Babylon Herald 02_26_2026

HERALD BaBylon

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

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

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

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

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

During her visit, Reardon toured the college’s

Advanced Manufacturing Training Center and met with students and educators. She also highlighted several workforce development and child care initiatives included in Gov. Kathy Hochul’s proposed budget.

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

Officials said the programs help create a pipeline of locally trained workers who can remain in their communities.

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

“It’s tremendously important for students to

Babylon Village okays new bonding

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com

Babylon Village officials have approved $8.86 million in borrowing to fund major capital improvements, including the purchase of two new fire trucks, bulkhead reconstruction and upgrades to the Village pool.

Of the total amount of the bonds, $3.2 million will go toward two new trucks for the Babylon Fire Department. An additional $5.15 million is earmarked for construction and improvements to Village bulkheads, and $500,000 will fund improvements at the Village pool, including resurfacing the deep end. The shallow end has already been resurfaced.

One of the new vehicles will replace the department’s 29-year-old heavy rescue truck. Trustee Tony Cardali said the vehicle’s age has made it increasingly difficult to maintain.

“There have been breakdowns where new parts had to be created because stock parts no longer exist,” said Fire Patrol Company No. 1 Lt. Jason Brunges.

Brunges noted in a letter to the board that the truck responds to more calls annually than any other piece of department equipment and is frequently taken out of service.

“It is in the best interest of the Village to have response time for our residents and to have a new rig,” he wrote. “The reliability of our current rig is

not all that high and it is safer for members, as well as residents, if the upgrade is made.”

The second vehicle will replace a 25-year-old heavy rescue truck that should be considered for full retirement due to safety concerns, parts availability and lack of modern safety features such as airbags and rollover protection, according to Karry Carlock, truck committee chairman for Hook & Ladder Company No. 1.

Village officials said they are awaiting analysis from underwriters before finalizing the bond terms and retiring old debt.

IN OTHER BUSINESS, THE BOARD:

• Authorized the establishment of a Façade Improvement Board to be added to the Retail Business District section of the Village Code.

• Approved the Babylon Beautification Society’s 2026 Annual Fair for Sept. 13, with a rain date of Sept. 20.

• Granted permission to the Better Babylon Party and trustee candidate Jordan Hoffman to maintain temporary campaign signs through March 18, the date of the Village election. Trustee Jeff Szabo abstained from both votes.

The next Village Board meeting will be held March 10 at 8 p.m. in the Board Room at Village Hall, 153 W. Main St. Work sessions begin at 7 p.m. in the second floor conference room.

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

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

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

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

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

Long Island faces ongoing shortages in skilled trades, including electrical work, heating and air conditioning, plumbing

and advanced manufacturing. Nassau and Suffolk community colleges offer workforce training in those areas, as well as in health care. The Long Island Educational Opportunity Center, sponsored by SUNY Farmingdale, provides tuition-free vocational training to regional residents.

Officials said the programs help create a pipeline of locally trained workers who can remain in their communities.

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

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

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

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

Justin Ostrick of Medford, a student enrolled in Suffolk County Community Col-

lege’s workforce program, said he “took a leap of faith,” when he decided to pursue training in the trades.

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

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

they need to move directly to full-time jobs.”

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

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

Reardon, co-chair of the state’s Child Care Task Force, said increasing access to affordable care is essential to strengthening the labor force. The task force, relaunched

Brown won’t seek reelection

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherld.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

He earned a degree in criminal justice from SUNY Albany and later received a Master of Public Administration degree and a certificate in city management

from Villanova University. He and his wife, Natalia, live in Sayville.

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

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

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

Scholarship applications available at WBHS

The West Babylon Alumni Foundation is now accepting applications for the organization’s alumni foundation scholarships. Applications should be picked. Up and returned to the guidance at West Babylon Senior High Schol. The final date for submission is. Monday, March 3, 2026. For more information go online to wba-

Wyandanch students walk out over funding for senior events

By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherld.com

Approximately 200 seniors at Wyandanch High School walked out of class on Friday, Feb. 13, protesting what they described as the district’s failure to account for more than $50,000 in Extra Classroom Activity Funds raised over the past four years.

The high school serves approximtely 820 students.

Students said the money was intended to help cover costs associated with their senior prom, senior trip and other graduation-related expenses.

Extra Classroom Activity Funds, or ECAF, are student-managed accounts established under state regulations. The funds are raised through admissions, membership dues, sales, fundraising campaigns and donations, and are designated for approved student activities. Districts are required to follow specific oversight and accounting procedures governing their use.

The issue surfaced when members of the senior class, working with their advisors, attempted to access the funds. Students said they were told the money was either unavailable or could not be used for the purposes they requested.

“Last year we worked with senior advisors Tiffany Kee and Tanish Crawford putting together an itinerary for this year and attempted to communicate with central administration this year to access the funds,” said Lauren Alfaro, a Wyandanch High School senior. “Despite trying to talk to the school board and administrators to get certain funding approved, they did not respond to us, nor would they answer our questions about the funds.”

The high school serves approximately 820 students grades 9-12.

School officials described the demonstration as brief and focused on concerns regarding funding for upcoming boardapproved senior experiences, including the senior trip. Students were respectful and demonstrated maturity while expressing their perspectives, they said.

The Board of Education met in executive session to discuss the issue prior to what was slated to be a regular board meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 18. Following the executive session, however, the board did not open the public meeting and left the administration building.

Superintendent of Schools Erik Wright declined to provide specifics about what was discussed in executive session, citing privileged information. He did, however, acknowledge that students had raised a “significant” amount of money — though not enough to cover the full cost of the senior experiences.

“At this time, the district is working with families to collect the remaining funds needed so that the experiences, including prom and the senior trip, can move forward as planned,” Wright said. He added that while all senior events have been board approved and may still take place, the appropriate amount of money must be available to ensure students receive the experiences they paid for, and the district does not risk losing monies due to nonrefundable deposits or payments.

“Our seniors will have the full senior experience,” Wright reiterated.

Despite that assurance from the superintendent, students remained concerned.

In related news, high school staff is compiling a list of West Babylon graduates who have served or are currently serving in the military for the High School Wall of Honor. Anyone interested in having a name added to the wall should contact tkelly@webschools.org

After several months of what they described as unsuccessful attempts to resolve the matter, Alfaro and fellow senior Janiya Bryan organized the walkout.

“We spread word quietly throughout the school and at 8:37 a.m., Friday, Feb. 13, a large group of students walked out of the high school, to help us get the district trespond to our concerns,” Alfaro said.

“We are just not getting answers,” said Alfaro. “Every time we try to ask questions or speak to administration, they don’t respond to us.”

Some students voiced frustration on social media. “As people who are supposed to support us, we see very little,” one student wrote of school administration. “Do the right thing; release the funds.”

The Herald reached out to senior advisors Kee and Crawford, but they did not respond to requests for an interview.

Lindenhurst man charged in serious assault

Suffolk County Police arrested a Lindenhurst man on Tues., Feb. 17, charging him with attacking another man with a knife at a Lindenhurst apartment complex. Police gave this account: At approximately 5:30 p.m., the suspect, identified as Tesfa Tucker of 930 North Putnam Ave., Lindenhurst, used a knife to attack a man, known to him,

in the entryway of the apartment complex. The victim, 27, who was not identified by police, was taken to a local hospital for treatment of serious injuries.

Tucker was charged with two counts of Assault and Criminal Possession of a Weapon, 3rd and 4th degree. He was held overnight at the Third Precinct.

CRIME WATCH

The following incidents have been reported by the Suffolk County Police Department’s First and Third precincts and other law enforcement and emergency service units: GRAND LARCENY

West Babylon: A West Babylon resident was scammed out of thousands of dollars after responding to an alleged investment company and sending money in exchange for gold that was never received. The incident was reported Feb. 12 shortly before 8 p.m.

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

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

Leaving the Scene of an Accident

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

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF

Lindenhurst: Both driver’s-side windows of a vehicle parked on 3rd Street were smashed Jan. 12. The incident was reported shortly before 6 p.m.

Wyandanch: The operator of a vehicle parked on 25th Street reported Feb. 11 at 1 a.m. that someone had gone through the car and stolen personal items.

PETIT LARCENY

North Amityville: Personal items, including cologne, were stolen from a vehicle parked on Booker Boulevard on Feb. 12, police said.

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

West Babylon: Brandon Knowles, 36, of 930 N. Putnam Ave., North Lindenhurst, was arrested Feb. 11 and charged with petit larceny. Police allege Knowles took two cases of alcoholic beverages from a 7-Eleven in West Babylon.

West Babylon: A vehicle traveling on Belmont Avenue at Marcy Street was rearended at approximately 4:30 p.m. on Feb. 8. The driver of the second vehicle fled the scene. The victim sustained minor injuries and was transported to Good Samaritan Hospital for treatment.

Babylon: A driver traveling on John Street sideswiped a bicyclist shortly before 3:30 p.m. on Feb. 7, causing the rider to fall and injure his left arm, according to police.

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

Lindenhurst: An assortment of hairdressing equipment, shoes and glasses was stolen from CVS Pharmacy, 20 E. Montauk Highway, on Feb. 9. The theft was reported at 3 p.m.

North Lindenhurst: An assortment of laundry detergent was stolen from Dollar General, 660 N. Wellwood Ave., on Feb. 8. The incident was reported at 9 p.m. A story that ran in the Beacon Feb. 12 (Village officials outline summer plans—and more) noted that a memorial and celebration of life for Trustee Sean Goodwin would

be taking place, but incorrectly stated the date. The correct date for the ceremony will be Saturday, April 25. A time and location will be determined at a later date.

Copiague nipped by Whitman in playoffs

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HERALD SPORTS North Babylon upset in playoff opener

Erik

Lee/Herald

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

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

Still, he praised his team’s fight.

“Our guys are so resilient,” he added. “That showed tonight as well. They never gave up. I love these kids and always will.”

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

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

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

By NIKO SCARLATOS sports@liherald.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Babylon mistakes down the stretch.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CRIME WATCH

Deer Park.

AUTO STRIPPING

Wyandanch: A catalytic converter was removed from a 2019 four-door Honda parked on 30th Street on Feb. 10. The report was filed at 11 a.m. ARRESTS

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

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

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

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

People named in Crime Watch items as having been arrested and charged with violations or crimes are only suspected of committing those acts of which they are accused. They are all presumed to be innocent of those charges until and unless found guilty in a court of law.

Self Help/Crisis Hotlines

Food Pantry/Clothing Closet

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

Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation

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

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

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

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

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

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

• LI Crisis Center: 516-679-1111

• Response Crisis Center: 631-751-7500

• S.C. Drug & alcohol hotline: 631-9791700

Meet some of our local scholars...

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

•Ella Okurowski of West Islip was recently named to the Dean’s List at The College of New Jersey. Gigante is majoring in Mechanical Engineering.

•Zayla Rodriguez of Lindenhurst was recently named to the President’s List at Flagler College.

•Alexandra Piteris of Babylon was recently named to the Dean’s List at Muhlenberg College. Piteris is studying Biochemistry and Theatre.

•The following students were recently named to the President’s List at the University of Bridgeport: Nochelle Foppiano of Babylon; Daniel Bartolomei of Deer Park; and Alexander Abi-Zeid AbiZeid of West Islip.

•The following students were recently named to the Dean’s List at the University of Bridgeport: Stephen Trama of West Islip; Vincent Lacascia of Deer Park; Alexander Villada of West Babylon; and Karissa Exavier of Lindenhurst.

•The following students were recently named to the Dean’s List at The University of Alabama: Christian Campay of Lindenhurst; Kevin Dattalo of Lindenhurst; Riley McFadden of North Babylon; and Anya Edwards of West Babylon.

•The following students were recently named to the President’s List at The University of Alabama: Meghan Gonzalvo of Lindenhurst; George Mavros of Lindenhurst; and Kylie Shores of West Babylon.

•The following students were recently named to the Dean’s List at Hartwick College: Xiomara Aristide of West Babylon; Jayden Beatty of West Babylon; Sophia Hawkins of West Islip; Ava Maresca of West Islip; Michael Pastore of West Babylon; Jackson Pesa of West Islip; Jack Reichel of West Islip; and Victoria Torre of Deer Park.

•Andrew Giorioso of Deer Park, attending Worcester Polytechnic Institute and majoring in Robotics Engineering, was recently named to the Dean’s List.

•The following students were recently named to the Dean’s List at Western New England University: Henrick Pierre-Louis of Wheatley Heights; Maurice Henlon of Deer Park; and Joel Lomax of West Babylon.

•The following students were recently named to the Dean’s List at SUNY Oneonta: Gabriella Abbatiello of West Islip; Samira Ahmed of Deer Park; Terese Antilus of West Babylon; Ashley Banaciski of Deer Park; Skylar ByerMixon of Deer Park; William Colloca of West Babylon; Annabella Daniele of West Islip; Rachel DeLuca of West Islip; and Jake DeVito of West Islip.

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Benefits & Pay:

Medical Benefits after 30 days of employment

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance. 401(k), Life insurance, Parental Leave, Paid Time Off

Position Details:

We are seeking dedicated Teaching Assistants to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a passion for working with children and supporting educators in a classroom setting.

Responsibilities:

• Assist the lead teacher in implementing lesson plans and activities

• Provide support to students with various tasks and assignments

• Supervise children during indoor and outdoor activities

• Help maintain a safe and clean learning environment

Requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED

• Ability to communicate positively, effectively, and appropriately with children

• Ability to use clear and understandable written and verbal communication

• Experience working with toddlers, preschoolers, or in a classroom setting is a plus!

• Teaching Assistant - Level Certificate a plus!

Work Schedule:

Monday to Friday from 8:15am to 2:45pm (Please note certain days will require later dismissal due to necessary professional development training.)

Job Type: Full-Time

Pay: $18.50 - $21.50 per hour

Work Location: In person

These two moms opened a spa. It had one big, on

Mery and Sindy always knew they wanted to open a spa to bring beauty to customers. Little did they know it would have the same effect on the community. And Business First was there. We provided $23,000 in grants to help with much-needed renovations so Mery and Sindy could bring their vision to life.* Now, not only does their spa impact clients in a beautiful way, it gives the community an economic lift as well.

