, elongated focal point to provide a continuous range of vision. They offer excellent distance vision and a solid range of intermediate vision — great for computer work or seeing a car dashboard — with a lower chance of nighttime glare or halos than other multifocal designs. You may still need glasses for very fine print.

Light adjustable lenses: These are the only IOLs that can be customized after they have been implanted. The lenses are made of unique, photosensitive material. After a few weeks of healing, your surgeon uses a special light-delivery device to fine-tune the lenses’ power to your exact visual needs (distance, near or a blend), eliminating any small remaining prescription errors. Once

the optimal vision is achieved, the lens is “locked in” and the adjustments are permanent. This offers the highest level of precision and customization.

Femtosecond cataract surgery: precision with lasers: While traditional cataract surgery is very safe and effective, many surgeons now offer laser-assisted surgery. It uses a highly precise, computer-controlled laser to perform several key steps of the surgery that were traditionally done by hand with a blade. The laser creates the tiny incision, opens the lens capsule and even softens the cataract before it is removed. This allows for extraordinary accuracy and consistency, can lead to a more predictable outcome and a faster recovery, and is a safer procedure for certain patients.

Cataracts are a normal part of aging, but they don’t have to define your vision. With simple preventive measures and highly effective surgical options, you can look forward to a world that is once again clear, vibrant and full of light. If you have any concerns about your vision, don’t hesitate to speak with your eye doctor.

Dr. Carolyn Shih is an assistant professor at the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, and works at South Shore Eye Care, a member of the Northwell Health Eye Institute.

county police force is more than capable of handling our citizens’ safety.

The bottom line is that Seth Koslow is a highly qualified local resident who would concentrate solely on the needs

of our county. This makes him and his team best suited to run our county.

Amityville

RecoRd

CHARLES DELANO - Founder

Established 1904

Incorporating the Amityville Record in 2024

CAROLyN JAmES

Associate Publisher / Editor

Donna Consola

JessiCa Kleiman

Multi Media Marketing Consultants

offiCe

2 Endo Boulevard

Garden City, NY 11530

Phone: (516) 569-4000

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Web: www.liherald.com

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HERALD

Robert Richner

Edith Richner

iHerald editorial

Real journalists, reporting real stories

n an age of uncertainty and skepticism toward the media, one mission has remained unwavering: to inform, empower and connect our community with journalism rooted in truth and integrity.

That mission defines Herald Community Media, publisher of 27 community weekly newspapers serving Nassau and Suffolk counties and a touch of New York City. It is the foundation of everything we do — every story we report, every question we ask and every issue we print.

The Herald’s purpose has never been clearer or more vital, especially now, during election season. Across the nation, trust in media has declined as misinformation spreads faster than facts and as social media platforms blur the line between opinion and truth. Yet despite this turbulence, the need for reliable local journalism has never been greater. We know you depend on us not only to tell you what’s happening, but also to help you understand why it matters — to your neighborhood, your family and your future.

This summer, the Pew Research Center published “How Americans View Journalists in the Digital Age,” an indepth look at how the public perceives our profession. Pew surveyed nearly 9,400 U.S. adults and convened a number of focus groups, and found both optimism and concern. Most Americans still believe journalists are vital to our soci-

letters

There’s often been bias in journalism

To the Editor:

Re Nick Buglione’s column in the Oct. 2-8 issue, “I was proud to be a reporter — but things have changed”: I, too, would like to put to rest the argument that Facebook, Instagram, Tik-Tok and other social media have any role in serious journalism. It’s indeed unfortunate that so many people rely on these geysers of rumor, gossip, misinformation and lies for their news.

But the journalism profession has never been as idealistic and innocent as Mr. Buglione seems to suggest it once was. In fact, long before social media invaded our world, the press’s coverage of important events was at times nakedly partisan, ignorant and dishonest.

In the 19th century, for example, some newspapers accepted hefty sums of money from politicians for favorable coverage of their campaigns. At least one paper from that era, William Randolph Hearst’s New York Journal, ran sensationalized stories about Spanish atrocities in Cuba, which, many believe, helped drum up support for American involvement in the Span-

ety’s well-being — but many also express frustration, feeling that the media’s credibility and influence have declined amid political division and technological upheaval.

