Also serving Amityville, North Amityville, Amity Harbor, Copiague, and East Massapequa
Dan Kiernan advances in “The Voice”
Page 10
Kevin Catalina sworn in as SCPD Commissioner
Page 2
Rich Schaffer addresses crowd of supporters at his
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com
Several hundred supporters attended the kickoff for the Schaffer Team’s reelection campaign on Sat. Feb. 8.
Babylon Town Supervisor Rich Schaffer is running for reelection in November, joined on the ballot by Councilmen Anthony Manetta and Tony Martinez and Town Clerk Gerry Compitello.
Fireman’s Pavilion, 555 Heling Blvd., Lindenhurst, the same location where Schaffer
announced his first run for public office 38 years ago.
Throughout the lively event, supporters were asked, “Are you on the team?” They enthusiastically responded, many raising their arms, shouting, “I’m on the team.” The party’s slogan, “Safe, Strong, Resilient Babylon,” also echoed through the crowd.
Rev. Keith Hayward, senior pastor of Bethel AME Church in Copiague, delivered the invocation, asking that Schaffer, his team, and their supporters be granted “wis-
The Village of Amityville has named longtime resident and retired educator Dorothy “Dottie” Garvin as the recipient of this year’s Distinguished Resident award. The award honors individuals for their exceptional community service.
Garvin will be recognized at the annual Mayor’s Spring Social on Sunday, March 2, which will be
held at the Unqua Corinthian Yacht Club
Neighbor Patty Doht, who, along with her husband, Rob, nominated Garvin for the award, described her as “not just a friend, but part of the family,” always ready to engage and encourage their children.
Their daughter Caitlin remembered how Garvin
Leg. Richberg named S.C. Minority Leader
Page 9
By CAROLYN JAMES cjames@liherald.com
A new bill introduced by Assemblyman Michael Durso and Senator Alexis Weik would require New York schools to include an EKG as part of regular sports physicals.
An EKG is a non-invasive procedure that uses ultrasound to assess the heart’s structure and function. If abnormalities are detected, doctors typically recommend a more invasive test, an electrocardiogram.
The bill, known as Connor’s Law, is named in memory of Connor Kasin, a 17-year-old athlete from the Massapequa School District who died during a charity hockey game in Bethpage. Connor collapsed on the ice during an intermission at the Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center. Bystanders performed CPR until paramedics arrived and transported him to a hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
Connor, a senior, was an avid hockey player. At the time of his death, he was participating in a memorial game for Sabrina Navaretta, a 19-year-old Syosset graduate who died in a car crash in 2023.
“It turned out that Connor had a heart irregularity that might have been detected by an EKG,” Durso said. “Adding an EKG to a student’s physi -
cal—especially for studentathletes—could uncover these issues sooner and possibly save lives.”
Durso noted that most of the costs for these procedures are covered by insurance. He also said the bill would increase awareness and evaluation of student health, particularly for athletes.
He added that Assembly Bill A2718 has been well received in Albany and has several cosponsors in both the Senate and Assembly.
Kevin Catalina was sworn in as the new commissioner of the Suffolk County Police Department after the Suffolk County Legislature approved his appointment recently.
Catalina previously served as the department’s deputy commissioner. Before that, he was undersheriff for the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office for more than five years.
“Today is a monumental day in Suffolk County as we are proud to formally introduce Kevin Catalina as our police commissioner,” said County Executive Ed Romaine. “Commissioner Catalina is a man of honor and integrity and will be a tremendous leader for the men and women of the Suffolk County Police Department, while also serving as a steward for our communities.”
“I am grateful for the opportunity to become commissioner of the Suffolk County Police Department, the best police department in the country,” Catalina said. “This is a dream come true. I’m excited to use my more than 30 years of law enforcement experience and work with a knowledgeable and professional executive team to implement strategies that continue to reduce crime and build
relationships with our residents through community policing.”
“Kevin Catalina has shown throughout his distinguished career why he’s known as ‘a cop’s cop,’” said the Legislature’s Presiding Officer Kevin McCaffrey. “I fully expect his leadership, innovation, and achievements over three decades to prove invaluable in making Suffolk County a safer place. I’m proud to support him as commissioner.”
Catalina began his career with the NYPD in 1992 as a police officer in the 103rd Precinct. He quickly advanced through the ranks, spending 20 years in supervisory roles, including three terms as commanding officer of PSA 6, the 32nd Precinct in Central Harlem, and the 44th Precinct in the Bronx.
Catalina was promoted to deputy chief and became the commanding officer of the Gang Division. He also served as the executive officer and operations commander of Patrol Borough Manhattan North.
In August 2017, Catalina was named commanding officer of the Intelligence Bureau’s Operational and Analytical Section as deputy chief before retiring from the NYPD after 27 years of service.
By CHRISTIE LEIGH BABIRAD cbabirad@liherald.com
Camryn Quinlan is only 18 but music enthusiasts are already taking notice of her talent and she has developed a following with her powerful vocals and personal lyrics.
On Sunday, Feb. 9, she performed her first solo show at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, having been invited back after a successful show with the Kerry Kearny Band for LIMEHOF’s 20th anniversary last year.
“I’m very excited to see her perform because she was here with the Kerry Kearney band and I was the one who asked her at the time if she would like to do her own gig here,” said General Manager Barry Fisch, adding “This one is going places, she’s special.”
Camryn, of Sayville, was excited to perform because, she said, she has been singing since she first talked. She is inspired by a wide range of artists including Kacey Musgraves, Taylor Swift and Chappell Roan and takes great pride in the fact that she is a writer, while also enjoying the collaborative process, gravitating toward the genres of Americana and Acoustic Pop.
Asked what inspires her writing, she points to everything that surrounds her. “I’m inspired by things that happen to me, movies or shows that I’m watching or what’s going on around me,” she said. In addition to writing and singing, she also plays the guitar and piano and is set to release her first EP in the next couple of months. Particularly excited for the LIMEHOF show, she explained that it would be her band’s first gig as they have only been playing together for a few weeks. “I’m excited to be playing with my new band for the first time, that’s really cool, and performing all of my own originals,” she said.
The audience collectively was sur-
prised that the new band had only been playing together for a few weeks because the chemistry and performance level was high. With Camryn as lead singer, the band consisted of Matt Sullivan on the drums, Charlie Duplessis on the guitar and Parker Fohner on the bass.
“These four kids only got together five weeks ago and it’s exciting because they sound great,” said Jim McLoughlin, who was there with his wife, Kerri, to support their son Parker. “It’s the perfect recipe and they are all stepping up to the next stage in their career.”
Camryn’s mom was also in attendance and filled with pride. “This is a lifelong dream come true for her and I’m so excited to hear her play her original songs,” said Amy Quinlan.
Attendee Joe Lamberti came out for the show after first seeing Camryn perform last year. “She’s quite a talented young lady. That was a big stage for her and she did great, said Lamberti.
Camryn and her band performed her originals, including “ex box,” which she explained is a song about her 8th grade boyfriend and the box she kept of items from the relationship, and “Hour Glass,” a song about going into a relationship and knowing how it’s going to end. She joked, “So you see, I really like to write happy songs and lighten the mood.”
However, she also sang some upbeat songs, including “Light of Day,” that reflected songs by Colbie Caillat, and “Hummingbird.”
Camryn’s songs are available across streaming platforms. including YouTube, Apple Music and Spotify, and you can also follow her on Instagram at Camryn Quinlan Official.
“It’s exciting to foster young talent and maybe one day she will be one of our Hall of Famers,” said LIMEHOF Chairman Ernie Canadeo.
To learn about upcoming shows at LIMEHOF, visit limusichalloffame.org. or call (631) 689-5888.
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.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20
•Amityville Rotary Club Meeting: 8 a.m., Brownstones Coffee, 55 Merrick Road, Amityville. For more information, call President Michele Camilleri at (631) 598-1700 or email amityvillerotaryclub@gmail.com
•Church Attic Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. For information, call (631)-264-0152 or email amitychurch1792@gmail.com
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21
•Simpson United Methodist Church Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 30 Locust Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631)-789-2569
•St. Mary’s Thrift Shop: 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., 175 Broadway, Amityville, enter from rear parking lot. Lots of col -
lectibles, glassware, clothing and other gently used items. For information, call (631)-464-4899.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22
•St. Mary’s Thrift Shop: 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., 175 Broadway, Amityville, enter from rear parking lot. Lots of collectibles, glassware, clothing and other gently used items. For information, call (631)-464-4899.
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24
•Town of Babylon Planning Board Meeting: 7 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway., Lindenhurst. For more information, call (631) 957-4434.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25
•Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m., Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9592, 55 Hickory Lane, Levittown. Free weekly, in-person meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631)-
332-0552 or Jill at (516)-220-7808. All calls are confidential.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26
•Town of Babylon Town Board Meeting: 3 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. For more information, call (631) 957-3000.
•Town of Babylon Rental Board Meeting: 6 p.m., Town Board Room, Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst. For more information, call (631) 957-4434.
•Amityville SD BOE Combined Session: 7:30 p.m., Park Avenue Memorial Elementary School, 140 Park Ave., Amityville. For more information, call (631)-565-6000
• Emotional Health Recovery and Support Group: 7:30 to 9 p.m. Free
weekly, virtual meeting of Emotions Anonymous, a 12-step support group for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties. For more information, call Steve at (631)-332-0552 or Jill at (516)220-7808. All calls are confidential.
• The Long Island Dahlia Society: 9 a.m., Bayard Cutting Arboretum, 440 Montauk Highway., Great River. All are welcome. Come and learn how to care for your dahlias. Tubers will be available for sale starting in April. For more information call (631)-972-8829 (leave message) or visit longislanddahlia.org
•Church Attic Thrift Shop: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 25 Broadway, Amityville. For information, call (631)-264-0152 or email amitychurch1792@gmail.com
Last week during the 149 th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, Monty, a champion Giant Schnauzer, received the honor of Best in Show (BIS) out of an entry of over 2,500 dogs from 201 breeds. Why does the world watch Westminster? Look at this list:
Our Local Link: Westminster Kennel Club had a grand clubhouse and kennels right here in Babylon from 1880 to 1904. In fact, Sensation, the WKC trademark Pointer, was buried in front of that clubhouse by Southards Pond in 1887. I did not know this, nor did Babylon historians, until 2006, when I read a reference to Sensation’s grave in a Canadian dog publication. With the help of our local historians and others, I spent the next ten years piecing together clues to where the flagpole (Sensation’s grave marker) and the clubhouse once stood. My findings were chronicled in at least fifty “Pets” columns.
JOANNE ANDERSON
tough times. During the Depression, the number of entries stayed solid. Former President Hoover attended the 1943 WKC show during WWII. WKC honored Search and Rescue dogs working at Ground Zero in February 2002. From 2021-25, COVID moved the show to Lyndhurst mansion in Tarrytown and then the Billie Jean King National Tennis Stadium in Flushing.
World famous arena:
WKC has been held in the five incarnations of Madison Square Garden. No other sport can make that claim. In 1880, when Garden reconstruction was going on, a wall collapsed as Show Manager William Tileston and Chair Walter Webb walked by. Tileston and three women passersby were killed; Webb was injured. Both men were WKC charter members who had attended the grand opening of the clubhouse in Babylon months before.
Parade of champions:
“America’s Dog Show” since 1877: The first Westminster had over 1200 dogs entered, including a two-legged mixed breed named Nellie. The event lasted four days in May, rather than three days in February. Sensation was on special exhibition at that first show while local notable August Belmont Jr. showed six dogs, including Robin whose tombstone still stands near the cannons at Belmont Lake. Belmont pulled a shrewd one, entering Robin as both a Gordon and an English Setter. He could not do that now because of the rules of the American Kennel Club that he helped form.
Longevity:
It is the second longest continuously held sporting event in the US, one year behind the Kentucky Derby. The WKC dog show went on despite turmoil and
Certain years just the elite participate. When there is a shortage of space in the daytime, breed judging venue, only champion dogs can enter. With agility and obedience trials this year, over 2,500 dogs from all fifty states and other countries competed at WKC.
Benching:
Westminster is one of the only benched shows left, which means when not in the ring for breed judging, all dogs had to be on view in a specific area from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. to educate the public about purebred dogs. Only Best of Breed winners were invited to the Garden for Group judging and BIS.
“Academy Awards of Dogs”:
Westminster is the canine Super Bowl and Oscars combined. A week’s worth of festivities, including dog-des -
ignated benefits and awards banquets, lead up to the final showdown at Best in Show.
Chronicling our history and culture:
Prominent WKC participants fill history books. The Czar of Russia sent his Wolfhounds. Famous Americansamong them J.P. Morgan (Collies), Nelly Bly (Maltese), Lou Gehrig (German Shepherd), Patty Hearst (French Bulldogs), and General Custer (Staghounds)- entered their dogs. The WKC Dog Show has been televised since 1948 which pre-dates “I Love Lucy’.
Civic responsibility:
WKC has a long tradition of giving back. During the first 1877 show, one day’s proceeds went to Henry Bergh of the newly formed ASPCA. In 1918, profits were given to the Red Cross to
support war efforts. Now, WKC presents scholarships to outstanding veterinary students.
“Live from New York”: Other major dog shows broadcast taped TV highlights. But during Westminster, live TV covered every Best of Breed (BOB) winner, Group judging, and BIS. In 1990, there were 140 AKC recognized breeds; in 2012 there were 185; this year 201.
This is a ton of information to compile. In 2014, when I had the WKC Best of Breed cards ready for TV, I got stuck on the top floor of the New Yorker Hotel because of a broken elevator. I could see the Garden across the street but not get there. I felt as if I had the heart for a transplant that I would not be able to deliver on time.
The Suffolk County Veterans Emergency Assistance Commission is now accepting applications from veterans in need of home heating assistance. Consideration is given to all home heating options and minor home heating system repairs.
“With all the pressures facing our heroic veterans, staying warm at night should not be one of their concerns,” said Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine.
If you are interested in learning more and/or applying for the Veterans Emergency Home Heating Assistance Program, please contact the Suffolk County Veterans Service Agency at (631) 8538387 or email veteransinfo@suffolk-
countyny.gov
The application can be found at shorturl.at/N7MJM.