*Incentives, grants, and savings will vary with every project.

Learn more about how we’re helping communities thrive. psegliny.com/revitalization

Brumidi lodge initiates new members at membership meeting

The Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America Constantino Brumidi Lodge #2211 of Deer Park initiated ten new members and welcomed one transfer at its January general membership meeting held recently.

Pictured are: Standing: Joan Beska, Mary Ellen Cito, Nancy Bacelli, Joseph Cannizzaro, Anna Cannizzaro, Fortunata Tallarico, Rosario Tallarico, Jacqueline Kaminsky and transferring from the Celli-

ni Lodge is Karen Bondi. Pictured seated: NYS OSDIA District I Trustee Tony Rotoli, Membership Chair Lucille Romanello, NYS OSDIA District Deputy Tony Izzo and Lodge President Cathy Lamberti.

Not pictured: new members Richard and Cynthia Formato.

The Lodge encourages those of Italian American descent to consider membership; contact Lucille at (631) 987-9728 for details.

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

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

The first video is of Patriot’s Rock in Setauket. Operated by the Three Village Community Trust, the location was the site of the Battle of Setauket. Patriots came across the Long Island Sound and faced off against the British garrison at the then Presbyterian Meeting House on August 22, 1777. The resulting skirmish

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

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

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

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

St. John’s celebrates 150th

St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church will celebrate its 150th anniversary this year, marking a century and a half since the congregation was officially chartered on Feb. 27, 1876, in the Village of Breslau, now known as Lindenhurst.

To commemorate the milestone, a blessing and historical reflection will be held Friday, Feb. 27, 2026, at 11:15 a.m. at the congregation’s original location, now home to Evangel Church of God, 12 W. John St., Lindenhurst.

The ceremony will include remarks from Lindenhurst Village Historian Anna Jaeger, a blessing by the Rev. Robert Schoepflin, dean of the Western Suffolk Conference of the Metropolitan New York Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and congratulatory greetings from invited elected officials. Community members are invited to attend.

The anniversary weekend will continue Sunday, March 1, at 9:30 a.m. with a festive worship celebration at St. John’s current location, 36 E. John St., Lindenhurst. The Rev. Dr. Katrina A. Foster, bishop of the ELCA’s Metropolitan New York Synod, will serve as preacher, and the Rev. Marc Herbst, pastor of St. John’s, will preside. The service is open to the public.

Following worship, a celebratory brunch will be held at Lindenhurst Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7279, 560 N. Delaware Ave. Church members, former ministers and guests will gather for fel-

RELIGIOUS

Courtesy St. John’s Evangelicia Lutheran Church Early photo of St. John’s Church which is celebrating its 150th anniversary

lowship and reflection. Brunch tickets are available in advance. For more information, call the church at 631-226-1274.

DIRECTORY

THE UNITED METHODIST

CHURCH OF BABYLON Corner of Deer Park Avenue and James Street in the Village of Babylon, 631-661-5151

Website: babylonumc.org

Pastor: The Rev. Melissa Boyer SUNDAY SERVICES

9:30am - Worship in the Church Online at Website - 9:30am

Home of the James Street Players and the UMC Nursery School Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors

For Information on Advertising here, please call Ellen Reynolds at 516-569-4000 x286.

HERALD NEIGHBORS

Copiague’s Alex Yake wins first Grammy

Engineered Best Progressive R&B album

By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD

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

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

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

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

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

cbabirad@liherld.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more information, visit alexyake.com.

West Babylon Science Olympiad teams headed to states

On Jan. 31, 65 teams from across Suffolk County gathered at Hauppauge High School to compete in the annual Science Olympiad Regional Tournament. With only the top eight schools advancing to the state tournament in March, the competition was intense and highly competitive. West Babylon Senior High School finished sixth overall, once again earning a coveted spot at the New York State Science Olympiad Tournament. In an outstanding showing, West Babylon’s three teams earned medals in 15 of the 25 events, demonstrating exceptional skill, preparation and teamwork across a wide range of scientific disciplines.

Congratulations to the following medal winners from West Babylon: Anatomy and Physiology, fourth place: Addie Eglin and Dheera Misra; Astronomy, third place: Addie Eglin and Saad Syed; Boomilever, first place: Melanie Jastrzebski and Erin Fider; Bungee Drop, second place: Christian Bustamante and Michael Higgins; Bungee Drop, eighth place: Kiera Villatoro and Jazlyn SerranoTurcios; Chemistry Lab, ninth place: Addie Eglin and Saad Syed; Disease Detectives, sixth place: Joel Colas and Anna Horowitz Electric Vehicle, seventh place: Gianfranco Cardenas and Lex Nunez; Entomology, fifth place: Gabby Gor -

czynski and Anna Horowitz; Experimental Design, ninth place: Dheera Misra, Nandini Ramesh and Erin Fider; Forensics, ninth place: Maria

Moreno Lopez and Luke Nache; Helicopter, second place: Joel Colas and Julian Cruz; Machines, fourth place: Brian Nguyen and Michael Higgins;

Remote Sensing, second place: Sofia Fuentes and Angeline Joseph and Robot, 10th place: Lily Jordan and Andrew Graham.

OPEN HOUSE - JOB FAIR!

Wednesday, March 18

STEPPING OUT

Rhythms, rituals and revelry

Carnival is back at Long Island Children’s Museum

By Abbey Salvemini

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

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

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

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

American Chamber Ensemble in concert

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

• Saturday, Feb. 28, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

• Admission: $18, $16 65+

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

• 11 Davis Ave., Garden City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your Neighborhood CALENDAR

BVAC MoMA

Feb

Babylon Village Arts Council features Marie Letourneau at their Museum of Miniature Art, MoMA, ongoing through February. Letourneau is a Long Island-based illustrator and author and her work is influenced by whimsical worlds and visual storytelling.

• Where: Village of Babylon Historical and Preservation Society, 117 W. Main St., Babylon Nathaniel Conklin House, 280 Deer Park Ave., Babylon.

• Time: Ongoing

• Contact: bvacuttendorfer@ gmail.com

BVAC Members Show at Webster Bank

Babylon Village Arts Council hosts a members show at Webster Bank throughout February.

• Where: Webster Bank, 180 W. Main St., Babylon.

• Time: Regular bank hours

• Contact: bvacuttendorfer@ gmail.com

‘Everybody Loves Raymond: Celebrating 30 Years’

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

• Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook

• Time: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

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

Movie matinee

Feb

27

Stop by Lindenhurst Memorial Library for a showing of “Karate Kid: Legends.” starring Jackie Chan, Ben Wang, Ralph Macchio, Joshua Jackson, Sadie Stanley and MingNa Wen. The sixth film in the franchise follows kung fu prodigy Li Fong as he relocates to New York City. He attracts unwanted

Jessie’s Girl

mar 6

Serving Our Savior Feeding Ministry

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

• Where: 79 E. Main St., Babylon

• Time: 4-6 p.m.

• Contact: (631) 587-5838

Poetry in the Village

Babylon Village Arts Council hosts their Poetry in the Village with poet Julianne Abend, followed by an open mic. Admission is free.

• Where: Jack Jack’s Coffee House, 223 Deer Park Ave, Babylon

• Time: 7-9 p.m.; open mic signup at 6:45 p.m.

• Contact: babylonvillagearts.org or (631) 669-1810

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

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

• Time: 8 p.m.

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

attention from a local karate champion and embarks on a journey to enter the ultimate karate competition with the help of Mr. Han and Daniel LaRusso. Registration is not required.

• Where: 1 Lee Ave., Lindenhurst

• Time: 1-3:45 p.m.

• Contact: lindenhurstlibrary.org or (631) 957-7755

Feb 28

Native Garden Design Workshop

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

• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport

• Time: 10 a.m.-noon

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

mar

Winter Concert ‘Salon’ Series

1

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

• Where: 440 Montauk Highway, Great River

• Time: 1 p.m.

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

In concert

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame welcomes the Bob Morris Irish Band. Entertaining Long Island audiences or over 20 years, the band is dedicated to performing the traditional tunes and songs of Ireland. Experience the joyful sounds of fiddles, banjos, flutes, mandolin, harmonica, bodhran and guitar. Expect plenty of jigs and reels along with many of your favorite sing along songs from old Erin.

• Where: 97 Main St., Stony Brook

• Time: 3 p.m.

• Contact: ticketmaster.com or paramountny.com

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

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

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

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

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

• Contact: (631) 854-4974

Kid Zone

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

• Where: 180 Little Neck Road, Centerport

• Time: 7 p.m.

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

Having an event?

Children in grades

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

• Where: 79 E. Main St., Babylon

• Time: 5:30-7 p.m.

• Contact: (631) 587-5838 mar

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.

Jean-Pierre encourages civic engagement

By ABBY GIBSON & KUMBA JAGNE Interns

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“She talked about seeing someone touch President

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

SUFFOLK COUNTY

U.S. BANK TRUST

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER

TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff against ANNA DECANIO, et al Defendant(s)

Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, NY 10591.

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered December 10, 2025, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at Babylon Townhall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on March 11, 2026 at 9:30 AM. Premises known as 59 Yacht Club Road, Babylon, NY 11702. District 0102 Sec 022.00 Block 03.00 Lot 042.000. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Village of Babylon, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $274,327.07 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 201669/2022. Cash will not be accepted at the sale.The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District's Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing.

Ronald L. Goldsein, Esq., Referee File # 2236-000488 26-68 2/5,12, 19, 26

REFEREE'S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS CWALT, INC. ALTERNATIVE LOAN TRUST 2006J4, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-J4, Plaintiff - against - WILLIAM ESTRADA, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on May 6, 2024. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on the 6th day of March, 2026 at 10:00 AM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being at North Amityville, in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York. Premises known as 8 Russell Court, Copiague, NY 11726.

(District: 0100, Section: 202.00, Block: 01.00, Lot: 024.000)

Approximate amount of lien $626,157.30 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 601247/2023. Richard Lavorata, Jr., Esq., Referee.

McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840 New York, NY 10170

Tel. 347/286-7409

For sale information, please visit Auction. com at www.Auction. com or call (800) 2802832

Dated: January 9, 2026

During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. Auction Locations are subject to change. 26-65. 2/5, 12, 19, 26

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

Wells Fargo, National Association, not in its individual or banking capacity, but solely as Indenture Trustee of the Bear Stearns Structured Products Trust 2007-EMX1, Plaintiff AGAINST

Luis A. Ramirez, if he be living or if he be dead, his spouses, heirs, devisees, distributees and successors in interest, all of whom and whose names and places of residence are unknown to Plaintiff; Marleni Macias; et al., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 4, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York on March 12,2026, at 2:00PM, premises known as 58 Brook Avenue, Wyandanch, NY 11798. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with

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the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk, State of New York, District 0100 Section 083.00 Block 02.00 Lot 130.000. Approximate amount of judgment $595,811.70 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 602649/2024.

Robert A. Macedonio, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC

Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff

175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792

Dated: January 21, 2026

For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2831 26-67. 2/5,12, 19, 26

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF SUFFOLK DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY AS TRUSTEE FOR HARBORVIEW 2006-8 Plaintiff, Against REBECCA BUCICCHIA, PHILIP BUCICCHIA, et al

Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 12/29/2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757, on 3/25/2026 at 9:00AM, premises known as 128 Bond Street, West Babylon, NY 11704, and described as follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in

the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York.

District 0100 Section 107.00 Block 02.00 Lot 038.000

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $462,740.93 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 602805/2022

Sabita HajareeRamsaran, Esq., Referee. - Cash bids will not be accepted at this Auction.

MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573

Dated: 1/14/2026 File Number: 272100011 CA 26-88. 2/19, 26, 3/5, 12

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR STRUCTURED ASSET SECURITIES CORPORATION MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-GEL2, Plaintiff AGAINST LUIS A. ESPINAL LOPEZ AKA LUIS ALONSO ESPINAL LOPEZ, PIERRE JUSTIN, ET AL., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered July 18, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on March 23, 2026 at 2:30 PM, premises known as 128 North 17th Street, Wyandanch, NY 11798. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being at Wyandanch, in

the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0100, Section 013.00, Block 03.00, Lot 129.000. Approximate amount of judgment $719,102.74 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #603217/2017. F or sale information, please contact XOME at www.Xome.com or call (844) 400-9633.

Joseph L. Fritz, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 16-005240 88886 26-89. 2/19, 26, 3/5, 12

Notice is hereby given that a license, Application ID: NA-0340-26102290 for liquor, beer, wine, and cider has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor, beer, wine, and cider at retail in a Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 43 Green Street, Huntington, NY 11743, County of Suffolk, for on premises consumption at Huntington is Fine Inc.  26-85. 2/19, 26

Notice is hereby given that a license, number 034026-101296 for a Restaurant OnPremises Liquor has been applied for by the undersigned to sell beer, cider, liquor and/or wine at retail in a restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 375 Oak Street, Copiague, NY 11726 for on premises consumption. 26-99. 2/26, 3/5

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK TIAA, FSB, -againstPUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR OF SUFFOLK COUNTY, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on December 16, 2025, wherein TIAA, FSB is the Plaintiff and PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR OF SUFFOLK COUNTY, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the BABYLON TOWN HALL, 200 EAST SUNRISE HIGHWAY, NORTH LINDENHURST, NY 11757, on March 6, 2026 at 1:30PM, premises known as 215 EAST BELLE TERRE AVE, LINDENHURST, NY 11757; and the following tax map identification: 0100-189.00-03.00-046.000.

ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING AT COPIAGUE IN THE TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK, STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 603682/2017. Latoya Roberta-Angela James, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/ CLERK DIRECTIVES.

26-74. 2/5, 12, 19, 26

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK –COUNTY OF SUFFOLK INDEX NO.

603147/2024 FILED: 4/4/2024

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS WITH NOTICE OF ACTION TO FORECLOSE A MORTGAGE.