Yet within those findings lies a message of hope and direction. Americans say what they value most in their news providers is honesty, intelligence and authenticity — qualities that have guided the Herald’s reporting since its founding in 1964. Our journalists live by those values every day. We verify information carefully, we listen with compassion and we report with clarity and context. We are not distant observers; we are your neighbors, your fellow community members and your partners in truth.

At a time when the term “media” often evokes distrust, the Herald reaffirms its promise: to deliver accurate, objective and trustworthy local journalism. That means being transparent about how we report, being accountable when we err, and being authentic in how we connect with you.

Authenticity, as editors across the country have noted, may be the most powerful defense against today’s flood of misinformation and artificial intelligence-generated content. Real, local journalism can’t be practiced from behind a desk or from a distant city. It requires trained professionals who show up in the community, ask hard questions and share the stories of other real-life

people.

Every week, Herald journalists attend school board meetings, interview local business owners, chronicle civic debates, and celebrate the achievements of neighbors doing extraordinary things. We are not reporting on the community from afar — we are reporting within it, with care, empathy and purpose.

Readers deserve to know how stories come together — how sources are verified, why certain facts are included and how conclusions are drawn. We are committed to correcting mistakes quickly and publicly, because credibility is not earned by claiming perfection but by demonstrating honesty.

As Pew’s research highlights, Americans long for media that is clear, fair and accountable. The Herald’s commitment to those ideals has not wavered for more than six decades, and it will not waver now. Our mission — to inform, empower and connect our community with journalism rooted in truth and integrity — is our responsibility, our calling and our promise. As a locally owned family business, our commitment is to our communities, not to Wall Street.

In a world increasingly driven by algorithms and artificial noise, the Herald’s voice remains steady: local reporting by real journalists, telling real stories that matter. That is how we serve. That is how we strengthen our community. And that is how we continue.

We will remain the leader of the free world

American foreign policy is at a watershed moment, comparable to the critical years after World War II, when the United States and our allies were forced to accept that the euphoria of victory over Nazi Germany and imperial Japan had been supplanted by the reality of the Iron Curtain and the threat of Soviet expansion. The Cold War had begun.

The NATO alliance was formed to prevent Joseph Stalin from emulating Adolf Hitler’s march through Europe after the Munich Conference capitulation in 1938, which had given Hitler virtually free rein to invade and seize Czechoslovakia. A decadeslong struggle would continue through various iterations and crises until the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 — a struggle that today’s isolationists would have labeled an “endless war.” Fortunately, neither American political party elected isolationists during those defining 45 years. Pre-World War II isolationism had long since been consigned to the ash heap of history.

The fall of the Soviet Union in 1991 created a sense of euphoria similar to

Ithat of 1945 and ’46. Eastern Europe was liberated from the yoke of Soviet communist rule, and the Soviet republics declared their independence from Moscow. One of them was Ukraine, which, tragically, had been brutalized for centuries by Russia.

TUkraine was also left with thousands of Soviet nuclear weapons. In 1994, in keeping with the spirit of the Soviet demise, Ukraine gave up those weapons in return for guarantees of security from the United States, Britain and Russia, in what was known as the Budapest Agreement. All indicators seemed to foresee a reformed Russia, and no aggression of the type that drew the U.S. into the two world wars of the 20th century.

rump’s turnabout with Zelensky and Putin sends a clear message to China.

There would be fits and starts with Russia during the later Bush years, including an incursion into Georgia, and then a promise by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in 2009 that the Obama administration would “reset” the relationship with Russia. That reset never worked, and Russia seized Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. There was no Russian aggression during the first Trump administration, but then, in February 2022, Putin launched an invasion of Ukraine — the first invasion of a sovereign European nation since the end of World War II.

defeating Russian aggression, having supplied more funding to Ukraine than the U.S. Unfortunately, President Trump has shown reluctance to stand with Ukraine, ascribing equal blame for the war to Zelensky — even berating him in the White House, telling him he had no cards to play.

I accompanied President Bill Clinton and Secretary of State Madeleine Albright to Moscow in September 1998 for meetings with Russian President Boris Yeltsin and other Russian officials to strengthen economic and cultural ties between our two nations. The dialogue between the leaders was extremely positive. Then, after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in 2001, the newly elected Russian president, Vladimir Putin, was among the first foreign leaders to pledge President George W. Bush his full support.

Staying sane in the age

’m tired. In fact, I’m exhausted. I’m overwhelmed. It’s not from going to the gym. It’s not from being glued to my TV, watching my favorite baseball team trying to survive the playoffs.