To meet the criteria, you must complete the application, DD Form 214 with Character of Discharge Honorable or General Under Honorable Conditions, household income (W-2, disability rating, social security etc.), Proof of heating expenses (oil, electricity, gas) or boiler/ plumbing estimate and a narrative letter describing your need for assistance. All the above information must be submitted with the application to Keith O’Reilly, VSO, Suffolk County Veterans Service Agency, 100 Veterans Memorial Highway, P.O. Box 6100, Hauppauge, NY 11788-0099.
dom and faith.”
“We all have to come together and make sure we are moving in the right direction,” said S.C. Leg. Jason Richberg. “Rich has always made sure that we give more opportunities to people of color, people of different cultures and faiths, women, and to give everyone a second chance—and in some cases, a third. He makes sure things get done. That is what a leader does.”
Frank Dolan, whose father was a town leader in the Democratic Party, praised Schaffer: “He is a good man and a good politician. We want someone who can be in the middle of the road.”
Tom Dolan, CEO of LDCII, added, “He pays attention to what is going on and responds. He takes care of the people of Babylon and his employees.”
Kevin Smith, Roger Smith, Owen Brooks and Mike O’Neill, and Babylon Village Mayor Mary Adams, along with Trustees Frank Seibert and Sean Goodwin.
Kevin Smith remarked about Schaffer, “He is a man who is kind and concerned and known for getting things done.”
A Babylon resident shared her support for the Schaffer Team:
“Rich is amazing; he is a man of his word. If anyone goes to him with an issue or problem, he makes sure it gets resolved,” said Nancy Jones. “If it’s not in his jurisdiction, he reaches out to the right person to make sure your concern is taken care of. He doesn’t say: It’s not my job.”
“I’ve worked both in private practice and the public sector, and he (Schaffer) is the best,” said a deputy town attorney. “He cares for the public and the employees, and that is rare.”
Representatives from the villages of Amityville and Babylon also attended the campaign kickoff, including Amityville Mayor Dennis Siry, Trustees
For his part, Schaffer emphasized his people-first approach to governance: “That’s the way we should govern,” he said. “Look around this room—you’ll see people from not only the Democratic, but Conservative, Republican, and Independent parties as well. That’s because here in the Town of Babylon, we talk to one another and work together for our constituents.”
The election is in Tues., Nov. 5.
By ROKSANA AMID ramid@liherald.com
Anna Sequoia had never had the flu before. At 79, the Glen Cove resident thought she knew what to expect when she developed a sore throat while on a Caribbean cruise last week. But by the time she got home, the illness had taken a frightening turn.
“By the third night, I could barely sleep because of the coughing,” Sequoia recounted. “The coughing was so horrible my chest really hurt.”
Sequoia, who has asthma, went to an emergency room after struggling to breathe. “I told them that I was short of breath,” she said. “I immediately told them that I had been out of the country. They always want to know that. And at that point, everybody put masks on.”
Doctors diagnosed her with the flu and prescribed multiple medications, including Tamiflu, prednisone and a nasal decongestant. They also told her to use a nebulizer every four to six hours to ease her breathing. Now recovering at home, she remains shaken by the experience.
“I was scared, actually,” she said. “It’s frightening to me that people are walking around now without masks.”
Flu cases in New York have surged to more than 53,000, with Long Island recording 11,862 cases in a single week — the highest in at least two seasons. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that flu-related doctor visits nationwide are at a 15-year high. The CDC estimates that, so far this season, 24 million Americans have had the flu, resulting in 310,000 hospitalizations and 13,000 deaths.
In New York, flu activity has reached its highest level in years. The number of flu-related doctor visits
climbed 7 percent in the first week of February, approaching levels last seen during the 2009-10 flu pandemic.
Dr. Bruce Farber, chief of epidemiology at Northwell Health, said this year’s flu is being driven by low vaccination rates and changes in the virus strains.
“Flu seasons vary year by year, depending upon minor drifts in the virus,” Farber said. “Secondly, the population is under-vaccinated. Flu vaccination rates are much lower than they have been in years previous
… And then, of course, the matchup of the flu vaccine to this year’s strains is also always a prediction, at best.”
In New York, flu vaccination rates among children ages 6 months to 17 have dropped from 60 percent in 2020 to 49 percent this season, according to the CDC. Public health officials stress that the vaccine reduces the severity of illness and the likelihood of hospitalization, even if it doesn’t prevent infection entirely.
Health officials expect flu cases to remain high for several more weeks. “Rates have been very high the first week of February. They’re just starting to level off and fall,” Farber said. “It usually remains at high levels of infection for about eight to 10 weeks, and then slowly declines.”
Officials track the flu’s spread through hospital admissions, flu test positivity rates and emergency room visits.
The Nassau County Department of Health stressed the importance of flu vaccinations in an email to the Herald, noting that it is not too late in the season to get protected. In addition to vaccination, health officials recommend frequent hand-washing, covering coughs and sneezes, and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces to reduce the spread of the virus. Those who are not feeling well should stay home from work, school and social gatherings until they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication.
Those who need help finding a vaccine can call the county health department, at (516) 227-9697.
With between 20,000 and 60,000 flu-related deaths expected annually, Farber stressed the seriousness of the illness, particularly for vulnerable populations. “People should realize that this disease is responsible for a lot of mortality every year,” he said. “It’s not a cold.”
After 40 years of serving as your trusted financial advisor, I am excited to share an important update about my practice. I have joined Lebenthal Financial Services, Inc., an independent broker-dealer based in Jericho, NY, to better serve my clients with expanded resources and greater flexibility.
My commitment remains the same, guided by these core principles:
Understanding your unique financial goals
Researching and recommending the best solutions
Providing ongoing guidance to help you achieve financial success
By joining Lebenthal, I now have:
Access to a wider range of financial products and services
Financial planning services at no additional cost
Greater flexibility to select the most suitable solutions for you
A broader array of investment options to diversify and strengthen your portfolio
I look forward to this next chapter and continuing to help you achieve your financial goals.
Contact Me: 516-606-5752 | Email Me: GSlavin@lebenthal.com
Learn More: lebenthalfinancial.com | lebenthal.com
The following students were recently recognized for academic achievements and graduation at their respective colleges:
•Andrew Dicianni of Copiague was recently named to the Dean’s List and President’s List at the University of Hartford.
•Edward Ryan of Amityville recent -
ly graduated from the University of Tampa with a Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship.
•The following students were recently named to the Dean’s List at SUNY Cortland: Jakub Dobrowolski-Kosior of Copiague, Exercise Science, and Lauren Parker of Amityville, Inclusive Education Childhood. Please
The United States Power Squadrons® is offering course dates and locations for upcoming safe boating courses as follows:
•Great South Bay, America’s Boating Course, West Islip Library, 3 Higbie La., West Islip, March 4, 6:30 p.m. The cost is $30. For more information contact Michael Boland at 631-290-8096, or email him at: bolandmichael123@gmail.com
• Captree Squadron, Babylon pool building, 151 Phelps La., North Babylon,
March 3 and 29, 9 a.m. The cost is $60. For more information or to sign up for the course contact Eugene Johnson at 631-921-3403, or email him at pwrbtr@ aol.com
To access the latest list of safe boating courses and seminars on Long Island, go to https://shorturl.at/Qp0Df.
For additional information about the United States Power Squadrons call 516-312-2167 or visit one of the web sites listed below.
would invite them to help plant flowers and greet them at the bus stop on the first day of school to make the start of the year even more special.
“The impact she has had on my life, my family’s life, and the lives of so many in the community makes her a strong candidate,” Caitlin said.
Garvin has deep roots in Amityville, having moved there from Brooklyn when she was 12. A graduate of Amityville High School, she earned a degree in History and English from Molloy University. Her career as an educator began as a summer counselor at Northeast School in the 1960s, and she went on to teach social studies for 36 years, including as department chair at Edmund W. Miles Middle School. After retiring, Garvin continued her passion for teaching as a student teacher supervisor at Molloy University for an additional 10 years.
Garvin was also the recipient of a surprise visit from NASA astronaut and Amityville native Kevin Kregel, who presented her with mementos from his travels in space. During a school assembly, Kregel had singled her out as his “favorite teacher,” a moment Garvin will always treasure.
In addition to her contributions to education, Garvin has been an active volunteer at St. Martin of Tours R.C. Church, where she teaches religious education, participates in the church’s bereavement ministry, and serves as a Eucharistic Minister, visiting homebound parishioners to share Communion and prayers.
Garvin is also a longtime member of the Amityville Woman’s Club and has helped with projects such as the Holiday Homes Tour. As a proud member of the Amityville Historical Society, she contributed memories of growing up in the village to a book on the area’s history.
The Spring Social will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. at the yacht club, 31 Unqua Place, Amityville. Tickets are $25 per person. For reservations, contact Kevin Smith at 516351-1270 or via email at AFD1131@verizon. net.
The West Islip High School Class of 1975 is holding a class reunion July 19, 2025 at Captain Bill’s restaurant in Bay Shore.
For details, visit/join the organization’s Facebook page: West Islip High School Class of 1975 Or call 516-456-3207 and leave a message.
S.C. Leg Jason A. Richberg was reappointed to serve as the S.C. Legislature’s minority leader by his colleagues in the Democratic Caucus for 2025.
“It is truly a privilege to represent the residents of the 15th Legislative District and I am incredibly honored and humbled to once again be selected by my peers to lead our caucus,” said Richberg. “I’d like to thank my fellow legislators for entrusting me with this incredibly important role. I will continue to do everything I can to live up to the title, find common ground across the aisle and work with our County Executive to keep the county moving in the right direction.”
Part of his legislative priorities for 2025 include a focus on:
Safety : Working with all government partners to ensure the air, water, roadways, waterways, parks and farmland are free of contaminations, and that the streets and communities are protected and safe from drugs and crime.
Responsibility: Ensuring government is accountable to the constituents, that tax dollars are spent in the most efficient and effective way possible, and that state and federal funds are leveraged to help local communities.
Accessibility: Ensuring the legislature is accessible to the public
and its services reflect the needs of the population. Residents have a right to be able to reach out to their government officials and get results, not red tape.
Richberg also announced that Legislator Rebecca Sanin of Commack will serve as Democratic Whip, where she will help advance the caucus’s legislative agenda and build consensus on key issues.
“I am proud of the progress we’ve made in my first year on the Legislature, and I look forward to working closely with our caucus to build a safer, stronger, and more affordable Suffolk County for all,” said Sanin. “This new role allows me to amplify the voices of our communities and to continue advocating for the policies that matter most to our residents.”
“Rebecca has demonstrated incredible dedication and vision since joining the Legislature, said Richberg. “Her ability to connect with residents, her thoughtful approach to policymaking, and her passion for public service make her the perfect choice for Democratic Whip. I am confident she will continue to make a significant impact in this role.”
Richberg was first elected to represent the 15th Legislative District in a special election held on March 10, 2020. The 15th Legislative District encompasses Amityville Village, North Amityville, Wyandanch, Wheatley
Heights, Melville, East Farmingdale and portions of Copiague, North Lindenhurst, North Babylon, and West Babylon.
A native Long Islander, he began his career in government in 2010, when he was named Chief of Staff to S.C. Leg. DuWayne Gregory. He has since served
as both Deputy Clerk and Clerk of the
Richberg graduated from North Babylon High School in 2000 and holds a baccalaureate degree in Political Science from Wilberforce University. He lives in West Babylon.
By SCOTT BRINTON
Special to the Herald
First in a series of stories on immigration through a partnership between Herald Community Newspapers and Hofstra University.
Sergio Jimenez, of Amityville, an activist with an immigrant rights coalition that includes the Workplace Project in Hempstead, was recently approached by an acquaintance with an unusual proposition: The man asked whether Jimenez would take over his car payments.
The Honduran man had had enough of the Trump administration’s treatment of the immigrant community, and planned to return to his home country. He needed someone to assume his car payments rather than abandon the vehicle.
“He’s going back to Honduras because he can’t stand all this suppression,” Jimenez said.
Jimenez spoke during a nearly twohour-long conversation on Feb. 5 that the Herald hosted at a restaurant down the street from Hempstead Town Hall, attended by 15 immigrants and advocates from the local community and beyond. They came to discuss President Trump’s immigration policy, with its increased focus on identifying and deporting undocumented immigrants.
To protect its owners’ privacy, the Herald is not naming the restaurant.
Trump, Jimenez said, is ignoring the potential economic impact of tens of thousands, perhaps millions, of undocumented and documented immigrants returning to their home countries, either because they are forced or choose to. If a growing number of immigrants leave, the economy will suffer, he said.
Immigrants comprise a third of Nassau County’s workforce and a third of its small-business owners, and New York’s immigrants, documented and undocumented, pay more than $3.1 billion annually in state and local taxes, according to the New York Immigration Coalition.
Nadia Marin-Molina, co-executive director of the National Day Laborer Organizing Network, which has an office at the Freeport Workers Justice Center, said she believes the Trump administration aims to “make people’s lives miserable and to scare people, to terrorize people into leaving themselves, because they can’t deport everybody that they say they’re going to deport.”
As of Feb. 3, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security reported nearly 8,800 arrests of immigrants from 121 countries, with almost 5,700 deportations and removals since Trump took office. As of 2022, an estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants lived in the U.S., 3 percent of the population, according to the American Immigration Council.
Many immigrants were already on edge and thinking of returning to their homelands before Trump’s increased enforcement, according to Deyanira Barrow, who immigrated to the U.S. 35
An increasing number of immigrants are considering returning to their home countries because of the Trump administration’s “suppression” of immigrant rights, according to Hempstead-area activists. Advocates and 15 immigrants gathered to talk with the Herald on Feb. 5.
years ago following the Nicaraguan civil war from 1978 to 1990.
Theft is often why “our people say, no, no, I’m going back to my country. They know some people spend a lot of money for nothing,” Barrow, a Workplace Project activist from Baldwin Harbor who owns a cleaning business, said. An attorney might charge $3,000 to $5,000 to process an immigration claim and provide no services, she added.
According to the National Immigration Law Center, on Jan. 20, his first day in office, Trump signed executive orders calling for, among other measures:
■ A recommitment to mass detention of undocumented immigrants.