Property: 59 Williams Avenue, Amityville, New York 11701 Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for GSAA Home Equity Trust 2006-8, AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2006-8, Plaintiff, against Bernard Durham and Valerie Durham if living, and if he/she any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or generally or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors; administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; The People of the State of New York, The United States of America, and “JOHN DOE #1,” through “JOHN DOE #12,”

the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises being foreclosed herein, Defendants. WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE, TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the Plaintiff's attorneys within 20 days after the service of this summons exclusive of the day of service or within 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 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. HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS IN FORECLOSURE NEW YORK STATE LAW REQUIRES THAT WE SEND YOU THIS NOTICE ABOUT THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY. SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. IF YOU FAIL TO RESPOND TO THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT IN THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION, YOU MAY LOSE YOUR HOME. PLEASE READ THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT CAREFULLY. YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATLEY CONTACT AN ATTORNEY OR YOUR LOCAL LEGAL AID OFICE TO OBTAIN ADVICE ON HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF. SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE THE STATE ENCOURAGES YOU TO BECOME INFORMED ABOUT YOUR OPTIONS IN FORECLOSURE. IN ADDITION TO SEEKING ASSISTANCE FROM AN ATTORNEY OR LEGAL AID OFFICE, THERE ARE GOVERNMENT AGENCIES AND NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS THAT YOU MAY

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CONTACT FOR INFORMATION ABOUT POSSIBLE OPTIONS, INCLUDING TRYING TO WORK WITH YOUR LENDER DURING THIS PROCESS. TO LOCATE AN ENTITY NEAR YOU, YOU MAY CALL THE TOLL-FREE HELPLINE MAINTAINED BY THE NEW YORK STATE BANKING DEPARTMENT AT 1-877-2265697 OR VISIT THE DEPARTMENT`S WEBSITE AT www. DFS.NY.GOV RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO LEAVE YOUR HOME AT THIS TIME. YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO STAY IN YOUR HOME DURING THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO LEAVE YOUR HOME UNLESS AND UNTIL YOUR PROPERTY IS SOLD AT AUCTION PURSUANT TO A JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AND SALE. REGARDLESS OF WHETHER YOU CHOOSE TO REMAIN IN YOUR HOME, YOU ARE REQUIRED TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR PROPERTY AND PAY PROPERTY TAXES IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE AND LOCAL LAW. FORECLOSURE RESCUE SCAMS BE CAREFUL OF PEOPLE WHO APPROACH YOU WITH OFFERS TO "SAVE" YOUR HOME. THERE ARE INDIVIDUALS WHO WATCH FOR NOTICES OF FORECLOSURE ACTIONS IN ORDER TO UNFAIRLY PROFIT FROM A HOMEOWNER`S DISTRESS. YOU SHOULD BE EXTREMELY CARE -

FUL ABOUT ANY SUCH PROMISES AND ANY SUGGESTIONS THAT YOU PAY THEM A FEE OR SIGN OVER YOUR DEED. STATE LAW REQUIRES ANYONE OFFERING SUCH SERVICES FOR PROFIT TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WHICH FULLY DESCRIBES THE SERVICES THEY WILL PERFORM AND FEES THEY WILL CHARGE, AND WHICH PROHIBITS THEM FROM TAKING ANY MONEY FROM YOU UNTIL THEY HAVE COMPLETED ALL SUCH PROMISED SERVICES. Notice to Tenants of Buildings in Foreclosure New York State Law requires that we provide you this notice about the foreclosure process. Please read it carefully. We, Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for GSAA Home Equity Trust 2006-8, AssetBacked Certificates, Series 2006-8 by Select Portfolio Servicing, Inc., are the foreclosing party and are located at 3815 South West Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah 84115. We can be reached at (800) 269-0990. The dwelling where your apartment is located is the subject of a foreclosure proceeding. If you have a lease, are not the owner of the residence, and the lease requires payment of rent that at the time it was entered into was not substantially less than the fair market rent for the property, you may be entitled to remain in occupancy for the remain der of your lease term. If you do not have a lease, you will be entitled to remain in your home until ninety days after any person or entity who acquires title to

the property provides you with a notice as required by section 1305 of the Real Property Actions and Proceedings Law. The notice shall provide information regarding the name and address of the new owner and your rights to remain in your home. These rights are in addition to any others you may have if you are a subsidized tenant under federal, state or local law or if you are a tenant subject to rent control, rent stabilization or a federal statutory scheme. ALL RENTSTABILIZED TENANTS AND RENTCONTROLLED TENANTS ARE PROTECTED UNDER THE RENT REGULATIONS WITH RESPECT TO EVICTION AND LEASE RENEWALS. THESE RIGHTS ARE UNAFFECTED BY A BUILDING ENTERING FORECLOSURE STATUS. THE TENANTS IN RENT-STABILIZED AND RENT-CONTROLLED BUILDINGS CONTINUE TO BE AFFORDED THE SAME LEVEL OF PROTECTION EVEN THOUGH THE BUILDING IS THE SUBJECT OF FORECLOSURE. EVICTIONS CAN ONLY OCCUR IN NEW YORK STATE PURSUANT TO A COURT ORDER AND AFTER A FULL HEARING IN COURT. IF YOU NEED FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL THE NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF FINANCIAL SERVICES' TOLLFREE HELPLINE AT 1-877-226-5697 OR VISIT THE DEPARTMENT'S WEBSITE AT WWW.DFS. NY.GOV. Sheldon May & Associates, P.C., Ted Eric May, Esq., Attorneys for

Plaintiff, Office & Post Office Address 255 Merrick Road, Rockville Centre, NY 11570. (516) 763-3200 File #39450 26-72. 2/5,12, 19, 26

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CREDIT SUISSE FIRST

BOSTON MORTGAGE SECURITIES CORP., ADJUSTABLE RATE MORTGAGE TRUST 2006-3

Plaintiff Against SANDRA BURNS, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF JUAN COLLADO AND AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN TO JUAN COLLADO; JUAN DANIEL COLLADO, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN TO JUAN COLLADO; MARILIN COLLADO AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN TO JUAN COLLADO; et al

Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 12/10/2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757, on 3/11/2026 at 11:00AM, premises known as 330 Vespucci Avenue, Copiague, NY 11726, and described as follows:

ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York. District 0100 Section 199.00 Block 01.00 Lot

015.000

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $725,326.55 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 024659/2008

Thomas A. Abbate, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573

Dated: 1/7/2026 File Number: 14-306870 CA 26-73. 2/5,12, 19, 26

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.

NAME: Jamie Vene Properties LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York, (SSNY) on 11/24/2025 NY Office location: Suffolk SSNY has been designated as an agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to: Jamie Swenton, 163 Baylawn Ave, Copiague, NY 11726

Purpose: To engage in any lawful act or activity.

26-113 2/26, 3/5, 12, 19, 26, 4/2

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT

COUNTY OF Suffolk, AJAX Mortgage Loan Trust 2023-B, Mortgage-Backed Securities, Series 2023-B, by U.S. Bank Trust Company, National Association, as Indenture Trustee, Plaintiff, vs. Kamona Ayres a/k/a Ramona Ayres, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on March 4, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on March 19, 2026 at 11:00 a.m., premises known as 71 Ronald Drive North a/k/a North Ronald Drive, Amityville, NY 11701. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Amityville, in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0100, Section 165.00, Block 02.00 and Lot 003.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $762,116.69 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #610279/2022.

William J. Garry, Esq, Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 212836-1 26-78. 2/12, 19, 26, 3/5

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF Suffolk, Wilmington Savings FunD Society, FSB, As Owner Trustee of the Residential Credit Opportunitiees Trust VI-A, Plaintiff, vs. Ralph A. Santiago a/k/a Ralph Santiago,

ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on December 29, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on March 18, 2026 at 1:00 p.m., premises known as 152 Gracie Drive, North Babylon, NY 11703. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0100, Section 120.00, Block 02.00 and Lot 007.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $455,388.60 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 604149/2025.

Francesco P. Tini, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 201344-1 26-79. 2/12, 19, 26, 3/5

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT SUFFOLK COUNTY FREEDOM MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Plaintiff against CHRISTOPHER CHODKOWSKI, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840, New York, NY 10170. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered November 13, 2025, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at Babylon Townhall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst,

NY 11757 on March 18, 2026 at 1:00 PM. Premises known as 222 Lido Pkwy, Lindenhurst, NY 11757. District 0100 Sec 227.00 Block 03.00 Lot 034.000. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $454,841.16 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 628798/2023. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District's Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. Deposit by certified funds only, made payable to the referee. For sale information, please contact XOME at www.Xome.com or call (844)400-9633.

Jonathan A Baum, Esq., Referee File # 23-16241NY 26-80. 2/12, 19, 26, 3/5

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF SUFFOLK CARRINGTON MORTGAGE SERVICES, LLC Plaintiff, Against JOHN DOE AND JANE DOE 1 THROUGH 50, INTENDING TO BE THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, DISTRIBUTEES, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, TRUSTEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, AND ASSIGNEES OF THE ESTATE OF GERTRUDE CABARRUS, WHO WAS BORN IN 1946 AND DIED ON MARCH 18, 2021, A RESIDENT OF SUFFOLK

Public Notices

COUNTY WHOSE LAST KNOWN ADDRESS 109 N. 19TH STREET, WHEATLEY HEIGHTS, NEW YORK 11798, THEIR SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST IF ANY OF THE AFORESAID DEFENDANTS BE DECEASED, THEIR RESPECTIVE HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST OF THE AFORESAID CLASSES OF PERSON, IF THEY OR ANY OF THEM BE DEAD, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE HUSBANDS, WIVES OR WIDOWS, IF ANY, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES AND PLACES, ARE UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, et al. Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 04/08/2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757, on 3/13/2026 at 1:30PM, premises known as 109 N. 19th Street, Wheatley Heights, NY 11798, and described as follows:

ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York. District 0100 Section 039.00 Block 02.00 Lot 077.000

The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $373,895.78 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 622857/2021

Arthur J. Burdette, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEIS -

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC D/B/A MR. COOPER, -againstPETER WARDE, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on December 11, 2025, wherein NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC D/B/A MR. COOPER is the Plaintiff and PETER WARDE, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the BABYLON TOWN HALL, 200 EAST SUNRISE HIGHWAY, NORTH LINDENHURST, NY 11757, on March 12, 2026 at 1:30PM, premises known as 44 BROOKTREE CIRCLE, LINDENHURST, NY 11757; and the following tax map identification: 0103-017.00-03.00-027.000.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE INCORPORATED VILLAGE OF LINDENHURST, TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 624171/2017. Robert A. Macedonio, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/ CLERK DIRECTIVES. 26-75. 2/5,12, 19, 26

BERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573 Dated: 1/8/2026 File Number: 21-300506 CA 26-81. 2/12, 19, 26, 3/5

Notice of formation of Hampton Security & Fire Systems LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 02/06/2026. Office located in Suffolk. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC 77 County Road 39A, South Hampton, NY 11968 Purpose: any lawful purpose 26-86. 2/19, 26, 3/5, 12, 19, 26

1343 5th Avenue, Bay Shore, NY 11706. District 0500 Sec 315.00 Block 01.00 Lot 097.00. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Township of Islip, County of Suffolk and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $331,519.67 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 201765/2022. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District's Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing.

Ryan Nicholas Brown, Esq., Referee File # XSWMN025 26-66 2/5,12, 19, 26

and being in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, District 0100, Section 116.00, Block 05.00 and Lot 038.000. Approximate amount of judgment is $936,127.26 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 617365/2018.

Christopher S. Como, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.:180377-7 26-64 2/5, 12, 19, 26

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

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT SUFFOLK COUNTY SUN WEST MORTGAGE COMPANY, INC., Plaintiff against LIZZETTE PILTCH, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS ADMINISTRATRIX OF THE ESTATE OF GILBERT GEIGEL SR. A/K/A GILBERT GEIGEL, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Fein Such & Crane, LLP, 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800, Rochester, NY 14614.