It’s the torrent of information that has been drowning me 24 hours a day, with no promise of abating. Is there any hope that the flood will end and that I’ll have a respite from information overload? Is there any hope that the barrage will shut down over the weekend, when we try to pay less attention to our laptops and cellphones? Or are we doomed to being perpetually overwhelmed by the greatest avalanche of facts, figures, news, emails, text messages and robocalls since the dawn of the high-tech era?

There is no one culprit that we can identify whose elimination would give us a reprieve from the onslaught. One of the biggest offenders of them all is,

Aof course, the White House, which engages in a strategy known as Flood the Zone. Every day, it releases so many “hot” news items that it would take you or me two or three days just to get through them. In addition to the media flood, President Trump holds freewheeling news conferences that can last well over an hour. Generally, those events generate other news stories on top of the daily pressroom output.

Then there’s the smartphone app challenge. I checked my phone and found that I am attached to Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X and have subscriptions to the Daily News, the New York Post, The Washington Post, The New York Times, Newsday, Newsday TV, the Huffington Post, Apple News, The Hill, CNN, The Weather Channel and some others that I’ve forgotten. I know that over the course of the day, I tap into every one of those outlets for some type of information.

Ukraine, under its newly elected reform president, Volodymyr Zelensky, was expected to succumb in days or weeks. President Joseph Biden even offered to have American jets provide Zelensky safe passage out of Ukraine. But with the U.S. and NATO countries supplying weapons and logistical support, Zelensky and Ukraine have fought Russia to a stalemate for over three and a half years — longer than America’s war against Nazi Germany.

Russia has suffered more than a million casualties, and has had to resort to using North Korean troops. Its economy is in shambles. NATO has admitted two previously neutral nations, Sweden and Finland, and remains committed to

Trump met with Putin in Alaska, and implored him to meet with Zelensky to reach a compromise. Putin implied that he would, but reneged. Realizing he was being played, Trump denounced Putin in his speech to the United Nations General Assembly last month, and just hours later, met one on one with Zelensky. Then, going full circle, Trump released a statement hailing Zelensky’s leadership, saying that Ukraine was in a position to “fight and win,” and pledging to continue to supply weapons to NATO for Ukraine’s use against Russia.

Trump’s turnabout will prevent a catastrophic replay of Munich and halt Putin’s attempt to rebuild the Russian empire. This defeat of Russian aggression in Europe will simultaneously send a clear message to China not to move against Taiwan or other Pacific nations such as the Philippines and Japan. The United States will remain the leader of the free world.

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

of information overload

imagine waiting at a bus stop for six hours. It’s a long time.

ll ‘breaking’ news all the time — and for goodness’ sake, don’t forget podcasts.

Beyond all these challenges is the introduction of artificial intelligence into our lives. No matter how hard you try, there’s no way to escape the onslaught of articles, studies, memos and office talk about AI. Just a few years ago, if someone had uttered the words artificial intelligence, they would have been largely ignored. These days, those words hover over us like a threatening storm cloud, with most of us having no idea whether it will help or harm us.

program. How many times in a halfhour can there be so much “breaking” news? And the repetition of the same stories can be head-splitting.

Last, but by far not least, is the introduction into our space of the podcast. Today, almost every media, political, religious, sports or entertainment personality has a podcast of some kind. They have rotating guests, and offer a mountain of opinions on the subjects of the moment. Many of them are interesting and informative, but how many hours in a day do we have to partake in this newest information vehicle?

Once a week, I get a text telling me that, on average, I’m on my phone for a minimum of six hours a week. That doesn’t sound like a lot of hours, but

Once upon a time, watching television was a respite from the pressures of the day. Today, watching TV can leave you dazed and confused by hour after hour of commercials for countless drugs, all of which, apparently, will save humanity. On top of the drug tsunami, there are countless other ads that dominate the time you would like to just sit back and watch your favorite show, uninterrupted.

To add to the desperation for some chill time, there’s today’s typical news

So that is my ongoing nightmare. It is mine, but it’s the nightmare that we all face. We’re just human beings; we’re not robots. At least for now, they can’t implant a chip in our brain to help us fend off the cascade of facts, figures, opinions, ideas, theories and concepts that flood our every waking hour. So we’ll have to find new ways to help ourselves live a normal life, and still be adequately informed people.

Jerry Kremer was a state assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. Comments about this column? jkremer@ liherald.com.