■ Potential punishment of municipalities that act as “sanctuaries” for them.
■ A DHS review and audit of federal grants and contracts with non-governmental agencies that aid them.
■ Possible reinstatement of countrybased immigration bans.
■ An examination of Temporary Protected Status designations that allow immigrants fleeing violence and natural disaster to remain in the U.S.
■ Expansion of the expedited removal policy that allows the federal government to deport undocumented immigrants without their day in court.
■ Authorization for local municipalities to act as immigration enforcement agents.
This final point was most disconcerting for a number of the immigrants interviewed by the Herald. They wonder whether local governments, such as the villages of Freeport, Hempstead and
Westbury, and area school districts might cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
County Executive Bruce Blakeman, a Republican, signed an agreement with the Trump administration on Feb. 4 that deputized county police officers to carry out immigration enforcement in tandem with ICE.
Blakeman’s policy has received bipartisan support. Freshman U.S. Rep. Laura Gillen, a Democrat, issued a statement on Feb. 6, saying, “Violent criminals with no legal right to be here should be deported in accordance with the law. Nassau County detectives now being able to work directly with ICE agents on targeted enforcement against known noncitizen criminals will help keep Long Islanders safe.”
Whether local governments and school districts will cooperate with ICE is an open question. Last month, Hempstead Board of Education President Victor Pratt told Newsday, “We will continue to comply with federal mandates, and the law is the law, whether we agree with it or not.”
That prompted the immigrant rights organization LatinoJustice PRLDEF to respond. “Allowing ICE into our schools or working with this federal agency jeopardizes the safety, rights and wellbeing of the district’s student body,” Lourdes Rosado, the group’s president and general counsel, said.
Hempstead Schools Superintendent Susan Johnson posted a message on the district website last week to reassure concerned parents and students: “We understand that there are concerns circulating in our community regarding the presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. During these times, it is important to know that our schools are safe spaces where all children are valued, protected and supported.”
No village or school district could be reached by phone for comment at press time.
‘The struggle continues’
“We are in a dire situation, as I see it,” Jimenez said. “Part of it is the lack of cohesion in the community. There’s no one representing, working with us, except organizations” like the Workplace Project.
The immigrant community was very active politically during the 1980s, “but then somehow the community fell asleep, and we remain sleeping,” Emilio Alfaro Ruiz, national advertising director for La Tribuna Hispana, a Hempstead-based Spanish-language newspaper, said. “It’s a state of mind. We have to tell the people that the struggle continues.”
Elected leaders of both parties have disappointed the immigrant community, Ruiz said, adding, “We always hope the Democrats will do more.” In particular, he said, the community had hoped that President Barack Obama, with a Democratically controlled Congress from 2009 to 2011, would push through comprehensive immigration reform, but that never happened.
Many immigrant activists have grown tired of the fight, Ruiz said. As they see it, the “politicians don’t give a damn about us,” he said, “and I’m going to do my own business — self-care.”
Miguel Alas Sevillano, a community organizer with the Workplace Project and a Salvadoran immigrant, said the organization is holding a workshop series to help immigrants understand their rights under the law. “We prepare people in the community how to act in case ICE comes to our homes or our workplaces or any public area,” Sevillano said.
To learn more about the workshops, call (516) 565-5377.
Director Billy Bustamante, whose credits include Broadway and off-Broadway, brings his flair to the Madison Theatre’s latest production.
The stage is set for a
By Danielle Schwab
t’s “the party to end all parties” and everyone’s on the guest list.
You’re invited to travel back to the decadent world of 1920s Prohibition-era Manhattan when the roaring musical production of Andrew Lippa’s “The Wild Party,” arrives on the Molloy University campus shortly, March 7-9.
Audiences can expect a lively show filled with vibrant jazz and eclectic guests — also some uninvited “surprises” — that’s sure to keep the joint buzzing.
Observing the talented young performers involved with Molloy’s renowned CAP21 Musical Theatre Conservatory, guided by Director-Choreographer Billy Bustamante, you’ll surelly be thinking: ‘Let’s raise the roof, let’s make a scene!’
Set in the Roaring Twenties, it tells the tale of two vaudevillians, Queenie and Burrs, as they throw the party to end all parties. Jealousy and decadence abound in this spicy concoction whose tasty musical stew of jazz, blues, gospel, and Tin Pan Alley sounds remarkably contemporary.
Vaudeville dancer Queenie, (played by senior Jessica Olexy) and her intense partner Burrs (senior Cade Eller) host an evening of delight only to see it spiral into chaos with every twist and turn.
• Friday through Sunday, March 7-9; times vary
• Tickets start at $35; available at madisontheatreny.org or the box office at (516) 323-4444
• Molloy University campus, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre
Sondheim’s “Here We Are” (choreographer). Now Molloy’s theater students can benefit from his talents.
“I have history with this story,” Bustamente says. “I directed an off-Broadway production of the other version back in 2016, so this feels like a full circle moment, getting to explore this story again through different writers.”
There’s even a ‘show within a show’ musical number, “ A Wild, Wild Party,” a favorite of senior Angelo Domingo, who appears as a party guest, the rambunctious boxer Eddie.
Shiver me timbers! Book your passage to the Madison Theatre when Molloy University’s renowned CAP21 Musical Theatre Conservatory, stages the classic musical, accompanied by the South Shore Symphony, Sail away to the whimsical world of Gilbert & Sullivan’s beloved operetta, where a merry band of parading pirates — led by their Pirate King — clash swords and nightsticks with the bumbling Bobbies on the shores of Cornwall. The story revolves around Frederic, who was apprenticed by mistake to a band of tenderhearted pirates. He meets the daughters of Major-General Stanley, including Mabel, and the two young people instantly fall in love. With its humorous blend of romantic entanglements and memorable melodies, this delightful production promises an evening of laughter and theatrical magic.
Friday through Sunday, Feb. 2123, times vary. Tickets start at $35. Madison Theatre, Molloy University, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre. Tickets available at madisontheatreny.org or (516) 3234444.
“At this party, everyone has a secret and something to hide. This show explores what happens when those secrets and the masks — that we all wear — get ripped off,” Bustamante says.
Based on Joseph Moncure March’s 1928 poem of the same name, the award-winning off-Broadway musical wowed audiences with its look into love in a messy and exciting fashion when it debuted 25 years ago.
the award-winning off-Broadway musical wowed audiences with its the score,” Bustamante says. “The nature of the music
While the narrative poem is almost a century old, Lippa’s adaptation brings a modern take to the story, blending the captivating allure of the 1920s with a modern feel.
“The music is a lot more contemporary and eclectic, all while being rooted in jazz. There are some really exciting pop, Latin and contemporary musical theater elements in the score,” Bustamante says. “The nature of the music allows audiences today to engage with the story and see themselves in the characters’ experiences in a really impactful way.”
From larger-than-life dancing sequences such as “Juggernaut,” to soulful reflections as in “What Is It About Her?,” the production traverses the range of human emotions and complicated identities those vaudeville entertainers of that era.
“All these people at the party are people who don’t belong in other places. The nature of what it meant to be a vaudevillian performer was you were uplifted and applauded at one moment and then not allowed certain restaurants or rooms at the next,” Bustamante explains.
“At its core, it’s something really beautiful. But on the
“At its core, it’s something really beautiful. But on the other hand, these are all damaged people because of the lives that they’ve had to leave, and that sets the stage for an evening where a lot can really go down.”
This isn’t the first time that Bustamante has helmed the story. In fact, he was involved with a different musical adaptation of the famous poem, created by Michael John LaChiusa. His resume includes acting in productions such as Broadway Theatre’s “Miss Saigon” in addition to his directorial turns in “Here Lies Love” (assistant director) and Stephen
as a party guest, the rambunctious boxer Eddie. says.
“It was the number that introduced me to the show, and it has just a very fun, infectious vibe,” Domingo
an
For the cast of 25, this production is an opportunity to hone their performing skills before going forward professionally.
opportunity to hone their performing skills before [being with] working professionals who are
“The [CAP21] program teaches you a lot about how to be an individual in theater. Because we’re in New York, you get the experience of [being with] working professionals who are working on Broadway, Off Broadway and developing musicals,” Domingo continues.
“I’ve grown in more ways than I thought I ever would. And when it comes to my training, I achieved things that I thought would take way longer to achieve already.”
So get ready to head to the theater — it’s time to join the party.
I thought I ever would. And when it head theater — it’s time to join the party.
audience Party” feeling
“I hope that our audience can leave “The Wild Party” feeling entertained, but at the same time a little educated and with a deeper understanding of themselves,” Bustamante
understanding of themselves,” Bustamante says.
masks serve you, and what masks might you
“And our version of the show can really help ask the question of our audience: ‘What masks serve you, and what masks might you be ready to let go.’
Recognized as one of Europe’s first-rank symphonic ensembles and renowned for its versatility, the Czech National Symphony Orchestra brings its current U.S. tour to Long Island, under the baton of music director Steven Mercurio. Dynamic guest soloist Maxim Lando, an American pianist and winner of the 2022 New York Franz Liszt International Competition, joins CNSO. He and violinist Sandy Cameron perform beloved works from the Romantic repertoire — Jan Václav Hugo Voríšek’s Sinfonia Re Maggiore, Felix Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64 and selected works from Antonín Dvorák, including Piano Concerto in G minor, Op. 33 and Czech Suite.
The Wild Party contains mature themes.
Saturday, Feb. 22, 3 p.m. Tickets start at $35. Tilles Center for the Performing Arts, LIU Post campus, 720 Northern Blvd., Brookville. Tickets available at ticketmaster.com or tillescenter.org or (516) 299-3100.
Colin Jost
Live … from Long Island … it’s Colin Jost! He appears on the Paramount stage, Thursday, March 13, 8 and 10 p.m. From Saturday Night Live to standup to his appearances in film, other TV ventures and even authoring a memoir, Jost is seemingly everywhere. He is currently in the middle of his 11th season as SNL’s “Weekend Update” coanchor, and his 20th as an SNL writer. His accolades are many: five Writers Guild Awards, two Peabody Awards and 15 Emmy nominations for his writing on “SNL.” Jost and his Weekend Updatemate Michael Che have hosted special editions of “Weekend Update” on MSNBC during the 2016 Republican and Democratic national conventions as well as co-hosted the 70th Primetime Emmy Awards in 2018.
Also, in 2024 they executive produced and co-hosted Peacock’s first live comedy event, “Colin Jost and Michael Che Present: New York After Dark,” which featured an evening of surprise dropin performances from stand-up comedians. As a writer, Jost has been published multiple times in the New Yorker and has contributed to the New York Times Magazine, among other endeavors. In 2020, Jost debuted “A Very Punchable Face.” A New York Times bestseller, the memoir is a series of essays that documents pivotal moments in Jost’s life, including growing up in Staten Island in a family of firefighters, commuting three hours a day to high school, attending Harvard while Facebook was created and more. And in 2024, he even appeared as a correspondent from Tahiti for NBC Sports for the surfing competition at the summer Olympic Games, plus last year he was featured entertainer of the 2024 White House Correspondents Dinner. $129.50, $119.50, $89.50, $79.50, $69.50, $59.50. The Paramount, 370 New York Ave., Huntington. (800) 745-3000 or Ticketmaster.com or ParamountNY.com.
Converse, collaborate and create at Family Saturdays at Nassau County Museum of Art. The drop-in program continues, Saturday, Feb. 22, noon-3 p.m. Kids and their adult partners talk about and make art together. While there, enjoy reading and play in the Reading Room, and contribute to The Lobby Project, a collaborative art installation.Registration required. 1 Museum Dr., Roslyn Harbor. Visit nassaumuseum. org to register or call (516) 4849337.
The Whaling Museum invites all to a presentation on “The Wide Wide Sea” by Hampton Sides, Wednesday, Feb. 25, 6:30 p.m. In February of 1779, James Cook famously met his end on a Hawaiian beach. Hampton Sides’ bestseller details the disturbing behavior and violent moods that gripped the explorer on this final, fatal voyage and wrestles with Cook’s legacy amid the backdrop of colonialism.
Participants will explore artifacts from the time when Hawaii was a popular whaling port. $15, free for museum members and patrons of participating libraries. Register shorturl.at/CQXDJ. For more information, call (631) 3673418. 301 Main St., Cold Spring Harbor.
Annie Mark takes the LIMEHOF stage
Annie Mark, a New York-based singer-songwriter who has shared her country-tinged Americana-roots music with audiences from Florida to Ireland appears at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame, Sunday, Feb. 23, 3 p.m. Her songs explore life’s journey and universal themes of love and loss, struggles and triumphs, shadows and light, with a little humor thrown in. The event is free with an admission ticket. $29.50 for adults; $27, 65 and older; $22 students. To purchase your admission ticket, visit limehof. org or call (631) 689-5888. Tickets can also be purchased prior to the show at the ticket office. 97 Main St., Stony Brook.
Students in grades 6-12 are invited to Copiague Memorial Public Library for a showing of “Transformers One,” Friday, Feb. 21, 6-8 p.m. Registration required at copiague. librarycalendar.com/event/ teen-movie-pizza-44675. For more information, call (631) 691-1111. 50 Deauville Blvd., Copiague.
Amityville Public Library invites residents to meet with their tech and have all technology related questions answered. Bring in your cell phone, laptop, iPhone, Android or any tech-related questions for help navigating this everchanging world of technology. Call (631) 264-0567 or visit the reference desk to schedule an appointment. Amityville Public Library,19 John St., Amityville.
Adelphi University Performing Arts students present the musical adaptation of “The Spitfire Grill,” Wednesday through Sunday, Feb. 26-March 2. Based on the 1996 film by Lee David Zlotoff, this is a heartwarming and inspirational musical tale of redemption, perseverance and family. It follows a troubled young parolee yearning for a fresh start,set to a melodic folkinspired score. $30. Adelphi University Performing Arts Center, 1 South Ave., Garden City. (516) 877-4000 or Adelphi. edu/pac.