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered November 20, 2025, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at Islip Town Hall, 655 Main St., Islip, NY 11751 on March 9, 2026 at 4:00 PM. Premises known as

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF Suffolk, Wilmington Trust, National Association, Not In Its Individual Capacity, But Solely As Trustee For MFRA Trust 2015-1, Plaintiff, vs. Jean W. Laguerre, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Amended Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on December 10, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, North Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on March 10, 2026 at 9:00 a.m., premises known as 84 Herman Avenue, North Babylon, NY 11703. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying

1. Mohammad Ahad

42 Jaqueline Way N. Babylon NY 11703

SCTM NO: 0100-89.01-1-42

2. CCDP Homes LLC

183 Commack Rd. Deer Park NY 11729

SCTM NO: 010090-1-65

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

SCTM NO: 010056-3-41 26-109 2/26

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK

COUNTY OF SUFFOLK NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC, -againstANTHONY D'URSO

A/K/A ANTHONY DURSO, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on November 21, 2025, wherein NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC is the Plaintiff and ANTHONY D'URSO

A/K/A ANTHONY DURSO, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the BABYLON TOWN HALL, 200 EAST SUNRISE HIGHWAY, NORTH LINDENHURST, NY 11757, on February 12, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 128 WEST 17TH STREET, DEER PARK, NY 11729; and the following tax map identification: 0100059.00-03.00-165.000. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 623833/2024. Robert Fuchs, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted

Notice of formation of TSB PROPERTIES, LLC (“the LLC”). Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (“SSNY”) on January 7, 2026. Office location: Suffolk County. Street address of LLC: 899 Deer Park Ave, North Babylon, NY 11703. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to the LLC: 899 Deer Park Avenue, North Babylon, NY 11703. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

26-54. 1/29, 2/5, 12, 19, 26, 3/5

Notice of formation of NK PROFESSIONAL SERVICES LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 11/05/2025. Office located in Suffolk County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to NK PROFESSIONAL SERVICES LLC 199 W 7th St, Deer Park, NY 11729. Purpose: Any Lawful act. 26-45. 1/22, 29, 2/5, 12, 19, 26

SEQ CHAPTER \h \r 1NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF SUFFOLK BOARD OF MANAGERS OF CAMBRIDGE SQUARE CONDOMINIUM, Plaintiff, against PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR OF SUFFOLK COUNTY AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF ANTOINETTE VACCARO; JOHN DIPIPPA; AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ANTOINETTE VACCARO; U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOP-

Public Notices

MENT F/K/A SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA- INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; and "JOHN DOE" and "JANE DOE", Defendants. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered herein and dated September 2, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the front steps of the Babylon Town Hall, 200 E. Sunrise Highway, N. Lindenhurst, New York, on March 6, 2026 at 9:30 a.m. premises being in the Town of Babylon, at Copiague, County of Suffolk and State of New York, known as Unit Number 43 as shown on condominium plan entitled, "Cambridge Square Condominium", flied 8/4/87 in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk as Map Number 167 together with an undivided .470 percent interest as tenant in common in the common elements of the Condominium described in the declaration of Condominium entitled, “Cambridge Square Condominium" and recorded in the Suffolk County Clerk's Office in Liber 1032 at Page 162. Said premises being known as 43 Cambridge Drive West, Copiague, New York (District 0100 Section 198.01 Block 01.00 and Lot 043.000). Said premises will be sold subject to zoning restrictions, covenants, easements, conditions, reservations and agreements, if any; subject to any state of facts as may appear from an accurate survey; subject to facts as to possession and occupancy and subject

to whatever physical condition of the premises may be; subject to any violations of the zoning and other municipal ordinances and regulations, if any, and if the United States of America should file a tax lien, or other lien, subject to the equity of redemption of the United States of America; subject to the rights of any lienors of record whose liens have not been foreclosed herein, if any; subject to the rights of holders of security in fixtures as defined by the Uniform Commercial Code; subject to taxes, assessments and water rates which are liens on the premises at the time of sale, with accrued interest or penalties thereon; and a first mortgage held by Bank of America, N.A., mortgagee, given to Antoinette Vaccaro, mortgagor, in the original amount of $420,000.00 dated 12/9/2008 and recorded 12/19/2008 in Liber 21776 at page 696. Said mortgage having been assigned from Bank of America, N.A. to Champion Mortgage Company, by Assignment of Mortgage dated 11/20/2012 and recorded 1/22/2013 in Liber 22295 at page 570. Said mortgage having been assigned from Nationstar Mortgage LLC d/b/a Champion Mortgage Company to Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, by Assignment of Mortgage dated 7/6/2018 and recorded 9/25/2018 in Liber 22962 at page 324. Index No. 625163/2024 Dated: January 7, 2026

Richard Lavorata, Jr., Esq., Referee Cohen, Warren, Meyer & Gitter, P.C., Attorneys for Plaintiff, 98 Maple Avenue, Suite 100, Smithtown, NY 11787 26-70. 2/5,12, 19, 26

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

WELLS FARGO USA HOLDINGS, INC., -againstJUDITH VOGEL, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on October 26, 2023, wherein WELLS FARGO USA HOLDINGS, INC. is the Plaintiff and JUDITH VOGEL, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the BABYLON TOWN HALL, 200 EAST SUNRISE HIGHWAY, NORTH LINDENHURST, NY 11757, on March 23, 2026 at 3:00PM, premises known as 222A OAK BEACH RD, OAK BEACH, NY 11702; and the following tax map identification: 0100242.00-01.00-021.000. ALL THAT CERTAIN LOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATED LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 600144/2017. Robert P. Valletti, Esq.Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCA -

TION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

26-90 2/19, 26, 3/5, 12

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., -againstMARIE C. LANES A/K/A MARIE LANES A/K/A MARIE C. WILLOUGHBY, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on February 5, 2025, wherein BANK OF AMERICA, N.A. is the Plaintiff and MARIE C. LANES A/K/A MARIE

LANES A/K/A MARIE C. WILLOUGHBY, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the BABYLON TOWN HALL, 200 EAST SUNRISE HIGHWAY, NORTH LINDENHURST, NY 11757, on March 25, 2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 512 LEADER AVENUE, NORTH BABYLON, NY 11703; and the following tax map identification: 0100116.00-01.00-106.000. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN NORTH BABYLON, TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to

provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 601035/2019. James A. Pascarella, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/ CLERK DIRECTIVES.

26-92. 2/19, 26, 3/5, 12

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF Rare Mix Group LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/13/2025. Office located in Suffolk County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to 23 Briarwood Road, Wyandanch, NY 11798. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

26-87. 2/19, 26, 3/5, 12, 19, 26

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY SENECA RESTAURANT HOLDING, LLC. Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 01/13/26. Office in Suffolk Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 840 Long Island Ave., Deer Park, NY 11729. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

26-52. 1/22, 29, 2/5, 12, 19, 26

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

U.S. Bank National Association, successorin-interest to Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to LaSalle Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Structured Asset Investment Loan Trust, Mortgage PassThrough Certificates, Series 2004-11, Plaintiff AGAINST Susan Papszycki; Spencer Papszycki; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered August 14, 2018, and Resettled August 15, 2019, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on March 11,2026 at 2:00PM, premises known as 132 Central Avenue, Deer Park, NY 11729. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Deer Park, in the Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk, State of New York, District 0100 Section 088.00 Block 03.00 Lot 023.001. Approximate amount of judgment $321,333.69 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 609341/2015. Thomas G. Teresky, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792

Dated: January 23, 2026

For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2831 26-69. 2/5,12, 19, 26

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING, BUDGET

VOTE AND ELECTION OF BABYLON PUBLIC LIBRARY, BABYLON UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

BABYLON, NEW YORK

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN, that a public hearing will be held by the Board of Trustees of Babylon Public Library, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk, State of New York will be held at the Babylon Public Library, 24 S. Carll Avenue, Babylon, New York in said District on, March 31, 2026, at 6:30 P.M., for the purpose of discussing expenditures contained in the proposed budget for the fiscal year 2026–2027. Copies of the budget document will be made available to District residents commencing March 24, 2026, upon request, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. prevailing time, in the office of the District Clerk located in the Superintendent’s Office of the Administration Building.

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN, that the vote and election will be held on TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2026, between the hours of 12 Noon and 8:00 P.M., at the BABYLON PUBLIC LIBRARY for the following purposes of voting by the qualified voters on the following separate matters:

(a) To approve or disapprove the proposed library budget (supplemented or amended as the case may be) of estimated expenses for the ensuing year as submitted by the Library Board of Trustees.

(b) Any other questions or propositions

as to matters or expenditures or authority to levy taxes that may be presented for a vote under the Education Law.

PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that at the said vote and election to be conducted on April 14, 2026, one (1) member is to be elected to the Board of Trustees as follows: ONE (1) member is to be elected to the Board of Trustees of the Babylon Public Library for a full term of five (5) years commencing July 1, 2026 and expiring June 30, 2031.

PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE, that all nominating petitions of candidates for the office of member of the Trustees of the Babylon Public Library must be filed with the Clerk of the Babylon School District, not later than March 16, 2026, between the hours of 9:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. prevailing time, whose office is located in the Office of the Superintendent of Schools at the District’s Administration Building at 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, New York. Nominating petitions must contain at least twenty-five (25) signatures of qualified voters. Said petition must also state the name and residence of each signer and must state the name and residence of the candidate. Nominating petitions shall not describe any specific vacancy upon the Board for which the candidate is nominated.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that personal registration of voters is required. If a voter has heretofore registered and has voted in an annual or special district meeting within the last four (4) calendar

years, he/she is eligible to vote at this election. All other persons who wish to vote must register. Registration will be conducted up to and including April 9, 2026, from 9:00 A.M. to 1:30 P.M. on days when school is in session at the Office of the District Clerk, located at 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, New York. The register so prepared will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District between the hours of 9:30 A.M. and 1:30 P.M. on each of the five (5) days prior to the day set for the election, excluding Sunday, and between the hours of 9:30 A.M. and 1:30 P.M. on Saturday, April 11, 2026 and Monday, April 13, 2026 at the Babylon Public Library, 24 S. Carll Avenue, Babylon, New York, and at the polling place on election day.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that during voting hours on April 14, 2026, the Board of Registration will meet at the Babylon Public Library, 24 S. Carll Avenue, Babylon, New York for the purpose of preparing a register for elections held subsequent thereto. The voting will be by paper ballot. The polls will be open at 12:00 noon and remain open until 8:00 P.M. and as long as may be necessary to enable the voters then present to cast their ballots.

AND FURTHER

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that a copy of such budget or statement may be obtained beginning, March 24, 2026 by any resident of the District upon request during the hours of 9:30 A.M. and 4 P.M., except Saturdays and Sundays, at the Babylon

Public Notices

Public Library, 24 S. Carll Avenue, Babylon, NY 11702, and the Principal’s office in each of the following school buildings during school business hours:

•Babylon Public Schools, Central Office, 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon

•Babylon Elementary School, 171 Ralph Avenue, Babylon

•Babylon Memorial Grade School, 169 Park Avenue, Babylon

•Babylon JuniorSenior High School, 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon

These documents will also be available on the Babylon Public Library website at: www. babylonlibrary.org

PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE, that absentee ballots and early mail ballots will be available for the election of Members of the Board of Trustees and the Budget vote. Applications for absentee ballots and early mail ballots may be received by the District Clerk no earlier than the thirtieth (30) day, before the election for which it is sought. Applications for absentee ballots will be available at the Babylon Public Library during library hours and on the Babylon Public Library website – www. babylonlibrary.org. Applications for early mail ballots will be available in the Office of the District Clerk, which is located in the Superintendent’s Office at the District’s Administration Building. To have an absentee ballot or early mail ballot mailed to your home, an applicable completed and signed application must be in the District Clerk’s Office no later than 5:00 P.M. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. Application for an absentee ballot or an early mail

ballot may be made in person from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on any school day and up until 5:00 p.m. on April 13, 2026. Absentee ballots and early mail ballots will be accepted in the Office of the District Clerk of the school district no later than 5:00 p.m. on April 14, 2026. No absentee or early mail ballot shall be canvassed unless it shall have been received in the Office of the District Clerk no later than 5 P.M. of the date of the Vote. Applications can also be downloaded from the Library’s website at: www.babylonlibrary. org

The right to vote by absentee ballot or early mail ballot will be subject to the approval of the Board of Registration, or the district clerk or designee, as applicable.

A list of all persons to whom absentee ballots and early mail ballots are issued will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the Office of the District Clerk between the hours of 9:00 A.M. and 1:30 P.M. commencing with the issuance of such ballots and for each of the five (5) days prior to the day of the election, excluding Sunday; and between the hours of 9:30 A.M. and 1:30 P.M. on Saturday, April 11, 2026 and Monday, April 13, 2026 at the Babylon Public Library, 24 S. Carll Avenue, Babylon, New York, and at the polling place on election day.

FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Military voters who are not currently registered to vote must apply to register as a qualified voter by contacting the District Clerk at 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, New

York 11702 or by email to the District Clerk at lmcgarvey@babylonufsd.com or fax sent to 631-893-7935. The Military voter may indicate their preference for receiving the registration application by mail, facsimile or electronic mail (email). The application to register as a qualified voter must be received no later than 5:00 P.M. on the twenty-sixth (26th) day before the election which is March 19, 2026. The register of voters prepared and filed in the District Clerk’s office shall include the names of all military voters who submit a valid military voter registration. A military voter means a qualified voter of New York State who is in actual military service and will, therefore, be absent from the District in which he or she is qualified to vote on the day of registration or election or is discharged from military service within 30 days of an election, or a spouse, parent, child or dependent of the military voter, accompanying or being with such voter, if a qualified voter of New York State and a resident of the same school district as the military voter, or military personnel residing on a military base within a school district in New York State for a period of 30 days immediately preceding said Vote.

FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Military voters who are qualified voters of the school district may apply for a military ballot. A military ballot application may be requested from the District Clerk and must be returned, in person or by mail, to the Office of the District Clerk at 50

Railroad Avenue, Babylon, New York 11702, not later than 5:00 P.M. on the twenty-sixth (26th) day before the election. A military voter may indicate their preference for receiving the military ballot application by mail, facsimile transmission, or e-mail. Military ballots must be received by the District Clerk: 1) before the close of the polls on April 14, 2026 and showing a cancellation mark of the U.S. postal service, or a foreign country's postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt of another agency of the U.S. government or 2) by 5:00 p.m. on the date set for the election and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereof, with a date which is ascertained not to be later than the day before the election. Irrespective of the preferred mode of transmission, the military ballot application and military ballot must be returned by mail or in person. A list of all persons to whom military ballots shall have been issued will be available for inspection to qualified voters of the District in the office of the District Clerk during regular office hours until the day of the vote.

PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the vote on all propositions and the election of candidates on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 will be conducted by paper ballot. It being expressly understood that the intent of the Library is to comply with any legislation stemming from the current coronavirus pandemic. Thus, all references to the timing, location, and manner of hearings, registration, and vot-

ing in the budget vote and election are subject to modification based on applicable legislation or direction by an entity with jurisdiction over the Library.

QUALIFICATIONS

FOR VOTING AT ANY SCHOOL DISTRICT MEETING

A person must be:

•A citizen of the United States

•Eighteen or more years of age

•A resident of the District for a period of thirty days or more next preceding the Election at which he offers to vote

•Registered to vote in Suffolk County or the Babylon School District Elections

DATED: January 20, 2026

Babylon, New York By Order of the Board of Trustees of Babylon Public Library, Babylon Union Free School District, Town of Babylon, Suffolk County, New York 26-100. 2/26, 3/5, 12, 19

Aviso De Audiencia

Pública, Votación Del Presupuesto y Elecciones de la Biblioteca

Pública de Babylon, Distrito Escolar de Babylon, Pueblo de Babylon, Municipio de Babylon, Condado de Suffolk, Nueva York

POR LA PRESENTE

SE NOTIFICA que la Junta Directiva de la Biblioteca Pública de Babylon, pueblo de Babylon, Condado de Suffolk, Estado de Nueva York llevará a cabo una audiencia pública en la Biblioteca Pública de Babylon, 24 S. Carll Avenue, Babylon, Nueva York en dicho Distrito el 31 de marzo de 2026 a las 6:30 P.M. con el fin de discutir los gastos contenidos en el proyecto de presupuesto para el año fiscal 2026-2027. Copias del documento presupuestario estarán disponibles con previa solicitud a los residentes del Distrito a partir del 24 de marzo de 2026, entre las 9:00 A.M. y las 4:00 P.M., en la oficina de la Sra. Linda McGarvey, secretaria del Distrito Escolar de Babylon que está ubicada en la Oficina del Superintendente (Edificio de Administración.)

POR LA PRESENTE

SE NOTIFICA que la votación y la elección se llevarán a cabo el MARTES 14 DE ABRIL DE 2026, entre las 12 del mediodía y las 8:00 de la noche en la BIBLIOTECA PÚBLICA DE BABYLON para los siguientes propósitos de votación por parte de los votantes calificados sobre los siguientes asuntos separados:

(a) Aprobar o desaprobar el presupuesto propuesto por la biblioteca (complementado o enmendado, según sea el caso) de los gastos estimados para el año siguiente, según lo presentado por la Junta Directiva de la Biblioteca.

b) Cualquier otra cuestión o proposición relativa a asuntos, gastos o autoridad para

recaudar impuestos que se someta a votación en virtud de la Ley de Educación.

TENGA EN CUENTA que en dicha votación y elección del 14 de abril de 2026, se elegirá un (1) miembro para la Junta Directiva de la siguiente manera: UN (1) miembro será elegido para la Junta Directiva de la Biblioteca Pública de Babylon por un período completo de cinco (5) años a partir del primero de julio de 2026 y hasta el 30 de junio de 2031.

TENGA EN CUENTA que todas las peticiones de nominación de candidatos para el cargo de miembro de la Junta Directiva de la Biblioteca Pública de Babylon deben presentarse ante la secretaria del Distrito Escolar de Babylon, la Sra. Linda McGarvey, a más tardar el 16 de marzo de 2026, entre las 9:00 A.M. y las 5:00 P.M., cuya oficina está ubicada en la Oficina del Superintendente de Escuelas (el Edificio de Administración del Distrito escolar) en 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, Nueva York. Las peticiones de nominación deben contener al menos veinticinco (25) firmas de votantes calificados. Dicha petición también debe indicar el nombre y la residencia de cada firmante, y debe indicar el nombre y la residencia del candidato. Las peticiones de nominación no describirán ninguna vacante específica en la Junta para la cual el candidato es nominado.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL de que se requiere el registro personal de los votantes. Si un votante se ha registrado hasta ahora y ha votado en una reunión anual o especial del distrito dentro de los últimos cuatro (4) años calendario, él/ella es eleg-

ible para votar en esta elección. Todas las demás personas que deseen votar deben registrarse. La inscripción se llevará a cabo hasta e incluyendo el 9 de abril de 2026, de 9:00 A.M. a 1:30 P.M. los días en que la escuela esté en sesión en la Oficina de la secretaria del Distrito, ubicada en 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, Nueva York.

El registro preparado estará disponible para la inspección de cualquier votante calificado del Distrito entre las 9:30 A.M. y la 1:30 P.M. durante cualquiera de los cinco (5) días anteriores al día fijado para la elección, excluyendo el domingo, y entre las 9:30 A.M. y la 1:30 P.M. del sábado 11 de abril 2026 y el lunes 13 de abril de 2026 en la Biblioteca Pública de Babylon, 24 S. Carll Avenue, Babylon, Nueva York, y en el lugar de votación el día de las elecciones.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA

ADEMÁS que, durante el horario de votación del 14 de abril de 2026, la Junta de Registro se reunirá en la Biblioteca Pública de Babylon, 24 S. Carll Avenue, Babylon, Nueva York con el fin de preparar un registro para las elecciones que se celebren con posterioridad.

La votación será por papeleta. Las urnas estarán abiertas a las 12:00 del mediodía y permanecerán abiertas hasta las 8:00 P.M. y el tiempo que sea necesario para permitir que los votantes presentes emitan su voto.

Y POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO

ADICIONAL, que cualquier residente del Distrito puede pedir y obtener una copia de dicho presupuesto o declaración a partir del 24 de marzo de 2026 entre las horas de 9:30 A.M. y 4:00 P.M., exceptuando sábados

Public Notices

y domingos, en la Biblioteca Pública de Babylon, 24 S. Carll Avenue, Babylon, NY 11702. También pueden obtener estos documentos en la oficina del Director Escolar de cada uno de los siguientes edificios escolares durante el horario escolar:

•Oficina Central del Distrito Escolar de Babylon, 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon

•Escuela Primaria de Babylon, 171 Ralph Avenue, Babylon

•Escuela Primaria de Babylon Memorial, 168 Park Avenue, Babylon

•Bachillerato/Preparatoria de Babylon

Junior-Senior High School, 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon Estos documentos también estarán disponibles en el sitio de Internet de la Biblioteca Pública de Babylon en: www.babylonlibrary.org

TENGA EN CUENTA que las boletas de ausencia y las boletas anticipadas por correo estarán disponibles para la elección de los miembros de la Junta Directiva y la votación del Presupuesto. Las solicitudes de boletas de votos de ausencia y boletas anticipadas por correo pueden ser recibidas por la secretaria del distrito escolar no antes del trigésimo (30) día de la elección para la cual se solicita. Las solicitudes para las papeletas de voto en ausencia estarán disponibles en la Biblioteca Pública de Babylon durante el horario de la biblioteca y en el sitio de Internet de la Biblioteca Pública de Babylon – www. babylonlibrary.org. Las solicitudes para boletas anticipadas por correo estarán disponibles en la oficina de la secretaria del distrito escolar, que se encuentra en la Oficina del Superintendente en el Edificio de Administración del Distrito. Para recibir una boleta de voto en ausencia o una boleta

de voto anticipado por correo a su hogar, deberá llenar una solicitud y firmarla. Deberá llegar a la oficina de la secretaria del distrito escolar a más tardar a las 5:00 P.M. del martes 7 de abril de 2026. La solicitud de una boleta de voto de ausencia o una boleta anticipada por correo se puede hacer en persona de 9:00 A.M. a 1:30 P.M. durante los días escolares y hasta las 5:00 P.M. del 13 de abril de 2026. Las boletas de voto de ausencia y las boletas anticipadas por correo se aceptarán en la oficina de la secretaria del distrito escolar, a más tardar a las 5:00 P.M. del 14 de abril de 2026. No se tomará en cuenta ningún voto de ausencia o voto por correo anticipado a menos de que haya sido recibido en la oficina de la secretaria del distrito escolar, a más tardar a las 5 P.M. de la fecha de votación.

Las solicitudes también se pueden descargar desde el sitio de Internet de la Biblioteca en: www.babylonlibrary. org

El derecho a votar por medio de una boleta de voto ausente o una boleta anticipada por correo estará sujeto a la aprobación de la Junta de Registro, o del secretario del distrito o su designado, según corresponda. Una lista de todas las personas que emitieron boletas de voto de ausencia y boletas anticipadas por correo estará disponible para inspección de los votantes calificados del Distrito en la oficina de la secretaria del distrito escolar, entre las 9:00 A.M. y la 1:30 P.M. a partir de la emisión de dichas boletas y los cinco (5) días anteriores al día de la elección, excluyendo el domingo; y entre las 9:30 A.M. y la 1:30 P.M. del sábado

11 de abril de 2026 y el lunes 13 de abril de 2026 en la Biblioteca Pública de Babylon, 24 S. Carll Avenue, Babylon, Nueva York. La lista también se encontrará en el lugar de votación durante el día de las elecciones. POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL de que los votantes militares que no estén actualmente regist rados para votar deberán solicitar registrarse como votantes cualificados comunicándose directamente con la secretaria del distrito escolar (Sra. Linda McGarvey), en 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, New York 11702 o por correo electrónico con ella: lmcgarvey@babylonufsd.com o por fax al 631-883-7835. El votante militar puede indicar su preferencia para recibir la solicitud de registro por correo, fax o correo electrónico. La solicitud de boletas militares debe entregarse a más tardar a las 5:00 P.M. del vigésimo sexto (26) día antes de la elección, que es el 14 de abril de 2026. El registro de votantes será preparado y archivado en la oficina de la secretaria del distrito escolar, e incluirá los nombres de todos los votantes militares que presenten un registro de votantes militares válido. Un votante militar es un votante del estado de Nueva York que está presentemente en servicio militar y, por lo tanto, estará ausente del Distrito en el que está calificado para votar el día de registro o elección o es dado de baja del servicio militar dentro de los 30 días posteriores a una elección. Un votante militar también es un cónyuge, padre, hijo o dependiente del votante militar, que está con dicho militar y es un votante calificado del estado de Nueva York y reside en el mis-

mo distrito escolar que el votante militar, o es un personal militar que reside en una base militar dentro de un distrito escolar en el estado de Nueva York por un período de 30 días inmediatamente antes de dicho voto. POR LA PRESENTE SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL de que los votantes militares que son votantes calificados del distrito escolar pueden solicitar una boleta militar. Pueden solicitar una solicitud de boleta militar a la oficina de la secretaria del distrito escolar, y deberán ser entregados ya sea en persona o por correo a la oficina de la secretaria del distrito escolar (Sra. Linda McGarvey) en 50 Railroad Avenue, Babylon, New York 11702, a más tardar a las 5:00 P.M. del vigésimo sexto (26) día antes de la elección. Un votante militar puede indicar su preferencia por recibir la solicitud de boleta militar por correo, por fax o correo electrónico. Las boletas militares deben ser recibidas por la secretaria del distrito escolar: 1) antes del cierre de las urnas el 14 de abril de 2026 y mostrando una marca de cancelación del servicio postal de los EE.UU., o del servicio postal de un país extranjero, o mostrando un endoso fechado de recibo de otra agencia de gobierno de los EE.UU. o 2) antes de las 5:00 P.M. en la fecha fijada para la elección y firmado y fechado por el votante militar y un testigo del mismo, con una fecha que no se compruebe que será posterior al día anterior a la elección. Independientemente del modo de transmisión preferido, la solicitud de la boleta militar y la boleta militar en sí, deben ser entregados por correo o en perso-

na. Una lista de todas las personas a las que se les hayan emitido boletas militares estará disponible para la inspección de todos los votantes cualificados del Distrito en la oficina de la secretaria del distrito escolar durante el horario regular de oficina hasta el día de la votación. TENGA EN CUENTA que la votación de todas las propuestas y la elección de candidatos el martes 14 de abril de 2026 se llevará a cabo mediante boleta de papel. Quedando expresamente entendido que la intención de la Biblioteca es cumplir con cualquier legislación derivada de la actual pandemia de coronavirus. Por lo tanto, todas las referencias al momento, el lugar y la forma de las audiencias, el registro y la votación y elección del presupuesto están sujetas a modificaciones en función a la legislación aplicable o la dirección de una entidad con jurisdicción gubernamental sobre la Biblioteca. REQUISITOS PARA VOTAR EN CUALQUIER REUNIÓN DEL DISTRITO ESCOLAR

Una persona debe:

•Ser ciudadano de los Estados Unidos

•Tener dieciocho o más años de edad

•Ser residente del Distrito por un período de treinta días o más inmediatamente anterior a la Elección en la que se ofrece a votar

•Estar registrado para votar en las elecciones del condado de Suffolk o del distrito escolar de Babylon FECHADO:20 de enero de 2026 Babylon, Nueva York

Por orden de la Junta Directiva de la Biblioteca Pública de Babylon, Distrito Escolar de Babylon, Pueblo de Babylon, Condado de Suffolk, Nueva York 26-101 2/26, 3/5, 12, 19

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE VILLAGE OF BABYLON\ NOTICE OF TAX SALE

WHEREAS, arrears of the taxes levied for the year 2024 by the Village of Babylon, charged and imposed pursuant to law, remain due and unpaid on the several tracts, lots, pieces, or parcels of land situated in the Village of Babylon, County of Suffolk, State of New York and described in the following list: Names of the owners or occupants are the same as appear on the 2024 Assessment Roll, and the amounts include the taxes, fees, interest charges against properties for such year. The subdivided parcels are described by Section, Block and Lot as shown on the official Tax Map No. 58 of the Village of Babylon approved by the State Tax Commission on December 17th, 1937, and duly filed pursuant to the provisions of the Tax Clerk’s Office. The parcels not subdivided are described by Section and Lot as shown on the said Official Tax Map of the Village of Babylon. Map/Block/Lot Owner Name Owner Name2

002.-01-016\ SCIMONE, PATRICIA

002.-01-017.001 SCIMONE, THOMAS & JOSEPHINE C/O PATRICIA SCIMONE

002.-01-098.002

002.-02-076.001

005.-03-052.001

005.-03-096.010

005.-03-096.100

007.-01-005 GOLTZ, JANET

009.-01-015

009.-02-077.003

016.-02-045 VERDEROSA, DENISE, TRUSTEE OF VERDEROSA IRREV ASSET

016.-02-078 TIGHE, JEFFREY K ANNA MARIA TIGHE 96

016.-04-014 BARREIRO, DAVID BARREIRO, PATRICIA 9 LEWIS CIR

016.-04-049 VIRGA,

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that under the authority given by law, I shall on the 28th day of February, 2026, sell at public auction at 10:00 AM Eastern Standard Time in the Municipal Building at 153 W. Main Street, Babylon Village, County of Suffolk, State of New York, the tax liens on the above-described lots, tracts, pieces, or parcels of land as will be sufficient to pay the unpaid taxes for the year specified, and fees, interest and charges which may be due thereon at the time of sale.