Amityville Public Library hosts a presentation on African American Medical Pioneers, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 7-8 p.m. African Americans have been at the forefront of many important medical advances. Celebrate Black History Month and discover the unknown contributions of Pittsburgh’s Freedom House Ambulance Corps, the first in the nation, and Staten Island’s Black Angels, nursing pioneers in the treatment of tuberculosis. Registration required. Call (631) 264-0567 for more information. 19 John St., Amityville.
Join horticulturist Paul Levine, at Copiague Memorial Public Library, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 3-4 p.m., to learn all about which plants are best for the bedroom, bathroom and other rooms in your home. To register and for more information, call (631) 6911111. 50 Deauville Blvd., Copiague.
The Town of Babylon holds its annual art contest. Submissions are due by Friday, March 14 , 4 p.m. This year’s theme is “Town Pride.” Participants must be Town of Babylon residents. All ages are welcome; only one submission per resident. Photographs, drawings and painting are all accepted mediums.To access the application, visit shorturl.at/xSIEo. For more information, call (631) 8932100.
Warm up with a movie on Copiague Memorial Public Library’s big screen. See “The Color Purple,” Wednesday, Feb. 26, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Doors open at 11:30 a.m.; movie begins at noon. Feel free to bring a beverage and snack. To register and for more information, call (631) 691-1111. 50 Deauville Blvd., Copiague.
Items on The Scene 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 thescene@liherald.com.
Suffolk County Community College presents the exhibition “Drone Beuys: Origins,” at the Sagtikos Art Gallery, through Friday, March 28. The collaborative project by artists Nick Bontrager and Adam Fung utiliz contemporary technology to reflect on the legacy of renowned artist Joseph Beuys. Through video projections, sculptures, and a large-scale inflatable structure, the exhibit transforms the gallery into a space of exploration, wonder, and experimentation. It features landscapes from various residency projects, including Iceland, West Texas, the Caribbean seas, Tasmania and Italy, along with animations and data points that traverse both real and imagined terrestrial layers. Visitors engage with the interactive works, contributing to the creation of a growing, collaborative origin story. Gallery hours are Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information, contact Sagtikos Art Gallery at (631) 851-6380. Sagtikos Arts and Science Building on the Michael J. Grant campus in Brentwood, 1001 Crooked Hill Road, Brentwood.
St. Martin of Tours Church in Amityville offers religious education classes for grades 1-8. Classes meet once a week and sacrament preparation is offered for all ages, including high school level. Religious education begins in grade 1 and First Communion and First Reconciliation is a twoyear preparation. Sacraments are received at the end of the second year. All are welcome to register. Online forms can be found at stmartinamityville.com/religious-education/ 41 Union Avenue, Amityville. For information, call (631) 691-1617.
The four essential practices of gratitude, contentment, compassion, and forgiveness are explored in an eight-part meditation workshop series at Science of Spirituality Meditation Center, continuing Tuesdays, Feb. 25; March 4, 11, 18, and 25, 7-9 p.m. Each class is a stand-alone workshop. No prior knowledge needed. Speaker Andrew Vidich discusses how gratitude, contentment, compassion, and forgiveness deepen our meditations and open our hearts to our authentic selves. For information and to register, call (631) 822-7979, (888) 666-1990, or go to sos.org/location/amityville. 79 County Line Road, Amityville.
NOTICE OF SALE
Supreme Court County of Suffolk Wilmington Savings Fund Society FSB d/b/a Christiana Trust as Trustee for PNPMS Trust I, Plaintiff AGAINST Linda Morris a/k/a Linda Morris Jackson, et al, Defendant
Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly dated November 25, 2024 and entered on December 5, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Hwy., North Lindenhurst, NY on February 26, 2025 at 3:00 PM premises known as 2712 Schleigel Boulevard, Amityville, NY 11701. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the County of Suffolk, State of New York, SECTION: 122.00, BLOCK: 02.00, LOT: 047.13. Approximate amount of judgment is $113,156.45 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 206773/2022. Robert Fuchs, Referee FRENKEL
LAMBERT WEISS
WEISMAN & GORDON LLP
53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706
25-215. 1/29. 2/5, 12, 19
Notice of the Annual Meeting of Beth Moses Cemetery Corporation The Annual Meeting of the Beth Moses Cemetery Corpora-
tion (“the Corporation”) for the election of Directors and for transactions of such other business as may properly come before this meeting, will be held in the office of Pryor Cashman LLP, 7 Times Square, New York, NY 10036 Borough of Manhattan, City of New York on the 4th day of March 2025 at 2:00 in the afternoon. Dated February 2025 Anthony Biolsi Secretary 25-222. 2/12, 19, 26
SUMMONS Supreme Court of New York, Suffolk County U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR RMTP TRUST, SERIES 2021 COTTAGE-TT-V, Plaintiff -against- RAFAEL ASTACIO, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ELIZABETH ASTACIO; TIMOTHY G. ASTACIO, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ELIZABETH ASTACIO; UNKNOWN HEIRS OF THE ESTATE OF ELIZABETH ASTACIO; U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT F/K/A SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (EASTERN DISTRICT) O/B/O INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; SUFFOLK COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE; "JOHN DOE" AND "JANE
DOE" said names being fictitious, it being the intention of Plaintiff to designate any and all occupants of premises being foreclosed herein, Defendants. Index No. 615011/2024.
Mortgaged Premises: 255 Meucci Avenue Copiague, NY 11726 District: 0100 Section: 199.00 Block: 03.00 Lot: 046.000. To The Above Named Defendant(s): YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other 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. If you fail to appear or to answer within the aforementioned time frame, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECTIVE of the above captioned action is to foreclose on a Mortgage to secure $$383,330.00 and interest, recorded in the Suffolk County Clerk’s Office on August 13, 2012, in Liber Book M00022236, at Page 847, covering the premises known as 255 Meucci Avenue, Copiague, NY 11726. The relief sought herein is a final judgment directing sale of the premises de-
scribed above to satisfy the debt secured by the mortgage described above. Plaintiff designates Suffolk County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is located. 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 the mortgage company will not stop the 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. FRIEDMAN VARTOLO, LLP 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160 Garden City, New York 11530, Attorneys for Plaintiff. 25-224. 2/12, 19, 26, 3/5
Plaintiff designates SUFFOLK as the place of trial situs of the real property SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS
Mortgaged Premises: 823 VENETIAN BOULEVARD, LINDENHURST, NY 11757
District: 0100, Section: 228.00,
Block: 01.00, Lot: 072.000, 073.006 SUPREME
COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK INDEX NO. 620924/2024
COUNTY OF SUFFOLK
SELECT PORTFOLIO SERVICING, INC. Plaintiff, vs. DANIEL P. CRONIN, if living, and if she/he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the 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; ADMINISTRATOR OF THE SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION, AN AGENCY OF THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,
“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, described in the complaint, Defendants.
To the above named Defendants
YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other 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. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you.
NOTICE OF NA -
TURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT
THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Consolidation, Extension, and Modification Agreement to secure the sum of $202,300.00 and interest, recorded on June 07, 2004, in Liber M00020765
at Page 029, of the Public Records of SUFFOLK County, New York., covering premises known as 823 VENETIAN BOULEVARD, LINDENHURST, NY 11757.
The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.
SUFFOLK County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county.
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 the mortgage company will not stop the 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.
Dated: February 5th, 2025 ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff Matthew Rothstein, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675 25-231 2/19, 26, 3/5, 12
Science of Spirituality will be hosting a Women’s Retreat on Saturday, March 15 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Learn how to face life’s challenges by finding your center of inner strength, peace and love through meditation. The program will include a complimentary vegetarian lunch. Come for discussion, sisterhood, meditation and friendship.
Featured workshops include Meditation, Beautify Your Life with Emotional Wellness with Ekta Kohli Portillo, LCSW; Yoga for Health and Inner Harmony with Ferlaisa Gomez, ALM, RYT; and Vegan Bites for One or More with Rosanna Jimenez, CHHC.
To register, please email infotristate@sos.org
For more information, please call (631) 822-7979.
Science of Spirituality Meditation Center is located at 79 County Line Road, Amityville.
NOTICE is hereby given that the BOARD OF APPEALS of the Village of Amityville will hold a Public Hearing in the Court Room of Village Hall, 21 Ireland Place, Amityville, NY at 7:00 P.M. on THURSDAY, February 27th, 2025, to consider the following applications: Application of Roberto Aracena. Applicant seeks a special exception to allow the outdoor storage of automotive tires pursuant to Section 183-96 of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the Northwest corner of Albany Avenue and Sprague Avenue in an “Industrial” district known as 100 Albany Avenue a/k/a SCTM #1012-4-14.
Application of Rajib Chowdhury. Applicant seeks a special exception to convert a one-family dwelling to a parent-child residence pursuant to Section 183-43 C. (4) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the Southeast corner of County Line Road and Willis Avenue in a “Residential B” district known as 66 Willis Avenue a/k/a SCTM #101-3-3-58.
Application of Andrew Colby. Applicant seeks to renew a special exception for an owner-occupied two-family dwelling pursuant to Section 183-43 C. (6) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the East side of Central Avenue approximately 425 feet South of Riverside Street in a “Residential B” district known as 84 Central Avenue a/k/a SCTM #10111-13-51.
Application of Amityville Cellars Holdings, LLC on behalf of Amity Shores, LLC. Applicants seek a Use Variance to erect a new onestory restaurant and winery with cellar in multiple zoning districts pursuant to Sections 183-43 and 183-9 of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the North side of Merrick Road approximately 288 feet West of Bayview Avenue, partially in a “B-2 Business” district, partially in a “Residential A” district, and partially in a “Residential B” district known as 292 Merrick Road a/k/a SCTM #101-8-1-20. Application of Kevin Bertolini on behalf of Kimberly Coffey. Applicant seeks multiple variances associated with the proposed conversion of the existing mixed-use structure to a 6-family multiple dwelling. Variance 1 is a Use Variance for the multiple dwelling conversion pursuant to Section 183-43 of the Village of Amityville Code. Variance 2 is to maintain the nonconforming frontage on Ketcham Avenue, the non-conforming depth from West Oak Street, and the overall non-conforming lot size of 7121SF where 7500SF is required pursuant to Section 183-44 of the Village Code. Variance 3 is to exceed the allowed maximum height from 28 feet to 31.5 feet pursuant to Section 183-46 of the Village Code. Variance 4 is to reduce the required roof pitch from 4/12 to 0/12 (Flat Roof) pursuant to Section 183-48 of the Village Code. Variance 5 is to vertically expand the structure
on the existing nonconforming rear lot line pursuant to Section 183-54 of the Village Code. Variance 6 is to reduce the required parking from 12 spaces to 9 spaces pursuant to Section 183-129 of the Village Code. Premises located on the Southwest corner of West Oak Street and Ketcham Avenue in a “Residential B” district known as 95 West Oak Street a/k/a SCTM #101-5-1-10.
Application of Vincent and Carolyn Franco. Applicants seek a variance to increase the allowed maximum height from 30 feet to 34 feet 10 inches associated with alterations of a single-family residence pursuant to 183-29 of the Village Code. Premises located on the Southeast corner of Marion Rd. and South Ketcham Ave in a "Residential BB" district known as 32 Marion Rd a/k/a SCTM#10111-3-1.
Application of Chris Moustouka. Applicant seeks a use variance to maintain a 3-family dwelling pursuant to Section 183-43 of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the South side of Railroad Avenue approximately 225 feet East of Route 110 in a “Residential B” District known as 25 Railroad Avenue a/k/a SCTM# 1014-3-3.6.
Application of Vincent and Carolyn Franco. Applicants seek a variance to increase the allowed maximum height from 30 feet to 34 feet 10 inches associated with alterations of a single-family residence pursuant to 183-29 of the Village Code. Premises located on the Southeast corner
of Marion Rd. and South Ketcham Ave in a "Residential BB" district known as 32 Marion Rd a/k/a SCTM#101-11-3-1. By order of the Zoning Board of Appeals, Village of Amityville, Catherine Murdock, Clerk/Treasurer 25-226. 2/12, 19
SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF SUFFOLK MATRIX FINANCIAL SERVICES CORPORATION
Plaintiff, -againstBERSHELL HALL AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF FREDERICA COOLEY WHO WAS HEIR AND ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF LOIS COOLEY; KHADIJAH DUFF AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF FREDERICA COOLEY WHO WAS HEIR AND ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF LOIS COOLEY; BERNADINE COOLEY AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF FREDERICA COOLEY WHO WAS HEIR AND ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF LOIS COOLEY; CARL BOUCICAULT AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF FREDERICA COOLEY WHO WAS HEIR AND ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF LOIS COOLEY AND FREDERICA COOLEY’S unknown heirs at law, her next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors, and successors in interest, and generally all persons having or claiming, under, by or through said
defendant who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise, any right title or interest in and to the premises described in the complaint herein; WIHELMINA COLLIER AS HEIR OF THE ESTATE OF LOIS COOLEY; TANZA COOLEY AS HEIR OF THE ESTATE OF LOIS COOLEY; THOMAS COOLEY AS HEIR OF THE ESTATE OF LOIS COOLEY; TIMOTHY COOLEY AS HEIR OF THE ESTATE OF LOIS COOLEY; CLERK OF THE SUFFOLK COUNTY TRAFFIC & PARKING VIOLATIONS AGENCY; CITIFNANCIAL MORTGAGE CO., INC.; LANDMARK FINANCIAL SERVICES INC.; NORTH STAR CAPITAL ACQUISITIONS LLC; CLERK OF THE SUFFOLK COUNTY DISTRICT COURT; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, UNITED STATES OF AMERICAINTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE, JOHN DOE (REFUSED NAME), Defendants. INDEX # 614591/2024 Original filed with Clerk June 13, 2024. Plaintiff Designates Suffolk County as the Place of Trial. The Basis of Venue is that the subject action is situated Suffolk County. Premises: 81 New Ave Wyandanch, NY 11798. TO THE ABOVENAMED 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 Attorney(s) within 20 days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); the United States of America may appear or answer within 60 day of service hereof; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT The OBJECT of the above captioned action is to foreclose a Mortgage in the amount of $129,000.00 plus interest, recorded in the office of the clerk of the County of SUFFOLK on February 4, 2017 in book 22786 page 357 covering premises known as 81 New Ave, Wyandanch, NY 11798. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. 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 MATRIX FINANCIAL SERVICES CORPORATION AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: Uniondale, New York, January 31, 2025 Respectfully submitted, Pincus Law Group, PLLC. By: /s/ Linda P. Manfredi, Esq., Attorneys for Plaintiff, 425 RXR Plaza Uniondale, NY 11556, 516-6998902
25-228. 2/12, 19, 26, 3/5
Notice of formation of ASK Health Care Service
Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/17/2024 Office location, County of Suffolk. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC United States Corporation Inc 7014 13th Ave Brooklyn NY 11218 suite 202 upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a process served to: The LLC, ASK Health Care Svc 737 Elmwood Rd., West Babylon NY 11704 Purpose: any lawful act.