The purchaser(s) at such sale shall pay the amount of their respective bids to the Village Treasurer within (10) days after the sale, and upon such payment, the Treasurer shall give to the purchaser(s) a certificate in writing describing the real estate purchased and the sum paid therefore. (Please note, payment of the taxes due entitles the purchaser(s) to a lien being placed on the property, not an immediate acquisition of said real estate). If any purchaser(s) shall neglect or refuse to pay the amount of their bid or bids within the time described, the Village Treasurer may cancel such sale to such purchaser(s) and the parcel(s) so sold shall be deemed to have been purchased by the Village.

The owner, occupant, or any persons having an interest in any real estate sold for taxes to any party of the Village itself, may redeem the same as provided by the Real Property & Village Laws.

Andrew Reichel Treasurer

Babylon, New York Dated: February 4, 2026

26-82A 2/12, 19, 26

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TR UST, -againstMARTHA WALLACE AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ZETTA N. OWENS, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on December 19, 2025, wherein BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST is the Plaintiff and MARTHA WALLACE AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ZETTA N. OWENS, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the BABYLON TOWN HALL, 200 EAST SUNRISE HIGHWAY, NORTH

LINDENHURST, NY 11757, on March 26, 2026 at 1:30PM, premises known as 43 SPRUCE ROAD, AMITYVILLE, NY 11701; and the following tax map identification: 0100-124.00-01.00006.000. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 601334/2017. Arthur Burdette, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 26-93. 2/19, 26, 3/5, 12

NOTICE OF ANNUAL ELECTION AND BUDGET VOTE OF THE LINDENHURST MEMORIAL LIBRARY

April 14, 2026

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Lindenhurst Memorial Library’s Annual Election and Budget Vote of the qualified voters of the Lindenhurst Union Free School District, Town of Babylon, Suffolk County, New York, will be held at the Lindenhurst Memorial Library (the “Library”), One Lee Avenue, Lindenhurst, NY on April 14, 2026, between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. for the purpose of voting, upon the following items:

• Proposition to adopt the Annual Budget of the Lindenhurst Memorial Library for the 20262027 fiscal year and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the Lindenhurst Union Free School District; and

• Election of one (1) Trustee to the Board of Trustees of the Lindenhurst Memorial Library to fill a five (5) year term commencing July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2031; and

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, copies of a statement of the estimated Library expenditures for the fiscal year 2026-27, may be obtained, beginning March 13, 2026, during the hours in which the Library is regularly open for business and online at www.lindenhurstlibrary.org; and

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that the Library will host a public information meeting for the purposes of discussion of the proposed 202627 Library budget on March 25, 2026

at 6:30pm, in the Library; and

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that candidates for the office of Trustee of the Board of Trustees shall be nominated by petition. Petitions must be filed in the Office of the Clerk of the Library weekdays between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. no later than 5:00pm on Monday, March 9, 2026. Each petition must be signed by at least twenty-five (25) qualified voters of the District and must state the residence of each signer and the name and residence of the candidate; and

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that the Board of Registration will meet at the Library on March 25, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. for the purpose of registering qualified voters who seek to vote at the Annual Library Vote and Election.

Any person shall be entitled to have his/ her name placed upon such register, provided that at such meeting of the Board of Registration, he/she proves to the satisfaction of the Board of Registration to be then or thereafter entitled to vote. The register shall be filed with the Library Director and shall be open for inspection from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on any day (except Saturday or Sunday) beginning March 25, 2026 through April 14, 2026. Residents who voted at an annual or special meeting of the Lindenhurst UFSD or the Library within four (4) years from April 14, 2026, or who registered with the Suffolk County Board of Elections under the provisions of Article 5 of the Election Law, need not re-register; and NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that

applications for early mail or absentee ballots may be made at the Lindenhurst Memorial Library during regular business hours of 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Monday – Friday, beginning Thursday, February 26, 2026. Such applications must be received by the Office of the Clerk of the Library seven (7) days before the day of the vote if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or by the day before the day of the vote if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter. A list of all persons whom early mail or absentee ballots have been issued will be available in the Office of the Clerk of the Library on each of the five (5) days prior to the day of the vote, except Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. No early mail or absentee voter’s ballot shall be canvassed unless it is received in the Office of the Clerk of the Library by 5:00 pm on the date of the election; and NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that a qualified voter whose ability to appear personally at the polling place is substantially impaired by reason of permanent illness or physical disability and whose registration record has been marked “permanently disabled” by the Board of Elections shall be entitled to receive an absentee ballot without making separate application for such absentee ballot; and NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that military voters who are qualified voters of the Lindenhurst Union Free School District may request an application for a military ballot from the Office of the Clerk of the Lindenhurst Memorial Library by mail to Lindenhurst Memorial Library, One Lee

Public Notices

Avenue, Lindenhurst, NY 11757, by email to lkropp@lindenhurstlibrary.org or by fax to 631-957-7114. In such request, the military voter may indicate his/ her preference for receiving the application by mail, fax or email. An application for a military ballot must be returned by mail to the Office of the Clerk of the Library and be received no later than 5:00 p.m. on March 27, 2026. No military ballots will be canvased unless it is received by 5:00 p.m. on April 14, 2026.

Dated: Lindenhurst, NY

BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

JANUARY 21, 2026 OF THE LINDENHURST MEMORIAL LIBRARY

BY:GABRIELLE

GIACOMAZZO, BOARD PRESIDENT 26-102 2/26, 3/12, 26, 4/9

AVISO DE LA ELECCIÓN ANUAL Y DE LA VOTACIÓN DEL PRESUPUESTO DE LA BIBLIOTECA LINDENHURST MEMORIAL LIBRARY 14 de abril de 2026 POR LA PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA QUE, la Elección anual y votación del presupuesto de los votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de la Unión (UFSD) de Lindenhurst, ciudad de Babylon, condado de Suffolk, Nueva York, se celebrará en la biblioteca Lindenhurst Memorial Library (la “Biblioteca”), ubicada en One Lee Avenue, Lindenhurst, NY, el 14 de abril de 2026, entre las 10:00 a.m. y las 8:00 p.m., hora local, a fin de votar, por los siguientes puntos:

• Propuesta para adoptar el Presupuesto Anual de la biblioteca Lindenhurst Memorial Library para el año fiscal 20262027 y para autorizar que el monto que se requiere para esto se recaude por medio de impuestos sobre los bienes gravados del Distrito Escolar Libre de la Unión de Lindenhurst.

• Elección de un (1) fideicomisario para el Comité de Fideicomisarios de la biblioteca Lindenhurst Memorial Library con el fin de cubrir el cargo durante cinco (5) años a partir del 1 de julio de 2026 hasta el 30 de junio de 2031.

TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que pueden obtenerse copias de un estado de los gastos estimados de la Biblioteca para el año fiscal 2026-2027, a partir del 13 de marzo de 2026, durante el horario habitual de atención administrativa de la Biblioteca y en línea en www.lindenhurstlibrary.org.

TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que la Biblioteca organizará una

reunión pública de carácter informativo con el fin de discutir el presupuesto propuesto para la Biblioteca para el año 2026-2027 que se llevará a cabo el 25 de marzo de 2026 a las 6:30 p.m., en la Biblioteca.

TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que los candidatos para el cargo de fideicomisario para el Comité de Fideicomisarios serán nominados por solicitud. Las solicitudes deben presentarse en la Oficina del Secretario de la Biblioteca de lunes a viernes de 9:00 a.m. a 5:00 p.m., hasta el día lunes 9 de marzo de 2026 a las 5:00 p.m. Cada solicitud debe estar firmada por al menos veinticinco (25) votantes calificados del Distrito y debe indicar la residencia de cada firmante y el nombre y la residencia del candidato.

TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que el Comité de Registro se reunirá en la Biblioteca el 25 de marzo de 2026, desde las 2:00 p.m. hasta las 6:00 p.m. con el propósito de registrar a los votantes calificados que deseen votar en la votación y elección anuales de la biblioteca. Toda persona tendrá derecho a que se incluya su nombre en dicho registro, siempre que en dicha reunión del Comité de Registro, demuestre a satisfacción del Comité de Registro que está o estará habilitada para votar. El registro se presentará ante el director de la Biblioteca y estará abierto para revisión todos los días (excepto sábados y domingos), de 9:00 a.m. a 4:00 p.m., a partir del 25 de marzo de 2026 hasta el 14 de abril de 2026. Los residentes que hayan votado en una asamblea anual o extraordinaria del UFSD de Lindenhurst o de la Biblioteca den-

tro de los cuatro (4) años anteriores al 14 de abril de 2026 o que se hayan registrado ante el Comité Electoral del Condado de Suffolk según las disposiciones del artículo 5 de la Ley Electoral, no tendrán que registrarse nuevamente.

TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que las solicitudes anticipadas para votar por correo o por ausencia pueden realizarse en la Biblioteca Lindenhurst Memorial Library durante el horario habitual de atención administrativa de lunes a viernes, de 9:00 a.m. a 5:00 p.m., a partir del jueves 26 de febrero de 2026. Dichas solicitudes deben recibirse en la Oficina del Secretario de la Biblioteca siete (7) días antes de la votación si la boleta se enviará por correo al votante o el día anterior a la votación si la boleta se entregará personalmente al votante. Una lista de todas las personas a las que se les hayan emitido boletas de voto en ausencia o por correo estará disponible en la Oficina del Secretario de la Biblioteca en cada uno de los cinco (5) días previos a la votación, excepto los sábados, domingos y días festivos. No se escrutará ninguna boleta de voto en ausencia o por correo, a menos que se haya recibido en la Oficina del Secretario de la Biblioteca antes de las 5:00 p.m. del día de la elección.

TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que un votante calificado cuya capacidad para presentarse personalmente en el lugar de votación esté sustancialmente impedida por razón de enfermedad permanente o discapacidad física y cuyo registro de inscripción haya sido marcado como “en situación de discapacidad permanente” por el Comité Electoral

tendrá derecho a recibir una boleta de voto en ausencia sin tener que hacer una solicitud por separado para dicha boleta de voto en ausencia.

TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que los votantes militares que son votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de la Unión de Lindenhurst podrán pedir una solicitud de boleta militar a la Oficina del Secretario de la biblioteca Lindenhurst Memorial Library por correo postal a Lindenhurst Memorial Library, One Lee Avenue, Lindenhurst, NY 11757, por correo electrónico a lkropp@ lindenhurstlibrary. org o por fax al 631957-7114. En dicha solicitud, los votantes militares podrán indicar si prefieren que se les envíe la solicitud por correo postal, fax o correo electrónico. La solicitud de boleta militar se deberá devolver por correo postal a la Oficina del Secretario de la Biblioteca y se recibirán no más tarde de las 5:00 p.m. del 27 de marzo de 2026. No se escrutará ninguna boleta militar, a menos que se reciba antes de las 5:00 p. m. del 14 de abril de 2026. Fechado: Lindenhurst, NY

POR ORDEN DEL COMITÉ DE FIDEICOMISARIOS 21 DE ENERO DE 2026 DE LA BIBLIOTECA LINDENHURST MEMORIAL LIBRARY

POR:GABRIELLE GIACOMAZZO, PRESIDENTA DEL COMITÉ 26-103. 2/26, 3/12, 26, 4/9

WEST BABYLON PUBLIC LIBRARY

211 Route 109 West Babylon, NY 11704 • (631) 669-5445 • Fax: (631) 669-6539 • www.

wbpl.us

Nancy Evans, Director LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF WEST BABYLON PUBLIC LIBRARY NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Special District Meeting of the qualified voters of West Babylon Union Free School District will be held on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, between the hours of 1:00 P.M. and 9:00 P.M. at the West Babylon Public Library, 211 Route 109, West Babylon, New York, the designated polling place, for the following purposes:

1. To consider and vote upon the Library Annual Budget and tax appropriation (“tax levy”) for the fiscal year 2026/2027, for the following proposition: That the Library Annual Budget as proposed by the Board of Trustees of the West Babylon Public Library for the fiscal year 2026/2027 be approved, with the requisite portion thereof to be raised by a tax appropriation (“tax levy”) in the amount of $4,154,630.

2. To elect one Library Trustee for a term of five years, commencing July 1, 2026. A petition shall be required to nominate such candidates to the office of Library Trustee. Each petition shall be directed to the West Babylon Public Library, shall be signed by at least twenty-five (25) qualified voters of the District, shall state the residence of each signer and shall state the name and residence of the candidate. In the event that any such nominee shall withdraw his/her candidacy prior to the

election, such person shall not be considered a candidate unless a new petition nominating such person in the same manner and with the same limitations applicable to other candidates is filed with the West Babylon Public Library. Each petition shall be filed between the hours of 10:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M., but not later than Monday, March 16, 2026, at 5 pm. Petition forms may be obtained from and signed petitions returned to, the office of the Director of the West Babylon Public Library. No person shall be nominated by petition for more than one separate office.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the Special District Election and Budget Vote shall be conducted by voting on the propositions by paper ballot on Tuesday, the 14th day of April 2026, between the hours of 1:00 P.M. and 9:00 P.M., at the West Babylon Public Library, 211 Route 109, West Babylon, New York, which has been designated as the polling place for the Special District Meeting.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that a public hearing for the purpose of discussion of the said expenditure of funds and the budget thereof will be held on Monday, March 30, 2026, at 6 P.M.

A register of the qualified voters of the School District for said Special District Meeting and Election, to be prepared for the Special District Meeting and Election to be held on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, shall include all persons who have previously registered for any annual or special meeting or election held or conducted at any time

Public Notices

within four years prior to the preparation of the register or who are registered to vote at any general election pursuant to Section 5-210 of the Election Law of the State of New York. Such register will be filed in the Office of the Director of the West Babylon Public Library immediately after completion and will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District at the Office of the Library Director from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. on each of the five (5) days prior to the meeting or election for which it was prepared, except Sunday or holidays. Only qualified voters who are duly registered will be permitted to vote. The Office of the Library Director is located at 211 Route 109, West Babylon, New York in said District.

FURTHER NOTICE IS GIVEN, that any qualified voters who wish to register to vote may visit the office of the School’s District Clerk, 10 Farmingdale Road, West Babylon, NY or any school building main office during their regular business hours to register. Those wishing to register to vote must be a United States Citizen, at least 18 years old, cannot be in prison or on parole for a felony conviction and cannot claim the right to vote elsewhere. In addition, those wishing to vote must be a resident of the District for at least 30 days prior to the vote.