25-229 2/19, 26, 3/5, 12, 19, 26
NOTICE is hereby given that the PLANNING BOARD of the Village of Ami-
tyville will hold a Public Hearing in the Court Room of Village Hall, 21 Ireland Place, Amityville, NY at 6:00 P.M. on THURSDAY, March 6, 2025, to consider the following applications:
Application of Brandon Hamchuk, RA on behalf of Matthew Friedrich. Applicant seeks architectural review and approval for the proposed construction of a 24’ x 32’ detached garage pursuant to Section 24-6 A. (1) (h) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the West side of Unqua Place approximately 277 feet South of Richmond Avenue in a “Residential B” District known as 15 Unqua Place a/k/a SCTM #101-13-145. Application of Universal Sign/Paula Ruiz on behalf of Extra Space Storage. Applicant seeks review and approval for the proposed installation of a new Extra Space Storage Branding Package pursuant to Section 24-6 A (1) (j) of the Village of Amityville Code. Premises located on the South side of Sterling Place approximately 110 feet West of Broadway (Rt 110), known as 24 Sterling Place a/k/a SCTM #1013-5-4.2. By Order of the Planning Board, Village of Amityville Catherine Murdock, Clerk/Treasurer 25-232. 2/19, 26
NOTICE OF SPECIAL DISTRICT MEETING OF THE AMITYVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY BUDGET VOTE AND TRUSTEE ELECTION APRIL 8, 2025
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Special Meeting of the qualified voters of the Amityville Union Free School District (the “District”), Town of Babylon, Suffolk County and Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, New York will be held at the Amityville Public Library, 19 John St., Amityville, New York 11701 (the “Library”) on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, between the hours of 10:00am and 9:00pm, for the purpose of voting on the following items:
• To adopt the annual budget of the Amityville Public Library for the fiscal year 20252026, and to authorize the requisite portion thereof to be raised by taxation on the taxable property of the District; and
• The election of one (1) member of the Board of Trustees for a five-year term commencing July 1, 2025, and expiring on June 30, 2030, as a result of the expiration of the term of office presently held by Sharon Tener.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that copies of a statement of the estimated library expenses for the fiscal year 2025-2026 may be obtained at the Library (address above) and in the Office of the School District Clerk, located at 150 Park Ave., Amityville, NY 11701, daily except Saturday and Sunday, beginning
March 10, 2025, between 9:00am and 4:00pm.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that the Library will host a public informational meeting for the purposes of discussion of the proposed 2025-2026 Library Budget on March 24, 2025. All residents of the District are invited to attend at the Library.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that candidates for the office of Trustee of the Library Board of Trustees shall be nominated by petition. Petitions must be filed with the School District Clerk (address above), between the hours of 9:00am and 5:00pm no later than Monday, March 10, 2025. Forms of petition may be obtained from the School District Clerk. Each petition must be directed to the School District Clerk; must state the name address of the candidate; must be signed by at least twentyfive (25) qualified voters of the District and list each signer’s address.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that pursuant to section 2014 of the Education Law, personal registration of voters is required, and no person shall be entitled to vote at said meeting and election whose name does not already appear on the register of said school district, or who does not register as hereinafter provided, except as may otherwise be provided by the laws of the State of New York. Registration is available in the Office of the School District Clerk (address above) Monday through Friday, from 9:00am to 4:00pm, through
April 8, 2025. The register so prepared includes all persons who have presented themselves personally for registration in accordance herewith, and all persons who shall have been registered previously hereunder for an annual or special meeting or election, and who shall have voted at any annual meeting or election, held or conducted at any time within four (4) years prior to the preparation of the register.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that applications for early mail or absentee ballots may be applied for at the Office of the School District Clerk (address above). Completed applications must be received in the Office of the School District Clerk at least seven (7) days before the election, if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election, if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter. Early mail or absentee ballots must be received by the School District Clerk, or in the polling place at the Library, not later than 5:00pm, prevailing time, on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. A list of persons to whom early mail or absentee ballots shall have been issued will be available in the Office of the School District Clerk on each of the five days prior to the day of the election, except Saturdays and Sundays and such list will also be posted at the polling place at the election.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, that a qualified voter whose ability to appear personally at the polling place is substantially impaired by reasons of permanent illness or physical dis-
ability, and whose registration record has been marked “permanently disabled” by the Board of Elections pursuant to the provisions of the Education Law, shall be entitled to receive an absentee ballot without making separate applications therefore.
FURTHER NOTICE IS GIVEN that military voters who are not currently registered may apply to register as a qualified voter. Military voters who are qualified voters of the Library District may submit an application for a military ballot. Military voters may designate a preference to receive a military voter registration, military ballot application or military ballot by mail, facsimile transmission, or electronic mail in their request for such registration, ballot application or ballot. Military voter registration forms and military ballot applications must be received in the Office of the School District Clerk (address above) no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday March 14, 2025. No military ballot will be canvassed unless it is received by the Office of the School District Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on the day of the election.
Dated: Amityville, New York
February 19, 2025 BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE AMITYVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY, TOWN OF BABYLON, SUFFOLK COUNTY AND TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK BY DISTRICT CLERK AMITYVILLE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT, TOWN OF
BABYLON, SUFFOLK COUNTY, TOWN OF OYSTER BAY, NASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK
DE SUFFOLK, CIUDAD DE OYSTER BAY, CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK 25-236A. 2/19, 3/5, 19, 4/2
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT SUFFOLK COUNTY
THE STATE OF NEW YORK MORTGAGE AGENCY, Plaintiff against MARTIN ROBINSON AKA MARTIN D. ROBINSON, IF LIVING, AND IF DEAD, THE RESPECTIVE HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DISTRIBUTES, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, TRUSTEES, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, ASSIGNORS, LIENORS, CREDITORS AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST AND GENERALLY ALL PERSONS HAVING OR CLAIMING UNDER, BY OR THROUGH SAID DEFENDANT WHO MAY BE DECEASED, BY PURCHASE, INHERITANCE, LIEN OR OTHERWISE OF ANY RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST IN AND TO THE PREMISES DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT HEREIN, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE HUSBANDS, WIVES, OR WIDOWS, IF ANY, AND EACH AND EVERY PERSON NOT SPECIFICALLY NAMED WHO MAY BE ENTITLED TO OR CLAIM TO HAVE ANY
RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST IN THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THE VERIFIED COMPLAINT; ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES AND PLACES OF RESIDENCE UNKNOWN, AND CANNOT AFTER DILIGENT INQUIRY BE ASCERTAINED BY THE PLAINTIFF, ARLICIA ROBINSON AKA ARLICIA S. ROBINSON A/K/A ARLICIA S. AGARD, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC, 28 Corporate Drive, Suite 104, Halfmoon, NY 12065. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered January 5, 2024, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at Babylon Townhall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, NY 11757 on March 26, 2025 at 9:00 AM. Premises known as 254 Albany Avenue, Amityville, NY 11701. District 0100 Sec 169.00 Block 02.00 Lot 032.000. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Town of Babylon, North of the Village of Amityville, County of Suffolk and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $578,901.22 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 615235/2018. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 10th Judicial District's Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Ref-
eree shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing.
Sabita HajareeRamsaran, Esq., Referee File # 21001073-01
25 -230 2/19, 26, 3/5, 12
NOTICE OF PUBLIC AND/OR INFORMATIONAL HEARINGS BY THE TOWN OF BABYLON PLANNING BOARD
Pursuant to Chapter 186, Site Plan Review, and Chapter 213, Zoning, of the Babylon Town Code and Section 276 of the Town Law, notice is hereby given that the Town of Babylon Planning Board will hold public and/or informational hearings(s) at the Babylon Town Hall, Town Board Room, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York, on the Monday, February 24, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. prevailing time or as soon thereafter as can be heard to consider the follow-
ing application(s): PUBLIC HEARING/SITE PLAN REVIEW/BAR/RESTAURANT
JOB# 24-35AF; Q Lindenhurst, LLC: SCTM# 0100-20801-071.001: Zone –EB Business: SEQRA – Type II Action: Applicant proposes to demolish an existing building in order to construct a 2,363sf one-story Qdoba restaurant for 50 seats (44 indoor & 6 outdoor) with a drivethru, along with associated site improvements.: Property is located on the northeast corner of Sunrise Highway & N. Green Avenue, Lindenhurst, Suffolk County, Town of Babylon, New York All interested persons should appear at the above time and place by order of Patrick Halpin, Chairperson of the Planning Board, Town of Babylon, North Lindenhurst, Suffolk County, New York PRINTING INSTRUCTIONS Amityville Record: 02-19-25 25-233. 2/19
AVISO DE LA REUNIÓN ESPECIAL
DEL DISTRITO DE LA BIBLIOTECA
PÚBLICA DE AMITYVILLE
VOTACIÓN DEL PRESUPUESTO Y ELECCIÓN DEL FIDEICOMISARIO 8 DE ABRIL DE 2025
POR LA PRESENTE
SE NOTIFICA que una Reunión Especial de los votantes calificados del Distrito Escolar Libre de la Unión de Amityville (el "Distrito"), Ciudad de Babylon, Condado de Suffolk y Ciudad de Oyster Bay, Condado de Nassau, Nueva York se llevará a cabo en la Biblioteca Pública de Amityville, 19 John St., Amityville, Nueva York 11701 (la "Biblioteca") el martes 8 de abril, 2025, entre las 10:00 a.m. (mediodía) y las 9:00 p.m., con el propósito de votar sobre los siguientes puntos:
• Adoptar el presupuesto anual de la Biblioteca Pública de Amityville para el año fiscal 20252026, y autorizar que la parte requerida del mismo se recaude mediante impuestos sobre la propiedad imponible del Distrito; y
• La elección de un (1) miembro de la Junta Directiva por un período de cinco años que comienza el 1 de julio de 2025 y expira el 30 de junio de 2030, como resultado de la expiración del mandato que actualmente ocupa Sharon Tener.
ADEMÁS, SE NOTIFICA que se pueden obtener copias de una declaración de los gastos estimados de la biblioteca para el año fiscal 20252026 en la Biblioteca (dirección anterior) y en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar, ubicada en 150 Park Ave., Amityville, NY 11701, todos los días, excepto
sábados y domingos, a partir del 10 de marzo de 2025 entre las 9:00 a. m. y las 4:00 p. m.
ADEMÁS, SE NO -
TIFICA que la Biblioteca organizará una reunión informativa pública con el fin de discutir el Presupuesto de la Biblioteca propuesto para 2025-2026 el 24 de marzo de 2025. Todos los residentes del Distrito están invitados a asistir a la Biblioteca.
ADEMÁS SE NOTIFICA que los candidatos para el cargo de Fideicomisario de la Junta de Fideicomisarios de la Biblioteca serán nominados por petición. Las peticiones deben presentarse ante el Secretario del Distrito Escolar (dirección anterior), entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 5:00 p.m. a más tardar el lunes 10 de marzo de 2025. Los formularios de petición se pueden obtener del Secretario del Distrito Escolar. Cada petición debe ser dirigida al Secretario del Distrito Escolar; debe indicar el nombre y la dirección del candidato; debe estar firmado por al menos veinticinco (25) votantes calificados del Distrito y enumerar la dirección de cada firmante.
ADEMÁS SE NOTIFICA que de conformidad con la sección 2014 de la Ley de Educación, se requiere el registro personal de los votantes, y ninguna persona tendrá derecho a votar en dicha reunión y elección cuyo nombre no aparezca ya en el registro de dicho distrito escolar, o que no se registre como se dispone a continuación, excepto que las leyes del Estado de Nueva York dispongan lo contrario. La inscripción está disponible en la Ofi-
cina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar (dirección anterior) de lunes a viernes, de 9:00 a.m. a 4:00 p.m., hasta el 8 de abril de 2025. El registro así preparado incluye a todas las personas que se hayan presentado personalmente para el registro de conformidad con el presente, y todas las personas que hayan sido registradas previamente en virtud del presente para una reunión o elección anual o especial, y que hayan votado en cualquier reunión o elección anual, celebrada o realizada en cualquier momento dentro de los cuatro (4) años anteriores a la preparación del registro.
ADEMÁS SE NOTIFICA que las solicitudes de boletas anticipadas por correo o en ausencia se pueden solicitar en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar (dirección anterior). Las solicitudes completas deben recibirse en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar al menos siete (7) días antes de la elección, si la boleta se va a enviar por correo al votante, o el día antes de la elección, si la boleta se va a entregar personalmente al votante.
Las boletas anticipadas por correo o en ausencia deben ser recibidas por el Secretario del Distrito Escolar, o en el lugar de votación en la Biblioteca, a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m., hora prevaleciente, el martes 8 de abril de 2025. Una lista de las personas a las que se les habrá emitido una boleta anticipada por correo o en ausencia estará disponible en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar en cada uno de los cinco días anteriores al día de la elección,
excepto los sábados y domingos, y dicha lista también se publicará en el lugar de votación en la elección.
ADEMÁS, SE NOTIFICA que un votante calificado cuya capacidad para comparecer personalmente en el lugar de votación se vea sustancialmente afectada por razones de enfermedad permanente o discapacidad física, y cuyo registro de registro haya sido marcado como "discapacitado permanentemente" por la Junta Electoral de conformidad con las disposiciones de la Ley de Educación, tendrá derecho a recibir una boleta de voto ausente sin hacer solicitudes separadas por ello.
SE DA AVISO ADICIONAL de que los votantes militares que no están registrados actualmente pueden solicitar registrarse como votantes calificados. Los votantes militares que son votantes calificados del Distrito de Bibliotecas pueden presentar una solicitud para una boleta militar. Los votantes militares pueden designar una preferencia para recibir un registro de votante militar, una solicitud de boleta militar o una boleta militar por correo, transmisión de fax o correo electrónico en su solicitud de dicho registro, solicitud de boleta o boleta. Los formularios de registro de votantes militares y las solicitudes de boletas militares deben recibirse en la Oficina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar (dirección anterior) a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. del viernes 14 de marzo de 2025. No se realizará el escrutinio de ninguna boleta militar a menos que sea recibida por la Ofi-
cina del Secretario del Distrito Escolar a más tardar a las 5:00 p.m. del día de la elección. Fechado:
Amityville, Nueva York
19 de febrero de 2025 POR ORDEN DE LA JUNTA DE FIDEICOMISARIOS DE LA BIBLIOTECA PÚBLICA DE AMITYVILLE, LA CIUDAD DE BABILONIA Y LA CIUDAD DE BAY, SUFFOLK COUNTYOYSTERNASSAU COUNTY, NEW YORK
POR SECRETARIO DE DISTRITO DISTRITO ESCOLAR LIBRE DE LA UNIÓN DE AMITYVILLE, CIUDAD DE BABYLON, CONDADO DE SUFFOLK, CIUDAD DE OYSTER BAY, CONDADO DE NASSAU, NUEVA YORK
25-236B. 2/19, 3/5, 19, 4/2
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Notice of Complete Application Date: 02/10/2025
Applicant: ANN MONTERA
Facility: MONTERA PROPERTY 16 JAMES RD AMITY HARBOR, NY 11701
Application ID: 1-4720-01129/00003
Permits(s) Applied for: 1 - Section 401 - Clean Water Act Water Quality Certification 1 - Article 15 Title 5 Excavation & Fill in Navigable Waters
1 - Article 25 Tidal Wetlands
Project is located: in BABYLON in SUFFOLK COUNTY
Project Description:
The applicant proposes to construct 9.5 linear feet of new bulkheading to close and subsequently fill an existing
9.5’ x 15.5’ boat slip. Filling in the boat slip will result in filling 147.25 square feet of tidal wetland area known as littoral zone in a bulkheaded canal. Also proposed is maintenance dredging an area up to 10 feet seaward of the bulkhead to a depth of 4 feet below mean low water, and reconstructing 50.5 linear feet of existing bulkhead 18 inches higher. The resulting dredge spoil is proposed to remain onsite as backfill landward of the bulkhead. The project is located at 16 James Rd, Amity Harbor, Town of Babylon, Suffolk County, NY. SCTM# 100 – 183 –1 – 13.
Availability of Application Documents: Filed application documents, and Department draft permits where applicable, are available for inspection during normal business hours at the address of the contact person. To ensure timely service at the time of inspection, it is recommended that an appointment be made with the contact person.
State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) Determination
Project is not subject to SEQR because it is a Type II action.
SEQR Lead Agency None Designated State Historic Preservation Act (SHPA) Determination
The proposed activity is not subject to review in accordance with SHPA. The application type is exempt and/or the project involves the continuation of an existing operational activity.
Coastal Management This project is located in a Coastal Management area and is subject to the
Waterfront Revitalization and Coastal Resources Act.
Availability For Public Comment Contact Person
Comments on this project must be submitted in writing to the Contact Person no later than 03/06/2025
SUNY or 15 days after the publication date of this notice, whichever is later.
THOMAS S KOHLMANN
NYSDEC
@ Stony Brook|50 Circle Rd
Stony Brook, NY 11790-3409 25-234 2/19
LEGAL NOTICE COMPLETION AND NOTICE OF INVENTORY PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: Effective March 3, 2025, the Village will have an Inventory of real property upon which assessments are based available in the Clerk’s office for review.
LINDA TUMINELLO, RMC Village Administrator/Clerk By Order of the Board of Trustees Dated at Massapequa Park, New York this 11th day of February 2025 25-235. 2/19, 26
NYS Assemblyman Michael Durso, in coordination with Long Island Cares, is inviting the community to participate in his annual Pet Food Drive to help families keep their pets out of shelters and remain at home where they belong. Durso is asking residents, community organizations and pet lovers to kindly donate unopened bags of dog and cat food, canned pet food and pet supplies. All items collected will be donated to Baxter’s Pet Pantry, operated by Long Island Cares, which provides free pet food and pet supplies to pet-owning families in need throughout Long Island.
Donations can be dropped off through April 4 at Durso’s district office at 512 Park Blvd. in Massapequa Park or at various other locations throughout Nassau and Suffolk Counties including:
Petco 5500 Sunrise Hwy, Massapequa; Babylon Public Library 24 S Carll Ave, Babylon; North Babylon Public Library 815 Deer Park Ave, North Babylon; West Babylon Public Library 211 109, West Babylon or West Islip Public Library 3 Higbie Lane, West Islip.
In addition, students at the following schools can bring in donations: Massapequa High School, Massapequa; Bayview Elementary School, West Islip; Manetuck Elementary School, West Islip; Oquenock Elementary School, West Islip; Beach Street Middle School, West Islip Udall Road Middle School, West Islip; West Islip High School, West Islip and Paul J Bellow Elementary School, West Islip
For more information, call Durso’s district office at 516-541-4598.
Pursuant to Chapter 213, Article II of the Building Zone Ordinance of the Town of Babylon, notice is hereby given that the Town of Babylon Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a Public Hearing at TOWN BOARD ROOM
(Located in the East Wing) at Babylon Town Hall, 200 East Sunrise Highway, Lindenhurst, New York on THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2025
BEGINNING AT 6:00 P.M.
6:00 p.m.
1. Application #25022 Tania Segura and Marilyn Almonte, 573 Pinto Street, Babylon, NY.
Permission to diminish distance to north side lot line from 6’ to 3’ (for accessory building (shed)); diminish distance to rear lot line from 6’ to 4.7’ (for accessory building (shed)). All in connection with legally maintaining a shed. Property located on the west side of Carll’s Path, 57.52’ south of Lombard (Oak) Street, North Babylon, NY.
SCTM#0100-1122-12
Zoning District: Residence C
Subject Premises: 104 Carll’s Path, North Babylon, NY
6:05 p.m.
2. Application #25-024 Niranjan A. and Bakula N. Patel, 501 Old Country Road, Deer Park, NY. Permission to increase total building area from 45% to 69.43% (over by 604.14 sq. ft.; diminish rear yard setback from 30’ to 24’-11” (for roofed over outside cellar entrance). All in connection with the erection of an accessory building (shed) and to legally main-
tain a paver patio, roofed over an existing rear stoop and outside basement entrance. Property located on the north side of Old Country Road, 717.97’ east of Pine Acres Boulevard, Deer Park, NY.
SCTM#0100-231-10
Zoning District: Residence C
6:10 p.m.
3. Application #25018 Sanjib Dey and Urmila Chowdhury, 21 Powell Court, North Babylon, NY. Permission to diminish rear yard setback from 30’ to 28.1’ (for sun room); diminish distance to rear lot line from 6’ to 1’ (for accessory building (shed)); diminish distance to west side lot line from 6’ to 0.7’ (for accessory building (shed)). All in connection with the erection of a sun room and to legally maintain a framed shed. Property located on the north side of Powell Court, 905.88’ west of Southern State Parkway, North Babylon, NY.
SCTM#0100-1502-3
Zoning District: Residence C
6:15 p.m.
4. Application #25023 Liram and Samantha Begai, 260 7th Avenue, West Babylon, NY. Permission to diminish front yard setback from 30’ to 26.1’ (for front porch); diminish north side yard setback from 10’ to 6’; allow a 4’ north side yard setback for a chimney encroachment; diminish south side yard setback from 10’ to 7.8’; diminish total side yards from 25’ to 13.8’; increase total building area from 30% to 39.22% (over by 552 sq. ft.); diminish distance to north side lot line from 2’ to 0’ (for raised pa-
tio); diminish distance to north side lot line from 6’ to 5.6’ (for pool). All in connection with a proposed two-story addition, proposed second floor addition and to legally maintain a raised rear yard patio, an above ground pool and paver patio areas. Property located on the east side of 7th Avenue, 75’ south of 14th Street, West Babylon, NY.
SCTM#0100-1313-47
Zoning District: Residence C
6:20 p.m.
5. Application #25026 Factory Direct Ent. LLC d/b/a Ashley Furniture Home Store (applicant)/ Lighthouse Commons, LLC (prop. owner), 1648 Broadhollow Road, East Farmingdale, NY. Permission to increase height of wall sign from 6’ to 10.3’; increase number of wall signs per elevation from one (1) to two (2). All in connection with the erection of non-conforming wall signs. Property located on the northwest corner of Price Parkway and Broadhollow Road, East Farmingdale, NY.
SCTM#0100-331-42.029
Zoning District: Industry G
Subject Premises: 1640 Broadhollow Road, East Farmingdale, NY
6:25 p.m.
6. Application #24250 Dominick Salvemini (applicant)/430 Neptune Avenue LLC (prop. owner), 430 Falmouth Road, West Babylon, NY. Renewal of a special exception permit to operate a public garage for auto repair; allow outdoor storage for forklift and cars awaiting repair. All in connection
with an existing building (previously approved for three (3) years; expired May 4, 2024). Property located on the east side of Falmouth Road, 362.50’ north of Sunrise Highway, West Babylon, NY.
SCTM#0100-1601-29
Zoning District: Industry Ga 6:30 p.m.
7. Application #25-021 Seabreeze Mechanical (tenant)/1445 Strong Ave LLC (prop. owner), 1445 Strong Avenue, Copiague, NY. Permission to allow parking in the front yard at Lambert Avenue; allow parking in the front yard at Chettic Avenue; diminish offstreet parking from forty-one (41) parking spaces required to thirty (30) parking spaces provided. All in connection with alterations to an existing one (1) and two (2) story warehouse. Property located on the west side of Strong Avenue, between Lambert Avenue and Chettic Avenue, Copiague, NY.
SCTM#0100-1982-028
Zoning District: Industry G ALL PERSONS OR THEIR DULY APPOINTED REPRESENTATIVE MUST APPEAR IN PERSON AT THE ABOVE HEARING. ALL CASES WILL BE HEARD IN THE ORDER IN WHICH THEY ARE ADVERTISED, TO BE FOLLOWED BY ADJOURNED CASES. BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
MICHAEL KANE, CHAIRMAN
Dated: Babylon Town Hall Lindenhurst, New York February 10, 2025 25-237. 2/19
PUBLIC NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE FOR TAXES DUE AND UNPAID TO THE VILLAGE OF AMITYVILLE FOR THE YEAR 2024 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT WHEREAS arrears of taxes levied in the year 2024 by the Village of Amityville, charged and imposed pursuant to law, remain due and unpaid on several tracts, plots, pieces, or parcels of land, situate, lying and being in the Village of Amityville, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, and described in the following list indicating the names of those owners or occupants as the same upon the assessment roll for the said year and following said names are amounts, including tax fees, interest and charges against said properties for said year, to wit: (SEE ATTACHED LIST) AND FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to the powers vested in me by law, I shall on the 14th day of March, 2025 at 10:00 AM and the succeeding days until the sale is completed, sell at public auction at ten o’clock in the forenoon in the 3rd Floor Court Room located in the Village Hall at No.21 Ireland Place in the Village Hall, Town of Babylon, County of Suffolk and State of New York, the above described tracts, plots, lots, pieces or parcels of land, until so much of each parcel shall be sold as will be sufficient to pay the tax for the year above specified, together with fees, interest and charges which may be due thereon at the time of the sale; bids shall
be for an amount sufficient to pay said tax, fees, interest and charges, and where no bid shall be of such amount, said premises shall be deemed to have been sold to and purchased by the Village. The purchasers at such sale shall pay the amount of their respective bids to the Village Clerk within ten days after the sale and upon such payment, the Clerk will give to the purchaser a certificate in writing describing the real estate purchased and the sum paid therefor. If any purchaser shall neglect or refuse to pay the amount of his bid or bids within the time prescribed, the Village Clerk may state an account such purchaser and may recover same together with costs from such purchaser, by an action brought in the name of the Village Clerk, or such Village Clerk may cancel so much of such sale to such purchaser and the parcel or parcels so sold shall be deemed to have been purchased by the Village. The owner, the occupant of, or any persons having an interest in any real estate sold for taxes to any party other than the Village itself, may redeem the same at any time prior to the filing of a Notice of Pendency of an action to foreclose the lien of such taxes or prior to the conveyance by the Village Clerk pursuant to the provisions of Section 1450 of the Real Property Tax Law, by paying to the Village Clerk for the use of the purchaser, his heirs or assigns, the sum mentioned in his certificate with the interest thereon at the rate of one percentum per month or fraction thereof,
from the date of sale for which such certificate was given, together with the charges accrued at the time of such redemption, and the amount of any Village Taxes levied upon such real estate which have been paid by such purchaser subsequent to such a sale, with interest on such amount at the rate of one half of one percentum per month, or fraction thereof, from the date of payment, where such payment of taxes was made for the purpose of protecting the lien, of the said purchaser. If said real estate shall have been bid in by, or sold to the Village, the said owner, occupant or person interested in such real estate may redeem same at any time prior to the filing of Notice of Pendency of action to foreclose the tax lien, or prior to conveyance to the Village by the Village Clerk by paying the Village Clerk the amount of such certificate with such interest together with the expenses accrued at the time of such
redemption, as if a certificate for such sale has been issued to an individual. IMPORTANT.... THE NAME OF THE OWNERS SHOWN ON THIS LIST MAY NOT NECESSARILY BE THE NAMES OF THE PERSONS OWNING THE PROPERTY AT THE TIME OF THIS ADVERTISEMENT. SUCH NAMES HAVE BEEN TAKEN FROM THE ASSESSMENT ROLLS PREPARED AS OF APRIL 1, 2024 AND FREQUENTLY DIFFER FROM THE NAMES OF THE OWNERS AT THE TIME OF PUBLICATION OF THE NOTICE. IT MAY ALSO BE THAT SUCH OWNERS ARE NOMINAL ONLY AND ANOTHER PERSON IS ACTUALLY THE BENEFICIAL OWNER.