FURTHER NOTICE IS GIVEN, that in accordance with Education Law Section 2018-a and Section 2018-f, application for absentee ballots or early mail voter ballots for the Special District Meeting and Election may be applied for at the office

of the Director of the West Babylon Public Library. Such application must be received no earlier than March 16, 2026, and at least seven (7) days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter or the day before the election if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter. The Board of Registration shall make a list of all persons to whom absentee voter ballots and early mail voter ballots have been issued and have it available during regular office hours commencing twentyone days preceding the Special District meeting and until the day of election. Such list will be posted at the polling place during the election. No absentee voter ballot or early mail voter ballot shall be canvassed unless it is received not later than 5:00 P.M. on the day of the Election.

FURTHER NOTICE

IS GIVEN, that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter of the School District by requesting and returning a registration application to the School’s District Clerk in person, or by email to bburrows@ wbschools.org or fax sent to (631)-3767008. The request for the registration application may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the registration application by either mail, fax or email. Military voter registration application forms must be received in the office of the School’s District Clerk, 10 Farmingdale Road, West Babylon, NY, no later than 5:00 p.m. on March 19, 2026.

FURTHER NOTICE IS GIVEN, that military voters who are qualified voters of the School District, may

request an application for a military ballot from the Library Director in person, or by email to nevans@ wbpl.us or fax sent to (631)-669-6539. In order for a military voter to be issued a military ballot, a valid military ballot application must be received in the office of the Library Director no later than 5:00 p.m., on March 19, 2026. Military ballot applications received in accordance with the foregoing will be processed in the same manner as a non-military ballot application under Section 2018-a of the Education Law. The application for military ballot may include the military voter’s preference for receipt of the military ballot by mail, fax, or email. A military voter’s original military ballot application and military ballot must be returned by mail or in person to the office of the Library Director at 211 Route 109, West Babylon, New York in said District.

AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that military ballots shall be canvassed if they are received by the Library Director before the close of polls on April 14, 2026 showing a cancellation mark of the United States Postal Service or a foreign country’s postal service, or showing a dated endorsement of receipt by another agency of the United States Government; or received not later than 5:00 p.m. on April 14, 2026 and signed and dated by the military voter and one witness thereto, with a date which is ascertained to be not later than the day before the election.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that a statement of estimated Library expenses (Budget) and

tax appropriation (“tax levy”) for the fiscal year 2026/2027 will be available at the West Babylon Public Library, 211 Route 109, West Babylon, New York, daily, except Sundays and holidays, between 10:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M., during each of the fourteen (14) days preceding the Special District Meeting.

Dated: January 26, 2026 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES, WEST BABYLON PUBLIC LIBRARY, RACHEL SCELFO, PRESIDENT 26-104. 2/26, 3/5, 12, 19

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

BETHPAGE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, -againstCHRISTOPHER C. BRIGHT, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on November 16, 2022, wherein BETHPAGE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION is the Plaintiff and CHRISTOPHER C. BRIGHT, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the BABYLON TOWN HALL, 200 EAST SUNRISE HIGHWAY, NORTH LINDENHURST, NY 11757, on March 27, 2026 at 3:00PM, premises known as 10 HAYES ROAD, AMITY HARBOR, NY 11701; and the following tax map identification: 0100182.00-01.00-125.000. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND WITH THE

BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 617138/2017. Robert P. Valletti, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/ CLERK DIRECTIVES.

26-107. 2/26, 3/5, 12, 19

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

Deutsche Bank National Trust Company as Trustee for the Holders of New Century Home Equity Loan Trust, Series 2005-A, Asset Backed Pass-Through Certificates, Plaintiff AGAINST Mark Guerreri; Denise Guerreri; et al., Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 25, 2020, and Amended November 27, 2023, and Amended October 2, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 April 1,2026, at 3:00PM, premises

known as 41 Lenox Street, Lindenhurst, NY 11757. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in Lindenhurst, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk, State of NY, District 0103 Section 002.00 Block 03.00 Lot 086.002. Approximate amount of judgment $374,847.57 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 610008/2017. Scott Lockwood, Esq., Referee

LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff

175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624

(877) 430-4792

Dated: January 28, 2026

For sale information, please visit www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832

26-106. 2/26, 3/5, 12, 19

BIBLIOTECA PÚBLICA DE WEST BABYLON

211 Route 109 West Babylon, NY 11704 • (631) 669-5445 • Fax: (631) 669-6539 • www. wbpl.us

Nancy Evans, directora AVISO LEGAL

AVISO DE ASAMBLEA EXTRAORDINARIA DE LA BIBLIOTECA PÚBLICA DE WEST BABYLON POR LA

PRESENTE SE NOTIFICA que se llevará a cabo una Asamblea de distrito extraordinaria de los votantes calificados del Distrito escolar de West Babylon Union Free el martes, 14 de abril de 2026, entre la 1:00 p. m. y las 9:00 p. m. en la Biblioteca Pública de West Babylon, ubicada en 211 Route 109, West Babylon, Nueva York (el centro electoral designado) para los siguientes fines:

1. Para considerar y votar sobre el presupuesto anual de la biblioteca y la asignación tributaria (“gravamen fiscal”) para el ejercicio fiscal 2026/2027, para la siguiente propuesta: Que el presupuesto anual de la biblioteca según lo propuesto por el Consejo de Administración de la Biblioteca Pública de West Babylon para el ejercicio fiscal de 2026/2027 sea aprobado, y la porción requerida de dicho presupuesto que se debe recaudar a través de una asignación tributaria (“gravamen fiscal”) sea la suma de $4,154,630.

2. Para elegir un Administrador de la biblioteca por un plazo de cinco años, a partir del 1.º de julio 2026. Se requerirá una petición para nominar a dichos candidatos al cargo de Administrador de la biblioteca. Cada petición estará dirigida a la Biblioteca Pública de West Babylon, será firmada por al menos vein -

ticinco (25) votantes calificados del Distrito, indicará la residencia de cada firmante y el nombre y residencia del candidato. En caso de que cualquiera de estos candidatos retirase su candidatura antes de las elecciones, dicha persona no será considerada como candidato, a menos que se presente ante la Biblioteca Pública de West Babylon una nueva petición en la que se nomine a dicha persona de la misma forma y con las mismas limitaciones aplicables a otros candidatos. Cada petición deberá presentarse entre las 10:00 a. m. y las 4:00 p. m., pero a más tardar el lunes, 16 de marzo de 2026 a las 5:00 p. m. Los formularios de petición se pueden obtener en la oficina de la Directora de la Biblioteca Pública de West Babylon y las peticiones firmadas deberán ser enviadas a dicha oficina. Ninguna persona será nominada mediante petición para más de un cargo diferente.

TAMBIÉN

SE NOTIFICA que las Elecciones de distrito extraordinarias y el Voto del presupuesto se llevarán a cabo mediante votación de propuestas a través de boletas el martes, 14 de abril de 2026, entre la 1:00 p. m. y las 9:00 p. m., en la Biblioteca Pública de West Babylon, ubicada en 211 Route 109, West Babylon, Nueva York, centro electoral designado para la Asamblea de distrito extraordinaria.

ASIMISMO,

SE NOTIFICA que se llevará a cabo una audiencia pública para debatir sobre el gasto de los fondos y su presupuesto el lunes, 30 de marzo de 2026 a las 6:00 p. m. El registro de votantes calificados del distrito escolar para dichas

Elecciones y Asamblea de distrito extraordinaria, que se preparará para las Elecciones y Asamblea de distrito extraordinaria que se llevarán a cabo el martes, 14 de abril de 2026, incluirá a todas las personas que se hayan registrado previamente para cualquier elección o asamblea ordinaria o extraordinaria llevada a cabo o realizada en cualquier momento durante los cuatro años previos a la preparación del registro o que estén registradas para votar en cualquier elección general conforme al artículo 5-210 de la Ley Electoral del Estado de Nueva York. Se presentará dicho registro ante la oficina de la Directora de la Biblioteca Pública de West Babylon inmediatamente después de su finalización y se abrirá para la inspección por parte de cualquier votante calificado del Distrito en la oficina de la Directora de la biblioteca de 10:00 a. m. a 4:00 p. m. todos los días durante los cinco (5) días previos a la asamblea o a las elecciones para las que se preparó, excepto los domingos o feriados. Solo podrán votar los votantes calificados que estén debidamente registrados. La oficina de la Directora de la biblioteca está ubicada en 211 Route 109, West Babylon, Nueva York, en dicho distrito.

TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que cualquier votante calificado que desee registrarse para votar puede concurrir a la oficina del Secretario del distrito escolar, ubicada en 10 Farmingdale Road, West Babylon, NY, o a la oficina principal de cualquier escuela durante su horario de atención habitual para registrarse. Aquellas personas que deseen

Public Notices

registrarse para votar deben ser ciudadanos de los Estados Unidos, tener al menos 18 años, no pueden estar en prisión o en libertad condicional por la condena de un delito grave y no pueden reivindicar el derecho de voto en otro lugar. Además, aquellas personas que deseen votar deben ser residentes del Distrito durante al menos 30 días antes de emitir su voto.

ADEMÁS, SE NOTIFICA que, de acuerdo con la sección 2018-a y 2018f de la Ley de Educación, la solicitud de votos en ausencia o las boletas para votos anticipados por correo para las Elecciones y Asamblea de distrito extraordinarias se puede pedir en la oficina de la Directora de la Biblioteca Pública de West Babylon. Dicha solicitud debe ser recibida no antes del 16 de marzo de 2026 y al menos siete (7) días antes de las elecciones si se debe enviar la boleta por correo postal al votante o el día antes de las elecciones si se debe enviar la boleta personalmente al votante. La Junta de Inscripción hará un listado de todas las personas a las que se les ha enviado boletas para votos en ausencia y boletas para votos anticipados por correo y estará disponible durante el horario de atención habitual a partir de los veintiún días previos a la Asamblea de distrito extraordinaria y hasta el día de las elecciones. Dicho listado será publicado en el centro electoral durante las elecciones. No se computará ninguna boleta de votante en ausencia o boleta para votos anticipados por correo a menos que se reciba a más tardar a las 5:00 p. m. del día de las Elecciones.

TAMBIÉN SE NOTIFICA que los votantes

militares que no estén actualmente registrados pueden solicitar registrarse como votantes calificados del distrito escolar si solicitan y envían una solicitud de inscripción al Secretario del distrito escolar en persona, a través de correo electrónico a bburrows@ wbschools.org o fax al (631) 376-7008. El pedido para la solicitud de inscripción puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar para recibir la solicitud de inscripción a través de correo postal, fax o correo electrónico. Los formularios de solicitud de inscripción de los votantes militares deben recibirse en la oficina del Secretario del distrito escolar, ubicada en 10 Farmingdale Road, West Babylon, NY, a más tardar el 19 de marzo de 2026 a las 5:00 p. m.

ASIMISMO, SE NOTIFICA que los votantes militares, que son votantes calificados del distrito escolar, pueden pedir una solicitud de boleta militar a la Directora de la biblioteca en persona, a través de correo electrónico a nevans@ wbpl.us o fax al (631) 669-6539. Para que un votante militar reciba una boleta militar, debe enviarse una solicitud de boleta militar válida a la oficina de la Directora de la biblioteca a más tardar el 19 de marzo de 2026 a las 5:00 p. m. Las solicitudes de boleta militar recibidas de conformidad con lo anterior se procesarán de la misma forma que una solicitud de boleta no militar conforme a la sección 2018-a de la Ley de Educación. La solicitud de boleta militar puede incluir la preferencia del votante militar para recibir la boleta militar a través de correo postal, fax o correo electrónico. Una solicitud de bo-

leta militar original y una boleta militar del votante militar deben enviarse por correo postal o entregarse en persona en la oficina de la Directora de la biblioteca, ubicada en 211 Route 109, West Babylon, Nueva York, en dicho Distrito.

ASIMISMO, SE NOTIFICA POR LA PRESENTE que las boletas militares se computarán si la Directora de la biblioteca las recibe antes del cierre de las elecciones el 14 de abril de 2026 y cuentan con un sello postal del Servicio Postal de los Estados Unidos o de un servicio postal de un país extranjero, o tienen un acuse de recibo con fecha de otra agencia del Gobierno de los Estados Unidos; o las recibe a más tardar el 14 de abril de 2026 a las 5:00 p. m. y cuentan con fecha y firma del votante militar y de un testigo, y se verifica que dicha fecha es anterior al día de las elecciones.

ADEMÁS SE NOTIFICA que una declaración de gastos estimados de la biblioteca (presupuesto) y asignación tributaria (“gravamen fiscal”) para el ejercicio fiscal 2026/2027 estará disponible en la Biblioteca Pública de West Babylon, ubicada en 211 Route 109, West Babylon, Nueva York, todos los días, excepto los domingos y feriados, entre las 10:00 a. m. y las 4:00 p. m., durante los catorce (14) días previos a la Asamblea de distrito extraordinaria.

Fecha: 26 de enero de 2026

POR ORDEN DEL CONSEJO DE ADMINISTRACIÓN, BIBLIOTECA PÚBLICA DE WEST BABYLON, RACHEL SCELFO, PRESIDENTA 26-105. 2/26, 3/5, 12, 19

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

HSBC BANK USA, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF RENAISSANCE HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST 2006-1, -againstSTEVEN FONTANEZ, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on July 27, 2023, wherein HSBC BANK USA, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF RENAISSANCE HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST 2006-1 is the Plaintiff and STEVEN FONTANEZ, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the BABYLON TOWN HALL, 200 EAST SUNRISE HIGHWAY, NORTH LINDENHURST, NY 11757, on March 31, 2026 at 1:30PM, premises known as 137 EAST RIVIERA DRIVE, LINDENHURST, NY 11757; and the following tax map identification: 0100-190.00-04.00-122.000 & 124.000. AS TO LOT 122.000

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE COPIAGUE IN THE TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK

AS TO LOT 124.000

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING COPIAGUE, TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 618108/2019. Robert Macedonio, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/ CLERK DIRECTIVES.