DATED the 13th day of February 2025, Amityville, New York.
Catherine Murdock, Village Clerk/Treasurer, Amityville, New York TAX SALE- March 14th, 2025 25-238. 220, 26, 3/5
The Amityville Parent Teacher Coalition will be hosting their annual Supermarket Bingo and Silent Auction on Friday, March 7 at Edmund W. Miles Middle School.
Through the raffling of donated goods and services, the APTC can raise funds for several events and activities that are provided to the children of the Amityville school district. Over the years, APTC has purchased school spirit shirts, holiday gifts for families in need, granted scholarships and more. The coalition is also asking for raffle donations in the form of gift certificates for services or merchandise, or even unwanted new or unused items. Baskets are also needed. They request that all donations be made by Saturday, March 1. To donate and for more information, please call (631) 565-6000.
Edmund W. Miles Middle School is located at 501 Broadway, Amityville.
SCTM #
101-1-1-7
101-1-1-23
101-1-1-75
Sambuca
Mario and Lucia Della Vedova
Gisele Fils-Aime Irrev. Trust
Giblin
101-2-1-6 Lawrence J. Krumenacker
101-2-3-9.4 KM New Living Society LLC.
101-2-3-16 189 Sunrise Realty LLC.
101-2.1-1-40 Jose B. and Inocencia Pena 40 Sarah Ct.
Gertrude Follett
101-3.1-1-23 Carolina Zavala Anderson
101-4-2-22
101-4-3-2 Altagracia Madera and Carolyn Madera
101-4-4-1 Marc and Doris Simonetti 4 Austin Ave.
101-5-5-61 Deborah Montagna
101-5-5-63 Peter Adams and Virginia Gallagher
101-5-5-74 153 Oldfield Ave LLC. 153
101-5-7-19
101-5-7-20 St. Pauls Evangelical Church
101-5-7-22 Michael Kahoud
101-5-8-3 Frederick and Joanne Gandolfo
101-5-8-17 Katherine Grechen
101-5-9-1
101-7-1-19 Paul and Debra Mcquillian
St. Patrick’s Day, which is often referred to as “Patty’s Day” or “Paddy’s Day,” is a wildly popular holiday. Though the holiday honors the life of the patron saint of Ireland and has become a way for people from all backgrounds to celebrate Irish culture, celebrants may be surprised to learn that St. Patrick was not really named “Patrick” and he also was not Irish. Historians are uncertain about the actual date of St. Patrick’s birth, but many believe he was born in Roman Britain in the 5th century. Other accounts trace St. Patrick’s birth to present-day Scotland or possibly even Wales. But no account suggests that St. Patrick was born in Ireland. But St. Patrick did set foot on Irish soil, and in fact spent years living in the land now known as the Emerald Isle after he was captured by a group of Irish pirates, taken to Ireland and ultimately enslaved. But St. Patrick was not only not Irish, he also was not named “Patrick.” Historians believe Ireland’s patron saint was born Maewyn Succat, but changed his name to “Patricius” upon becoming a priest after he escaped from slavery. Celebrants of St. Patrick’s Day also may be surprised to learn that St. Patrick was never formally canonized, as he lived prior to the adoption of the current laws governing canonization in the Catholic Church. That said, St. Patrick is still venerated as a saint in various Christian churches, including the Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church.
The following students were recently recognized for academic achievements and graduation at their respective colleges: •The following students were recently named to the Dean’s List at the University at Albany: Priyanka Singh of Amityville, majoring in Biology; Paige Thompson of Amityville, majoring in History; Valery Jacques of Amityville, majoring in Cybersecurity (BS); Venessa Seguino of Copiague, majoring in Psychology; Jelani Harris of Amityville, majoring in Political Science (intended); and Brooke Barnes of Amityville, majoring in Biology (intended).
Continuedfrom previous page
SCTM #
101-1-1-7
101-1-1-23
101-1-1-75
101-2-1-6
Sambuca Holdings LLC.
Mario and Lucia Della Vedova
Gisele Fils-Aime Irrev. Trust
Shume Li
Anne Marie Giblin
Lawrence J. Krumenacker
101-2-3-9.4 KM New Living Society LLC.
101-2-3-16 189 Sunrise Realty LLC.
Jose B. and Inocencia Pena
101-3-4-1.3 Gertrude Follett
101-3.1-1-23 Carolina Zavala Anderson
101-4-1-39
101-4-3-2 Altagracia Madera and Carolyn Madera
101-4-4-1 Marc and Doris Simonetti
101-5-5-61 Deborah Montagna
101-5-5-63 Peter Adams and Virginia Gallagher
101-5-5-74
101-5-7-20 St. Pauls Evangelical Church
101-5-7-22 Michael Kahoud
101-5-8-3 Frederick and Joanne Gandolfo
Spring is widely considered a season of rejuvenation. The warmer post-winter air that is a hallmark of spring certainly adds an extra hop to the steps of millions of people each year, but a number of notable events also lend a festive feel to this beloved time of year.
• St. Patrick’s Day: Though the holiday itself occurs on one of the final days of winter, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations tend to take place throughout the month of March. Many communities host St. Patrick’s Day parades after the spring equinox, and celebrations of the patron saint of the Emerald Isle have a reputation for being especially convivial. A St. Patrick’s Day celebration at a local Irish pub featuring live music and food that would be at home on any dinner table in Ireland can mark the perfect way to close out winter and usher in spring.
• March Madness: Basketball fans get their fix and then some each March, when the 68-team, single-elimination NCAA Tournament tips off. Affectionately known as March Madness, the college basketball tournament that unfolds over three weeks from mid-March to early April features its fair share of buzzer beaters, upsets and, of course, busted brackets. Regional contests ensure that just about everyone across the United States is within driving distance of the exciting, if maddening, action.
• Major League Baseball Opening Day: Another hallmark of early spring, Opening Day of the baseball season embodies the seasonal spirit of rejuvenation. Baseball fans across the globe know that every team has a chance come Opening Day, when millions of fans return to stadiums to see their favorite teams kick off the six-month campaign.
• Kentucky Derby: The annual “Run for the Roses” is held on the first Saturday in May and attracts more than 100,000 visitors to the race track at Churchill Downs. Often referred to as “The Fastest Two Minutes in Sports,” the Kentucky Derby serves as the first leg of the Triple Crown and inspires men to don their best seersucker suits and women to showcase their most elaborate, and typically largest, hats as they sip a mint julep and watch the thrilling race unfold.
Help Wanted
CIRCULATION ASSOCIATE
Full Time/Part Time
Richner Communications, publisher of Herald community newspapers has an excellent opportunity for a FT/PT Customer Service Clerk in our busy Circulation Department. Basic customer service and administrative responsibilities include: heavy computer work, answering phones, making phone calls, entering orders, faxing, filing, etc.
STRONG knowledge of EXCEL a must! Knowledge of DATABASE maintenance or postal regulations a big plus. Qualified Candidates must be computer literate, able to multitask, dependable, reliable, organized, energetic, detail oriented and able to work well under deadlines.
Salary Range is $16.50 per hour to $23 per hour. For consideration, please send resume & salary requirements to: careers@liherald.com
Full Time and Part Time
Positions Available!
Busy Print Shop in Garden City is Hiring Immediately for Full Time and Part Time Drivers. Must Have a Clean License and BoxTruck Driving Experience. Hours Vary, Salary Ranges from $17 per hour to $21 per hour Night Availability is a Must. Please Email Resume to careers@liherald.com or Call (516)569-4000 x239
DRIVING INSTRUCTOR
Company Car/ Bonuses. Clean Driving Record Required, Will Train. Retirees Welcome!
$22 - $27/ Hour
Bell Auto School
516-365-5778
Email: info@bellautoschool.com
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 fromo $16.50 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 $34,320 + 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
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 $34,320 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
Q. I am interested in leasing a building that I am certain was flooded during several recent storms. The landlord says the sheetrock and insulation were replaced, and there were only a “few inches of water.” I doubt that. The metal building is stained around the bottom 4 feet, in between tall weeds, since nobody takes care of it. It’s in an industrial area. I wonder why I had to lift my house, but these buildings, which clearly were seriously flooded, never had to make changes to deal with future flooding. I can’t risk losing inventory, and I don’t see where there was much done to prevent water from getting in. I probably won’t take the lease, but I still wonder why these buildings didn’t either have to be raised or make changes for better flood protection.
A. Most commercial buildings were not considered “substantially damaged,” a definition by the Federal Emergency Management Agency requiring flood-prevention implementation. In most cases, only when renovating, waterproofing materials were required to be added to either the inside or outside of buildings, but this was not enforced uniformly with required permits. Part of the reason that flood-proof materials were added was, just as you said, to prevent loss of inventory, but also because businesses can’t be out of commission for very long without losing money.
Flood protective panels that attach at the exterior doors and windows, membranes placed on interior walls behind new finishes, and waterproofing of exterior walls up to 2 feet above the flood elevation, designated by FEMA for your area, have become standard practice for projects where people are concerned about their businesses continuing to operate after the next serious storm. The owner or tenant has to be concerned enough to implement these safeguards, because most commercial buildings in flood-prone areas were either not considered damaged enough to lift or not required to flood-proof unless brought to the attention of officials.
The issue comes down to one thing: insurance. Many people think of FEMA as just a federal government program, but it’s much more than that. It’s a large insurance company, one of the largest in the world. Because there are so many disasters to handle each year — roughly $200 billion worth of damage — most insurance companies stopped insuring coastal communities around the country. There’s just too much risk. So FEMA is designated to cover the high risk, backed by taxpayers to pay for the gaps and losses. That falls to taxpayers because otherwise-thriving communities would cease to exist, tax revenue would be lost, bonds and debt failures would occur and the economy could collapse. It’s all tied together. So even though evaluation or enforcement may not have been done, taking steps as a tenant may be your only recourse. Consult with experienced professionals to create a flood-proof building. Water gets through floors, gaps in walls and places you may not have thought of. Good luck!
WESTINGHOUSE ROKU 32" HD SMART TV, WR32HT2212. New, unopened. $65.00. Valley Stream. (516)209-7970.
Brick/Block/Concrete/Masonry ***MASONRY & CONSTRUCTION*** EARLY BIRD DISCOUNTS! GIUSEPPE MUCCIACCIARO
We Do Pavers, Cultured Stone, Concrete, Bluestone, Blacktop, Fireplace, Patio, Waterproofing, Walkways, Pool Work. Lic#H2204320000 Family Operation Over 40Years. 516-238-6287
Cable/TV/Wiring
Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 OnDemand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-782-4069
E-Z ELECTRIC SERVICES, INC. All Types Residential/Commercial Wiring, Generators, Telephone/Data, Home Entertainment, Service Upgrades, Pools, Spas. Services/Repairs. Violations Removed. Free Estimates Low Rates. 516-785-0646 Lic/Ins.
PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodent, Termite, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-866-448-8311 Have zip code of property ready when calling!
PAINTING & HANDYMAN SERVICE
Tired of calling a contractor & they don't call back? I will call you back the same day! 917-822-0225 Ricky Specializing in carpentry, bathrooms, kitchens, sheetrock, flooring, electric, plumbing. Over 25 yrs exp.Lic/Ins H3805150000
BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-855-399-2076
Home Improvement
CARPENTRY & PAINTING: Residential/ Commercial. All Phases. Licensed/Insured. FREE ESTIMATES! Anthony & J Home Improvements 516-678-6641
DO YOU KNOW what's in your water? Leaf Home Water Solutions offers FREE water testing and whole home water treatment systems that can be installed in as little one day. 15% off your entire purchase. Plus 10% senior & military discounts. Restrictions apply. Schedule your FREE test
DIRECTV- All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Direct and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918
ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-855-399-2719
Attention: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 1-855-399-2582
HEARING AIDS!! HIGH-QUALITY rechargeable, powerful Audien hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Tiny and NEARLY INVISIBLE! 45-day money back guarantee! 855-819-7060
Legal Services
INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT? Don't Accept the insurance company's first offer. Many injured parties are entitled to major cash settlements. Get a free evaluation to see what your case is really worth. 100% Free Evaluation. Call Now: 1-888-454-4717. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest provider
Telecommunications
AFFORDABLE
As we celebrated Presidents’ Day on Monday, I thought back on presidents I’ve had the opportunity to meet over the years. Except for my first meeting with Richard Nixon in 1967, before he was president, all of those meetings resulted from my involvement in politics.
In the summer of 1967, between my second and third years of law school, I worked as an intern in Nixon’s Wall Street law firm. (The fellow intern I was assigned to work with that summer was Rudy Giuliani — who was then a liberal Democrat.)
In addition to the chance encounters we had with Nixon in the hallway or elevator, we interns had a long lunch discussion with him, during which he demonstrated his expansive knowledge of foreign and domestic issues. Surprisingly, he also displayed a certain shyness.
A quarter-century later, in 1993, the then former president was in Washington to address Republicans in Congress, where I told him how much I appreciated the long-ago internship. He was no longer shy, but seemingly at peace. The following year, I attended his funeral in
California.
President Gerald Ford was in the closing days of his 1976 campaign against Jimmy Carter when he spoke at a massive rally at the Nassau Coliseum. At a reception afterward, Ford was gracious and friendly, a class act.
The next time I saw him was in 1998, at Sonny Bono’s funeral in California.
From Nixon to Trump, there have been 10, and each left a different impression.
I had just two brief encounters with Jimmy Carter, the first an introduction at Yitzhak Rabin’s funeral in Jerusalem in 1995. The second was about 10 years ago, when I was on a Delta Shuttle, waiting to take off for Washington, when Carter got on the plane, recognized me, shook my hand and gave me a warm hello and a big smile — an awkward moment for me, since I had attacked him for something on national TV just the day before!
Except for a White House briefing for New York Republicans in 1987, my dealings with President Ronald Reagan consisted of handshakes and photos at political events in Nassau County and Manhattan. I was always struck by his sense of dignity and leadership. He never disappointed.
President George Bush 41 was the last of the old-school presidents, in the best sense of that term. He was very knowl-
edgeable and always respectful of his office. In addition to greeting him at political events before and after his presidency, I was invited, along with other newly elected Republicans, to meet with him in the Oval Office in his final days as president in January 1993. It was inspiring and memorable. He didn’t have a word of regret or complaint. True stature.
Though President Barack Obama offered to appoint me ambassador to Ireland, my dealings with him were infrequent and businesslike. He was always polite, and always “no drama Obama.”
My contacts with Joe Biden were when he was senator and vice president, primarily at social events in Washington. He was invariably cordial and humorous. Always greeted me with a big grin, and would kid me that Irish guys should always be Democrats. He was sharp; very different from how he was as president.
The presidents I spent the most time with were Bill Clinton, George Bush 43 and Donald Trump, all of whom are within two years of me in age. I worked closely with Clinton on the Irish peace process, traveling with him on his historic visits to Northern Ireland. I stood with him during his impeachment. He
couldn’t have been more gracious and friendly to my family. He and Hillary were the first to call the night my mother died. We remain friends.
I saw up close how dedicated the younger George Bush was to helping New York and defeating Islamist terrorism following the horrific Sept. 11 attacks. I was with him in the ruins of the World Trade Center three days afterward, and over the succeeding months and years was at numerous meetings he had with cops, firefighters and 9/11 victims’ family members. A true patriot. Great sense of humor.
Donald Trump was and is one of a kind. He and I grew up in Queens at the same time. Though we lived in different Zip codes, one on one he was like the guys I grew up with, totally down to earth. Despite his public persona, he could be caring and concerned, like when he reached out to my daughter when she was sick, or when he invited my grandchildren to the White House. Most significantly, I’ll always be appreciative of his visits to Long Island, where he led the effort to crush MS-13. These are just some of the recollections from my front-row seat of the 10 men who led our nation over the past six decades.
Peter King is a former congressman, and a former chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security. Comments? pking@ liherald.com.
As best I can remember when I was in fourth grade, we were taught that there are three branches of government — the legislative, the judicial and the executive. And we were taught that they were co-equals, with each possessing powers that the other branches couldn’t interfere with.
To make it simple, our teacher stated that the legislative branch, represented by Congress, is responsible for making laws. The executive branch, headed by the president, enforces laws made by Congress and oversees federal agencies. The judicial branch, led by the Supreme Court, interprets laws and ensures that they comply with the Constitution. In my lifetime, over many decades, I have seen how the wishes of our Founding Fathers were complied with. While I was too young to understand the maneuvers of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, when he stepped over the line, the
Supreme Court reversed a number of his actions. In blunt terms, he was told that some of his actions violated the Constitution.
Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama saw their controversial legislation overridden by a vote of three-fourths of Congress. And on quite a few occasions, the Supreme Court told Congress that it had violated the Constitution and its actions were null and void. That seemed to be in line with what I learned at Public School 26 in Brooklyn.
Wcal issues. Some are consistent with campaign promises Trump made, but others clearly step on the toes of the 435 members of Congress.
e once learned that the White House, Congress and the courts were co-equals.
Having served in the State Assembly for 23 years, I am very much aware of how the systems work in both Washington and Albany. I have seen the Legislature in Albany flex its muscles and override the governor on many occasions. I have seen the courts tell the Legislature that it has stepped over the line and violated the state Constitution.
On Jan. 20, President Trump issued an avalanche of executive orders. Many of them have escaped public attention, because voters don’t spend all their time watching the news and following politi-
Under Article I of the Constitution, Congress is given the sole authority to appropriate money for the operation of the government. There is no language that allows the president to impound funding authorized by Congress. The president campaigned on the promise of abolishing the U.S. Department of Education, but only Congress can dissolve a federal agency.
Some of the most challenging developments in the new Trump term are the actions taken by Elon Musk. He may have been given a blanket direction to cut government waste, but he is not allowed to abolish any federal agency that has been created by Congress. Musk has effectively shut down one agency already by restricting funding, but his powers will no doubt be challenged in the federal courts.
The biggest surprise to me, as a former state and local official, is how civil service protections are being totally ignored. Notices have been sent to thou-
sands of federal workers offering them buyouts with no guarantees that they will keep their jobs if they don’t take them. Actions taken by the administration to force career employees out of their jobs defy what the civil service system is about.
The most eye-popping development is the failure of any Republican member of Congress to complain about the impact of the funding impoundments on their own home communities. Major cancer research hospitals in Louisiana, Ohio, South Dakota and Texas have made urgent cries about the loss of anticipated dollars. Special drugs for serious diseases can’t be purchased without assurances that the money will be available. Rather than free up these dollars, the White House is focusing on efforts like halting the production of pennies that are popular with the public. There seem to be no people in Washington who are echoing the voices of the Founding Fathers. That is our loss.
Jerry Kremer was an assemblyman for 23 years, and chaired the Assembly’s Ways and Means Committee for 12 years. He now heads Empire Government Strategies, a business development and legislative strategy firm. Comments about this column? jkremer@liherald.com.
Amityville
RecoRd
CHARLES DELANO - Founder
Established 1904
Incorporating Amityville Record
CAROLyN JAmES
Associate Publisher / Editor
Donna Consola JessiCa Kleiman
maryann Heins
Multi Media Marketing Consultants
offiCe
2 Endo Boulevard Garden City, NY 11530
Phone: (516) 569-4000
Fax: (516) 569-4942
in February we celebrate Black History Month, honoring the achievements, resilience and contributions of Black Americans throughout history. In March we recognize Women’s History Month, acknowledging the pivotal role of women in shaping our society. Throughout the year, we take time to celebrate mothers, fathers, military veterans, educators, grandparents and others who have made an impact on of our lives, and continue to.
These moments of recognition remind us of something fundamental: Every person, the members of every ethnic and demographic group, and those of every faith deserve R-E-S-P-E-C-T, as the great Aretha Franklin sang. Yet in today’s world, respect often seems to be in short supply. This reality is magnified by the noise blasting from social media, the nonstop discourse on television and radio masquerading as news, and the constant barrage of opinions that seek to divide rather than unite.
We can, and should, engage in constructive discussions on pressing issues such as climate change, education, housing, economic opportunity and social justice without resorting to dehumanization. It is possible to stand firm in our
To the Editor:
Re Jerry Kremer’s op-ed in the Feb. 6-12 issue, “Cleaning the 2024 slate is comforting”: While we don’t share the same political philosophy, I respect Mr. Kremer’s career and his accomplishments. He was known in Albany as a fellow who actually did the people’s business.
His piece had a regular-guy ring to it. His protestations were mine, as were the laments. I no longer go to Yankee Stadium. I do get to Citi Field for a game or two, but the Mets are moving into the high-priced arena as well. I’ll still go, but I do mourn the old days.
Supermarkets are on my canceled list. I have throwback moments at Costco now.
Jerry’s recollection of the movies took me back to a story my father told me when I was a kid. The son of Sicilian immigrants who didn’t have much, he told me that one day, as a 14-year-old, he found a quarter on the street. With that quarter he got a trolley ride, a hero sandwich and a triple feature. It was 1934, and a quarter got you somewhere in Brooklyn.
Jerry did skip over my major annoyance, property taxes. Last October, the Herald printed my op-ed, “Nassau is no county for old
beliefs while recognizing the humanity of those who see the world differently. Diversity of thought is essential to a thriving society. Healthy debate strengthens our communities, fosters new ideas and leads to meaningful progress. But progress is only possible when conversations are grounded in mutual respect.
As we address the challenges facing our nation, we must acknowledge that the path forward is not always clear. Intelligent, clear-thinking people will advocate different solutions based on their experiences and beliefs. That is to be expected. But what should never change is our commitment to engaging with one another as individuals deserving of respect, regardless of our differences.
It isn’t enough to simply argue about policies or demand that others see the world exactly as we do. True progress requires dialogue. It requires the humility to recognize that none of us has all the answers, and we must be open-minded enough to find solutions together, even when our collective problems seem impossibly difficult.
We must also reject the idea that disagreement makes those who disagree
into enemies. Too often, political and social divisions are deepened by rhetoric that seeks to demonize rather than understand. But a just and equitable society cannot be built on division. Rather, it requires the recognition that, despite our differences, we are all part of the same human family.
In the year ahead, let’s recommit to fostering a culture in which mutual respect is not an afterthought, but instead a guiding principle. Let’s teach our children — not just with words, but also with actions — that disagreement is not a reason to hate, but an opportunity to learn. Let’s model the kind of civil discourse that allows communities to grow stronger rather than splinter apart.
Black History Month, Women’s History Month and all the other days on which we honor those who have shaped our communities serve as indelible reminders of the R-E-S-P-E-C-T everyone deserves, every day. Despite the challenges we face, a just, equitable society remains within our reach — one in which opportunity isn’t determined by race or Zip code, where debate isn’t defined by hostility, and where respect is a cornerstone of its foundation.
men.” I’ll be 80 this summer, and my property taxes, which I’ve been paying for 47 years, are now north of $30,000. I hope that in his editorial role, Jerry can advocate
for seniors who want to stay in their homes.
new York in 2022 told school districts they would be barred from purchasing gasoline- or diesel-powered buses after 2027, and instead would have to buy electric buses at more than double the cost. “The purchase of new electric buses will help grow the market,” officials later pledged, “which will in turn help reduce prices.”
Unfortunately for taxpayers, those reductions aren’t materializing — in part because state officials put the prices, and future increases, on cruise control.
The state Office of General Services, which negotiates contracts on which local districts are expected to piggyback, reached a five-year deal in December 2022 with nine bus dealers, and tied the price schedule to the federal Producer Price Index for “truck and bus bodies.” That’s notable on its own because the index doesn’t reflect changes in battery or electric motor costs — the components that make electric buses so costly.
New York’s arrangement left school bus prices rising automatically. A handful of bus models were added to the
price schedule in the first year after getting state Department of Transportation approvals, but nothing has changed since — except for the price hikes, which totaled 3.7 percent over the past 12 months. Inflation-related provisions are common in government procurement, especially in multi-year deals. But it’s remarkable that the state hasn’t been able to woo more players into the market or work out lower prices.
sLooking specifically at the OGS prices for the ubiquitous Type C buses (which make up two-thirds of school buses statewide), five manufacturers with electric models are listed. That’s more than the three listed for gasoline or diesel buses, and should have set the stage for greater competition and downward pressure on prices. What’s more, OGS reserved the right to negotiate lower prices or rebid the contracts altogether “in the event of a decrease in market price.”
the added cost of buying electric buses instead of replacing them — is on track to total more than $9 billion by 2035, when state law requires districts to park the last of the fuel-burning units.
And it’s become increasingly clear that the total cost of compliance will be far larger.
tate officials, in classic Albany form, never issued any cost estimate.
sel buses long after 2027.
So far, the agency hasn’t, and the price gap between gasoline/diesel and electric units is widening. In January 2024, the lowest price for a 46-seat Type C bus was $134,353, compared with $388,265 for electric, a difference of $253,912. This year, the premium is up to $263,360. That premium alone — that is,
To the Editor:
Re Randi Kreiss’s recent column, “When was the last time your read a book?”: I was happy to be informed about Randi’s impressions of the reading habits of children and young adults. This is a subject that I have a firsthand knowledge of.
Over the past 10 to 15 years, I have observed a tendency among my paying customers, most of whom are, in fact, 16 to 30 years old. Most come to me to fill a gap in their knowledge of classics, science fiction, general fiction, mystery and other literary genres. It seems that high schools and colleges assign them books that are online, but those who come to me seem to prefer hard copies. For me the trend is notable and rewarding, and boosts my hope that reading physical books, particularly classics, has not lost its luster in our over-technological, disgustingly over-computerized society.
AMNON TISHLER
Booklovers Paradise Bellmore
To the Editor:
I am alarmed at the lack of alarm in Nassau County in response to County Executive Bruce Blakeman’s outrageous behavior.
First he organized an independent local armed security force, and denied it was a “militia.” It actually fits the dictionary definition of a militia, which means Blakeman is either uninformed or disingenuous — or both.
Then he declared that the New York Post, a tabloid owned by Rupert Murdoch, is the official publication of Nassau County, because Blakeman doesn’t like the leanings of Newsday, which, for better or worse, has been a Long Islandcentric publication for decades.
Both moves are autocratic and partisan, and both are indefensible — but the public outcry has been muted, at best. I believe we need to react to — and reject — this sort of overreach, which I do not believe represent either the feelings or the interests of many Nassau County residents.
RICHARD SCHWARz Bayville
Despite the fact that it’s the largest unfunded mandate in a generation, state officials, in classic Albany form, never issued any cost estimate for the electric bus policy before approving it as part of the 2023 state budget.
Last October, the State Education Department found that at least 42 percent of districts “will need some electric service update or upgrade to meet their bus charging needs,” while just 3 percent said they won’t. Another 39 percent haven’t yet made an assessment.
State officials still haven’t estimated the total added grid-related costs, but some districts face costs in the tens of millions of dollars as they contemplate necessary substation upgrades and additional or upgraded distribution lines, or potentially relocating their bus depots. And since distribution-level upgrades must be planned (and approved by the state utility regulator) years in advance, school districts will likely need to keep buying gas and die-
Districts face other major sources of uncertainty. Instead of gasoline or diesel, they will buy more electricity, the cost of which is poised to rise as the state prematurely shutters natural gasfired power plants. The administration of Gov. Kathy Hochul has indicated that the per-mile costs of electricity will be lower than fuel, but has otherwise been mum on the subject.
Most school districts will use bonds to pay for their bus upgrades, and financing costs have surged since the electric bus mandate was adopted. Schools are counting on state and federal incentives to defray their costs. These include one-time proceeds from the 2022 Environmental Bond Act, as well as various federal incentives sure to come under scrutiny as the feds grapple with ballooning debt costs and the potential expiration of parts of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.
In this last case, Hochul and state lawmakers are likely to blame congressional Republicans and the Trump administration for forcing them to postpone the electric bus mandate. But it’s difficult for Albany to blame Washington for a policy’s cost and feasibility problems when Albany didn’t first determine the policy’s cost or feasibility.
Ken Girardin is director of research at the Empire Center for Public Policy. He can be reached at ken@empirecenter.org.