26-112 2/26, 3/5, 12, 19

Budget Resolution

At a general meeting of the Board of Trustees of the North Babylon Public Library, Town of Babylon, Suffolk County, New York, held at the North Babylon Public Library, 815 Deer Park Avenue, North Babylon, New York, on the 20‘^ day of January, 2026, at 6:00 o’clock PM, prevailing time, the following was recorded: The meeting was called to order. The following were present:

Laurie Atlas Theresa DeBlasi Tory T. Hare

Ira Hester Patricia Ziegler

The following was absent: None.

The following resolution was offered by Mr. Hester, and seconded by Ms. Atlas, to wit:

WHEREAS, it is the desire of the Trustees of the North Babylon Public Library to hold a Special District Meeting of the North Babylon School District for the purpose of (a) voting upon the Library budget and (b) electing one (1) trustee to the Board of Trustees of the North Babylon Public Library, RESOLVED, that a Special District Meeting of the qualified voters of the North Babylon Union Free School District shall be held at the North Babylon Public Library, 815 Deer Park Avenue, North Babylon, New York, on the 14**^ day of April 2026 at 12:00 o’clock Noon, through 8:00 PM, prevailing time, for the purpose of voting by voting machines or by paper ballot If voting machines are not available, upon the (a) 2026-2027 fiscal year budget of the North Babylon Public Library and (b) the election of one (1) trustee to the Library Board of Trustees. The candidate with the most votes will serve a five-

year term beginning July 1, 2026 and ending on June 30, 2031.

FURTHER RESOLVED, that in lieu of requiring the Board of Registration of said School District to meet prior to such Special District Meeting solely for the purpose of registering voters, the registration shall be conducted by the School District Clerk at such Clerk’s office during regular business hours on any business day up to and including April 14, 2026.

FURTHER RESOLVED That Notice of said Special District meeting shall be published in the Library’s two newspapers of record four times in the seven (7) weeks prior to the vote, with the first such publication being at least 45 days prior to the vote, in substantially the following form:

Public Notice of Special District Meeting Of the North Babylon Public Library Suffolk County, New York Budget Vote and Trustee Election Tuesday, April 14, 2026

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN to the qualified voters of the North Babylon Union Free School District that a Special District Meeting will be held in the North Babylon Public Library, 815 Deer Park Avenue, North Babylon, New York 11703 on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 from 12:00 Noon through 8:00 PM, prevailing time, for the purpose of voting upon the following items:

• To elect one (1) trustee to the North Babylon Public Library Board. The candidate with the most votes will serve a five-year term beginning July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2031. The incumbent position is currently held

by Theresa DeBlasi.

• To adopt the Annual Library District Budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the Library District.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the petitions nominating candidates for the Office of Trustee of the North Babylon Public Library must be filed with the Office of the District Clerk of the North Babylon Public Library, 815 Deer Park Avenue, North Babylon, New York 11703, between the hours of 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM, prevailing time, not later than 5:00 PM, prevailing time, on Monday March 16, 2026. Each candidate must be a qualified voter and must reside in the area served by the North Babylon Public Library. The Petitions shall be directed to the District Clerk, shall be signed by at least twenty five (25) qualified voters of the School District or two percent (2%) of the voters who voted in the previous election, whichever is greater, shall state the residence of each signer and shall state the name and residence of the candidate being nominated for the Office of Trustee of the North Babylon Public Library. Candidates must sign an Affirmation of Compliance of the Conflict of Interest policy.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that the Board of Trustees of the North Babylon Public Library will hold a Special Budget Hearing on March 17, 2026 at the North Babylon Public Library, 815 Deer Park Avenue, North Babylon, New York at 6:00 PM, prevailing time. Residents of the North Babylon

Public Notices

Public Library District are invited to attend.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that in accordance with NY Education Law Section 1716(b), the proposed budget will be available 7 days prior to the Special Budget Hearing on March 17, 2026. Copies of the annual estimated expenditures of the North Babylon Public Library to be voted upon shall be available at the North Babylon Public Library and at each schoolhouse in the district between the hours of 9:00 o’clock AM and 5:00 o’clock PM, prevailing time, commencing on March 7,2026 and each weekday thereafter through April 14, 2026.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that pursuant to Section 2014 of the Education Law, personal registration of voters is required and no person shall be entitled to vote at said meeting and election whose name does not already appear on the register of the said School District, or who does not register as hereinafter provided or who is not registered to vote at any general election pursuant to Section 5-210 of the Election law of the State of New York. The register so prepared includes all persons who have presented themselves personally for registration in accordance herewith, and all persons who shall have been registered at any Annual Meeting or Election held or conducted at any time within four (4) years prior to the preparation of the register.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that in lieu of the Board of Registration meeting prior to such Special District Meeting solely for the purpose of

registering voters, the registration of voters, the registration of voters shall be conducted by the School District Clerk (“walk- in registration”) at such District Clerk’s office located at 5 Jardine Place, North Babylon, New York, from 9:00 o’clock AM to 3:00 o’clock PM prevailing time, on any business day up to and including April 14, 2026, and any person shall be entitled to have his or her name placed upon such register provided that he or she is known and can prove to the satisfaction of such School District Clerk to be entitled to vote at said Special District Meeting. The register so prepared by said School District Clerk will be open for inspection by any qualified voter of the District at the office of the School District Clerk on each of the five days prior to the date set for such Special District Meeting between the hours of 9:00 o’clock AM and 3:00 o’clock PM, prevailing time, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that pursuant to the provisions of Section 2018-a of the Education Law, early mail or absentee ballots for the election of a Library Trustee and voting on the budget may be applied for at the Office of the North Babylon Public Library during regular business hours. Such applications must be received by the Office of the North Babylon Public Library at least seven (7) days prior to the vote if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter or by 5:00 PM, prevailing time, or the day prior to the vote if the ballot is to be personally delivered to the voter. No early mail or absentee voter’s ballot shall be canvassed, unless it shall have been

received in the Office of the District Clerk no later than 5:00 PM, prevailing time, on the day of the election. A list to whom early mail or absentee ballots shall have been issued will be available in the Office of the District Clerk on each of the five (5) days prior to the date of the vote, except Saturdays, Sundays and holidays.

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

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

of the District Clerk by no later than 5:00 p.m. on the day of the election.

Dated: January 20, 2026 North Babylon, New York

By Order of the Board of Trustees of the North Babylon Public Library, North Babylon School District, Town of Babylon, Suffolk County, New York

The question of the adoption of the foregoing resolution was

duly put to a vote on roll call which resulted as follows:

Laurie Atlas

Voting Yes

Theresa DeBlasi

Voting Yes

Tory T. Hare

Voting Yes

Ira Hester

Voting Yes

Patricia Ziegler

Voting Yes

The resolution was thereupon declared duly adopted. 26-110. 2/26, 3/12, 26, 4/9

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.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK

U.S. BANK, N.A., SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO LASALLE BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF BEAR STEARNS ASSET BACKED SECURITIES I TRUST 2007-HE2, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES SERIES 2007-HE2, -againstKIM DASH, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF SHIRLEY DASH, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Suffolk on December 2, 2024, wherein U.S. BANK, N.A., SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO LASALLE BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF BEAR STEARNS ASSET BACKED SECURITIES I TRUST 2007-HE2, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES SERIES 2007-HE2 is the Plaintiff and KIM DASH, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF SHIRLEY DASH, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the BABYLON TOWN HALL, 200 EAST SUNRISE HIGHWAY, NORTH LINDENHURST, NY 11757, on March 31, 2026 at 10:30AM, premises known as 47 MAPLE ROAD, AMITYVILLE, NY 11701; and the following tax map identification: 0100-124.00-01.00016.000.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING NORTH AMITYVILLE, TOWN OF BABYLON, COUNTY OF SUFFOLK AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 620150/2017. Annette Eaderesto, Esq.Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 26-111 2/26, 3/5, 12, 19

New study shows canine obesity can increase eye pressure

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

Pets, Pets, Pets...

JOANNE ANDERSON

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

THE WEIGHT-EYE

CONNECTION

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

in eye health based on weight:

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

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

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

WHY DOES THIS HAPPEN?

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

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

“Higher body weight in normal dogs is significantly associated with higher intraocular pressure,” says lead researcher Dr. Oren Pe’er. “Obesity might be a modifiable risk factor in dogs predisposed

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

The following are a list of public meetings and special events for the coming week: Please note: All meetings are subject to change without notice.

TUESDAY, MARCH 3

•Village of Babylon Board of Trustees work session: 6 p.m.; Village Hall, upstairs conference room, 153 W. Main St., Babylon. For additional information, call 631-669-1500; or email: info@villageofbabylonny.gov; or visit the web site @https://www.villageofbabylonny.gov.

•Lindenhurst Village Board of Trustees meeting: 6 p.m. work session / 7:30 p.m. public meeting, Lindenhurst Village Hall, 430 S. Wellwood Ave., Lindenhurst. For updated meeting info., call 631-957-7500; or visit their web site @ https://villageoflindenhurstny.gov.

•North Babylon School Board of Edu -

cation regular board meeting: 7 p.m., at North Babylon High School, 1 Phelps Lane, N. Babylon. For meeting information, call 631-321-3226; or visit their web site @ https://www.northbabylonschools.net.

WEDNESDAY, MATCH 4

•Lindenhurst School Board of Education meeting: 8 p.m., at the McKenna Administration Bldg., 350 Daniel St., Lindenhurst. For info., call 631- 8673001.

THURSDAY, MARCH 5

•Village of Babylon Architectural Review Board: 8 p.m. @ Village Hall, 153 W. Main St., Babylon. For additional meeting information, call 631-669-1500; or email info@villageofbabylonny.gov, or visit the web site @https://www.villageofbabylonny.gov.

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: Beacon 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.

Boston Terriers are one of the breeds prone to glaucoma.

to glaucoma.”

WHAT CAN OWNERS DO?

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

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

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

Two spayed females- Rem #6-44, a six-month old tabby, and Moo #643, an eight-month cow pattern, are available for adoption at Babylon Shelter, 80 New Highway, N. Amityville 11701. Cats are vaccinated, FeLV/FIV tested, and microchipped.

Babylon Animal Shelter Poster Cats for Adoption:

REM #6-44

6-month old female tabby

8-month old female cow pattern

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

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EDITOR/REPORTER

Part Time & Full Time. The award-winning Herald Community Newspapers group, covering Nassau County's North and South Shores with hard-hitting news stories and gracefully written features, seeks a motivated, energetic and creative editor/reporter to join our dynamic (and awesome) team! This education and general assignment reporting position offers a unique experience to learn from some of the best in the business. Historically, reporters who have launched their careers with us have gone on to The New York Times, Newsweek, Newsday, the New York Daily News, New York Post, CNN, BBC, NBC News and The Daily Mail, among many others. We look for excellent writers who are eager to learn, enhance their skills, and become well-established and respected journalists in our industry. Salary range is from $20K to $45K To apply: Send a brief summary in the form of a cover letter describing your career goals and what strengths you can bring to our newsroom, along with a resume and three writing samples to jbessen@liherald.com

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

MULTI MEDIA ACCOUNT DEVELOPMENT

Inside Sales

Looking for an aggressive self starter who is great at making and maintaining relationships and loves to help businesses grow by marketing them on many different advertising platforms. You will source new sales opportunities through inbound lead follow-up and outbound cold calls. Must have the ability to understand customer needs and requirements and turn them in to positive advertising solutions. We are looking for a talented and competitive Inside Sales Representative that thrives in a quick sales cycle environment. Compensation ranges from $35,360 + commissions and bonuses to over $100,000 including commission and bonuses. We also offer health benefits, 401K and paid time off. Please send cover letter and resume with salary requirements to ereynolds@liherald.com Call 516-569-4000 X286

OUTSIDE SALES

Richner Communications, One of the Fastest Growing Media, Event and Communications Companies on Long Island is Seeking a Sales/Marketing Candidate to Sell our Print Media Products and our Digital, Events, Sponsorships. Earning potential ranges from $35,360 plus commission and bonuses to over $100,000 including commissions and bonuses. Compensation is based on Full Time hours

Eligible for Health Benefits, 401k and Paid Time Off. Please Send Cover Letter and Resume with Salary Requirements to rglickman@liherald.com or Call 516-569-4000 X250

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

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What makes a basement a basement?‘finished’

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

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

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

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

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

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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OpiniOns Stephen Miller’s politics of sabotage

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The challenge of celebrating Black History Month

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

opinions Another baseball season full of hope

The arrival of spring training, and the anticipation of another baseball season, brings back great memories. My earliest baseball memories date back to the early 1950s and the Brooklyn Dodgers, the famed “Boys of Summer,” in what is now regarded as the sport’s Golden Age. Baseball was the unquestioned national pastime, and New York’s Yankees, Dodgers and Giants were the dominant teams. From 1947 to 1956, the Yankees won eight league pennants, the Dodgers six and the Giants two.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Play ball!

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

Ed Ra’s new post is good for Long Island

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

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

I had the good fortune to chair that

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Long Island students need news literacy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Long Island school districts should take note.

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

where opportunities vary widely by district.

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

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

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

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

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

Building trust in water service through transparency

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We don’t shy away from this data; we

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

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

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

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

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

Jeff Szabo is chief executive officer of the Suffolk County Water Authority.

Your opinion Matters

Your opinion Matters

Matters

The strength of our community comes from open dialogue. We invite residents to submit letters to the editor on issues affecting our neighborhoods, schools, businesses and local government.

The strength of our community comes from open dialogue. We invite residents to submit letters to the editor on issues affecting our neighborhoods, schools, businesses and local government.

The strength of our community comes from open dialogue. We invite residents to submit letters to the editor on issues affecting our neighborhoods, schools, businesses and local government.

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

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

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

Be heard. Be part of the conversation.

Be heard. Be part of the conversation.

Be heard. Be part of the conversation.